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<a href="http://wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-seeks-to-revive-arab-nato-with-six-gulf-states-to-confront-iran-155263">US president Donald Trump seeks to revive ‘Arab Nato’ with six Gulf states to confront Iran</a>

The Trump administration is quietly pushing ahead with a bid to create a new security and political alliance with six Gulf Arab states, Egypt and Jordan, in part to counter Iran’s expansion in the region, according to US and Arab officials.&nbsp

<a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-khan-talks-of-us-ties-but-anti-american-rhetoric-has-many-wary-155297">Pakistan's Khan talks of US ties, but </a><a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-khan-talks-of-us-ties-but-anti-american-rhetoric-has-many-wary-155297">anti-American</a><a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-khan-talks-of-us-ties-but-anti-american-rhetoric-has-many-wary-155297"> rhetoric has many wary</a>

Over the years, Pakistan's Imran Khan has been known for his anti-American rhetoric, once even suggesting he might, as prime minister, order the shooting down of US&nbspdrones targeting al Qaeda figures along the Pakistan-Afghan border.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/samajwadi-party-says-lok-sabha-polls-should-be-held-through-ballot-paper--155256">Samajwadi Party says Lok Sabha polls should be held through ballot paper</a>

Lok Sabha elections should be held through ballot paper and not Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), demanded Samajwadi Party (SP) national executive at its meeting in Lucknow.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/465-dead-in-5-states-due-to-rains-floods-during-monsoon-155291">465 dead in 5 states due to rains, floods during monsoon</a>

The heavy rains and floods in the country have so far claimed the lives of 138 people in Maharashtra, 125 in Kerala, 116 in West Bengal, 52 in Gujarat and 34 in Assam.

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/turkey-us-relations-can-be-saved-erdogans-spokesman--155314">Turkey, US relations can be saved: Erdogan's spokesman</a>

Turkey and the United States can save their relationship, President Tayyip Erdogan's spokesman said on Saturday after President Donald Trump threatened to slap sanctions on Ankara in a deepening of tensions between the NATO partners.

US president Donald Trump seeks to revive ‘Arab Nato’ with six Gulf states to confront Iran The Trump administration is quietly pushing ahead with a bid to create a new security and political alliance with six Gulf Arab states, Egypt and Jordan, in part to counter Iran’s expansion in the region, according to US and Arab officials. Pakistan's Khan talks of US ties, but anti-American rhetoric has many wary Over the years, Pakistan's Imran Khan has been known for his anti-American rhetoric, once even suggesting he might, as prime minister, order the shooting down of US&nbspdrones targeting al Qaeda figures along the Pakistan-Afghan border. Samajwadi Party says Lok Sabha polls should be held through ballot paper Lok Sabha elections should be held through ballot paper and not Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), demanded Samajwadi Party (SP) national executive at its meeting in Lucknow. 465 dead in 5 states due to rains, floods during monsoon The heavy rains and floods in the country have so far claimed the lives of 138 people in Maharashtra, 125 in Kerala, 116 in West Bengal, 52 in Gujarat and 34 in Assam. Turkey, US relations can be saved: Erdogan's spokesman Turkey and the United States can save their relationship, President Tayyip Erdogan's spokesman said on Saturday after President Donald Trump threatened to slap sanctions on Ankara in a deepening of tensions between the NATO partners.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Congress president Rahul Gandhi today stepped up his attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging that the tax payers would have to pay Rs 1 lakh crore over the next 50 years to "Mr 56's friend" for maintaining the 36 Rafale aircrafts that the country was buying.&nbsp

Gandhi has been taking a swipe at Modi using the "56-inch-chest" remark that the latter had made at elections rallies in the run-up to the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. The Congress had also been questioning the prime minister about when he would show that "broad chest" while dealing with Pakistan and China.

"Over the next 50 years, Indian Tax Payers will pay Mr 56's friend's JV, 100,000 Cr to maintain 36 RafaleScam jets, India is buying," Gandhi tweeted.

The Congress chief attached an investor presentation of Reliance Infrastructure, saying there was "truth" in it, which would soon be denied "as usual" by Defense Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in a press conference.

Gandhi had alleged yesterday that "Mr 56's friend" would actually benefit "US $ 20 billion", equivalent to Rs 1.30 lakh crore, through offset contracts in the Rafale deal.

The Congress has been attacking the BJP government over the Rafale deal, alleging favouritism in granting the offset contract to Reliance Defence in violation of the rules. It had accused Modi and Sitharaman of "lying" to the nation on the issue.

The party had described the deal as the "biggest example" of crony capitalism and alleged that national interest was compromised. It had also given a notice for breach of privilege in the Lok Sabha against the prime minister and defence minister on the issue.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Over the next 50 years, Indian Tax Payers will pay Mr 56’s friend’s JV, 100,000 Cr to maintain 36 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RafaleScam?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RafaleScam</a> jets, India is buying? 
 
Raksha Mantri will address a Press CON to deny this, as usual? 
 
But the truth is in the presentation I’m attaching? <a href="https://t.co/a90XNet7dU">pic.twitter.com/a90XNet7dU</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1023153595624120320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp

The Congress has been attacking the BJP government over the Rafale deal, alleging favouritism in granting the offset contract to Reliance Defence in violation of the rules. It had accused Modi and Sitharaman of 'lying' to the nation on the issue

Congress president Rahul Gandhi today stepped up his attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging that the tax payers would have to pay Rs 1 lakh crore over the next 50 years to "Mr 56's friend" for maintaining the 36 Rafale aircrafts that the country was buying. Gandhi has been taking a swipe at Modi using the "56-inch-chest" remark that the latter had made at elections rallies in the run-up to the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. The Congress had also been questioning the prime minister about when he would show that "broad chest" while dealing with Pakistan and China. "Over the next 50 years, Indian Tax Payers will pay Mr 56's friend's JV, 100,000 Cr to maintain 36 RafaleScam jets, India is buying," Gandhi tweeted. The Congress chief attached an investor presentation of Reliance Infrastructure, saying there was "truth" in it, which would soon be denied "as usual" by Defense Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in a press conference. Gandhi had alleged yesterday that "Mr 56's friend" would actually benefit "US $ 20 billion", equivalent to Rs 1.30 lakh crore, through offset contracts in the Rafale deal. The Congress has been attacking the BJP government over the Rafale deal, alleging favouritism in granting the offset contract to Reliance Defence in violation of the rules. It had accused Modi and Sitharaman of "lying" to the nation on the issue. The party had described the deal as the "biggest example" of crony capitalism and alleged that national interest was compromised. It had also given a notice for breach of privilege in the Lok Sabha against the prime minister and defence minister on the issue. Over the next 50 years, Indian Tax Payers will pay Mr 56’s friend’s JV, 100,000 Cr to maintain 36 #RafaleScam jets, India is buying? Raksha Mantri will address a Press CON to deny this, as usual? But the truth is in the presentation I’m attaching? pic.twitter.com/a90XNet7dU — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 28, 2018 ×

Tax payers will pay Rs 1 lakh crore to 'Mr 56's friend' for Rafale deal: Rahul Gandhi

Indian travelers who will have to transit through the international zone of any airport in France will no longer require an Airport Transit Visa, starting Monday.&nbsp;

“I’m pleased to announce that, with effect from 23rd July 2018, holders of Indian passports will no longer require an Airport Transit Visa (ATV) while transiting through the international zone of any airport in France #ChooseFrance,” tweeted Alexandre Ziegler, France’s Ambassador to India.

France forms part of the Schengen Area comprising 26 European states.

The Schengen Area is an area comprising 26 European states that have officially abolished passport and all other types of border control at their mutual borders.

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I’m pleased to announce that, with effect from 23rd July 2018, holders of Indian passports will no longer require an Airport Transit Visa (ATV) while transiting through the international zone of any airport in France <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChooseFrance?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChooseFrance</a> ➡️<a href="https://t.co/7TiAkqL2As">https://t.co/7TiAkqL2As</a> <a href="https://t.co/zZjIh1Zg1p">pic.twitter.com/zZjIh1Zg1p</a>
— Alexandre Ziegler (@FranceinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/FranceinIndia/status/1019188850541846528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

France forms part of the Schengen Area comprising 26 European states.

Indian travelers who will have to transit through the international zone of any airport in France will no longer require an Airport Transit Visa, starting Monday. “I’m pleased to announce that, with effect from 23rd July 2018, holders of Indian passports will no longer require an Airport Transit Visa (ATV) while transiting through the international zone of any airport in France #ChooseFrance,” tweeted Alexandre Ziegler, France’s Ambassador to India. France forms part of the Schengen Area comprising 26 European states. The Schengen Area is an area comprising 26 European states that have officially abolished passport and all other types of border control at their mutual borders. I’m pleased to announce that, with effect from 23rd July 2018, holders of Indian passports will no longer require an Airport Transit Visa (ATV) while transiting through the international zone of any airport in France #ChooseFrance ➡️https://t.co/7TiAkqL2As pic.twitter.com/zZjIh1Zg1p — Alexandre Ziegler (@FranceinIndia) July 17, 2018 ×

Now, no visas required for Indians transiting from France

The first 'Nepal-India Think Tank' summit will begin in Kathmandu on Tuesday to foster greater collaboration and knowledge-sharing among the think tanks of the two countries.

Former Prime Minister and Co-chairman of Communist Party of Nepal (CPN) Prachanda will inaugurate the summit jointly hosted by Asian Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs (AIDA) and Nehru Memorial Museum Library, the organisers have said.

BJP General Secretary Ram Madhav will deliver the keynote speech at the summit.

"Nepal has for the first time to address the need for greater collaboration and knowledge-sharing among Nepali and Indian think tanks, as well as the specific problem of bridging the gap between think tanks and policymakers in the region," said AIDA CEO Sunil K C.

The summit, proposed to become an annual feature for the participating organisations, will be hosted alternatively each year in Nepal and India.

"The objective of the summit is to support the networks and promote mutual understanding through institutional collaboration on resource sharing for joint events/publications among think tanks of the two countries," Sunil said.

The summit aims to facilitate cooperation and knowledge-sharing among think tanks, and to reflect on the work of think tanks and the challenges they are facing, Sunil added.

Policymakers, government representatives, diplomats, academicians, businesses and media personnel will participate in the summit.&nbsp

The summit, proposed to become an annual feature for the participating organisations, will be hosted alternatively each year in Nepal and India

The first 'Nepal-India Think Tank' summit will begin in Kathmandu on Tuesday to foster greater collaboration and knowledge-sharing among the think tanks of the two countries. Former Prime Minister and Co-chairman of Communist Party of Nepal (CPN) Prachanda will inaugurate the summit jointly hosted by Asian Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs (AIDA) and Nehru Memorial Museum Library, the organisers have said. BJP General Secretary Ram Madhav will deliver the keynote speech at the summit. "Nepal has for the first time to address the need for greater collaboration and knowledge-sharing among Nepali and Indian think tanks, as well as the specific problem of bridging the gap between think tanks and policymakers in the region," said AIDA CEO Sunil K C. The summit, proposed to become an annual feature for the participating organisations, will be hosted alternatively each year in Nepal and India. "The objective of the summit is to support the networks and promote mutual understanding through institutional collaboration on resource sharing for joint events/publications among think tanks of the two countries," Sunil said. The summit aims to facilitate cooperation and knowledge-sharing among think tanks, and to reflect on the work of think tanks and the challenges they are facing, Sunil added. Policymakers, government representatives, diplomats, academicians, businesses and media personnel will participate in the summit.

First 'Nepal-India Think Tank Summit' to begin on Tuesday

Kicking off a fresh war of words, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) minister in Rajasthan, Jaswant Singh Yadav, termed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamta Banerjee a mentally unstable person.

While reacting to Banerjee's recent statement on right-wing organisations, Yadav, who is the Labour Minister in Rajasthan government, said: "Someone who does not have any knowledge, or love for the nation, what more a shameless statement Mamata Ji (Mamata Banerjee) could have given than, 'all Hindu organizations are extremists'. Why doesn't she leave the Hindu religion then? Mamata Ji's mental condition is not stable."

Mamata Banerjee on July 21 while addressing a Trinamool Congress (TMC) annual mega rally in Kolkatta had said: "The way lynching is taking place across India, they are creating Talibanis among people and pushing people into a pit of extremism."

She also alleged that a couple of members from the BJP and Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) are "playing dirty games" in the name of religion.

While saying that he does not endorse lynching and violence, Yadav added that caution has to be maintained by people to refrain from hurting religious sentiments.

"We are still saying that people taking the law into their hands, and beating anyone is unlawful and wrong. But, the cow is a symbol for Hindus and if these illegal businesses do not stop, these reactions will continue. No government or any other organisation can put an end to it," Yadav said while reacting to the Alwar lynching incident.

Mamata Banerjee on July 21 while addressing a Trinamool Congress (TMC) annual mega rally in Kolkatta had said: 'The way lynching is taking place across India, they are creating Talibanis among people and pushing people into a pit of extremism'

Kicking off a fresh war of words, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) minister in Rajasthan, Jaswant Singh Yadav, termed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamta Banerjee a mentally unstable person. While reacting to Banerjee's recent statement on right-wing organisations, Yadav, who is the Labour Minister in Rajasthan government, said: "Someone who does not have any knowledge, or love for the nation, what more a shameless statement Mamata Ji (Mamata Banerjee) could have given than, 'all Hindu organizations are extremists'. Why doesn't she leave the Hindu religion then? Mamata Ji's mental condition is not stable." Mamata Banerjee on July 21 while addressing a Trinamool Congress (TMC) annual mega rally in Kolkatta had said: "The way lynching is taking place across India, they are creating Talibanis among people and pushing people into a pit of extremism." She also alleged that a couple of members from the BJP and Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) are "playing dirty games" in the name of religion. While saying that he does not endorse lynching and violence, Yadav added that caution has to be maintained by people to refrain from hurting religious sentiments. "We are still saying that people taking the law into their hands, and beating anyone is unlawful and wrong. But, the cow is a symbol for Hindus and if these illegal businesses do not stop, these reactions will continue. No government or any other organisation can put an end to it," Yadav said while reacting to the Alwar lynching incident.

Mamata Ji's mental condition isn't stable: BJP minister on TMC chief

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti has urged the Centre to seize the opportunity by extending a hand of friendship with Pakistan's Prime Minister-in-waiting Imran Khan so that issues between the two countries could be resolved.

While addressing the 19th foundation day of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Srinagar on Saturday, Mehbooba said, "I appeal to (Prime Minister) Narendra Modi to take the opportunity to develop strong friendship with Imran Khan so that relations between the two countries could be strong, and other problems could also be resolved through dialogue."

Imran Khan in his speech after Pakistan's general elections on July 25 said that it was time the two countries sat across the table and discussed the Kashmir issue.

He said, "We should sit across and resolve the issues instead of we blaming India for problems in Balochistan and they blaming us for problems in Kashmir.

"Without naming anyone, PDP chief in her speech, however, took a dig at the RSS-BJP. She said, "To solve the Kashmir issue we always raised our voice but vested interests always created problems in the name Article 370 and 35 A."

She urged the Centre to hold dialogue with Hurriyat leaders also.

She said the Centre should have a positive mindset in resolving the existing problems prevailing in the Valley. Taking credit for the ceasefire measure, Mehbooba added that it was the PDP who took the initiative for a ceasefire during Ramzan in May-June.

"PDP took initiative for a ceasefire during Ramzan. I appeal to the Centre to show a positive attitude towards Hurriyat and aim to bring them on the table for dialogue," said Mehbooba.

Elaborating on PDP's role in the Valley, the former chief minister said that her father, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, who served twice as the chief minister of the state was always in favour of holding dialogue with Pakistan to resolve issues due to which the region has been reeling for many years.

She also claimed that while in power, the PDP always raised its voice for revoking of Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2002 (POTA) to eradicate terrorism in the Valley but vested interest of several political outfits prevented it.

"My father always made efforts to bring peace in the Valley and that is why he pitched that dialogue with Pakistan is a must. But both of us did not have authority to take the decision on the matter. But we still took ample steps such as to control the task force, revoke POTA to ease the lives of people," Mehbooba pointed out.&nbsp

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti has urged the Centre to seize the opportunity by extending a hand of friendship with Pakistan's Prime Minister-in-waiting Imran Khan so that issues between the two countries could be resolved

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti has urged the Centre to seize the opportunity by extending a hand of friendship with Pakistan's Prime Minister-in-waiting Imran Khan so that issues between the two countries could be resolved. While addressing the 19th foundation day of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Srinagar on Saturday, Mehbooba said, "I appeal to (Prime Minister) Narendra Modi to take the opportunity to develop strong friendship with Imran Khan so that relations between the two countries could be strong, and other problems could also be resolved through dialogue." Imran Khan in his speech after Pakistan's general elections on July 25 said that it was time the two countries sat across the table and discussed the Kashmir issue. He said, "We should sit across and resolve the issues instead of we blaming India for problems in Balochistan and they blaming us for problems in Kashmir. "Without naming anyone, PDP chief in her speech, however, took a dig at the RSS-BJP. She said, "To solve the Kashmir issue we always raised our voice but vested interests always created problems in the name Article 370 and 35 A." She urged the Centre to hold dialogue with Hurriyat leaders also. She said the Centre should have a positive mindset in resolving the existing problems prevailing in the Valley. Taking credit for the ceasefire measure, Mehbooba added that it was the PDP who took the initiative for a ceasefire during Ramzan in May-June. "PDP took initiative for a ceasefire during Ramzan. I appeal to the Centre to show a positive attitude towards Hurriyat and aim to bring them on the table for dialogue," said Mehbooba. Elaborating on PDP's role in the Valley, the former chief minister said that her father, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, who served twice as the chief minister of the state was always in favour of holding dialogue with Pakistan to resolve issues due to which the region has been reeling for many years. She also claimed that while in power, the PDP always raised its voice for revoking of Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2002 (POTA) to eradicate terrorism in the Valley but vested interest of several political outfits prevented it. "My father always made efforts to bring peace in the Valley and that is why he pitched that dialogue with Pakistan is a must. But both of us did not have authority to take the decision on the matter. But we still took ample steps such as to control the task force, revoke POTA to ease the lives of people," Mehbooba pointed out.

J&K: Mehbooba calls for better relations with Imran Khan

The heavy rains and floods in the country have so far claimed the lives of 138 people in Maharashtra, 125 in Kerala, 116 in West Bengal, 52 in Gujarat and 34 in Assam.

According to a recently released report from the Home Ministry's National Emergency Response Centre (NERC), around 465 people were killed in the five states during the current monsoon season.

The deluges and rains have hit 26 districts in Maharashtra, 22 in West Bengal, 21 in Assam, 14 in Kerala and 10 in Gujarat so far.&nbsp;

In Assam, 10.17 lakh people were affected by rains and floods, of which 2.17 lakh were living in relief camps.

While in Kerala, the flood-impacted 1.43 lakh people. The state has registered 125 deaths

In Gujarat, 15,912 people were evacuated to safer locations.

While the Assam government has put in Twelve teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), West Bengal has deployed eight, Gujarat has put in 11, Kerala has positioned four, while Maharashtra has deployed three NDRF teams.

A team of the NDRF comprises 45 personnel.&nbsp;

<img alt="ASSAM.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="400" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/ASSAM.jpg" width="700" />

<img alt="MAHARASHTRA.gif" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="400" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/MAHARASHTRA.gif" width="700" />

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Haldwani: Streets waterlogged following heavy rainfall in the city. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Uttarakhand?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Uttarakhand</a> <a href="https://t.co/B8ADKgaMx8">pic.twitter.com/B8ADKgaMx8</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1023155957319249921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

The deluges and rains have hit 26 districts in Maharashtra, 22 in West Bengal, 21 in Assam, 14 in Kerala and 10 in Gujarat so far

The heavy rains and floods in the country have so far claimed the lives of 138 people in Maharashtra, 125 in Kerala, 116 in West Bengal, 52 in Gujarat and 34 in Assam. According to a recently released report from the Home Ministry's National Emergency Response Centre (NERC), around 465 people were killed in the five states during the current monsoon season. The deluges and rains have hit 26 districts in Maharashtra, 22 in West Bengal, 21 in Assam, 14 in Kerala and 10 in Gujarat so far. In Assam, 10.17 lakh people were affected by rains and floods, of which 2.17 lakh were living in relief camps. While in Kerala, the flood-impacted 1.43 lakh people. The state has registered 125 deaths In Gujarat, 15,912 people were evacuated to safer locations. While the Assam government has put in Twelve teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), West Bengal has deployed eight, Gujarat has put in 11, Kerala has positioned four, while Maharashtra has deployed three NDRF teams. A team of the NDRF comprises 45 personnel. Haldwani: Streets waterlogged following heavy rainfall in the city. #Uttarakhand pic.twitter.com/B8ADKgaMx8 — ANI (@ANI) July 28, 2018 × (With inputs from PTI)

465 dead in 5 states due to rains, floods during monsoon

Eight people including seven engineers and a contractor have been arrested in connection with the <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/after-flyover-collapse-adityanath-pays-surprise-visits-to-under-construction-sites-in-varanasi-138340">Varanasi flyover collapse incident</a> in May, which left 15 people dead, Uttar Pradesh DGP OP Singh said on Saturday.

He said<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/varanasi-flyover-collapse-fir-registered-against-concerned-officials-and-contractors-137438"> </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/varanasi-flyover-collapse-fir-registered-against-concerned-officials-and-contractors-137438">action</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/varanasi-flyover-collapse-fir-registered-against-concerned-officials-and-contractors-137438"> was taken against the eight</a> after collecting "technical proofs" with the help of scientists of Central Building Research Institute, Roorkee (Uttarakhand).

"It was found that there were many shortcomings in the bridge on which the investigating officer quizzed the engineers before arresting them," Singh said.

A probe into the incident found that failure to cast cross beams for locking the girders led to the collapse of a portion of a railway overbridge (ROB) as the structure was left exposed to external forces.

The report of a technical committee, set up by the state government to ascertain the cause of incident and accessed by PTI, also said uninterrupted traffic flow on the busy road was the main reason for generating vibrations that may have led to the collapse.

An FIR was registered against the UP State Bridge Corporation officials, who were working on the site, under section 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), section 308 (attempt to commit culpable homicide) of the IPC on May 16, a day after the collapse, following a complaint by the Roadways police outpost in-charge.

The project manager and other officials were suspended and the government also shifted Managing Director of Bridge Corporation Rajan Mittal.

Mittal was removed from his post during the term of the Akhilesh Yadav government following complaints. But he was reinstated when the BJP government came to power last year.&nbsp

'It was found that there were many shortcomings in the bridge on which the investigating officer quizzed the engineers before arresting them', Uttar Pradesh DGP OP Singh said.

Eight people including seven engineers and a contractor have been arrested in connection with the Varanasi flyover collapse incident in May, which left 15 people dead, Uttar Pradesh DGP OP Singh said on Saturday. He said action was taken against the eight after collecting "technical proofs" with the help of scientists of Central Building Research Institute, Roorkee (Uttarakhand). "It was found that there were many shortcomings in the bridge on which the investigating officer quizzed the engineers before arresting them," Singh said. A probe into the incident found that failure to cast cross beams for locking the girders led to the collapse of a portion of a railway overbridge (ROB) as the structure was left exposed to external forces. The report of a technical committee, set up by the state government to ascertain the cause of incident and accessed by PTI, also said uninterrupted traffic flow on the busy road was the main reason for generating vibrations that may have led to the collapse. An FIR was registered against the UP State Bridge Corporation officials, who were working on the site, under section 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), section 308 (attempt to commit culpable homicide) of the IPC on May 16, a day after the collapse, following a complaint by the Roadways police outpost in-charge. The project manager and other officials were suspended and the government also shifted Managing Director of Bridge Corporation Rajan Mittal. Mittal was removed from his post during the term of the Akhilesh Yadav government following complaints. But he was reinstated when the BJP government came to power last year.

Varanasi flyover collapse: 7 engineers, contractor arrested

Lok Sabha elections should be held through ballot paper and not Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), demanded Samajwadi Party (SP) national executive at its meeting in Lucknow.

Senior SP leader Ram Gopal Yadav said, "The main decision taken in the national executive is that party president Akhilesh Yadav has been authorised to take a decision on alliance and seat sharing for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls."

"The executive is of the view that elections should be held through ballot papers and not through EVMs," he said.

Recently, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had also demanded the use of ballot papers instead of Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections 2019.&nbsp;

It alleged that machines without Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) can be rigged to benefit the Modi-led BJP.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) should give up its insistence on using EVMs because only 22 per cent of the over 16 lakh VVPAT machines ordered by the poll panel have been received so far, senior party leader and MP Sanjay Singh had said quoting a news report.

The party's national executive also authorises party chief Akhilesh Yadav to decide on the alliance, seat sharing for LS polls,

Lok Sabha elections should be held through ballot paper and not Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), demanded Samajwadi Party (SP) national executive at its meeting in Lucknow. Senior SP leader Ram Gopal Yadav said, "The main decision taken in the national executive is that party president Akhilesh Yadav has been authorised to take a decision on alliance and seat sharing for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls." "The executive is of the view that elections should be held through ballot papers and not through EVMs," he said. Recently, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had also demanded the use of ballot papers instead of Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections 2019. It alleged that machines without Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) can be rigged to benefit the Modi-led BJP. The Election Commission of India (ECI) should give up its insistence on using EVMs because only 22 per cent of the over 16 lakh VVPAT machines ordered by the poll panel have been received so far, senior party leader and MP Sanjay Singh had said quoting a news report.

Samajwadi Party says Lok Sabha polls should be held through ballot paper

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the national capital after completing a five-day tour to three African nations.

Prime Minister Modi departed from Air Force Base Waterkloof in Johannesburg on Friday, after attending the 10th annual BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) summit.

As part of his five-day official tour, Prime Minister Modi first visited Kigali, Rwanda on Monday.

He did a one-on-one meeting and delegation-level talks with the President of the Republic of Rwanda, Paul Kagame. He also interacted with the Indian community there.

India and Rwanda signed eight agreements in an effort to bolster bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

Prime Minister Modi also gifted 200 cows to villagers as a part of Rwandan Government`s Girinka Programme.

The function to mark the handing over of cows was held at Rweru Model village, in the presence of President Kagame. Under this programme, the poorest residing in the region get cows from the government and gift the first female calf to a neighbour to promote brotherhood.

Later, Prime Minister Modi arrived in Kampala, Uganda and held delegation-level talks with Ugandan President, Yoweri Museveni. The former had said India would continue to play a stable partner in Uganda`s journey towards development.

While addressing the Parliament of Uganda, the Prime Minister said that India felt "proud" to be Africa`s partner as India`s story of freedom struggle was "intimately" linked to the continent.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Modi arrived in South Africa to participate in the BRICS summit.

India signed several MoUs in the fields of education, skill, health, and agriculture with South Africa.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Prime Minister Modi stressed on the need for BRICS cooperation for global portable social security framework, intended to benefit nearly 215 million people who were working outside their nations.

On the second day of the summit, Prime Minister Modi said that India intended to closely work with BRICS nations on the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is the fourth major industrial era after the initial Industrial Revolution of the 18th century. It is characterised by a fusion of technologies that is blurring the lines between the physical, digital and biological spheres.

Prime Minister Modi also held separate bilateral meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the summit.

On the last day of the BRICS summit, Prime Minister Modi re-affirmed India`s support to African countries. He emphasised the need for fostering peace and development in the African counties.The theme of this year`s BRICS summit was - `BRICS in Africa - collaboration for inclusive growth and shared prosperity in the Fourth Industrial Revolution`.

As part of his five-day official tour, Prime Minister Modi first visited Kigali, Rwanda on Monday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the national capital after completing a five-day tour to three African nations. Prime Minister Modi departed from Air Force Base Waterkloof in Johannesburg on Friday, after attending the 10th annual BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) summit. As part of his five-day official tour, Prime Minister Modi first visited Kigali, Rwanda on Monday. He did a one-on-one meeting and delegation-level talks with the President of the Republic of Rwanda, Paul Kagame. He also interacted with the Indian community there. India and Rwanda signed eight agreements in an effort to bolster bilateral cooperation between the two countries. Prime Minister Modi also gifted 200 cows to villagers as a part of Rwandan Government`s Girinka Programme. The function to mark the handing over of cows was held at Rweru Model village, in the presence of President Kagame. Under this programme, the poorest residing in the region get cows from the government and gift the first female calf to a neighbour to promote brotherhood. Later, Prime Minister Modi arrived in Kampala, Uganda and held delegation-level talks with Ugandan President, Yoweri Museveni. The former had said India would continue to play a stable partner in Uganda`s journey towards development. While addressing the Parliament of Uganda, the Prime Minister said that India felt "proud" to be Africa`s partner as India`s story of freedom struggle was "intimately" linked to the continent. On Wednesday, Prime Minister Modi arrived in South Africa to participate in the BRICS summit. India signed several MoUs in the fields of education, skill, health, and agriculture with South Africa. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Prime Minister Modi stressed on the need for BRICS cooperation for global portable social security framework, intended to benefit nearly 215 million people who were working outside their nations. On the second day of the summit, Prime Minister Modi said that India intended to closely work with BRICS nations on the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is the fourth major industrial era after the initial Industrial Revolution of the 18th century. It is characterised by a fusion of technologies that is blurring the lines between the physical, digital and biological spheres. Prime Minister Modi also held separate bilateral meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the summit. On the last day of the BRICS summit, Prime Minister Modi re-affirmed India`s support to African countries. He emphasised the need for fostering peace and development in the African counties.The theme of this year`s BRICS summit was - `BRICS in Africa - collaboration for inclusive growth and shared prosperity in the Fourth Industrial Revolution`.

PM Narendra Modi arrives in India after 3-nation visit

The Delhi government on Saturday issued a warning after water levels of the Yamuna river crossed the danger mark and is expected to rise further, prompting authorities to issue advisory to take appropriate measures to avoid flood-like situation, officials said.&nbsp;

The river is currently flowing at 204.92 meters, which is 0.09 metres more than the danger level and&nbsp;is expected to rise further to 205.40 m from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm today.

Rising water level in Yamuna can be a problem for people residing near the riverbed. Around 15,000-20,000 people are living in slums on the bank of the Yamuna.&nbsp;

The Irrigation and Flood Control Department of the city government has made preparations to evacuate 100 people residing in low-lying areas.&nbsp;43 boats have been deployed for rescue and relief operations.

"The Water Level of River Yamuna at Delhi Old Rly Bridge reached at 204.10 metres at 7 PM on July 27 (above the warning level) and having rising trend," a statement issued by the East Delhi district administration said.

"All the EEs (Executive Engineers)/ sector officers are directed to keep in close contact with the control room in relation to the discharge, water level at ORB (Old Railway Bridge) and the advisory or forecast from CWC (Central Water Commission)/MET, and requested to take appropriate measures/steps accordingly to avoid flood-like situation," it said.

"The CWC, Upper Yamuna Division, New Delhi has issued flood forecast for the Delhi Railway Bridge (North Delhi Dt NCT, Delhi). The water level of river Yamuna at Delhi Rly Bridge was 205 metres at 9 AM on July 28 (warning level 204.00 m)," the advisory said.

A low-pressure area over western Uttar Pradesh and its neighbourhood persist.&nbsp;

This system will bring widespread rainfall with isolated 'heavy to very heavy rainfall' over Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and northwest Madhya Pradesh during the next two days, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.

The state is also witnessing continuous heavy downpour since yesterday. Heavy rains have already disrupted normal lives in the capital and NCR region. Several reports of waterlogging and traffic congestion have been reported.&nbsp;

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Yamuna river flowing over danger mark in Delhi; Visuals from Old Iron Bridge near Kashmere Gate. 43 boats have been deployed for rescue and relief operations. <a href="https://t.co/ndqv9kC3zT">pic.twitter.com/ndqv9kC3zT</a>
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Delhi: Water level in Yamuna river increases following rainfall; Visuals from Yamuna Ghat. Yesterday, 1,15,000 cusec of water was released from Haryana's Hathini Kund Barrage. <a href="https://t.co/3PieLj1blz">pic.twitter.com/3PieLj1blz</a>
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&nbsp;

The river is currently flowing at 204.92 meters, which is 0.09 metres more than the danger level, news agency ANI said.

The Delhi government on Saturday issued a warning after water levels of the Yamuna river crossed the danger mark and is expected to rise further, prompting authorities to issue advisory to take appropriate measures to avoid flood-like situation, officials said. The river is currently flowing at 204.92 meters, which is 0.09 metres more than the danger level and is expected to rise further to 205.40 m from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm today. Rising water level in Yamuna can be a problem for people residing near the riverbed. Around 15,000-20,000 people are living in slums on the bank of the Yamuna. The Irrigation and Flood Control Department of the city government has made preparations to evacuate 100 people residing in low-lying areas. 43 boats have been deployed for rescue and relief operations. "The Water Level of River Yamuna at Delhi Old Rly Bridge reached at 204.10 metres at 7 PM on July 27 (above the warning level) and having rising trend," a statement issued by the East Delhi district administration said. "All the EEs (Executive Engineers)/ sector officers are directed to keep in close contact with the control room in relation to the discharge, water level at ORB (Old Railway Bridge) and the advisory or forecast from CWC (Central Water Commission)/MET, and requested to take appropriate measures/steps accordingly to avoid flood-like situation," it said. "The CWC, Upper Yamuna Division, New Delhi has issued flood forecast for the Delhi Railway Bridge (North Delhi Dt NCT, Delhi). The water level of river Yamuna at Delhi Rly Bridge was 205 metres at 9 AM on July 28 (warning level 204.00 m)," the advisory said. A low-pressure area over western Uttar Pradesh and its neighbourhood persist. This system will bring widespread rainfall with isolated 'heavy to very heavy rainfall' over Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and northwest Madhya Pradesh during the next two days, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said. The state is also witnessing continuous heavy downpour since yesterday. Heavy rains have already disrupted normal lives in the capital and NCR region. Several reports of waterlogging and traffic congestion have been reported. Yamuna river flowing over danger mark in Delhi; Visuals from Old Iron Bridge near Kashmere Gate. 43 boats have been deployed for rescue and relief operations. pic.twitter.com/ndqv9kC3zT — ANI (@ANI) July 28, 2018 × Delhi: Water level in Yamuna river increases following rainfall; Visuals from Yamuna Ghat. Yesterday, 1,15,000 cusec of water was released from Haryana's Hathini Kund Barrage. pic.twitter.com/3PieLj1blz — ANI (@ANI) July 28, 2018 ×

Yamuna water level crosses danger mark, Delhi government issues warning

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Saturday that talks with Mamata Banerjee are underway for a possible coalition to 'take on BJP in the general elections.'

"The question you asked about Mamata didi's proposal, is what we're discussing - how best can regional parties come together to take on BJP in general elections. No effort towards opposition unity will succeed unless Congress is able to fight BJP in the way we hope," Abdullah told ANI.&nbsp;

He further said that a number of efforts are being made by Congress' Sonia Gandhi to get the parties together.&nbsp;

"It's an ongoing conversation. You have seen a number of efforts made particularly by Sonia Gandhi to bring opposition parties together. As we get closer to the general election in 2019 I'm sure it'll take on a greater shape," he said.&nbsp;

Abdullah met West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday and the duo endorsed the need for the formation of a grand alliance of Opposition parties against the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha election.&nbsp;

Omar said that it was important for all like-minded parties to join hands to take the fight to the BJP.

"There are parties that have a leadership role in their particular areas. For example, take my party and Mamata Didi's party, we don't have any differences. But going ahead, other parties will have to be included. We will try our best to set our differences aside and put the best foot forward in terms of taking the fight to the BJP," Abdullah told the media.

Meanwhile, Mamata stressed on the need of all regional parties working together, saying, "Please don't pick and choose the individual names to divide us. All regional parties have to work together against BJP. Our intention is very clear. It's a fight for 2019 against BJP."

Discussions were also held between the two leaders regarding the prevailing situation of Jammu and Kashmir (J-K), with Abdullah saying that Mamata has always been concerned about the state, particularly about the economic activity and Jammu and Kashmir's tourism.

Abdullah met West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday and the duo endorsed the need for the formation of a grand alliance of Opposition parties against the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha election.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Saturday that talks with Mamata Banerjee are underway for a possible coalition to 'take on BJP in the general elections.' "The question you asked about Mamata didi's proposal, is what we're discussing - how best can regional parties come together to take on BJP in general elections. No effort towards opposition unity will succeed unless Congress is able to fight BJP in the way we hope," Abdullah told ANI. He further said that a number of efforts are being made by Congress' Sonia Gandhi to get the parties together. "It's an ongoing conversation. You have seen a number of efforts made particularly by Sonia Gandhi to bring opposition parties together. As we get closer to the general election in 2019 I'm sure it'll take on a greater shape," he said. Abdullah met West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday and the duo endorsed the need for the formation of a grand alliance of Opposition parties against the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha election. Omar said that it was important for all like-minded parties to join hands to take the fight to the BJP. "There are parties that have a leadership role in their particular areas. For example, take my party and Mamata Didi's party, we don't have any differences. But going ahead, other parties will have to be included. We will try our best to set our differences aside and put the best foot forward in terms of taking the fight to the BJP," Abdullah told the media. Meanwhile, Mamata stressed on the need of all regional parties working together, saying, "Please don't pick and choose the individual names to divide us. All regional parties have to work together against BJP. Our intention is very clear. It's a fight for 2019 against BJP." Discussions were also held between the two leaders regarding the prevailing situation of Jammu and Kashmir (J-K), with Abdullah saying that Mamata has always been concerned about the state, particularly about the economic activity and Jammu and Kashmir's tourism.

Discussion on how regional parties can take on BJP underway: Omar Abdullah

DMK leader Kanimozhi on Saturday said that her father's health condition has improved and added that&nbsp;blood pressure has stabilised.&nbsp;

''He is better. His blood pressure has stabilised,'' she was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

Following Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit, Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad visited Karunanidhi at Kauvery Hospital as anxious supporters gathered outside Kauvery Hospital in Chennai. The Governor also met MK Stalin, DMK working president and son of M Karunanidhi, at the hospital&nbsp;and inquired about his health, news agency ANI reported.

DMK leader and former Tamil Nadu chief minister M Karunanidhi was rushed to hospital from Gopalapuram residence in Chennai around 1:30 AM on Saturday following a sudden drop in blood pressure. &nbsp;

The DMK Chief has been admitted to Kauvery hospital's Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;

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Chennai: Tamil Nadu governor Banwarilal Purohit visits DMK President M Karunanidhi at Kauvery Hospital who was admitted to the hospital late last night following drop in blood pressure. <a href="https://t.co/1bBRDIXLwb">pic.twitter.com/1bBRDIXLwb</a>
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The nonagenarian leader was suffering from fever and infection for the past few days and was being treated round-the-clock by a team of hospitals and nursing professionals at his house. &nbsp;

Soon after, the hospital released a statement saying that Karunanidhi's blood pressure was stabilised with medical help, adding that he was under observation.

"DMK President and former chief minister of Tamil Nadu, Kalaignar Dr M Karunanidhi has been admitted on July 28 at 1:30 am in the ICU of Kauvery Hopsital following a drop in blood pressure. His blood pressure has been stabilised with medical management and he continues to be monitored and treated by the panel of expert doctors," Dr Aravindan Selvaraj, Executive Director of Kauvery Hospital, said in a statement.

DMK leader A Raja, who is present at the hospital, also reiterated the same and added that the party chief is now out of danger.

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Chennai: Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit met MK Stalin at Kauvery Hospital today, where DMK President M Karunanidhi was admitted late last night. <a href="https://t.co/iu8bmJGiBy">pic.twitter.com/iu8bmJGiBy</a>
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TNCC chief S Thirunavukkarasar also visited the Hospital and said &nbsp;Karunanidhi was reacting well to treatment. Congress leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad and Mukul Wasnik will be visiting Karunanidhi later in the day, he informed.

The DMK patriarch yesterday crossed a milestone when he became the first leader to enter the 50th year as president of a party.

The former Chief Minister was elected party president on July 27, 1969. Five months earlier, on February 10, 1969, he was elected the legislature party leader of the DMK and became the Chief Minister of the State following the death of party founder CN Annadurai.

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Chennai: DMK supporters continue to gather outside Kauvery Hospital, where DMK President M Karunanidhi is admitted. <a href="https://t.co/vTd2ygzhwX">pic.twitter.com/vTd2ygzhwX</a>
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&nbsp;

The DMK Chief has been admitted to Kauvery hospital's Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

DMK leader Kanimozhi on Saturday said that her father's health condition has improved and added that blood pressure has stabilised. ''He is better. His blood pressure has stabilised,'' she was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. Following Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit, Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad visited Karunanidhi at Kauvery Hospital as anxious supporters gathered outside Kauvery Hospital in Chennai. The Governor also met MK Stalin, DMK working president and son of M Karunanidhi, at the hospital and inquired about his health, news agency ANI reported. DMK leader and former Tamil Nadu chief minister M Karunanidhi was rushed to hospital from Gopalapuram residence in Chennai around 1:30 AM on Saturday following a sudden drop in blood pressure. The DMK Chief has been admitted to Kauvery hospital's Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Chennai: Tamil Nadu governor Banwarilal Purohit visits DMK President M Karunanidhi at Kauvery Hospital who was admitted to the hospital late last night following drop in blood pressure. pic.twitter.com/1bBRDIXLwb — ANI (@ANI) July 28, 2018 × The nonagenarian leader was suffering from fever and infection for the past few days and was being treated round-the-clock by a team of hospitals and nursing professionals at his house. Soon after, the hospital released a statement saying that Karunanidhi's blood pressure was stabilised with medical help, adding that he was under observation. "DMK President and former chief minister of Tamil Nadu, Kalaignar Dr M Karunanidhi has been admitted on July 28 at 1:30 am in the ICU of Kauvery Hopsital following a drop in blood pressure. His blood pressure has been stabilised with medical management and he continues to be monitored and treated by the panel of expert doctors," Dr Aravindan Selvaraj, Executive Director of Kauvery Hospital, said in a statement. DMK leader A Raja, who is present at the hospital, also reiterated the same and added that the party chief is now out of danger. Chennai: Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit met MK Stalin at Kauvery Hospital today, where DMK President M Karunanidhi was admitted late last night. pic.twitter.com/iu8bmJGiBy — ANI (@ANI) July 28, 2018 × TNCC chief S Thirunavukkarasar also visited the Hospital and said Karunanidhi was reacting well to treatment. Congress leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad and Mukul Wasnik will be visiting Karunanidhi later in the day, he informed. The DMK patriarch yesterday crossed a milestone when he became the first leader to enter the 50th year as president of a party. The former Chief Minister was elected party president on July 27, 1969. Five months earlier, on February 10, 1969, he was elected the legislature party leader of the DMK and became the Chief Minister of the State following the death of party founder CN Annadurai. Chennai: DMK supporters continue to gather outside Kauvery Hospital, where DMK President M Karunanidhi is admitted. pic.twitter.com/vTd2ygzhwX — ANI (@ANI) July 28, 2018 ×

Karunanidhi's health condition is better, blood pressure has stabilised: DMK leader Kanimozhi

A local BJP leader in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district was hacked to death by unidentified miscreants in Mandir Bazar area of the district, police said today.

Shaktipada Sardar (45), the secretary of BJP Mandal committee of Mandira Bazar-Dhanurhat area was returning home last night when miscreants attacked him with sharp weapon and left him bleeding on the road, they said.

The local people spotted Sardar lying on the road and rushed him to Diamond Harbour Hospital.

As his condition deteriorated, the hospital referred him to a hospital in Kolkata. However, Sardar died while being taken to a hospital in Kolkata, they said.

Police said they have started an investigation into the matter.

The BJP alleged that Sardar was killed by Trinamool Congress goons.

The Trinamool Congress has denied the BJP allegations.

Shaktipada Sardar (45), the secretary of BJP Mandal committee of Mandira Bazar-Dhanurhat area was returning home last night when miscreants attacked him with sharp weapon and left him bleeding on the road, they said.

A local BJP leader in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district was hacked to death by unidentified miscreants in Mandir Bazar area of the district, police said today. Shaktipada Sardar (45), the secretary of BJP Mandal committee of Mandira Bazar-Dhanurhat area was returning home last night when miscreants attacked him with sharp weapon and left him bleeding on the road, they said. The local people spotted Sardar lying on the road and rushed him to Diamond Harbour Hospital. As his condition deteriorated, the hospital referred him to a hospital in Kolkata. However, Sardar died while being taken to a hospital in Kolkata, they said. Police said they have started an investigation into the matter. The BJP alleged that Sardar was killed by Trinamool Congress goons. The Trinamool Congress has denied the BJP allegations.

After Bengal BJP leader hacked to death, party points finger at Trinamool

WION spoke to Salman Khurshid on newly elected Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan.

WION Exclusive: Khurshid on Imran's early days at Oxford

This is a segment of WION which talks about heavy rains. Rains have flood Delhi and its adjourning areas. Watch this video for more information.

Heavy rains flood Delhi and its adjourning areas

A society has been set up in Singapore in honour of former Indian president Dr APJ Abdul Kalam and to advance his vision for the world. The Abdul Kalam Vision Society (AKVS) will organise knowledge-enhancing events, lectures and essay competition to convey the ideas and values that Dr Kalam espoused.&nbsp

Nearly 400 people, including the late president's scientific adviser Dr V Ponraj, attended the launch of the society on July 21.

He (Dr Kalam) gave sustainable solutions to many of the world's problems in areas such as healthcare, environment, agriculture, energy, water and infrastructure, Dr Ponraj recalled and hoped that the AKVS would play a vital part in making the vision of the former president a reality.&nbsp

Indian High Commissioner to Singapore Jawed Ashraf, who officiated the launch, proposed organising knowledge-based events, including annual distinguished lectures and essay competition for school students here.

Singapore's former Indian-origin diplomat K Kesavapany highlighted many of the values that Dr Kalam espoused, such as meritocracy, religious harmony, tackling income inequality, science for the benefit of society and inspiring youth.&nbspThese values are in line with those of Singapore's, he said.&nbsp

Dr Kalam's inspirational life in itself is a great lesson. He was not only the leader of India. He was a world leader, there is much for Singaporeans to learn from his teachings, values and life. And that would be the objective of this organisation, said Kesavapany, who is also the AKVS president.&nbsp

Dr Kalam grew up from a humble background to become an eminent space scientist and occupied India's highest office. July 27 marks the third anniversary of his passing.

Dr Kalam grew up from a humble background to become an eminent space scientist and occupied India's highest office. July 27 marks the third anniversary of his passing.

A society has been set up in Singapore in honour of former Indian president Dr APJ Abdul Kalam and to advance his vision for the world. The Abdul Kalam Vision Society (AKVS) will organise knowledge-enhancing events, lectures and essay competition to convey the ideas and values that Dr Kalam espoused. Nearly 400 people, including the late president's scientific adviser Dr V Ponraj, attended the launch of the society on July 21. He (Dr Kalam) gave sustainable solutions to many of the world's problems in areas such as healthcare, environment, agriculture, energy, water and infrastructure, Dr Ponraj recalled and hoped that the AKVS would play a vital part in making the vision of the former president a reality. Indian High Commissioner to Singapore Jawed Ashraf, who officiated the launch, proposed organising knowledge-based events, including annual distinguished lectures and essay competition for school students here. Singapore's former Indian-origin diplomat K Kesavapany highlighted many of the values that Dr Kalam espoused, such as meritocracy, religious harmony, tackling income inequality, science for the benefit of society and inspiring youth.&nbspThese values are in line with those of Singapore's, he said. Dr Kalam's inspirational life in itself is a great lesson. He was not only the leader of India. He was a world leader, there is much for Singaporeans to learn from his teachings, values and life. And that would be the objective of this organisation, said Kesavapany, who is also the AKVS president. Dr Kalam grew up from a humble background to become an eminent space scientist and occupied India's highest office. July 27 marks the third anniversary of his passing.

Society to advance Abdul Kalam's vision set up in Singapore

Prime Minister Modi today held a meeting with the Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in South Africa.

The meeting between the two leaders is expected to resolve the ties that Indian and China developed during the Doklam issue.

Speaking about the meeting, Foreign Secretary V Gokhale said, "Both PM Modi and President Xi Jinping have reaffirmed once again their readiness to give the necessary direction to their militaries to enhance communications between them and to maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas".

He further added, "An important issue which PM Modi has raised with President Jinping at his previous meetings is how to enhance Indian exports to China, particularly agricultural exports. It has been decided that an Indian trade delegation will be travelling to China on August 1 and 2."

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Both PM Modi and President Xi Jinping have reaffirmed once again their readiness to give the necessary direction to their militaries to enhance communications between them and to maintain peace and tranquility in the border areas: Vijay Gokhale, Foreign Secretary <a href="https://t.co/eO3WLsSynE">pic.twitter.com/eO3WLsSynE</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1022556221591773186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The two leaders earlier met in June in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in China.&nbsp;

The meeting of Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Jinping also comes three months after the informal summit held in China's Wuhan city.

At the Wuhan meeting, the two leaders discussed&nbsp;views on solidifying the bilateral relationship between&nbsp;India and China.

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Furthering India-China friendship. PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and President Xi Jinping hold talks on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in South Africa. <a href="https://t.co/podkGC4991">pic.twitter.com/podkGC4991</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1022535602514866176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, the Prime Minister also met with President of South Africa Cyril Ramphosa.

He is also slated to meet the Russian President Vladimir Putin later in the summit.

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Beginning the bilateral meetings with President <a href="https://twitter.com/CyrilRamaphosa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CyrilRamaphosa</a>. The two leaders had a fruitful meeting in Johannesburg. <a href="https://t.co/CGKtBjgVzx">pic.twitter.com/CGKtBjgVzx</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1022515903290908672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The theme of this year's summit is "BRICS in Africa - collaboration for inclusive growth and shared prosperity in the 4th industrial revolution".

Besides Prime Minister Modi, heads of the four other BRICS nations - Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa - will take part in the meeting.

The three-day summit began yesterday with the BRICS Business Forum Meet.

&nbsp;

The two leaders earlier met in June in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in China

Prime Minister Modi today held a meeting with the Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in South Africa. The meeting between the two leaders is expected to resolve the ties that Indian and China developed during the Doklam issue. Speaking about the meeting, Foreign Secretary V Gokhale said, "Both PM Modi and President Xi Jinping have reaffirmed once again their readiness to give the necessary direction to their militaries to enhance communications between them and to maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas". He further added, "An important issue which PM Modi has raised with President Jinping at his previous meetings is how to enhance Indian exports to China, particularly agricultural exports. It has been decided that an Indian trade delegation will be travelling to China on August 1 and 2." Both PM Modi and President Xi Jinping have reaffirmed once again their readiness to give the necessary direction to their militaries to enhance communications between them and to maintain peace and tranquility in the border areas: Vijay Gokhale, Foreign Secretary pic.twitter.com/eO3WLsSynE — ANI (@ANI) July 26, 2018 × The two leaders earlier met in June in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in China. The meeting of Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Jinping also comes three months after the informal summit held in China's Wuhan city. At the Wuhan meeting, the two leaders discussed views on solidifying the bilateral relationship between India and China. Furthering India-China friendship. PM @narendramodi and President Xi Jinping hold talks on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in South Africa. pic.twitter.com/podkGC4991 — PMO India (@PMOIndia) July 26, 2018 × Earlier, the Prime Minister also met with President of South Africa Cyril Ramphosa. He is also slated to meet the Russian President Vladimir Putin later in the summit. Beginning the bilateral meetings with President @CyrilRamaphosa. The two leaders had a fruitful meeting in Johannesburg. pic.twitter.com/CGKtBjgVzx — PMO India (@PMOIndia) July 26, 2018 × The theme of this year's summit is "BRICS in Africa - collaboration for inclusive growth and shared prosperity in the 4th industrial revolution". Besides Prime Minister Modi, heads of the four other BRICS nations - Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa - will take part in the meeting. The three-day summit began yesterday with the BRICS Business Forum Meet.

PM Modi meets Chinese President Xi Jinping on sidelines of BRICS Summit

The Foreign Office on Wednesday told the Indian media to stop spewing in Pakistan's general elections which were held on July 25, saying that they should focus on internal matters, reports said.&nbsp;

The spokesperson asked the Indian media and politicians to focus attention on their internal issues, rather than meddling into affairs of neighboring countries.

The latest elections saw an unprecedented participation from women in Pakistan. While the low number is momentous considering the country’s history, what followed on social media was severe backlash in the form of sexism.&nbsp;

Many users in India started comparing the Pakistan candidates with leaders at home.&nbsp;

The foreign office also asked India to "stop propagating venomous propaganda against Pakistan," local reports said.&nbsp;

The statement also comes following numerous media reports about the leading party and its leader, Imran Khan, in the general elections.&nbsp;

This is what Twitterati had to say:&nbsp;

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Pakistan women contesting elections 
v/s Indian women contesting elections... 
 
Now we know why Shashi Tharoor wants <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaPakistan?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaPakistan</a> ?? <a href="https://t.co/qrzwW5CuHl">pic.twitter.com/qrzwW5CuHl</a>
— Nimbu Masala ???? (@NimbuMassala) <a href="https://twitter.com/NimbuMassala/status/1021020622825062400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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First 2 Paki women politicians and last 2 Indian. 
No wonder these JNU ites want to go to Pakistan <a href="https://t.co/3oMmFMP7Ij">pic.twitter.com/3oMmFMP7Ij</a>
— N (@NiSharma12) <a href="https://twitter.com/NiSharma12/status/1021361762527055872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Rigged <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ElectionResults?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ElectionResults</a> now confirms that <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistani?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistani</a> army is now official caretaker of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a>. Army will help <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a> to shore numbers to make him PM.Hafiz/Salahudin will dictate terms.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> will witness more terrorist attack & internal violence <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanElections2018</a>
— Ajay Misri (@ajay_misri) <a href="https://twitter.com/ajay_misri/status/1022165904791101445?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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No matter who wins in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanElections2018</a>, be assured Pakistan Army & ISI will continue calling the shots on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kashmir</a> & cross-border terrorism in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>. But if <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a> wins, expect more turmoil & conflict in the entire Indian subcontinent.
— Aarti Tikoo Singh (@AartiTikoo) <a href="https://twitter.com/AartiTikoo/status/1022016329203769345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The spokesperson asked the Indian media and politicians to focus attention on their internal issues, rather than meddling into affairs of neighboring countries.

The Foreign Office on Wednesday told the Indian media to stop spewing in Pakistan's general elections which were held on July 25, saying that they should focus on internal matters, reports said. The spokesperson asked the Indian media and politicians to focus attention on their internal issues, rather than meddling into affairs of neighboring countries. The latest elections saw an unprecedented participation from women in Pakistan. While the low number is momentous considering the country’s history, what followed on social media was severe backlash in the form of sexism. Many users in India started comparing the Pakistan candidates with leaders at home. The foreign office also asked India to "stop propagating venomous propaganda against Pakistan," local reports said. The statement also comes following numerous media reports about the leading party and its leader, Imran Khan, in the general elections. This is what Twitterati had to say: Pakistan women contesting elections v/s Indian women contesting elections... Now we know why Shashi Tharoor wants #IndiaPakistan ?? pic.twitter.com/qrzwW5CuHl — Nimbu Masala ???? (@NimbuMassala) July 22, 2018 × First 2 Paki women politicians and last 2 Indian. No wonder these JNU ites want to go to Pakistan pic.twitter.com/3oMmFMP7Ij — N (@NiSharma12) July 23, 2018 × Rigged #ElectionResults now confirms that #Pakistani army is now official caretaker of #Pakistan. Army will help @ImranKhanPTI to shore numbers to make him PM.Hafiz/Salahudin will dictate terms.#India will witness more terrorist attack & internal violence #PakistanElections2018 — Ajay Misri (@ajay_misri) July 25, 2018 × No matter who wins in #PakistanElections2018, be assured Pakistan Army & ISI will continue calling the shots on #Kashmir & cross-border terrorism in #India. But if @ImranKhanPTI wins, expect more turmoil & conflict in the entire Indian subcontinent. — Aarti Tikoo Singh (@AartiTikoo) July 25, 2018 ×

India should focus on internal matters, not propagate poisonous information: Pak foreign office

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will meet National Conference leader Omar Abdullah tomorrow, amid speculations over the formation of a grand alliance of Opposition parties against the BJP in the next Lok Sabha election.

According to a senior Trinamool Congress leader, the former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir will come to West Bengal tomorrow. The meeting is scheduled to take place at the Bengal administration headquarters.

Banerjee had recently accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of trying to create an "atmosphere of Talibani Hinduism and Talibani communalism" in the country, giving the call to oust the saffron party in the next Lok Sabha poll with the slogan "BJP hatao, desh bachao".

The TMC supremo, who has been a critic of the Narendra Modi government and its policies, has recently given the call for uniting all Opposition parties to oust the BJP government.

Last Saturday, addressing the annual TMC martyrs' day rally, Banerjee had said TMC would hold a mega rally of Opposition parties at the Brigade Parade ground here on January 19 to sound the poll bugle to capture power in Delhi. Opposition party leaders from across the country would be invited to the rally, she had said.

The two leaders will meet amid speculations over the formation of a grand alliance of Opposition parties against the BJP in the next Lok Sabha election.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will meet National Conference leader Omar Abdullah tomorrow, amid speculations over the formation of a grand alliance of Opposition parties against the BJP in the next Lok Sabha election. According to a senior Trinamool Congress leader, the former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir will come to West Bengal tomorrow. The meeting is scheduled to take place at the Bengal administration headquarters. Banerjee had recently accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of trying to create an "atmosphere of Talibani Hinduism and Talibani communalism" in the country, giving the call to oust the saffron party in the next Lok Sabha poll with the slogan "BJP hatao, desh bachao". The TMC supremo, who has been a critic of the Narendra Modi government and its policies, has recently given the call for uniting all Opposition parties to oust the BJP government. Last Saturday, addressing the annual TMC martyrs' day rally, Banerjee had said TMC would hold a mega rally of Opposition parties at the Brigade Parade ground here on January 19 to sound the poll bugle to capture power in Delhi. Opposition party leaders from across the country would be invited to the rally, she had said.

Amid speculation of grand alliance, Omar Abdullah to meet Mamata Banerjee Friday

The Supreme Court today slammed the Centre, the Uttar Pradesh government and Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ) authority for their failure to restore the pristine glory of Taj Mahal and asked what would happen if UNESCO withdraws the world heritage site tag of the iconic monument.

The apex court came down heavily on the Uttar Pradesh government for filing a draft report of the vision document on protection of the Taj Mahal and observed it was "surprising" that the Archeological Survey of India (ASI), which was responsible for preservation of the ivory white marble mausoleum, was not even consulted in the process.

A bench of justices Madan B Lokur and Deepak Gupta also wondered as to how 1,167 polluting industries were operating in the TTZ area and said that the TTZ authority, which was set up following an apex court order of 1996, was a "flop" and it appeared that a 'tamasha' (drama) was going on in the matter.

TTZ is an area of about 10,400 sq km spread over the districts of Agra, Firozabad, Mathura, Hathras and Etah in Uttar Pradesh and Bharatpur district of Rajasthan.

"The UNESCO's world heritage centre is in Paris. Have you been filing management plan (of Taj Mahal) before the world heritage centre of UNESCO? This is not being filed. What will happen if the UNESCO says that we will withdraw the world heritage tag of Taj Mahal," the bench asked Attorney General K K Venugopal.

Responding to it, Venugopal said, "It will be great, great embarrassment for the country" and "we cannot afford to get it (Taj Mahal) removed from the list of UNESCO's world heritage site".

The bench, while making it clear that somebody has to take responsibility for protection of the Taj Mahal, asked the Attorney General to "categorically and unequivocally" apprise the court by July 30 as to which departments of the Centre and Uttar Pradesh government would be responsible for maintenance and protection of TTZ.

It also directed the authorities to inform it by July 30 about the short term measures which were essential and needed to be acted upon immediately for protection of Taj Mahal and TTZ.

"We would also like to know from the government of India whether the authorities have submitted the management plan to the world heritage centre of UNESCO at Paris for Taj Mahal," it said.

The bench came down heavily on TTZ authority and said it has done nothing and the situation would not have become so serious if the authority would have done its work properly.

At the outset, the bench pulled up the Uttar Pradesh government for filing a draft report of the vision document and asked whether the apex court was supposed to vet it.&nbsp;

"Why have you given a draft plan? Are we supposed to vet it for you? Is it our job to vet it," the bench said, adding, "What is this going on? Are we supposed to correct your draft report?".

"Is this the kind of concern which you are showing? What is this happening?," the bench said.

Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Tushar Mehta, who was appearing for the state, said that the draft report of vision document was prepared as per the apex court's directive and it was prepared by School of Planning and Architecture in Delhi and not be the Uttar Pradesh government.

"The attempt is to show our bonafide. Now, there will be consultations on it and within a period stipulated by the court, the final report will be prepared," the ASG said.

The bench then referred to an affidavit filed by TTZ and told Venugopal, "It says 1,167 polluting industries are right there. This is the figure by the officials".

The Attorney General said these industries were running on "clean fuel" and told the bench that draft report was prepared as per court's direction and the apex court should tell the authorities as to what they should do.

"Frankly, what the Supreme Court has undertaken is so massive," he told the bench and said tremendous efforts were put in for preparing the draft report and Rs 28 lakh was spent for it.

When the bench observed that it was only a draft report and it could be changed later, Venugopal said, "it cannot be in a final form as other stakeholders can give their suggestions on it".

"You are not doing us a favour. Let's be clear about it," the bench said.

During the hearing, the bench took exception that affidavits were filed in the matter by Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the TTZ authority and other agencies.

The top court also said that the draft report be supplied to a panel of conservation experts, including INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage), ICOMOS (The International Council on Monuments and Sites) and the Aga Khan Foundation, so that they could also give their comments and suggestions on the draft report within four weeks.

It said that draft report be supplied to environmentalist M C Mehta, the petitioner in the case, so that he could also give his suggestions.

The court has posted the matter for hearing with regard to draft report on August 28.

The apex court has been monitoring development in the area to protect the Taj Mahal, built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal at Agra.

Its construction was completed in 1643 but work continued on other phases of the project for another 10 years. The ivory white marble mausoleum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Supreme Court today slammed the Centre, the Uttar Pradesh government and Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ) authority for their failure to restore the pristine glory of Taj Mahal and asked what would happen if UNESCO withdraws the world heritage site tag of the iconic monument

The Supreme Court today slammed the Centre, the Uttar Pradesh government and Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ) authority for their failure to restore the pristine glory of Taj Mahal and asked what would happen if UNESCO withdraws the world heritage site tag of the iconic monument. The apex court came down heavily on the Uttar Pradesh government for filing a draft report of the vision document on protection of the Taj Mahal and observed it was "surprising" that the Archeological Survey of India (ASI), which was responsible for preservation of the ivory white marble mausoleum, was not even consulted in the process. A bench of justices Madan B Lokur and Deepak Gupta also wondered as to how 1,167 polluting industries were operating in the TTZ area and said that the TTZ authority, which was set up following an apex court order of 1996, was a "flop" and it appeared that a 'tamasha' (drama) was going on in the matter. TTZ is an area of about 10,400 sq km spread over the districts of Agra, Firozabad, Mathura, Hathras and Etah in Uttar Pradesh and Bharatpur district of Rajasthan. "The UNESCO's world heritage centre is in Paris. Have you been filing management plan (of Taj Mahal) before the world heritage centre of UNESCO? This is not being filed. What will happen if the UNESCO says that we will withdraw the world heritage tag of Taj Mahal," the bench asked Attorney General K K Venugopal. Responding to it, Venugopal said, "It will be great, great embarrassment for the country" and "we cannot afford to get it (Taj Mahal) removed from the list of UNESCO's world heritage site". The bench, while making it clear that somebody has to take responsibility for protection of the Taj Mahal, asked the Attorney General to "categorically and unequivocally" apprise the court by July 30 as to which departments of the Centre and Uttar Pradesh government would be responsible for maintenance and protection of TTZ. It also directed the authorities to inform it by July 30 about the short term measures which were essential and needed to be acted upon immediately for protection of Taj Mahal and TTZ. "We would also like to know from the government of India whether the authorities have submitted the management plan to the world heritage centre of UNESCO at Paris for Taj Mahal," it said. The bench came down heavily on TTZ authority and said it has done nothing and the situation would not have become so serious if the authority would have done its work properly. At the outset, the bench pulled up the Uttar Pradesh government for filing a draft report of the vision document and asked whether the apex court was supposed to vet it. "Why have you given a draft plan? Are we supposed to vet it for you? Is it our job to vet it," the bench said, adding, "What is this going on? Are we supposed to correct your draft report?". "Is this the kind of concern which you are showing? What is this happening?," the bench said. Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Tushar Mehta, who was appearing for the state, said that the draft report of vision document was prepared as per the apex court's directive and it was prepared by School of Planning and Architecture in Delhi and not be the Uttar Pradesh government. "The attempt is to show our bonafide. Now, there will be consultations on it and within a period stipulated by the court, the final report will be prepared," the ASG said. The bench then referred to an affidavit filed by TTZ and told Venugopal, "It says 1,167 polluting industries are right there. This is the figure by the officials". The Attorney General said these industries were running on "clean fuel" and told the bench that draft report was prepared as per court's direction and the apex court should tell the authorities as to what they should do. "Frankly, what the Supreme Court has undertaken is so massive," he told the bench and said tremendous efforts were put in for preparing the draft report and Rs 28 lakh was spent for it. When the bench observed that it was only a draft report and it could be changed later, Venugopal said, "it cannot be in a final form as other stakeholders can give their suggestions on it". "You are not doing us a favour. Let's be clear about it," the bench said. During the hearing, the bench took exception that affidavits were filed in the matter by Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the TTZ authority and other agencies. The top court also said that the draft report be supplied to a panel of conservation experts, including INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage), ICOMOS (The International Council on Monuments and Sites) and the Aga Khan Foundation, so that they could also give their comments and suggestions on the draft report within four weeks. It said that draft report be supplied to environmentalist M C Mehta, the petitioner in the case, so that he could also give his suggestions. The court has posted the matter for hearing with regard to draft report on August 28. The apex court has been monitoring development in the area to protect the Taj Mahal, built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal at Agra. Its construction was completed in 1643 but work continued on other phases of the project for another 10 years. The ivory white marble mausoleum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Supreme Court: What if UNESCO withdraws Taj Mahal's world heritage tag?

An AIADMK delegation led by Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam today called on ailing DMK president M Karunanidhi at his residence here.

Panneerselvam and his cabinet colleague D Jayakumar said Karunanidhi was "doing well."

"Karunanidhi will return in good health soon," Jayakumar told reporters.

Jayakumar said it was political decency for the ruling party to visit Karunanidhi's residence, adding that a DMK delegation visited the Apollo hospitals here when former chief minister J Jayalalithaa was undergoing treatment in 2016.

The AIADMK delegation, which included ministers S P Velumani and P Thangamani, held discussions with Karunanidhi's son and working president M K Stalin.

Senior DMK leaders, including Duraimurugan and T R Baalu, were present during the meeting.

"There has been a slight decline in the health of DMK president M Karunanidhi due to age related ailments," a bulletin issued by Kauvery Hospital Executive Director Dr Aravindan Selvaraj earlier said.

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Deputy CM O. Panneerselvam along with other ministers met DMK's MK Stalin to inquire about DMK chief M. Karunanidhi's at latter's residence in Chennai. DMK chief is being treated for fever due to urinary tract infection& is being given hospital level treatment at home. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> <a href="https://t.co/DaAPpIWXzR">pic.twitter.com/DaAPpIWXzR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1022535917867855872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The 94-year-old leader is currently being treated for fever due to urinary tract infection with intravenous antibiotics and fluids.&nbsp;

The DMK chief is being treated for fever due to urinary tract infection and is being given hospital-level treatment at home

An AIADMK delegation led by Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam today called on ailing DMK president M Karunanidhi at his residence here. Panneerselvam and his cabinet colleague D Jayakumar said Karunanidhi was "doing well." "Karunanidhi will return in good health soon," Jayakumar told reporters. Jayakumar said it was political decency for the ruling party to visit Karunanidhi's residence, adding that a DMK delegation visited the Apollo hospitals here when former chief minister J Jayalalithaa was undergoing treatment in 2016. The AIADMK delegation, which included ministers S P Velumani and P Thangamani, held discussions with Karunanidhi's son and working president M K Stalin. Senior DMK leaders, including Duraimurugan and T R Baalu, were present during the meeting. "There has been a slight decline in the health of DMK president M Karunanidhi due to age related ailments," a bulletin issued by Kauvery Hospital Executive Director Dr Aravindan Selvaraj earlier said. Deputy CM O. Panneerselvam along with other ministers met DMK's MK Stalin to inquire about DMK chief M. Karunanidhi's at latter's residence in Chennai. DMK chief is being treated for fever due to urinary tract infection& is being given hospital level treatment at home. #TamilNadu pic.twitter.com/DaAPpIWXzR — ANI (@ANI) July 26, 2018 × The 94-year-old leader is currently being treated for fever due to urinary tract infection with intravenous antibiotics and fluids.

DMK chief Karunanidhi unwell, AIADMK leaders visit him at home

There is very little possibility of any improvement in New Delhi's ties with Islamabad if Imran Khan becomes Pakistan's prime minister as he has been "propped" by the Pakistani military, politicians and strategic affairs experts here said today.

Pakistan's powerful military is likely to continue its hostile approach towards India, including supporting terror activities in Jammu and Kashmir, if Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) wrests power as it is projected to, they said.

The flamboyant cricketer-turned-politician, 65, is set to become the next prime minister of Pakistan with his PTI emerging as the single largest party, but falling short of a majority.

Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and several other parties have questioned the outcome of the election results, alleging vote-rigging in favour of Khan by the Army.

"He (Khan) is the Army's man. He is expected to do what the Pakistani Army tells him to do," said former diplomat G Parthasarathy, who has served as India's high commissioner in Islamabad.

Echoing his views, Union minister R K Singh said there was no possibility of any change in Pakistan's policy of hostility towards India under Khan's leadership.&nbsp;

In his first public address to the nation after leading the PTI to victory in the elections held yesterday, Khan said Pakistan is willing to improve its ties with India. "If they take one step towards us, we will take two, but at least we need a start," Khan said. He also said Kashmir is the "core" issue between the two countries and it should be resolved through talks.

Ties between India and Pakistan have nose-dived in the last few years over cross-border terrorism. Relations worsened after terror attacks by Pakistan-based groups on several military bases in India.&nbsp;

New Delhi has been maintaining that Pakistan must stop terror activities from its soil for any meaningful talks between the two countries to resolve the outstanding issues.

"I do not think Pakistan will change its policy towards under Khan at all as he has been backed by Pakistan Army," said R K Singh.

K C Singh, another former diplomat, said there was not much possibility of improvement in ties between the two neighbours. With general elections scheduled in India in the next 10 months, the Modi government is unlikely to reach out to Islamabad for any engagement, he said.

"It is too early to talk about (the impact on India-Pakistan ties if Khan becomes PM). It will depend on who he chooses as coalition partners. It will depend on shape of his government," he said.&nbsp;

Former Army chief Gen Deepak Kapoor added that he does not expect Pakistan to stop its proxy war with India under Khan's leadership as he has been "propped" by the Pakistani military establishment. 
 
"They will continue with the proxy war. They will continue to create disturbances in Jammu and Kashmir. I do not think there will be any improvement in the relationship between the two countries," said Kapoor.&nbsp;

Sachin Chaturvedi, director general of the think-tank Research and Information System (RIS) said the Pakistani Army played a role in elections in that country but hoped Khan would show the courage in favouring good relations with India.

"It will be in the larger interests of people of Pakistan," he said.&nbsp;

Pakistan's powerful military is likely to continue its hostile approach towards India, including supporting terror activities in Jammu and Kashmir, the experts said

There is very little possibility of any improvement in New Delhi's ties with Islamabad if Imran Khan becomes Pakistan's prime minister as he has been "propped" by the Pakistani military, politicians and strategic affairs experts here said today. Pakistan's powerful military is likely to continue its hostile approach towards India, including supporting terror activities in Jammu and Kashmir, if Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) wrests power as it is projected to, they said. The flamboyant cricketer-turned-politician, 65, is set to become the next prime minister of Pakistan with his PTI emerging as the single largest party, but falling short of a majority. Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and several other parties have questioned the outcome of the election results, alleging vote-rigging in favour of Khan by the Army. "He (Khan) is the Army's man. He is expected to do what the Pakistani Army tells him to do," said former diplomat G Parthasarathy, who has served as India's high commissioner in Islamabad. Echoing his views, Union minister R K Singh said there was no possibility of any change in Pakistan's policy of hostility towards India under Khan's leadership. In his first public address to the nation after leading the PTI to victory in the elections held yesterday, Khan said Pakistan is willing to improve its ties with India. "If they take one step towards us, we will take two, but at least we need a start," Khan said. He also said Kashmir is the "core" issue between the two countries and it should be resolved through talks. Ties between India and Pakistan have nose-dived in the last few years over cross-border terrorism. Relations worsened after terror attacks by Pakistan-based groups on several military bases in India. New Delhi has been maintaining that Pakistan must stop terror activities from its soil for any meaningful talks between the two countries to resolve the outstanding issues. "I do not think Pakistan will change its policy towards under Khan at all as he has been backed by Pakistan Army," said R K Singh. K C Singh, another former diplomat, said there was not much possibility of improvement in ties between the two neighbours. With general elections scheduled in India in the next 10 months, the Modi government is unlikely to reach out to Islamabad for any engagement, he said. "It is too early to talk about (the impact on India-Pakistan ties if Khan becomes PM). It will depend on who he chooses as coalition partners. It will depend on shape of his government," he said. Former Army chief Gen Deepak Kapoor added that he does not expect Pakistan to stop its proxy war with India under Khan's leadership as he has been "propped" by the Pakistani military establishment. "They will continue with the proxy war. They will continue to create disturbances in Jammu and Kashmir. I do not think there will be any improvement in the relationship between the two countries," said Kapoor. Sachin Chaturvedi, director general of the think-tank Research and Information System (RIS) said the Pakistani Army played a role in elections in that country but hoped Khan would show the courage in favouring good relations with India. "It will be in the larger interests of people of Pakistan," he said.

Imran propped up by Pak Army, don't expect any change in approach to India: Experts

At a time when militancy is rising in Kashmir, the likelihood of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief Imran Khan becoming the&nbsp;Prime Minister has complicated the matter further. 
 
The prospect of Imran Khan as the Prime Minister surprises not many as he has emerged as military-backed candidate in Pakistan. With him, the Pakistan army has achieved its four fundamental goals:

<ul>
	<li>To convince the world that Pakistan is a democratic country, while ruling the country through the proxy of elected civilian government</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>To finish off the political legacy of Nawaz Sharif 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>To send across the message that supremacy of military establishment is intact as it can decisively shape the outcome of election result&nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>To convey a message to India that it’s the Pakistan army that is the real stake holder on the matters related to national security and Kashmir</li>
</ul>

India is now faced with a very unpleasant regional scenario - Imran Khan with a history of &nbsp;hobnobbing with fundamentalist cum terrorist forces in North Western region of Pakistan on the one hand, and unpredictable Donald trump on the other. 
 
Under no circumstances Trump can be trusted as a well wisher or an ally of India given the history of his contradictory statements and position on the range of issues. Moreover, China remains an “all weather” friend of Pakistan. This regional scenario leaves little maneuvering space for India to deal diplomatically with Pakistan. 
 
With the prospect of Imran Khan government in Pakistan lacking &nbsp;popular legitimacy, &nbsp;it will be depended on support from a coalition partner of Islamic fundamentalist leaning and will be counting on military for its survival. Thus, it cannot, unlike previous Nawaz Sharif government, chart out a clear, effective policy on terrorism. 
 
Rather the chances are more that Pakistan will be further destabilised with increase in terror incidents, which&nbsp;will constraint the government to take a hardline position on Kashmir issue in order to cover its internal domestic failure. 
 
India must deal very cautiously,&nbsp;which demands that while government of India must recognise the electoral outcomes of Pakistan and offer peaceful negotiation or hold talks with upcoming government on various issues, including Kashmir. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

India is now faced with a very unpleasant regional scenario - Imran Khan with a history of hobnobbing with fundamentalist cum terrorist forces on the one hand, and unpredictable Donald trump on the other.

At a time when militancy is rising in Kashmir, the likelihood of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief Imran Khan becoming the Prime Minister has complicated the matter further. The prospect of Imran Khan as the Prime Minister surprises not many as he has emerged as military-backed candidate in Pakistan. With him, the Pakistan army has achieved its four fundamental goals: To convince the world that Pakistan is a democratic country, while ruling the country through the proxy of elected civilian government To finish off the political legacy of Nawaz Sharif To send across the message that supremacy of military establishment is intact as it can decisively shape the outcome of election result To convey a message to India that it’s the Pakistan army that is the real stake holder on the matters related to national security and Kashmir India is now faced with a very unpleasant regional scenario - Imran Khan with a history of hobnobbing with fundamentalist cum terrorist forces in North Western region of Pakistan on the one hand, and unpredictable Donald trump on the other. Under no circumstances Trump can be trusted as a well wisher or an ally of India given the history of his contradictory statements and position on the range of issues. Moreover, China remains an “all weather” friend of Pakistan. This regional scenario leaves little maneuvering space for India to deal diplomatically with Pakistan. With the prospect of Imran Khan government in Pakistan lacking popular legitimacy, it will be depended on support from a coalition partner of Islamic fundamentalist leaning and will be counting on military for its survival. Thus, it cannot, unlike previous Nawaz Sharif government, chart out a clear, effective policy on terrorism. Rather the chances are more that Pakistan will be further destabilised with increase in terror incidents, which will constraint the government to take a hardline position on Kashmir issue in order to cover its internal domestic failure. India must deal very cautiously, which demands that while government of India must recognise the electoral outcomes of Pakistan and offer peaceful negotiation or hold talks with upcoming government on various issues, including Kashmir. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: The uncertain future of India-Pakistan relations

Consideration for others, patience, peace and self love, are the traits that children need to learn to overcome destructive emotions and various challenges life throws at us. And, Delhi government has taken a significant step towards the aim - teaching kids to stay happy, content , confident and grateful.

Delhi government has launched 'Happiness Curriculum' for students of nursery to class 8. About 10 lakh students of government schools in the national capital are covered under the curriculum.&nbsp;

The 45-minute 'Happiness Period' begins with mindfulness session, followed by meditation, value education, storytelling and other activities to help students understand their role and responsibilities in the social system.

The curriculum was prepared with the help of over 40 teachers, educators and volunteers in about six months.

Why should 'Happiness Curriculum' be implemented across the country?

Like all of us, children too find it difficult to overcome negative emotions (anger, hatred, jealousy, frustration), stress and depression. Mental health of students has become a cause of concern for policymakers.

The curriculum introduced by the Delhi government would play an important role in improving physical and mental well being of the children -motivating them to embrace positive behaviour and thinking. This would also help them face emotional setbacks and handle success in more balanced way.&nbsp;

Researchers from Tulane University in the US also say that mindfulness activities improve psychosocial and emotional quality of life scores for students.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
It is indeed a remarkable reform, which focuses on human-centric education. If we teach children the importance of calm and positive attitude, balanced thoughts and gratitude, from the beginning- they would grow up to be more responsible and humble.

According to experts, the curriculum would be a lot more helpful for the unprivileged children as they face additional difficulties and are more vulnerable. Moreover, mindfulness activities and mental exercises could also help in early detection of any kind of mental disorders among students.

According to the data compiled by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), every hour, one student commits suicide. A 2012 Lancet report adds that the world’s highest suicide rates for youth aged 15 to 29.

There is a need to revamp the existing education system. We need a balanced policy that would create responsible, socially conscious and morally sound citizens. Therefore, schools across the country should think about adopting the 'Happiness Curriculum', which is innovative and breaks away from regular teaching practices. It takes happiness factor to schools in a systematic way.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

We need a balanced policy that would create responsible, socially conscious and morally sound citizens.

Consideration for others, patience, peace and self love, are the traits that children need to learn to overcome destructive emotions and various challenges life throws at us. And, Delhi government has taken a significant step towards the aim - teaching kids to stay happy, content , confident and grateful. Delhi government has launched 'Happiness Curriculum' for students of nursery to class 8. About 10 lakh students of government schools in the national capital are covered under the curriculum. The 45-minute 'Happiness Period' begins with mindfulness session, followed by meditation, value education, storytelling and other activities to help students understand their role and responsibilities in the social system. The curriculum was prepared with the help of over 40 teachers, educators and volunteers in about six months. Why should 'Happiness Curriculum' be implemented across the country? Like all of us, children too find it difficult to overcome negative emotions (anger, hatred, jealousy, frustration), stress and depression. Mental health of students has become a cause of concern for policymakers. The curriculum introduced by the Delhi government would play an important role in improving physical and mental well being of the children -motivating them to embrace positive behaviour and thinking. This would also help them face emotional setbacks and handle success in more balanced way. Researchers from Tulane University in the US also say that mindfulness activities improve psychosocial and emotional quality of life scores for students. It is indeed a remarkable reform, which focuses on human-centric education. If we teach children the importance of calm and positive attitude, balanced thoughts and gratitude, from the beginning- they would grow up to be more responsible and humble. According to experts, the curriculum would be a lot more helpful for the unprivileged children as they face additional difficulties and are more vulnerable. Moreover, mindfulness activities and mental exercises could also help in early detection of any kind of mental disorders among students. According to the data compiled by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), every hour, one student commits suicide. A 2012 Lancet report adds that the world’s highest suicide rates for youth aged 15 to 29. There is a need to revamp the existing education system. We need a balanced policy that would create responsible, socially conscious and morally sound citizens. Therefore, schools across the country should think about adopting the 'Happiness Curriculum', which is innovative and breaks away from regular teaching practices. It takes happiness factor to schools in a systematic way. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: From Delhi to every other corner- let's take happiness factor to schools

Union minister Alphons Kannanthanam has come out in support of a 21-year-old Kerala woman, who became a victim of cyberbullying after her video of selling fish after college went viral.

The story of Hanan, a BSc student at a private college in Thodupuzha, selling fish at Thammanam in Ernakulam after her college hours, was carried by leading Malayalam daily 'Mathrubhumi' two days ago.

Her touching story was widely shared on social media by people, including film artists and politicians.

But, a section of people on social media expressed doubts on Hanan's story and termed it as "fake".

The student had to face vicious trolling.

However, Hanan's college principal and neighbours came out in support of her and said the story published in the regional daily was not fake.

Reacting to the news, Kannanthanam yesterday wrote on his Facebook page, Kerala sharks stop attacking #Hanan. I'm ashamed. Here is a girl trying to put together a shattered life. You vultures!.

The tourism minister hailed the woman's attitude to do hard work and move forward in life.

Kannanthanam also referred to the difficulties faced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his teenage and said the latter fought against all odds to become the prime minister.

A teary-eyed Hanan appealed to her critics with folded hands to leave her alone.

''I do not want any help. Kindly leave me alone and allow me to do any kind of menial jobs to earn my daily bread," she said.

Kerala Women's Commission chairperson M C Josephine said she would visit Hanan in Kochi.

Any sort of attack on such a hardworking woman is condemnable, she said.

Hearing Hanan's story, a filmmaker, Arun Gopy, offered her a role in his forthcoming movie starring Malayalam superstar Mohanlal's son Pranav Mohanlal.

The trolls also targeted the filmmaker for such an offer, but Gopy remained firm on the offer.&nbsp

The story of Hanan, a BSc student at a private college in Thodupuzha, selling fish at Thammanam in Ernakulam after her college hours, was carried by leading Malayalam daily 'Mathrubhumi' two days ago.

Union minister Alphons Kannanthanam has come out in support of a 21-year-old Kerala woman, who became a victim of cyberbullying after her video of selling fish after college went viral. The story of Hanan, a BSc student at a private college in Thodupuzha, selling fish at Thammanam in Ernakulam after her college hours, was carried by leading Malayalam daily 'Mathrubhumi' two days ago. Her touching story was widely shared on social media by people, including film artists and politicians. But, a section of people on social media expressed doubts on Hanan's story and termed it as "fake". The student had to face vicious trolling. However, Hanan's college principal and neighbours came out in support of her and said the story published in the regional daily was not fake. Reacting to the news, Kannanthanam yesterday wrote on his Facebook page, Kerala sharks stop attacking #Hanan. I'm ashamed. Here is a girl trying to put together a shattered life. You vultures!. The tourism minister hailed the woman's attitude to do hard work and move forward in life. Kannanthanam also referred to the difficulties faced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his teenage and said the latter fought against all odds to become the prime minister. A teary-eyed Hanan appealed to her critics with folded hands to leave her alone. ''I do not want any help. Kindly leave me alone and allow me to do any kind of menial jobs to earn my daily bread," she said. Kerala Women's Commission chairperson M C Josephine said she would visit Hanan in Kochi. Any sort of attack on such a hardworking woman is condemnable, she said. Hearing Hanan's story, a filmmaker, Arun Gopy, offered her a role in his forthcoming movie starring Malayalam superstar Mohanlal's son Pranav Mohanlal. The trolls also targeted the filmmaker for such an offer, but Gopy remained firm on the offer.

Video of Kerala student selling fish goes viral; Union minister Alphons hits out at trolls

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