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Minister of state for external affairs MJ Akbar on Tuesday said if fugitive liquor baron Vijay Mallya wanted to repay his bank dues, he had many years to do so.&nbsp

"If Mallya wanted to pay to the banks, I think he had ... many, many years in which he could have done so," Akbar told a press conference, in response to a question about the fugitive liquor baron claiming that he had tried to settle the dues and had become a victim of sorts.&nbsp

Mallya, who is wanted in India for bank loan default, today said he had become the "Poster Boy" of bank default and a lightning rod of public anger, and that there was nothing he could do "if politically motivated extraneous factors interfere" with his efforts to settle the dues.&nbsp

Speaking after "two years of silence" on the controversy surrounding him in the over Rs 9,000-crore Kingfisher Airlines loan default case, Mallya denied that he was a wilful defaulter.

Mallya is currently undergoing an extradition trial in a UK court over fraud and money-laundering charges by Indian authorities.

Mallya, who is wanted in India for bank loan default, today said he had become the "Poster Boy" of bank default and a lightning rod of public anger, and that there was nothing he could do "if politically motivated extraneous factors interfere" with his efforts to settle the dues.

Minister of state for external affairs MJ Akbar on Tuesday said if fugitive liquor baron Vijay Mallya wanted to repay his bank dues, he had many years to do so. "If Mallya wanted to pay to the banks, I think he had ... many, many years in which he could have done so," Akbar told a press conference, in response to a question about the fugitive liquor baron claiming that he had tried to settle the dues and had become a victim of sorts. Mallya, who is wanted in India for bank loan default, today said he had become the "Poster Boy" of bank default and a lightning rod of public anger, and that there was nothing he could do "if politically motivated extraneous factors interfere" with his efforts to settle the dues. Speaking after "two years of silence" on the controversy surrounding him in the over Rs 9,000-crore Kingfisher Airlines loan default case, Mallya denied that he was a wilful defaulter. Mallya is currently undergoing an extradition trial in a UK court over fraud and money-laundering charges by Indian authorities.

If Vijay Mallya wanted to repay debts, he had many years to do so: MJ Akbar

Former president Pranab Mukherjee's presence at an RSS valedictory session earlier this month has spiked people's requests to join the organisation, particularly in his native West Bengal, a senior state RSS leader claimed on Monday.

Senior RSS leader Biplab Roy said the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) was receiving many applications by those wanting to join the organisation post-Mukherjee's speech at Nagpur on June 7.

"From June 1 to June 6, on an average, we used to receive 378 requests every day on our website 'Join RSS' at the national level. On June 7, the day Mukherjee addressed our Shiksha Varg, we received 1,779 requests. After June 7, we have been receiving 1,200-1,300 requests every day," Roy told reporters, adding that 40 percent of the requests were from Bengal.

When asked whether Mukherjee attending the program has increased the popularity of RSS among masses, the Sangh leader said, "It would be wrong to interpret it in that way that because of Mukherjee, the acceptability of RSS has increased. RSS is popular among masses because of its activities in the society.

"But, yes after Mukherjee's address there has been an increase in such interests among the masses, this is one of the reasons," he said.&nbsp

Roy, the head of media wing of RSS south Bengal unit, criticised a section of media and political parties for their "intolerance and unwarranted criticism" over Mukherjee's decision to address the RSS program.

"Many political parties talk about tolerance but they themselves have been intolerant towards Mukherjee's decision to address our program. Several prominent personalities in the past have addressed our programmes," he said.

Mukherjee was invited by the RSS to address its Shiksha Varg on June 7 and attend a parade by the Sangh workers on completion of the training camp. It was an annual training camp, meant for 'swayamsevaks' in their third year in the organisation.

Warning that hatred and intolerance diluted national identity, the former president and Congress veteran had said nationalism was not bound by race or religion, as he called for dialogue to reconcile differences.

Roy said the RSS has been making steady growth in West Bengal.

Till few years back, the RSS used to run 700 shakas in south Bengal region and 300 shakas in north Bengal, but now we are running 1,200 and 400 shakas, respectively in the south and north Bengal, he said.

Another senior RSS leader Jishnu Basu said under the 'Join RSS' portal, the "position of Bengal in terms of people joining the Sangh is either second or third after Karnataka".&nbsp

Senior RSS leader Biplab Roy said the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) was receiving many applications by those wanting to join the organisation post-Mukherjee's speech at Nagpur on June 7

Former president Pranab Mukherjee's presence at an RSS valedictory session earlier this month has spiked people's requests to join the organisation, particularly in his native West Bengal, a senior state RSS leader claimed on Monday. Senior RSS leader Biplab Roy said the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) was receiving many applications by those wanting to join the organisation post-Mukherjee's speech at Nagpur on June 7. "From June 1 to June 6, on an average, we used to receive 378 requests every day on our website 'Join RSS' at the national level. On June 7, the day Mukherjee addressed our Shiksha Varg, we received 1,779 requests. After June 7, we have been receiving 1,200-1,300 requests every day," Roy told reporters, adding that 40 percent of the requests were from Bengal. When asked whether Mukherjee attending the program has increased the popularity of RSS among masses, the Sangh leader said, "It would be wrong to interpret it in that way that because of Mukherjee, the acceptability of RSS has increased. RSS is popular among masses because of its activities in the society. "But, yes after Mukherjee's address there has been an increase in such interests among the masses, this is one of the reasons," he said. Roy, the head of media wing of RSS south Bengal unit, criticised a section of media and political parties for their "intolerance and unwarranted criticism" over Mukherjee's decision to address the RSS program. "Many political parties talk about tolerance but they themselves have been intolerant towards Mukherjee's decision to address our program. Several prominent personalities in the past have addressed our programmes," he said. Mukherjee was invited by the RSS to address its Shiksha Varg on June 7 and attend a parade by the Sangh workers on completion of the training camp. It was an annual training camp, meant for 'swayamsevaks' in their third year in the organisation. Warning that hatred and intolerance diluted national identity, the former president and Congress veteran had said nationalism was not bound by race or religion, as he called for dialogue to reconcile differences. Roy said the RSS has been making steady growth in West Bengal. Till few years back, the RSS used to run 700 shakas in south Bengal region and 300 shakas in north Bengal, but now we are running 1,200 and 400 shakas, respectively in the south and north Bengal, he said. Another senior RSS leader Jishnu Basu said under the 'Join RSS' portal, the "position of Bengal in terms of people joining the Sangh is either second or third after Karnataka".

Pranab's visit spiked requests to join RSS, mostly from Bengal: RSS leader

On Tuesday Google marked Gauhar Jaan's 145th birth anniversary with a dedicated doodle. One of the first performers to record music on 78 rpm records in India she was born as Angelina Yeoward on 26 June 1873 in Azamgarh to Armenian parents.&nbsp; 
 
Her father William Robert Yeoward worked as an engineer in a dry ice factory, and her mother, Victoria Hemming, an Indian by birth, was trained in music and dance. When the marriage broke, the mother and the daughter travelled to Benaras, where Victoria converted to Islam, renaming Angelina as 'Gauhar Jaan' and herself as 'Malka Jaan'.&nbsp; 
 
Known for her exceptional beauty and talent, Gauhar Jaan represented secularism in classical music- something that Indian classical music imbibed in later years. Gauhar's maternal grandmother was Hindu, grandfather a British and father Armenian Christian. 
 
While she and her mother converted to Islam and remain devout Muslim all through her life, her compositions were mostly about Lord Krishna.&nbsp; 
 
Her formative years were spent in Calcutta where she took training in classical music and Kathak dance. Having recorded nearly 600 records from 1902 to 1920, in more than ten languages including Bengali, Hindustani, Gujarati, Tamil, Marathi, Arabic, Persian, Pushto, French, and English, the singer-dancer was the court musician for the Darbhanga king. &nbsp;She would typically round off her performances for a record by announcing 'My name is Gohar Jan'.&nbsp; 
 
One of the few artists to have performed at the coronation of King George V at Delhi Durbar, where she sang a duet, Ye Hai Tajposhi Ka Jalsa, Mubarak Ho Mubarak Ho, with Jankibai of Allahabad, Gauhar Jaan settled in Mysore in her later years. She was appointed as the palace musician at &nbsp;Krishna Raja Wadiyar's court in Mysore where she ultimately breathed her last in 1930.&nbsp;

Known for condensing elaborate classical compositions into three minute long songs, Gauhar Jaan popularised light Hindustani classical music with her thumri, dadra, kajri, chaiti, bhajan, tarana renditions.&nbsp;

Today's doodle has been illustrated by artist Aditi Damle.&nbsp;

Google marked the singer's 145th birth anniversary with a unique doodle.

On Tuesday Google marked Gauhar Jaan's 145th birth anniversary with a dedicated doodle. One of the first performers to record music on 78 rpm records in India she was born as Angelina Yeoward on 26 June 1873 in Azamgarh to Armenian parents. Her father William Robert Yeoward worked as an engineer in a dry ice factory, and her mother, Victoria Hemming, an Indian by birth, was trained in music and dance. When the marriage broke, the mother and the daughter travelled to Benaras, where Victoria converted to Islam, renaming Angelina as 'Gauhar Jaan' and herself as 'Malka Jaan'. Known for her exceptional beauty and talent, Gauhar Jaan represented secularism in classical music- something that Indian classical music imbibed in later years. Gauhar's maternal grandmother was Hindu, grandfather a British and father Armenian Christian. While she and her mother converted to Islam and remain devout Muslim all through her life, her compositions were mostly about Lord Krishna. Her formative years were spent in Calcutta where she took training in classical music and Kathak dance. Having recorded nearly 600 records from 1902 to 1920, in more than ten languages including Bengali, Hindustani, Gujarati, Tamil, Marathi, Arabic, Persian, Pushto, French, and English, the singer-dancer was the court musician for the Darbhanga king. She would typically round off her performances for a record by announcing 'My name is Gohar Jan'. One of the few artists to have performed at the coronation of King George V at Delhi Durbar, where she sang a duet, Ye Hai Tajposhi Ka Jalsa, Mubarak Ho Mubarak Ho, with Jankibai of Allahabad, Gauhar Jaan settled in Mysore in her later years. She was appointed as the palace musician at Krishna Raja Wadiyar's court in Mysore where she ultimately breathed her last in 1930. Known for condensing elaborate classical compositions into three minute long songs, Gauhar Jaan popularised light Hindustani classical music with her thumri, dadra, kajri, chaiti, bhajan, tarana renditions. Today's doodle has been illustrated by artist Aditi Damle.

Google honours legendary singer Gauhar Jaan with a doodle

Army Major Nikhil Handa, who is accused of killing<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/army-majors-wife-last-facebook-post-before-she-was-brutally-murdered-146862"> Shailja Dwivedi, wife of his fellow officer,</a> exchanged over 3,300 calls and messages since January with the victim, the police said.

"Nikhil told us that he was in contact with the victim since 2015. During investigation, we found that they have been talking to each other for a long time. In fact this year since January 1, Nikhil called her 3,300 times," Deputy Commissioner of Police Vijay Kumar said.

A media report said that the major first met Shailja on Facebook after he saw her picture on a common friend's timeline in 2015.&nbsp;He then befriended her husband to meet her. Since then the Major became a frequent visitor to their home.

The report further said that that he tried convincing Shailja to divorce her husband and marry him.&nbsp;

A day before the Delhi court had sent Major Handa to four-day police custody.

The police arrested Handa on Sunday from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh for allegedly killing the wife of his fellow army officer after she refused to marry him. Major Handa was currently posted in Nagaland's Dimapur.

The deceased`s body was found with her throat slit in Delhi`s Brar Square area on Saturday.

Kumar said the police have recovered "enough elements required to file a strong chargesheet in the case."

Meanwhile, the police have also found the victim's mobile phone from a dustbin in Saket.

Major Nikhil had destroyed the phone and removed the victim's SIM card.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

'Nikhil told us that he was in contact with the victim since 2015. During investigation, we found that they have been talking to each other for a long time. In fact this year since January 1, Nikhil called her 3,300 times,' Deputy Commissioner of Police Vijay Kumar said

Army Major Nikhil Handa, who is accused of killing Shailja Dwivedi, wife of his fellow officer, exchanged over 3,300 calls and messages since January with the victim, the police said. "Nikhil told us that he was in contact with the victim since 2015. During investigation, we found that they have been talking to each other for a long time. In fact this year since January 1, Nikhil called her 3,300 times," Deputy Commissioner of Police Vijay Kumar said. A media report said that the major first met Shailja on Facebook after he saw her picture on a common friend's timeline in 2015. He then befriended her husband to meet her. Since then the Major became a frequent visitor to their home. The report further said that that he tried convincing Shailja to divorce her husband and marry him. A day before the Delhi court had sent Major Handa to four-day police custody. The police arrested Handa on Sunday from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh for allegedly killing the wife of his fellow army officer after she refused to marry him. Major Handa was currently posted in Nagaland's Dimapur. The deceased`s body was found with her throat slit in Delhi`s Brar Square area on Saturday. Kumar said the police have recovered "enough elements required to file a strong chargesheet in the case." Meanwhile, the police have also found the victim's mobile phone from a dustbin in Saket. Major Nikhil had destroyed the phone and removed the victim's SIM card. (With inputs from ANI)

Major Handa exchanged over 3000 calls with Army officer's wife

Just days after the <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/un-report-on-jk-is-fallacious-tendentious-and-motivated-india-144344">United Nations(UN) published a report </a>on Kashmir, India today slammed Pakistan after it raised the Kashmir issue in the world body.

India said Pakistan's cynical attempts have failed in the past and "do not find any resonance at the UN."&nbsp;

India's reaction came in the right of reply during the general debate on the responsibility to protect and prevent genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity.

A UN report last week had alleged both India and Pakistan have been committing human rights violations in Kashmir and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir(POK). In a first-ever report on Kashmir, UN demanded an international probe into incidents of alleged violations in Kashmir and POK.

India dismissed the report calling it “fallacious and motivated” and lodged a protest with the United Nations conveying its concern not to allow "individual prejudices" to undermine the credibility of a UN institution.

The report said &nbsp;there were a variety of "armed groups operating" in the Indian state of J&K declaring that "the people on both sides of the Line of Control have been detrimentally impacted and suffer from limitations or denial of a range of human rights."

The report asked for urgent repealing of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1990 and to "immediately remove the requirement for prior central government permission to prosecute security forces personnel accused of human rights violations in civilian courts."

A UN report last week had alleged both India and Pakistan have been committing human rights violations in Kashmir and POK.

Just days after the United Nations(UN) published a report on Kashmir, India today slammed Pakistan after it raised the Kashmir issue in the world body. India said Pakistan's cynical attempts have failed in the past and "do not find any resonance at the UN." India's reaction came in the right of reply during the general debate on the responsibility to protect and prevent genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity. A UN report last week had alleged both India and Pakistan have been committing human rights violations in Kashmir and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir(POK). In a first-ever report on Kashmir, UN demanded an international probe into incidents of alleged violations in Kashmir and POK. India dismissed the report calling it “fallacious and motivated” and lodged a protest with the United Nations conveying its concern not to allow "individual prejudices" to undermine the credibility of a UN institution. The report said there were a variety of "armed groups operating" in the Indian state of J&K declaring that "the people on both sides of the Line of Control have been detrimentally impacted and suffer from limitations or denial of a range of human rights." The report asked for urgent repealing of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1990 and to "immediately remove the requirement for prior central government permission to prosecute security forces personnel accused of human rights violations in civilian courts."

India slams Pakistan for raising Kashmir issue at United Nations

With two Bollywood films being made on the theme of hockey, Soorma and Gold, social media has started comparing both the stories, considering that the trailer of both is out. Given that the lead actors, Akshay Kumar for <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-gold-trailer-akshay-kumars-patriotic-fever-will-catch-up-on-you-146869">Gold</a> and <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/-soorma-is-physically-a-demanding-film-says-diljit-dosanjh-127002">Diljit Dosanjh</a> for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-soorma-new-poster-diljit-dosanjh-looks-compelling-as-a-performer-138850">Soorma</a> are both seen driven with a passion to win a gold medal at an important world event for their country -- the comparisons were expected to arise.&nbsp;

When asked about these comparisons, Soorma’s star Diljit Dosanjh said, "He is a superstar and his work is appreciated by all. People vouch for his commendable work. I, on the other hand, have just started. There can't be a comparison because he is a star, and I, a fresher." See <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-soorma-trailer-diljit-dosanjh-impresses-in-this-unique-tale-of-sport-fuelled-passion--143677">trailer</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-soorma-trailer-diljit-dosanjh-impresses-in-this-unique-tale-of-sport-fuelled-passion--143677"> </a>here.&nbsp;

In Soorma, Diljit stars as hockey player and former captain of the Indian National team Sandeep Singh. The film is based on the struggles of Singh who was paralyzed and bound to a wheelchair for 2 years after he got injured in an accidental gunshot in 2006. Whereas, Gold is a biopic on Tapan Das, &nbsp;a young assistant manager, who dreamt of playing hockey for independent India. The film is set in the year 1936.

When asked about the recent fixation with making biopics (since Soorma is also one), Diljit said, "This trend must last. It is a good thing if it does. People should know about all the people who in some way or the other inspire us. Inspiring stories are needed."

He ended it by saying that he has “lots of love” from his side for people who create issues for biopics to release on time.&nbsp;

Soorma is will hit theatres on July 13 while Gold will release on August 15.&nbsp;

With two Bollywood films being made on the theme of hockey, Soorma and Gold, social media has started comparing both the stories, considering that the trailer of both is out. Given that the lead actors, Akshay Kumar for Gold and Diljit Dosanjh for Soorma are both seen driven with a passion to win a gold medal at an important world event for their country -- the comparisons were expected to arise. When asked about these comparisons, Soorma’s star Diljit Dosanjh said, "He is a superstar and his work is appreciated by all. People vouch for his commendable work. I, on the other hand, have just started. There can't be a comparison because he is a star, and I, a fresher." See trailer here. In Soorma, Diljit stars as hockey player and former captain of the Indian National team Sandeep Singh. The film is based on the struggles of Singh who was paralyzed and bound to a wheelchair for 2 years after he got injured in an accidental gunshot in 2006. Whereas, Gold is a biopic on Tapan Das, a young assistant manager, who dreamt of playing hockey for independent India. The film is set in the year 1936. When asked about the recent fixation with making biopics (since Soorma is also one), Diljit said, "This trend must last. It is a good thing if it does. People should know about all the people who in some way or the other inspire us. Inspiring stories are needed." He ended it by saying that he has “lots of love” from his side for people who create issues for biopics to release on time. Soorma is will hit theatres on July 13 while Gold will release on August 15.

Diljit Dosanjh opens up on his film 'Soorma' being compared to Akshay Kumar's 'Gold'

According to reports Mumbai will be hit by a high tide on Tuesday raising the waves in the sea above 4:14 metres.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-in-kerala-due-to-rain-rises-to-72-147116">Also Read:&nbsp;Death toll rises to 72 due to rain in Kerala</a>

Reports further suggest that the residents of the city may suffer problems if the high tide is accompanied by heavy rains.&nbsp;

The <a href="http://wionews.com/photos/in-pics:-life-comes-to-a-standstill-as-rain-lash-mumbai--146974">heavy rains in Mumbai</a> have so far claimed the lives of seven people.

The downpour in Mumbai since Sunday has been recorded as the highest rainfall since 2015.

The rains have led to severe waterlogging disrupting the transport system and the train services in the financial capital.

A wall of a building in Wadala East had <a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-heavy-rains-lash-mumbai-but-air-quality-index-best-in-three-years-147007">collapsed in the city</a> on Monday due to the heavy downpour.

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According to the India Meteorological Department, 250mm rainfall was recorded in parts of Mumbai and Palghar, while 230mm rainfall was recorded in Dahanu on June 24 and June 25.

Reports suggest that the residents of the city may suffer problems if the high tide is accompanied by heavy rains

According to reports Mumbai will be hit by a high tide on Tuesday raising the waves in the sea above 4:14 metres. Also Read: Death toll rises to 72 due to rain in Kerala Reports further suggest that the residents of the city may suffer problems if the high tide is accompanied by heavy rains. The heavy rains in Mumbai have so far claimed the lives of seven people. The downpour in Mumbai since Sunday has been recorded as the highest rainfall since 2015. The rains have led to severe waterlogging disrupting the transport system and the train services in the financial capital. A wall of a building in Wadala East had collapsed in the city on Monday due to the heavy downpour. × According to the India Meteorological Department, 250mm rainfall was recorded in parts of Mumbai and Palghar, while 230mm rainfall was recorded in Dahanu on June 24 and June 25.

Mumbai: Death toll from rain rises to 7

India was named as one of the dangerous countries in the world for women as it came on one first rank in a poll by&nbsp;Thomson Reuters Foundation published on Tuesday.

The Thomson Reuters Foundation survey asked about 550 experts in women's issues which of the 193 United Nations member states they considered most dangerous on a range of issues.

The survey ranked India as more dangerous for women than,&nbsp;war-torn Afghanistan, Syria and Pakistan, which came in second, third and sixth place, respectively. India is also seen as more dangerous for women than Somalia, which came fourth and has been mired in conflict since 1991, and Yemen, which came eighth and is suffering from an urgent humanitarian crisis.

A total of 548 global experts on women's issues, 43 of whom are based in India, were asked questions relating to risks faced by women in six areas: healthcare, access to economic resources and discrimination, customary practices, sexual violence, non-sexual violence, and human trafficking.

India came out worst overall, and specifically worst for women in human trafficking, sexual violence and in relation to cultural, religious and tribal traditions.

When the London-based philanthropic arm of Thomson Reuters carried out the same poll in 2011, India was ranked fourth, ahead of Pakistan.&nbsp;

In this poll, India ranked specifically as the most dangerous country for sexual violence against women, which included domestic rape, rape by a stranger, sexual harassment and the lack of access to justice in rape cases and forced labour.

Experts said&nbsp;India&nbsp;moving to the top of the poll showed not enough was being done to tackle the danger women faced, more than five years after the rape and murder of a student on a bus in Delhi made violence against women a national priority.

“There was an outcry in India after the 2012 Delhi gang rape, so you would have thought things would have improved, but that does not seem to be the case even though new laws have been introduced and more women are reporting sexual crimes,” said Thomson Reuters Foundation CEO Monique Villa.

Government data shows reported cases of crime against women rose by 83 per cent between 2007 and 2016, when there were four cases of rape reported every hour.

The full results of the poll are:

1. India

2. Afghanistan

3. Syria

4. Somalia

5. Saudi Arabia

6. Pakistan

7. Democratic Republic of Congo

8. Yemen

9. Nigeria

10. United States.

(With inputs from news agencies)

Government data shows reported cases of crime against women rose by 83 per cent between 2007 and 2016, when there were four cases of rape reported every hour

India was named as one of the dangerous countries in the world for women as it came on one first rank in a poll by Thomson Reuters Foundation published on Tuesday. The Thomson Reuters Foundation survey asked about 550 experts in women's issues which of the 193 United Nations member states they considered most dangerous on a range of issues. The survey ranked India as more dangerous for women than, war-torn Afghanistan, Syria and Pakistan, which came in second, third and sixth place, respectively. India is also seen as more dangerous for women than Somalia, which came fourth and has been mired in conflict since 1991, and Yemen, which came eighth and is suffering from an urgent humanitarian crisis. A total of 548 global experts on women's issues, 43 of whom are based in India, were asked questions relating to risks faced by women in six areas: healthcare, access to economic resources and discrimination, customary practices, sexual violence, non-sexual violence, and human trafficking. India came out worst overall, and specifically worst for women in human trafficking, sexual violence and in relation to cultural, religious and tribal traditions. When the London-based philanthropic arm of Thomson Reuters carried out the same poll in 2011, India was ranked fourth, ahead of Pakistan. In this poll, India ranked specifically as the most dangerous country for sexual violence against women, which included domestic rape, rape by a stranger, sexual harassment and the lack of access to justice in rape cases and forced labour. Experts said India moving to the top of the poll showed not enough was being done to tackle the danger women faced, more than five years after the rape and murder of a student on a bus in Delhi made violence against women a national priority. “There was an outcry in India after the 2012 Delhi gang rape, so you would have thought things would have improved, but that does not seem to be the case even though new laws have been introduced and more women are reporting sexual crimes,” said Thomson Reuters Foundation CEO Monique Villa. Government data shows reported cases of crime against women rose by 83 per cent between 2007 and 2016, when there were four cases of rape reported every hour. The full results of the poll are: 1. India 2. Afghanistan 3. Syria 4. Somalia 5. Saudi Arabia 6. Pakistan 7. Democratic Republic of Congo 8. Yemen 9. Nigeria 10. United States. (With inputs from news agencies)

India most dangerous nation for women: Survey

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ive-become-poster-boy-of-bank-default-vijay-mallya-147164">Vijay Mallya: Tried to settle with banks but offers were rejected</a>

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.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-guidelines-for-pms-security-ministers-officers-wont-be-allowed-to-come-close-147192">'All-time high' threat to Modi: Even ministers to not be allowed close to PM</a>

Issuing new security guidelines to states in the wake of an "all-time high" threat to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the home ministry has said that not even ministers and officers will be allowed to come too close to the prime minister unless cleared by the Special Protection Group (SPG).

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-bill-becomes-law-after-more-than-250-hours-of-debate--147190">Brexit bill becomes law after over 250 hours of debate</a>

A bill enacting Britain's decision to leave the European Union has become law after months of debate, the speaker of parliament announced on Tuesday to cheers from Conservative Party lawmakers.

Speaker John Bercow said the EU (Withdrawal) Bill, which repeals the 1972 European Communities Act through which Britain became a member, had received royal assent from Queen Elizabeth II.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldo-foul-sets-world-cup-penalties-record-147173">Already, more penalties at this World Cup than ever before</a>

A foul on Cristiano Ronaldo during Portugal`s Group B clash against Iran on Monday resulted in a record 19th penalty at the World Cup before the knockout rounds.

Although Ronaldo`s spot kick was saved by Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand, the decision eclipsed the previous record tally of 18 penalties awarded at the 2002 World Cup hosted by Japan and South Korea.

Vijay Mallya: Tried to settle with banks but offers were rejected 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. 'All-time high' threat to Modi: Even ministers to not be allowed close to PM Issuing new security guidelines to states in the wake of an "all-time high" threat to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the home ministry has said that not even ministers and officers will be allowed to come too close to the prime minister unless cleared by the Special Protection Group (SPG). Brexit bill becomes law after over 250 hours of debate A bill enacting Britain's decision to leave the European Union has become law after months of debate, the speaker of parliament announced on Tuesday to cheers from Conservative Party lawmakers. Speaker John Bercow said the EU (Withdrawal) Bill, which repeals the 1972 European Communities Act through which Britain became a member, had received royal assent from Queen Elizabeth II. Already, more penalties at this World Cup than ever before A foul on Cristiano Ronaldo during Portugal`s Group B clash against Iran on Monday resulted in a record 19th penalty at the World Cup before the knockout rounds. Although Ronaldo`s spot kick was saved by Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand, the decision eclipsed the previous record tally of 18 penalties awarded at the 2002 World Cup hosted by Japan and South Korea.

News brief: Big stories of the day

US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley will begin her two-day visit to India on Tuesday during which she will meet senior Indian government officials and address business leaders and students.

Haley will be New Delhi from June 26-28.

She will meet with senior government officials, NGO leaders, and the interfaith community to "underscore the United States' shared values and strong alliance with the people of India,"&nbspa press statement from the US mission in New York said.

Haley will also deliver remarks to a group of business and government leaders, students, and civil society on advancing US-India relations, it added.

Nikki Haley will meet with senior government officials, NGO leaders, and the interfaith community to "underscore the United States' shared values and strong alliance with the people of India," a press statement from the US mission in New York said

US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley will begin her two-day visit to India on Tuesday during which she will meet senior Indian government officials and address business leaders and students. Haley will be New Delhi from June 26-28. She will meet with senior government officials, NGO leaders, and the interfaith community to "underscore the United States' shared values and strong alliance with the people of India,"&nbspa press statement from the US mission in New York said. Haley will also deliver remarks to a group of business and government leaders, students, and civil society on advancing US-India relations, it added.

US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley to visit India today

Check out our full review of Xiaomi's new budget phone - the Redmi Y2 - before you buy it.

Xiaomi Redmi Y2 review: Hit or miss?

Doesn’t it get embarrassing when someone asks you about your phone or any other gadget, and you end up mispronouncing the brand name? But don’t worry, you are not alone.

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A close look at how technology has fully consumed us in the day and age of video games, streaming services, instant messengers and social networks.

Technology is killing small joys of life

Bollywood is not over making song-remixes as “Simmba” star cast are now preparing to come together for a remix of old hit song of the 90’s -- Aankh Maare.&nbsp;

Ranveer Singh and Sara Ali Khan who have been announced to star together for Rohit Shetty’s “Simmba” will reportedly be performing to the song adding a zing of their characters. It will be a reprised version of the 1996 film “Tere Mere Sapne”'s hot favourite song. See the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-simmba-ranveer-singh-sara-ali-khans-first-look-revealed-as-they-start-shooting--142671">first look</a> of Ranveer and Sara from the film.&nbsp;

The original song had Arshad Warsi flirting with Simran in the 1996 film.&nbsp;

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/r-madhavan-bows-out-of-rohit-shetty-ranveer-singhs-simmba-126405">Also read:&nbsp;R Madhavan bows out of Rohit Shetty, Ranveer Singh's '</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/r-madhavan-bows-out-of-rohit-shetty-ranveer-singhs-simmba-126405">Simmba</a>

The reprised version for "Simmba"&nbsp;will be composed by Tanishk Bagchi. He has worked on many old songs and made them for the current audience including Cheez Badi, Tamma Tamma Again, The Humma Song, Gulabi 2.0, Mere Rashke Qamar, Kehdoo Tumhe, Kudiya Shehar Di, Raat Baki, Hawa Hawai 2.0, Aashiq Banya Apne, Gazab Ka Hai Din and Sanu Ek Pal Chain to his credit.&nbsp;

"Simmba"&nbsp;is the Hindi remake of Telugu film Temper. It is slated to release in December this year.&nbsp;

The song is a reprised version of 'Aankh Maare' from 1996 film 'Tere Mere Sapne'

Bollywood is not over making song-remixes as “Simmba” star cast are now preparing to come together for a remix of old hit song of the 90’s -- Aankh Maare. Ranveer Singh and Sara Ali Khan who have been announced to star together for Rohit Shetty’s “Simmba” will reportedly be performing to the song adding a zing of their characters. It will be a reprised version of the 1996 film “Tere Mere Sapne”'s hot favourite song. See the first look of Ranveer and Sara from the film. The original song had Arshad Warsi flirting with Simran in the 1996 film. Also read: R Madhavan bows out of Rohit Shetty, Ranveer Singh's 'Simmba The reprised version for "Simmba" will be composed by Tanishk Bagchi. He has worked on many old songs and made them for the current audience including Cheez Badi, Tamma Tamma Again, The Humma Song, Gulabi 2.0, Mere Rashke Qamar, Kehdoo Tumhe, Kudiya Shehar Di, Raat Baki, Hawa Hawai 2.0, Aashiq Banya Apne, Gazab Ka Hai Din and Sanu Ek Pal Chain to his credit. "Simmba" is the Hindi remake of Telugu film Temper. It is slated to release in December this year.

Ranveer Singh, Sara Ali Khan to bring back 90s hit song Aankh Maare for 'Simmba'

India has told Pakistan that no amount of "empty rhetoric" by it will change the reality that Jammu and Kashmir is an "inalienable" part of India after Islamabad's envoy to the UN made a reference to the Indian state at a UN General Assembly debate.

Pakistan's Ambassador to the UN Maleeha Lodhi's reference came during her remarks on Monday in the General Assembly debate on 'The Responsibility to Protect and the Prevention of Genocide, War Crimes, Ethnic Cleansing and Crimes against Humanity.' Ms Lodhi said people in Kashmir are among victims of "egregious crimes" such as killings and mass-blinding.

India exercised the Right of Reply, strongly rejecting Pakistan's reference to Kashmir in the 193-member UN body.

"While we are having this serious debate for the first time in a decade on an issue that is of importance to all of us, we have witnessed that one delegation has, yet again, misused this platform to make an unwarranted reference to the situation in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir," First Secretary in India's Permanent Mission to the UN Sandeep Kumar Bayyapu said in India's Right of Reply.

Sandeep Kumar Bayyapu said such cynical attempts by Pakistan to raise the Kashmir issue in the UN have failed in the past and do not find any resonance in the UN body. "I would like to place on record and reiterate that the state of Jammu and Kashmir is an integral and inalienable part of India. No amount of empty rhetoric from Pakistan will change this reality," he said.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: J&K is an integral & inalienable part of India. No amount of empty rhetoric by Pakistan will change this reality: Sandeep Kumar Bayyapu, First Secretary during right to reply at United Nations General Assembly <a href="https://t.co/vLmIYK5Eeb">pic.twitter.com/vLmIYK5Eeb</a>
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&nbsp;

In her remarks earlier in the day, Ms Lodhi had said if the international community is "selective" in its approach where it is expressing indignation at some transgressions while choosing to willfully ignore others, then any norm will be quickly turned into mere pretense.

First Secretary in India’s Permanent Mission to the UN Sandeep Kumar Bayyapu in India’s Right of Reply slammed Pakistan's use of empty rhetoric on the issue of Jammu and Kashmir which is an 'integral and inalienable' part of India.

India has told Pakistan that no amount of "empty rhetoric" by it will change the reality that Jammu and Kashmir is an "inalienable" part of India after Islamabad's envoy to the UN made a reference to the Indian state at a UN General Assembly debate. Pakistan's Ambassador to the UN Maleeha Lodhi's reference came during her remarks on Monday in the General Assembly debate on 'The Responsibility to Protect and the Prevention of Genocide, War Crimes, Ethnic Cleansing and Crimes against Humanity.' Ms Lodhi said people in Kashmir are among victims of "egregious crimes" such as killings and mass-blinding. India exercised the Right of Reply, strongly rejecting Pakistan's reference to Kashmir in the 193-member UN body. "While we are having this serious debate for the first time in a decade on an issue that is of importance to all of us, we have witnessed that one delegation has, yet again, misused this platform to make an unwarranted reference to the situation in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir," First Secretary in India's Permanent Mission to the UN Sandeep Kumar Bayyapu said in India's Right of Reply. Sandeep Kumar Bayyapu said such cynical attempts by Pakistan to raise the Kashmir issue in the UN have failed in the past and do not find any resonance in the UN body. "I would like to place on record and reiterate that the state of Jammu and Kashmir is an integral and inalienable part of India. No amount of empty rhetoric from Pakistan will change this reality," he said. #WATCH: J&K is an integral & inalienable part of India. No amount of empty rhetoric by Pakistan will change this reality: Sandeep Kumar Bayyapu, First Secretary during right to reply at United Nations General Assembly pic.twitter.com/vLmIYK5Eeb — ANI (@ANI) June 26, 2018 × In her remarks earlier in the day, Ms Lodhi had said if the international community is "selective" in its approach where it is expressing indignation at some transgressions while choosing to willfully ignore others, then any norm will be quickly turned into mere pretense.

Empty rhetoric won't change J&K's reality, India slams Pakistan at UNGA

India hand over the second Dornier aircraft to Seychelles. India and Seychelles signed six agreements in key areas including cybersecurity and took important decisions regarding maritime security and defense, on Monday.

India hand over the second Dornier aircraft to Seychelles

There is no denial that Emergency is a blot on nation’s history. Late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi suspended constitutional rights in the name of public order in order to survive politically. She subverted democracy in the name of national security and development.&nbsp;

It is also true that she apologized and withdrew the Emergency when no such pressure existed on her. A complex personality like her and an episode which touches every aspect of our constitutional system once again like others was consumed politically. It is a matter of separate discussion and debate but the fact of the matter is that BJP’s preparation for the Lok Sabha elections has already started. &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
It is for this reason that after 43 years, a public ad was issued remembering an episode on which public consensus already exists. The consensus being that it was India’s darkest hour.

By taking out the ad, BJP is pushing talking points in the public discourse for the conversations to revolve around them.

The first public declaration after withdrawing support from PDP in Jammu and Kashmir was that it was done in national interest and for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The second signal came from party insiders who hinted that operations against terrorists would increase in J&K. The act of taking back the support was instantly converted into an act of sacrifice for nation’s health.

The advertisement on Emergency is also an attempt to counter the Opposition on the issue of social rights and remind public as to what the real dictatorship looked like.

Even while speaking at the function in Mumbai, PM Narendra Modi referred to the Emergency as a lurking symptom within the Congress Party. There is nothing wrong in remembering Emergency as an assault on democracy but to consume it electorally and connect it with current developments tells us two things. One it will continue to use Emergency as a counter attack on Opposition when it comes to the right issues, and second that like surgical strike and DeMo, it will be used for elections.

BJP’s current politics also does not move beyond the past. It is stuck in what if Patel was the PM, what if Ambedkar was in Congress or what if Bose came back to India. Even the Emergency and Operation Blue Star fall in the same category.

The general elections are 11-month away and there exists no narrative of critical evaluation of government has achieved. By going back to previous episodes of violence, BJP wants to fight the elections on past rather than what it has achieved in last four years. Though a negative campaign can have resonance in main stream media, it is not clear how far issues like these will resonate with younger audience.

The turnaround from the issues of governance and growth reflects BJP’s electoral anxiety. Not only it has become politically friendless, it has been repeatedly cornered on the issues related to social unrest and law and order breakdown related to cow vigilantism. It also feels politically alienated on count of growing Opposition cooperation.

It is because of this anxiety, the electoral rhetoric is moving into familiar territory of family, national security, historical mistakes and political instability. BJP’s B strategy of 2014 will become the A strategy in 2019. &nbsp;In 2019 for this reason old slogans of temple, Article 370, national security, cultural nationalism, dynasty and urban Maoists will dominate the narrative. &nbsp;

It will not be an exception but in line with global pattern where right has been able to assert itself over the liberal order. It also shows that politics of stigma will prevail over politics of manifesto and achievements. In short run, the politics of stigma can work but in long run voters will only respond to work done on the ground because that is the only thing which matters. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The advertisement on Emergency is also an attempt to counter the Opposition on the issue of social rights and remind public as to what the real dictatorship looked like.

There is no denial that Emergency is a blot on nation’s history. Late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi suspended constitutional rights in the name of public order in order to survive politically. She subverted democracy in the name of national security and development. It is also true that she apologized and withdrew the Emergency when no such pressure existed on her. A complex personality like her and an episode which touches every aspect of our constitutional system once again like others was consumed politically. It is a matter of separate discussion and debate but the fact of the matter is that BJP’s preparation for the Lok Sabha elections has already started. It is for this reason that after 43 years, a public ad was issued remembering an episode on which public consensus already exists. The consensus being that it was India’s darkest hour. By taking out the ad, BJP is pushing talking points in the public discourse for the conversations to revolve around them. The first public declaration after withdrawing support from PDP in Jammu and Kashmir was that it was done in national interest and for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The second signal came from party insiders who hinted that operations against terrorists would increase in J&K. The act of taking back the support was instantly converted into an act of sacrifice for nation’s health. The advertisement on Emergency is also an attempt to counter the Opposition on the issue of social rights and remind public as to what the real dictatorship looked like. Even while speaking at the function in Mumbai, PM Narendra Modi referred to the Emergency as a lurking symptom within the Congress Party. There is nothing wrong in remembering Emergency as an assault on democracy but to consume it electorally and connect it with current developments tells us two things. One it will continue to use Emergency as a counter attack on Opposition when it comes to the right issues, and second that like surgical strike and DeMo, it will be used for elections. BJP’s current politics also does not move beyond the past. It is stuck in what if Patel was the PM, what if Ambedkar was in Congress or what if Bose came back to India. Even the Emergency and Operation Blue Star fall in the same category. The general elections are 11-month away and there exists no narrative of critical evaluation of government has achieved. By going back to previous episodes of violence, BJP wants to fight the elections on past rather than what it has achieved in last four years. Though a negative campaign can have resonance in main stream media, it is not clear how far issues like these will resonate with younger audience. The turnaround from the issues of governance and growth reflects BJP’s electoral anxiety. Not only it has become politically friendless, it has been repeatedly cornered on the issues related to social unrest and law and order breakdown related to cow vigilantism. It also feels politically alienated on count of growing Opposition cooperation. It is because of this anxiety, the electoral rhetoric is moving into familiar territory of family, national security, historical mistakes and political instability. BJP’s B strategy of 2014 will become the A strategy in 2019. In 2019 for this reason old slogans of temple, Article 370, national security, cultural nationalism, dynasty and urban Maoists will dominate the narrative. It will not be an exception but in line with global pattern where right has been able to assert itself over the liberal order. It also shows that politics of stigma will prevail over politics of manifesto and achievements. In short run, the politics of stigma can work but in long run voters will only respond to work done on the ground because that is the only thing which matters. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: The politics of stigma

The Congress hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday after he said "the country turned into a big jail during Emergency". He also said that then prime minister Indira Gandhi was "drunk on power" and an "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-turned-into-big-jail-during-emergency-pm--modi-147132">arrogant leader</a>".

Modi is a more brutal dictator than Aurangzeb, the Congress' Randeep Surjewala retorted.&nbsp

"Modi has talked to us about the Emergency," Surjewala added, "but will taking out his frustration on the Congress be able to cover up his empty promises?"&nbsp

Surjewala also accused Modi of obfuscating important issues by raking up the past. That people have had to bear hardship (demonetisation, GST) because of the whims of one man (Modi), that there is an atmosphere of fear in the country, and that dissent is being curtailed.&nbsp

Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel meanwhile criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for commenting on the 1975 Emergency period, and asked the party whether it would apologise for the "undeclared emergency" of the past four years.&nbsp

"Will they apologise for the undeclared emergency for last 4 years? People are being lynched and threatened, agencies are being misused, economic and civil liberties are being curtailed," he tweeted.&nbsp

Patel, who is Sonia Gandhi`s trusted aide, also defended former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, and said the BJP is raking up Emergency-based issues fearing their loss in the 2019 elections.&nbsp

"After 4 years, fear of losing 2019 elections is haunting the government & hence they are trying to take refuge in the events of 1975 Emergency. But the fact is after 1977, Indira ji apologised, corrected her mistakes & people of India voted her back" another tweet read.&nbsp

June 25 marks the day when Indira Gandhi declared a state of Emergency across the country for a 21-month period from 1975 to 1977.&nbsp

However, the BJP is observing the 43rd anniversary of this time period as a "Black Day".&nbsp

(With inputs from ANI)

Modi had earlier said former prime minister Indira Gandhi had been 'drunk on power' and an 'arrogant leader' when she declared the Emergency

The Congress hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday after he said "the country turned into a big jail during Emergency". He also said that then prime minister Indira Gandhi was "drunk on power" and an "arrogant leader". Modi is a more brutal dictator than Aurangzeb, the Congress' Randeep Surjewala retorted. "Modi has talked to us about the Emergency," Surjewala added, "but will taking out his frustration on the Congress be able to cover up his empty promises?" Surjewala also accused Modi of obfuscating important issues by raking up the past. That people have had to bear hardship (demonetisation, GST) because of the whims of one man (Modi), that there is an atmosphere of fear in the country, and that dissent is being curtailed. Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel meanwhile criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for commenting on the 1975 Emergency period, and asked the party whether it would apologise for the "undeclared emergency" of the past four years. "Will they apologise for the undeclared emergency for last 4 years? People are being lynched and threatened, agencies are being misused, economic and civil liberties are being curtailed," he tweeted. Patel, who is Sonia Gandhi`s trusted aide, also defended former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, and said the BJP is raking up Emergency-based issues fearing their loss in the 2019 elections. "After 4 years, fear of losing 2019 elections is haunting the government & hence they are trying to take refuge in the events of 1975 Emergency. But the fact is after 1977, Indira ji apologised, corrected her mistakes & people of India voted her back" another tweet read. June 25 marks the day when Indira Gandhi declared a state of Emergency across the country for a 21-month period from 1975 to 1977. However, the BJP is observing the 43rd anniversary of this time period as a "Black Day". (With inputs from ANI)

Modi a more brutal dictator than Aurangzeb: Congress

Last week, UK allotted a funding of £20 million to help tackle loneliness among people across the country. This was a significant step forward in government's strategy to bring isolated people together. In January 2018, the UK government had appointed Loneliness Minister for cross-government work on loneliness.

While announcing Tracey Crouch as the Loneliness Minister, Prime Minister Theresa May said, "For far too many people, loneliness is the sad reality of modern life."

And she was absolutely right. Social isolation, inability to deal with setbacks, emotional trauma and stress is indeed a reality now.

The sooner we accept, the better it is.

World Health Organisation (WHO) has estimated that more than 300 million people suffer from depression across the world. The report also emphasised the need for more investment in mental health care.

WHO has identified depression&nbsp;as one of the prime reasons contributing to suicide, which claims about 8 lakh lives every year.

India is finally talking about depression and anxiety

Government, people and organisations are finally discussing ways to deal with the demon called depression.&nbsp;

In March 2017, India passed Mental Health Care bill. The legislation not only decriminalises suicide but also states that a person attempting suicide will be presumed to be suffering from severe stress.&nbsp;

It sets a provision where it will be government's responsibility to rehabilitate the survivors and get them treated.&nbsp;The bill also entitles every person the right to access mental health care and treatment from health services run or funded by the government.

Mental illness, like any other disease, does not discriminate. It affects all age groups, children, youth, elderly people. Even rich, famous and successful are not immune to depression.

Government seeks to put an end to the stigma associated with mental health and tends to make healthcare accessible to everyone.&nbsp;

In India, people are now willing to reach out, both to be heard and to lend an ear.&nbsp; 
 
We need to do more

To go further, focused programmes should be developed for suicide prevention, anxiety and stress reduction, both on the national level and in every state.&nbsp;

Social isolation, due to a change in lifestyle or other unforeseen circumstances, can severely impact mental well-being. A strong need, therefore, exists to motivate and counsel affected people to have meaningful social relationships.&nbsp;

The National Mental Health Survey, 2016, conducted across 12 Indian states, has stated that 150 million persons are in need of mental health interventions and care.

According to the survey, more than 85% of medical care occurs in the private non-governmental sphere where the cost of therapy, counselling and medication is quite high. Therefore, as stated in the legislation, authorities should ensure that mental health services are provided without any discrimination, and at an affordable cost.

Also, it is a matter of concern that India lacks sufficient number of mental health professionals. More trained psychiatrists and psychologists are required at government health care centres across the country, to meet WHO prescribed norms.&nbsp;

Moreover, by setting up counselling desks, educational institutes and professional organisations can play an important role in early detection of mental disorders, like anxiety, stress, depression and any sort of addiction.

Continuous monitoring of implementations of provisions in the Mental Health Care Bill, other strategies and plans,&nbsp;is also important. 
&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

In India, people are now willing to reach out, both to be heard and to lend an ear.

Last week, UK allotted a funding of £20 million to help tackle loneliness among people across the country. This was a significant step forward in government's strategy to bring isolated people together. In January 2018, the UK government had appointed Loneliness Minister for cross-government work on loneliness. While announcing Tracey Crouch as the Loneliness Minister, Prime Minister Theresa May said, "For far too many people, loneliness is the sad reality of modern life." And she was absolutely right. Social isolation, inability to deal with setbacks, emotional trauma and stress is indeed a reality now. The sooner we accept, the better it is. World Health Organisation (WHO) has estimated that more than 300 million people suffer from depression across the world. The report also emphasised the need for more investment in mental health care. WHO has identified depression as one of the prime reasons contributing to suicide, which claims about 8 lakh lives every year. India is finally talking about depression and anxiety Government, people and organisations are finally discussing ways to deal with the demon called depression. In March 2017, India passed Mental Health Care bill. The legislation not only decriminalises suicide but also states that a person attempting suicide will be presumed to be suffering from severe stress. It sets a provision where it will be government's responsibility to rehabilitate the survivors and get them treated. The bill also entitles every person the right to access mental health care and treatment from health services run or funded by the government. Mental illness, like any other disease, does not discriminate. It affects all age groups, children, youth, elderly people. Even rich, famous and successful are not immune to depression. Government seeks to put an end to the stigma associated with mental health and tends to make healthcare accessible to everyone. In India, people are now willing to reach out, both to be heard and to lend an ear. We need to do more To go further, focused programmes should be developed for suicide prevention, anxiety and stress reduction, both on the national level and in every state. Social isolation, due to a change in lifestyle or other unforeseen circumstances, can severely impact mental well-being. A strong need, therefore, exists to motivate and counsel affected people to have meaningful social relationships. The National Mental Health Survey, 2016, conducted across 12 Indian states, has stated that 150 million persons are in need of mental health interventions and care. According to the survey, more than 85% of medical care occurs in the private non-governmental sphere where the cost of therapy, counselling and medication is quite high. Therefore, as stated in the legislation, authorities should ensure that mental health services are provided without any discrimination, and at an affordable cost. Also, it is a matter of concern that India lacks sufficient number of mental health professionals. More trained psychiatrists and psychologists are required at government health care centres across the country, to meet WHO prescribed norms. Moreover, by setting up counselling desks, educational institutes and professional organisations can play an important role in early detection of mental disorders, like anxiety, stress, depression and any sort of addiction. Continuous monitoring of implementations of provisions in the Mental Health Care Bill, other strategies and plans, is also important. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: An urgent need for improved access to mental health care

India snubbed Pakistan at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) for making a reference of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, while asserting that no 'empty rhetoric' from Islamabad will change the reality.

Breaking News: India slams Pak at UNGA, says 'empty rhetoric' will not change reality of J&K

India gifts a 2nd Dornier aircraft to Seychelles. Seychelles President Danny Faure said today as a Dornier aircraft was handed over to the island nation which would boost its capacity to conduct maritime surveillance.

India gifts a 2nd Dornier aircraft to Seychelles

Seychelles will remain a "faithful friend" and a partner to India, Seychelles President Danny Faure said today as a Dornier aircraft was handed over to the island nation which would boost its capacity to conduct maritime surveillance.

Seychelles will remain a 'faithful friend' and partner to India: Seychelles President

Issuing new security guidelines to states in the wake of an "all-time high" threat to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the home ministry has said that not even ministers and officers will be allowed to come too close to the prime minister unless cleared by the Special Protection Group (SPG).

The ministry said there has been an "all-time high" threat to the prime minister and he is the "most valuable target" in the run-up to the 2019 general elections, officials privy to the development said.

No one, not even ministers and officers, should be allowed to come too close to the prime minister unless cleared by his special security, the home ministry communication said, citing an "unknown threat" to Modi.

The SPG is believed to have advised Modi, who is the main campaigner for the ruling BJP, to cut down on road shows, which invite a bigger threat, in the run-up to the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, and instead address public rallies, which are easier to manage, an official said.

The close protection team (CPT) of the prime minister's security has been briefed about the new set of rules and the threat assessment and instructed them to frisk even a minister or an officer, if necessary.

The Prime Minister's security apparatus was reviewed threadbare recently after the Pune Police told a court on June 7 that they had seized a "letter" from the Delhi residence of one of the five people arrested for having alleged "links" with the banned CPI (Maoist), another official said.

The purported letter allegedly mentioned a plan to "assassinate" Modi in "another Rajiv Gandhi-type incident", the police had told the court.

Besides, during a recent visit to West Bengal, a man was able to break through six layers of security to touch the prime minister's feet, sending the security agencies into a tizzy.&nbsp;

Following the two developments, home minister Rajnath Singh held a meeting with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, Union home secretary Rajiv Gauba and Director Intelligence Bureau Rajiv to review the prime minister's security in the wake of inputs about threat to the Prime Minister's life.

In that meeting, the home minister had directed that all necessary measures be taken in consultation with other agencies to suitably strengthen security arrangements for the prime minister.

Maoist-hit states like Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, West Bengal were termed as sensitive by the home ministry and the police chiefs of these states were told to be extra careful when the prime minister visits their states, the official said.

Security agencies are believed to be especially monitoring the Kerala-based Popular Front of India (PFI), an outfit that the government believes is a front for radical groups.

The new security guideline was issued by the home ministry which said there was an 'all-time high' threat to the PM and that he is the 'most valuable target' in the run-up to the 2019 general elections

Issuing new security guidelines to states in the wake of an "all-time high" threat to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the home ministry has said that not even ministers and officers will be allowed to come too close to the prime minister unless cleared by the Special Protection Group (SPG). The ministry said there has been an "all-time high" threat to the prime minister and he is the "most valuable target" in the run-up to the 2019 general elections, officials privy to the development said. No one, not even ministers and officers, should be allowed to come too close to the prime minister unless cleared by his special security, the home ministry communication said, citing an "unknown threat" to Modi. The SPG is believed to have advised Modi, who is the main campaigner for the ruling BJP, to cut down on road shows, which invite a bigger threat, in the run-up to the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, and instead address public rallies, which are easier to manage, an official said. The close protection team (CPT) of the prime minister's security has been briefed about the new set of rules and the threat assessment and instructed them to frisk even a minister or an officer, if necessary. The Prime Minister's security apparatus was reviewed threadbare recently after the Pune Police told a court on June 7 that they had seized a "letter" from the Delhi residence of one of the five people arrested for having alleged "links" with the banned CPI (Maoist), another official said. The purported letter allegedly mentioned a plan to "assassinate" Modi in "another Rajiv Gandhi-type incident", the police had told the court. Besides, during a recent visit to West Bengal, a man was able to break through six layers of security to touch the prime minister's feet, sending the security agencies into a tizzy. Following the two developments, home minister Rajnath Singh held a meeting with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, Union home secretary Rajiv Gauba and Director Intelligence Bureau Rajiv to review the prime minister's security in the wake of inputs about threat to the Prime Minister's life. In that meeting, the home minister had directed that all necessary measures be taken in consultation with other agencies to suitably strengthen security arrangements for the prime minister. Maoist-hit states like Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, West Bengal were termed as sensitive by the home ministry and the police chiefs of these states were told to be extra careful when the prime minister visits their states, the official said. Security agencies are believed to be especially monitoring the Kerala-based Popular Front of India (PFI), an outfit that the government believes is a front for radical groups.

'All-time high' threat to Modi: Even ministers to not be allowed close to PM

Uber has banned a Mumbai woman&nbsp;accused of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/woman-physically-attacked-by-uber-pool-passenger-in-mumbai--146994">racism and physical assault</a> by a co-passenger from using their app. The cab company has responded to the allegations by the victim, Ushnota Paul, saying that it is against their "community guidelines."

"It is deeply upsetting and against our community guidelines. The co-rider in question cannot access the app. We’ve reached out to authorities to offer info that could be helpful in their proceedings," Uber said on Tuesday as quoted by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

Paul, on Monday, described the "worst experience" with her Uber pool ride when a co-passenger attacked her and passed racist comments after she tried to intervene when the woman started having an argument with the driver.

Narrating her ordeal on Twitter, Paul in a series of tweets said that the woman called her "chinki", "chinki s**t" and told her to remove her "dirty things" from the seat.&nbsp;

Post the argument, Paul tried to click her co-passenger's picture, however, the latter immediately snatched the phone away and threatened to break it.

"I know she would have so I didn't try clicking anymore. Before she got down from the cab, she physically attacked me, grabbed me by my hair, tore off clumps of hair, scratched my face. I tried to defend myself with both hands trying to protect my face and I got huge scratches there too," she expressed.

Despite filing a complaint, Uber refused to give the accused woman's details on grounds of "customer privacy".

"The police officer called them (Uber care) in front of me and said there's a formal complaint against this woman and yet Uber didn't help. If she's your customer, so am I. Uber won't do anything when it comes to my safety. If they don't respect what the Mumbai Police are saying to them, I am a mere civilian and definitely I am not safe," she said.

The identity of the woman has still not been revealed by the cab company.&nbsp;

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It is is deeply upsetting & against our community guidelines. The co-rider in question cannot access the app. We’ve reached out to authorities to offer info that could be helpful in their proceedings: UBER on woman allegedly assaulted by co-passenger in a cab in Mumbai. <a href="https://t.co/TZdq3JuiGv">pic.twitter.com/TZdq3JuiGv</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1011520942403702784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The woman was accused of racism and physical assault by a co-passenger who described her ordeal as the 'worst experience'

Uber has banned a Mumbai woman accused of racism and physical assault by a co-passenger from using their app. The cab company has responded to the allegations by the victim, Ushnota Paul, saying that it is against their "community guidelines." "It is deeply upsetting and against our community guidelines. The co-rider in question cannot access the app. We’ve reached out to authorities to offer info that could be helpful in their proceedings," Uber said on Tuesday as quoted by news agency ANI. Paul, on Monday, described the "worst experience" with her Uber pool ride when a co-passenger attacked her and passed racist comments after she tried to intervene when the woman started having an argument with the driver. Narrating her ordeal on Twitter, Paul in a series of tweets said that the woman called her "chinki", "chinki s**t" and told her to remove her "dirty things" from the seat. Post the argument, Paul tried to click her co-passenger's picture, however, the latter immediately snatched the phone away and threatened to break it. "I know she would have so I didn't try clicking anymore. Before she got down from the cab, she physically attacked me, grabbed me by my hair, tore off clumps of hair, scratched my face. I tried to defend myself with both hands trying to protect my face and I got huge scratches there too," she expressed. Despite filing a complaint, Uber refused to give the accused woman's details on grounds of "customer privacy". "The police officer called them (Uber care) in front of me and said there's a formal complaint against this woman and yet Uber didn't help. If she's your customer, so am I. Uber won't do anything when it comes to my safety. If they don't respect what the Mumbai Police are saying to them, I am a mere civilian and definitely I am not safe," she said. The identity of the woman has still not been revealed by the cab company. It is is deeply upsetting & against our community guidelines. The co-rider in question cannot access the app. We’ve reached out to authorities to offer info that could be helpful in their proceedings: UBER on woman allegedly assaulted by co-passenger in a cab in Mumbai. pic.twitter.com/TZdq3JuiGv — ANI (@ANI) June 26, 2018 ×

Uber bans Mumbai woman accused of racism from using app

When a 12-year-old Kulsum wrote an essay on her favourite writer JK Rowling for a school assignment, little did she know that months later the author would send her Harry Potter books and merchandises as a token of appreciation.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
 
Kulsum, a first generation English learner, studies in a remote school in Jammu called Haji Public School. The class VII student had written in her essay how she wished to meet Rowling one day.&nbsp; 
 
"I am not inspired by JK Rowling only because she writes well but also because she has faced many difficulties but she never gave up. May Allah bless JK Rowling and give her a long life so that when I grow up, I get to meet her," Kulsum wrote in her essay. 
 
The school's director and Kulsum's teacher Sabbah Haji had tweeted the essay to Rowling and invited her to visit the school.&nbsp; 
 
"Dear @jk_rowling. Kulsum, 12, a first generation English learner from the Himalayas would like to meet you someday. So come visit us at #HajiPublicSchool," Sabbah had tweeted.&nbsp;

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Dear <a href="https://twitter.com/jk_rowling?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jk_rowling</a>. Kulsum, 12, a first generation English learner from the Himalayas would like to meet you someday. So come visit us at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HajiPublicSchool?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HajiPublicSchool</a> . <a href="https://t.co/F9tvShYJsm">https://t.co/F9tvShYJsm</a>
— Sabbah Haji Baji (@imsabbah) <a href="https://twitter.com/imsabbah/status/989537945911812096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Rowling had responded to the tweet asking for Kulsum full name and address. " Please, can you send me Kulsum’s full name by DM? I’d love to send her something," the author tweeted.

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Please can you send me Kulsum's full name by DM? I'd love to send her something.
— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) <a href="https://twitter.com/jk_rowling/status/989559245996773376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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This happened in April. Two months later, Rowling kept her word and to everyone's surprise sent Kulsum and her classmates a box of gifts including entire book series, magic wands, Hedwig figure, bookmarks among others. 
 
"Today was our last day of class before Term 1 exams and look what arrived in the mail. GIFTS FROM JKR with personalized notes for Kulsum. All of class 7 (along with their director @imsabbah) lost their minds," one of Kulsum's teacher wrote in a tweet.&nbsp; 
 
Sabbah Haji, the director of Haji Public School at Breswana later took to Twitter to thank the British author. "HELLO, WORLD. SO @jk_rowling SENT A HUGE GIFT BOX FOR KULSUM AND FRIENDS. HANDWRITTEN NOTE, INSCRIBED BOOK, AND THIS IS ALMOST TOO MUCH TO HANDLE. We are so thrilled and squeaky, I cannot even. Thank you so much, Ms Rowling. Thread below. #HajiPublicSchool"&nbsp;

Rowling wrote a personal note to Kulsum which said, "“I have sent some things. I hope you like them. I am also impressed by your English. It would be an honour to meet you one day. With Love.”

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HELLO, WORLD. SO <a href="https://twitter.com/jk_rowling?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jk_rowling</a> SENT A HUGE GIFT BOX FOR KULSUM AND FRIENDS. HANDWRITTEN NOTE, INSCRIBED BOOK, AND THIS IS ALMOST TOO MUCH TO HANDLE. 
We are so thrilled and squeaky, I cannot even. Thank you so much, Ms Rowling. Thread below. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HajiPublicSchool?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HajiPublicSchool</a> <a href="https://t.co/X39EtCd9kn">https://t.co/X39EtCd9kn</a>
— Sabbah Haji Baji (@imsabbah) <a href="https://twitter.com/imsabbah/status/1010495453786464257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Here's Kulsum opening her gifts from JKR. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HajiPublicSchool?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HajiPublicSchool</a> <a href="https://t.co/FCGmAvBT76">pic.twitter.com/FCGmAvBT76</a>
— Sabbah Haji Baji (@imsabbah) <a href="https://twitter.com/imsabbah/status/1010601287207903232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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While Kulsum is yet to meet Rowling, this little gesture by the author surely made her and her friend's day.&nbsp;

Kulsum's favourite author send her a personal note and lot of Potter goodies.

When a 12-year-old Kulsum wrote an essay on her favourite writer JK Rowling for a school assignment, little did she know that months later the author would send her Harry Potter books and merchandises as a token of appreciation. Kulsum, a first generation English learner, studies in a remote school in Jammu called Haji Public School. The class VII student had written in her essay how she wished to meet Rowling one day. "I am not inspired by JK Rowling only because she writes well but also because she has faced many difficulties but she never gave up. May Allah bless JK Rowling and give her a long life so that when I grow up, I get to meet her," Kulsum wrote in her essay. The school's director and Kulsum's teacher Sabbah Haji had tweeted the essay to Rowling and invited her to visit the school. "Dear @jk_rowling. Kulsum, 12, a first generation English learner from the Himalayas would like to meet you someday. So come visit us at #HajiPublicSchool," Sabbah had tweeted. Dear @jk_rowling. Kulsum, 12, a first generation English learner from the Himalayas would like to meet you someday. So come visit us at #HajiPublicSchool . https://t.co/F9tvShYJsm — Sabbah Haji Baji (@imsabbah) April 26, 2018 × Rowling had responded to the tweet asking for Kulsum full name and address. " Please, can you send me Kulsum’s full name by DM? I’d love to send her something," the author tweeted. Please can you send me Kulsum's full name by DM? I'd love to send her something. — J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) April 26, 2018 × This happened in April. Two months later, Rowling kept her word and to everyone's surprise sent Kulsum and her classmates a box of gifts including entire book series, magic wands, Hedwig figure, bookmarks among others. "Today was our last day of class before Term 1 exams and look what arrived in the mail. GIFTS FROM JKR with personalized notes for Kulsum. All of class 7 (along with their director @imsabbah) lost their minds," one of Kulsum's teacher wrote in a tweet. Sabbah Haji, the director of Haji Public School at Breswana later took to Twitter to thank the British author. "HELLO, WORLD. SO @jk_rowling SENT A HUGE GIFT BOX FOR KULSUM AND FRIENDS. HANDWRITTEN NOTE, INSCRIBED BOOK, AND THIS IS ALMOST TOO MUCH TO HANDLE. We are so thrilled and squeaky, I cannot even. Thank you so much, Ms Rowling. Thread below. #HajiPublicSchool" Rowling wrote a personal note to Kulsum which said, "“I have sent some things. I hope you like them. I am also impressed by your English. It would be an honour to meet you one day. With Love.” HELLO, WORLD. SO @jk_rowling SENT A HUGE GIFT BOX FOR KULSUM AND FRIENDS. HANDWRITTEN NOTE, INSCRIBED BOOK, AND THIS IS ALMOST TOO MUCH TO HANDLE. We are so thrilled and squeaky, I cannot even. Thank you so much, Ms Rowling. Thread below. #HajiPublicSchool https://t.co/X39EtCd9kn — Sabbah Haji Baji (@imsabbah) June 23, 2018 × Here's Kulsum opening her gifts from JKR. #HajiPublicSchool pic.twitter.com/FCGmAvBT76 — Sabbah Haji Baji (@imsabbah) June 23, 2018 × While Kulsum is yet to meet Rowling, this little gesture by the author surely made her and her friend's day.

J&K girl writes essay on JK Rowling, author sends her Harry Potter books as token of appreciation

Makers of Fanney Khan released the much-awaited teaser today starring Anil Kapoor, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Rajkummar Rao.

Sharing the teaser today on his Twitter, Anil Kapoor wrote: “Jo khud apni kahani likhe woh hi hai #FanneyKhan…(the one who writes his own story is Fanney Khan).”

For those who are unaware, Fanney Khan is a colloquially used phrase --to describe a person who is an entertainer, charts his own journey and engages with people.&nbsp;

The teaser thus opens with the silhouette of Anil Kapoor posing on the stage with the spotlight on him, as the crowd cheers him on. The next frame is brought alive by Rajkummar, who in a voice-over explains what the true meaning of Fanney Khan is.&nbsp;

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Jo khud apni kahani likhe woh hi hai <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FanneyKhan?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FanneyKhan</a>...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FanneyKhanTeaser?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FanneyKhanTeaser</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AishwaryaRai?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AishwaryaRai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RajkummarRao?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RajkummarRao</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/divyadutta25?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@divyadutta25</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TSeries?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TSeries</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/fanneykhanfilm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@fanneykhanfilm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ROMPPictures?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ROMPPictures</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AtulManjrekar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AtulManjrekar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VirenderArora?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VirenderArora</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NishantPitti?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NishantPitti</a><a href="https://t.co/BFMwtvG39e">https://t.co/BFMwtvG39e</a>
— Anil Kapoor (@AnilKapoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnilKapoor/status/1011530624115662850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The teaser also teases a glimpse of Aishwarya Rai Bachchan who is sporting red streaks at the end of her hair.&nbsp;

Fanney Khan marks the reunion of Aishwarya and Anil after a gap of 18 long years. The duo was last seen together in the 2000 film Hamara Dil Aapke Paas Hai.

Watch the teaser here:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/A_ieXzbZm_w" width="970"></iframe>

The trailer of the film will release on August 3.&nbsp;

The trailer of the film will release on August 3

Makers of Fanney Khan released the much-awaited teaser today starring Anil Kapoor, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Rajkummar Rao. Sharing the teaser today on his Twitter, Anil Kapoor wrote: “Jo khud apni kahani likhe woh hi hai #FanneyKhan…(the one who writes his own story is Fanney Khan).” For those who are unaware, Fanney Khan is a colloquially used phrase --to describe a person who is an entertainer, charts his own journey and engages with people. The teaser thus opens with the silhouette of Anil Kapoor posing on the stage with the spotlight on him, as the crowd cheers him on. The next frame is brought alive by Rajkummar, who in a voice-over explains what the true meaning of Fanney Khan is. Jo khud apni kahani likhe woh hi hai #FanneyKhan...#FanneyKhanTeaser #AishwaryaRai @RajkummarRao @divyadutta25 @TSeries @fanneykhanfilm @ROMPPictures @AtulManjrekar #VirenderArora #NishantPittihttps://t.co/BFMwtvG39e — Anil Kapoor (@AnilKapoor) June 26, 2018 × The teaser also teases a glimpse of Aishwarya Rai Bachchan who is sporting red streaks at the end of her hair. Fanney Khan marks the reunion of Aishwarya and Anil after a gap of 18 long years. The duo was last seen together in the 2000 film Hamara Dil Aapke Paas Hai. Watch the teaser here: The trailer of the film will release on August 3.

'Fanney Khan' teaser: Believe in dreams with Anil Kapoor, Aishwarya Rai, Rajkummar Rao

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