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Gitanjali Gems promoter Mehul Choksi, a key accused in the multi-crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam case, today moved a special court here seeking cancellation of a non-bailable warrant (NBW) issued against him.

His lawyer Sanjay Abbot moved the application before special CBI court judge J C Jagdale.

In the application, he claimed that he cannot travel because of his medical condition.

The diamond merchant also claimed he was unable to disclose his current location as he was facing a threat to his life from various persons.

Mehul&nbsp;Choksi said that he never sought to avoid the investigation or the probe agencies and had duly responded to all the communication that he received from the investigating agencies.

He also contended that his case was completely different from that of his relative and billionaire jeweller Nirav Modi.

Choksi said the Enforcement Directorate attached his assets after registering a case based the first Central Bureau of Investigation FIR pertaining Nirav Modi even though he (Choksi) had got nothing to do with it.

After the hearing, the judge directed the CBI to file a reply and posted the matter for hearing on July 11.

The special CBI court, after taking cognisance of the second charge sheet filed in the PNB fraud case, had last month ordered the issuance of the NBW against Mehul Choksi.

The issuance of the alleged fraudulent letters of understanding (LoUs) is said to be the crux of the mega financial fraud.

An LoU is a guarantee which is given by an issuing bank to Indian banks having branches abroad to grant a short-term credit to the applicant.

In case of default, the bank issuing the LoU has to pay the liability to the credit-giving bank along with accruing interest.

Nirav Modi and his uncle Choksi are among the main accused in the fraud case pegged at over&nbsp;Rs.&nbsp;13,400 crore. They have been booked in nearly half-a-dozen cases related to the bank fraud.

Mehul Choksi and Nirav Modi are said to have left the country before criminal cases were lodged against them in February.&nbsp;

In the application, he claimed that he cannot travel because of his medical condition

Gitanjali Gems promoter Mehul Choksi, a key accused in the multi-crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam case, today moved a special court here seeking cancellation of a non-bailable warrant (NBW) issued against him. His lawyer Sanjay Abbot moved the application before special CBI court judge J C Jagdale. In the application, he claimed that he cannot travel because of his medical condition. The diamond merchant also claimed he was unable to disclose his current location as he was facing a threat to his life from various persons. Mehul Choksi said that he never sought to avoid the investigation or the probe agencies and had duly responded to all the communication that he received from the investigating agencies. He also contended that his case was completely different from that of his relative and billionaire jeweller Nirav Modi. Choksi said the Enforcement Directorate attached his assets after registering a case based the first Central Bureau of Investigation FIR pertaining Nirav Modi even though he (Choksi) had got nothing to do with it. After the hearing, the judge directed the CBI to file a reply and posted the matter for hearing on July 11. The special CBI court, after taking cognisance of the second charge sheet filed in the PNB fraud case, had last month ordered the issuance of the NBW against Mehul Choksi. The issuance of the alleged fraudulent letters of understanding (LoUs) is said to be the crux of the mega financial fraud. An LoU is a guarantee which is given by an issuing bank to Indian banks having branches abroad to grant a short-term credit to the applicant. In case of default, the bank issuing the LoU has to pay the liability to the credit-giving bank along with accruing interest. Nirav Modi and his uncle Choksi are among the main accused in the fraud case pegged at over Rs. 13,400 crore. They have been booked in nearly half-a-dozen cases related to the bank fraud. Mehul Choksi and Nirav Modi are said to have left the country before criminal cases were lodged against them in February.

Mehul Choksi moves court seeking cancellation of non-bailable warrant

News of Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedi's secret gurudwara wedding in May had taken everyone by surprise. Not just the news of their wedding but also the fact that they were in a relationship was not known to too many people.&nbsp; 
 
Dhupia who recently appeared on a chat show revealed that the two never officially dated and that their romance was a bit 'old school'.&nbsp; 
 
Talking about how it all started with Angad, Neha reminisced: "Angad proposed to me in the nicest way possible wherein he went straight to my parents and then my mom called me saying that he is the nicest guy for you. But back then, I thought it wasn`t the right time and said no to his proposal." 
 
"He never wanted to date me as he was very certain that I will either be his friend or his wife. Ever since we have known each other, we were good friends and nothing more than that.&nbsp;

"But on May 3rd this year, he asked me to come with him to Delhi. He dropped a hint that we need to settle down and proposed marriage in front of my parents which came as a surprise to both my parents and me," she added. 
 
Neha is naturally quite smitten by Angad's style of romance.&nbsp; 
 
When she was asked if there's any habbit of Angad's that annoys her, Neha said, "He never completes a fight. Like every couple, we have our fair share of fights, but the point of the fight is to find a solution or at least finish it. But Angad just walks out of the house and goes on a drive while I`m still at home wanting to finish the fight." 
 
The couple, who had a Gurudwara wedding in Delhi and soon left for America on a work trip has not hosted a reception so far. They have hosted a small house-party which had the couple's friends in attendance.&nbsp;

Dhupia who recently appeared on a chat show revealed that the two never officially dated and that their romance was a bit 'old school'.

News of Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedi's secret gurudwara wedding in May had taken everyone by surprise. Not just the news of their wedding but also the fact that they were in a relationship was not known to too many people. Dhupia who recently appeared on a chat show revealed that the two never officially dated and that their romance was a bit 'old school'. Talking about how it all started with Angad, Neha reminisced: "Angad proposed to me in the nicest way possible wherein he went straight to my parents and then my mom called me saying that he is the nicest guy for you. But back then, I thought it wasn`t the right time and said no to his proposal." "He never wanted to date me as he was very certain that I will either be his friend or his wife. Ever since we have known each other, we were good friends and nothing more than that. "But on May 3rd this year, he asked me to come with him to Delhi. He dropped a hint that we need to settle down and proposed marriage in front of my parents which came as a surprise to both my parents and me," she added. Neha is naturally quite smitten by Angad's style of romance. When she was asked if there's any habbit of Angad's that annoys her, Neha said, "He never completes a fight. Like every couple, we have our fair share of fights, but the point of the fight is to find a solution or at least finish it. But Angad just walks out of the house and goes on a drive while I`m still at home wanting to finish the fight." The couple, who had a Gurudwara wedding in Delhi and soon left for America on a work trip has not hosted a reception so far. They have hosted a small house-party which had the couple's friends in attendance.

Angad never wanted to date me, we were just good friends: Neha Dhupia

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/we-will-be-requesting-india-china-to-bring-iran-oil-imports-to-zero-without-question-us-147312">We will be requesting India, China to bring Iran oil imports to 'zero', without question: US</a>

The Trump administration has told countries to stop oil imports from Iran from November while offering no exceptions, the order stands for India and China who have been asked to cut their oil import to "zero".

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/pence-warns-central-americans-to-immigrate-legally-or-not-at-all-147304">Pence warns Central Americans to immigrate legally or not at all</a>

US Vice President Mike Pence said during the first stop of a Latin American tour on Tuesday that if Central Americans thinking of immigrating to the United States "can't come legally, don't come at all."

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/myanmar-military-leaders-guilty-of-crimes-against-humanity-amnesty-147316">Myanmar military leaders guilty of 'crimes against humanity': Amnesty</a>

Myanmar's military chief and other top brass have been accused by Amnesty International of crimes against humanity for overseeing a "systematic" attack against Rohingya Muslims, according to a report by the rights group Wednesday calling for prosecution at the International Criminal Court.

<a href="http://wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2018-argentina-beat-nigeria-to-cruise-to-knockout-stages-147302">FIFA World Cup 2018: Argentina beat Nigeria to cruise to knockout stages</a>

A late goal by Marcos Rojo gave Argentina a dramatic 2-1 victory over Nigeria in Group D on Tuesday and sent the twice champions through to the knockout stages of the World Cup.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-salman-khans-race-3-becomes-the-lowest-rated-hindi-film-on-imdb-147311">Salman Khan's 'Race 3' becomes the lowest rated Hindi film on IMDB</a>

Salman Khan's latest film 'Race 3' may be shattering box office records with its impressive earnings but the film has been rated very poorly on movie website IMDB.

We will be requesting India, China to bring Iran oil imports to 'zero', without question: US The Trump administration has told countries to stop oil imports from Iran from November while offering no exceptions, the order stands for India and China who have been asked to cut their oil import to "zero". Pence warns Central Americans to immigrate legally or not at all US Vice President Mike Pence said during the first stop of a Latin American tour on Tuesday that if Central Americans thinking of immigrating to the United States "can't come legally, don't come at all." Myanmar military leaders guilty of 'crimes against humanity': Amnesty Myanmar's military chief and other top brass have been accused by Amnesty International of crimes against humanity for overseeing a "systematic" attack against Rohingya Muslims, according to a report by the rights group Wednesday calling for prosecution at the International Criminal Court. FIFA World Cup 2018: Argentina beat Nigeria to cruise to knockout stages A late goal by Marcos Rojo gave Argentina a dramatic 2-1 victory over Nigeria in Group D on Tuesday and sent the twice champions through to the knockout stages of the World Cup. Salman Khan's 'Race 3' becomes the lowest rated Hindi film on IMDB Salman Khan's latest film 'Race 3' may be shattering box office records with its impressive earnings but the film has been rated very poorly on movie website IMDB.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Army chief General&nbspBipin Rawat&nbspon Wednesday stressed on exploiting cyber space for advantage of defence forces, saying the "tech-savvy" terrorists operating from across the borders are using it for their benefit and if the armed forces don't stay ahead of them, they may never be able overcome terrorism. 
 
Addressing a conference on cyber security here, the Army Chief said the cyber space is important not only in conventional warfare, but is equally relevant in the sub-conventional warfare or proxy war. 
 
"We must also develop niche capabilities to disable the adversaries' system. Today, the terrorists operating against us from across the borders are very tech-savvy. They are exploiting cyber space for their advantage. If we don't stay ahead of them, we will never be able to get over the phenomena of terrorism," Rawat said. 
 
He also noted that China is ramping up its capabilities in the cyber warfare. 
 
Addressing the conference, Lt Gen&nbspSatish Dua, who is the Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee (CISC), said there was a need to tweak the defence strategy and factor in cyber threat. 
 
"Radicalisation is the most potent by-product of cyber warfare. Terrorist organisations have moved their propaganda online," Dua said.&nbsp

Meanwhile,&nbsp<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/un-report-on-jk-is-fallacious-tendentious-and-motivated-india-144344">Rawat called</a>&nbspthe latest report of the UN on Kashmir as "motivated" and "biased".

Last week the&nbsp<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/allowing-un-report-on-kashmir-was-failure-of-govts-foreign-policy-congress-146581">UN had released the first-ever&nbsp</a>report on alleged human rights violation in Kashmir and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and demanded an international probe into it. India had called the report &nbsp“fallacious and motivated”.

Addressing a conference on cyber security here, the Army Chief said the cyber space is important not only in conventional warfare, but is equally relevant in the sub-conventional warfare or proxy war

Army chief General&nbspBipin Rawat&nbspon Wednesday stressed on exploiting cyber space for advantage of defence forces, saying the "tech-savvy" terrorists operating from across the borders are using it for their benefit and if the armed forces don't stay ahead of them, they may never be able overcome terrorism. Addressing a conference on cyber security here, the Army Chief said the cyber space is important not only in conventional warfare, but is equally relevant in the sub-conventional warfare or proxy war. "We must also develop niche capabilities to disable the adversaries' system. Today, the terrorists operating against us from across the borders are very tech-savvy. They are exploiting cyber space for their advantage. If we don't stay ahead of them, we will never be able to get over the phenomena of terrorism," Rawat said. He also noted that China is ramping up its capabilities in the cyber warfare. Addressing the conference, Lt Gen&nbspSatish Dua, who is the Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee (CISC), said there was a need to tweak the defence strategy and factor in cyber threat. "Radicalisation is the most potent by-product of cyber warfare. Terrorist organisations have moved their propaganda online," Dua said. Meanwhile, Rawat called&nbspthe latest report of the UN on Kashmir as "motivated" and "biased". Last week the UN had released the first-ever report on alleged human rights violation in Kashmir and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and demanded an international probe into it. India had called the report “fallacious and motivated”.

Tech-savvy terrorists exploiting cyber space for their advantage: Army Chief Bipin Rawat

India and Japan have begun technical discussions for research collaboration for unmanned ground vehicle, Japanese envoy Kenji Hiramatsu said on Tuesday, noting that Tokyo's readiness to provide New Delhi with US-2 amphibian aircraft reflects the high degree of trust between the two nations.

Noting that the defence ties between the two countries are on an upswing, Kenji said more progress is expected in other fields including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counter terrorism. In this context, he said the first-ever bilateral exercise between the Japanese Ground Self Defence Force and Indian Army is also on the cards.

This month, the navies of the two countries participated in Malabar 2018, a trilateral exercise involving the US.

"As for the area of equipment and technology, we have started technical discussions for future research collaboration in the area of unmanned ground vehicle and robotics.

"Also, our readiness to provide our state-of-the-art US-2 amphibian aircraft has been appreciated by the GoI (Government of India) as symbolising the high degree of trust between the two countries," the envoy said.

He was speaking at a reception on the occasion of 68th Japan Self Defense Forces Day held at the embassy in New Delhi.

India intends to procure amphibian aircraft US-2 for its navy for better search and rescue (SAR) missions and surveillance purpose.

Alluding to the growing Chinese assertiveness in the region without naming any country, the envoy said the security environment surrounding Asia has transformed in the recent years and is continuing to evolve.

In response to these changes, Japan undertook major reviews in its security policy including the development of its security legislation three years ago, he said.

"Our new security policy is a testament to the resolve of Japan to take further responsibility in ensuring global peace and stability. Here I want to make clear that our path of a peace-loving nation as stipulated in the Constitution remains unchanged,"&nbsphe said.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe paid a visit to India last year during which, Kenji said, the two countries agreed to further explore the potential for a deeper bilateral cooperation and synergy on regional and global issues.

There have been several high-level visits from Japan this year. In March, Admiral Kawano visited India in January for the first time as the Chief of Joint Staff of Japan.

This month, the two sides had wide-ranging strategic discussions on regional and global issues and various areas of defence cooperation through the Defence Policy Dialogue and the "2 plus 2 vice-ministerial Dialogue", held here last week.

Noting that the defence ties between the two countries are on an upswing, Kenji said more progress is expected in other fields including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counter terrorism. In this context, Japanese envoy Kenji Hiramatsu said the first-ever bilateral exercise between the Japanese Ground Self Defence Force and Indian Army is also on the cards

India and Japan have begun technical discussions for research collaboration for unmanned ground vehicle, Japanese envoy Kenji Hiramatsu said on Tuesday, noting that Tokyo's readiness to provide New Delhi with US-2 amphibian aircraft reflects the high degree of trust between the two nations. Noting that the defence ties between the two countries are on an upswing, Kenji said more progress is expected in other fields including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counter terrorism. In this context, he said the first-ever bilateral exercise between the Japanese Ground Self Defence Force and Indian Army is also on the cards. This month, the navies of the two countries participated in Malabar 2018, a trilateral exercise involving the US. "As for the area of equipment and technology, we have started technical discussions for future research collaboration in the area of unmanned ground vehicle and robotics. "Also, our readiness to provide our state-of-the-art US-2 amphibian aircraft has been appreciated by the GoI (Government of India) as symbolising the high degree of trust between the two countries," the envoy said. He was speaking at a reception on the occasion of 68th Japan Self Defense Forces Day held at the embassy in New Delhi. India intends to procure amphibian aircraft US-2 for its navy for better search and rescue (SAR) missions and surveillance purpose. Alluding to the growing Chinese assertiveness in the region without naming any country, the envoy said the security environment surrounding Asia has transformed in the recent years and is continuing to evolve. In response to these changes, Japan undertook major reviews in its security policy including the development of its security legislation three years ago, he said. "Our new security policy is a testament to the resolve of Japan to take further responsibility in ensuring global peace and stability. Here I want to make clear that our path of a peace-loving nation as stipulated in the Constitution remains unchanged,"&nbsphe said. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe paid a visit to India last year during which, Kenji said, the two countries agreed to further explore the potential for a deeper bilateral cooperation and synergy on regional and global issues. There have been several high-level visits from Japan this year. In March, Admiral Kawano visited India in January for the first time as the Chief of Joint Staff of Japan. This month, the two sides had wide-ranging strategic discussions on regional and global issues and various areas of defence cooperation through the Defence Policy Dialogue and the "2 plus 2 vice-ministerial Dialogue", held here last week.

Have begun discussions with India on unmanned ground vehicle: Japanese Envoy

Family members of a woman, who underwent a heart surgery at the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/baby-wrongly-declared-dead-by-max-hospital-passes-away-26023">Max hospital </a>in Gurgaon, alleged that she died on Tuesday due to negligence of the hospital administration.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/man-dies-at-max-hospital-family-alleges-negligence-27879">Man dies at Max Hospital, family alleges negligence</a>

They claimed that the hospital administration let doctors, nurses, other staff and patients' kin to enter the intensive care unit (ICU) wearing shoes that led to spreading of infection and eventually the woman's death.&nbsp;

However, the hospital administration claimed that the woman remained critical after the surgery, she was on ventilator support and dialysis intermittently.

Neelam Verma was admitted to the Max hospital in Sushant Lok on June 5 and a heart surgery was conducted on her on June 9.&nbsp;

Her relative Pintu Verma claimed that she was reacting till the intervening night of Monday and Tuesday after being shifted from the operation theatre to the ICU.

"We had met Neelam after her heart surgery. She was responding well. The doctors suggested us to go home as the medical staff will take care of the patient. At 1.20 am, we received a phone call about her death," he said.

He alleged that the hospital administration allowed doctors, nurses, other staff and even outsiders to enter the ICU wearing shoes.

"We had objected to this but the hospital, despite knowing that such a practice could spread infection in the ICU, gave an excuse and said people entering ICU wearing shoes was a regular practice," the relative alleged.

The Doctors had initially said the treatment would cost around Rs 4 lakh. The hospital has charged Rs 16 lakh after the surgery, he said.

"We have lodged a complaint with the sector 29 police station for Neelam's death due to medical negligence and also filed complaint with the Gurgaon civil surgeon," he said.

When contacted, the hospital administration said the patient had a rheumatic heart disease with severe mitral valve issues.&nbsp;

Despite all possible care and efforts, she succumbed to a multiple organ failure on June 26.&nbsp;

"The patient had previously undergone an open heart surgery at a reputed government hospital in 1996. She had come with a condition of severe breathlessness on June 5. Investigations revealed that she also had a chronic liver disease as a consequence of a long-standing condition of heart failure.&nbsp;

"The patient underwent a high risk cardiac surgery on June 9" after multiple tests and detailed counselling on the high risk factors and due consent. The patient remained critical post operatively, on ventilator support and dialysis intermittently. The family was briefed on her criticality on a daily basis," a statement from the hospital said.

It added, "Normal attire is acceptable on visits/rounds. A doctor needs to change into sterile scrubs, wear masks, caps and gloves only when a bed-side procedure has to be carried out".

The family claimed that the hospital administration let doctors, nurses, other staff and patients' kin to enter the intensive care unit (ICU) wearing shoes that led to spreading of infection and eventually the woman's death

Family members of a woman, who underwent a heart surgery at the Max hospital in Gurgaon, alleged that she died on Tuesday due to negligence of the hospital administration. Also read: Man dies at Max Hospital, family alleges negligence They claimed that the hospital administration let doctors, nurses, other staff and patients' kin to enter the intensive care unit (ICU) wearing shoes that led to spreading of infection and eventually the woman's death. However, the hospital administration claimed that the woman remained critical after the surgery, she was on ventilator support and dialysis intermittently. Neelam Verma was admitted to the Max hospital in Sushant Lok on June 5 and a heart surgery was conducted on her on June 9. Her relative Pintu Verma claimed that she was reacting till the intervening night of Monday and Tuesday after being shifted from the operation theatre to the ICU. "We had met Neelam after her heart surgery. She was responding well. The doctors suggested us to go home as the medical staff will take care of the patient. At 1.20 am, we received a phone call about her death," he said. He alleged that the hospital administration allowed doctors, nurses, other staff and even outsiders to enter the ICU wearing shoes. "We had objected to this but the hospital, despite knowing that such a practice could spread infection in the ICU, gave an excuse and said people entering ICU wearing shoes was a regular practice," the relative alleged. The Doctors had initially said the treatment would cost around Rs 4 lakh. The hospital has charged Rs 16 lakh after the surgery, he said. "We have lodged a complaint with the sector 29 police station for Neelam's death due to medical negligence and also filed complaint with the Gurgaon civil surgeon," he said. When contacted, the hospital administration said the patient had a rheumatic heart disease with severe mitral valve issues. Despite all possible care and efforts, she succumbed to a multiple organ failure on June 26. "The patient had previously undergone an open heart surgery at a reputed government hospital in 1996. She had come with a condition of severe breathlessness on June 5. Investigations revealed that she also had a chronic liver disease as a consequence of a long-standing condition of heart failure. "The patient underwent a high risk cardiac surgery on June 9" after multiple tests and detailed counselling on the high risk factors and due consent. The patient remained critical post operatively, on ventilator support and dialysis intermittently. The family was briefed on her criticality on a daily basis," a statement from the hospital said. It added, "Normal attire is acceptable on visits/rounds. A doctor needs to change into sterile scrubs, wear masks, caps and gloves only when a bed-side procedure has to be carried out".

Family alleges woman died in Gurgaon's Max hospital due to negligence

This segment of WION brings to you latest updates. 'Need to address cyber threats' says Indian Army Chief. He also said that cyber warfare as important as conventional warfare.

WION Dispatch: 'Need to address cyber threats' says Indian Army Chief

This is a segment of WION which talks about Reuters report on most unsafe nations for women. India 'most dangerous' in terms of sexual violence on the Reuters list. Indian government has trashed the survey on women. Watch this video for more information.

Indian government trashes Thomson Reuters survey on women

Ranbir Kapoor has had his share of "coming of age" stories and is now looking forward to 'Shamshera', which the actor believes, is quite a departure for him as an actor.&nbsp; 
 
Directed by Karan Malhotra, the action-drama is produced by Yash Raj Films and also features Sanjay Dutt as an antagonist.&nbsp; 
 
In this film, Ranbir will be seen in a role of a dacoit. 
 
"'Shamshera' is not a story of a 'daaku', but a film based in the 1800s, it is about a dacoit tribe who are fighting for their right and independence from the British. There was a great story of heroism, a story rooted in our country which actually happened back then," Ranbir told PTI. 
 
"It is a departure from the kind of films I have done, it is not the coming-of-age lover boy roles which I have done often. 'Shamshera' is in the aspirational space, the space of true, badass commercial cinema." 
 
A 45-second teaser was released by YRF last month, where Ranbir was seen on a battlefield holding an axe and arrows and a Hindi caption that read 'Karam se dacait, dharam se azaad'. 
 
'Shamshera' is set to go on the floors by the end of this year and shooting will wrap by mid 2019.&nbsp; 
 
The film will have an element of romance as well because Hindi movies are incomplete with a love story, says the actor.&nbsp; 
 
"A true blue Hindi film has everything- comedy, action, romance drama. And all these films I am doing are all in that direction, we are trying to have all these factors in it." 
 
While the 35-year-old actor has 'Sanju' releasing this Friday, Ranbir has interesting slate of films lined up. Apart from 'Shamshera', the actor has Ayan Mukerji's 'Brahmastra' and 'Pyaar Ka Punchnama' fame director Luv Ranujan's untitled next with Ajay Devgn.

"Luv Ranjan's film will happen after I finish 'Brahmastra' and 'Shamshera'. It is a dramatic love story. So I am really looking forward to that. It is something which Luv hasn't done before, something which even Ajay sir and I haven't done before." 
 
In all his upcoming films, Ranbir will be working with big stars - Dutt in 'Shamshera', Devgn in Luv's next and megastar Amitabh Bachchan in 'Brahmastra'. 
 
The 'Tamasha' star says working with them gives him a career high.&nbsp; 
 
"These are the actors who I admire, who I was inspired when I was an aspiring actor and now to share screen space with them and find acceptance... Amit ji gives so much of love and respect as an actor, it is amazing. It is something I aspire to be. 
 
"Amit ji has been working for 49 years, he is probably the biggest superstar ever born in the world. But till today, the humility, hardwork, passion he shows, it is quite amazing and inspiring for me as a young actor."&nbsp; 
Ranbir says, 'Brahmastra', which he is currently shooting with Alia Bhatt, is written in a trilogy format.&nbsp; 
 
"Ayaan has spent six years of his life working really hard to make an original story, born in our country, to come alive in that form. It is not a superhero film as people say. 
 
"It is a romantic-fairytale in a supernatural format. We hope the first film does well, it will give us the opportunity to make part two and three."&nbsp;

The actor who is gearing up for the release of 'Sanju' will start shooting for 'Shamshera' soon.

Ranbir Kapoor has had his share of "coming of age" stories and is now looking forward to 'Shamshera', which the actor believes, is quite a departure for him as an actor. Directed by Karan Malhotra, the action-drama is produced by Yash Raj Films and also features Sanjay Dutt as an antagonist. In this film, Ranbir will be seen in a role of a dacoit. "'Shamshera' is not a story of a 'daaku', but a film based in the 1800s, it is about a dacoit tribe who are fighting for their right and independence from the British. There was a great story of heroism, a story rooted in our country which actually happened back then," Ranbir told PTI. "It is a departure from the kind of films I have done, it is not the coming-of-age lover boy roles which I have done often. 'Shamshera' is in the aspirational space, the space of true, badass commercial cinema." A 45-second teaser was released by YRF last month, where Ranbir was seen on a battlefield holding an axe and arrows and a Hindi caption that read 'Karam se dacait, dharam se azaad'. 'Shamshera' is set to go on the floors by the end of this year and shooting will wrap by mid 2019. The film will have an element of romance as well because Hindi movies are incomplete with a love story, says the actor. "A true blue Hindi film has everything- comedy, action, romance drama. And all these films I am doing are all in that direction, we are trying to have all these factors in it." While the 35-year-old actor has 'Sanju' releasing this Friday, Ranbir has interesting slate of films lined up. Apart from 'Shamshera', the actor has Ayan Mukerji's 'Brahmastra' and 'Pyaar Ka Punchnama' fame director Luv Ranujan's untitled next with Ajay Devgn. "Luv Ranjan's film will happen after I finish 'Brahmastra' and 'Shamshera'. It is a dramatic love story. So I am really looking forward to that. It is something which Luv hasn't done before, something which even Ajay sir and I haven't done before." In all his upcoming films, Ranbir will be working with big stars - Dutt in 'Shamshera', Devgn in Luv's next and megastar Amitabh Bachchan in 'Brahmastra'. The 'Tamasha' star says working with them gives him a career high. "These are the actors who I admire, who I was inspired when I was an aspiring actor and now to share screen space with them and find acceptance... Amit ji gives so much of love and respect as an actor, it is amazing. It is something I aspire to be. "Amit ji has been working for 49 years, he is probably the biggest superstar ever born in the world. But till today, the humility, hardwork, passion he shows, it is quite amazing and inspiring for me as a young actor." Ranbir says, 'Brahmastra', which he is currently shooting with Alia Bhatt, is written in a trilogy format. "Ayaan has spent six years of his life working really hard to make an original story, born in our country, to come alive in that form. It is not a superhero film as people say. "It is a romantic-fairytale in a supernatural format. We hope the first film does well, it will give us the opportunity to make part two and three."

Ranbir Kapoor: 'Shamshera' departure from the films I've done so far

Fugitive liquor baron Vijay Mallya today said he has become the "Poster Boy" of bank default and a lightning rod of public anger, and there's nothing he could do "if politically motivated extraneous factors interfere" with his efforts to settle the dues.

Speaking after "two years of silence" over the controversy surrounding him in the over Rs 9,000-crore Kingfisher Airlines loan default case, Mallya denied that he was a wilful defaulter.

Tired of "relentless pursuit" of him by "the government and its criminal agencies", Mallya said he had even written letters to both the Prime Minister and the Finance Minister on April 15, 2016 to explain his side of the story.

"No response was received from either of them," he said in a statement issued, seeking to state 'factual position' in response to the controversy surrounding him.

Mallya, who also made public the letters he had written to the PM and the Finance Minister, said he has been accused by politicians and the media alike of having stolen and run away with Rs 9,000 crore that was loaned to Kingfisher Airlines (KFA).

"Some of the lending banks have also labelled me a wilful defaulter," he added.

He claimed that he made two settlement offers to the banks when proceedings were filed by them in the Supreme Court on March 29, 2016 and April 6, 2016 but both the offers were rejected by the banks.

"I respectfully submit that my conduct does not amount to 'wilful default'," Mallya said.

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After two years of silence, I have decided to issue a comprehensive press statement ... 1/5 <a href="https://t.co/klbeh4rF8G">pic.twitter.com/klbeh4rF8G</a>
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheVijayMallya/status/1011535998948380672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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I respectfully say that I have made and continue to make every effort, in good faith to settle with the Public Sector Banks. If Politically motivated extraneous factors interfere, there is nothing that I can do : Dr Vijay Mallya in his statement
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1011548677167550465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Currently, undergoing an extradition trial in a UK court over fraud and money laundering charges by Indian authorities, the liquor baron said the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) have filed charge sheets against him "with various untenable and blatantly false allegations acting at the behest of the government and lending banks".

"The ED have also attached assets belonging to me, my group companies and companies owned and/or controlled by my family under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) currently valued at approximately Rs 13,900 crore," he added.

Citing reports of ED objecting to public sector banks' claim to the proceeds arising from the sale of his assets, Mallya said, "...This is a clear example of politically motivated abuse of power with no legal basis whatsoever and behoves the fundamental question of whether the government wants me to repay the public sector banks or not".

Lamenting that all his "efforts are either ignored or misunderstood", he said,"I am tired of this relentless pursuit of me by the government and its criminal agencies".

Insisting that he had made and "continue to make every effort, in good faith to settle with the public sector banks," Mallya said, "If politically motivated extraneous factors interfere, there is nothing that I can do".

In summary, Mallya, who fled to the UK in March 2016, added,"I have become the 'Poster Boy' of Bank default and a lightning rod of public anger".&nbsp;

<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/S-QsAYVDdM0" width="560"></iframe>

&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Mallya, breaking a two-year-long silence, said he had also written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley explaining his side of the story but that he had got no reply

Fugitive liquor baron Vijay Mallya today said he has become the "Poster Boy" of bank default and a lightning rod of public anger, and there's nothing he could do "if politically motivated extraneous factors interfere" with his efforts to settle the dues. Speaking after "two years of silence" over the controversy surrounding him in the over Rs 9,000-crore Kingfisher Airlines loan default case, Mallya denied that he was a wilful defaulter. Tired of "relentless pursuit" of him by "the government and its criminal agencies", Mallya said he had even written letters to both the Prime Minister and the Finance Minister on April 15, 2016 to explain his side of the story. "No response was received from either of them," he said in a statement issued, seeking to state 'factual position' in response to the controversy surrounding him. Mallya, who also made public the letters he had written to the PM and the Finance Minister, said he has been accused by politicians and the media alike of having stolen and run away with Rs 9,000 crore that was loaned to Kingfisher Airlines (KFA). "Some of the lending banks have also labelled me a wilful defaulter," he added. He claimed that he made two settlement offers to the banks when proceedings were filed by them in the Supreme Court on March 29, 2016 and April 6, 2016 but both the offers were rejected by the banks. "I respectfully submit that my conduct does not amount to 'wilful default'," Mallya said. After two years of silence, I have decided to issue a comprehensive press statement ... 1/5 pic.twitter.com/klbeh4rF8G — Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) June 26, 2018 × I respectfully say that I have made and continue to make every effort, in good faith to settle with the Public Sector Banks. If Politically motivated extraneous factors interfere, there is nothing that I can do : Dr Vijay Mallya in his statement — ANI (@ANI) June 26, 2018 × Currently, undergoing an extradition trial in a UK court over fraud and money laundering charges by Indian authorities, the liquor baron said the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) have filed charge sheets against him "with various untenable and blatantly false allegations acting at the behest of the government and lending banks". "The ED have also attached assets belonging to me, my group companies and companies owned and/or controlled by my family under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) currently valued at approximately Rs 13,900 crore," he added. Citing reports of ED objecting to public sector banks' claim to the proceeds arising from the sale of his assets, Mallya said, "...This is a clear example of politically motivated abuse of power with no legal basis whatsoever and behoves the fundamental question of whether the government wants me to repay the public sector banks or not". Lamenting that all his "efforts are either ignored or misunderstood", he said,"I am tired of this relentless pursuit of me by the government and its criminal agencies". Insisting that he had made and "continue to make every effort, in good faith to settle with the public sector banks," Mallya said, "If politically motivated extraneous factors interfere, there is nothing that I can do". In summary, Mallya, who fled to the UK in March 2016, added,"I have become the 'Poster Boy' of Bank default and a lightning rod of public anger". (With inputs from PTI)

Tried to settle with banks but offers were rejected: Vijay Mallya

Around 100 passengers held up the Mumbai-Katra Swaraj Superfast Express at the Ambala Cantt railway station for nearly an hour as they were angry over unclean coaches and dirty toilets in the train.

Most of the protesting passengers were travelling in AC coaches. They forced the train to halt at the platform for one hour, according to officials.

Someone pulled the emergency chain of the train when it began leaving the station. The passengers then gathered at the platform and raised slogans against Railway authorities and threatened they would not allow the train to move till the coaches were cleaned. They claimed the toilets of some compartments were dirty and not working properly, while some of coaches had not been cleaned properly. Passengers alleged they had complained to the ticket checker who did not help.&nbsp

Station Director B S Gill and railway police rushed to the spot and tried to persuade the irate passengers who remained steadfast on their demand. The officials then summoned a sanitation department team and all coaches, including toilets, were cleaned properly. Some of the passengers told reporters they would bring the matter to the notice of the Railway Minister. O

Over a week ago, Congress' Amritsar MP G S Aujla had claimed that he had to pull the emergency chain of a train to get tanks filled after passengers complained they were unable to use toilets due to lack of water.

Aujla, along with some senior Railways officials, had conducted a surprise inspection of a number of trains, including the Shatabdi Express, at the railway station at Amritsar, Punjab. He had claimed he had to pull the emergency chain of the Tata Muri Express to get its water tanks filled.&nbsp

The passengers then gathered at the platform and raised slogans against Railway authorities and threatened they would not allow the train to move till the coaches were cleaned

Around 100 passengers held up the Mumbai-Katra Swaraj Superfast Express at the Ambala Cantt railway station for nearly an hour as they were angry over unclean coaches and dirty toilets in the train. Most of the protesting passengers were travelling in AC coaches. They forced the train to halt at the platform for one hour, according to officials. Someone pulled the emergency chain of the train when it began leaving the station. The passengers then gathered at the platform and raised slogans against Railway authorities and threatened they would not allow the train to move till the coaches were cleaned. They claimed the toilets of some compartments were dirty and not working properly, while some of coaches had not been cleaned properly. Passengers alleged they had complained to the ticket checker who did not help. Station Director B S Gill and railway police rushed to the spot and tried to persuade the irate passengers who remained steadfast on their demand. The officials then summoned a sanitation department team and all coaches, including toilets, were cleaned properly. Some of the passengers told reporters they would bring the matter to the notice of the Railway Minister. O Over a week ago, Congress' Amritsar MP G S Aujla had claimed that he had to pull the emergency chain of a train to get tanks filled after passengers complained they were unable to use toilets due to lack of water. Aujla, along with some senior Railways officials, had conducted a surprise inspection of a number of trains, including the Shatabdi Express, at the railway station at Amritsar, Punjab. He had claimed he had to pull the emergency chain of the Tata Muri Express to get its water tanks filled.

Haryana: Angry passengers hold up train; get toilets, coaches cleaned

A lot of hue and cry has been made over a Thomson-Reuters survey which deems India the most unsafe for women in the world. This has led to a host of reactions including those from BJP leaders and supporters who ‘rejected the survey’.

Breaking News: Indian government reacts on Reuters poll

This is a segment of WION which talks about Reuters survey. Indian government to strongly react to Reuters survey on most unsafe nations for women. Watch this video for more information.

Indian government to strongly react to Reuters survey on most unsafe nations for women

This is a segment of WION which talks about a flawed analysis. Respondents asked to name 5 worst nations for women. Watch this video for more information.

A flawed analysis: Respondents asked to name 5 worst nations for women

This is a segment of WION which talks about Thomson Reuters survey. How credible is the survey of Thomson Reuters on most unsafe nations for women? Watch this video for more information.

How credible is the survey of Thomson Reuters on most unsafe nations for women?

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/major-handa-exchanged-over-3000-calls-with-army-officers-wife--147051">Army Major, who is accused of killing a fellow officer's wife</a>, will be taken to Meerut to ascertain the places he had visited after the incident, police said on Tuesday.

The sharp-edged weapon with which 35-year-old Shailza Dwivedi, wife of another Army Major, was killed is yet to be recovered, they added.

Police will be taking the arrested accused,<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-murdering-shailja-major-handa-told-his-wife-a-dog-had-come-under-his-car-147068"> Major Nikhil Handa</a>, to Meerut to recreate the sequence of events and to ascertain where he could have thrown the knife he used to slit the woman's throat.

The accused was taken to some places in southwest Delhi on Tuesday to identify the places where he could have thrown the knife, police said.

Police also spoke to the family members of the accused whether they had any inkling of his plan to kill the woman.

The 40-year-old accused was arrested from Uttar Pradesh's Meerut on Sunday for killing the woman. Police had said that he was "obsessed" with her.

The woman's body was found with her throat slit near the Brar Square in the Delhi Cantonment area on Saturday.

Initially, the police was informed that a woman had died in an accident. Later, when they inspected the body, it was found that her throat was slit.

The accused had allegedly run his car over her face and the body in order to make the incident appear as an accident.

Earlier, the woman was dropped at the Army Base Hospital in her husband's official vehicle by a driver on Saturday.

Later, when the driver came back to pick her up, he could not find her and learnt that she did not attend her scheduled physiotherapy session.&nbsp

The 40-year-old accused was arrested from Uttar Pradesh's Meerut on Sunday for killing the woman. Police had said that he was 'obsessed' with her

The Army Major, who is accused of killing a fellow officer's wife, will be taken to Meerut to ascertain the places he had visited after the incident, police said on Tuesday. The sharp-edged weapon with which 35-year-old Shailza Dwivedi, wife of another Army Major, was killed is yet to be recovered, they added. Police will be taking the arrested accused, Major Nikhil Handa, to Meerut to recreate the sequence of events and to ascertain where he could have thrown the knife he used to slit the woman's throat. The accused was taken to some places in southwest Delhi on Tuesday to identify the places where he could have thrown the knife, police said. Police also spoke to the family members of the accused whether they had any inkling of his plan to kill the woman. The 40-year-old accused was arrested from Uttar Pradesh's Meerut on Sunday for killing the woman. Police had said that he was "obsessed" with her. The woman's body was found with her throat slit near the Brar Square in the Delhi Cantonment area on Saturday. Initially, the police was informed that a woman had died in an accident. Later, when they inspected the body, it was found that her throat was slit. The accused had allegedly run his car over her face and the body in order to make the incident appear as an accident. Earlier, the woman was dropped at the Army Base Hospital in her husband's official vehicle by a driver on Saturday. Later, when the driver came back to pick her up, he could not find her and learnt that she did not attend her scheduled physiotherapy session.

Army Major Handa to be taken to Meerut as part of probe

This is a segment of WION which talks about report by United Nations. Sweden tops the list released by United Nations on violence against women. Watch this video for more information.

Sweden tops the list released by United Nations on violence against women

This is a segment of WION which talks about Reuters report on most unsafe nations for women. India 'most dangerous' in terms of sexual violence on the Reuters list. Watch this video for more information.

India 'most dangerous' in terms of sexual violence on the Reuters list

This is a segment of WION which talks about Reuters report on most unsafe nations for women. Congress cites Reuters report on most unsafe nations for women to slam Modi government. Watch this video for more information.

Congress cites Reuters report on most unsafe nations for women to slam Modi government

Salman Khan's latest film 'Race 3' may be shattering box office records with its impressive earnings but the film has been rated very poorly on movie website IMDB. 
 
The film, which released on Eid, has already earned more than Rs 200 crores at the Box Office but the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-race-3-review-even-salman-khans-fans-deserve-better-than-this-144594"> film was panned by the critics.&nbsp;</a> 
 
In a new list released by IMDB, 'Race 3' has a rating of 2.6. The film, that also stars Jacqueline Fernandez, Anil Kapoor,Bobby Deol, Daisy Shah and Saqib Saleem in lead roles, ranks just above films like 'Kya Kool Hain Hum' (2.4), 'Humshakals' (2.1), 'Himmatwala' (2) and 'Ram Gopal Varma Ki Aag' (1.9).

IMDB is a user-based site and the rankings of the films are based on ratings given by readers.

The third in the 'Race' franchise, 'Race 3' has been directed by Remo D'Souza. The earlier two featured Saif Ali Khan and was directed by Abbas Mastan. Incidentally, Anil Kapoor has featured in all Race films.&nbsp;

Despite the negative reviews, 'Race 3'became the highest opener and second highest weekend opener of 2018 with an overall collection of Rs 148.05 crore.

The film has been doing good business ever since it released on Eid.

Salman Khan's latest film 'Race 3' may be shattering box office records with its impressive earnings but the film has been rated very poorly on movie website IMDB. The film, which released on Eid, has already earned more than Rs 200 crores at the Box Office but the film was panned by the critics. In a new list released by IMDB, 'Race 3' has a rating of 2.6. The film, that also stars Jacqueline Fernandez, Anil Kapoor,Bobby Deol, Daisy Shah and Saqib Saleem in lead roles, ranks just above films like 'Kya Kool Hain Hum' (2.4), 'Humshakals' (2.1), 'Himmatwala' (2) and 'Ram Gopal Varma Ki Aag' (1.9). IMDB is a user-based site and the rankings of the films are based on ratings given by readers. The third in the 'Race' franchise, 'Race 3' has been directed by Remo D'Souza. The earlier two featured Saif Ali Khan and was directed by Abbas Mastan. Incidentally, Anil Kapoor has featured in all Race films. Despite the negative reviews, 'Race 3'became the highest opener and second highest weekend opener of 2018 with an overall collection of Rs 148.05 crore.

Salman Khan's 'Race 3' becomes the lowest rated Hindi film on IMDB

The Indian government said Wednesday that the recent Reuters survey labelling India as the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-most-dangerous-nation-for-women-survey-147047">most unsafe country in the world for women</a> "used a flawed methodology to arrive" at its claim.&nbsp;

A statement from the Ministry of Women and Child Development headed by Maneka Gandhi said "the ranking is based on a perception poll based on responses to simply six questions". And that the "results are not derived from any kind of data and are solely based on inherently subjective opinions".&nbsp;

The statement also took issue wth the 548 experts Reuters spoke to, saying "information on their designation, credentials, country of expertise or qualifications is not available" and that "thus reliability is an issue".&nbsp;

The Ministry of Women and Child Development added that "the six questions posed as part of the poll cannot fairly be applied to all countries" for "female genital mutilation, stoning etc. are not practiced (sic) in India".&nbsp;

And it added that the government's own transparency and the media's independence may perhaps have built the "perception that the situation in the country is particularly bad".

 
Read the full Ministry of Women and Child Development statement:&nbsp;

 
Recent poll by a Foundation on the world’s most dangerous countries for women 2018 is not based on data but on perception of unknown persons

As per a recent poll titled ‘The world’s most dangerous countries for women 2018’ Thomson Reuters Foundation has proclaimed India as the most dangerous country for women. This proclamation is based on an opinion poll, rather than any reports or data.

Reuters has used a flawed methodology to arrive at this claim. The ranking is based on a perception poll based on responses to simply six questions. The results are not derived from any kind of data and are solely based on inherently subjective opinions. Further, the poll has been conducted with 548 respondents, which have been defined by Reuters as ‘experts focused on women’s issues’. However, information on their designation, credentials, country of expertise or qualifications is not available thus reliability is an issue. The methodology given by the organisation also includes ‘policymakers’ as one of the respondents. However, no information or opinion has been sought from this Ministry regarding this poll.

The six questions posed as part of the poll cannot fairly be applied to all countries. E.g. the age bar for defining child marriage is different in every country, mutilation as a means of punishment, female genital mutilation, stoning etc. are not practiced in India.

Further, it is due to open data sharing, a consultative policy formulation process and transparent systems of the government that problems affecting women can be highlighted. There is open communication of the government with the media, researchers and NGOs thus creating the opportunity for public debate. The strong public discourse and independent media in the country are able to openly discuss sensitive issues of violence against women and debate is encouraged. It is due to this open system that issues of women are highlighted in India, thus perhaps building the perception that the situation in the country is particularly bad.

The poll has collected opinions of 548 persons on healthcare, discrimination, cultural traditions, sexual violence, non-sexual violence and human trafficking. India is far ahead of many countries in most of these areas and has also seen significant improvement in indicators when compared with its own performance in previous years. Therefore, the ranking of India is a surprise and clearly inaccurate.

For example, as per Sample Registration Survey (SRS) released in June 2018, India has registered a significant reduction of 22% in Maternal Mortality Ratio since 2013. Further, sex ratio at birth has significantly increased across the country, pointing to a drop in sex selective abortions.

On the economic front too there has been huge progress – over 45.6 lakh SHGs have been promoted across the country for women’s livelihood with over Rs. 2000 crore available in their revolving funds. More than 1.26 crore bank accounts have been opened under SukanyaSamruddhiYojana to ensure financial inclusion of girls and more than half the Jan Dhan bank account holders in India are women. In primary and secondary levels of education, India has achieved Gender Parity with equal enrolment of girls and boys. It is thus not accurate to say that women in India lack access to economic resources.

There is positive data in the areas of violence too. There has been a drastic reduction in child marriage over the years, with reports of marriage in the age group of 0-9 years now being nil. Further, the percentage of women age 15-19 years who were already mothers or pregnant has dropped from 16% in 2005-06 to 7.9% in 2015-16.

As per NCRB data, 38,947 cases of rape have been registered in the year 2016. In the year 2014 and 2015, 36,735 and 34,651 cases were reported. The increase in reporting is a result of the favourable environment for women to access police authorities. Further, the rate of rape in India stands at 0.03 per 1000 population whereas US has reported a much higher figure of 1.2 rapes per 1000 population. The cases of acid attack are only incidental in the country and as mentioned earlier, practices of stoning, female genital mutilation etc. are not seen here. India can thus not possibly be the worst in the world in terms of violence.

Data on bonded and forced labour is also dropping drastically and the reports of crime are being dealt with seriously. Trafficking will also be comprehensively addressed through the recently prepared Trafficking of Persons (Prevention, Protection and Rehabilitation) Bill, 2018.

Despite data to the contrary, the usage of an opinion poll to peg India as the most dangerous country for women is clearly an effort to malign the nation and draw attention away from real improvements seen in recent years.

Ever since the unfortunate incident of 2012, the entire country has been alert about the safety of women and ensuring their equality at home, in the economy and in society at large. The government has been taking a lead in this direction.

The recently enacted Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act 2012, the Criminal Law Amendment Act 2013 and the Criminal Law (Amendment) Ordinance 2018 have provided more stringent punishment for rape, have broadened its definition and included new offences such as acid attack, stalking, sexual harassment, voyeurism, disrobing and sexual violence against boys below 18 years of age. Amendment in The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 has also broadened the definition of child in need of care and protection to include those children who are at imminent risk of child marriage. The Act also allow juveniles (16 years or older) to be tried as adults for heinous offences like rape and murder.

State Governments are increasing representation of women in police to 33% of the total strength, to make the force more women-friendly. Institutional support mechanisms have also been put in place like 193 One Stop Centres and Women Helplines in 31 States to provide 24 hour emergency and non-emergency response including police assistance, legal aid and legal counselling, medical aid, psycho-social counselling, temporary shelter etc. The institutions have provided support to over 12 lakh of women in the past ~3 years.

The bill making instant triple talaq a criminal offence has been approved which grants equality to Muslim women and is a powerful measure for women’s empowerment.

To ensure women have equal opportunities, loans worth Rs. 2,25,904 crore have been extended to 7.88 crore women entrepreneurs, under the MUDRA Yojana. Over 50% of the certifications provided under the PM KaushalVikasYojana have been to women. More women are joining the workforce and starting to control economic resources. Over 5 lakh women Directors currently appointed in companies, which is highest ever number in India.

Under PMAY (Urban), houses are being allotted in the name of the female head of the household or joint name of male head and wife. In PMAY (Grameen), this is being done where government land is allotted, and encouraged in other cases. Over 2 lakh houses for women sanctioned under PMAY (Grameen). The right of women to ancestral land is also being encouraged.

The government has further launched multiple scholarships with special focus on education of girl child in secondary as well as higher education which are showing significant positive outcomes. Dropouts rates have come down dramatically and more women are carrying on their education to college level and beyond.

Maternal health has also shown significant improvement with concerted efforts having been made by the government. In a major step, maternity leave has been extended to 6 months so women do not lose their jobs or income due to pregnancy. Cash incentives are also being given to mothers across the country to encourage them to register pregnancies, deliver in hospitals and access pre and post-natal care.

These efforts have shown results and the life of the average Indian woman is far improved from a decade ago. She is also in a much better position than a number of women in other countries around the world. Facts clearly show that the opinion of India as the most dangerous country for women is not a reflection of reality.

This proclamation is based on an opinion poll, rather than any reports or data.

Reuters has used a flawed methodology to arrive at this claim. The ranking is based on a perception poll based on responses to simply six questions. The results are not derived from any kind of data and are solely based on inherently subjective opinions. Further, the poll has been conducted with 548 respondents, which have been defined by Reuters as ‘experts focused on women’s issues’. However, information on their designation, credentials, country of expertise or qualifications is not available thus reliability is an issue. The methodology given by the organisation also includes ‘policymakers’ as one of the respondents. However, no information or opinion has been sought from this Ministry regarding this poll.

The six questions posed as part of the poll cannot fairly be applied to all countries. E.g. the age bar for defining child marriage is different in every country, mutilation as a means of punishment, female genital mutilation, stoning etc. are not practiced in India.

Further, it is due to open data sharing, a consultative policy formulation process and transparent systems of the government that problems affecting women can be highlighted. There is open communication of the government with the media, researchers and NGOs thus creating the opportunity for public debate. The strong public discourse and independent media in the country are able to openly discuss sensitive issues of violence against women and debate is encouraged. It is due to this open system that issues of women are highlighted in India, thus perhaps building the perception that the situation in the country is particularly bad.

The Ministry of Women and Chid Development headed by Maneka Gandhi said the government's own transparency and the media's independence may perhaps have built the 'perception that the situation in the country is particularly bad'

The Indian government said Wednesday that the recent Reuters survey labelling India as the most unsafe country in the world for women "used a flawed methodology to arrive" at its claim. A statement from the Ministry of Women and Child Development headed by Maneka Gandhi said "the ranking is based on a perception poll based on responses to simply six questions". And that the "results are not derived from any kind of data and are solely based on inherently subjective opinions". The statement also took issue wth the 548 experts Reuters spoke to, saying "information on their designation, credentials, country of expertise or qualifications is not available" and that "thus reliability is an issue". The Ministry of Women and Child Development added that "the six questions posed as part of the poll cannot fairly be applied to all countries" for "female genital mutilation, stoning etc. are not practiced (sic) in India". And it added that the government's own transparency and the media's independence may perhaps have built the "perception that the situation in the country is particularly bad". Read the full Ministry of Women and Child Development statement: Recent poll by a Foundation on the world’s most dangerous countries for women 2018 is not based on data but on perception of unknown persons As per a recent poll titled ‘The world’s most dangerous countries for women 2018’ Thomson Reuters Foundation has proclaimed India as the most dangerous country for women. This proclamation is based on an opinion poll, rather than any reports or data. Reuters has used a flawed methodology to arrive at this claim. The ranking is based on a perception poll based on responses to simply six questions. The results are not derived from any kind of data and are solely based on inherently subjective opinions. Further, the poll has been conducted with 548 respondents, which have been defined by Reuters as ‘experts focused on women’s issues’. However, information on their designation, credentials, country of expertise or qualifications is not available thus reliability is an issue. The methodology given by the organisation also includes ‘policymakers’ as one of the respondents. However, no information or opinion has been sought from this Ministry regarding this poll. The six questions posed as part of the poll cannot fairly be applied to all countries. E.g. the age bar for defining child marriage is different in every country, mutilation as a means of punishment, female genital mutilation, stoning etc. are not practiced in India. Further, it is due to open data sharing, a consultative policy formulation process and transparent systems of the government that problems affecting women can be highlighted. There is open communication of the government with the media, researchers and NGOs thus creating the opportunity for public debate. The strong public discourse and independent media in the country are able to openly discuss sensitive issues of violence against women and debate is encouraged. It is due to this open system that issues of women are highlighted in India, thus perhaps building the perception that the situation in the country is particularly bad. The poll has collected opinions of 548 persons on healthcare, discrimination, cultural traditions, sexual violence, non-sexual violence and human trafficking. India is far ahead of many countries in most of these areas and has also seen significant improvement in indicators when compared with its own performance in previous years. Therefore, the ranking of India is a surprise and clearly inaccurate. For example, as per Sample Registration Survey (SRS) released in June 2018, India has registered a significant reduction of 22% in Maternal Mortality Ratio since 2013. Further, sex ratio at birth has significantly increased across the country, pointing to a drop in sex selective abortions. On the economic front too there has been huge progress – over 45.6 lakh SHGs have been promoted across the country for women’s livelihood with over Rs. 2000 crore available in their revolving funds. More than 1.26 crore bank accounts have been opened under SukanyaSamruddhiYojana to ensure financial inclusion of girls and more than half the Jan Dhan bank account holders in India are women. In primary and secondary levels of education, India has achieved Gender Parity with equal enrolment of girls and boys. It is thus not accurate to say that women in India lack access to economic resources. There is positive data in the areas of violence too. There has been a drastic reduction in child marriage over the years, with reports of marriage in the age group of 0-9 years now being nil. Further, the percentage of women age 15-19 years who were already mothers or pregnant has dropped from 16% in 2005-06 to 7.9% in 2015-16. As per NCRB data, 38,947 cases of rape have been registered in the year 2016. In the year 2014 and 2015, 36,735 and 34,651 cases were reported. The increase in reporting is a result of the favourable environment for women to access police authorities. Further, the rate of rape in India stands at 0.03 per 1000 population whereas US has reported a much higher figure of 1.2 rapes per 1000 population. The cases of acid attack are only incidental in the country and as mentioned earlier, practices of stoning, female genital mutilation etc. are not seen here. India can thus not possibly be the worst in the world in terms of violence. Data on bonded and forced labour is also dropping drastically and the reports of crime are being dealt with seriously. Trafficking will also be comprehensively addressed through the recently prepared Trafficking of Persons (Prevention, Protection and Rehabilitation) Bill, 2018. Despite data to the contrary, the usage of an opinion poll to peg India as the most dangerous country for women is clearly an effort to malign the nation and draw attention away from real improvements seen in recent years. Ever since the unfortunate incident of 2012, the entire country has been alert about the safety of women and ensuring their equality at home, in the economy and in society at large. The government has been taking a lead in this direction. The recently enacted Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act 2012, the Criminal Law Amendment Act 2013 and the Criminal Law (Amendment) Ordinance 2018 have provided more stringent punishment for rape, have broadened its definition and included new offences such as acid attack, stalking, sexual harassment, voyeurism, disrobing and sexual violence against boys below 18 years of age. Amendment in The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 has also broadened the definition of child in need of care and protection to include those children who are at imminent risk of child marriage. The Act also allow juveniles (16 years or older) to be tried as adults for heinous offences like rape and murder. State Governments are increasing representation of women in police to 33% of the total strength, to make the force more women-friendly. Institutional support mechanisms have also been put in place like 193 One Stop Centres and Women Helplines in 31 States to provide 24 hour emergency and non-emergency response including police assistance, legal aid and legal counselling, medical aid, psycho-social counselling, temporary shelter etc. The institutions have provided support to over 12 lakh of women in the past ~3 years. The bill making instant triple talaq a criminal offence has been approved which grants equality to Muslim women and is a powerful measure for women’s empowerment. To ensure women have equal opportunities, loans worth Rs. 2,25,904 crore have been extended to 7.88 crore women entrepreneurs, under the MUDRA Yojana. Over 50% of the certifications provided under the PM KaushalVikasYojana have been to women. More women are joining the workforce and starting to control economic resources. Over 5 lakh women Directors currently appointed in companies, which is highest ever number in India. Under PMAY (Urban), houses are being allotted in the name of the female head of the household or joint name of male head and wife. In PMAY (Grameen), this is being done where government land is allotted, and encouraged in other cases. Over 2 lakh houses for women sanctioned under PMAY (Grameen). The right of women to ancestral land is also being encouraged. The government has further launched multiple scholarships with special focus on education of girl child in secondary as well as higher education which are showing significant positive outcomes. Dropouts rates have come down dramatically and more women are carrying on their education to college level and beyond. Maternal health has also shown significant improvement with concerted efforts having been made by the government. In a major step, maternity leave has been extended to 6 months so women do not lose their jobs or income due to pregnancy. Cash incentives are also being given to mothers across the country to encourage them to register pregnancies, deliver in hospitals and access pre and post-natal care. These efforts have shown results and the life of the average Indian woman is far improved from a decade ago. She is also in a much better position than a number of women in other countries around the world. Facts clearly show that the opinion of India as the most dangerous country for women is not a reflection of reality. This proclamation is based on an opinion poll, rather than any reports or data. Reuters has used a flawed methodology to arrive at this claim. The ranking is based on a perception poll based on responses to simply six questions. The results are not derived from any kind of data and are solely based on inherently subjective opinions. Further, the poll has been conducted with 548 respondents, which have been defined by Reuters as ‘experts focused on women’s issues’. However, information on their designation, credentials, country of expertise or qualifications is not available thus reliability is an issue. The methodology given by the organisation also includes ‘policymakers’ as one of the respondents. However, no information or opinion has been sought from this Ministry regarding this poll. The six questions posed as part of the poll cannot fairly be applied to all countries. E.g. the age bar for defining child marriage is different in every country, mutilation as a means of punishment, female genital mutilation, stoning etc. are not practiced in India. Further, it is due to open data sharing, a consultative policy formulation process and transparent systems of the government that problems affecting women can be highlighted. There is open communication of the government with the media, researchers and NGOs thus creating the opportunity for public debate. The strong public discourse and independent media in the country are able to openly discuss sensitive issues of violence against women and debate is encouraged. It is due to this open system that issues of women are highlighted in India, thus perhaps building the perception that the situation in the country is particularly bad.

India most unsafe country for women: Govt says survey used 'flawed methodology'

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said on Tuesday that there would be "no compromise" in the prohibition policy, but hinted that amendments, aimed at eradicating alleged misuse of the anti-liquor law, may be introduced in the upcoming state legislative assembly session.

The chief minister said a committee of officials from the Home and Prohibition and Excise departments has been set up to look into complaints of misuse of the prohibition law, and come up with suitable amendments that would be vetted by experts in the Law department.

He was speaking at a function organised in Patna to mark International Day Against Drug Abuse.&nbsp

"The ban on sale and consumption of alcohol has brought innumerable benefits. People's quality of life has improved. I feel disgusted when people suggest that we should not have introduced prohibition since liquor brings lots of revenue," Kumar said.&nbsp

"We may have lost Rs 5,000 crore in revenue annually, but a number of studies have shown that households have saved more than Rs 10,000 crore a year, earlier splurged on drinking. This is what matters more to us than anything else,"&nbsphe said.&nbsp

Besides, there have been surveys that have reported a drop in various types of crimes and instances of mental afflictions such as depression and anxiety after Bihar became "sharab-mukt", Kumar said.&nbsp

Expressing grief over incidents such as the death of a few people in Begusarai yesterday after consuming surgical spirit and hooch tragedies in districts of Gopalganj, Vaishali and Rohtas earlier, he said that "bad deeds by a handful of people can not undo the benefits of a good step".&nbsp

"We have heard complaints that the provisions of the prohibition law are being misused. There are allegations that people in the administrative machinery are often to be blamed for such misuse.&nbsp

"We are not turning a blind eye. A committee of officials "from the departments of Home and Prohibition and Excise"&nbspis at work. It will come up with amendments and the same will be vetted by the Law department," he said.&nbsp

There are now no hiccups as the government has also obtained permission from the Supreme Court which is reviewing our prohibition law, Kumar said.&nbsp

"The monsoon session of the House is to begin next month. The issue may be resolved therein. But there is no question of a compromise on the issue of the ban on alcohol. It is there to stay," the chief minister said.

Opposition leaders such as former chief minister and Hindustani Awam Morcha president Jitan Ram Manjhi have been severely critical of the prohibition and have alleged that only the poor and mainly those from lower castes are victimised.

Many poor families are dependent on sale and manufacture of country-made liquor, he had said&nbsp

The main opposition RJD, which was an alliance partner of Kumar-led JD(U) when the ban on alcohol was introduced, has said that while it supported prohibition it would slash the "draconian" provisions of the current law under which a violator may be imprisoned for a period of up to 10 years.&nbsp

Nitish Kumar was speaking at a function organised in Patna to mark International Day Against Drug Abuse

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said on Tuesday that there would be "no compromise" in the prohibition policy, but hinted that amendments, aimed at eradicating alleged misuse of the anti-liquor law, may be introduced in the upcoming state legislative assembly session. The chief minister said a committee of officials from the Home and Prohibition and Excise departments has been set up to look into complaints of misuse of the prohibition law, and come up with suitable amendments that would be vetted by experts in the Law department. He was speaking at a function organised in Patna to mark International Day Against Drug Abuse. "The ban on sale and consumption of alcohol has brought innumerable benefits. People's quality of life has improved. I feel disgusted when people suggest that we should not have introduced prohibition since liquor brings lots of revenue," Kumar said. "We may have lost Rs 5,000 crore in revenue annually, but a number of studies have shown that households have saved more than Rs 10,000 crore a year, earlier splurged on drinking. This is what matters more to us than anything else,"&nbsphe said. Besides, there have been surveys that have reported a drop in various types of crimes and instances of mental afflictions such as depression and anxiety after Bihar became "sharab-mukt", Kumar said. Expressing grief over incidents such as the death of a few people in Begusarai yesterday after consuming surgical spirit and hooch tragedies in districts of Gopalganj, Vaishali and Rohtas earlier, he said that "bad deeds by a handful of people can not undo the benefits of a good step". "We have heard complaints that the provisions of the prohibition law are being misused. There are allegations that people in the administrative machinery are often to be blamed for such misuse. "We are not turning a blind eye. A committee of officials "from the departments of Home and Prohibition and Excise"&nbspis at work. It will come up with amendments and the same will be vetted by the Law department," he said. There are now no hiccups as the government has also obtained permission from the Supreme Court which is reviewing our prohibition law, Kumar said. "The monsoon session of the House is to begin next month. The issue may be resolved therein. But there is no question of a compromise on the issue of the ban on alcohol. It is there to stay," the chief minister said. Opposition leaders such as former chief minister and Hindustani Awam Morcha president Jitan Ram Manjhi have been severely critical of the prohibition and have alleged that only the poor and mainly those from lower castes are victimised. Many poor families are dependent on sale and manufacture of country-made liquor, he had said The main opposition RJD, which was an alliance partner of Kumar-led JD(U) when the ban on alcohol was introduced, has said that while it supported prohibition it would slash the "draconian" provisions of the current law under which a violator may be imprisoned for a period of up to 10 years.

No compromise on prohibition law, but there may be amendments: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar

This is a segment of WION which talks about 26/11 Mumbai attacks. Key hearing in 26/11 Mumbai attacks case adjourned. Watch this video for more information.

Key hearing in 26/11 Mumbai attacks case adjourned

This is a segment of WION which talks about strengthening India's cyber security. Indian Army Chief said, "Need to address cyber threats". Watch this video for more information.

Strengthening India's cyber security; Indian Army Chief says need to address cyber threats

A noted South Indian female actress, who was allegedly sexually assaulted in a moving car last year, today resigned from AMMA (Association of Malayalam Movie Artists), alleging that it had failed to stand by her during the crisis.

Extending their solidarity with her, three prominent Malayalam actresses -- Remya Nambeesan, Reema Kallingal and Geethu Mohandas -- also announced their decision to quit AMMA.

Their resignation, announced through the Facebook page of Women in Cinema Collective (WCC), came days after a general body meeting of AMMA reportedly decided to take back actor <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/malayali-star-dileep-arrested-in-malayali-actress-molestation-case-17799">Dileep</a>, an accused in the sexual assault case, into its fold.

A police officer, who was&nbsp;overseeing the investigation in the case, told PTI that Dileep was arrested for the second time after questioning in view of the fresh revelations in the case.

In her Facebook post, the actress said she had decided to quit AMMA, not in protest against its decision to take back the accused in her case, but due to 'bitter experiences' with AMMA.

She alleged Dileep had spoilt her chances of acting in many films in the past and that AMMA had not taken any action against him, though she had lodged a complaint.

The organisation even tried to shield him after the sexual assault on her, she alleged.

"I am quitting as I feel that there is no meaning in further associating myself with this organisation," she said.

Announcing their decision to quit AMMA, the other actresses alleged the organisation did not stand with the victim, a member, and had instead supported Dileep.

They said they were shocked to hear that AMMA general body had decided to take back the actor "in an undemocratic manner."

On February 17, the actress was molested in a moving car when she was travelling to Kochi for work. She was held captive in the car for almost two hours and molested by four men who also took her photographs on their cellphone. She was dumped near the house of a director, who informed the police.

Seven people, including key accused '<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/malayali-star-dileep-offered-pulsar-suni-rs-15-crores-to-assault-actress-chargesheet-24889">Pulsar' Suni</a>, were arrested in connection with the actor's abduction case.

Extending their solidarity with her, three prominent Malayalam actresses -- Remya Nambeesan, Reema Kallingal and Geethu Mohandas -- also announced their decision to quit AMMA

A noted South Indian female actress, who was allegedly sexually assaulted in a moving car last year, today resigned from AMMA (Association of Malayalam Movie Artists), alleging that it had failed to stand by her during the crisis. Extending their solidarity with her, three prominent Malayalam actresses -- Remya Nambeesan, Reema Kallingal and Geethu Mohandas -- also announced their decision to quit AMMA. Their resignation, announced through the Facebook page of Women in Cinema Collective (WCC), came days after a general body meeting of AMMA reportedly decided to take back actor Dileep, an accused in the sexual assault case, into its fold. A police officer, who was overseeing the investigation in the case, told PTI that Dileep was arrested for the second time after questioning in view of the fresh revelations in the case. In her Facebook post, the actress said she had decided to quit AMMA, not in protest against its decision to take back the accused in her case, but due to 'bitter experiences' with AMMA. She alleged Dileep had spoilt her chances of acting in many films in the past and that AMMA had not taken any action against him, though she had lodged a complaint. The organisation even tried to shield him after the sexual assault on her, she alleged. "I am quitting as I feel that there is no meaning in further associating myself with this organisation," she said. Announcing their decision to quit AMMA, the other actresses alleged the organisation did not stand with the victim, a member, and had instead supported Dileep. They said they were shocked to hear that AMMA general body had decided to take back the actor "in an undemocratic manner." On February 17, the actress was molested in a moving car when she was travelling to Kochi for work. She was held captive in the car for almost two hours and molested by four men who also took her photographs on their cellphone. She was dumped near the house of a director, who informed the police. Seven people, including key accused 'Pulsar' Suni, were arrested in connection with the actor's abduction case.

South Indian actress assaulted in car quits Association of Malayalam Movie Artists

This is a segment of WION which talks about heli-taxi. Heli-taxi facility in India's Silicon Valley Bengaluru is the first of its kind in Asia. Watch this video for more information.

Heli-taxi facility in India's Silicon Valley Bengaluru is the first of its kind in Asia

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