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The Union Minister further said that the tax-related cases in the Supreme Court will be withdrawn by the government.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

The Union Minister further said that the tax-related cases in the Supreme Court will be withdrawn by the government.

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 The Union Minister further said that the tax-related cases in the Supreme Court will be withdrawn by the government.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

GST worked well, generated sufficient revenue: Piyush Goyal

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

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

One terrorist was killed while two Army personnel got injured during an ongoing encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Safawali Gal area in Kupwara along the Line of Control. According to news agency ANI, an AK-47 rifle has been recovered from the terrorist.

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Jammu & Kashmir: One terrorist killed, 2 Army personnel injured during an ongoing encounter in Kupwara's Safawali Gal along the Line of Control 1 AK-47 rifle recovered from the terrorist.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1018703294947045376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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On Sunday, a security personnel was killed while another was critically injured in an encounter between security forces and terrorists in Kupwara. The encounter took place in the Handwara region of the district.

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1 personnel killed & 1 personnel injured during encounter. Search operation was launched last evening after we got information that some terrorists are present in that area. The area is cordoned & operation is underway: AS Dinkar, SSP Kupwara on encounter in Handwara, J&K <a href="https://t.co/8p9Q40zWju">pic.twitter.com/8p9Q40zWju</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1017054205192933376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The police had launched a search and cordon operation on Saturday evening after they got information about the presence of terrorists in the area.&nbsp

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp

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

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

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

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

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

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

CIC launches bilingual mobile app for complaints

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We'll resign if territorial integrity compromised: Manipur CM

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

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

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

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

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/for-putin-helsinki-talks-with-trump-a-win-before-he-even-sits-down-151970">For Putin, Helsinki talks with Trump a win before he even sits down</a>

For US President Donald Trump, a summit with Vladimir Putin risks a political backlash at home and abroad. For the Russian president, however, the fact the summit is even happening is already a big geopolitical win.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2018-france-defeat-croatia-to-become-the-new-world-champions-151960">Les Bleus seal second World Cup triumph with </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2018-france-defeat-croatia-to-become-the-new-world-champions-151960">4-2</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2018-france-defeat-croatia-to-become-the-new-world-champions-151960"> win over spirited Croatia</a>

France won their second World Cup 20 years after their maiden triumph on Sunday, seeing off a dogged and desperate Croatia side who refused to lie down in one of the most electrifying finals in recent years.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-&-economy/boeing-needs-43000-more-planes-to-meet-demand-concerned-about-us-china-tariffs--151981">Boeing needs 43,000 more planes to meet demand, concerned about US-China tariffs</a>

The world needs to produce 43,000 new aircraft over the next two decades to meet booming demand, Boeing's CEO forecast on Sunday. Dennis Muilenberg, chief executive of the US aerospace giant, revealed the outlook upgrade to reporters in London before the sector's Farnborough Air Show starting Monday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-opens-terrorism-case-against-ex-pms-party-days-before-election-151992">Pakistan opens </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-opens-terrorism-case-against-ex-pms-party-days-before-election-151992">terrorism</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-opens-terrorism-case-against-ex-pms-party-days-before-election-151992"> case against ex-PM's party days before </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-opens-terrorism-case-against-ex-pms-party-days-before-election-151992">election</a>

Pakistani authorities have opened a criminal case against leaders of jailed ex-prime minister Nawaz Sharif`s political party under an anti-terrorism law, 10 days before a hotly contested general election, according to a police report.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-emmanuel-macron-can-bless-his-lucky-stars-again-as-les-bleus-win-world-cup-151979">Emmanuel Macron can bless his lucky stars, again, as 'Les Bleus' win World Cup</a>

France's thrilling 4-2 triumph over Croatia in the World Cup final on Sunday, their second World Cup after home success in 1998 that ushered in a wave of national optimism, is the sort of good-news fillip most presidents can only dream of.

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

News brief: Big stories of the day

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

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

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

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

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

Modi, who addressed a public rally in Midnapore

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

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

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

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

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

Many NDA MLAs willing to switch side, claims RJD

In a bid to save water and improve efficiency in the cleaning of trains, the Northern Railways has started using `Automatic Train Coach Washing System'.

The first plant of this Automatic Train Coach Washing System is undergoing commissioning trials at New Delhi's Hazrat Nizamuddin station.&nbsp

The plant, set up at a cost of 1.6 crores, has water recycling and effluent treatment setups. It has a capacity of cleaning 250 coaches per day.

This is the first time Northern Railways is going for automatic washing system even though the Konkan Railways has adopted the technology much before it.

The high-speed cleaning takes just 7 to 8 minutes to wash 24 coach rake compared to long-time taken earlier.&nbsp

The plant has a capacity to work 24x7 with an eight-hour shift each. Officials said the new system takes only 240 litres per coach as compared to 1500 litres per coach through manual washing.

Besides, the Automatic Train Coach Washing System uses only 20 per cent of fresh water and while the balance 80 per cent is the recycled water.

As for the process, washing has various stages that begins with automatic pre wash followed by detergent spray, brushing, soaking, using touchless chemical, and high pressure hot water jet cleaning.

The first plant of this Automatic Train Coach Washing System is undergoing commissioning trials at New Delhi's Hazrat Nizamuddin station

In a bid to save water and improve efficiency in the cleaning of trains, the Northern Railways has started using `Automatic Train Coach Washing System'. The first plant of this Automatic Train Coach Washing System is undergoing commissioning trials at New Delhi's Hazrat Nizamuddin station. The plant, set up at a cost of 1.6 crores, has water recycling and effluent treatment setups. It has a capacity of cleaning 250 coaches per day. This is the first time Northern Railways is going for automatic washing system even though the Konkan Railways has adopted the technology much before it. The high-speed cleaning takes just 7 to 8 minutes to wash 24 coach rake compared to long-time taken earlier. The plant has a capacity to work 24x7 with an eight-hour shift each. Officials said the new system takes only 240 litres per coach as compared to 1500 litres per coach through manual washing. Besides, the Automatic Train Coach Washing System uses only 20 per cent of fresh water and while the balance 80 per cent is the recycled water. As for the process, washing has various stages that begins with automatic pre wash followed by detergent spray, brushing, soaking, using touchless chemical, and high pressure hot water jet cleaning.

Northern Railways started using 'Automatic Train Coach Washing System'

The ruling Aam Aadmi Party said today the alleged suicide of a 17-year-old girl at a police post in West Delhi was a "custodial death" and urged Home Minister Rajnath Singh to fix responsibility of Delhi Police officials on duty there.

Delhi Police is "clearly at fault", senior AAP leader Atishi Marlena said, questioning why the minor girl was at the Tilak Vihar police post at 1.30 in the night.

"Purely a custodial death and Delhi Police and LG must own responsibility for it," she said at a press conference.

The girl's mother was also present at the press conference.

Police said the girl committed suicide as she was afraid of her family members, who were against her friendship with a 21-year-old man. She had reached the police post around 2.30 AM on July 15, where both families were present, they said.

There is disparity in the police version and the AAP claim about the time the girl reached the police post.

The girl told police that she did not want to be with her family as she was afraid.

While police officials were planning to send her to a 'nari niketan', a relative of her male friend came there and alleged that he was beaten by the girl's family.

Around 30 people were present there, according to police.

While officials tried to pacify them, the girl locked herself inside the police post and hanged herself using her 'chunni'.

But the AAP legislator from Tilak Nagar, Jarnail Singh, claimed the girl and her brother were locked in separate rooms by police due to which she got "scared" and hanged herself.

"Brother of the girl was threatened by the other party at the police post.&nbsp 
She protested it after which police locked her up and her brother in separate rooms. Scared and anguished, she hanged herself," he said.

Singh said, "it is a complete failure and negligence of police. Home Minister Rajnath Singh need to fix responsibility in the incident."

Delhi AAP women's wing president Richa Pandey regretted that no concrete action has been taken against the police post-in-charge.

Police said a magisterial inquiry is underway and action will be taken after the report is submitted.

Yesterday, sub-inspector Parvesh Kaushik, in-charge of the Tilak Vihar outpost, and woman constable Manmohan Kaur were sent to district lines for alleged negligence.

Assistant sub-inspector Sushil Kumar, the investigating officer, and duty writer head constable K Badhoriya have been suspended.

Delhi Police is "clearly at fault", senior AAP leader Atishi Marlena said, questioning why the minor girl was at the Tilak Vihar police post at 1.30 in the night

The ruling Aam Aadmi Party said today the alleged suicide of a 17-year-old girl at a police post in West Delhi was a "custodial death" and urged Home Minister Rajnath Singh to fix responsibility of Delhi Police officials on duty there. Delhi Police is "clearly at fault", senior AAP leader Atishi Marlena said, questioning why the minor girl was at the Tilak Vihar police post at 1.30 in the night. "Purely a custodial death and Delhi Police and LG must own responsibility for it," she said at a press conference. The girl's mother was also present at the press conference. Police said the girl committed suicide as she was afraid of her family members, who were against her friendship with a 21-year-old man. She had reached the police post around 2.30 AM on July 15, where both families were present, they said. There is disparity in the police version and the AAP claim about the time the girl reached the police post. The girl told police that she did not want to be with her family as she was afraid. While police officials were planning to send her to a 'nari niketan', a relative of her male friend came there and alleged that he was beaten by the girl's family. Around 30 people were present there, according to police. While officials tried to pacify them, the girl locked herself inside the police post and hanged herself using her 'chunni'. But the AAP legislator from Tilak Nagar, Jarnail Singh, claimed the girl and her brother were locked in separate rooms by police due to which she got "scared" and hanged herself. "Brother of the girl was threatened by the other party at the police post. She protested it after which police locked her up and her brother in separate rooms. Scared and anguished, she hanged herself," he said. Singh said, "it is a complete failure and negligence of police. Home Minister Rajnath Singh need to fix responsibility in the incident." Delhi AAP women's wing president Richa Pandey regretted that no concrete action has been taken against the police post-in-charge. Police said a magisterial inquiry is underway and action will be taken after the report is submitted. Yesterday, sub-inspector Parvesh Kaushik, in-charge of the Tilak Vihar outpost, and woman constable Manmohan Kaur were sent to district lines for alleged negligence. Assistant sub-inspector Sushil Kumar, the investigating officer, and duty writer head constable K Badhoriya have been suspended.

AAP questions Delhi Police over girl's death, asks Rajnath Singh to fix responsibility

The Supreme Court on Monday fixed July 30 for further hearing in the petition filed by Lt Col Karamveer Singh who had moved the court to quash the Jammu and Kashmir (J-K) Police's FIR against his son Major Aditya Kumar.

The J-K police had registered an FIR against Kumar for his alleged involvement in the Shopian firing incident earlier this year.

Singh, a Kargil war veteran, had moved the Supreme Court against the FIR lodged by the J-K police and sought quashing of the FIR.

The three-judge bench of the apex court, headed by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra, will decide on July 30 if the plea filed by Singh is maintainable or not.

The J-K government had submitted to the apex court that Singh's petition is not maintainable and should not be heard by the court. They also said that the petitioner, Singh, had no locus standi in the case and thereby his petition should not be heard.

In an earlier hearing, the J-K government, in its affidavit, had stated that there was no bar for registering FIRs or initiating any investigation against Army personnel.

On January 27, three civilians were killed after Army personnel fired at a stone-pelting mob of protesters in Shopian district.

Over 200 protesters pelted stones at the Army convoy, following which the Army personnel fired in self-defense.

Thereafter, the state police filed an FIR under sections 302 (murder) and 307 (attempt to murder) of Indian Penal Code (IPC) against the Major and his Army unit of 10 Garhwal Rifles.

The three-judge bench of the apex court, headed by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra, will decide on July 30 if the plea filed by Singh is maintainable or not

The Supreme Court on Monday fixed July 30 for further hearing in the petition filed by Lt Col Karamveer Singh who had moved the court to quash the Jammu and Kashmir (J-K) Police's FIR against his son Major Aditya Kumar. The J-K police had registered an FIR against Kumar for his alleged involvement in the Shopian firing incident earlier this year. Singh, a Kargil war veteran, had moved the Supreme Court against the FIR lodged by the J-K police and sought quashing of the FIR. The three-judge bench of the apex court, headed by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra, will decide on July 30 if the plea filed by Singh is maintainable or not. The J-K government had submitted to the apex court that Singh's petition is not maintainable and should not be heard by the court. They also said that the petitioner, Singh, had no locus standi in the case and thereby his petition should not be heard. In an earlier hearing, the J-K government, in its affidavit, had stated that there was no bar for registering FIRs or initiating any investigation against Army personnel. On January 27, three civilians were killed after Army personnel fired at a stone-pelting mob of protesters in Shopian district. Over 200 protesters pelted stones at the Army convoy, following which the Army personnel fired in self-defense. Thereafter, the state police filed an FIR under sections 302 (murder) and 307 (attempt to murder) of Indian Penal Code (IPC) against the Major and his Army unit of 10 Garhwal Rifles.

Supreme Court fixes Shopian firing case hearing on July 30

Five Sharia courts will be opened in various parts of the country, PTI reported. According to reports, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board received requests to open 10 Sharia courts across the country out of which five have been approved by the court and will be opened soon with consideration on remaining five pending. &nbsp

Out of the five approved Sharia courts, one will be inaugurated in Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh. On July 22, a Sharia court will be set up in Surat, Gujarat, while on September 9 one will be set up in Maharashtra. Another one will be opened in November and the fifth one will be set up by the end of this year in Maharashtra.

Board secretary Zafaryab Jilani noted that the news of planning to set up such courts in every district was not correct and emphasised that the courts are set up only when a proposal comes to the board.

"Local people sponsor it and bear the financial burden. Board appoints the Qazi. We establish it when a proposal comes to us," Mr Jilani said.

"The Supreme Court has already stated that it is not a parallel judicial system. The ruling by Qazis is not binding on anybody. However, more than 90 per cent people accept it. These are more like arbitration councils," he said of the Sharia courts.

(With inputs from PTI)

Board secretary Zafaryab Jilani noted that the news of planning to set up such courts in every district was not correct.

Five Sharia courts will be opened in various parts of the country, PTI reported. According to reports, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board received requests to open 10 Sharia courts across the country out of which five have been approved by the court and will be opened soon with consideration on remaining five pending. Out of the five approved Sharia courts, one will be inaugurated in Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh. On July 22, a Sharia court will be set up in Surat, Gujarat, while on September 9 one will be set up in Maharashtra. Another one will be opened in November and the fifth one will be set up by the end of this year in Maharashtra. Board secretary Zafaryab Jilani noted that the news of planning to set up such courts in every district was not correct and emphasised that the courts are set up only when a proposal comes to the board. "Local people sponsor it and bear the financial burden. Board appoints the Qazi. We establish it when a proposal comes to us," Mr Jilani said. "The Supreme Court has already stated that it is not a parallel judicial system. The ruling by Qazis is not binding on anybody. However, more than 90 per cent people accept it. These are more like arbitration councils," he said of the Sharia courts. (With inputs from PTI)

5 Sharia courts to be opened by Muslim Law Board

Volunteers of legal advocacy groups from the US have revealed that more than 50 illegal Indian immigrants, mostly Sikhs, seeking asylum in the US are being treated like animals. The volunteers also revealed that the turbans of Sikh immigrants were taken away in federal prison in Oregon due to Trump's 'zero-tolerance' policy.

Trump's policy has separated 2,000 children from their parents and placed them into facilities in the span of just one month.

"It's heartbreaking when you go in there and you see the young kids like the ages are close to starting from 18 onwards, 22 to 24 in those jumpsuits...and you wonder how they ended up being treated as criminals. They've not committed a crime, they have crossed the border and they have asked for a refugee or asylum and that is a law of this land," Navneet Kaur, a community college professor, told PTI.

The move, however, was reversed by Trump following widespread protests against the move.

Navneet, working as a Punjabi translator, interacted with 52 Indian inmates locked up in the Oregon prison in the past few weeks. Navneet is working for the non-profit legal firm Innovation Law lab providing legal assistance to the illegal immigrants in jail.

"Right now, they are [in] a miserable [condition]," added Navneet.

She also revealed that the Indians were chained when they were arrested.

"When they were in handcuffs and chains for 24 hours they ate with their handcuffs on. Even the hardcore criminals are not treated like that. Then they were kept for 22 hours a day in a cell with the people who did not speak the language," she said. "It's inhuman," she said.

The volunteer also revealed that the turbans of Sikh were taken away in the federal jail.

"Their turbans have been taken away. In a country where everyone has a right to practice their own religion these men there don't have turbans to cover (their head). Not even a piece of cloth to cover their heads," Navneet said.

During the last few days, the local community leaders have managed to give beanies to a few of the Sikh inmates so that they can cover their head.

Local communities are helping Sikhs inmates by giving them beanies for now. All the immigrants seeking asylum in the US are claiming they fear for their life in India and that they are subjected to policial and religious persecution and therefore, are not ready to return.

Indian Consulate, San Fransico recently sent its officials to meet these inmates. But, it is not clear if these Indian citizens accepted the offer of the Indian government to help them go back home.

Trump's policy has separated 2,000 children from their parents and placed them into facilities in the span of just one month

Volunteers of legal advocacy groups from the US have revealed that more than 50 illegal Indian immigrants, mostly Sikhs, seeking asylum in the US are being treated like animals. The volunteers also revealed that the turbans of Sikh immigrants were taken away in federal prison in Oregon due to Trump's 'zero-tolerance' policy. Trump's policy has separated 2,000 children from their parents and placed them into facilities in the span of just one month. "It's heartbreaking when you go in there and you see the young kids like the ages are close to starting from 18 onwards, 22 to 24 in those jumpsuits...and you wonder how they ended up being treated as criminals. They've not committed a crime, they have crossed the border and they have asked for a refugee or asylum and that is a law of this land," Navneet Kaur, a community college professor, told PTI. The move, however, was reversed by Trump following widespread protests against the move. Navneet, working as a Punjabi translator, interacted with 52 Indian inmates locked up in the Oregon prison in the past few weeks. Navneet is working for the non-profit legal firm Innovation Law lab providing legal assistance to the illegal immigrants in jail. "Right now, they are [in] a miserable [condition]," added Navneet. She also revealed that the Indians were chained when they were arrested. "When they were in handcuffs and chains for 24 hours they ate with their handcuffs on. Even the hardcore criminals are not treated like that. Then they were kept for 22 hours a day in a cell with the people who did not speak the language," she said. "It's inhuman," she said. The volunteer also revealed that the turbans of Sikh were taken away in the federal jail. "Their turbans have been taken away. In a country where everyone has a right to practice their own religion these men there don't have turbans to cover (their head). Not even a piece of cloth to cover their heads," Navneet said. During the last few days, the local community leaders have managed to give beanies to a few of the Sikh inmates so that they can cover their head. Local communities are helping Sikhs inmates by giving them beanies for now. All the immigrants seeking asylum in the US are claiming they fear for their life in India and that they are subjected to policial and religious persecution and therefore, are not ready to return. Indian Consulate, San Fransico recently sent its officials to meet these inmates. But, it is not clear if these Indian citizens accepted the offer of the Indian government to help them go back home.

Turbans of Sikh immigrants taken away in US prison

All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) on Sunday noted that the party is not in favour of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Centre's One Nation One Election proposal.

This came hours after actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth extended support to the same.

"We stand to oppose the idea of One Nation One Election. But recently a party which is going to be launched by Rajinikanth has advocated this concept. This could be his stand, as far as we are concerned we do not support it. If he (Rajinikanth) had established his party and then shared his political view then we could comment on it," AIADMK spokesperson Vaigaichelvan told ANI.

Meanwhile, the Janata Dal (Secular) (JD-S) leader Danish Ali said the implementation of One Nation One Election concept would 'weed out the regional parties'.

"Percentage of votes JD(S) got in Lok Sabha polls was less than it got in assembly polls. Any step in this direction in the implementation of One Nation One Election will weed out the regional parties. We oppose it and we have submitted the same to the Law Commission," he said.

Earlier in the day, Rajinikanth extended his support to the One-Nation-One- Election theory and said that this move will surely save public funds.

Taking to Twitter, the Tamil actor said, "I support One Nation One Election. This will save money and time."

Citing reason for proposing One Nation One Theory scheme, Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad had earlier stated that simultaneous polls will bring stability in the electoral process of the nation and save public money.

In April 2018, the Commission had stated that simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state Assemblies could be held in two phases from 2019, provided that at least two provisions of the Constitution are amended and ratified by a majority of the states.&nbsp

Earlier in the day, Rajinikanth extended his support to the One-Nation-One- Election theory and said that this move will surely save public funds.

All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) on Sunday noted that the party is not in favour of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Centre's One Nation One Election proposal. This came hours after actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth extended support to the same. "We stand to oppose the idea of One Nation One Election. But recently a party which is going to be launched by Rajinikanth has advocated this concept. This could be his stand, as far as we are concerned we do not support it. If he (Rajinikanth) had established his party and then shared his political view then we could comment on it," AIADMK spokesperson Vaigaichelvan told ANI. Meanwhile, the Janata Dal (Secular) (JD-S) leader Danish Ali said the implementation of One Nation One Election concept would 'weed out the regional parties'. "Percentage of votes JD(S) got in Lok Sabha polls was less than it got in assembly polls. Any step in this direction in the implementation of One Nation One Election will weed out the regional parties. We oppose it and we have submitted the same to the Law Commission," he said. Earlier in the day, Rajinikanth extended his support to the One-Nation-One- Election theory and said that this move will surely save public funds. Taking to Twitter, the Tamil actor said, "I support One Nation One Election. This will save money and time." Citing reason for proposing One Nation One Theory scheme, Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad had earlier stated that simultaneous polls will bring stability in the electoral process of the nation and save public money. In April 2018, the Commission had stated that simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state Assemblies could be held in two phases from 2019, provided that at least two provisions of the Constitution are amended and ratified by a majority of the states.

AIADMK opposes 'One Nation One Election' proposal

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/donald-trump-promise-extraordinary-relationship-with-vladimir-putin-as-historic-summit-open-152136">Donald Trump promises an 'extraordinary relationship' as he opens Helsinki summit with Putin</a>

The US and Russian leaders opened a historic summit in Helsinki on Monday, with Donald Trump promising an "extraordinary relationship" and Vladimir Putin saying it was high time to thrash out disputes around the world.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/india-needs-a-strong-leader-like-narendra-modi-not-a-tragedy-king-like-kumaraswamy-arun-jaitley-152103">India needs a strong leader like Narendra Modi, not a tragedy king like Kumaraswamy: Arun Jaitley</a>

Union Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday made optimum use of the 'teary-eyed' video of Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy and said, unlike Karnataka's failed coalition politics, during 2019 polls India should opt for a "strong and decisive political leadership" under Narendra Modi.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/20-injured-as-tent-collapses-during-modis-midnapore-rally-pm-visits-hospital-152077">20 injured as tent collapses during Modi's Midnapore rally, PM visits </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/20-injured-as-tent-collapses-during-modis-midnapore-rally-pm-visits-hospital-152077">hospital</a>

At least 20 people suffered injuries after a tent collapsed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rally in Midnapore, West Bengal on Monday.&nbsp

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/novichok-nerve-agent-was-in-perfume-bottle-victims-brother-152144">Novichok nerve agent was in 'perfume bottle': Victim's brother</a>

A British man exposed to Novichok, four months after the same nerve agent was used against a former Russian spy nearby, had found it in a perfume bottle, his brother said.

<a href="http://wionews.com/entertainment/model-chloe-ayling-who-was-kidnapped-last-year-i-had-to-make-my-kidnapper-fall-in-love-with-me-152085">I had to make my kidnapper fall in love with me, says abducted UK model Chloe Ayling</a>

Chloe Ayling, a 20-year-old-model from London has been in the news ever since she got kidnapped last year by a photographer who lured her into a modelling job in Milan. After being held captive in Italy for six days, the said photographer named Lukasz Herba dropped her at the British consulate in Milan. While this is a story that most of us who have been following her news are aware of, what was left out was her ordeal post-release from captivity.&nbsp

&nbsp

Donald Trump promises an 'extraordinary relationship' as he opens Helsinki summit with Putin The US and Russian leaders opened a historic summit in Helsinki on Monday, with Donald Trump promising an "extraordinary relationship" and Vladimir Putin saying it was high time to thrash out disputes around the world. India needs a strong leader like Narendra Modi, not a tragedy king like Kumaraswamy: Arun Jaitley Union Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday made optimum use of the 'teary-eyed' video of Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy and said, unlike Karnataka's failed coalition politics, during 2019 polls India should opt for a "strong and decisive political leadership" under Narendra Modi. 20 injured as tent collapses during Modi's Midnapore rally, PM visits hospital At least 20 people suffered injuries after a tent collapsed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rally in Midnapore, West Bengal on Monday. Novichok nerve agent was in 'perfume bottle': Victim's brother A British man exposed to Novichok, four months after the same nerve agent was used against a former Russian spy nearby, had found it in a perfume bottle, his brother said. I had to make my kidnapper fall in love with me, says abducted UK model Chloe Ayling Chloe Ayling, a 20-year-old-model from London has been in the news ever since she got kidnapped last year by a photographer who lured her into a modelling job in Milan. After being held captive in Italy for six days, the said photographer named Lukasz Herba dropped her at the British consulate in Milan. While this is a story that most of us who have been following her news are aware of, what was left out was her ordeal post-release from captivity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a Krishak Kalyan Samavesh (farmer's welfare rally) on Monday at Midnapore town in West Bengal.

The prime focus of the address will be on the Centre's recent decision to increase the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Kharif crops.

West Bengal Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Dilip Ghosh said, "The prime minister's rally in Midnapore proves that Bengal is one of their top priority states in the Lok Sabha poll."

The BJP has made steady inroads in various districts of West Bengal and has emerged as the main opposition party in the state after the recent panchayat elections and by-polls.

The Central Government on July 4 approved the proposal to hike MSP by 50 per cent for 14 Kharif crops for the year 2018-19.

The meeting chaired by Prime Minister Modi approved the proposal made by Union Minister Arun Jaitley in the Budget 2018 of hiking the support price by one-and-a-half times of the production cost for Kharif crops.

MSP is referred to a price at which the government buys crops from the farmers, to protect agriculture producers from fall in farm prices.

The BJP has made steady inroads in various districts of West Bengal and has emerged as the main opposition party in the state.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a Krishak Kalyan Samavesh (farmer's welfare rally) on Monday at Midnapore town in West Bengal. The prime focus of the address will be on the Centre's recent decision to increase the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Kharif crops. West Bengal Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Dilip Ghosh said, "The prime minister's rally in Midnapore proves that Bengal is one of their top priority states in the Lok Sabha poll." The BJP has made steady inroads in various districts of West Bengal and has emerged as the main opposition party in the state after the recent panchayat elections and by-polls. The Central Government on July 4 approved the proposal to hike MSP by 50 per cent for 14 Kharif crops for the year 2018-19. The meeting chaired by Prime Minister Modi approved the proposal made by Union Minister Arun Jaitley in the Budget 2018 of hiking the support price by one-and-a-half times of the production cost for Kharif crops. MSP is referred to a price at which the government buys crops from the farmers, to protect agriculture producers from fall in farm prices.

PM Modi to address farmers rally in West Bengal today

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad has questioned Congress president Rahul Gandhi's silence over his "Congress is a Muslim party" remark.

Speaking to ANI, the minister said that Rahul's statement on Muslims is purely inspired by vote bank politics.

"What Rahul Gandhi has said (Congress is a pro-Muslim party) fits the pattern when he had earlier said saffron or Hindu terror is more dangerous than LeT. It's purely inspired by vote bank politics. Therefore, we want Rahul Gandhi to answer," Prasad said.

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This is absolute lies&shameful spin by the newspaper. The BJP using it to further its own agenda, yet again, exposes their desperate tactics to mislead the nation. However this will not deter us to fight for India's founding principles& its democratic values. <a href="https://t.co/EN15vL7oNa">https://t.co/EN15vL7oNa</a>
— Priyanka Chaturvedi (@priyankac19) <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankac19/status/1017381412310315008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Congress chief has been facing flak for a statement "Yes, Congress is a Muslim party," which he reportedly made at a meeting with Muslim intellectuals and activists on July 11.

However, the Congress has said that Rahul had never made this statement and rubbished the report of an Urdu newspaper which quoted Rahul saying, "Yes, Congress is a Muslim party".

"This is absolute lies&shameful spin by the newspaper. The BJP using it to further its own agenda, yet again, exposes their desperate tactics to mislead the nation. However this will not deter us to fight for India's founding principles and its democratic values," Congress leader Priyanka Chaturvedi had tweeted. 
&nbsp;

The Congress has said that Rahul had never made this statement.

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad has questioned Congress president Rahul Gandhi's silence over his "Congress is a Muslim party" remark. Speaking to ANI, the minister said that Rahul's statement on Muslims is purely inspired by vote bank politics. "What Rahul Gandhi has said (Congress is a pro-Muslim party) fits the pattern when he had earlier said saffron or Hindu terror is more dangerous than LeT. It's purely inspired by vote bank politics. Therefore, we want Rahul Gandhi to answer," Prasad said. This is absolute lies&shameful spin by the newspaper. The BJP using it to further its own agenda, yet again, exposes their desperate tactics to mislead the nation. However this will not deter us to fight for India's founding principles& its democratic values. https://t.co/EN15vL7oNa — Priyanka Chaturvedi (@priyankac19) July 12, 2018 × The Congress chief has been facing flak for a statement "Yes, Congress is a Muslim party," which he reportedly made at a meeting with Muslim intellectuals and activists on July 11. However, the Congress has said that Rahul had never made this statement and rubbished the report of an Urdu newspaper which quoted Rahul saying, "Yes, Congress is a Muslim party". "This is absolute lies&shameful spin by the newspaper. The BJP using it to further its own agenda, yet again, exposes their desperate tactics to mislead the nation. However this will not deter us to fight for India's founding principles and its democratic values," Congress leader Priyanka Chaturvedi had tweeted.

RS Prasad questions Rahul's silence over 'Muslim party' remark

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar came down heavily on Congress President Rahul Gandhi over the 'Congress is a Muslim Party' remark.

Javadekar while addressing a press conference said that Rahul has exposed Congress party's real face.

The Congress chief has been facing flak for a statement "Yes, Congress is a Muslim party," which he reportedly made at a meeting with Muslim intellectuals and activists on July 11.

"Rahul Gandhi said Congress is a Muslim party. Now he is quiet about it. But he cannot deny it. There is proof," said Javadekar.

"His minority morcha president also said in Urdu daily Inqalab that Rahul Gandhi is right about this. The newspapers didn't publish anything wrong. There is proof," he added.

However, the Congress has said that Rahul had never made this statement and rubbished the report in the connection.

"This is absolute lies&shameful spin by the newspaper. The BJP using it to further its own agenda, yet again, exposes their desperate tactics to mislead the nation. However this will not deter us to fight for India's founding principles& its democratic values," Congress leader Priyanka Chaturvedi tweeted.

On Thursday, a report in an Urdu daily emerged on social media accusing the grand old party of minority appeasement ahead of the upcoming 2019 general elections. The report came just a day after Rahul met a few Muslim intellectuals.

During the meeting, Rahul Gandhi was advised to do a self-introspection of the Congress party. He was urged to think about how "Congress worked in the era of 1970s when it talked about inclusiveness and 'Sajha virasat'".

He was also urged to not talk about the Muslim community in particular and rather speak on issues like poverty and education on a whole.

Javadekar while addressing a press conference said that Rahul has exposed Congress party's real face

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar came down heavily on Congress President Rahul Gandhi over the 'Congress is a Muslim Party' remark. Javadekar while addressing a press conference said that Rahul has exposed Congress party's real face. The Congress chief has been facing flak for a statement "Yes, Congress is a Muslim party," which he reportedly made at a meeting with Muslim intellectuals and activists on July 11. "Rahul Gandhi said Congress is a Muslim party. Now he is quiet about it. But he cannot deny it. There is proof," said Javadekar. "His minority morcha president also said in Urdu daily Inqalab that Rahul Gandhi is right about this. The newspapers didn't publish anything wrong. There is proof," he added. However, the Congress has said that Rahul had never made this statement and rubbished the report in the connection. "This is absolute lies&shameful spin by the newspaper. The BJP using it to further its own agenda, yet again, exposes their desperate tactics to mislead the nation. However this will not deter us to fight for India's founding principles& its democratic values," Congress leader Priyanka Chaturvedi tweeted. On Thursday, a report in an Urdu daily emerged on social media accusing the grand old party of minority appeasement ahead of the upcoming 2019 general elections. The report came just a day after Rahul met a few Muslim intellectuals. During the meeting, Rahul Gandhi was advised to do a self-introspection of the Congress party. He was urged to think about how "Congress worked in the era of 1970s when it talked about inclusiveness and 'Sajha virasat'". He was also urged to not talk about the Muslim community in particular and rather speak on issues like poverty and education on a whole.

'Muslim party' row: Rahul has exposed Congress' real face, says Javadekar

In June 2018, UNHRC released a first ever report on Kashmir regarding alleged human rights violations on both sides of the Line of Control and recommended a Commission of Inquiry by the Human Rights Council. &nbsp;The report of UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra'ad al-Hussein was highly prejudiced, based on inadequate inputs and clearly exhibited the ignorance of facts. It looked like a summary of misinformation.&nbsp;

India junked the report, terming it as "fallacious and motivated". In a sharp rebuttal, MEA said that the "so-called" report reflects the "clear bias of an official who was acting without any mandate whatsoever and relied on unverified sources of information."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has voiced support for the UN human rights chief's call for an independent international investigation into the human rights situation in Kashmir. 
 
UNHRC struggling for credibility

UNHRC has&nbsp;often been criticised for favoritism, politicisation and irresponsible reporting. It is expected to be a neutral organisation, but in reality it is staffed with diplomats tasked to protect their own national interests, which makes it a political entity.

The fact that US has walked out of UNHRC, presumably due to anti-Israel/anti-West bias, is a jolt to the organisation. The UN Secretary General actually had no choice, but to back UNHRC, as it is still struggling for existence after the shocker from the US President and repeated criticism.

Why the report is biased

•The manner in which Jammu and Kashmir has been referred in the report violates India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The use of words like ‘Azad Kashmir’, ‘Indian Occupied Kashmir’ indicates lack of understanding of legal position of Jammu and Kashmir.

•India is not duty bound to explain its governance methodology and counter-terrorism strategy&nbsp;to UN. In absence of such information, their wild assumptions cannot be taken as truth. With no unconditional access to either side of Line of Control, the report appears to be a figment of imagination.

•The UNHRC Chief was not mandated to write this report. His justification of it being covered under "the general mandate of human rights instruments" does not give right to UN to encroach into issues of normal governance and strategy&nbsp;of securing Indian borders.

•Mr Zeid and his team’s understanding of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA)&nbsp;is inadequate.

•The intent of bringing out such report just before highly controversial elections in Pakistan, timed with one sided Pakistani act of granting provincial status to Pakistan Occupied Kashmir and Gilgit- Baltistan, indicates that the report is motivated, prejudiced, and part of some political game plan. The accusations in some media reports that a Toronto-based Pakistani Imam Zafar Bangash helped Mr Zeid in preparing this report, falls in line with the argument.&nbsp;

•The period covered in the report is from Burhan Wani’s death till June 2018, is a period when cross border terrorism had increased massively. This clearly indicates the intent to show India in poor light. Obviously the UN team never tried to reflect how much security forces helped people during the floods and continue to do so even now through various civic action projects.

Indian security forces exercise&nbsp;maximum restraint in carrying out counter terror operations. Its resilience and patience is unmatchable. The report on Kashmir exhibits an irresponsible act of presenting a sensational document, displaying basic lack of understanding of the situation on ground.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The report on Kashmir exhibits an irresponsible act of presenting a sensational document, displaying basic lack of understanding of the situation on ground.

In June 2018, UNHRC released a first ever report on Kashmir regarding alleged human rights violations on both sides of the Line of Control and recommended a Commission of Inquiry by the Human Rights Council. The report of UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra'ad al-Hussein was highly prejudiced, based on inadequate inputs and clearly exhibited the ignorance of facts. It looked like a summary of misinformation. India junked the report, terming it as "fallacious and motivated". In a sharp rebuttal, MEA said that the "so-called" report reflects the "clear bias of an official who was acting without any mandate whatsoever and relied on unverified sources of information." Meanwhile, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has voiced support for the UN human rights chief's call for an independent international investigation into the human rights situation in Kashmir. UNHRC struggling for credibility UNHRC has often been criticised for favoritism, politicisation and irresponsible reporting. It is expected to be a neutral organisation, but in reality it is staffed with diplomats tasked to protect their own national interests, which makes it a political entity. The fact that US has walked out of UNHRC, presumably due to anti-Israel/anti-West bias, is a jolt to the organisation. The UN Secretary General actually had no choice, but to back UNHRC, as it is still struggling for existence after the shocker from the US President and repeated criticism. Why the report is biased •The manner in which Jammu and Kashmir has been referred in the report violates India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The use of words like ‘Azad Kashmir’, ‘Indian Occupied Kashmir’ indicates lack of understanding of legal position of Jammu and Kashmir. •India is not duty bound to explain its governance methodology and counter-terrorism strategy to UN. In absence of such information, their wild assumptions cannot be taken as truth. With no unconditional access to either side of Line of Control, the report appears to be a figment of imagination. •The UNHRC Chief was not mandated to write this report. His justification of it being covered under "the general mandate of human rights instruments" does not give right to UN to encroach into issues of normal governance and strategy of securing Indian borders. •Mr Zeid and his team’s understanding of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) is inadequate. •The intent of bringing out such report just before highly controversial elections in Pakistan, timed with one sided Pakistani act of granting provincial status to Pakistan Occupied Kashmir and Gilgit- Baltistan, indicates that the report is motivated, prejudiced, and part of some political game plan. The accusations in some media reports that a Toronto-based Pakistani Imam Zafar Bangash helped Mr Zeid in preparing this report, falls in line with the argument. •The period covered in the report is from Burhan Wani’s death till June 2018, is a period when cross border terrorism had increased massively. This clearly indicates the intent to show India in poor light. Obviously the UN team never tried to reflect how much security forces helped people during the floods and continue to do so even now through various civic action projects. Indian security forces exercise maximum restraint in carrying out counter terror operations. Its resilience and patience is unmatchable. The report on Kashmir exhibits an irresponsible act of presenting a sensational document, displaying basic lack of understanding of the situation on ground. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: UNHRC report on Kashmir - wrong diagnosis, unwanted prescription

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor accused the Bharatiya Janata Party Yuva Morcha of vandalising his constituency office in Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram on Monday.&nbsp;

Tharoor, who is MP from Thiruvananthapuram, tweeted that the "Yuva Morcha" members asked him to go to Pakistan, and "drove away innocent citizens waiting with their petitions."

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1/2 Today <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVAMORCHABJP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YUVAMORCHABJP</a> vandals attacked my constituency office in Thiruvananthapuram. They poured black engine oil on signs, doors, walls & gate, drove away innocent citizens waiting with their petitions, put up offensive banners & shouted slogans asking me to go to Pakistan.
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/1018798063815544833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He also alleged that his office was damaged. Tar and engine oil were used to vandalise the premises, according to him.

Tharoor, however, was not present in the office when the incident took place.

The attack came after Tharoor's "Hindu-Pakistan" comment triggered a controversy. In his controversial statement, Tharoor had stated that if the BJP wins the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, it will create a condition leading to the formation of a 'Hindu Pakistan' nation.

He told the media, "People had come with their concerns but you scared them away from here. Is this what we want in our country? I am asking as a citizen, not as an MP. This is not the Hinduism that I know of."

The Congress leader again hit out at BJP for indulging in vandalism and wrote: “We have all been warned. The BJP’s answer to the simple question “have you given up the dream of a Hindu Rashtra?” is apparently vandalism & violence. That is the face they have shown in Thiruvananthapuram today. Most Hindus will say these Sanghi goondas do not represent us.”

The attack came after Tharoor's "Hindu-Pakistan" comment triggered a controversy

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor accused the Bharatiya Janata Party Yuva Morcha of vandalising his constituency office in Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram on Monday. Tharoor, who is MP from Thiruvananthapuram, tweeted that the "Yuva Morcha" members asked him to go to Pakistan, and "drove away innocent citizens waiting with their petitions." 1/2 Today @YUVAMORCHABJP vandals attacked my constituency office in Thiruvananthapuram. They poured black engine oil on signs, doors, walls & gate, drove away innocent citizens waiting with their petitions, put up offensive banners & shouted slogans asking me to go to Pakistan. — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) July 16, 2018 × He also alleged that his office was damaged. Tar and engine oil were used to vandalise the premises, according to him. Tharoor, however, was not present in the office when the incident took place. The attack came after Tharoor's "Hindu-Pakistan" comment triggered a controversy. In his controversial statement, Tharoor had stated that if the BJP wins the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, it will create a condition leading to the formation of a 'Hindu Pakistan' nation. He told the media, "People had come with their concerns but you scared them away from here. Is this what we want in our country? I am asking as a citizen, not as an MP. This is not the Hinduism that I know of." The Congress leader again hit out at BJP for indulging in vandalism and wrote: “We have all been warned. The BJP’s answer to the simple question “have you given up the dream of a Hindu Rashtra?” is apparently vandalism & violence. That is the face they have shown in Thiruvananthapuram today. Most Hindus will say these Sanghi goondas do not represent us.”

Tharoor says BJP workers vandalised his office in Kerala

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Tharoor says BJP workers vandalised his office in Kerala