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A litigant in the Ayodhya temple-mosque land dispute case told the Supreme court on Friday that the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/babri-masjid-ramjanmabhoomi-dispute-a-timeline-25799">Babri Masjid</a> was destroyed by the "Hindu Taliban" just like the demolition of the Buddha statue by the Taliban at Bamiyan in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

No law or the Constitution allows the destruction of religious structures of any faith, senior advocate Rajeev Dhavan, appearing for the legal heirs of M Siddiq -- one of the original litigants in the case and has died, told a bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices Ashok Bhushan and S Abdul Nazeer.

Dhavan also questioned the locus of the Shia Central Waqf Board in the case.

His comments came after the Shia board told the bench that it was willing to donate one-third of the disputed land, which the Allahabad High Court had given to the Muslims, to the Hindu group for "peace, harmony, unity and integrity" in this great country.

The counsel for the Shia Central Waqf Board said they were the claimants of the Muslim share of land at the disputed Ayodhya site, as the Babri Masjid was built by Mir Baki, a Shia Muslim.

He argued that those who destroyed the mosque should be barred from making any claim since "no one has the right to destroy a mosque or any other religious structures."

He also questioned the "intervention" of an Additional Solicitor General (ASG), who was appearing for Uttar Pradesh government, in the matter and said that arguments by the law officer were "uncalled" for.

Dhavan also countered the arguments advanced by the Hindu group about "pilgrimage" and said as per their submissions, the Muslims do not have the right under Article 25 (freedom of conscience and free profession, practice and propagation of religion).

He said if arguments by Hindu group was to be accepted, then Christians might be asked to go directly to the Pope for prayers and Sikhs could be asked to go only to the Golden Temple at Amritsar.

The Muslim groups have argued before the bench that the "sweeping" observation of the apex court in the verdict needed to be reconsidered by a five-judge bench as "it had and will have a bearing" on Babri Masjid-Ram Temple land dispute case.

In February, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) said that the Babri Masjid will remain a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/babri-masjid-will-remain-mosque-till-eternity-aimplb-32515">mosque till eternity </a>and Muslims can never exchange land for the masjid.&nbsp;

In a statement issued on the concluding day of its 26th plenary, the board said Babri masjid is an essential part of faith in Islam and Muslims can never "abdicate" the Masjid.

A special CBI court framed charges of criminal conspiracy against senior BJP leaders L K Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi and Uma Bharti in the 1992 Babri Masjid case.

The court rejected the discharge petition filed by the three leaders and nine others who have been accused of criminal conspiracy. Earlier, the court granted bail to all twelve accused on a personal bond of Rs 50,000.

(with inputs from PTI)

No law or the Constitution allows destruction of religious structures of any faith, the Supreme Court was told.

A litigant in the Ayodhya temple-mosque land dispute case told the Supreme court on Friday that the Babri Masjid was destroyed by the "Hindu Taliban" just like the demolition of the Buddha statue by the Taliban at Bamiyan in Afghanistan. No law or the Constitution allows the destruction of religious structures of any faith, senior advocate Rajeev Dhavan, appearing for the legal heirs of M Siddiq -- one of the original litigants in the case and has died, told a bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices Ashok Bhushan and S Abdul Nazeer. Dhavan also questioned the locus of the Shia Central Waqf Board in the case. His comments came after the Shia board told the bench that it was willing to donate one-third of the disputed land, which the Allahabad High Court had given to the Muslims, to the Hindu group for "peace, harmony, unity and integrity" in this great country. The counsel for the Shia Central Waqf Board said they were the claimants of the Muslim share of land at the disputed Ayodhya site, as the Babri Masjid was built by Mir Baki, a Shia Muslim. He argued that those who destroyed the mosque should be barred from making any claim since "no one has the right to destroy a mosque or any other religious structures." He also questioned the "intervention" of an Additional Solicitor General (ASG), who was appearing for Uttar Pradesh government, in the matter and said that arguments by the law officer were "uncalled" for. Dhavan also countered the arguments advanced by the Hindu group about "pilgrimage" and said as per their submissions, the Muslims do not have the right under Article 25 (freedom of conscience and free profession, practice and propagation of religion). He said if arguments by Hindu group was to be accepted, then Christians might be asked to go directly to the Pope for prayers and Sikhs could be asked to go only to the Golden Temple at Amritsar. The Muslim groups have argued before the bench that the "sweeping" observation of the apex court in the verdict needed to be reconsidered by a five-judge bench as "it had and will have a bearing" on Babri Masjid-Ram Temple land dispute case. In February, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) said that the Babri Masjid will remain a mosque till eternity and Muslims can never exchange land for the masjid. In a statement issued on the concluding day of its 26th plenary, the board said Babri masjid is an essential part of faith in Islam and Muslims can never "abdicate" the Masjid. A special CBI court framed charges of criminal conspiracy against senior BJP leaders L K Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi and Uma Bharti in the 1992 Babri Masjid case. The court rejected the discharge petition filed by the three leaders and nine others who have been accused of criminal conspiracy. Earlier, the court granted bail to all twelve accused on a personal bond of Rs 50,000. (with inputs from PTI)

Babri Masjid was destroyed by 'Hindu Taliban', case litigant tells Supreme Court

The Income Tax Department has decided to re-assess the tax returns of over 50 high net-worth individuals who purchased costly jewellery from firms owned by absconding diamantaire Nirav Modi, official sources said.

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They said the taxman decided to initiate the step after a number of people, it sent notices asking them to explain the source of income for the purchase of the jewellery, denied any cash payment made by them to Nirav Modi's firms.

Officials said the department has gathered documents that indicate that these select buyers of high-end jewellery had split the total payment for diamond jewellery, by paying a part through cheque or card (debit/credit) and the rest in cash.

In reply to the tax notices, most of the people said that they did not make any cash payment, but this version does not corroborate with the data obtained by the IT Department vis-a-vis the sales made by the firms of Nirav Modi.

It has been found from the company books that payments were received after splitting them into cash and cheque/card transactions, officials said, hence it is essential to re-assess the income tax returns (ITRs) of these over 50 people beginning from the 2014-15 assessment year.

They said if discrepancies of concealed cash payments are found, which in some cases may be in several lakhs, the HNIs will be charged for tax evasion and subsequent action will be initiated.

Some more cases of this nature are under preliminary probe, the officials said.

The department had recently conducted searches on the premises of a Rewari-based hospital group, related to the family of Swaraj India leader Yogendra Yadav after it was found that the owners of the firm allegedly made a part-cash and cheque payment against the purchase of jewellery from a Nirav Modi firm.

The tax department has already filed a charge sheet against Nirav Modi and others before a Mumbai court for alleged tax evasion.

Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi are also being investigated by the Enforcement Directorate and the CBI after it was detected that they allegedly cheated Punjab National Bank of more than Rs. 13,400 crore with the purported involvement of a few of its employees.

The scam, which reportedly began in 2011, was detected in January this year, after which PNB officials reported it to the probe agencies.

Two criminal complaints were filed by the ED in these instances after taking cognisance of CBI FIRs.

Officials said the taxman decided to initiate the step after a number of people, it sent notices asking them to explain the source of income for the purchase of the jewellery, denied any cash payment made by them to Nirav Modi's firms

The Income Tax Department has decided to re-assess the tax returns of over 50 high net-worth individuals who purchased costly jewellery from firms owned by absconding diamantaire Nirav Modi, official sources said. × They said the taxman decided to initiate the step after a number of people, it sent notices asking them to explain the source of income for the purchase of the jewellery, denied any cash payment made by them to Nirav Modi's firms. Officials said the department has gathered documents that indicate that these select buyers of high-end jewellery had split the total payment for diamond jewellery, by paying a part through cheque or card (debit/credit) and the rest in cash. In reply to the tax notices, most of the people said that they did not make any cash payment, but this version does not corroborate with the data obtained by the IT Department vis-a-vis the sales made by the firms of Nirav Modi. It has been found from the company books that payments were received after splitting them into cash and cheque/card transactions, officials said, hence it is essential to re-assess the income tax returns (ITRs) of these over 50 people beginning from the 2014-15 assessment year. They said if discrepancies of concealed cash payments are found, which in some cases may be in several lakhs, the HNIs will be charged for tax evasion and subsequent action will be initiated. Some more cases of this nature are under preliminary probe, the officials said. The department had recently conducted searches on the premises of a Rewari-based hospital group, related to the family of Swaraj India leader Yogendra Yadav after it was found that the owners of the firm allegedly made a part-cash and cheque payment against the purchase of jewellery from a Nirav Modi firm. The tax department has already filed a charge sheet against Nirav Modi and others before a Mumbai court for alleged tax evasion. Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi are also being investigated by the Enforcement Directorate and the CBI after it was detected that they allegedly cheated Punjab National Bank of more than Rs. 13,400 crore with the purported involvement of a few of its employees. The scam, which reportedly began in 2011, was detected in January this year, after which PNB officials reported it to the probe agencies. Two criminal complaints were filed by the ED in these instances after taking cognisance of CBI FIRs.

50 wealthy Indians to face tax scrutiny for buying Nirav Modi jewellery

Bhartiya Janata Party has denied the claims made by party president Amit Shah&nbsp;about <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/will-build-ram-temple-in-ayodhya-before-2019-elections-says-amit-shah-151510">constructing the Ram Mandir at Ayodhya</a> before the 2019 elections.

Following Shah's assurance at a meeting in Hyderabad, the BJP said:&nbsp;“no such matter was even on the agenda”.

According to reports Shah had claimed on Friday that the construction of the Ram Temple at Ayodhya will commence before the 2019 elections.

Interacting with nearly 30 leaders of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) working at various levels in the state at a private hotel in Friday, he said the party is committed to the construction of the Ram Temple and expressed the confidence that necessary circumstances would emerge once the apex court gave its judgment on the issue pending before it.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

According to reports Shah had claimed on Friday that the construction of the Ram Temple at Ayodhya will commence before the 2019 elections.

Bhartiya Janata Party has denied the claims made by party president Amit Shah about constructing the Ram Mandir at Ayodhya before the 2019 elections. Following Shah's assurance at a meeting in Hyderabad, the BJP said: “no such matter was even on the agenda”. According to reports Shah had claimed on Friday that the construction of the Ram Temple at Ayodhya will commence before the 2019 elections. Interacting with nearly 30 leaders of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) working at various levels in the state at a private hotel in Friday, he said the party is committed to the construction of the Ram Temple and expressed the confidence that necessary circumstances would emerge once the apex court gave its judgment on the issue pending before it.

BJP denies Amit Shah's assurance of Ram Mandir construction before 2019 polls

Police have busted a fake passport racket in Tamil Nadu, which helped Sri Lankan nationals fly abroad from the city as Indian citizens.

Two Sri Lankans, including a 38-year-old woman, suspected to be part of the racket, have been arrested, police said.

Earlier, the crime branch wing had arrested 11 people, including a travel agent, for allegedly preparing fake passports by collecting amounts of upto Rs 10 lakh from Sri Lankan nationals.

Police said investigations revealed that the woman had come to Tamil Nadu from the island nation on a tourist visa some time back and had been staying here well past its expiry date.

She had sought the help of the travel agent, who prepared a fake passport for her.

Her accomplice, who also possessed a Sri Lankan passport, managed to get a fake Aadhar card for her, police said.

The woman and her accomplice were arrested from a house in the city yesterday and produced before a local court, which later sent them to Puzhal central prison.

Describing the modus operandi, police said the travel agent used to prepare fake Indian passports for Sri Lankan nationals, based on the information he received from his aide in Colombo.

The man, with the help of his gang, collected expired passports from people of economically weaker sections and sold them to Sri Lankan nationals as valid Indian passports for a monetary consideration.

Police also recovered 77 Indian passports, 12 Sri Lankan passports and machines used to prepare them and cash of Rs 85,000.

Police also recovered 77 Indian passports, 12 Sri Lankan passports and machines used to prepare them and cash of Rs 85,000

Police have busted a fake passport racket in Tamil Nadu, which helped Sri Lankan nationals fly abroad from the city as Indian citizens. Two Sri Lankans, including a 38-year-old woman, suspected to be part of the racket, have been arrested, police said. Earlier, the crime branch wing had arrested 11 people, including a travel agent, for allegedly preparing fake passports by collecting amounts of upto Rs 10 lakh from Sri Lankan nationals. Police said investigations revealed that the woman had come to Tamil Nadu from the island nation on a tourist visa some time back and had been staying here well past its expiry date. She had sought the help of the travel agent, who prepared a fake passport for her. Her accomplice, who also possessed a Sri Lankan passport, managed to get a fake Aadhar card for her, police said. The woman and her accomplice were arrested from a house in the city yesterday and produced before a local court, which later sent them to Puzhal central prison. Describing the modus operandi, police said the travel agent used to prepare fake Indian passports for Sri Lankan nationals, based on the information he received from his aide in Colombo. The man, with the help of his gang, collected expired passports from people of economically weaker sections and sold them to Sri Lankan nationals as valid Indian passports for a monetary consideration. Police also recovered 77 Indian passports, 12 Sri Lankan passports and machines used to prepare them and cash of Rs 85,000.

Police unearth fake passport racket in Tamil Nadu

After two rounds of <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/our-alliance-with-nitish-kumar-will-continue-in-bihar-amit-shah--151151">cordial meeting between BJP chief Amit Shah and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar</a>, leaders of the two parties are upbeat about amicably finding a seat-sharing formula for the next Lok Sabha election.

Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi, who was present during the meetings on Thursday, said on Twitter in Hindi that the opposition was in a "danger zone" because of the increase in comfort level of the National Democratic Alliance.

Modi said that this has sent a message to booth-level workers of both the parties to work unitedly to achieve success on all 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar in 2019 general elections.

Also, JD(U) spokespersons now appear to have toned down their party's claim to a lion's share of the 40 seats since the meetings. Instead, they now lay emphasis on a broad and cordial understanding the two leaders have been able to reach.

JD(U) spokesman Sanjay Singh said that seat-sharing will not be a problem "when we share cordial vibes".

State BJP leaders, including C P Thakur, also appear to accept the key place the JD(U) enjoys in the NDA in Bihar.

On Thursday in Patna, Shah said that the NDA was as strong as ever. In a possible signal to state BJP leaders, he said that only TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu has left the NDA since 2014 but Kumar has re-joined it to strengthen the alliance.

With the issue of seat-sharing being discussed at the highest levels, state leaders have refrained from speaking out of turn.

On condition of anonymity, some of them, however, say that Shah is likely to first discuss seat-sharing issues with Ram Vilas Paswan-led LJP and Upendra Kushwaha-led RLSP to understand the possibility of the alliance winning the maximum number of seats.

In 2014, LJP won six seats while RLSP had three MPs.

Sources in the BJP say Shah is likely to have detailed discussions on seat sharing with Kumar only after that.

Stress would be given on ensuring optimum return for the NDA rather than on projecting any of the NDA constituents as a senior partner, the sources say.

Sources in BJP and JD(U) assert that this approach would enable them to reach a mutually acceptable and respectable solution.

The BJP chief is likely to visit Bihar again in November to interact with booth-level party workers, while JD(U)'s programmes to galvanize its workers are already under way.&nbsp

Modi said that this has sent a message to booth-level workers of both the parties to work unitedly to achieve success on all 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar in 2019 general elections

After two rounds of cordial meeting between BJP chief Amit Shah and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar, leaders of the two parties are upbeat about amicably finding a seat-sharing formula for the next Lok Sabha election. Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi, who was present during the meetings on Thursday, said on Twitter in Hindi that the opposition was in a "danger zone" because of the increase in comfort level of the National Democratic Alliance. Modi said that this has sent a message to booth-level workers of both the parties to work unitedly to achieve success on all 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar in 2019 general elections. Also, JD(U) spokespersons now appear to have toned down their party's claim to a lion's share of the 40 seats since the meetings. Instead, they now lay emphasis on a broad and cordial understanding the two leaders have been able to reach. JD(U) spokesman Sanjay Singh said that seat-sharing will not be a problem "when we share cordial vibes". State BJP leaders, including C P Thakur, also appear to accept the key place the JD(U) enjoys in the NDA in Bihar. On Thursday in Patna, Shah said that the NDA was as strong as ever. In a possible signal to state BJP leaders, he said that only TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu has left the NDA since 2014 but Kumar has re-joined it to strengthen the alliance. With the issue of seat-sharing being discussed at the highest levels, state leaders have refrained from speaking out of turn. On condition of anonymity, some of them, however, say that Shah is likely to first discuss seat-sharing issues with Ram Vilas Paswan-led LJP and Upendra Kushwaha-led RLSP to understand the possibility of the alliance winning the maximum number of seats. In 2014, LJP won six seats while RLSP had three MPs. Sources in the BJP say Shah is likely to have detailed discussions on seat sharing with Kumar only after that. Stress would be given on ensuring optimum return for the NDA rather than on projecting any of the NDA constituents as a senior partner, the sources say. Sources in BJP and JD(U) assert that this approach would enable them to reach a mutually acceptable and respectable solution. The BJP chief is likely to visit Bihar again in November to interact with booth-level party workers, while JD(U)'s programmes to galvanize its workers are already under way.

After Shah-Nitish meetings, BJP and JD(U) upbeat about amicably solving seat-sharing issues

A total lunar eclipse will occur on July 27-28 with a totality duration of 1 hour 43 minutes, the longest in this century, the Ministry of Earth Sciences said yesterday. 
The partial eclipse of the Moon will begin at 11:54 pm (Indian Standard Time) on July 27. The Moon will be gradually covered by the Earth's shadow and the totality phase will begin at 1 am on July 28.

The total eclipse will last up to 2.43 hours. Then the Moon will start to gradually come out of Earth's shadow and partial eclipse will end at 3:49 am IST on July 28.

In this particular eclipse, the Moon will pass through the central part of the Earth's umbral shadow. Furthermore, the Moon will be at apogee, the farthest from the Earth in its orbit, on July 27 and will be moving at a slower speed in its orbit.

This slower moving full Moon will take longer time and greater distance of Earth's umbral shadow cone to travel.

"A total lunar eclipse will occur on July 27-28 with a totality duration of 1 hour 43 minutes. The duration makes it the longest total lunar eclipse of this century (2001 AD to 2100 AD)," a statement by the MoES said.

Such long duration of total lunar eclipses had earlier occurred on July 16, 2000 for totality duration of 1 hour 46 minutes and another one on June 15, 2011 for totality duration of 1 hour 40 minutes.

The entire eclipse will also be visible from all parts of India. The eclipse will also be visible in the region covering Australia, Asia, Russia -- except the northern part, Africa, Europe, east of South America and Antarctica.

On July 27, the red planet Mars, will also be at opposition, meaning that the Sun and Mars will lie opposite to each other, with the Earth in the middle.

This will result in Mars coming close to the Earth, causing it to appear brighter than normal and it will be seen from evening to dawn towards the end of July. The brighter Mars will remain very close to the eclipsed Moon in the sky on July 27-28 and can be spotted very easily with the naked eye.

However, the red planet will reach closest to the Earth on July 31. The planet Mars comes at opposition at an average interval of 2 years and 2 months when the planet comes close to the Earth and becomes brighter.

Mars opposition that had occurred in August 2003 brought the two planets at the closest distance in approximately 60,000 years. The approach of Mars on July 31 will bring the two planets closest and the planet Mars to be seen brightest since 2003.

The total eclipse will last up to 2.43 hours. Then the Moon will start to gradually come out of Earth's shadow and partial eclipse will end at 3:49 am IST on July 28.

A total lunar eclipse will occur on July 27-28 with a totality duration of 1 hour 43 minutes, the longest in this century, the Ministry of Earth Sciences said yesterday. The partial eclipse of the Moon will begin at 11:54 pm (Indian Standard Time) on July 27. The Moon will be gradually covered by the Earth's shadow and the totality phase will begin at 1 am on July 28. The total eclipse will last up to 2.43 hours. Then the Moon will start to gradually come out of Earth's shadow and partial eclipse will end at 3:49 am IST on July 28. In this particular eclipse, the Moon will pass through the central part of the Earth's umbral shadow. Furthermore, the Moon will be at apogee, the farthest from the Earth in its orbit, on July 27 and will be moving at a slower speed in its orbit. This slower moving full Moon will take longer time and greater distance of Earth's umbral shadow cone to travel. "A total lunar eclipse will occur on July 27-28 with a totality duration of 1 hour 43 minutes. The duration makes it the longest total lunar eclipse of this century (2001 AD to 2100 AD)," a statement by the MoES said. Such long duration of total lunar eclipses had earlier occurred on July 16, 2000 for totality duration of 1 hour 46 minutes and another one on June 15, 2011 for totality duration of 1 hour 40 minutes. The entire eclipse will also be visible from all parts of India. The eclipse will also be visible in the region covering Australia, Asia, Russia -- except the northern part, Africa, Europe, east of South America and Antarctica. On July 27, the red planet Mars, will also be at opposition, meaning that the Sun and Mars will lie opposite to each other, with the Earth in the middle. This will result in Mars coming close to the Earth, causing it to appear brighter than normal and it will be seen from evening to dawn towards the end of July. The brighter Mars will remain very close to the eclipsed Moon in the sky on July 27-28 and can be spotted very easily with the naked eye. However, the red planet will reach closest to the Earth on July 31. The planet Mars comes at opposition at an average interval of 2 years and 2 months when the planet comes close to the Earth and becomes brighter. Mars opposition that had occurred in August 2003 brought the two planets at the closest distance in approximately 60,000 years. The approach of Mars on July 31 will bring the two planets closest and the planet Mars to be seen brightest since 2003.

Century's longest Lunar Eclipse to take place on July 27-28

National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah said today that the Congress's tweet about Prime Minister Narendra Modi and incarcerated former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif was disappointing.

"There are a lot of things I will be critical of PM Modi for but attempting to repair India's relations with Pakistan is certainly not one of them. I'm not even getting into the internal politics of Pakistan that makes this tweet even more disappointing," Abdullah said in a tweet.

The Congress had posted a photograph of Modi and Sharif walking hand in hand on micro-blogging site Twitter and sought to know what the prime minister thinks of his former Pakistani counterpart, who was arrested in a corruption case.

"Nawaz Sharif has been arrested on corruption charges. We'd like to know what his dear friend, PM Modi has to say about this," the Congress tweeted.

The former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister also lashed out at BJP activists for burning effigies of PDP president Mehbooba Mufti in Jammu.

"It didn't matter when army establishments were attacked all over Jammu, soldiers kidnapped & killed, Amarnath yatris & tourists killed but suddenly @MehboobaMufti is enemy number one. The BJP thinks people are fools & won't punish their selective memory," he said in another tweet.

The Congress had posted a photograph of Modi and Sharif walking hand in hand on micro-blogging site Twitter and sought to know what the prime minister thinks of his former Pakistani counterpart

National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah said today that the Congress's tweet about Prime Minister Narendra Modi and incarcerated former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif was disappointing. "There are a lot of things I will be critical of PM Modi for but attempting to repair India's relations with Pakistan is certainly not one of them. I'm not even getting into the internal politics of Pakistan that makes this tweet even more disappointing," Abdullah said in a tweet. The Congress had posted a photograph of Modi and Sharif walking hand in hand on micro-blogging site Twitter and sought to know what the prime minister thinks of his former Pakistani counterpart, who was arrested in a corruption case. "Nawaz Sharif has been arrested on corruption charges. We'd like to know what his dear friend, PM Modi has to say about this," the Congress tweeted. The former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister also lashed out at BJP activists for burning effigies of PDP president Mehbooba Mufti in Jammu. "It didn't matter when army establishments were attacked all over Jammu, soldiers kidnapped & killed, Amarnath yatris & tourists killed but suddenly @MehboobaMufti is enemy number one. The BJP thinks people are fools & won't punish their selective memory," he said in another tweet.

Omar Abdullah hits out at Congress on its tweet about PM Modi, Sharif

Nearly a month after being <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/kerala-cm-pinarayi-vijayan-denied-appointment-with-pm-modi-for-fourth-time-146253">denied permission by the PMO</a> to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, an all-party delegation, led by <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/pm-ignoring-kerala-cm-pinarayi-vijayan-146539">Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan</a> has been granted an appointment on July 19 RPT July 19.

The Chief Minister's office&nbspconfirmed on Saturday in Thiruvananthapuram that they received a communication from the PMO.

Vijayan, currently on a two-week-long US Tour, would arrive in Thiruvananthapuram on July 18 and leave for New Delhi later to meet Modi along with an all-party delegation, they said.

The delegation would appraise Modi about the need to enhance the allocation of Kerala's foodgrains quota and apprehensions over the much-awaited Kanjikode Coach Factory in Palakkad district, besides a host of other development issues pertaining to the southern state, the CMO said.

Among ministers, state Public Works Minister G Sudhakaran and Food and Civil Supplies Minister P Thilothaman would be among the delegation along with the Chief Minister and representatives of other major political parties, they said.

Kicking up a political row, an all-party delegation led by CPI(M)-led LDF government headed byPinarayi Vijayan, had been denied permission to meet Modi in June.

The PMO had said they could meet Food and Public Distribution Minister Ram Vilas Paswan to discuss the foodgrains quota issue.

Coming down heavily on the Centre, Vijayan, in a press conference in New Delhi, had accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of consistently ignoring Kerala and its demands.

The Kerala Chief Minister had also alleged the Centre was not paying heed to the country's federal structure.

"The Prime Minister has been ignoring Kerala. The Centre's aversion to Kerala's demands is leading to the collapse of several industries in the state.

When we needed to see the PM and submit our requests, we were not allowed to do so," Vijayan had said.

The Congress-led UDF opposition had also extended support to Vijayan and alleged that the Centre was playing politics without granting appointment to the state delegation.

Vijayan, currently on a two-week-long US Tour, would arrive in Thiruvananthapuram on July 18 and leave for New Delhi later to meet Modi along with an all-party delegation

Nearly a month after being denied permission by the PMO to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, an all-party delegation, led by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has been granted an appointment on July 19 RPT July 19. The Chief Minister's office&nbspconfirmed on Saturday in Thiruvananthapuram that they received a communication from the PMO. Vijayan, currently on a two-week-long US Tour, would arrive in Thiruvananthapuram on July 18 and leave for New Delhi later to meet Modi along with an all-party delegation, they said. The delegation would appraise Modi about the need to enhance the allocation of Kerala's foodgrains quota and apprehensions over the much-awaited Kanjikode Coach Factory in Palakkad district, besides a host of other development issues pertaining to the southern state, the CMO said. Among ministers, state Public Works Minister G Sudhakaran and Food and Civil Supplies Minister P Thilothaman would be among the delegation along with the Chief Minister and representatives of other major political parties, they said. Kicking up a political row, an all-party delegation led by CPI(M)-led LDF government headed byPinarayi Vijayan, had been denied permission to meet Modi in June. The PMO had said they could meet Food and Public Distribution Minister Ram Vilas Paswan to discuss the foodgrains quota issue. Coming down heavily on the Centre, Vijayan, in a press conference in New Delhi, had accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of consistently ignoring Kerala and its demands. The Kerala Chief Minister had also alleged the Centre was not paying heed to the country's federal structure. "The Prime Minister has been ignoring Kerala. The Centre's aversion to Kerala's demands is leading to the collapse of several industries in the state. When we needed to see the PM and submit our requests, we were not allowed to do so," Vijayan had said. The Congress-led UDF opposition had also extended support to Vijayan and alleged that the Centre was playing politics without granting appointment to the state delegation.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan led delegation gets appointment to meet Modi on July 19

Bhartiya Janta Party President Amit Shah on Friday claimed that the construction of the Ram Temple at Ayodhya will commence before the 2019 elections, reports said.&nbsp

His remarks came during a meeting which he held with his party members in Hyderabad, saying that there will be necessary actions taken towards launching the construction before the polls next year.

Interacting with nearly 30 leaders of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) working at various levels in the state at a private hotel in Friday, he said the party is committed to the construction of the Ram Temple and expressed the confidence that necessary circumstances would emerge once the Apex court gave its judgment on the issue pending before it.&nbsp

The BJP leader reportedly sought to consolidate the voters of Hindu faith against those of the minorities who are substantial in number in Telangana, by raising the temple issue.

Shah has been a day-long visit to Hyderabad to talk about ways to bring the party to power in the state.&nbsp

Earlier, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the temple will be constructed before 2019 general elections and they shouldn't doubt Bharatiya Janata Party's intentions.

His remarks came during a meeting which he held with his party members in Hyderabad, saying that there will be necessary actions taken towards launching the construction before the polls next year.

Bhartiya Janta Party President Amit Shah on Friday claimed that the construction of the Ram Temple at Ayodhya will commence before the 2019 elections, reports said. His remarks came during a meeting which he held with his party members in Hyderabad, saying that there will be necessary actions taken towards launching the construction before the polls next year. Interacting with nearly 30 leaders of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) working at various levels in the state at a private hotel in Friday, he said the party is committed to the construction of the Ram Temple and expressed the confidence that necessary circumstances would emerge once the Apex court gave its judgment on the issue pending before it. The BJP leader reportedly sought to consolidate the voters of Hindu faith against those of the minorities who are substantial in number in Telangana, by raising the temple issue. Shah has been a day-long visit to Hyderabad to talk about ways to bring the party to power in the state. Earlier, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the temple will be constructed before 2019 general elections and they shouldn't doubt Bharatiya Janata Party's intentions.

Will build Ram Temple in Ayodhya before 2019 elections, says Amit Shah

Minority Affairs Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi today said the government does not want to "shut the doors of madrasas", but it wants to open their doors for mainstream education.

Naqvi made the remarks at an event in Delhi to distribute certificates to the students who have been successful in a 'Bridge Course', jointly conducted by the Ministry of Minority Affairs and the Jamia Millia Islamia, for school dropouts and those studying in madrasas.

A statement issued by the minister's office quoted him as saying that the government's "3T"&nbsp-- Teacher, Tiffin & Toilet -- formula to bring minority youths into mainstream education has been a tremendous success.

The government does not want to "shut down the doors of Madrasas", it only wants to "open their doors for formal and mainstream education," Naqvi was quoted.&nbsp

He said that steps taken by the Modi government for the educational empowerment of the needy sections of the society, including the minorities, have ensured that the youths belonging to the minority communities are getting better jobs through quality education.

In the past about one year, thousands of educational institutions of all minority communities, including madarsas, have been included in the mainstream education system by connecting them with the 'Teacher, Tiffin, Toilet' campaign, Naqvi said.

He said the school dropout rate among Muslim girls, which was earlier more than 70 per cent, has now been reduced to about 35 per cent due to the educational empowerment programmes of the government.

Naqvi said that during the last four years, 2.66 crore students belonging to the poor and weaker sections among minorities have benefitted from various scholarships.

More than 5.43 lakh youths have been provided employment and employment opportunities through job-oriented skill development schemes, he said.

Naqvi handed out the certificates to the students successful in the bridge course.

The Ministry of Minority Affairs, in collaboration with the Jamia Millia Islamia University, had started the nine-months "bridge course"&nbspto bring madrasa students and school dropouts into mainstream education system.

This year, a total of 260 students had been trained under the course out of which 182 students successfully completed the course.

Naqvi said the Ministry of Minority Affairs has also started a training programme to link madrasa teachers with the mainstream education system.

Minority Affairs Ministry Secretary A Luikham, Aligarh Muslim University Vice Chancellor Tariq Mansoor Chairman Guru Harkishan Public School Society S Manjit Singh GK and representative of Diocese of Delhi-Church of North India Bishop Collin Theodore, were among those present at the event.

Naqvi made the remarks at an event in Delhi to distribute certificates to the students who have been successful in a 'Bridge Course', jointly conducted by the Ministry of Minority Affairs and the Jamia Millia Islamia, for school dropouts and those studying in madrasas

Minority Affairs Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi today said the government does not want to "shut the doors of madrasas", but it wants to open their doors for mainstream education. Naqvi made the remarks at an event in Delhi to distribute certificates to the students who have been successful in a 'Bridge Course', jointly conducted by the Ministry of Minority Affairs and the Jamia Millia Islamia, for school dropouts and those studying in madrasas. A statement issued by the minister's office quoted him as saying that the government's "3T" -- Teacher, Tiffin & Toilet -- formula to bring minority youths into mainstream education has been a tremendous success. The government does not want to "shut down the doors of Madrasas", it only wants to "open their doors for formal and mainstream education," Naqvi was quoted. He said that steps taken by the Modi government for the educational empowerment of the needy sections of the society, including the minorities, have ensured that the youths belonging to the minority communities are getting better jobs through quality education. In the past about one year, thousands of educational institutions of all minority communities, including madarsas, have been included in the mainstream education system by connecting them with the 'Teacher, Tiffin, Toilet' campaign, Naqvi said. He said the school dropout rate among Muslim girls, which was earlier more than 70 per cent, has now been reduced to about 35 per cent due to the educational empowerment programmes of the government. Naqvi said that during the last four years, 2.66 crore students belonging to the poor and weaker sections among minorities have benefitted from various scholarships. More than 5.43 lakh youths have been provided employment and employment opportunities through job-oriented skill development schemes, he said. Naqvi handed out the certificates to the students successful in the bridge course. The Ministry of Minority Affairs, in collaboration with the Jamia Millia Islamia University, had started the nine-months "bridge course"&nbspto bring madrasa students and school dropouts into mainstream education system. This year, a total of 260 students had been trained under the course out of which 182 students successfully completed the course. Naqvi said the Ministry of Minority Affairs has also started a training programme to link madrasa teachers with the mainstream education system. Minority Affairs Ministry Secretary A Luikham, Aligarh Muslim University Vice Chancellor Tariq Mansoor Chairman Guru Harkishan Public School Society S Manjit Singh GK and representative of Diocese of Delhi-Church of North India Bishop Collin Theodore, were among those present at the event.

Government wants to open doors of madrasas for mainstream education: Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-hits-out-at-congress-says-is-party-only-for-muslim-men-151633">PM Modi slams Congress on triple talaq, asks if it's a party for Muslim men alone</a>

Targetting the Congress party for its support to the Triple Talaq, Prime Minister Modi on Saturday said, "Is the Congress party only for Muslim men or for women too?"

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/explosion-heard-in-somali-capital-mogadishu-followed-by-gunfire-151613">6 killed after al-Shabab terrorists target Somalia's presidential palace</a>

The sound of an explosion was heard across the Somali capital Mogadishu on Saturday followed by gunfire, reports witnessed. Six people died so far in the attack at Somalia's Presenditial place.

<a href="http://wionews.com/business-%26-economy/india-expected-to-be-10-trillion-economy-by-2030-economic-affairs-secretary-151643">India expected to be $10 trillion </a><a href="http://wionews.com/business-%26-economy/india-expected-to-be-10-trillion-economy-by-2030-economic-affairs-secretary-151643">economy</a><a href="http://wionews.com/business-%26-economy/india-expected-to-be-10-trillion-economy-by-2030-economic-affairs-secretary-151643"> by 2030: Economic affairs secretary</a>

Indian economy is on a stage of “take off” and is expected to be the world’s third largest by 2030 with gross domestic product (GDP) worth $10 trillion, economic affairs secretary Subhash Chandra Garg said on Saturday.

<a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/fears-of-more-violence-in-pakistan-election-after-bomber-kills-130-151658">Fears of more violence in Pakistan election after bomber kills 130</a>

A week of bombings on political rallies has shattered the relative peace of Pakistan's general election campaign, culminating in a devastating suicide attack that killed at least 130 people at a rally in the southwestern Baluchistan province.

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/trump-questions-why-obama-did-not-act-on-claims-of-russian-election-meddling-151629">Trump questions why Obama did not act on claims of Russian election meddling</a>

US President Donald Trump on Saturday questioned why Barack Obama's administration did not act on allegations of Russian meddling in the US 2016 presidential election.

PM Modi slams Congress on triple talaq, asks if it's a party for Muslim men alone Targetting the Congress party for its support to the Triple Talaq, Prime Minister Modi on Saturday said, "Is the Congress party only for Muslim men or for women too?" 6 killed after al-Shabab terrorists target Somalia's presidential palace The sound of an explosion was heard across the Somali capital Mogadishu on Saturday followed by gunfire, reports witnessed. Six people died so far in the attack at Somalia's Presenditial place. India expected to be $10 trillion economy by 2030: Economic affairs secretary Indian economy is on a stage of “take off” and is expected to be the world’s third largest by 2030 with gross domestic product (GDP) worth $10 trillion, economic affairs secretary Subhash Chandra Garg said on Saturday. Fears of more violence in Pakistan election after bomber kills 130 A week of bombings on political rallies has shattered the relative peace of Pakistan's general election campaign, culminating in a devastating suicide attack that killed at least 130 people at a rally in the southwestern Baluchistan province. Trump questions why Obama did not act on claims of Russian election meddling US President Donald Trump on Saturday questioned why Barack Obama's administration did not act on allegations of Russian meddling in the US 2016 presidential election.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Targetting the Congress party for its support to the Triple Talaq, Prime Minister Modi on Saturday said, "Is the Congress party only for Muslim men or for women too?"

PM Modi said, "I have read in newspaper that Congress President has said that Congress is a party of Muslims, I am not surprised by this. All I want to ask is, is their party only for Muslim men or for women too? On one side the Centre is trying to make the lives of women easy, on the other side these people have grouped together to make the lives of women, especially Muslim women, difficult".

PM Modi was addressing people in Azamgarh while laying&nbsp;the foundation stone for the Purvanchal Expressway in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh on Saturday.

He said&nbsp;more than Rs 23,000 crore will be spent on the project and the&nbsp;Expressway&nbsp;will take UP, especially Eastern UP, to greater heights.

He also added that it will also benefit the cities, towns and places falling in the route.

Commending the chief minister of the state the PM said, "BJP government&nbsp;is working to create an environment of development in UP. What Yogi ji did towards putting a check on crime and corruption, bringing investments to the state and making business easier for small traders, is commendable."

He further said,&nbsp;"We are working on not only highway but also waterway and airway. Ships sailing from Varanasi to Haldia will take this entire region ahead on the path of industrial development. 12 airports are being developed under UDAN scheme".

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PM Modi was addressing people in Azamgarh while laying the foundation stone for the Purvanchal Expressway in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh on Saturday

Targetting the Congress party for its support to the Triple Talaq, Prime Minister Modi on Saturday said, "Is the Congress party only for Muslim men or for women too?" PM Modi said, "I have read in newspaper that Congress President has said that Congress is a party of Muslims, I am not surprised by this. All I want to ask is, is their party only for Muslim men or for women too? On one side the Centre is trying to make the lives of women easy, on the other side these people have grouped together to make the lives of women, especially Muslim women, difficult". PM Modi was addressing people in Azamgarh while laying the foundation stone for the Purvanchal Expressway in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh on Saturday. He said more than Rs 23,000 crore will be spent on the project and the Expressway will take UP, especially Eastern UP, to greater heights. He also added that it will also benefit the cities, towns and places falling in the route. Commending the chief minister of the state the PM said, "BJP government is working to create an environment of development in UP. What Yogi ji did towards putting a check on crime and corruption, bringing investments to the state and making business easier for small traders, is commendable." He further said, "We are working on not only highway but also waterway and airway. Ships sailing from Varanasi to Haldia will take this entire region ahead on the path of industrial development. 12 airports are being developed under UDAN scheme". PM Narendra Modi lays the foundation stone of Purvanchal Expressway in Azamgarh. pic.twitter.com/RdVxoPBVIC — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) July 14, 2018 ×

PM Modi slams Congress on triple talaq, asks if it's a party for Muslim men alone

A day after Mehbooba Mufti's comment claiming that the Centre was trying to break her party, BJP National General Secretary Ram Madhav has said that her accusations were based on &nbsp"lies".

He said that instead of resolving the internal conflicts, the party was threatening in the name of terrorism.&nbsp

Madhav said, "What Mehbooba ji said yesterday is unfortunate and based on lies. No one in Delhi is trying to break their party. Instead of solving their internal conflicts they are blaming Delhi and threatening in name of terrorism. As far as BJP is concerned,we are not trying to break any party".

He further added that the Centre had the power to neutralise all the terrorists.

"As far as the threat over 'Salahuddin' is concerned, the Central government and security forces have the power to neutralise all the terrorists who are in the valley and those might turn to terrorism due to Mehbooba ji", he added.

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti, had warned the Centre&nbspthat any attempt to break the PDP will have a “very dangerous” outcome.

Responding to Shashi Tharoor over his "Hindu Pakistan" comments, he said "Tharoor ji neither understands Pak nor Hindus properly. Therefore he's talking about 'Hindu Pakistan'.&nbsp

He also said that, "Modi government will be there for next 5 years too, India will stay India and a proud developed nation".

Ram Madhav said, 'What Mehbooba ji said yesterday is unfortunate and based on lies. No one in Delhi is trying to break their party. Instead of solving their internal conflicts they are blaming Delhi and threatening in name of terrorism. As far as BJP is concerned,we are not trying to break any party'

A day after Mehbooba Mufti's comment claiming that the Centre was trying to break her party, BJP National General Secretary Ram Madhav has said that her accusations were based on "lies". He said that instead of resolving the internal conflicts, the party was threatening in the name of terrorism. Madhav said, "What Mehbooba ji said yesterday is unfortunate and based on lies. No one in Delhi is trying to break their party. Instead of solving their internal conflicts they are blaming Delhi and threatening in name of terrorism. As far as BJP is concerned,we are not trying to break any party". He further added that the Centre had the power to neutralise all the terrorists. "As far as the threat over 'Salahuddin' is concerned, the Central government and security forces have the power to neutralise all the terrorists who are in the valley and those might turn to terrorism due to Mehbooba ji", he added. Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti, had warned the Centre&nbspthat any attempt to break the PDP will have a “very dangerous” outcome. Responding to Shashi Tharoor over his "Hindu Pakistan" comments, he said "Tharoor ji neither understands Pak nor Hindus properly. Therefore he's talking about 'Hindu Pakistan'. He also said that, "Modi government will be there for next 5 years too, India will stay India and a proud developed nation".

Mehbooba Mufti's claim based on lies,BJP not trying to break any party: Ram Madhav

Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar said on Saturday that the duty he carried out as defence minister could be considered a repayment of the "loan" his state owed to India's armed forces for its liberation from the Portuguese.

"India is becoming stronger...And the most important aspect was the surgical strike. That was of course done by the armed forces, but a political decision was taken with the help and support of the prime minister, which was required," Parrikar said in response to a question.

"So I have done my duty for the nation. Probably, that was a loan that Goa owed, that needed to be paid back. The Indian Army liberated the state (on December 19, 1961)... I think that was a debt which needed to be paid back," he said during an on-stage interaction after inaugurating the Goa Information Technology (IT) Day here.

In December 1961, military action was taken to evict the Portuguese rulers out of the enclaves of Goa, Diu and Daman. This involved the tri-services operations with the Army, Navy and Air Force acting against the Portuguese troops.

Parrikar said he returned to Goa after last year's state assembly elections because his heart was here.

"I went to Delhi because I was needed (there) for some time. But when it came to the matters of Goa, I decided that my destination is Goa. Right from the beginning, I never thought of going to Delhi, I was asked to come there.

"I did my job pretty well. I am satisfied with it. Lot of things have been done during my tenure as defence minister which are now ensuring that...'Make In India' for example was one of the best," he said.

"Tejas fighter aircraft was produced because of my efforts. It was not going anywhere. Fighter helicopter version has been developed during my tenure. There are so many things, I can't list them," he added.

Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad will unveil the IT Policy tomorrow as part of the two-day Goa IT Day.

'India is becoming stronger...And the most important aspect was the surgical strike. That was of course done by the armed forces, but a political decision was taken with the help and support of the prime minister, which was required,' Parrikar said in response to a question

Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar said on Saturday that the duty he carried out as defence minister could be considered a repayment of the "loan" his state owed to India's armed forces for its liberation from the Portuguese. "India is becoming stronger...And the most important aspect was the surgical strike. That was of course done by the armed forces, but a political decision was taken with the help and support of the prime minister, which was required," Parrikar said in response to a question. "So I have done my duty for the nation. Probably, that was a loan that Goa owed, that needed to be paid back. The Indian Army liberated the state (on December 19, 1961)... I think that was a debt which needed to be paid back," he said during an on-stage interaction after inaugurating the Goa Information Technology (IT) Day here. In December 1961, military action was taken to evict the Portuguese rulers out of the enclaves of Goa, Diu and Daman. This involved the tri-services operations with the Army, Navy and Air Force acting against the Portuguese troops. Parrikar said he returned to Goa after last year's state assembly elections because his heart was here. "I went to Delhi because I was needed (there) for some time. But when it came to the matters of Goa, I decided that my destination is Goa. Right from the beginning, I never thought of going to Delhi, I was asked to come there. "I did my job pretty well. I am satisfied with it. Lot of things have been done during my tenure as defence minister which are now ensuring that...'Make In India' for example was one of the best," he said. "Tejas fighter aircraft was produced because of my efforts. It was not going anywhere. Fighter helicopter version has been developed during my tenure. There are so many things, I can't list them," he added. Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad will unveil the IT Policy tomorrow as part of the two-day Goa IT Day.

Goa needed to repay 'loan' to Army, did my part as defence minister: Manohar Parrikar

Rejecting the accusation that Mehbooba Mufti government had discriminated against Jammu and Ladakh, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday said the BJP has perhaps forgotten that it was an equal partner in the coalition.

"The claim of BJP that Jammu and Ladakh suffered neglect of any sort is not based on facts. Kashmir valley deserved special attention due to the 2014 deluge which caused huge damage to infrastructure and the (PDP-BJP) government paid attention to it in the first year of its rule,"&nbspPDP General Secretary Ved Mahajan said.

He was addressing a meeting of district and zone presidents of Jammu which was convened here in the view of foundation day celebrations of the party on July 28.

Mahajan said equitable development of all the three regions had remained a top priority of the Mufti government and Jammu and Ladakh were equally benefited.

"It is ironical that while trying to hide their own faults, the BJP leadership is arguing about the less development in Jammu. Perhaps they have forgotten that their party (BJP) was an equal partner in the coalition and the party ministers were holding key portfolios,"&nbsphe said.

Mahajan said the PDP had worked to present Jammu and Kashmir as a composite state and not let anyone fragment it on any grounds.&nbsp

In his address, party's chief coordinator Choudhary Abdul Hamid said the foundation of PDP was laid on the principle of restoration of peace and to end the enmity between India and Pakistan.

He said the PDP was ready to sacrifice the government thousand times if it is for safeguarding the interests of the people and save them from "tyrannical times".

"Come what may, we will not barter our principles and the people of the state are witness to the fact that our party president (Mehooba Mufti) did not compromise on her stand and always stood for peace, reconciliation and amnesty,"&nbspChoudhary said.

He said the party is proud of the "reasons for which BJP pulled out from the coalition government, whether it is the demand for dialogue, ceasefire or withdrawal of cases against first time stone-pelters".

"The party ahead of the formation of government sought assurance from the central government over holding talks with Hurriyat and Pakistan for the timely resolution of the long pending Kashmir issue."

"The government of India's positive response to the pleas of the chief minister is a remarkable achievement for the people of the state as the Union government not only helped her usher a new era of development but was also at the forefront of ensuring a peaceful solution," he said.

PDP General Secretary Ved Mahajan said equitable development of all the three regions had remained a top priority of the Mufti government and Jammu and Ladakh were equally benefited

Rejecting the accusation that Mehbooba Mufti government had discriminated against Jammu and Ladakh, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday said the BJP has perhaps forgotten that it was an equal partner in the coalition. "The claim of BJP that Jammu and Ladakh suffered neglect of any sort is not based on facts. Kashmir valley deserved special attention due to the 2014 deluge which caused huge damage to infrastructure and the (PDP-BJP) government paid attention to it in the first year of its rule,"&nbspPDP General Secretary Ved Mahajan said. He was addressing a meeting of district and zone presidents of Jammu which was convened here in the view of foundation day celebrations of the party on July 28. Mahajan said equitable development of all the three regions had remained a top priority of the Mufti government and Jammu and Ladakh were equally benefited. "It is ironical that while trying to hide their own faults, the BJP leadership is arguing about the less development in Jammu. Perhaps they have forgotten that their party (BJP) was an equal partner in the coalition and the party ministers were holding key portfolios,"&nbsphe said. Mahajan said the PDP had worked to present Jammu and Kashmir as a composite state and not let anyone fragment it on any grounds. In his address, party's chief coordinator Choudhary Abdul Hamid said the foundation of PDP was laid on the principle of restoration of peace and to end the enmity between India and Pakistan. He said the PDP was ready to sacrifice the government thousand times if it is for safeguarding the interests of the people and save them from "tyrannical times". "Come what may, we will not barter our principles and the people of the state are witness to the fact that our party president (Mehooba Mufti) did not compromise on her stand and always stood for peace, reconciliation and amnesty,"&nbspChoudhary said. He said the party is proud of the "reasons for which BJP pulled out from the coalition government, whether it is the demand for dialogue, ceasefire or withdrawal of cases against first time stone-pelters". "The party ahead of the formation of government sought assurance from the central government over holding talks with Hurriyat and Pakistan for the timely resolution of the long pending Kashmir issue." "The government of India's positive response to the pleas of the chief minister is a remarkable achievement for the people of the state as the Union government not only helped her usher a new era of development but was also at the forefront of ensuring a peaceful solution," he said.

No discrimination with Jammu and Ladakh: PDP leader

President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday announced the nominations to the Rajya Sabha - the Upper House of Parliament in an exercise of the powers conferred by Article 80 of the Constitution of India, and on the advice of the Prime Minister.

The nominations include farmer leader Ram Shakal, author and columnist Rakesh Sinha, sculptor Raghunath Mohapatra and classical dancer Sonal Mansingh.

Rakesh Sinha is the Founder and Honorary Director of the Delhi-based think-tank “India Policy Foundation.” He is also currently a member of the Indian Council of Social Science Research. Singh is a regular columnist in a number of newspaper.

Raghunath Mohapatra is a famous sculptor who has trained thousands of students. His famous works include a 6 feet high statue of the Sun God carved in grey sandstone, in the Central Hall of Parliament; and the Wooden Buddha, Buddha Temple, Paris.

Sonal Mansingh is one the most renowned figure of the Indian Classical Dance and has been performing Bharatnatyam and Odissi for over six decades. She founded the Centre for Indian Classical Dances, in Delhi in 1977.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Ram Shakal is a farmer leader from Uttar Pradesh and has been widely respected for fighting for farmers cause, laborers and migrants. He has also been a three-time Member of Parliament, representing Robertsganj constituency of Uttar Pradesh.

The nominees will replace sportsman Sachin Tendulkar, actor Rekha, businesswoman Anu Agha, and former Attorney General of India K Parasaran.

Article 80(1)(a) read with Article 80(3) of the Constitution of India provides that the President can nominate to Rajya Sabha, 12 persons having special knowledge, or practical experience in respect of literature, science, art and social service.&nbsp;

There were, currently, eight nominated members in the Rajya Sabha, and hence, four vacancies.&nbsp;

Each member is elected for a term of&nbsp;six years.

The nominations include farmer leader Ram Shakal, author and columnist Rakesh Sinha, sculptor Raghunath Mohapatra and classical dancer Sonal Mansingh.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday announced the nominations to the Rajya Sabha - the Upper House of Parliament in an exercise of the powers conferred by Article 80 of the Constitution of India, and on the advice of the Prime Minister. The nominations include farmer leader Ram Shakal, author and columnist Rakesh Sinha, sculptor Raghunath Mohapatra and classical dancer Sonal Mansingh. Rakesh Sinha is the Founder and Honorary Director of the Delhi-based think-tank “India Policy Foundation.” He is also currently a member of the Indian Council of Social Science Research. Singh is a regular columnist in a number of newspaper. Raghunath Mohapatra is a famous sculptor who has trained thousands of students. His famous works include a 6 feet high statue of the Sun God carved in grey sandstone, in the Central Hall of Parliament; and the Wooden Buddha, Buddha Temple, Paris. Sonal Mansingh is one the most renowned figure of the Indian Classical Dance and has been performing Bharatnatyam and Odissi for over six decades. She founded the Centre for Indian Classical Dances, in Delhi in 1977. Ram Shakal is a farmer leader from Uttar Pradesh and has been widely respected for fighting for farmers cause, laborers and migrants. He has also been a three-time Member of Parliament, representing Robertsganj constituency of Uttar Pradesh. The nominees will replace sportsman Sachin Tendulkar, actor Rekha, businesswoman Anu Agha, and former Attorney General of India K Parasaran. Article 80(1)(a) read with Article 80(3) of the Constitution of India provides that the President can nominate to Rajya Sabha, 12 persons having special knowledge, or practical experience in respect of literature, science, art and social service. There were, currently, eight nominated members in the Rajya Sabha, and hence, four vacancies. Each member is elected for a term of six years.

Rakesh Sinha, Sonal Mansingh among four nominated by President to Rajya Sabha

Bhartiya Janata Party workers in Jammu and Kashmir burnt former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti's picture and also demanded her arrest by governor's administration as she threatens the Central Government to create more 'Salahuddins' in Kashmir if anyone attempts to cause a split in her party.&nbsp;

A demonstration was held at the road leading from Kachi Chowani to Civil Secretariat by BJP workers raising slogans against Mufti.&nbsp;

BJP Mahila Morcha's district president Veena Gupta asked Mufti to maintain the dignity of the office of Chief Minister which she had been holding till recently and also restricted her from making anti-national statements.

The BJP leader challenged Mehbooba Mufti to execute her threat, saying that “If you create one Salahuddin, we will send ten Bhagat Singhs from Jammu.”

BJP’s district president Ayudhya Nath demanded to state governor to take action against Mufti for threatening to create terrorists like Salahuddin.&nbsp;

Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti had warned the Centre that any attempt to break the PDP will have a “very dangerous” outcome.

“My party is strong, there are differences which can be resolved… if Delhi tries to dismiss the voting rights of people as in 1987, and if it tries to create divisions, then I believe that just like a Salahuddin and a Yasin Malik were born in 1987… If they try the same thing now and interfere… if it tries to break PDP, then the outcome will be very dangerous,” she had told reporters outside the Martyrs’ Graveyard in Srinagar.

Accusing BJP of breaking PDP MLAs, Mufti on Friday stated that if BJP tries to break PDP, the more Salahuddins and Yasin Maliks will take birth in Kashmir.

Bhartiya Janata Party workers in Jammu and Kashmir burnt former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti's picture and also demanded her arrest by governor's administration as she threatens the Central Government to create more 'Salahuddins' in Kashmir if anyone attempts to cause a split in her party. A demonstration was held at the road leading from Kachi Chowani to Civil Secretariat by BJP workers raising slogans against Mufti. BJP Mahila Morcha's district president Veena Gupta asked Mufti to maintain the dignity of the office of Chief Minister which she had been holding till recently and also restricted her from making anti-national statements. The BJP leader challenged Mehbooba Mufti to execute her threat, saying that “If you create one Salahuddin, we will send ten Bhagat Singhs from Jammu.” BJP’s district president Ayudhya Nath demanded to state governor to take action against Mufti for threatening to create terrorists like Salahuddin. Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti had warned the Centre that any attempt to break the PDP will have a “very dangerous” outcome. “My party is strong, there are differences which can be resolved… if Delhi tries to dismiss the voting rights of people as in 1987, and if it tries to create divisions, then I believe that just like a Salahuddin and a Yasin Malik were born in 1987… If they try the same thing now and interfere… if it tries to break PDP, then the outcome will be very dangerous,” she had told reporters outside the Martyrs’ Graveyard in Srinagar.

If you create one Salahuddin, we will send ten Bhagat Singhs: BJP leader to Mehbooba Mufti

After reports of Amit Shah claiming to build the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-build-ram-temple-in-ayodhya-before-2019-elections-says-amit-shah-151510">Ram Temple</a>&nbsp;in Ayodhya before the 2019 elections surfaced, the BJP on Saturday denied any such remarks.&nbsp;

ANI reported that BJP had said that “no such matter was even on the agenda.”

The BJP's clarification came after hours of controversy over Shah's reported remarks.&nbsp;

"Yesterday in Telangana, BJP President Shri @AmitShah didn't make any statement on the issue of Ram Mandir as being claimed in certain sections of the media. No such matter was even on the agenda," read a tweet from the BJP.&nbsp;

On Friday, reports claimed that the construction of the Ram Temple at Ayodhya will commence before the 2019 elections, reports said.&nbsp;

His remarks came during a meeting which he held with his party members in Hyderabad, saying that there will be necessary actions taken towards launching the construction before the polls next year.

The BJP also sent out its leaders to suggest that Shah had been misquoted.

"Yesterday he said BJP is committed to Ram temple and that now the matter is sub-judice. Personally, he wants it to be made, and hopefully the process may begin before the 2019 polls because of circumstances relating to courts and other aspects," BJP leader NR Rao told news agency ANI.

ANI reported that BJP had said that 'no such matter was even on the agenda.'

After reports of Amit Shah claiming to build the Ram Temple in Ayodhya before the 2019 elections surfaced, the BJP on Saturday denied any such remarks. ANI reported that BJP had said that “no such matter was even on the agenda.” The BJP's clarification came after hours of controversy over Shah's reported remarks. "Yesterday in Telangana, BJP President Shri @AmitShah didn't make any statement on the issue of Ram Mandir as being claimed in certain sections of the media. No such matter was even on the agenda," read a tweet from the BJP. On Friday, reports claimed that the construction of the Ram Temple at Ayodhya will commence before the 2019 elections, reports said. His remarks came during a meeting which he held with his party members in Hyderabad, saying that there will be necessary actions taken towards launching the construction before the polls next year. The BJP also sent out its leaders to suggest that Shah had been misquoted. "Yesterday he said BJP is committed to Ram temple and that now the matter is sub-judice. Personally, he wants it to be made, and hopefully the process may begin before the 2019 polls because of circumstances relating to courts and other aspects," BJP leader NR Rao told news agency ANI.

BJP denies reports of Ram Temple construction ahead of 2019 elections

A day after describing Vijay Mallya as 'smart', Union minister Jual Oram on Saturday went on a damage control mode and said he accidentally took&nbsp;Vijay Mallya's name.

''I accidentally took Vijay Mallya's name. I should have taken someone else's name. It was my mistake,'' Oram was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

Speaking at the maiden National Tribal Entrepreneurs Conclave 2018 in Hyderabad, Minister for Tribal Welfare Jual Oram described fugitive liquor baron Vijay Mallya as 'smart' and advised scheduled castes and tribes to become smart enough to avail bank loans to become successful entrepreneurs.

"We should become entrepreneurs, we should become intelligent. We should become smart. We should gain information. Information is power. Those who possess information, they control power," he reportedly said.

He then went on to say, "You people criticise Vijay Mallya. But what is Vijay Mallya? He is smart. He employed some intelligent people. He did something here and there with bankers, politicians, government." 
"He bought them. Who prevented you (from being smart)? Who asked Adivasis not to influence the system? Who prevented you from influencing bankers," Oram asked.

Mallya, who fled to the UK in March 2016, is currently undergoing an extradition trial in a UK court over fraud and money laundering charges by Indian authorities.

The minister said some of the SC and ST people shy away from disclosing their title or surname fearing disparity in society.

The minister advised them not to do so and told them that these communities would also thrive in running businesses.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi wishes that SC and STs should no longer remain as job-seekers. But they should become job givers. We should fulfil his wish. I as a minister (am) determined on that.

"We will encourage tribal entrepreneurs through various schemes from the government," he added.

More than 1000 tribal entrepreneurs from across the country participated in the NTEC 2018, which was organised by Dalit Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.&nbsp;

Oram described fugitive liquor baron Vijay Mallya as 'smart' and advised scheduled castes and tribes to become smart enough to avail bank loans to become successful entrepreneurs

A day after describing Vijay Mallya as 'smart', Union minister Jual Oram on Saturday went on a damage control mode and said he accidentally took Vijay Mallya's name. ''I accidentally took Vijay Mallya's name. I should have taken someone else's name. It was my mistake,'' Oram was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. Speaking at the maiden National Tribal Entrepreneurs Conclave 2018 in Hyderabad, Minister for Tribal Welfare Jual Oram described fugitive liquor baron Vijay Mallya as 'smart' and advised scheduled castes and tribes to become smart enough to avail bank loans to become successful entrepreneurs. "We should become entrepreneurs, we should become intelligent. We should become smart. We should gain information. Information is power. Those who possess information, they control power," he reportedly said. He then went on to say, "You people criticise Vijay Mallya. But what is Vijay Mallya? He is smart. He employed some intelligent people. He did something here and there with bankers, politicians, government." "He bought them. Who prevented you (from being smart)? Who asked Adivasis not to influence the system? Who prevented you from influencing bankers," Oram asked. Mallya, who fled to the UK in March 2016, is currently undergoing an extradition trial in a UK court over fraud and money laundering charges by Indian authorities. The minister said some of the SC and ST people shy away from disclosing their title or surname fearing disparity in society. The minister advised them not to do so and told them that these communities would also thrive in running businesses. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi wishes that SC and STs should no longer remain as job-seekers. But they should become job givers. We should fulfil his wish. I as a minister (am) determined on that. "We will encourage tribal entrepreneurs through various schemes from the government," he added. More than 1000 tribal entrepreneurs from across the country participated in the NTEC 2018, which was organised by Dalit Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

After describing Mallya as 'smart', Union minister says he 'accidentally' took liquor baron's name

Those accused of rape or eve-teasing will no longer be given state facilities like old-age or disability pension as well as driving or arm licenses till they are acquitted by the court, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said on Thursday.

In case the accused is convicted and sentenced, he would be disentitled to these government facilities for good, he added.

The chief minister made the announcements at a public function organised under the 'Ek Aur Sudhar Programme' at Panchkula near here, reports news agency PTI.

Reiterating his government's commitment to make Haryana the number one state in the country in terms of safety and security of women and girls, Khattar said a comprehensive scheme on the issue would soon be launched either on the Independence Day or on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan.

The chief minister was quoted as saying if a rape victim desired to hire a lawyer of her choice besides the prosecution counsel, she would be given Rs 22,000 for paying the fee to her advocate.

The state would also soon provide uninterrupted and speedy probe in all cases of rape and eve-teasing, he said.

The investigation officers will have to complete the probe into rape cases in one month and in eve-teasing within 15 days, or else action would be taken against them, he said.

Khattar said six fast-track courts to deal with crimes against women would be set up in five districts.&nbsp;

Khattar said the 9th to 12th class girl students would be trained in self-defence for which instructors would be appointed in all-girls schools having over 50 students in classes 9th and 10th.

 
&nbsp;

The chief minister made the announcements at a public function organised under the 'Ek Aur Sudhar Programme' at Panchkula near here.

Those accused of rape or eve-teasing will no longer be given state facilities like old-age or disability pension as well as driving or arm licenses till they are acquitted by the court, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said on Thursday. In case the accused is convicted and sentenced, he would be disentitled to these government facilities for good, he added. The chief minister made the announcements at a public function organised under the 'Ek Aur Sudhar Programme' at Panchkula near here, reports news agency PTI. Reiterating his government's commitment to make Haryana the number one state in the country in terms of safety and security of women and girls, Khattar said a comprehensive scheme on the issue would soon be launched either on the Independence Day or on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan. The chief minister was quoted as saying if a rape victim desired to hire a lawyer of her choice besides the prosecution counsel, she would be given Rs 22,000 for paying the fee to her advocate. The state would also soon provide uninterrupted and speedy probe in all cases of rape and eve-teasing, he said. The investigation officers will have to complete the probe into rape cases in one month and in eve-teasing within 15 days, or else action would be taken against them, he said. Khattar said six fast-track courts to deal with crimes against women would be set up in five districts. Khattar said the 9th to 12th class girl students would be trained in self-defence for which instructors would be appointed in all-girls schools having over 50 students in classes 9th and 10th.

No driving licence for rape accused in Haryana: Chief minister Khattar

This is a segment of WION which brings to you stories. Internet remains free and fair in India as Telecom Commission approves net neutrality rules. Watch this video for more information.

Internet remains free and fair in India; Telecom Commission approves net neutrality rules

Low-cost airline SpiceJet is considering entering into major business partnerships with two American companies, including a US airline, its chairman and managing director Ajay Singh has said.

"We are exploring an alliance with a major international carrier and also another major American company," Singh told reporters at the sidelines of the Annual Leadership Summit of US-India Strategic and Partnership Summit (USISPF) here yesterday.

"As you know, aviation is a fairly high-risk enterprise," the airline's chief said, adding that the SpiceJet was working to diversify activities beyond aviation.

While SpiceJet has done exceedingly well in the last three years, in terms of profitability, operationally in terms of load factor, stock performance, and expansions, Singh said, "We must hedge ourselves from the risk of being in a pure aviation business and find the businesses which are connected to aviation, which would be a little more insulated from the high cost of fuel and so on.

"So, we are looking at some new areas. We will be making announcements at the appropriate time. We believe that there are significant strategic partnerships that we can enter into and we will be announcing them soon."

Refraining from naming his partner companies in the US, with which they were planning to enter into an agreement, Singh said they are looking at the technology sector.

"We think that that's an important space to be in the digital and technology space. We want to be in the cargo, courier and logistics business. We believe that that's going to be an important part of SpiceJet's business," Singh said, noting that this would be the "first" for an Indian airline.

Expanding SpiceJet to the US is not on the cards right now, he said, adding that the company is looking more at the collaboration in terms of improving the operating performance, of finding a new technology to improve the consumer experience.

There would be some strategic understanding with US companies in the sphere of cargo and courier, he said, describing it as a logistic rather than courier business.&nbsp;

Singh said, We must hedge ourselves from the risk of being in a pure aviation business and find the businesses which are connected to aviation, which would be a little more insulated from the high cost of fuel and so on

Low-cost airline SpiceJet is considering entering into major business partnerships with two American companies, including a US airline, its chairman and managing director Ajay Singh has said. "We are exploring an alliance with a major international carrier and also another major American company," Singh told reporters at the sidelines of the Annual Leadership Summit of US-India Strategic and Partnership Summit (USISPF) here yesterday. "As you know, aviation is a fairly high-risk enterprise," the airline's chief said, adding that the SpiceJet was working to diversify activities beyond aviation. While SpiceJet has done exceedingly well in the last three years, in terms of profitability, operationally in terms of load factor, stock performance, and expansions, Singh said, "We must hedge ourselves from the risk of being in a pure aviation business and find the businesses which are connected to aviation, which would be a little more insulated from the high cost of fuel and so on. "So, we are looking at some new areas. We will be making announcements at the appropriate time. We believe that there are significant strategic partnerships that we can enter into and we will be announcing them soon." Refraining from naming his partner companies in the US, with which they were planning to enter into an agreement, Singh said they are looking at the technology sector. "We think that that's an important space to be in the digital and technology space. We want to be in the cargo, courier and logistics business. We believe that that's going to be an important part of SpiceJet's business," Singh said, noting that this would be the "first" for an Indian airline. Expanding SpiceJet to the US is not on the cards right now, he said, adding that the company is looking more at the collaboration in terms of improving the operating performance, of finding a new technology to improve the consumer experience. There would be some strategic understanding with US companies in the sphere of cargo and courier, he said, describing it as a logistic rather than courier business.

SpiceJet to enter into major business partnerships with US companies: CMD Ajay Singh

A special court today ordered framing of an additional charge of abetment of bribery against Congress leader and industrialist Naveen Jindal and others in a case pertaining to irregularities in the allocation of a Jharkhand coal block.&nbsp

Special judge Bharat Parashar said the charge will formally be framed against the accused on August 16.

The court had in April, 2016 ordered framing of charges against Jindal, former MoS for Coal Dasari Narayan Rao (since deceased), former Jharkhand Chief Minister Madhu Koda, former Coal Secretary H C Gupta and 11 others for the alleged offences of criminal conspiracy, cheating, criminal breach of trust under the IPC and sections of Prevention of Corruption Act in the case.&nbsp

However, the bribery charge was not framed then.

The case pertains to allocation of the Amarkonda Murgadangal coal block in Jharkhand.

In today's order, the court said the charge of bribery (punishable under section 7 of Prevention of Corruption Act) is made out against Rao, but since he was deceased, the charge will not be framed against him.

The court also ordered framing of section 120B (criminal conspiracy) against Jindal Steel's then adviser Anand Goel, Nihar Stocks Ltd Director BSN Suryanarayan and Mumbai's Essar Power Ltd Executive Vice-Chairman Sushil Kumar Maroo.

The three were named in an additional charge sheet filed by the agency in the case.&nbsp

Special judge Bharat Parashar said the charge will formally be framed against the accused on August 16.

A special court today ordered framing of an additional charge of abetment of bribery against Congress leader and industrialist Naveen Jindal and others in a case pertaining to irregularities in the allocation of a Jharkhand coal block. Special judge Bharat Parashar said the charge will formally be framed against the accused on August 16. The court had in April, 2016 ordered framing of charges against Jindal, former MoS for Coal Dasari Narayan Rao (since deceased), former Jharkhand Chief Minister Madhu Koda, former Coal Secretary H C Gupta and 11 others for the alleged offences of criminal conspiracy, cheating, criminal breach of trust under the IPC and sections of Prevention of Corruption Act in the case. However, the bribery charge was not framed then. The case pertains to allocation of the Amarkonda Murgadangal coal block in Jharkhand. In today's order, the court said the charge of bribery (punishable under section 7 of Prevention of Corruption Act) is made out against Rao, but since he was deceased, the charge will not be framed against him. The court also ordered framing of section 120B (criminal conspiracy) against Jindal Steel's then adviser Anand Goel, Nihar Stocks Ltd Director BSN Suryanarayan and Mumbai's Essar Power Ltd Executive Vice-Chairman Sushil Kumar Maroo. The three were named in an additional charge sheet filed by the agency in the case.

Coal scam: Court orders framing of additional charge against Naveen Jindal

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and chief Mehbooba Mufti on Friday warned of dire consequences if Delhi tries to break PDP. &nbsp;''If Delhi it (Delhi) tries to break PDP then outcomes will be dangerous,'' news agency ANI quoted Mufti as saying.&nbsp;

Mufti's comments come amid reports of horse trading BJP and the saffron party&nbsp;trying to form the government in the state by breaking the PDP, something acknowledged even by the leader of the Opposition and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah.&nbsp;

Speculation is also rife that the BJP is again trying to form the government in the state with the support of rebel PDM MLAs after parting ways with the PDP in July.&nbsp;

''If Delhi, tries to dismiss the voting rights of people like 1987, if it tries to create divisions & interfere like that then I think just like a Salahuddin and a Yasin Malik were born in 1987...if it tries to break PDP like that then outcomes will be dangerous: Mehbooba Mufti, J&K,'' Muti was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

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If Delhi, tries to dismiss the voting rights of people like 1987, if it tries to create divisions & interfere like that then I think just like a Salahuddin and a Yasin Malik were born in 1987...if it tries to break PDP like that then outcomes will be dangerous:Mehbooba Mufti, J&K <a href="https://t.co/vxmtVmFWqf">pic.twitter.com/vxmtVmFWqf</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1017614060928557056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Mufti's comments come amid reports of horse trading BJP and the saffron party trying to form the government in the state by breaking the PDP

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and chief Mehbooba Mufti on Friday warned of dire consequences if Delhi tries to break PDP. ''If Delhi it (Delhi) tries to break PDP then outcomes will be dangerous,'' news agency ANI quoted Mufti as saying. Mufti's comments come amid reports of horse trading BJP and the saffron party trying to form the government in the state by breaking the PDP, something acknowledged even by the leader of the Opposition and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah. Speculation is also rife that the BJP is again trying to form the government in the state with the support of rebel PDM MLAs after parting ways with the PDP in July. ''If Delhi, tries to dismiss the voting rights of people like 1987, if it tries to create divisions & interfere like that then I think just like a Salahuddin and a Yasin Malik were born in 1987...if it tries to break PDP like that then outcomes will be dangerous: Mehbooba Mufti, J&K,'' Muti was quoted as saying. If Delhi, tries to dismiss the voting rights of people like 1987, if it tries to create divisions & interfere like that then I think just like a Salahuddin and a Yasin Malik were born in 1987...if it tries to break PDP like that then outcomes will be dangerous:Mehbooba Mufti, J&K pic.twitter.com/vxmtVmFWqf — ANI (@ANI) July 13, 2018 ×

Outcomes will be dangerous if Delhi tries to break PDP: Mehbooba Mufti warns BJP

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti has warned Delhi against trying to break her PDP party, saying that if it did, it would lead to a 1987-like situation.&nbsp

"If Delhi tries to dismiss the voting rights of people like 1987, if it tries to create divisions and interfere like that then I think just like a Salahuddin and a Yasin Malik were born in 1987...if it tries to break PDP like that then outcomes will be dangerous," she told ANI.&nbsp

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Former J&K CM M Mufti says'Agar Dilli ne 1987 ki tarah yahan ki awam ke vote pe daaka dala, agar iss kism ki tod fod ki koshish ki,jis tarah ek Salahuddin ek Yasin Malik ne janm liya...agar Dilliwalon ne PDP ko todne ki koshish ki uski nataish bahut zyada khatarnaak hogi' <a href="https://t.co/LmC7V4OwN2">pic.twitter.com/LmC7V4OwN2</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1017619393637953542?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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If Delhi, tries to dismiss the voting rights of people like 1987, if it tries to create divisions & interfere like that then I think just like a Salahuddin and a Yasin Malik were born in 1987...if it tries to break PDP like that then outcomes will be dangerous:Mehbooba Mufti, J&K <a href="https://t.co/vxmtVmFWqf">pic.twitter.com/vxmtVmFWqf</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1017614060928557056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The BJP recently <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-pulls-out-of-alliance-with-pdp-in-kashmir-145468">pulled out</a> of its alliance with the PDP in Kashmir, putting the state under Governor's rule. There have been murmurs since then that the BJP might try to form another government with the help of breakaway PDP MLAs and independents.&nbsp

Former chief minister Omar Abdullah was quick to pick on her statement, saying "she (Mehbooba) must realy be desperate is she is threatening the centre with renewed militancy if PDP breaks up."

He added that "she seems to have forgotten that militancy in Kashmir has already been reborn under her most able administration."

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She must really be desperate if she is threatening the centre with renewed militancy if PDP breaks up. She seems to have forgotten that militancy in Kashmir has already been reborn under her most able administration. <a href="https://t.co/aEmQXe0YaL">https://t.co/aEmQXe0YaL</a>
— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) <a href="https://twitter.com/OmarAbdullah/status/1017615132963188736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The 1987 elections in Jammu and Kashmir, with allegations of widespread rigging, are seen as having kicked off militancy in the state.&nbsp

 
&nbsp

The 1987 elections in Jammu and Kashmir, with allegations of widespread rigging, are seen as having kicked off militancy in the state

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti has warned Delhi against trying to break her PDP party, saying that if it did, it would lead to a 1987-like situation. "If Delhi tries to dismiss the voting rights of people like 1987, if it tries to create divisions and interfere like that then I think just like a Salahuddin and a Yasin Malik were born in 1987...if it tries to break PDP like that then outcomes will be dangerous," she told ANI. #WATCH: Former J&K CM M Mufti says'Agar Dilli ne 1987 ki tarah yahan ki awam ke vote pe daaka dala, agar iss kism ki tod fod ki koshish ki,jis tarah ek Salahuddin ek Yasin Malik ne janm liya...agar Dilliwalon ne PDP ko todne ki koshish ki uski nataish bahut zyada khatarnaak hogi' pic.twitter.com/LmC7V4OwN2 — ANI (@ANI) July 13, 2018 × If Delhi, tries to dismiss the voting rights of people like 1987, if it tries to create divisions & interfere like that then I think just like a Salahuddin and a Yasin Malik were born in 1987...if it tries to break PDP like that then outcomes will be dangerous:Mehbooba Mufti, J&K pic.twitter.com/vxmtVmFWqf — ANI (@ANI) July 13, 2018 × The BJP recently pulled out of its alliance with the PDP in Kashmir, putting the state under Governor's rule. There have been murmurs since then that the BJP might try to form another government with the help of breakaway PDP MLAs and independents. Former chief minister Omar Abdullah was quick to pick on her statement, saying "she (Mehbooba) must realy be desperate is she is threatening the centre with renewed militancy if PDP breaks up." He added that "she seems to have forgotten that militancy in Kashmir has already been reborn under her most able administration." She must really be desperate if she is threatening the centre with renewed militancy if PDP breaks up. She seems to have forgotten that militancy in Kashmir has already been reborn under her most able administration. https://t.co/aEmQXe0YaL — Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) July 13, 2018 × The 1987 elections in Jammu and Kashmir, with allegations of widespread rigging, are seen as having kicked off militancy in the state.

If Delhi tries to break PDP, it will lead to 1987-like situation: Mehboob Mufti

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India becoming a 'surveillance state'? Supreme Court issues notice to Modi government

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