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We have been witnessing a lot of drama post Karnataka assembly elections outcome. BJP had emerged as the single largest party in the elections with 104 seats, however, the rival Congress - with 78 seats in the kitty, acted promptly and allied with JD(S), which had secured 37 seats.

Furthermore, the Congress announced JD(S) chief HD Kumaraswamy as coalition's chief ministerial candidate - an offer JD(S) could not have said no to.

Subsquently, the coalition won the trust vote in the state assembly. BS Yeddyurappa, who initially took oath as the chief minister, conceded defeat with an emotional speech and resigned from his post.&nbsp;

Soon after Kumaraswamy took oath as the chief minister and the coalition government came into existence, BJP had predicted a fallout between the two parties. "We will not try to indulge in any attempt to destabilise the coalition government. They will fight and fall on their own. There is no need for us to do anything,” Yeddyurappa had said.&nbsp;

Last week, Kumaraswamy broke down during a public event&nbsp;and said he was not happy being in the top post. His public outburst was taken as an indication of a growing rift within the coalition.&nbsp; 
 
This was not the first time when Kumaraswamy expressed his displeasure as the chief minister. Earlier in May, the coalition head had said that he was at mercy of the Congress,&nbsp;because JD(S) did not get an absolute majority.&nbsp;

His statements, that too public ones, are a clear indicator of the fact that Kumaraswamy was never content with forming a coalition government. The chief minister knew that he had certain compulsions and before taking any decision he would have to seek the consent of Congress.

Meanwhile, JD(S) has refuted the reports of any strain between the two coalition partners, saying Kumaraswamy's reaction was just an emotional outburst. Congress, which seems to be frustrated and stressed, is blaming the Bharatiya Janata Party of playing dirty politics.

However, it’s noteworthy that Kumaraswamy has not come up with any clarification or official statement as yet.

Going forward

The first signs of trouble in paradise reared its head when there was a tussle between the two parties over distribution of portfolios. After that - when Kumaraswamy presented his first budget on July 5 and proposed tax hike on petrol and diesel.

This did not go down well with the congress and some party leaders wrote to the chief minister, asking him to withdraw the proposal. The Congress also claimed that budget had nothing stored for the northern parts of state.

It was a godsend for both Congress and JD(S) that they could form government in Karnataka, despite BJP emerging as the single largest party. They came together keeping aside their differences.

As political analysts suggest, Kumaraswamy should remain strong and avoid public breakdowns, because this gives wrong signal about its coalition partner.

Moreover, Kumaraswamy, who is committed to fulfill his poll promise of waiving of all the debts of state farmers, should have consulted Congress before announcing a loan waiver of Rs 44, 700 (initially Rs 34, 000 loan waiver, followed by an additional crop loan waiver of Rs 10,700 from cooperative banks).

Experts say waiving off such a huge amount could harm the fiscal management of the state.

Congress too should understand that criticising the chief minister in public will only give the opposition a reason to attack the coalition government. Congress leaders should support and respect Kumaraswamy as the coalition head if they want this government to run successfully. In particular, former chief minister Siddaramaiah need to shun his alleged dictatorial attitude.

If Congress and JD(S) want this coalition to complete the 5-year term, then they should stop washing dirty linen in public.&nbsp;There is, therefore, an urgent need for both the parties to sit and sort out their differences and establish a strong partnership.

 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

The first signs of trouble in paradise reared its head when there was a tussle between the two parties over distribution of portfolios. After that - when Kumaraswamy presented his first budget on July 5 and proposed tax hike on petrol and diesel.

We have been witnessing a lot of drama post Karnataka assembly elections outcome. BJP had emerged as the single largest party in the elections with 104 seats, however, the rival Congress - with 78 seats in the kitty, acted promptly and allied with JD(S), which had secured 37 seats. Furthermore, the Congress announced JD(S) chief HD Kumaraswamy as coalition's chief ministerial candidate - an offer JD(S) could not have said no to. Subsquently, the coalition won the trust vote in the state assembly. BS Yeddyurappa, who initially took oath as the chief minister, conceded defeat with an emotional speech and resigned from his post. Soon after Kumaraswamy took oath as the chief minister and the coalition government came into existence, BJP had predicted a fallout between the two parties. "We will not try to indulge in any attempt to destabilise the coalition government. They will fight and fall on their own. There is no need for us to do anything,” Yeddyurappa had said. Last week, Kumaraswamy broke down during a public event and said he was not happy being in the top post. His public outburst was taken as an indication of a growing rift within the coalition. This was not the first time when Kumaraswamy expressed his displeasure as the chief minister. Earlier in May, the coalition head had said that he was at mercy of the Congress, because JD(S) did not get an absolute majority. His statements, that too public ones, are a clear indicator of the fact that Kumaraswamy was never content with forming a coalition government. The chief minister knew that he had certain compulsions and before taking any decision he would have to seek the consent of Congress. Meanwhile, JD(S) has refuted the reports of any strain between the two coalition partners, saying Kumaraswamy's reaction was just an emotional outburst. Congress, which seems to be frustrated and stressed, is blaming the Bharatiya Janata Party of playing dirty politics. However, it’s noteworthy that Kumaraswamy has not come up with any clarification or official statement as yet. Going forward The first signs of trouble in paradise reared its head when there was a tussle between the two parties over distribution of portfolios. After that - when Kumaraswamy presented his first budget on July 5 and proposed tax hike on petrol and diesel. This did not go down well with the congress and some party leaders wrote to the chief minister, asking him to withdraw the proposal. The Congress also claimed that budget had nothing stored for the northern parts of state. It was a godsend for both Congress and JD(S) that they could form government in Karnataka, despite BJP emerging as the single largest party. They came together keeping aside their differences. As political analysts suggest, Kumaraswamy should remain strong and avoid public breakdowns, because this gives wrong signal about its coalition partner. Moreover, Kumaraswamy, who is committed to fulfill his poll promise of waiving of all the debts of state farmers, should have consulted Congress before announcing a loan waiver of Rs 44, 700 (initially Rs 34, 000 loan waiver, followed by an additional crop loan waiver of Rs 10,700 from cooperative banks). Experts say waiving off such a huge amount could harm the fiscal management of the state. Congress too should understand that criticising the chief minister in public will only give the opposition a reason to attack the coalition government. Congress leaders should support and respect Kumaraswamy as the coalition head if they want this government to run successfully. In particular, former chief minister Siddaramaiah need to shun his alleged dictatorial attitude. If Congress and JD(S) want this coalition to complete the 5-year term, then they should stop washing dirty linen in public. There is, therefore, an urgent need for both the parties to sit and sort out their differences and establish a strong partnership. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Bumps along the way - it’s high time Congress and JD(S) iron out differences

By&nbsp;Kamalika Sen, Zee News Network

Coochbihar in North Bengal is a strategically important place for India. It is the gateway of Assam, Bhutan, Bangladesh. It has a&nbsp;550km border with Bangladesh out of which about 200 km has no fencing.

Changrabandha here is said to be one of the important integrated check posts through which over a lakh people travel to and fro to Bangladesh and more than 100 trucks ploy to Bangladesh every day.&nbsp;

Time and again, the Central Government has pointed out that Bengal has become a transit route for terrorists. Therefore, we planned to check the infrastructure and security measures of the northernmost important border, Changrabandha.

Changrabandha is two hours away from Siliguri. The Changrabandha station is the last station of India.

As we reached Changrabandha, we saw two tin-roofed huts standing desolate on the border. Inside the larger one, Bangladeshis were jostling one another to make to the immigration officer’s table. 
&nbsp; 
Indian passport holders had to report to two immigration officials, sitting outside the second hut with a swarm of unlicensed money changers for company. 
&nbsp; 
In the absence of x-ray machines, the officer goes through every piece of the luggage, leaving you to repack them with various hues of middlemen and curious onlookers gawking. 
&nbsp; 
"Poor infrastructure has totally chocked the post here. Even now, people have to stand under trees with the passports and visas to carry out formalities. People have repeatedly expressed anguish at the Centre for not developing the infrastructure here, it has now become the terror corridor. State Government, several times, have written to them, but the centre has done nothing," says North Bengal's development minister, Rabin Deb. 
&nbsp; 
Choton Das, a resident of this place, came and expressed their concern to us, they feel threatened to stay here, "You see there is no x-ray machine here, look at the condition of the immigration office... is it possible to check the trucks manually? Trucks go from here and we know a lot of illegal stuff too. Gold is smuggled from this place, we hear people going and coming at late night," he stated.&nbsp;

BSF is there but in comparison to the Petropole border, which is located in Bonga, less number of people are deployed here. BSF sources state there is no gate in this check post and less number of people deployed here is a huge problem.

Moreover, we met Riyaz Mia who came crossing the border from Bangladesh. Riyaz is a frequent visitor of India and shares that there is no place to sit this side and if medical patients come to India, there is no interim place where the patients can take rest.

Custom department officials state that their department is very much concerned about this region. They have sent a detailed report to the central government seeking infrastructural development.&nbsp;

This land port handles more than half, the nearly $6.5-billion, of the Indo-Bangla trade and a similar proportion of the 15 lakh people transiting between the two nations. But, this type of poor infrastructure is a cause of concern.

The Land Ports Authority under the Union Home Ministry decided to upgrade the Changrabandha Land Customs Station to a modern Integrated Check Post (ICP) in 2012 at an estimated cost of ₹64 crore. 
&nbsp; 
The West Bengal government has also has made the Changrabandha Development Board, but the officials say it is not their arena to upgrade the infrastructure in this check post and they are waiting for the central government to act on the same.

Standing here in Changrabandha, one question that comes up is why the government, the agencies are not acting to the situation here. Blame games continue between the centre and the state about the illegal Bangladeshi migrants and terror route, still why no action? We hope things will change.

Blame games continue between the centre and the state about the illegal Bangladeshi migrants and terror route, still why no action?

By Kamalika Sen, Zee News Network Coochbihar in North Bengal is a strategically important place for India. It is the gateway of Assam, Bhutan, Bangladesh. It has a 550km border with Bangladesh out of which about 200 km has no fencing. Changrabandha here is said to be one of the important integrated check posts through which over a lakh people travel to and fro to Bangladesh and more than 100 trucks ploy to Bangladesh every day. Time and again, the Central Government has pointed out that Bengal has become a transit route for terrorists. Therefore, we planned to check the infrastructure and security measures of the northernmost important border, Changrabandha. Changrabandha is two hours away from Siliguri. The Changrabandha station is the last station of India. As we reached Changrabandha, we saw two tin-roofed huts standing desolate on the border. Inside the larger one, Bangladeshis were jostling one another to make to the immigration officer’s table. Indian passport holders had to report to two immigration officials, sitting outside the second hut with a swarm of unlicensed money changers for company. In the absence of x-ray machines, the officer goes through every piece of the luggage, leaving you to repack them with various hues of middlemen and curious onlookers gawking. "Poor infrastructure has totally chocked the post here. Even now, people have to stand under trees with the passports and visas to carry out formalities. People have repeatedly expressed anguish at the Centre for not developing the infrastructure here, it has now become the terror corridor. State Government, several times, have written to them, but the centre has done nothing," says North Bengal's development minister, Rabin Deb. Choton Das, a resident of this place, came and expressed their concern to us, they feel threatened to stay here, "You see there is no x-ray machine here, look at the condition of the immigration office... is it possible to check the trucks manually? Trucks go from here and we know a lot of illegal stuff too. Gold is smuggled from this place, we hear people going and coming at late night," he stated. BSF is there but in comparison to the Petropole border, which is located in Bonga, less number of people are deployed here. BSF sources state there is no gate in this check post and less number of people deployed here is a huge problem. Moreover, we met Riyaz Mia who came crossing the border from Bangladesh. Riyaz is a frequent visitor of India and shares that there is no place to sit this side and if medical patients come to India, there is no interim place where the patients can take rest. Custom department officials state that their department is very much concerned about this region. They have sent a detailed report to the central government seeking infrastructural development. This land port handles more than half, the nearly $6.5-billion, of the Indo-Bangla trade and a similar proportion of the 15 lakh people transiting between the two nations. But, this type of poor infrastructure is a cause of concern. The Land Ports Authority under the Union Home Ministry decided to upgrade the Changrabandha Land Customs Station to a modern Integrated Check Post (ICP) in 2012 at an estimated cost of ₹64 crore. The West Bengal government has also has made the Changrabandha Development Board, but the officials say it is not their arena to upgrade the infrastructure in this check post and they are waiting for the central government to act on the same. Standing here in Changrabandha, one question that comes up is why the government, the agencies are not acting to the situation here. Blame games continue between the centre and the state about the illegal Bangladeshi migrants and terror route, still why no action? We hope things will change.

Ground report: On Indo-Bangladesh border, Changrabandha is both trade and terror spot

All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Monday asked the BJP and the Congress the message it was sending out to the Muslims in the country.&nbsp;

Owaisi asked if the usage of "Muslim word will lead to polarisation"?

"The most unfortunate thing that has come out of recent controversy of Muslims not being part of this party or that party, statements of Cong president and PM Modi. What is the message you're sending to Muslims, that the usage of the Muslim word will lead to polarisation, it's a dirty word?" Owaisi stated.&nbsp;

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The most unfortunate thing that has come out of recent controversy of Muslims not being part of this party or that party, statements of Cong pres & PM, what is the message you're sending to Muslims, that usage of Muslim word will lead to polarisation, it's a dirty word?: A Owaisi <a href="https://t.co/Oz8HCZFZEJ">pic.twitter.com/Oz8HCZFZEJ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1019127729286008832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He further asked how many recruitments from the minority communities took place in the last four years.&nbsp;

"In the last four years, whether Railways, Paramilitary Forces, how many recruitments of minorities took place? In PM's 15 point programme, it's said in point 10 that recruitment to state and central services or police, the government will be advised to give special consideration to minorities," Owaisi added. &nbsp;

A group of Muslim intellectuals had recently met with Gandhi, after which an Urdu newspaper — Inquilaab — quoted Gandhi as having told them the "Congress is a Muslim party".&nbsp;

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In last 4 yrs, whether Railways, Paramilitary Forces, how many recruitments of minorities took place? In PM's 15 point programme, it's said in point 10 that recruitment to state¢ral services or police, govt will be advised to give special consideration to minorities: A Owaisi <a href="https://t.co/696kemJGFH">pic.twitter.com/696kemJGFH</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1019126762746400768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The BJP was quick to pick on the report with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman launching attacks on Gandhi. "I read in the newspapers that naamdaar (entitled) said the Congress is a party of the Muslims. I am not surprised... When the previous prime minister was in charge, he said openly that the first use of natural resources should be with Muslims," Modi said in UP's Azamgarh.

"You can't be janeu-dhari (Hindu who wears the sacred thread) at one point... Muslim-dhari at another... This is playing with the people's trust," Sitharaman said at a press conference in Delhi.&nbsp;

In his <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/religion-caste-matter-little-to-me-rahul-gandhi-amidst-congress-is-muslim-party-row-152352">reaction to the row</a>, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday tweeted out saying, "I stand with the last person in the line. The exploited, marginalised and the persecuted. Their religion, caste or beliefs matter little to me."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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I stand with the last person in the line. The exploited, marginalised and the persecuted. Their religion, caste or beliefs matter little to me. 
 
I seek out those in pain and embrace them. I erase hatred and fear. 
 
I love all living beings. 
 
I am the Congress.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1019116350474776577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He added, "I seek out those in pain and embrace them. I erase hatred and fear. I love all living beings. I am the Congress."&nbsp;

The comments are being seen as a riposted to the "Congress is a Muslim party" allegation against Gandhi.&nbsp;

He further asked how many recruitments from the minority communities took place in the last four years.

All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Monday asked the BJP and the Congress the message it was sending out to the Muslims in the country. Owaisi asked if the usage of "Muslim word will lead to polarisation"? "The most unfortunate thing that has come out of recent controversy of Muslims not being part of this party or that party, statements of Cong president and PM Modi. What is the message you're sending to Muslims, that the usage of the Muslim word will lead to polarisation, it's a dirty word?" Owaisi stated. The most unfortunate thing that has come out of recent controversy of Muslims not being part of this party or that party, statements of Cong pres & PM, what is the message you're sending to Muslims, that usage of Muslim word will lead to polarisation, it's a dirty word?: A Owaisi pic.twitter.com/Oz8HCZFZEJ — ANI (@ANI) July 17, 2018 × He further asked how many recruitments from the minority communities took place in the last four years. "In the last four years, whether Railways, Paramilitary Forces, how many recruitments of minorities took place? In PM's 15 point programme, it's said in point 10 that recruitment to state and central services or police, the government will be advised to give special consideration to minorities," Owaisi added. A group of Muslim intellectuals had recently met with Gandhi, after which an Urdu newspaper — Inquilaab — quoted Gandhi as having told them the "Congress is a Muslim party". In last 4 yrs, whether Railways, Paramilitary Forces, how many recruitments of minorities took place? In PM's 15 point programme, it's said in point 10 that recruitment to state¢ral services or police, govt will be advised to give special consideration to minorities: A Owaisi pic.twitter.com/696kemJGFH — ANI (@ANI) July 17, 2018 × The BJP was quick to pick on the report with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman launching attacks on Gandhi. "I read in the newspapers that naamdaar (entitled) said the Congress is a party of the Muslims. I am not surprised... When the previous prime minister was in charge, he said openly that the first use of natural resources should be with Muslims," Modi said in UP's Azamgarh. "You can't be janeu-dhari (Hindu who wears the sacred thread) at one point... Muslim-dhari at another... This is playing with the people's trust," Sitharaman said at a press conference in Delhi. In his reaction to the row, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday tweeted out saying, "I stand with the last person in the line. The exploited, marginalised and the persecuted. Their religion, caste or beliefs matter little to me." I stand with the last person in the line. The exploited, marginalised and the persecuted. Their religion, caste or beliefs matter little to me. I seek out those in pain and embrace them. I erase hatred and fear. I love all living beings. I am the Congress. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 17, 2018 × He added, "I seek out those in pain and embrace them. I erase hatred and fear. I love all living beings. I am the Congress." The comments are being seen as a riposted to the "Congress is a Muslim party" allegation against Gandhi.

Asaduddin Owaisi to BJP, Congress: What message are you sending to Muslims?

Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Maneka Gandhi, has instructed all states to inspect child care homes run by Missionaries of Charity.&nbsp;

The move followed recent reports of illegal adoptions carried out by Missionaries of Charity in Jharkhand.&nbsp;

A nun and some employees of an organisation in Ranchi, run by Missionaries of Charity, were arrested by the Jharkhand Police on July 5 for allegedly selling a baby for over a lakh rupees.&nbsp;

On July 5, the Jharkhand Police had arrested a nun and an employee on charges of selling a baby allegedly for Rs 1.2 lakh.

According to the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, registration of CCIs and their linking with the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) is mandatory, but some orphanages have challenged the validity of the clause, an official in the Women and Child Development Ministry said.

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Taking cognizance of the recent cases of illegal adoptions carried out by Missionaries of Charity in Jharkhand, Min of Women&Child Development,Maneka Gandhi has instructed the states to get child care homes run by Missionaries of Charity all over the country inspected immediately <a href="https://t.co/FwkWHBePJ4">pic.twitter.com/FwkWHBePJ4</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1019053427782029312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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According to news agency ANI, Maneka Gandhi ordered state governments to register all child care institutions (CCI) and link them to the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) within a month's time.<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C6E_6UL7lOk" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Gandhi has expressed displeasure over the fact that the children in the 2,300 institutions linked to CARA are yet to be brought under an adoption system. According to the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), 2,32,937 children are currently under the care of CCIs -- both registered and unregistered -- in the country.&nbsp;

The order comes after reports of illegal adoptions carried out by the Missionaries of Charity in Jharkhand.

Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Maneka Gandhi, has instructed all states to inspect child care homes run by Missionaries of Charity. The move followed recent reports of illegal adoptions carried out by Missionaries of Charity in Jharkhand. A nun and some employees of an organisation in Ranchi, run by Missionaries of Charity, were arrested by the Jharkhand Police on July 5 for allegedly selling a baby for over a lakh rupees. On July 5, the Jharkhand Police had arrested a nun and an employee on charges of selling a baby allegedly for Rs 1.2 lakh. According to the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, registration of CCIs and their linking with the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) is mandatory, but some orphanages have challenged the validity of the clause, an official in the Women and Child Development Ministry said. Taking cognizance of the recent cases of illegal adoptions carried out by Missionaries of Charity in Jharkhand, Min of Women&Child Development,Maneka Gandhi has instructed the states to get child care homes run by Missionaries of Charity all over the country inspected immediately pic.twitter.com/FwkWHBePJ4 — ANI (@ANI) July 17, 2018 × According to news agency ANI, Maneka Gandhi ordered state governments to register all child care institutions (CCI) and link them to the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) within a month's time. Gandhi has expressed displeasure over the fact that the children in the 2,300 institutions linked to CARA are yet to be brought under an adoption system. According to the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), 2,32,937 children are currently under the care of CCIs -- both registered and unregistered -- in the country.

All child care homes run by Missionaries of Charity to be inspected: Maneka Gandhi

"I stand with the last person in the line," Congress President Rahul Gandhi tweeted on Tuesday. "The exploited, marginalised and the persecuted. Their religion, caste or beliefs matter little to me."&nbsp;

He added, "I seek out those in pain and embrace them. I erase hatred and fear. I love all living beings. I am the Congress."&nbsp;

The comments are being seen as a riposted to the "Congress is a Muslim party" allegation against Gandhi.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I stand with the last person in the line. The exploited, marginalised and the persecuted. Their religion, caste or beliefs matter little to me. 
 
I seek out those in pain and embrace them. I erase hatred and fear. 
 
I love all living beings. 
 
I am the Congress.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1019116350474776577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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A group of Muslim intellectuals had recently met with Gandhi, after which an Urdu newspaper — Inquilaab — quoted Gandhi as having told them the "Congress is a Muslim party".&nbsp;

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rs-prasad-questions-rahuls-silence-over-muslim-party-remark-151971">BJP</a> was quick to pick on the report with Prime Minster Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman launching attacks on Gandhi. "I read in the newspapers that naamdaar (entitled) said the Congress is a party of the Muslims. I am not surprised... When the previous prime minister was in charge, he said openly that the first use of natural resources should be with Muslims," Modi said in UP's Azamgarh.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/muslim-party-row-rahul-has-exposed-congress-real-face-says-javadekar-152141">Rahul has exposed Congress' real face, says Javadekar</a>

"You can't be janeu-dhari (Hindu who wears the sacred thread) at one point... Muslim-dhari at another... This is playing with the people's trust," Sitharaman said at a press conference in Delhi.&nbsp;

Sitharaman added that Gandhi was dividing the country along religious lines, and that the Congress would be responsible for any communal disturbances that might break out in the run up to the 2019 elections.&nbsp;

Most of the Muslim intellectuals have since said Gandhi never made the "Congress is a Muslim party" comment.&nbsp;

The Inquilaab reporter however has stood by his report. News reports quoted him as saying what Gandhi had said had been nuanced.

And that Rahul had not said "Congress is a Muslim party" but that "Congress is a party of Muslims".&nbsp;

A group of Muslim intellectuals had recently met with Gandhi, after which an Urdu newspaper quoted Gandhi as having told them the 'Congress is a Muslim party'. The BJP was quick to latch on to the purported remark

"I stand with the last person in the line," Congress President Rahul Gandhi tweeted on Tuesday. "The exploited, marginalised and the persecuted. Their religion, caste or beliefs matter little to me." He added, "I seek out those in pain and embrace them. I erase hatred and fear. I love all living beings. I am the Congress." The comments are being seen as a riposted to the "Congress is a Muslim party" allegation against Gandhi. I stand with the last person in the line. The exploited, marginalised and the persecuted. Their religion, caste or beliefs matter little to me. I seek out those in pain and embrace them. I erase hatred and fear. I love all living beings. I am the Congress. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 17, 2018 × A group of Muslim intellectuals had recently met with Gandhi, after which an Urdu newspaper — Inquilaab — quoted Gandhi as having told them the "Congress is a Muslim party". The BJP was quick to pick on the report with Prime Minster Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman launching attacks on Gandhi. "I read in the newspapers that naamdaar (entitled) said the Congress is a party of the Muslims. I am not surprised... When the previous prime minister was in charge, he said openly that the first use of natural resources should be with Muslims," Modi said in UP's Azamgarh. Also read: Rahul has exposed Congress' real face, says Javadekar "You can't be janeu-dhari (Hindu who wears the sacred thread) at one point... Muslim-dhari at another... This is playing with the people's trust," Sitharaman said at a press conference in Delhi. Sitharaman added that Gandhi was dividing the country along religious lines, and that the Congress would be responsible for any communal disturbances that might break out in the run up to the 2019 elections. Most of the Muslim intellectuals have since said Gandhi never made the "Congress is a Muslim party" comment. The Inquilaab reporter however has stood by his report. News reports quoted him as saying what Gandhi had said had been nuanced. And that Rahul had not said "Congress is a Muslim party" but that "Congress is a party of Muslims".

Religion, caste matter little to me: Rahul Gandhi amid 'Congress is Muslim party' row

National highways authority of India has planned to build a road through the Bannerghatta National Park. This project will affect 104 Square kilometers area of the biodiversity hot spot.

Bengaluru: Government mulls road through national park

The Aam Aadmi Party has announced its chief ministerial candidate for Madhya Pradesh ahead of the assembly polls. Alok Agrawal was named the chief ministerial candidate by party convener Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday.

"Agrawal is going to be the party's chief ministerial candidate," Kejriwal said at a party meeting.

"We can teach the Madhya Pradesh chief minister how to improve the functioning of government schools. I am ready to send Delhi education minister Manish Sisodia to MP for some time," Kejriwal targetted Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

Kejriwal also talked about the condition of government schools in Madhya Pradesh and described it as worrisome. Kejriwal also stated that people in Madhya Pradesh are paying three times for electricity as compared to Delhi.

Alok Agarwal, who is also the party state convener, released the party's election manifesto. Printed on a Rs 100 stamp paper, the manifesto contained 30 agendas for the state with a promise&nbsp;to include Rs 1,500 to 3,000 monthly assistance for unemployed youths and a full farm loan waiver.

51-year-old Agrawal is an IIT Kanpur alumnus. He was earlier associated with the Narmada Bachao Andolan. The AAP does not have any MLA in Madhya Pradesh. The state will go to polls by the end of this year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

51-year-old Agrawal is an IIT Kanpur alumnus. He was earlier associated with the Narmada Bachao Andolan.

The Aam Aadmi Party has announced its chief ministerial candidate for Madhya Pradesh ahead of the assembly polls. Alok Agrawal was named the chief ministerial candidate by party convener Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday. "Agrawal is going to be the party's chief ministerial candidate," Kejriwal said at a party meeting. "We can teach the Madhya Pradesh chief minister how to improve the functioning of government schools. I am ready to send Delhi education minister Manish Sisodia to MP for some time," Kejriwal targetted Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. Kejriwal also talked about the condition of government schools in Madhya Pradesh and described it as worrisome. Kejriwal also stated that people in Madhya Pradesh are paying three times for electricity as compared to Delhi. Alok Agarwal, who is also the party state convener, released the party's election manifesto. Printed on a Rs 100 stamp paper, the manifesto contained 30 agendas for the state with a promise to include Rs 1,500 to 3,000 monthly assistance for unemployed youths and a full farm loan waiver. 51-year-old Agrawal is an IIT Kanpur alumnus. He was earlier associated with the Narmada Bachao Andolan. The AAP does not have any MLA in Madhya Pradesh. The state will go to polls by the end of this year. (With inputs from PTI)

Madhya Pradesh polls: AAP announces Alok Agrawal as CM candidate

Workers of Swabhimani Shetkari Sangathna, a farmers' organisation, stopped milk supplying vehicles near Pune on Monday morning and prevented milk from being supplied to nearby cities.&nbsp

The organisation is demanding price hike for milk farmers.

''The government says that milk would be brought from other states, especially Gujarat and Karnataka. We'll start a 'Satyagraha' and ensure that no milk is brought to from outside. It's the tactic of the government to disrupt protest,'' said R Shetti, Swabhimani Shetkari Sangathna leader and MP.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a>: Workers of Swabhimani Shetkari Sangathna, a farmers' organisation, stopped vehicles near Pune early morning today, and prevented milk from being supplied to nearby cities. The organisation is demanding price hike for milk farmers. <a href="https://t.co/z2a1D6YwMX">pic.twitter.com/z2a1D6YwMX</a>
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Regarding yesterday's Nagpur incident, he said ''Onus of Nagpur incident falls on state government and the police. Protests were to begin at 12 am today but police started detaining workers from yesterday morning. The police also went to farmers' houses and verbally abused women. They reacted. We want to protest peacefully,'' Shetti added.

Even though the strike was scheduled to begin from July 16, matters went out of hand on Sunday after a Nagpur-bound milk tanker was stoned in Amravati district. Ravikant Tupkar, state president of SSS, said, “No milk tanker will be allowed to enter Maharashtra. If someone tries to enter the state under police cover, our activists will create a law and order situation.”

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Govt says that milk would be brought from other states, especially Gujarat & Karnataka. We'll start a 'Satyagraha' & ensure that no milk is brought to from outside. It's the tactic of the govt to disrupt protest by doing this: R Shetti, Swabhimani Shetkari Sangathna leader & MP <a href="https://t.co/dcEf0hB349">pic.twitter.com/dcEf0hB349</a>
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&nbsp

Even though the strike was scheduled to begin from July 16, matters went out of hand on Sunday after a Nagpur-bound milk tanker was stoned in Amravati district.

Workers of Swabhimani Shetkari Sangathna, a farmers' organisation, stopped milk supplying vehicles near Pune on Monday morning and prevented milk from being supplied to nearby cities. The organisation is demanding price hike for milk farmers. ''The government says that milk would be brought from other states, especially Gujarat and Karnataka. We'll start a 'Satyagraha' and ensure that no milk is brought to from outside. It's the tactic of the government to disrupt protest,'' said R Shetti, Swabhimani Shetkari Sangathna leader and MP. #Maharashtra: Workers of Swabhimani Shetkari Sangathna, a farmers' organisation, stopped vehicles near Pune early morning today, and prevented milk from being supplied to nearby cities. The organisation is demanding price hike for milk farmers. pic.twitter.com/z2a1D6YwMX — ANI (@ANI) July 16, 2018 × Regarding yesterday's Nagpur incident, he said ''Onus of Nagpur incident falls on state government and the police. Protests were to begin at 12 am today but police started detaining workers from yesterday morning. The police also went to farmers' houses and verbally abused women. They reacted. We want to protest peacefully,'' Shetti added. Even though the strike was scheduled to begin from July 16, matters went out of hand on Sunday after a Nagpur-bound milk tanker was stoned in Amravati district. Ravikant Tupkar, state president of SSS, said, “No milk tanker will be allowed to enter Maharashtra. If someone tries to enter the state under police cover, our activists will create a law and order situation.” Govt says that milk would be brought from other states, especially Gujarat & Karnataka. We'll start a 'Satyagraha' & ensure that no milk is brought to from outside. It's the tactic of the govt to disrupt protest by doing this: R Shetti, Swabhimani Shetkari Sangathna leader & MP pic.twitter.com/dcEf0hB349 — ANI (@ANI) July 16, 2018 ×

Maharashtra: Milk farmers demand price hike, say will ensure no milk is brought to state from outside

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday said that for his demand for special status for Bihar, he has been receiving support from all political parties.

"We have been demanding special status for Bihar since 2006. The report of 14th Finance Commission indicated that special status is not required so we are pursuing the matter and will put it forward before the 15th Finance Commission," Nitish Kumar said while addressing a 'Lok Samvad' programme here.

"All parties in the state have supported the demand for special status for Bihar. We will keep forward our demand as we have our own logic in demanding special status," he added.

Talking about the meeting of President Ram Nath Kovind and Janata Dal (United) leader Ashok Choudhary at Rashtrapati Bhavan last week to discuss the issue, Nitish Kumar said to reports that the President reacted positively to the discussion.&nbsp;

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had put forth the demand for granting Special Status to his state on June 17.

Regarding the special status issue, Nitish claimed that this was necessary, as Bihar lagged behind on several key areas of human development like per capita income, education, health, electricity, institutional finance and others.

(With inputs from ANI)

"All parties in the state have supported the demand for special status for Bihar. We will keep forward our demand as we have our own logic in demanding special status," he said

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday said that for his demand for special status for Bihar, he has been receiving support from all political parties. "We have been demanding special status for Bihar since 2006. The report of 14th Finance Commission indicated that special status is not required so we are pursuing the matter and will put it forward before the 15th Finance Commission," Nitish Kumar said while addressing a 'Lok Samvad' programme here. "All parties in the state have supported the demand for special status for Bihar. We will keep forward our demand as we have our own logic in demanding special status," he added. Talking about the meeting of President Ram Nath Kovind and Janata Dal (United) leader Ashok Choudhary at Rashtrapati Bhavan last week to discuss the issue, Nitish Kumar said to reports that the President reacted positively to the discussion. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had put forth the demand for granting Special Status to his state on June 17. Regarding the special status issue, Nitish claimed that this was necessary, as Bihar lagged behind on several key areas of human development like per capita income, education, health, electricity, institutional finance and others. (With inputs from ANI)

All Bihar political parties in support of special status demand: Nitish Kumar

The Centre today sought a report from the West Bengal government on the collapse of a makeshift tent at the venue of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rally in Midnapore in which at least 67 people were injured.

The tent was erected next to the main entrance of the rally venue to shelter people from the rain, and the incident happened when Modi was mid-way through his speech.

"The Centre has sought a report from the West Bengal government on the tent collapse incident in Midnapore in which several people were injured," a home ministry spokesperson said.

The prime minister saw the tent collapsing during his speech and immediately instructed special protection group personnel standing near him to look after the people and attend to the injured, officials said.

P Kundu, the principal of the government-run West Midnapore Medical College and Hospital, said 67 people including 13 women were admitted after the incident but no one was seriously injured.

Modi also visited the injured at the hospital later.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said the state government would provide all medical assistance to those injured in the incident.

"We pray for the speedy recovery of all those injured at the Midnapore rally today. The government is giving all help for medical treatment," Banerjee wrote on her Twitter handle.&nbsp;

The tent was erected next to the main entrance of the rally venue to shelter people from the rain, and the incident happened when Modi was mid-way through his speech

The Centre today sought a report from the West Bengal government on the collapse of a makeshift tent at the venue of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rally in Midnapore in which at least 67 people were injured. The tent was erected next to the main entrance of the rally venue to shelter people from the rain, and the incident happened when Modi was mid-way through his speech. "The Centre has sought a report from the West Bengal government on the tent collapse incident in Midnapore in which several people were injured," a home ministry spokesperson said. The prime minister saw the tent collapsing during his speech and immediately instructed special protection group personnel standing near him to look after the people and attend to the injured, officials said. P Kundu, the principal of the government-run West Midnapore Medical College and Hospital, said 67 people including 13 women were admitted after the incident but no one was seriously injured. Modi also visited the injured at the hospital later. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said the state government would provide all medical assistance to those injured in the incident. "We pray for the speedy recovery of all those injured at the Midnapore rally today. The government is giving all help for medical treatment," Banerjee wrote on her Twitter handle.

Centre seeks report from government on tent collapse incident in PM rally

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said India is no longer considered to be among the 'Fragile Five' and is now considered as the world's fastest-growing economy.

"Gone are the days when India was considered to be among the 'Fragile Five'. Today, we are the fastest growing economy in the world. Powered by the 125 Crore people of India, we will grow even faster," he said while addressing the valedictory function at the New India Conclave here.

Stressing the importance of infrastructure, the Prime Minister said, "India needs great road infrastructure-Bharatmala is building thousands of km of roads. India needs port-led development-Sagarmala is helping build infrastructure. India needs to go digital in public service delivery - JAM trinity (Jan Dhan-Aadhaar & Mobile number) is there."

He further noted that the Centre's Skill India mission will help create a pool of skilled talent in the country, thus furthering its growth.

"India needs villages connected with i-ways - we have laid 2.7 lakh km of optical fibre network connecting more than a lakh Gram Panchayats," he&nbsp 
added.

Assuring the youth of employment and empowerment, the Prime Minister promised to bring in more industries that will create better employment opportunities for the youth.

"When we bring more FDI, we create more industries in India. When we create more industries, we create more employment opportunities. When we create more employment opportunities, we empower the youth to improve their future."

He further assured that New India would give rise to a country where the power of hope would prevail over mindless hate, and where 125 crore Indians would write their own destiny.

'Gone are the days when India was considered to be among the 'Fragile Five'. Today, we are the fastest growing economy in the world,' says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said India is no longer considered to be among the 'Fragile Five' and is now considered as the world's fastest-growing economy. "Gone are the days when India was considered to be among the 'Fragile Five'. Today, we are the fastest growing economy in the world. Powered by the 125 Crore people of India, we will grow even faster," he said while addressing the valedictory function at the New India Conclave here. Stressing the importance of infrastructure, the Prime Minister said, "India needs great road infrastructure-Bharatmala is building thousands of km of roads. India needs port-led development-Sagarmala is helping build infrastructure. India needs to go digital in public service delivery - JAM trinity (Jan Dhan-Aadhaar & Mobile number) is there." He further noted that the Centre's Skill India mission will help create a pool of skilled talent in the country, thus furthering its growth. "India needs villages connected with i-ways - we have laid 2.7 lakh km of optical fibre network connecting more than a lakh Gram Panchayats," he added. Assuring the youth of employment and empowerment, the Prime Minister promised to bring in more industries that will create better employment opportunities for the youth. "When we bring more FDI, we create more industries in India. When we create more industries, we create more employment opportunities. When we create more employment opportunities, we empower the youth to improve their future." He further assured that New India would give rise to a country where the power of hope would prevail over mindless hate, and where 125 crore Indians would write their own destiny.

India no long among 'fragile five': PM Modi

A farmers' organisation in Madhya Pradesh has said it will campaign against 112 legislators, who belong to various parties, for their "failure" to take up the issues of cultivators.

Farmers would be asked to evaluate the works done by MLAs for their welfare, and cast votes "tactically" in the state Assembly elections due later this year, Aam Kisan Union leader Kedar Sirohi told PTI.

"We have identified 112 MLAs, who were elected from rural areas but never asked a question on the issues of farmers in the Assembly," he said.

The strategy is to focus on MLAs whose victory margin was less than 5,000 votes in the last state polls, he said.

Out of the 112 legislators identified by the organisation, 86 are of the BJP, 24 of the Congress and two are Independents, Sirohi said.

"Our (union) leaders will not go to every village of the identified constituencies, but they will visit only 20 villages having sizable farmers' population in each Assembly segment. We will interact with farmers and talk about their issues to convince them to vote tactically," he said.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan had last month said that his government deposited over Rs 35,000 crore into the accounts of farmers as part of various state-run schemes over the past one year. 
Sirohi said their organisation was not against any government or political outfit.

"Farmers from rural areas elect representatives to raise their problems in the Assembly. But, instead of raising the farmers' problems, legislators speak and talk at the behest of their party leadership," he alleged.

Farmers in MP have collectively lost Rs 22,000 crore due to the 'Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojana' and there has been a loss of Rs 33,000 crore due to damage of crops in natural calamities, Sirohi claimed.

But, farmers across the state have been paid only Rs 5,300 crore under the crop insurance scheme, he said.

The Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojana is a direct benefit transfer scheme under which farmers are paid the difference between the modal price (average market price for a particular commodity over a stipulated period) and the minimum support price (MSP) of crops.

Madhya Pradesh ranks third in terms of farmer suicides in the country, Sirohi pointed out, adding that such cases have gone up by 43 per cent in the last five years.

Notably, Home Minister Bhupendra Singh, during a reply in the MP Assembly last year, had quoted the State Crime Record Bureau's data which said that 15,129 farmers and people associated with farming committed suicide from 2004 to 2016.

Sirohi said they were not going to boycott the polls. "We will spread the awareness among farmers to tactically vote in favour of those who would ensure the agri-loan waiver and sustainable income for cultivators."

He said they were hopeful that other farmers' outfits would also support their plan.

The BJP, however, criticised the organisation's move saying the government was working for farmers' welfare.

"If farmers' organisations want to do politics, they should come out openly. The MP government is committed to the cause of farmers and it won the Krishi Karman Award for six times in a row for increasing the crop productivity," state BJP spokesman Deepak Vijayvargiya said.

He said the government was providing agricultural loan on zero per cent interest, facilitating subsidised power supply, and that the irrigation capacity in the state had gone up by 600 per cent in past decade.

The Aam Kisan Union had earlier given a call for protest from June 1 to 10 this year to mark the first anniversary of the police firing in which six farmers were killed in Mandsaur on June 6 last year.

Farmers would be asked to evaluate the works done by MLAs for their welfare, and cast votes 'tactically': Aam Kisan Union leader

A farmers' organisation in Madhya Pradesh has said it will campaign against 112 legislators, who belong to various parties, for their "failure" to take up the issues of cultivators. Farmers would be asked to evaluate the works done by MLAs for their welfare, and cast votes "tactically" in the state Assembly elections due later this year, Aam Kisan Union leader Kedar Sirohi told PTI. "We have identified 112 MLAs, who were elected from rural areas but never asked a question on the issues of farmers in the Assembly," he said. The strategy is to focus on MLAs whose victory margin was less than 5,000 votes in the last state polls, he said. Out of the 112 legislators identified by the organisation, 86 are of the BJP, 24 of the Congress and two are Independents, Sirohi said. "Our (union) leaders will not go to every village of the identified constituencies, but they will visit only 20 villages having sizable farmers' population in each Assembly segment. We will interact with farmers and talk about their issues to convince them to vote tactically," he said. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan had last month said that his government deposited over Rs 35,000 crore into the accounts of farmers as part of various state-run schemes over the past one year. Sirohi said their organisation was not against any government or political outfit. "Farmers from rural areas elect representatives to raise their problems in the Assembly. But, instead of raising the farmers' problems, legislators speak and talk at the behest of their party leadership," he alleged. Farmers in MP have collectively lost Rs 22,000 crore due to the 'Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojana' and there has been a loss of Rs 33,000 crore due to damage of crops in natural calamities, Sirohi claimed. But, farmers across the state have been paid only Rs 5,300 crore under the crop insurance scheme, he said. The Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojana is a direct benefit transfer scheme under which farmers are paid the difference between the modal price (average market price for a particular commodity over a stipulated period) and the minimum support price (MSP) of crops. Madhya Pradesh ranks third in terms of farmer suicides in the country, Sirohi pointed out, adding that such cases have gone up by 43 per cent in the last five years. Notably, Home Minister Bhupendra Singh, during a reply in the MP Assembly last year, had quoted the State Crime Record Bureau's data which said that 15,129 farmers and people associated with farming committed suicide from 2004 to 2016. Sirohi said they were not going to boycott the polls. "We will spread the awareness among farmers to tactically vote in favour of those who would ensure the agri-loan waiver and sustainable income for cultivators." He said they were hopeful that other farmers' outfits would also support their plan. The BJP, however, criticised the organisation's move saying the government was working for farmers' welfare. "If farmers' organisations want to do politics, they should come out openly. The MP government is committed to the cause of farmers and it won the Krishi Karman Award for six times in a row for increasing the crop productivity," state BJP spokesman Deepak Vijayvargiya said. He said the government was providing agricultural loan on zero per cent interest, facilitating subsidised power supply, and that the irrigation capacity in the state had gone up by 600 per cent in past decade. The Aam Kisan Union had earlier given a call for protest from June 1 to 10 this year to mark the first anniversary of the police firing in which six farmers were killed in Mandsaur on June 6 last year.

Ahead of Madhya Pradesh polls, farmers' body to campaign against 112 MLAs

Finance Minister Piyush Goyal has said that the Goods and Services Tax (GST) has worked well in past one year and has generated sufficient revenue.

Addressing the seminar organised by Chhattisgarh Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCCI) under aegis Chhattisgarh State Infrastructure Development Corporation (CSIDC), Goyal said, "The GST in the past one year has successfully worked and has generated ample revenue.

This year there won't be a dearth of revenue if people continue to be a part of this system and pay their taxes. Just when people pay their taxes correctly, the government will be more empowered to reduce the rates even further, making the mechanism simpler."

The Union Minister further said that the tax-related cases in the Supreme Court will be withdrawn by the government.

"The government has decided to withdraw almost half of the Supreme Court cases relating to the taxation. Most of the cases in the Supreme Court are of small and medium scale businessmen," he added.

He also stated that the digitalisation of taxation has been done to stop the interference of Government in their business.

In a major initiative to ease the tax system of the country, the Centre rolled out the GST on July 1, 2017. Under the GST regime, a regulated tax system was introduced in India.&nbsp;

The Union Minister further said that the tax-related cases in the Supreme Court will be withdrawn by the government.

Finance Minister Piyush Goyal has said that the Goods and Services Tax (GST) has worked well in past one year and has generated sufficient revenue. Addressing the seminar organised by Chhattisgarh Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCCI) under aegis Chhattisgarh State Infrastructure Development Corporation (CSIDC), Goyal said, "The GST in the past one year has successfully worked and has generated ample revenue. This year there won't be a dearth of revenue if people continue to be a part of this system and pay their taxes. Just when people pay their taxes correctly, the government will be more empowered to reduce the rates even further, making the mechanism simpler." The Union Minister further said that the tax-related cases in the Supreme Court will be withdrawn by the government. "The government has decided to withdraw almost half of the Supreme Court cases relating to the taxation. Most of the cases in the Supreme Court are of small and medium scale businessmen," he added. He also stated that the digitalisation of taxation has been done to stop the interference of Government in their business. In a major initiative to ease the tax system of the country, the Centre rolled out the GST on July 1, 2017. Under the GST regime, a regulated tax system was introduced in India.

GST worked well, generated sufficient revenue: Piyush Goyal

The Delhi NCR has witnessed several dust storms this past couple of months and the Delhi Forest Department has come up with a solution for it. A wall of 3.1 million trees will be build around Delhi to protect it from dust storms.

Delhi Forest Department to build wall of 3.1 million trees around Delhi

One terrorist was killed while two Army personnel got injured during an ongoing encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Safawali Gal area in Kupwara along the Line of Control. According to news agency ANI, an AK-47 rifle has been recovered from the terrorist.

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Jammu & Kashmir: One terrorist killed, 2 Army personnel injured during an ongoing encounter in Kupwara's Safawali Gal along the Line of Control 1 AK-47 rifle recovered from the terrorist.
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On Sunday, a security personnel was killed while another was critically injured in an encounter between security forces and terrorists in Kupwara. The encounter took place in the Handwara region of the district.

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1 personnel killed & 1 personnel injured during encounter. Search operation was launched last evening after we got information that some terrorists are present in that area. The area is cordoned & operation is underway: AS Dinkar, SSP Kupwara on encounter in Handwara, J&K <a href="https://t.co/8p9Q40zWju">pic.twitter.com/8p9Q40zWju</a>
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The police had launched a search and cordon operation on Saturday evening after they got information about the presence of terrorists in the area.&nbsp

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp

On Sunday, a security personnel was killed while another was critically injured in an encounter.

One terrorist was killed while two Army personnel got injured during an ongoing encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Safawali Gal area in Kupwara along the Line of Control. According to news agency ANI, an AK-47 rifle has been recovered from the terrorist. Jammu & Kashmir: One terrorist killed, 2 Army personnel injured during an ongoing encounter in Kupwara's Safawali Gal along the Line of Control 1 AK-47 rifle recovered from the terrorist. — ANI (@ANI) July 16, 2018 × On Sunday, a security personnel was killed while another was critically injured in an encounter between security forces and terrorists in Kupwara. The encounter took place in the Handwara region of the district. 1 personnel killed & 1 personnel injured during encounter. Search operation was launched last evening after we got information that some terrorists are present in that area. The area is cordoned & operation is underway: AS Dinkar, SSP Kupwara on encounter in Handwara, J&K pic.twitter.com/8p9Q40zWju — ANI (@ANI) July 11, 2018 × The police had launched a search and cordon operation on Saturday evening after they got information about the presence of terrorists in the area. (With inputs from ANI)

Jammu and Kashmir: 1 terrorist killed, 2 jawans injured in encounter in Kupwara

The Central Information Commission (CIC) has launched an updated version of its mobile application in Hindi, according to a statement issued by the Personnel Ministry today.&nbsp

RTI applicants can submit their second appeal or complaint and link papers in both the languages i.e in Hindi and English, through this app, it said.

Second appeals or complaints are filed under the Right to Information (RTI) Act by an applicant who is aggrieved over a government department's reply to his or her application made under the transparency law seeking governance related information.

The CIC app is available on Google Play Store and Apple Store.

Using this app, people can get real-time status in both the Hindi and English languages.

An appellant can download the copy of a hearing notice, facilitation memo and decision through it.&nbsp

"The appellant can search and trace dak, second appeal/complaint in both the languages," the statement said.&nbsp

RTI applicants can submit their second appeal or complaint and link papers in both the languages i.e. in Hindi and English, through this app, it said

The Central Information Commission (CIC) has launched an updated version of its mobile application in Hindi, according to a statement issued by the Personnel Ministry today. RTI applicants can submit their second appeal or complaint and link papers in both the languages i.e in Hindi and English, through this app, it said. Second appeals or complaints are filed under the Right to Information (RTI) Act by an applicant who is aggrieved over a government department's reply to his or her application made under the transparency law seeking governance related information. The CIC app is available on Google Play Store and Apple Store. Using this app, people can get real-time status in both the Hindi and English languages. An appellant can download the copy of a hearing notice, facilitation memo and decision through it. "The appellant can search and trace dak, second appeal/complaint in both the languages," the statement said.

CIC launches bilingual mobile app for complaints

Jorge Sampaoli has left his position as Argentina coach after a disappointing World Cup in which the South Americans were eliminated in the last 16 by eventual champions France.

"The Argentine Football Association and the ex-coach of the national team Jorge Sampaoli&nbspreached a mutual agreement to rescind his contract," the AFA said in a statement on Sunday.

The AFA thanked 58-year-old Sampaoli and his assistants, who have also left their positions, for their services.

The decision means that Argentina, world champions in 1978 and 1986, are looking for their fourth coach in four years.

Sampaoli took over a year ago charged with putting together a side to first reach the 2018 World Cup in Russia and then mount a challenge for the trophy.

His team - thanks largely to the brilliance of Lionel Messi - qualified for the tournament with a win in their last match.

However, they struggled in a group where they faced first Iceland then Croatia and Nigeria -- drawing the first match, losing the second and winning the third with a late goal to take them into the last 16, where they went down 4-3 to France.

The AFA's decision to split with Sampaoli, the former Sevilla coach who took Chile to the Copa America title with victory over Argentina in the 2015 final, was expected even though he had a contract until 2022.

Sampaoli inherited an ageing squad under a chaotic soccer federation and never looked like putting his stamp on a side that was inconsistent for most of his tenure.

It means Argentina - who have had three different coaches since Alejandro Sabella led them to the World Cup final in 2014 - are back to square one in their search for a first major international title since winning the Copa America in 1993.

Tottenham Hotspur coach Mauricio Pochettino, Diego Simeone of Atletico Madrid and River Plate's Marcelo Gallardo, are among the coaches mentioned by local media as possible replacements.

Another two Argentines, Jose Pekerman, who managed Colombia in Russia, and Ricardo Gareca, who took Peru to their first World Cup in 36 years, have also been tipped as possible candidates along with Jorge Almiron of Atletico Nacional and Matias Almeyda, who recently stood down at Mexican club Chivas.

"The Argentine Football Association and the ex-coach of the national team Jorge Sampaoli reached a mutual agreement to rescind his contract," the AFA said in a statement on Sunday.

Jorge Sampaoli has left his position as Argentina coach after a disappointing World Cup in which the South Americans were eliminated in the last 16 by eventual champions France. "The Argentine Football Association and the ex-coach of the national team Jorge Sampaoli&nbspreached a mutual agreement to rescind his contract," the AFA said in a statement on Sunday. The AFA thanked 58-year-old Sampaoli and his assistants, who have also left their positions, for their services. The decision means that Argentina, world champions in 1978 and 1986, are looking for their fourth coach in four years. Sampaoli took over a year ago charged with putting together a side to first reach the 2018 World Cup in Russia and then mount a challenge for the trophy. His team - thanks largely to the brilliance of Lionel Messi - qualified for the tournament with a win in their last match. However, they struggled in a group where they faced first Iceland then Croatia and Nigeria -- drawing the first match, losing the second and winning the third with a late goal to take them into the last 16, where they went down 4-3 to France. The AFA's decision to split with Sampaoli, the former Sevilla coach who took Chile to the Copa America title with victory over Argentina in the 2015 final, was expected even though he had a contract until 2022. Sampaoli inherited an ageing squad under a chaotic soccer federation and never looked like putting his stamp on a side that was inconsistent for most of his tenure. It means Argentina - who have had three different coaches since Alejandro Sabella led them to the World Cup final in 2014 - are back to square one in their search for a first major international title since winning the Copa America in 1993. Tottenham Hotspur coach Mauricio Pochettino, Diego Simeone of Atletico Madrid and River Plate's Marcelo Gallardo, are among the coaches mentioned by local media as possible replacements. Another two Argentines, Jose Pekerman, who managed Colombia in Russia, and Ricardo Gareca, who took Peru to their first World Cup in 36 years, have also been tipped as possible candidates along with Jorge Almiron of Atletico Nacional and Matias Almeyda, who recently stood down at Mexican club Chivas.

Football: Jorge Sampaoli stands down as Argentina coach after World Cup failure

Rajendra Tyagi, Station House Officer (SHO) in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh lodged a complaint against himself and two other police officials for failing to undertake duties.&nbsp;

According to reports, Tyagi and two other officials, could not prevent an alleged incident of cow slaughter in his area on Sunday. &nbsp;

Abiding by his own rule -- to take an action against those who fail to perform their duties -- the SHO filed a complaint in his own name.&nbsp;

Tyagi is in charge of Kharkoda police station in Meerut.&nbsp;

Tyagi and two other officials, could not prevent an alleged incident of cow slaughter in his area on Sunday.

Rajendra Tyagi, Station House Officer (SHO) in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh lodged a complaint against himself and two other police officials for failing to undertake duties. According to reports, Tyagi and two other officials, could not prevent an alleged incident of cow slaughter in his area on Sunday. Abiding by his own rule -- to take an action against those who fail to perform their duties -- the SHO filed a complaint in his own name. Tyagi is in charge of Kharkoda police station in Meerut.

Uttar Pradesh: SHO files complaint against himself for failing to prevent cow slaughter

Delhi Chief Minister and AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal said today the BJP government at the Centre had achieved nothing if Prime Minister Narendra Modi was talking about the "Hindu-Muslim" issue after four years in office.

Kejriwal's remarks came a day after the prime minister, during a rally in Uttar Pradesh's Azamgarh, asked if the Congress was a party for Muslim men alone.

"If Modi is talking about Hindu-Muslims even after four years, it means his government has achieved nothing," Kejriwal said at the Aam Aadmi Party's state-level convention here.

Modi had yesterday attacked opposition parties, particularly the Congress, over what he claimed was their opposition to the triple talaq bill.

The Delhi chief minister asked the prime minister if talking about Hindus and Muslims would help India become the number one country in the world.

Modi was harping on the Hindu-Muslim issue when the US was talking about nanotechnology, and Japan, France and England were pursuing "big technologies", Kejriwal said.

The Delhi chief minister said that education alone would make India "number one" and alleged that no government at the Centre had worked earnestly for the education sector in the last 70 years.

"Indians are the wisest people in the world. But due to dirty politics, a large number of people are being intentionally kept illiterate," he claimed.&nbsp

Modi was harping on the Hindu-Muslim issue when the US was talking about nanotechnology, and Japan, France and England were pursuing 'big technologies', Kejriwal said.

Delhi Chief Minister and AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal said today the BJP government at the Centre had achieved nothing if Prime Minister Narendra Modi was talking about the "Hindu-Muslim" issue after four years in office. Kejriwal's remarks came a day after the prime minister, during a rally in Uttar Pradesh's Azamgarh, asked if the Congress was a party for Muslim men alone. "If Modi is talking about Hindu-Muslims even after four years, it means his government has achieved nothing," Kejriwal said at the Aam Aadmi Party's state-level convention here. Modi had yesterday attacked opposition parties, particularly the Congress, over what he claimed was their opposition to the triple talaq bill. The Delhi chief minister asked the prime minister if talking about Hindus and Muslims would help India become the number one country in the world. Modi was harping on the Hindu-Muslim issue when the US was talking about nanotechnology, and Japan, France and England were pursuing "big technologies", Kejriwal said. The Delhi chief minister said that education alone would make India "number one" and alleged that no government at the Centre had worked earnestly for the education sector in the last 70 years. "Indians are the wisest people in the world. But due to dirty politics, a large number of people are being intentionally kept illiterate," he claimed.

Arvind Kejriwal criticises PM Modi for 'Hindu-Muslim' talk

Technology has entered society like a parasite and is a threat to humanity in several ways, senior BJP leader Murli Manohar Joshi today said.

Speaking on the 81st birth anniversary celebration of late journalist Prabhash Joshi at the Satyagrah Mandap, near Rajghat here, the MP from Kanpur said with advancement in technology, humans are getting trapped in computers.

"Technology has entered our lives so much that we cannot get rid of it no matter how much we try. Technology is very magical. We are going into space, finding life on other planets, progressing in medicine, artificial intelligence etc.&nbsp;

"Question arises that on one hand we are going towards these things but we humans are also getting closed in a computer. Technology is like parasite," he said.

While addressing a large gathering at the event, which is organised in the memory of Prabhash every year, the politician threw light on the misuse of information and companies making money out of this data.

He also referred to Aadhaar being the newest form of data collection.

"It is a world of data. A company pays billions to get data about people. In elections earlier, people used to visit households and talk. Now everything is on mobile. Experts are consulted before speaking in a particular area as the have the data of the people there.

"Aadhaar is the new technology which takes all your information. Human identity has now become a number. Earlier it was the name and address of a person which he identified with. Now your identity is your bank account number, Aadhaar number, phone number etc.," he said.

He further said technology was being misused and dependency on it was increasing and harming society.&nbsp;

"People rely on everything 'Google' says. Judges also give judgement using 'Google'. Teachers use it. It is an era of techno-savvy education. There is a lot of reliability and dependability," Joshi said.

The event was also attended by former comptroller and auditor general T N Chaturvedi and several activists and scholars gathered to celebrate the memory of the late journalist.

The programme began with a short film on his life and works elaborating on his contribution to the field of journalism as the founder editor of Jansatta.

A trust has also been established in the name of Prabhash.&nbsp;

He also referred to Aadhaar being the newest form of data collection.

Technology has entered society like a parasite and is a threat to humanity in several ways, senior BJP leader Murli Manohar Joshi today said. Speaking on the 81st birth anniversary celebration of late journalist Prabhash Joshi at the Satyagrah Mandap, near Rajghat here, the MP from Kanpur said with advancement in technology, humans are getting trapped in computers. "Technology has entered our lives so much that we cannot get rid of it no matter how much we try. Technology is very magical. We are going into space, finding life on other planets, progressing in medicine, artificial intelligence etc. "Question arises that on one hand we are going towards these things but we humans are also getting closed in a computer. Technology is like parasite," he said. While addressing a large gathering at the event, which is organised in the memory of Prabhash every year, the politician threw light on the misuse of information and companies making money out of this data. He also referred to Aadhaar being the newest form of data collection. "It is a world of data. A company pays billions to get data about people. In elections earlier, people used to visit households and talk. Now everything is on mobile. Experts are consulted before speaking in a particular area as the have the data of the people there. "Aadhaar is the new technology which takes all your information. Human identity has now become a number. Earlier it was the name and address of a person which he identified with. Now your identity is your bank account number, Aadhaar number, phone number etc.," he said. He further said technology was being misused and dependency on it was increasing and harming society. "People rely on everything 'Google' says. Judges also give judgement using 'Google'. Teachers use it. It is an era of techno-savvy education. There is a lot of reliability and dependability," Joshi said. The event was also attended by former comptroller and auditor general T N Chaturvedi and several activists and scholars gathered to celebrate the memory of the late journalist. The programme began with a short film on his life and works elaborating on his contribution to the field of journalism as the founder editor of Jansatta. A trust has also been established in the name of Prabhash.

Technology is like parasite, threat to humanity: Murli Manohar Joshi

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Monday said that his government will resign if the territorial integrity of the state is compromised to resolve the Naga issue.

Emphasising that a consensus has to be reached before taking a final decision on the Naga issue, Singh in an exclusive interview told ANI said: "If our voice is not heard, if the consent of the state assembly or of the people is not taken and changes are made, then we (government) will be nowhere. We will have to leave our posts automatically".

Singh is camping in the capital with a 30-member delegation to stress his government's stand on the issue. He met Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today and he is likely to call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow.

Speaking to ANI, Singh emphasised that his government will have no moral right to remain in power if the territorial integrity of the state is fiddled with. There is a widespread speculation in the state that the Centre and the NSCN-IM may have a deal on the Naga issue and the people of the state is kept in the dark.

Calling for a consensus for a "peaceful" solution, the chief minister said that the Centre should formally inform the Manipur assembly and state government before taking decision.

"Right now I cannot say what will happen. We want to see a peaceful solution," he said.

In the backdrop of the past experience when the state witnessed widespread violence on the issue, Singh warned of "uncontrollable reaction if something happens due to ongoing peace talks with Naga groups". 
"It is very important to keep the people of Manipur, its history and background protected in the existing (territory of the) state," he said.

Worried that Manipur will be in flames if a decision against people's wish is taken, Singh emphasised: "If something happens due to the ongoing peace talks then reaction of people would be uncontrollable".

Manipur has been witnessing unrest since interlocutor of the Naga peace talks RN Ravi suggested an autonomous Naga Territorial Council to resolve the Naga issue.

Singh recalled that Prime Minister Modi and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah had assured him that Manipur's territorial integrity won't be infringed.

"We met Home Minister today, told him the purpose of our visit and discussed our apprehensions. During assembly poll campaigns as well,&nbsp

Prime Minister Modi, Amit Shah and Rajnath Ji met us and assured that territorial integrity of Manipur won't be touched. We continue to hold the same hope," Singh said. The BJP came to power in Manipur in the last assembly elections in 2017.&nbsp

Singh is camping in the capital with a 30-member delegation to stress his government's stand on the issue

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Monday said that his government will resign if the territorial integrity of the state is compromised to resolve the Naga issue. Emphasising that a consensus has to be reached before taking a final decision on the Naga issue, Singh in an exclusive interview told ANI said: "If our voice is not heard, if the consent of the state assembly or of the people is not taken and changes are made, then we (government) will be nowhere. We will have to leave our posts automatically". Singh is camping in the capital with a 30-member delegation to stress his government's stand on the issue. He met Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today and he is likely to call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow. Speaking to ANI, Singh emphasised that his government will have no moral right to remain in power if the territorial integrity of the state is fiddled with. There is a widespread speculation in the state that the Centre and the NSCN-IM may have a deal on the Naga issue and the people of the state is kept in the dark. Calling for a consensus for a "peaceful" solution, the chief minister said that the Centre should formally inform the Manipur assembly and state government before taking decision. "Right now I cannot say what will happen. We want to see a peaceful solution," he said. In the backdrop of the past experience when the state witnessed widespread violence on the issue, Singh warned of "uncontrollable reaction if something happens due to ongoing peace talks with Naga groups". "It is very important to keep the people of Manipur, its history and background protected in the existing (territory of the) state," he said. Worried that Manipur will be in flames if a decision against people's wish is taken, Singh emphasised: "If something happens due to the ongoing peace talks then reaction of people would be uncontrollable". Manipur has been witnessing unrest since interlocutor of the Naga peace talks RN Ravi suggested an autonomous Naga Territorial Council to resolve the Naga issue. Singh recalled that Prime Minister Modi and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah had assured him that Manipur's territorial integrity won't be infringed. "We met Home Minister today, told him the purpose of our visit and discussed our apprehensions. During assembly poll campaigns as well, Prime Minister Modi, Amit Shah and Rajnath Ji met us and assured that territorial integrity of Manipur won't be touched. We continue to hold the same hope," Singh said. The BJP came to power in Manipur in the last assembly elections in 2017.

We'll resign if territorial integrity compromised: Manipur CM

Facing flak over the Centre's proposal to set up a social media hub to "collect digital chatter", Union minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore said today that the government has "no plan to control social media."

Talking to reporters on the sidelines of an event in Gandhinagar, Rathore said the Centre believed that a person should "self-regulate" opinions on social media platforms and express his point of view with responsibility.

The Union minister of state for information and broadcasting also took a swipe at the Congress for "creating an environment of fear" after its criticism of the project and said the party has "no better issue" against the government.

"Our government has no plan to control social media. Whoever is putting his opinions on social media should self-regulate and put his point of view with responsibility," Rathore, who was in Gandhinagar to attend the Youth Parliament event at Karnavati University.

"If there is a possibility of riots anywhere, the local government should keep an eye on it and take steps it deems fit," he said.

Rathore added that Facebook-owned messaging platform WhatsApp has rolled out changes after the Information Technology Ministry approached it following instances of fake news being shared on it, that led to incidents of lynching.

"When you forward a message, there is 'forwarded' written on it, so that you know it is not an original message but has been forwarded. Companies are making efforts to control it through machine learning so that they are not misused," he said.

Attacking the opposition, the minister said: "the environment of fear created by the opposition shows that it has no strong issue against the government and is making up issues that the freedom of expression is in danger."

He alleged that the Jawaharlal Nehru government was the first to bring an amendment to the Constitution putting a restriction on the freedom of speech.

"To stop Syama Prasad Mookerjee (founder of Jana Sangh) from speaking on Akhand Bharat, a restriction on free speech was created," Rathore claimed.

"Thereafter his daughter's son (Rajiv Gandhi) wanted to read letters posted by Indians and wanted to bring an amendment to the Indian Postal Act, which was not ratified by the (then) president," he said.

Rathore stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has ensured that the Constitution was protected along with the people of the country.

Recently, the Broadcast Engineering Consultants India Limited, a miniratna public sector undertaking under the information and broadcasting ministry, floated a tender for supplying software for the social media hub project.

"A technology platform is needed to collect digital media chatter from all core social media platforms as well as digital platforms such as news, blogs... In a single system providing real-time insights, metrics and other valuable data," the tender document stated.

Under the project, media persons would be employed on a contractual basis in each district to be the "eyes and ears" of the government and provide real-time updates.

On a petition challenging the project, the Supreme Court on Friday took a strong note observing that it will be "like creating a surveillance state".

The top court had said the government wants to tap citizens' WhatsApp messages and sought its response on August 3.

Rathore stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has ensured that the Constitution was protected along with the people of the country.

Facing flak over the Centre's proposal to set up a social media hub to "collect digital chatter", Union minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore said today that the government has "no plan to control social media." Talking to reporters on the sidelines of an event in Gandhinagar, Rathore said the Centre believed that a person should "self-regulate" opinions on social media platforms and express his point of view with responsibility. The Union minister of state for information and broadcasting also took a swipe at the Congress for "creating an environment of fear" after its criticism of the project and said the party has "no better issue" against the government. "Our government has no plan to control social media. Whoever is putting his opinions on social media should self-regulate and put his point of view with responsibility," Rathore, who was in Gandhinagar to attend the Youth Parliament event at Karnavati University. "If there is a possibility of riots anywhere, the local government should keep an eye on it and take steps it deems fit," he said. Rathore added that Facebook-owned messaging platform WhatsApp has rolled out changes after the Information Technology Ministry approached it following instances of fake news being shared on it, that led to incidents of lynching. "When you forward a message, there is 'forwarded' written on it, so that you know it is not an original message but has been forwarded. Companies are making efforts to control it through machine learning so that they are not misused," he said. Attacking the opposition, the minister said: "the environment of fear created by the opposition shows that it has no strong issue against the government and is making up issues that the freedom of expression is in danger." He alleged that the Jawaharlal Nehru government was the first to bring an amendment to the Constitution putting a restriction on the freedom of speech. "To stop Syama Prasad Mookerjee (founder of Jana Sangh) from speaking on Akhand Bharat, a restriction on free speech was created," Rathore claimed. "Thereafter his daughter's son (Rajiv Gandhi) wanted to read letters posted by Indians and wanted to bring an amendment to the Indian Postal Act, which was not ratified by the (then) president," he said. Rathore stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has ensured that the Constitution was protected along with the people of the country. Recently, the Broadcast Engineering Consultants India Limited, a miniratna public sector undertaking under the information and broadcasting ministry, floated a tender for supplying software for the social media hub project. "A technology platform is needed to collect digital media chatter from all core social media platforms as well as digital platforms such as news, blogs... In a single system providing real-time insights, metrics and other valuable data," the tender document stated. Under the project, media persons would be employed on a contractual basis in each district to be the "eyes and ears" of the government and provide real-time updates. On a petition challenging the project, the Supreme Court on Friday took a strong note observing that it will be "like creating a surveillance state". The top court had said the government wants to tap citizens' WhatsApp messages and sought its response on August 3.

Opposition creating fear, no plan to control social media: Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/for-putin-helsinki-talks-with-trump-a-win-before-he-even-sits-down-151970">For Putin, Helsinki talks with Trump a win before he even sits down</a>

For US President Donald Trump, a summit with Vladimir Putin risks a political backlash at home and abroad. For the Russian president, however, the fact the summit is even happening is already a big geopolitical win.

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France won their second World Cup 20 years after their maiden triumph on Sunday, seeing off a dogged and desperate Croatia side who refused to lie down in one of the most electrifying finals in recent years.

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For Putin, Helsinki talks with Trump a win before he even sits down For US President Donald Trump, a summit with Vladimir Putin risks a political backlash at home and abroad. For the Russian president, however, the fact the summit is even happening is already a big geopolitical win. Les Bleus seal second World Cup triumph with 4-2 win over spirited Croatia France won their second World Cup 20 years after their maiden triumph on Sunday, seeing off a dogged and desperate Croatia side who refused to lie down in one of the most electrifying finals in recent years. Boeing needs 43,000 more planes to meet demand, concerned about US-China tariffs The world needs to produce 43,000 new aircraft over the next two decades to meet booming demand, Boeing's CEO forecast on Sunday. Dennis Muilenberg, chief executive of the US aerospace giant, revealed the outlook upgrade to reporters in London before the sector's Farnborough Air Show starting Monday. Pakistan opens terrorism case against ex-PM's party days before election Pakistani authorities have opened a criminal case against leaders of jailed ex-prime minister Nawaz Sharif`s political party under an anti-terrorism law, 10 days before a hotly contested general election, according to a police report. Emmanuel Macron can bless his lucky stars, again, as 'Les Bleus' win World Cup France's thrilling 4-2 triumph over Croatia in the World Cup final on Sunday, their second World Cup after home success in 1998 that ushered in a wave of national optimism, is the sort of good-news fillip most presidents can only dream of.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Another incident of triple talaq has surfaced in Uttar Pradesh's Shamli village where a man allegedly gave triple talaq to wife after she gave birth to a baby girl.&nbsp;

The victim reported being abused and said that she was asked for money and a bike in return for giving birth to a baby girl.&nbsp;

"He abused me and has asked me to get money and bike as I've given birth to a girl and not a boy," the victim was quoted by ANI.

ASP Shlok Kumar says a case has been registered and an investigation is underway.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Shamli: Man allegedly gave triple talaq to wife after she gave birth to baby girl. Victim says, 'he abused me & has asked me to get money & bike as I've given birth to a girl & not a boy. ASP Shlok Kumar says, 'we have registered the case & are investigating the matter' (15.7.18) <a href="https://t.co/I4IYoz1jCw">pic.twitter.com/I4IYoz1jCw</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1018672118509293568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In another incident, a woman in Uttar Pradesh reported getting triple talaq over a burn chappati. The 24-year-old woman lodged a complaint with the local police last Sunday stating that her husband exclaimed 'talaq' thrice and asked her to leave the house as the chappati she had prepared got burnt.

The incident took place in Pahretha village of Mahoba district in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The victim reported of being abused and said that she was asked to get money and a bike in return for giving birth to a baby girl.

Another incident of triple talaq has surfaced in Uttar Pradesh's Shamli village where a man allegedly gave triple talaq to wife after she gave birth to a baby girl. The victim reported being abused and said that she was asked for money and a bike in return for giving birth to a baby girl. "He abused me and has asked me to get money and bike as I've given birth to a girl and not a boy," the victim was quoted by ANI. ASP Shlok Kumar says a case has been registered and an investigation is underway. Shamli: Man allegedly gave triple talaq to wife after she gave birth to baby girl. Victim says, 'he abused me & has asked me to get money & bike as I've given birth to a girl & not a boy. ASP Shlok Kumar says, 'we have registered the case & are investigating the matter' (15.7.18) pic.twitter.com/I4IYoz1jCw — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) July 16, 2018 × In another incident, a woman in Uttar Pradesh reported getting triple talaq over a burn chappati. The 24-year-old woman lodged a complaint with the local police last Sunday stating that her husband exclaimed 'talaq' thrice and asked her to leave the house as the chappati she had prepared got burnt. The incident took place in Pahretha village of Mahoba district in Uttar Pradesh. (With inputs from agencies)

Uttar Pradesh: Woman gets triple talaq for giving birth to girl

At least 67 people including 13 women suffered injuries after a tent collapsed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rally in Midnapore,&nbsp;West Bengal on Monday.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Moments after a portion of tent in PM Narendra Modi’s rally in Midnapore collapsed during his speech today. PM later met the injured in hospital. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengal</a> <a href="https://t.co/NjvFY7d6Ay">pic.twitter.com/NjvFY7d6Ay</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1018778144092966912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The incident happened while Modi was addressing a public rally.

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A portion of the tent in PM Narendra Modi’s rally in Midnapore collapsed during his speech today. PM instructed the SPG personnel to look after the people and attend to any injured. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengal</a> <a href="https://t.co/s938Q5lgM1">pic.twitter.com/s938Q5lgM1</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1018773909846491136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The tent, officials said, was erected next to the main entrance of the rally venue to shelter people from the rain.&nbsp;

Many&nbsp;BJP supporters were seen crowding inside the tent during the rally. The prime minister could be heard asking them to be careful, officials said.

According to officials, the prime minister saw the tent collapsing while he was in the middle of his speech. He immediately instructed SPG personnel standing next to him to look after the people and attend to the injured.

The local BJP unit as well as Modi's personal staff, including his doctor and SPG personnel, swung into action to help the injured, officials said.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> A portion of tent in PM Narendra Modi’s rally in Midnapore collapsed during his speech today. PM instructed the SPG personnel to look after the people and attend to the injured. PM later met those injured, in hospital. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengal</a> <a href="https://t.co/yb1CFQaSSc">pic.twitter.com/yb1CFQaSSc</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1018775233074008064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Most of the injured have been admitted to the hospital,&nbsp;an official said, adding that the number could rise.

After addressing the rally, the PM went to the hospital to visit the injured.

(With PTI inputs)

Modi, who addressed a public rally in Midnapore

At least 67 people including 13 women suffered injuries after a tent collapsed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rally in Midnapore, West Bengal on Monday. #WATCH Moments after a portion of tent in PM Narendra Modi’s rally in Midnapore collapsed during his speech today. PM later met the injured in hospital. #WestBengal pic.twitter.com/NjvFY7d6Ay — ANI (@ANI) July 16, 2018 × The incident happened while Modi was addressing a public rally. A portion of the tent in PM Narendra Modi’s rally in Midnapore collapsed during his speech today. PM instructed the SPG personnel to look after the people and attend to any injured. #WestBengal pic.twitter.com/s938Q5lgM1 — ANI (@ANI) July 16, 2018 × The tent, officials said, was erected next to the main entrance of the rally venue to shelter people from the rain. Many BJP supporters were seen crowding inside the tent during the rally. The prime minister could be heard asking them to be careful, officials said. According to officials, the prime minister saw the tent collapsing while he was in the middle of his speech. He immediately instructed SPG personnel standing next to him to look after the people and attend to the injured. The local BJP unit as well as Modi's personal staff, including his doctor and SPG personnel, swung into action to help the injured, officials said. #WATCH A portion of tent in PM Narendra Modi’s rally in Midnapore collapsed during his speech today. PM instructed the SPG personnel to look after the people and attend to the injured. PM later met those injured, in hospital. #WestBengal pic.twitter.com/yb1CFQaSSc — ANI (@ANI) July 16, 2018 × Most of the injured have been admitted to the hospital, an official said, adding that the number could rise. After addressing the rally, the PM went to the hospital to visit the injured. (With PTI inputs)

67 injured as tent collapses during Modi's Midnapore rally, PM visits hospital

The opposition RJD in Bihar today claimed that there was a stampede-like situation within the NDA in Bihar with many MLAs of the ruling coalition willing to switch sides.

RJD national vice-president Raghuvansh Prasad Singh made the claim while rubbishing reports that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's JD(U) and the BJP were set to reach an amicable seat-sharing formula following the recent visit of Amit Shah.

"The NDA is not heading for a mere split. It is going to face a stampede. Soon the NDA will be left with only the BJP.

"We have seen how its oldest ally, the Shiv Sena, is sulking. A prominent ally like Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP supremo Chandrababu Naidu has pulled out. Similar things may happen in Bihar", Singh said here. 
He was replying to a query as to whether the RJD-Congress combine was anxious over the bonhomie that was on display during the interactions between Nitish Kumar and Amit Shah here last week.

"Remember, only recently former chief minister and Hindustani Awam Morcha leader Jitan Ram Manjhi, who was earlier with the NDA, switched sides. More will follow at a suitable time. They are in regular touch with us," he said.

The NDA in Bihar consists of the LJP of Ram Vilas Paswan and the RLSP of Upendra Kushwaha, and Singh did not specify MLAs of which party were in touch with the RJD.

He said, "About 25 MLAs have said they are ready to come out openly in support of the RJD-Congress combine".

The former union minister also flayed the Narendra Modi government for the tag of eminence given to the proposed Jio Institute and charged the BJP with having spent "thousands of crores" on building new offices and renovating existing ones besides providing logistics to booth level workers.

"All this is taking place when the backbone of the common man has been broken by the cumulative effect of GST, demonetisation and soaring fuel prices. Every day more than 20 farmers are committing suicide while about 200 are giving up farming," he said.

"A mass movement has become the need of the hour and we will soon come up with the detailed programme of such a movement," Singh said. PTI NAC

RJD national vice-president Raghuvansh Prasad Singh made the claim while rubbishing reports that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's JD(U) and the BJP were set to reach an amicable seat-sharing formula.

The opposition RJD in Bihar today claimed that there was a stampede-like situation within the NDA in Bihar with many MLAs of the ruling coalition willing to switch sides. RJD national vice-president Raghuvansh Prasad Singh made the claim while rubbishing reports that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's JD(U) and the BJP were set to reach an amicable seat-sharing formula following the recent visit of Amit Shah. "The NDA is not heading for a mere split. It is going to face a stampede. Soon the NDA will be left with only the BJP. "We have seen how its oldest ally, the Shiv Sena, is sulking. A prominent ally like Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP supremo Chandrababu Naidu has pulled out. Similar things may happen in Bihar", Singh said here. He was replying to a query as to whether the RJD-Congress combine was anxious over the bonhomie that was on display during the interactions between Nitish Kumar and Amit Shah here last week. "Remember, only recently former chief minister and Hindustani Awam Morcha leader Jitan Ram Manjhi, who was earlier with the NDA, switched sides. More will follow at a suitable time. They are in regular touch with us," he said. The NDA in Bihar consists of the LJP of Ram Vilas Paswan and the RLSP of Upendra Kushwaha, and Singh did not specify MLAs of which party were in touch with the RJD. He said, "About 25 MLAs have said they are ready to come out openly in support of the RJD-Congress combine". The former union minister also flayed the Narendra Modi government for the tag of eminence given to the proposed Jio Institute and charged the BJP with having spent "thousands of crores" on building new offices and renovating existing ones besides providing logistics to booth level workers. "All this is taking place when the backbone of the common man has been broken by the cumulative effect of GST, demonetisation and soaring fuel prices. Every day more than 20 farmers are committing suicide while about 200 are giving up farming," he said. "A mass movement has become the need of the hour and we will soon come up with the detailed programme of such a movement," Singh said. PTI NAC

Many NDA MLAs willing to switch side, claims RJD

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