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Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao accepted UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan's proposal to establish a UAE consulate office in Hyderabad in the near future.

In a meeting held between the two leaders on Thursday, the Chief Minister opined that the establishment of the consulate in Hyderabad would enhance the relationship between the state government and the UAE.

He also instructed the Chief Secretary to allocate the required land and infrastructure for the consulate.

During the meeting held at Pragathi Bhavan, Rao's official residence and principal workplace, the two leaders discussed developmental projects taking place in Telangana, industrial policy, development on social aspects, education, medicine and infrastructure.

The UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs further lauded the Chief Minister for the schemes and measures taken for the upliftment of the natives, as well as the progress made in the state in terms of growth rate and surplus power generation.

The Chief Minister also invited Sheikh Abdullah to visit the ongoing construction of the Kaleshwaram project.

MP Keshav Rao, Chief secretary SK Joshi, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister S. Narsing Rao and officials Arvind Kumar, Rama Krishna Rao, Jayesh Ranjan and AK Khan were also present in the meeting.

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Hyderabad: Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the United Arab Emirates met Telangana Chief Minister KC Rao, earlier today <a href="https://t.co/wtgi5kyUxZ">pic.twitter.com/wtgi5kyUxZ</a>
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In a meeting held between the two leaders on Thursday, the Chief Minister opined that the establishment of the consulate in Hyderabad would enhance the relationship between the state government and the UAE

Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao accepted UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan's proposal to establish a UAE consulate office in Hyderabad in the near future. In a meeting held between the two leaders on Thursday, the Chief Minister opined that the establishment of the consulate in Hyderabad would enhance the relationship between the state government and the UAE. He also instructed the Chief Secretary to allocate the required land and infrastructure for the consulate. During the meeting held at Pragathi Bhavan, Rao's official residence and principal workplace, the two leaders discussed developmental projects taking place in Telangana, industrial policy, development on social aspects, education, medicine and infrastructure. The UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs further lauded the Chief Minister for the schemes and measures taken for the upliftment of the natives, as well as the progress made in the state in terms of growth rate and surplus power generation. The Chief Minister also invited Sheikh Abdullah to visit the ongoing construction of the Kaleshwaram project. MP Keshav Rao, Chief secretary SK Joshi, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister S. Narsing Rao and officials Arvind Kumar, Rama Krishna Rao, Jayesh Ranjan and AK Khan were also present in the meeting. Hyderabad: Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the United Arab Emirates met Telangana Chief Minister KC Rao, earlier today pic.twitter.com/wtgi5kyUxZ — ANI (@ANI) June 28, 2018 ×

Hyderabad to get UAE consulate office

Delhi Police will produce <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/major-handa-exchanged-over-3000-calls-with-army-officers-wife--147051">Major Nikhil Handa</a> before the Patiala House Court at the end of his four-day remand on Friday.

On June 25, a Delhi Court had sent <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/after-murdering-shailja-major-handa-told-his-wife-a-dog-had-come-under-his-car-147068">Handa</a> to four-day police custody for <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-recover-knife-used-to-kill-shailza-dwivedi-147730">allegedly killing the wife of his fellow officer, Shailja Dwivedi</a>.

Handa was arrested Sunday after Shailja was found dead in Delhi's Brar Square area.

He had made fake profiles on social media websites to befriend Shailja and murdered her after she refused to marry him.

As per sources, the deceased's body was found with her throat slit. The body had also been allegedly run over by a car several times.

The police also seized the vehicle in which the victim was reportedly last seen travelling in.

On June 25, a Delhi Court had sent Handa to four-day police custody for allegedly killing the wife of his fellow officer, Shailja Dwivedi

Delhi Police will produce Major Nikhil Handa before the Patiala House Court at the end of his four-day remand on Friday. On June 25, a Delhi Court had sent Handa to four-day police custody for allegedly killing the wife of his fellow officer, Shailja Dwivedi. Handa was arrested Sunday after Shailja was found dead in Delhi's Brar Square area. He had made fake profiles on social media websites to befriend Shailja and murdered her after she refused to marry him. As per sources, the deceased's body was found with her throat slit. The body had also been allegedly run over by a car several times. The police also seized the vehicle in which the victim was reportedly last seen travelling in.

Shailja murder case: Major Handa to be produced before Delhi Court

Ever since the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes reinstated actor Dileep into the film body, the actor and AMMA have been receiving severe criticism from actors and politicians alike. Dileep, who is the prime accused in the abduction and molestation case of a Malayalam actress, was earlier suspended from the film body when he was arrested. Out on bail, Dileep was taken back to the organisation which prompted three of the leading actresses of Malayalam film industry to resign from AMMA. 
 
Now, Dileep on Thursday said he will not return to the association till he gets cleared in the case of abducting and sexually assaulting an actress.

In a letter to Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA) General Secretary Edavela Babu, Dileep, who is currently out on bail after being in jail for 85 days, said that he has learned from the media that the AMMA general body meeting held on Sunday stated that the Executive Committee that decided to suspend him was not done as per the by-laws and would not stand.

"I am happy that such a decision has been taken, but now that I am facing a case in which I have done nothing wrong, I do not wish to be active in any body till I come clean. I am deeply pained in hearing various criticism against AMMA in my name. I wish the newly elected committee of AMMA all the best," said Dileep in the letter, a copy of which has been posted in the public domain.

Dileep`s action came after top actresses Revathy Asha Kelunni, Padmapriya Janakiraman and A. Parvathy wrote to Edavela Babu and demanded an emergency executive meeting to be called on July 13 or 14 to discuss his reinstatement.

The open letter was also posted on the Facebook page of the newly-formed Women in Cinema Collective (WCC).

As women members of AMMA, the three actresses expressed concern over its Sunday decision to bring back an expelled member who was involved in an alleged assault of another women member from the same organisation.

"At this meeting, a very crucial decision was taken... Considering the gravity of the circumstances and the matter being sub judice, it is shocking that such an important matter was decided without listing it on the agenda or being discussed among all members prior to the meeting.

"AMMA had publicly pledged full support to the member who survived the assault but the decision taken for reinstating the expelled member who is now a chargesheeted suspect goes against the promise made to the survivor," they said.

As a result, on Wednesday, "the survivor resigned and in solidarity with her three other women members have also resigned", the actresses said.

"This does not reflect well on AMMA," it said.

Earlier, the Kerala State Women`s Commission slammed superstar Mohanlal, who heads AMMA, over the reinstatement of Dileep who is an accused in the February 2017 actress kidnapping case.

This was the first decision taken by the new committee under Mohanlal.

Kerala Fisheries Minister J. Mercykutty on Thursday expressed surprise in the manner in which AMMA revoked Dileep`s suspension.

"It should not be forgotten that actors are icons and they should be perfect role models, but this decision that they took is baffling," she said.

All eyes are now on superstar Mammootty, who had announced the decision to remove Dileep from AMMA. However, he is not an office-bearer any more.

The actor was earlier reinstated into the film body

Ever since the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes reinstated actor Dileep into the film body, the actor and AMMA have been receiving severe criticism from actors and politicians alike. Dileep, who is the prime accused in the abduction and molestation case of a Malayalam actress, was earlier suspended from the film body when he was arrested. Out on bail, Dileep was taken back to the organisation which prompted three of the leading actresses of Malayalam film industry to resign from AMMA. Now, Dileep on Thursday said he will not return to the association till he gets cleared in the case of abducting and sexually assaulting an actress. In a letter to Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA) General Secretary Edavela Babu, Dileep, who is currently out on bail after being in jail for 85 days, said that he has learned from the media that the AMMA general body meeting held on Sunday stated that the Executive Committee that decided to suspend him was not done as per the by-laws and would not stand. "I am happy that such a decision has been taken, but now that I am facing a case in which I have done nothing wrong, I do not wish to be active in any body till I come clean. I am deeply pained in hearing various criticism against AMMA in my name. I wish the newly elected committee of AMMA all the best," said Dileep in the letter, a copy of which has been posted in the public domain. Dileep`s action came after top actresses Revathy Asha Kelunni, Padmapriya Janakiraman and A. Parvathy wrote to Edavela Babu and demanded an emergency executive meeting to be called on July 13 or 14 to discuss his reinstatement. The open letter was also posted on the Facebook page of the newly-formed Women in Cinema Collective (WCC). As women members of AMMA, the three actresses expressed concern over its Sunday decision to bring back an expelled member who was involved in an alleged assault of another women member from the same organisation. "At this meeting, a very crucial decision was taken... Considering the gravity of the circumstances and the matter being sub judice, it is shocking that such an important matter was decided without listing it on the agenda or being discussed among all members prior to the meeting. "AMMA had publicly pledged full support to the member who survived the assault but the decision taken for reinstating the expelled member who is now a chargesheeted suspect goes against the promise made to the survivor," they said. As a result, on Wednesday, "the survivor resigned and in solidarity with her three other women members have also resigned", the actresses said. "This does not reflect well on AMMA," it said. Earlier, the Kerala State Women`s Commission slammed superstar Mohanlal, who heads AMMA, over the reinstatement of Dileep who is an accused in the February 2017 actress kidnapping case. This was the first decision taken by the new committee under Mohanlal. Kerala Fisheries Minister J. Mercykutty on Thursday expressed surprise in the manner in which AMMA revoked Dileep`s suspension. "It should not be forgotten that actors are icons and they should be perfect role models, but this decision that they took is baffling," she said. All eyes are now on superstar Mammootty, who had announced the decision to remove Dileep from AMMA. However, he is not an office-bearer any more.

Won't return to AMMA till name gets cleared, says Dileep after top Malayalam actresses complain

Busy with the shoot of Rohit Shetty’s <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-simmba-ranveer-singh-sara-ali-khans-first-look-revealed-as-they-start-shooting--142671"><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-simmba-ranveer-singh-sara-ali-khans-first-look-revealed-as-they-start-shooting--142671">Simmba</a></a>, Ranveer Singh has reportedly been signed by his Band Baaja Baaraaat director Maneesh Sharma for a musical.&nbsp;

Maneesh is responsible for giving Ranveer his break in Bollywood and also gave him the next film that established him as a hero to watch out for, Ladies vs Ricky Bahl. <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-deepika-padukone-ranveer-singh-to-tie-the-knot-on-this-date--146082">Also read:&nbsp;Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh to tie the knot on this date?</a>

In the film, Ranveer will be seen in a love story musical -- a first for the star, according to a report published in a daily. A source quoted in the report said, "This is Ranveer and Maneesh’s third film together, after 'Band Baaja Baaraat' and 'Ladies vs Ricky Bahl'. It’s a love story, but also a musical drama. The music will play a pivotal part in the narrative like it does in Hollywood musicals such as 'La La Land'."

The film is expected to go on floors in June 2019.&nbsp;

The actor is currently in Hyderabad shooting for Simmba as he posted a video on Instagram, giving us a preview of the mega song he is shooting for with director Rohit Shetty and choreographer Ganesh Acharya. He stars in the film with newbie Sara Ali Khan.&nbsp;

He will also be seen in <a href="http://wionews.com/photos/'gully-boy'-wrap-up-party-was-held-in-mumbai-at-esco-bar-132460">Gully Boy</a> with Alia Bhatt as some photos of the two came out on social media. The film is directed by Zoya Akhtar and marks the first onscreen collaboration between Ranveer and Alia. Ranveer plays the role of a street rapper. It is slated to release on February 14, 2019.

Ranveer, meanwhile, wowed the audience with his performance in <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-deepika-padukone-just-made-it-clear-whom-ranveer-singh-belongs-to-145154"><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-deepika-padukone-just-made-it-clear-whom-ranveer-singh-belongs-to-145154">Padmaavat</a></a> as Alauddin Khilji. He starred with Deepika Padukone and Shahid Kapoor in the film.&nbsp;

The movie is expected to go on floors in June 2019.

Busy with the shoot of Rohit Shetty’s Simmba, Ranveer Singh has reportedly been signed by his Band Baaja Baaraaat director Maneesh Sharma for a musical. Maneesh is responsible for giving Ranveer his break in Bollywood and also gave him the next film that established him as a hero to watch out for, Ladies vs Ricky Bahl. Also read: Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh to tie the knot on this date? In the film, Ranveer will be seen in a love story musical -- a first for the star, according to a report published in a daily. A source quoted in the report said, "This is Ranveer and Maneesh’s third film together, after 'Band Baaja Baaraat' and 'Ladies vs Ricky Bahl'. It’s a love story, but also a musical drama. The music will play a pivotal part in the narrative like it does in Hollywood musicals such as 'La La Land'." The film is expected to go on floors in June 2019. The actor is currently in Hyderabad shooting for Simmba as he posted a video on Instagram, giving us a preview of the mega song he is shooting for with director Rohit Shetty and choreographer Ganesh Acharya. He stars in the film with newbie Sara Ali Khan. He will also be seen in Gully Boy with Alia Bhatt as some photos of the two came out on social media. The film is directed by Zoya Akhtar and marks the first onscreen collaboration between Ranveer and Alia. Ranveer plays the role of a street rapper. It is slated to release on February 14, 2019. Ranveer, meanwhile, wowed the audience with his performance in Padmaavat as Alauddin Khilji. He starred with Deepika Padukone and Shahid Kapoor in the film.

Ranveer Singh to star in Maneesh Sharma's musical drama?

Sitaram Yechury is General Secretary of CPI(M), the main constituent of the Left Front. The Left played a crucial role in the first part of the UPA government and was instrumental in formation of Manmohan Singh-led government.

Yechury spoke to WION's Kartikeya Sharma on a number of issues. He said that the idea of grand alliance before next year's general elections is not feasible and better alternative will emerge once results are out. He also spoke on the issue of foreign policy and West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Read the full interview below:

WION: Is the Left in same position to play the role which it did during formation of Manmohan Singh-led government?

Sitaram Yechury: In terms of number we are not in the same position as what we were during 2004 but irrespective of the strength, the Left has a critical role to play. We are also the voice of people and it cannot be ignored.

WION: Is grand alliance a feasible idea keeping in mind that multiple regional parties have diverse ideological ecosystem?

Sitaram Yechury: We have to understand the nature and character of India as a country. Indian politics has always been dominated by different parties in different regions. To conceive unity of all the opposition forces at the national level is neither feasible nor advisable. All the major Fronts were formed post elections - whether it was the case of VP Singh's government or United Front in 1996 or even UPA of 2004. Even 1977 went the same route and the question as to who would lead the government was settled after elections.

In current circumstances we will witness unity of parties on regional basis which would be done state wise. The example in case is Uttar Pradesh where SP-BSP came together. Anti-BJP coalitions will be formed at the state level which will converge post elections.

WION: So, what you are saying is that pre-poll grand alliance is not a feasible idea?

Sitaram Yechury: Grand alliance is not feasible before the elections. It all depends on what happens after polls. For example, the Left has a trademark of outside support. So, you will have various categories. Those joining the government and those supporting it from outside will happen at that point of time.

WION: Can we say that there exists ideological compatibility between Left and the Congress?

Sitaram Yechury: It cannot be said as our core ideology is different. On the other hand, Congress and BJP do share common interests when it comes to reforms. But today we need to fight against the communal forces, it is essential that the current government is ousted. To this limited objective, there will be cooperation with all the political forces.

WION: Does it include leaders like Mamata Banerjee and Chandra Shekhar Rao?

Sitaram Yechury: No. In West Bengal, we have a slogan, "Oust Modi to save India and oust Mamata to save Bengal." Both Mamata and BJP are playing politics in tandem.

WION: Why do you say that?

Sitaram Yechury: Both are going on the path of competitive communalism. Have you ever seen observance of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee's death anniversary before this? Never. Why is it happening today? They want to control communal Hindutva vote bank. At the same Mamata Banerjee also panders to minority fundamentalism. More the minority fundamentalists are pampered, more Hindu communalisation takes place. They feed on each other. BJP and the Trinamool Congress feed on each other. It is essential that both are defeated.

WION: There can be no cooperation with the Trinamool Congress?

Sitaram Yechury: Trinamool Congress is a big no. Right now there can be no cooperation. Don't want to comment on post-poll scenario, we will see after elections.

WION: Are we going to witness broad alliances? One led by Left and Congress and another by TMC?

Sitaram Yechury: The Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) has nothing in West Bengal. The Telugu Desam Party and Trinamool Congress or the Telangana Rashtra Samiti are limited to their own states. Eventually, all cooperation will take place at the state level between major national forces.

WION: Has anti-Congress politics given way to anti-BJP politics because of the reduced electoral strength of the former?

Sitaram Yechury: No, not because of the reduced electoral strength. The BJP has actually replaced the Congress as the representatives of the ruling class of country. It is for this reason that pursuit of economic reforms is more aggressive under Modi than Manmohan Singh. India today has moved much closer to United States than ever.

WION: The BJP reinvented itself post-2014. What is Left doing under you to reinvent itself?

Sitaram Yechury: We are working on our organisation but in the meanwhile we will have to play the role of a catalyst to bring anti-BJP forces together on a rational platform. There we have a role to play.

WION: Black money deposits by Indians in Swiss banks have increased. Your comments?

Sitaram Yechury: It shows loot of public money which is being deposited in Swiss banks. Demonetisation has failed. It legitmised black money. RBI says that today more cash is flowing in the economy. The net result is that we have more money in the banking system than what existed before demonetisation. It has also led to increased capital outflow. It is also reflecting in sudden fall in the value of the rupee. The main reason of the depreciation of the rupee is the capital outflow which is being patronized by the government.

WION: How do you evaluate Modi's neighbourhood policy?

Sitaram Yechury: It has been a disaster. We alienated all of them. By trying to become a junior partner of the US, we sent signals that we want to curtail China. Why are we joining Malabar exercise with USA and Japan? What are the signals we are trying to give? Both in Maldives and Nepal, anti-India sentiments exist today.

WION: Course correction did take place... PM met Chinese premier in Wuhan?

Sitaram Yechury: We are part of the SCO where we will have joint exercise with Pakistan. The BJP has a strong position against Pakistan vis-a-vis Kashmir issue but they will hold joint exercise with Pakistan as being signatory to the SCO. Contradiction exists in our foreign policy. It was not course correction but pure vacillation. It increases the degree of uncertainty. What has happened to SAARC? Our relations with our own neighbours has deteriorated.

WION: What is your opinion on the current discourse where nationalism has become a stick to beat political opponents?

Sitaram Yechury: It has always been there, whether it's Hitler or Mussolini. It is exactly what is happening in India today where Hindutva nationalism is being forced. It has to be Indian nationalism.

WION: Are you saying that it is different from cultural nationalism?

Sitaram Yechury: There is nothing called cultural nationalism. You only have nationalism in the nation's interest. Nation has been defined by our Constitution. Nationalism is upholding of the provisions of the Constitution. What is being done today in the name of Hindutva nationalism is negation of the Constitution.

WION: Why is there no conversation between PM and opposition?

Sitaram Yechury: It is very sad. This is where degree of hostility should be understood. The BJP is implementing undeclared institutionalised Emergency. They have undermined every parliamentary institution including Election Commission and judiciary. I would also say that even research bodies have been affected. I have never seen such a House. There is no cordiality in the House.

WION: Historically, Third Front or big alliances either had a face or many big faces. This time there is none?

Sitaram Yechury: No one believed in 2004 that Manmohan Singh would become the Prime Minister. No one thought about Morarji Desi or Deve Gowda. This is the parliamentary democracy.

WION: Is Rahul Gandhi an acceptable face?

Sitaram Yechury: These issues are not relevant now. These issues will become relevant post elections. This will have to be evaluated after the elections. Back then, when asked about Manmohan Singh, I had said that Finance Minister of Congress would behave differently as Prime Minister of the coalition government as it would follow Common Minimum Programme (CMP). What India requires is policies and not leaders. We need alternative policies.

WION: In retrospection, was it correct on part of CPI(M) to leave UPA?

Sitaram Yechury: We failed to convey the message and could not make it into a people's issue which cost us electorally. We also permitted cementing of our political opponents in West Bengal. The Trinamool Congress and Congress came together. These issues have been noted.

WION: Your alliance with Congress in assembly elections did not work...

Sitaram Yechury: It was a mere understanding. We did not come together as alliance partners. We could not create the impression of a proper alternative in people's mind.

WION: Will you come together this time if there is a proposal from the Congress?

Sitaram Yechury: Yes, we will. This time we decided that our primary objective is to defeat this government in West Bengal and to this objective we will work.

WION: Will Sitaram Yechury play the role of Har Kishan Surjit in 2019?

Sitaram Yechury: Please don't make these comparisons, our objective is to oust the BJP from power.

WION: In case the opposition is able to form the government in 2019, will Left be part of it with ministers?

Sitaram Yechury: Our party programme is clear that if any such possibility emerges then Central Committee will make the final call. It will also depend on what is the proposition and what is the CMP. That is why I said that our trademark or intellectual property right has been outside support.

WION: Can it be changed?

Sitaram Yechury: Our party programme permits, but this has been our historical trademark.

Yechury also spoke on the issue of foreign policy and West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Sitaram Yechury is General Secretary of CPI(M), the main constituent of the Left Front. The Left played a crucial role in the first part of the UPA government and was instrumental in formation of Manmohan Singh-led government. Yechury spoke to WION's Kartikeya Sharma on a number of issues. He said that the idea of grand alliance before next year's general elections is not feasible and better alternative will emerge once results are out. He also spoke on the issue of foreign policy and West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Read the full interview below: WION: Is the Left in same position to play the role which it did during formation of Manmohan Singh-led government? Sitaram Yechury: In terms of number we are not in the same position as what we were during 2004 but irrespective of the strength, the Left has a critical role to play. We are also the voice of people and it cannot be ignored. WION: Is grand alliance a feasible idea keeping in mind that multiple regional parties have diverse ideological ecosystem? Sitaram Yechury: We have to understand the nature and character of India as a country. Indian politics has always been dominated by different parties in different regions. To conceive unity of all the opposition forces at the national level is neither feasible nor advisable. All the major Fronts were formed post elections - whether it was the case of VP Singh's government or United Front in 1996 or even UPA of 2004. Even 1977 went the same route and the question as to who would lead the government was settled after elections. In current circumstances we will witness unity of parties on regional basis which would be done state wise. The example in case is Uttar Pradesh where SP-BSP came together. Anti-BJP coalitions will be formed at the state level which will converge post elections. WION: So, what you are saying is that pre-poll grand alliance is not a feasible idea? Sitaram Yechury: Grand alliance is not feasible before the elections. It all depends on what happens after polls. For example, the Left has a trademark of outside support. So, you will have various categories. Those joining the government and those supporting it from outside will happen at that point of time. WION: Can we say that there exists ideological compatibility between Left and the Congress? Sitaram Yechury: It cannot be said as our core ideology is different. On the other hand, Congress and BJP do share common interests when it comes to reforms. But today we need to fight against the communal forces, it is essential that the current government is ousted. To this limited objective, there will be cooperation with all the political forces. WION: Does it include leaders like Mamata Banerjee and Chandra Shekhar Rao? Sitaram Yechury: No. In West Bengal, we have a slogan, "Oust Modi to save India and oust Mamata to save Bengal." Both Mamata and BJP are playing politics in tandem. WION: Why do you say that? Sitaram Yechury: Both are going on the path of competitive communalism. Have you ever seen observance of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee's death anniversary before this? Never. Why is it happening today? They want to control communal Hindutva vote bank. At the same Mamata Banerjee also panders to minority fundamentalism. More the minority fundamentalists are pampered, more Hindu communalisation takes place. They feed on each other. BJP and the Trinamool Congress feed on each other. It is essential that both are defeated. WION: There can be no cooperation with the Trinamool Congress? Sitaram Yechury: Trinamool Congress is a big no. Right now there can be no cooperation. Don't want to comment on post-poll scenario, we will see after elections. WION: Are we going to witness broad alliances? One led by Left and Congress and another by TMC? Sitaram Yechury: The Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) has nothing in West Bengal. The Telugu Desam Party and Trinamool Congress or the Telangana Rashtra Samiti are limited to their own states. Eventually, all cooperation will take place at the state level between major national forces. WION: Has anti-Congress politics given way to anti-BJP politics because of the reduced electoral strength of the former? Sitaram Yechury: No, not because of the reduced electoral strength. The BJP has actually replaced the Congress as the representatives of the ruling class of country. It is for this reason that pursuit of economic reforms is more aggressive under Modi than Manmohan Singh. India today has moved much closer to United States than ever. WION: The BJP reinvented itself post-2014. What is Left doing under you to reinvent itself? Sitaram Yechury: We are working on our organisation but in the meanwhile we will have to play the role of a catalyst to bring anti-BJP forces together on a rational platform. There we have a role to play. WION: Black money deposits by Indians in Swiss banks have increased. Your comments? Sitaram Yechury: It shows loot of public money which is being deposited in Swiss banks. Demonetisation has failed. It legitmised black money. RBI says that today more cash is flowing in the economy. The net result is that we have more money in the banking system than what existed before demonetisation. It has also led to increased capital outflow. It is also reflecting in sudden fall in the value of the rupee. The main reason of the depreciation of the rupee is the capital outflow which is being patronized by the government. WION: How do you evaluate Modi's neighbourhood policy? Sitaram Yechury: It has been a disaster. We alienated all of them. By trying to become a junior partner of the US, we sent signals that we want to curtail China. Why are we joining Malabar exercise with USA and Japan? What are the signals we are trying to give? Both in Maldives and Nepal, anti-India sentiments exist today. WION: Course correction did take place... PM met Chinese premier in Wuhan? Sitaram Yechury: We are part of the SCO where we will have joint exercise with Pakistan. The BJP has a strong position against Pakistan vis-a-vis Kashmir issue but they will hold joint exercise with Pakistan as being signatory to the SCO. Contradiction exists in our foreign policy. It was not course correction but pure vacillation. It increases the degree of uncertainty. What has happened to SAARC? Our relations with our own neighbours has deteriorated. WION: What is your opinion on the current discourse where nationalism has become a stick to beat political opponents? Sitaram Yechury: It has always been there, whether it's Hitler or Mussolini. It is exactly what is happening in India today where Hindutva nationalism is being forced. It has to be Indian nationalism. WION: Are you saying that it is different from cultural nationalism? Sitaram Yechury: There is nothing called cultural nationalism. You only have nationalism in the nation's interest. Nation has been defined by our Constitution. Nationalism is upholding of the provisions of the Constitution. What is being done today in the name of Hindutva nationalism is negation of the Constitution. WION: Why is there no conversation between PM and opposition? Sitaram Yechury: It is very sad. This is where degree of hostility should be understood. The BJP is implementing undeclared institutionalised Emergency. They have undermined every parliamentary institution including Election Commission and judiciary. I would also say that even research bodies have been affected. I have never seen such a House. There is no cordiality in the House. WION: Historically, Third Front or big alliances either had a face or many big faces. This time there is none? Sitaram Yechury: No one believed in 2004 that Manmohan Singh would become the Prime Minister. No one thought about Morarji Desi or Deve Gowda. This is the parliamentary democracy. WION: Is Rahul Gandhi an acceptable face? Sitaram Yechury: These issues are not relevant now. These issues will become relevant post elections. This will have to be evaluated after the elections. Back then, when asked about Manmohan Singh, I had said that Finance Minister of Congress would behave differently as Prime Minister of the coalition government as it would follow Common Minimum Programme (CMP). What India requires is policies and not leaders. We need alternative policies. WION: In retrospection, was it correct on part of CPI(M) to leave UPA? Sitaram Yechury: We failed to convey the message and could not make it into a people's issue which cost us electorally. We also permitted cementing of our political opponents in West Bengal. The Trinamool Congress and Congress came together. These issues have been noted. WION: Your alliance with Congress in assembly elections did not work... Sitaram Yechury: It was a mere understanding. We did not come together as alliance partners. We could not create the impression of a proper alternative in people's mind. WION: Will you come together this time if there is a proposal from the Congress? Sitaram Yechury: Yes, we will. This time we decided that our primary objective is to defeat this government in West Bengal and to this objective we will work. WION: Will Sitaram Yechury play the role of Har Kishan Surjit in 2019? Sitaram Yechury: Please don't make these comparisons, our objective is to oust the BJP from power. WION: In case the opposition is able to form the government in 2019, will Left be part of it with ministers? Sitaram Yechury: Our party programme is clear that if any such possibility emerges then Central Committee will make the final call. It will also depend on what is the proposition and what is the CMP. That is why I said that our trademark or intellectual property right has been outside support. WION: Can it be changed? Sitaram Yechury: Our party programme permits, but this has been our historical trademark.

Mamata panders to minority fundamentalists, grand alliance not feasible before polls: Sitaram Yechury

The Chinese military on Thursday hailed the joint yoga session of its troops with their Indian counterparts on the International Day of Yoga (IDY) as a "special event" in border cooperation between the two neighbours.

The Indian Army and the Chinese People's Liberation Army had celebrated the fourth IYD amid sub-zero temperature in eastern Ladakh on June 21. The event was organised at an altitude of 16,942 ft at Daulat Beg Oldie-Tien Wein Dien meeting point across the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

"Speaking of the border cooperation, I want to mention special event between the two defence forces," Chinese Defence spokesman Colonel Wu Qian said in his first comment on the joint yoga session.

"On June 21, soldiers from both sides of the borders had a special meeting and practiced yoga together. Because of the June 21 International Yoga Day," he said.

Colonel Wu was responding to a question on the improvement of military relations between the two countries since the Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in April.

He said that during the session, the Chinese soldiers had also demonstrated their martial arts skills to the Indian soldiers.

"I fully expect more extensive friendly competition between the two sides to build mutual trust so that we can maintain stability along the borders and to fully implement the agreement reached by the national leaders of both the countries," he said.

During the yoga session, a talk was also delivered on the importance of yoga for health, well-being and inner balance at high altitude.

"Apart from giving impetus to physical fitness, the event was aimed at further cementing the bonds of friendship and mutual trust between both the nations following the motto of the fourth International Yoga Day," an Indian defence spokesman had said.

On June 21, Indian envoy to China Gautam Bambawale along with other diplomats, staff of the Embassy, yoga teachers and students of a yoga centre had participated in a colourful yoga event in Beijing.

The day was celebrated in 25 to 30 cities in different parts of China with larger turnouts, indicating the increasing popularity of yoga in China.

The Indian Army and the Chinese People's Liberation Army had celebrated the fourth IYD amid sub-zero temperature in eastern Ladakh on June 21. The event was organised at an altitude of 16,942 ft at Daulat Beg Oldie-Tien Wein Dien meeting point across the Line of Actual Control (LAC)

The Chinese military on Thursday hailed the joint yoga session of its troops with their Indian counterparts on the International Day of Yoga (IDY) as a "special event" in border cooperation between the two neighbours. The Indian Army and the Chinese People's Liberation Army had celebrated the fourth IYD amid sub-zero temperature in eastern Ladakh on June 21. The event was organised at an altitude of 16,942 ft at Daulat Beg Oldie-Tien Wein Dien meeting point across the Line of Actual Control (LAC). "Speaking of the border cooperation, I want to mention special event between the two defence forces," Chinese Defence spokesman Colonel Wu Qian said in his first comment on the joint yoga session. "On June 21, soldiers from both sides of the borders had a special meeting and practiced yoga together. Because of the June 21 International Yoga Day," he said. Colonel Wu was responding to a question on the improvement of military relations between the two countries since the Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in April. He said that during the session, the Chinese soldiers had also demonstrated their martial arts skills to the Indian soldiers. "I fully expect more extensive friendly competition between the two sides to build mutual trust so that we can maintain stability along the borders and to fully implement the agreement reached by the national leaders of both the countries," he said. During the yoga session, a talk was also delivered on the importance of yoga for health, well-being and inner balance at high altitude. "Apart from giving impetus to physical fitness, the event was aimed at further cementing the bonds of friendship and mutual trust between both the nations following the motto of the fourth International Yoga Day," an Indian defence spokesman had said. On June 21, Indian envoy to China Gautam Bambawale along with other diplomats, staff of the Embassy, yoga teachers and students of a yoga centre had participated in a colourful yoga event in Beijing. The day was celebrated in 25 to 30 cities in different parts of China with larger turnouts, indicating the increasing popularity of yoga in China.

China's PLA lauds joint yoga session with Indian troops as 'special event'

Delhi Metro services may be severely affected on Saturday after talks between DMRC and the non-executive staff fail on Friday afternoon. &nbsp;

As many as 9,000 employees of Delhi Metro are likely to go on strike from midnight, protesting over various issues including salary hike.&nbsp;

According to the news report, talks between the DMRC (Delhi Metro Rail Corporation) management and the staff have failed and the non-executive staff will be on strike from midnight.

One of the main reasons for the non-executive employees to protest is salary hike. Apart from this, there are also other reasons like fixed guidelines for sacking an employee and right to form a union. According to the Metro employees, the DMRC management has not kept the promises, which were made last year.

"Our first demand is that that the DMRC Staff Council be changed to a DMRC employees union as the council is not a constitutional body and so, it does not have any teeth," &nbsp;DMRC Staff Council secretary Ravi Bhardwaj said.

"Other demands include implementation of our Industrial Dearness Allowance (IDA) as per the 3rd pay revision scale. If our demands are not met by June 29, we will go on complete hunger strike and work in that condition, and drivers will drive trains in that condition. And, if anything happens to our members or to commuters then the DMRC shall be responsible for it," &nbsp;DMRC Staff Council secretary added.

&nbsp;

<img alt="Metro.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1280" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/Metro.jpg" width="842" />

Out of the 12,000 Delhi Metro employees, non-executive staffers account for about 9,000. They may go on strike tomorrow

Delhi Metro services may be severely affected on Saturday after talks between DMRC and the non-executive staff fail on Friday afternoon. As many as 9,000 employees of Delhi Metro are likely to go on strike from midnight, protesting over various issues including salary hike. According to the news report, talks between the DMRC (Delhi Metro Rail Corporation) management and the staff have failed and the non-executive staff will be on strike from midnight. One of the main reasons for the non-executive employees to protest is salary hike. Apart from this, there are also other reasons like fixed guidelines for sacking an employee and right to form a union. According to the Metro employees, the DMRC management has not kept the promises, which were made last year. "Our first demand is that that the DMRC Staff Council be changed to a DMRC employees union as the council is not a constitutional body and so, it does not have any teeth," DMRC Staff Council secretary Ravi Bhardwaj said. "Other demands include implementation of our Industrial Dearness Allowance (IDA) as per the 3rd pay revision scale. If our demands are not met by June 29, we will go on complete hunger strike and work in that condition, and drivers will drive trains in that condition. And, if anything happens to our members or to commuters then the DMRC shall be responsible for it," DMRC Staff Council secretary added.

Talks between DMRC, staff fail; Delhi Metro services to be hit from June 30

A neighbour of Pradeep Singh Rajput, one of the pilots killed in a plane crash in Mumbai, described him as a friendly person who, during one of their encounters, had narrated how he survived a crash earlier in 2007.

Pradeep lived in Gold Croft Society in Dwarka's Sector 11 with his wife and a son, who was in the merchant navy.&nbsp

His neighbour, Anil Rajput said that Pradeep had been staying in the society for past one year with his family, and they had just recently shifted to the fourth floor of the same building.&nbsp

Anil remembered Pradeep as a friendly neighbour whom he occasionally ran into in the lift. Since both of them belonged to the aviation industry, they had a number of interesting things to talk about.&nbsp

His neighbour said Pradeep was quite experienced. He was a former pilot with the Indian Air Force who switched to commercial flying later. He used to fly only VIP chartered flights, he added.

Anil said Pradeep was quite tall, smart and had a lively personality.

"I remember in one of our conversations, Pradeep shared with me that he had survived a plane crash in Rajasthan in 2007, when he was the co-pilot of the flight. Though he sustained injuries, all the occupants on board were evacuated safely.

Despite the accident, he returned to flying after recuperating," he said.&nbsp

The victim was a native of Jalandhar in Punjab and was residing in Delhi for the last 15-20 years, he said.

Pradeep Singh Rajput and four others were killed when a chartered plane crashed into an under-construction building in Mumbai's Ghatkopar yesterday.

As soon as the family got to know about the incident, his wife and son along with a few relatives left for Mumbai last evening.

Pradeep lived in Gold Croft Society in Dwarka's Sector 11 with his wife and a son, who was in the merchant navy

A neighbour of Pradeep Singh Rajput, one of the pilots killed in a plane crash in Mumbai, described him as a friendly person who, during one of their encounters, had narrated how he survived a crash earlier in 2007. Pradeep lived in Gold Croft Society in Dwarka's Sector 11 with his wife and a son, who was in the merchant navy. His neighbour, Anil Rajput said that Pradeep had been staying in the society for past one year with his family, and they had just recently shifted to the fourth floor of the same building. Anil remembered Pradeep as a friendly neighbour whom he occasionally ran into in the lift. Since both of them belonged to the aviation industry, they had a number of interesting things to talk about. His neighbour said Pradeep was quite experienced. He was a former pilot with the Indian Air Force who switched to commercial flying later. He used to fly only VIP chartered flights, he added. Anil said Pradeep was quite tall, smart and had a lively personality. "I remember in one of our conversations, Pradeep shared with me that he had survived a plane crash in Rajasthan in 2007, when he was the co-pilot of the flight. Though he sustained injuries, all the occupants on board were evacuated safely. Despite the accident, he returned to flying after recuperating," he said. The victim was a native of Jalandhar in Punjab and was residing in Delhi for the last 15-20 years, he said. Pradeep Singh Rajput and four others were killed when a chartered plane crashed into an under-construction building in Mumbai's Ghatkopar yesterday. As soon as the family got to know about the incident, his wife and son along with a few relatives left for Mumbai last evening.

Pradeep Rajput had survived a plane crash in 2007, claims neighbour

Soldiers of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) stationed in Southwest China's Tibet autonomous area,&nbsp;carried out a drill in the&nbsp;Himalayan region to test their logistics, armament support capabilities and military-civilian integration, the first ever since the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/doklam-happened-due-to-lack-of-mutual-trust-says-china-132612">Doklam standoff</a>.&nbsp;

The drill was carried out on Tuesday. Reports informed that in August last year a similar drill was carried out which lasted 13-hours long and was conducted at an elevation of 4,600 meters. The training was targeted at specific issues revealed in a high-altitude drill conducted in July.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-bilateral-trade-hits-historic-high-of-8444-billion-in-2017-34998">Despite Doklam, India-China bilateral trade hit&nbsp;historic</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-bilateral-trade-hits-historic-high-of-8444-billion-in-2017-34998">&nbsp;high of $84.44 billion in 2017</a>

The Western Theatre Command of China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) guards the 3,488-km-long Line of Actual Control (LAC) with India.&nbsp;

The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau has an adverse climate and complex topography. Over a long period of time, it is very difficult to provide soldiers with logistics and armament support.&nbsp;

To solve the difficulties in personnel survival, delivery, material supply, rescue, emergency maintenance and road safety, the military has adopted a military-civilian integration strategy and constantly advanced logistics support capabilities, Zhang Wenlong, head of the command logistics support department said.&nbsp;

Zhang said that the drill aimed to explore a new mode of military-civilian integration in the plateau command following the reshuffle of the military system.

During the drill, a local petroleum company supplied fuel immediately when the armoured unit ran out of fuel and the city government of Lhasa delivered a steady flow of food to soldiers after a day of mock battle, the report said.

"The biggest challenge of battle at the high altitude is to provide sustainable logistics and armament support. In the 1962 China-India border conflict, China failed to protect its fruits of victory due to poor logistics support. Although local Tibetan residents provided soldiers with temporary support, it was not sustainable," Song Zhongping, a military expert, told the Global Times.

<img alt="Chinese army8.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="720" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/Chinese%20army8.jpg" width="1280" />

&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-cannot-stand-another-doklam-incident-chinese-ambassador-145188">India, China '</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-cannot-stand-another-doklam-incident-chinese-ambassador-145188">cannot</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-cannot-stand-another-doklam-incident-chinese-ambassador-145188"> stand another Doklam': Chinese Ambassador</a>

<img alt="Chinese army2.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="720" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/Chinese%20army2.jpg" width="1280" />

After the 73-day military standoff at Doklam last year, that caused major disruption in relations, both sides <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-xi-agree-to-issue-strategic-guidance-to-their-militaries-to-build-trust--133407">made efforts to improve ties</a>.

<img alt="Chinese army9.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="720" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/Chinese%20army9.jpg" width="1280" />

One of the immediate fallouts of the Doklam stand-off was the suspension of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from Nathu-La side and the annual military exercise between the two countries. China also did not give the hydrological data of the Brahmaputra and the Indus river that originates in Chinese Tibet.&nbsp;

<img alt="Chinese army3.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="720" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/Chinese%20army3.jpg" width="1280" />

Meanwhile, a senior Chinese general will soon visit India, China's Defence Ministry said on Thursday, as the neighbours step up efforts to reset ties following an ice-breaking summit between their leaders.&nbsp;

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed in April to open a new chapter in ties, just months after a dispute over a stretch of their high-altitude Himalayan border rekindled fears of war.&nbsp;

<img alt="Chinese army7.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="720" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/Chinese%20army7.jpg" width="1280" />

The drill aimed to explore a new mode of military-civilian integration in the plateau command following the reshuffle of the military system

Soldiers of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) stationed in Southwest China's Tibet autonomous area, carried out a drill in the Himalayan region to test their logistics, armament support capabilities and military-civilian integration, the first ever since the Doklam standoff. The drill was carried out on Tuesday. Reports informed that in August last year a similar drill was carried out which lasted 13-hours long and was conducted at an elevation of 4,600 meters. The training was targeted at specific issues revealed in a high-altitude drill conducted in July. Also read: Despite Doklam, India-China bilateral trade hit historic high of $84.44 billion in 2017 The Western Theatre Command of China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) guards the 3,488-km-long Line of Actual Control (LAC) with India. The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau has an adverse climate and complex topography. Over a long period of time, it is very difficult to provide soldiers with logistics and armament support. To solve the difficulties in personnel survival, delivery, material supply, rescue, emergency maintenance and road safety, the military has adopted a military-civilian integration strategy and constantly advanced logistics support capabilities, Zhang Wenlong, head of the command logistics support department said. Zhang said that the drill aimed to explore a new mode of military-civilian integration in the plateau command following the reshuffle of the military system. During the drill, a local petroleum company supplied fuel immediately when the armoured unit ran out of fuel and the city government of Lhasa delivered a steady flow of food to soldiers after a day of mock battle, the report said. "The biggest challenge of battle at the high altitude is to provide sustainable logistics and armament support. In the 1962 China-India border conflict, China failed to protect its fruits of victory due to poor logistics support. Although local Tibetan residents provided soldiers with temporary support, it was not sustainable," Song Zhongping, a military expert, told the Global Times. Also read: India, China 'cannot stand another Doklam': Chinese Ambassador After the 73-day military standoff at Doklam last year, that caused major disruption in relations, both sides made efforts to improve ties. One of the immediate fallouts of the Doklam stand-off was the suspension of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from Nathu-La side and the annual military exercise between the two countries. China also did not give the hydrological data of the Brahmaputra and the Indus river that originates in Chinese Tibet. Meanwhile, a senior Chinese general will soon visit India, China's Defence Ministry said on Thursday, as the neighbours step up efforts to reset ties following an ice-breaking summit between their leaders. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed in April to open a new chapter in ties, just months after a dispute over a stretch of their high-altitude Himalayan border rekindled fears of war.

Watch: Chinese army holds drill to test military-civilian integration in Tibet, a first since Doklam standoff

In the first teaser released for the film Mulk, Rishi Kapoor and Taapsee Pannu look intense and meaning business as they take up their respective roles of an accused and a lawyer.&nbsp;

The film will bring the story of Murad Ali Mohammed played by Rishi Kapoor who is the accused and the defence lawyer, Aarti Mohammed played by Taapsee Pannu. It has been shot exclusively in Lucknow and Benaras and is helmed by Anubhav Sinha.&nbsp;

The poster of the film was dropped some days back generating a curiosity for it.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The teaser begins with Rishi Kapoor shutting the doors of his house to the media. He is heard being called as a traitor by the people. Taapsee is heard in the background saying, "You and your family have been accused of betraying the country."

The film will also have Prateik Babbar, Ashutosh Rana, and Rajat Kapoor.&nbsp;

Talking about the film, Taapsee had earlier said, "This is a film which we all have done with our hearts because of the topic it deals with. It’s purely a passion-driven project for each and every member of the cast and crew. The energies on the set were so good and it drove us all to finish the film in record time. It has been an extremely satisfying experience to do Mulk." 
&nbsp; 
The trailer for Mulk will be dropped soon, and the film will hit the theatres on August 3, 2018.

Watch the teaser here:&nbsp;

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The film will see Taapsee playing the role of a lawyer, while Rishi Kapoor will play the accused in the case.

In the first teaser released for the film Mulk, Rishi Kapoor and Taapsee Pannu look intense and meaning business as they take up their respective roles of an accused and a lawyer. The film will bring the story of Murad Ali Mohammed played by Rishi Kapoor who is the accused and the defence lawyer, Aarti Mohammed played by Taapsee Pannu. It has been shot exclusively in Lucknow and Benaras and is helmed by Anubhav Sinha. The poster of the film was dropped some days back generating a curiosity for it. The teaser begins with Rishi Kapoor shutting the doors of his house to the media. He is heard being called as a traitor by the people. Taapsee is heard in the background saying, "You and your family have been accused of betraying the country." The film will also have Prateik Babbar, Ashutosh Rana, and Rajat Kapoor. Talking about the film, Taapsee had earlier said, "This is a film which we all have done with our hearts because of the topic it deals with. It’s purely a passion-driven project for each and every member of the cast and crew. The energies on the set were so good and it drove us all to finish the film in record time. It has been an extremely satisfying experience to do Mulk." The trailer for Mulk will be dropped soon, and the film will hit the theatres on August 3, 2018. Watch the teaser here: ×

Watch 'Mulk' teaser: Rishi Kapoor, Taapsee Pannu look intense!

Finance Minister&nbsp;Piyush Goyal&nbsp;said that an agreement between India and&nbsp;Switzerland&nbsp;will provide them with all data on black money by the end of the next accounting year.

"All the data will be made available to us from February 1, 2018, to the end of this accounting year. So, why to assume this is black money or illegal transactions?" said Goyal on reports that money parked by Indians in Swiss banks rose by 50 per cent in 2017.

A report by a central European nation released data that showed money parked by Indians rose over 50 per cent to 1.01 billion Swiss francs (Rs. 7,000 crores) in 2017.

Goyal further mentioned a report which said 40 per cent of the total amount was deposited under Liberalised Remittance Scheme started by former finance minister&nbsp;P. Chidambaram.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/strong-action-to-be-taken-against-illicit-swiss-deposits-finance-minister-147886">Also read: Why it’s being assumed all the money in Swiss banks is illegal, says Finance minister</a>

"I don't know why they allowed any individual, including NRIs, to liberally remit $2.5 lakh outside the country," said Goyal

Adding to this, he said that strict action will be taken against anyone who is found guilty once the information is out.

Reacting to the devaluation of the Indian Rupee, Goyal said decisions will be taken keeping the international situation in mind.

"Whatever action we will take, it will be taken keeping the international situation in mind, knee-jerk reactions are not called for," said Goyal.

He also said that the recent announcements regarding the oil prices have led to America increasing interest rates, but he has faith in the Reserve Bank of India and the central government.

Making a comparison between rates of today and what had existed in 2013, he said the value of Rupee hasn't depreciated in the past five years.

"Rupee was in a worse state in 2013, under FDNR(B) scheme introduced by&nbsp;Raghuram Rajan, India borrowed $ 32 billion which we have fully returned. The rupee hasn't depreciated in the past five years."

In 2013, the then RBI Governor&nbsp;Raghuram Rajan&nbsp;introduced the Foreign Currency Non-Repatriable scheme in a swap arrangement to stabilise the currency.

Goyal further said that macroeconomic indicators are very strong in all aspects.

"The foreign exchange reserves have increased from $304 billion in 2013-14 to $425 in 2017-18. The current account deficits have come down to 1.9 per cent in 2017-18 from 4.8 per cent in 2013-14. And, fiscal deficit has reduced to 3.5 per cent in 2017-18 from 4.5 per cent in 2016-17."

The Indian Rupee (INR) on Thursday plunged at a low of 68.89 per dollar.

Reacting to the devaluation of the Indian Rupee, Goyal said decisions will be taken keeping the international situation in mind.

Finance Minister Piyush Goyal said that an agreement between India and Switzerland will provide them with all data on black money by the end of the next accounting year. "All the data will be made available to us from February 1, 2018, to the end of this accounting year. So, why to assume this is black money or illegal transactions?" said Goyal on reports that money parked by Indians in Swiss banks rose by 50 per cent in 2017. A report by a central European nation released data that showed money parked by Indians rose over 50 per cent to 1.01 billion Swiss francs (Rs. 7,000 crores) in 2017. Goyal further mentioned a report which said 40 per cent of the total amount was deposited under Liberalised Remittance Scheme started by former finance minister P. Chidambaram. Also read: Why it’s being assumed all the money in Swiss banks is illegal, says Finance minister "I don't know why they allowed any individual, including NRIs, to liberally remit $2.5 lakh outside the country," said Goyal Adding to this, he said that strict action will be taken against anyone who is found guilty once the information is out. Reacting to the devaluation of the Indian Rupee, Goyal said decisions will be taken keeping the international situation in mind. "Whatever action we will take, it will be taken keeping the international situation in mind, knee-jerk reactions are not called for," said Goyal. He also said that the recent announcements regarding the oil prices have led to America increasing interest rates, but he has faith in the Reserve Bank of India and the central government. Making a comparison between rates of today and what had existed in 2013, he said the value of Rupee hasn't depreciated in the past five years. "Rupee was in a worse state in 2013, under FDNR(B) scheme introduced by Raghuram Rajan, India borrowed $ 32 billion which we have fully returned. The rupee hasn't depreciated in the past five years." In 2013, the then RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan introduced the Foreign Currency Non-Repatriable scheme in a swap arrangement to stabilise the currency. Goyal further said that macroeconomic indicators are very strong in all aspects. "The foreign exchange reserves have increased from $304 billion in 2013-14 to $425 in 2017-18. The current account deficits have come down to 1.9 per cent in 2017-18 from 4.8 per cent in 2013-14. And, fiscal deficit has reduced to 3.5 per cent in 2017-18 from 4.5 per cent in 2016-17." The Indian Rupee (INR) on Thursday plunged at a low of 68.89 per dollar.

Will have all data on 'black money' parked abroad by next year: Finance Minister Piyush Goyal

Known for making feel-good, thought-provoking, message-driven social films, Rajkumar Hirani has always managed to connect with the audience. He is the director who understands the pulse of the society we live in and his films, in their nice, feel-good way give you perspective on life and things. His latest, 'Sanju' based on Sanjay Dutt's life attempts to give a very one-dimensional perspective on the actor whose career and life has been riddled by controversies.&nbsp; 
 
Featuring Ranbir Kapoor as Dutt, the film essentially is a heartwarming story of a strong-willed father and his very vulnerable, naive son. Paresh Rawal plays veteran actor Sunil Dutt and writers Hirani and Abhijat Joshi highlight only the struggles that the senior Dutt had undergone due to his son's misdeeds.&nbsp;

<img alt="sanju pic1_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sanju%20pic1_0.jpg" width="770" /> 
 
Since Dutt's story captured the imagination of the entire generation back in the 1990s, so a lot of the story is known. The writers fictionalise some aspects, keep some of the actual incidents and brush the rest of the controversies neatly under the carpet and present only certain aspects of Sanju's life. What we get is only half the story.&nbsp; 
 
The film primarily highlights Sanjay Dutt's struggle with drug addiction, his stint at the rehab in US in the 1980s and then dives straight into the Bombay blasts of 1993 and Dutt's long drawn court battle and subsequent jail in the arms act case. Stuff that is known to most of us. The film steers clear of all the controversies, the high-profile affairs that the actor had, his relationship with his first wife and daughter. Basically, it only tries to deliver one aspect of the actor's life- which was the most talked about- and somewhat whitewashes over the actor's then tainted image.&nbsp;

<img alt="sanju 3.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sanju%203.jpg" width="770" /> 
 
If we keep aside the fact that the film doesn't give too many new insights about Dutt's life or Bollywood- 'Sanju' is an endearing story. It has its moments of fun in the traditional Hirani style and the second half truly is engaging. Hirani brings all his known tricks to the table and refreshingly presents a very dark character in his typical style that manages to entertain and engage.&nbsp; 
 
The director also gets the best lead actor in Ranbir Kapoor. Kapoor with heavy prosthetics and makeup, gets the mannerisms and look of Dutt to the core and delivers a fine performance. He is fantastic in the scenes where he is struggling to overcome his addiction and makes you want to reach out to him, he is fantastic as the ageing actor wanting to tell his story honestly to the world. His scenes with Paresh Rawal who plays Sunil Dutt are emotional and well enacted. Rawal a formidable actor himself, delivers a compelling act. The two make the father-son story come alive with their genuine act.

<img alt="sanju 2.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sanju%202.jpg" width="770" /> 
 
The other actor who shines and holds his own in the midst of so many actors is Vicky Kaushal. This year is slowly turning out to be Kaushal's year and with each film, and very different roles, Kaushal is managing charm one and all. Kaushal plays Dutt's loyal friend who can literally go to any length to save his friend from drudgery. 'Sanju', apart from being a story of a father and son, is a story of two friends. Kaushal and Kapoor together light up the screen with their onscreen camaraderie and you can't help but root for their uncanny friendship.&nbsp;

<img alt="sanju 4.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sanju%204.jpg" width="770" /> 
 
The women deliver in their restricted roles. Manisha Koirala plays the exuberant Nargis Dutt and brings freshness in the narrative, Dia Mirza plays Manyata Dutt and is quite&nbsp;restrained in her performance. Sonam Kapoor as Dutt's childhood sweetheart leaves an impression as well. Anushka Sharma plays a fictional character and it's her character who unravels Sanju's story. I wish Hirani had not made her speak a strange accent and let her hair be its normal self, it would have been so much better.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1J76wN0TPI4" width="560"></iframe> 
 
Biopics usually try to glorify one's life. 'Sanju' is no different. It presents some very dark aspects of the actor's life in the most light-hearted way that Hirani can possibly imagine. It also leaves aside a bunch of things and concentrates on making Dutt look vulnerable, innocent and naive. Sure it shows his flaws but blankets it well with the circumstances he was in.&nbsp; 
 
'Sanju' is ultimately a very clean, simplistic version of Dutt's controversial life. It's Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal who make the film worth a watch.&nbsp;

'Sanju' based on Sanjay Dutt's life attempts to give a very one-dimensional perspective on the actor whose career and life has been riddled by controversies.

Known for making feel-good, thought-provoking, message-driven social films, Rajkumar Hirani has always managed to connect with the audience. He is the director who understands the pulse of the society we live in and his films, in their nice, feel-good way give you perspective on life and things. His latest, 'Sanju' based on Sanjay Dutt's life attempts to give a very one-dimensional perspective on the actor whose career and life has been riddled by controversies. Featuring Ranbir Kapoor as Dutt, the film essentially is a heartwarming story of a strong-willed father and his very vulnerable, naive son. Paresh Rawal plays veteran actor Sunil Dutt and writers Hirani and Abhijat Joshi highlight only the struggles that the senior Dutt had undergone due to his son's misdeeds. Since Dutt's story captured the imagination of the entire generation back in the 1990s, so a lot of the story is known. The writers fictionalise some aspects, keep some of the actual incidents and brush the rest of the controversies neatly under the carpet and present only certain aspects of Sanju's life. What we get is only half the story. The film primarily highlights Sanjay Dutt's struggle with drug addiction, his stint at the rehab in US in the 1980s and then dives straight into the Bombay blasts of 1993 and Dutt's long drawn court battle and subsequent jail in the arms act case. Stuff that is known to most of us. The film steers clear of all the controversies, the high-profile affairs that the actor had, his relationship with his first wife and daughter. Basically, it only tries to deliver one aspect of the actor's life- which was the most talked about- and somewhat whitewashes over the actor's then tainted image. If we keep aside the fact that the film doesn't give too many new insights about Dutt's life or Bollywood- 'Sanju' is an endearing story. It has its moments of fun in the traditional Hirani style and the second half truly is engaging. Hirani brings all his known tricks to the table and refreshingly presents a very dark character in his typical style that manages to entertain and engage. The director also gets the best lead actor in Ranbir Kapoor. Kapoor with heavy prosthetics and makeup, gets the mannerisms and look of Dutt to the core and delivers a fine performance. He is fantastic in the scenes where he is struggling to overcome his addiction and makes you want to reach out to him, he is fantastic as the ageing actor wanting to tell his story honestly to the world. His scenes with Paresh Rawal who plays Sunil Dutt are emotional and well enacted. Rawal a formidable actor himself, delivers a compelling act. The two make the father-son story come alive with their genuine act. The other actor who shines and holds his own in the midst of so many actors is Vicky Kaushal. This year is slowly turning out to be Kaushal's year and with each film, and very different roles, Kaushal is managing charm one and all. Kaushal plays Dutt's loyal friend who can literally go to any length to save his friend from drudgery. 'Sanju', apart from being a story of a father and son, is a story of two friends. Kaushal and Kapoor together light up the screen with their onscreen camaraderie and you can't help but root for their uncanny friendship. The women deliver in their restricted roles. Manisha Koirala plays the exuberant Nargis Dutt and brings freshness in the narrative, Dia Mirza plays Manyata Dutt and is quite restrained in her performance. Sonam Kapoor as Dutt's childhood sweetheart leaves an impression as well. Anushka Sharma plays a fictional character and it's her character who unravels Sanju's story. I wish Hirani had not made her speak a strange accent and let her hair be its normal self, it would have been so much better. Biopics usually try to glorify one's life. 'Sanju' is no different. It presents some very dark aspects of the actor's life in the most light-hearted way that Hirani can possibly imagine. It also leaves aside a bunch of things and concentrates on making Dutt look vulnerable, innocent and naive. Sure it shows his flaws but blankets it well with the circumstances he was in. 'Sanju' is ultimately a very clean, simplistic version of Dutt's controversial life. It's Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal who make the film worth a watch.

'Sanju': Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal shine in Hirani's version of Dutt's story

Akash Ambani and Shloka Mehta's engagement was a starry affair.

Akash Ambani- Shloka Mehta's engagement bash has Priyanka Chopra, Ranbir Kapoor, SRK in attendance

Anushka Sharma and Varun Dhawan were snapped in the wee hours yesterday shooting for their upcoming film, <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-watch-varun-dhawan-champions-made-in-india-as-he-goes-to-a-local-barber-for-sui-dhaaga-145241">Sui Dhaaga: Made In India</a>. The two actors who play a couple in the film were seen shooting for an intense sequence amidst a crowd.&nbsp;

In the photos released, <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/video-anushka-sharma-takes-up-stitching-for-film-sui-dhaaga-with-varun-dhawan-36569">Anushka</a> is seen sporting a white and pink saree while Varun dons simple pant and shirt.&nbsp;

The film is directed by Sharat Katariya and will bring Anushka and Varun together on the big screen for the first time. Sui Dhaaga is a film set in rural India in which Varun plays the role of a tailor named Mauji while Anushka is an embroider named Mamta.&nbsp;

The film is slated to release on September 28, 2018.&nbsp;

See their pictures here:&nbsp;

<img alt="New (2)_4.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/New%20(2)_4.jpg" width="770" />

<img alt="New (3)_1.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/New%20(3)_1.jpg" width="770" />

<img alt="New (4)_2.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/New%20(4)_2.jpg" width="770" />

<img alt="New (5)_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/New%20(5)_0.jpg" width="770" />

Meanwhile, Anushka will also be seen in Shah Rukh Khan’s <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-shah-rukh-khan-begins-shooting-for-zero-climax-in-the-us-see-photos-145589">Zero </a>-- she returned from USA leg of shooting with Khan himself earlier this month. She also features in Ranbir Kapoor starrer <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-sanju-review-ranbir-kapoor-and-vicky-kaushal-shine-in-hiranis-version-of-dutts-story-147872">Sanju</a> that released today.&nbsp;

Varun, on the other hand, has started shooting for<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-kriti-sanon-to-groove-with-varun-dhawan-and-aditya-roy-kapur-in-a-special-song-for-kalank-141368"> Kalank</a> in the city along with Alia Bhatt, Sanjay Dutt, Madhuri Dixit, Sonakshi Sinha and Aditya Roy Kapur.

The film is slated to release on September 28, 2018.

Anushka Sharma and Varun Dhawan were snapped in the wee hours yesterday shooting for their upcoming film, Sui Dhaaga: Made In India. The two actors who play a couple in the film were seen shooting for an intense sequence amidst a crowd. In the photos released, Anushka is seen sporting a white and pink saree while Varun dons simple pant and shirt. The film is directed by Sharat Katariya and will bring Anushka and Varun together on the big screen for the first time. Sui Dhaaga is a film set in rural India in which Varun plays the role of a tailor named Mauji while Anushka is an embroider named Mamta. The film is slated to release on September 28, 2018. See their pictures here: Meanwhile, Anushka will also be seen in Shah Rukh Khan’s Zero -- she returned from USA leg of shooting with Khan himself earlier this month. She also features in Ranbir Kapoor starrer Sanju that released today. Varun, on the other hand, has started shooting for Kalank in the city along with Alia Bhatt, Sanjay Dutt, Madhuri Dixit, Sonakshi Sinha and Aditya Roy Kapur.

In pictures: Varun Dhawan, Anushka Sharma snapped shooting for 'Sui Dhaaga'

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat said on Friday that the Indian army was conducting operations under strict friendly rules in Jammu and Kashmir.

While talking to a group of students from Baramullah he said, "Army continues to operate under strict rules of engagement that have been formulated. We conduct operations in a very people friendly manner. Motivated reports that keep coming out that Army and security forces are brutally carrying out operations aren't true".

He further called that reports that say security forces conduct a brutal operation in the state as "motivated".

"Our basic purpose is to get after terrorists who are creating violence and disturbance in the Kashmir valley. Our aim is not to inconvenience the civilian population which is not indulging in arsenal violence".

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/president-kovind-approves-governors-rule-in-jammu-and-kashmir-145691">Jammu and Kashmir </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/president-kovind-approves-governors-rule-in-jammu-and-kashmir-145691">was</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/president-kovind-approves-governors-rule-in-jammu-and-kashmir-145691"> placed under Governor's rule on June 20,</a> the fourth time in the last one decade, after the BJP withdrew support to its alliance partner PDP forcing Mehbooba Mufti to resign as the chief minister of the state.

"There is nothing like stepping up... Army continues to operate with the formulated rules of engagement," Rawat said when asked whether security has been stepped up in the Valley after the fall of the government.

The Army chief said in addition to the "stringent" rules of engagement, local formation commanders continuously give guidelines to soldiers as to how to operate.

General Rawat had earlier dismissed the recent UN report on alleged human rights violations in Kashmir as "motivated" and asserted that Indian Army's record in this regard was "absolutely above board".

"The message we want these children to go back with is that if terrorist activities and stone-pelting stops in Kashmir, it too can prosper like Delhi or other big cities, and perhaps even better," he said.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

While talking to a group of students from Baramullah he said, "Army continues to operate under strict rules of engagement that have been formulated. We conduct operations in a very people friendly manner. Motivated reports that keep coming out that Army and security forces are brutally carrying out operations aren't true"

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat said on Friday that the Indian army was conducting operations under strict friendly rules in Jammu and Kashmir. While talking to a group of students from Baramullah he said, "Army continues to operate under strict rules of engagement that have been formulated. We conduct operations in a very people friendly manner. Motivated reports that keep coming out that Army and security forces are brutally carrying out operations aren't true". He further called that reports that say security forces conduct a brutal operation in the state as "motivated". "Our basic purpose is to get after terrorists who are creating violence and disturbance in the Kashmir valley. Our aim is not to inconvenience the civilian population which is not indulging in arsenal violence". Jammu and Kashmir was placed under Governor's rule on June 20, the fourth time in the last one decade, after the BJP withdrew support to its alliance partner PDP forcing Mehbooba Mufti to resign as the chief minister of the state. "There is nothing like stepping up... Army continues to operate with the formulated rules of engagement," Rawat said when asked whether security has been stepped up in the Valley after the fall of the government. The Army chief said in addition to the "stringent" rules of engagement, local formation commanders continuously give guidelines to soldiers as to how to operate. General Rawat had earlier dismissed the recent UN report on alleged human rights violations in Kashmir as "motivated" and asserted that Indian Army's record in this regard was "absolutely above board". "The message we want these children to go back with is that if terrorist activities and stone-pelting stops in Kashmir, it too can prosper like Delhi or other big cities, and perhaps even better," he said. (With inputs from PTI)

Army operating with people friendly rules of engagement in J&K: Army General Bipin Rawat

Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on Wednesday termed the recent report released by the United Nations on the alleged human rights violations in Kashmir as 'motivated' and untrue.

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat dismisses UN report on human rights violation in Kashmir

With deposits by Indians in Swiss banks surging, finance minister Piyush Goyal on Friday wondered how all of it can be assumed to be black money, but said strong action would be taken against anyone found guilty of wrongdoing.

India would start getting details of bank accounts from Switzerland under a bilateral treaty, he said.

Money parked by Indians in Swiss banks rose over 50 per cent to CHF (Swiss franc) 1.01 billion (Rs 7,000 crore) in 2017, reversing a three-year downward trend amid India's clampdown on suspected black money stashed there.&nbsp;

In comparison, the total funds held by all foreign clients of Swiss banks rose about 3 per cent to CHF 1.46 trillion or about Rs 100 lakh crore in 2017, according to data released by the Swiss National Bank (SNB), the central banking authority of the Alpine nation.

India has a treaty with Switzerland under which the Swiss government would provide all data from January 1, 2018, till December 31, 2018. India would get data as the accounting year ends, Goyal said.&nbsp;

Referring to the rise in Swiss bank deposits by Indians, Goyal said, "The data that you alluded to will come to us, so how are you assuming that this is black money or this is an illegal transaction?"

Around 40 per cent of this money is because of the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS), Goyal said, citing media reports.

The scheme was introduced by former Finance Minister P Chidambaram. Under the LRS, an individual could remit up to $2,50,000 per year.

"We will have all information. If someone is found guilty, the government will take strong action against them," Goyal said.

India would start getting details of bank accounts from Switzerland under a bilateral treaty, Piyush Goyal said

With deposits by Indians in Swiss banks surging, finance minister Piyush Goyal on Friday wondered how all of it can be assumed to be black money, but said strong action would be taken against anyone found guilty of wrongdoing. India would start getting details of bank accounts from Switzerland under a bilateral treaty, he said. Money parked by Indians in Swiss banks rose over 50 per cent to CHF (Swiss franc) 1.01 billion (Rs 7,000 crore) in 2017, reversing a three-year downward trend amid India's clampdown on suspected black money stashed there. In comparison, the total funds held by all foreign clients of Swiss banks rose about 3 per cent to CHF 1.46 trillion or about Rs 100 lakh crore in 2017, according to data released by the Swiss National Bank (SNB), the central banking authority of the Alpine nation. India has a treaty with Switzerland under which the Swiss government would provide all data from January 1, 2018, till December 31, 2018. India would get data as the accounting year ends, Goyal said. Referring to the rise in Swiss bank deposits by Indians, Goyal said, "The data that you alluded to will come to us, so how are you assuming that this is black money or this is an illegal transaction?" Around 40 per cent of this money is because of the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS), Goyal said, citing media reports. The scheme was introduced by former Finance Minister P Chidambaram. Under the LRS, an individual could remit up to $2,50,000 per year. "We will have all information. If someone is found guilty, the government will take strong action against them," Goyal said.

Why it’s being assumed all the money in Swiss banks is illegal: Finance minister

A criminal complaint has been filed against senior Congress leaders <a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/wion-exclusive-priyanka-gandhi-managing-elections-from-delhi-says-ghulam-nabi-azad-13069">Ghulam Nabi Azad</a> and <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/congress-leader-saifuddin-soz-backs-pervez-musharrafs-remarks-on-kashmir-bjp-hits-out--146349">Saifuddin Soz</a> in Delhi's Patiala House Court on Friday for making '<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-dares-congress-to-take-action-against-ghulam-nabi-azad-saifuddin-sozs-controversial-remarks-on-kashmir-146561">seditious statements against Indian Army</a>'.

Senior Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad had said earlier that the army operations in Jammu and Kashmir have killed more civilians than terrorists.

While Saifuddin Soz had recently backed anti-India statement made by former Pakistan President Pervez Mushraff&nbsp;where he claimed that if given a choice Jammu and Kashmir would prefer to remain independent and not join India.

The complaint has been filed against the leaders by an advocate for "inciting disaffection in the minds of people against Indian Army and Government of India".&nbsp;

The plea seeks actions against the Congress leaders under sections 124 (sedition), 120 B (criminal conspiracy) and 505(1) (spreading rumour about army/navy/air force).

The matter is scheduled for hearing on Saturday (June 30) at the magisterial court in Delhi.&nbsp;

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Criminal complaint filed against Congress senior leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad and Saifuddin Soz in Delhi's Patiala House Court for making 'seditious statements against Indian Army'.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1012601851718569984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Senior Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad had said earlier that the army operations in Jammu and Kashmir have killed more civilians than terrorists.

A criminal complaint has been filed against senior Congress leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad and Saifuddin Soz in Delhi's Patiala House Court on Friday for making 'seditious statements against Indian Army'. Senior Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad had said earlier that the army operations in Jammu and Kashmir have killed more civilians than terrorists. While Saifuddin Soz had recently backed anti-India statement made by former Pakistan President Pervez Mushraff where he claimed that if given a choice Jammu and Kashmir would prefer to remain independent and not join India. The complaint has been filed against the leaders by an advocate for "inciting disaffection in the minds of people against Indian Army and Government of India". The plea seeks actions against the Congress leaders under sections 124 (sedition), 120 B (criminal conspiracy) and 505(1) (spreading rumour about army/navy/air force). The matter is scheduled for hearing on Saturday (June 30) at the magisterial court in Delhi. Criminal complaint filed against Congress senior leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad and Saifuddin Soz in Delhi's Patiala House Court for making 'seditious statements against Indian Army'. — ANI (@ANI) June 29, 2018 ×

Complaint filed against Congress leader Azad, Soz for making 'seditious comments against army'

After a long spell of dust storms and scorching heat, Delhi finally received a relief as south-west monsoon hit the city this week with light rain on Monday and heavy showers yesterday.

According to reports, the rains helped settle the pollution in the capital city and Delhiites breathed the cleanest air this week, in the satisfactory level, for the first time in nearly a year.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) value for the capital was a "satisfactory" at 83 today, according to the Central Pollution Control Board data.<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/n6WdR1c4RQE" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>

An Air Quality Index (AQI) between 0-50 is considered "Good", 51-100 "Satisfactory", 101-200 "Moderate", 201-300 "Poor", 301-400 "Very Poor", and 401-500 "Severe".

The last time when Delhi's air quality was recorded under "satisfactory" category was around a year ago in August, an official with the Central Pollution Control Board said.

"The air quality will further improve tomorrow and in the coming days. The monsoon winds cleaned the dusty air and brought the air quality to "satisfactory level," said Gufran Beig, a scientist at the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research Institute (SAFAR).

The air quality might even touch even 'good' level in the coming days, Beig added.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

The last time when Delhi's air quality was recorded under "satisfactory" category was around a year ago in August

After a long spell of dust storms and scorching heat, Delhi finally received a relief as south-west monsoon hit the city this week with light rain on Monday and heavy showers yesterday. According to reports, the rains helped settle the pollution in the capital city and Delhiites breathed the cleanest air this week, in the satisfactory level, for the first time in nearly a year. The Air Quality Index (AQI) value for the capital was a "satisfactory" at 83 today, according to the Central Pollution Control Board data. An Air Quality Index (AQI) between 0-50 is considered "Good", 51-100 "Satisfactory", 101-200 "Moderate", 201-300 "Poor", 301-400 "Very Poor", and 401-500 "Severe". The last time when Delhi's air quality was recorded under "satisfactory" category was around a year ago in August, an official with the Central Pollution Control Board said. "The air quality will further improve tomorrow and in the coming days. The monsoon winds cleaned the dusty air and brought the air quality to "satisfactory level," said Gufran Beig, a scientist at the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research Institute (SAFAR). The air quality might even touch even 'good' level in the coming days, Beig added. (With inputs from PTI)

Delhi breathes clean air for first time in nearly a year

Union Minister Anantkumar Hegde stirred a row after comparing opposition members to crows, monkeys, foxes. At a public meeting in Karwar in Karnataka, Hegde said: "On one side crows, monkeys, foxes and others have come together, on the other side we have a tiger. In 2019, choose to elect the tiger."

Holding the Congress responsible for the rate of growth of the country, he said: "We are sitting on plastic chairs, isn't it? (asking the audience). This is due to Congress rule, had we ruled for 70 years, you would have been sitting on silver chairs," he claimed.

Hedge has often in the past sparked controversies over his statements.

When asked to respond to Hegde's remark, Veerappa Moily of Congress said ''the tiger has become wild, and has to be sent back to the forest.''

When asked to respond to Hegde's remark, Veerappa Moily of Congress said ''the tiger has become wild and has to be sent back to the forest.''

Union Minister Anantkumar Hegde stirred a row after comparing opposition members to crows, monkeys, foxes. At a public meeting in Karwar in Karnataka, Hegde said: "On one side crows, monkeys, foxes and others have come together, on the other side we have a tiger. In 2019, choose to elect the tiger." Holding the Congress responsible for the rate of growth of the country, he said: "We are sitting on plastic chairs, isn't it? (asking the audience). This is due to Congress rule, had we ruled for 70 years, you would have been sitting on silver chairs," he claimed. Hedge has often in the past sparked controversies over his statements. When asked to respond to Hegde's remark, Veerappa Moily of Congress said ''the tiger has become wild, and has to be sent back to the forest.''

BJP says it has a 'tiger' in Modi, Congress hits back

Delhi Metro services may be hit on Saturday after talks between DMRC and the Metro employees&nbspUnion broke down on Friday afternoon.&nbsp&nbsp

Delhi Metro services might be severely affected from June 30 as the non-executive staff of the transporter have threatened to go on a strike, if their demands are not met by then.

There are nearly 12,000 people employed with the transporter, with non-executive staffers accounting for about 9,000.

Some of the non-executive staff of the DMRC have been demonstrating at a few metro stations, including Yamuna Bank and Shahdara, since June 19 in support of their eight-point demand.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Staff Council had given a call to every member to join the agitation, but not all have participated in the stir.

The non-executive workforce includes train operators, station controllers, operations and maintenance staff and technicians, and form a major component in the operation of the rapid rail network.

Some of the council members have been protesting over a number of issues, including pay-scale revision, modification of DMRC Staff Council as an employees union, proper guidelines for sacking of an employee and that too in extreme conditions.

The council said the demands have been sent to Delhi Metro authorities and Union Urban Affairs Ministry.

"Our first demand is that that the DMRC Staff Council be changed to a DMRC employees union as the council is not a constitutional body and so, it does not have any teeth.

"Other demands include implementation of our Industrial Dearness Allowance (IDA) as per the 3rd pay revision scale," the council's secretary, Ravi Bhardwaj, said.

A senior DMRC official, when contacted, said: "Their is a possibility of services shutting down if no agreement is reached, but we are hopeful of reaching a resolution."

He also claimed that during these protests over the past several days "metro services have not been affected."

In a statement issued later in the evening, the DMRC said, "In connection with the HR issues pertaining to a section of the employees in the DMRC, this is to inform that a meeting was held today at the office of the Regional Labour Commissioner (RLC)."&nbsp

"All the issues raised by the employees are under discussion and all possible efforts are being made to reach a mutually acceptable resolution as early as possible," it said.

He said on the first day of the protest many employees - from drivers to station controllers and other staff - wore black armbands to register their protest.

"Subsequently, when the DMRC did not take cognisance of our demands, we went on symbolic hunger strike, when many of our members did not consume food while on duty and demonstrated by sitting on platforms," he said. 
"If our demands are not met by June 29, we will go on complete hunger strike and work in that condition, and drivers will drive trains in that condition. And, if anything happens to our members or to commuters then the DMRC shall be responsible for it," Bhardwaj said. 
"Even then if our voices are not heard by DMRC authorities, we will completely stop work from June 30," he claimed.

There are nearly 12,000 people employed with the transporter, with non-executive staffers accounting for about 9,000.

Delhi Metro services may be hit on Saturday after talks between DMRC and the Metro employees&nbspUnion broke down on Friday afternoon. Delhi Metro services might be severely affected from June 30 as the non-executive staff of the transporter have threatened to go on a strike, if their demands are not met by then. There are nearly 12,000 people employed with the transporter, with non-executive staffers accounting for about 9,000. Some of the non-executive staff of the DMRC have been demonstrating at a few metro stations, including Yamuna Bank and Shahdara, since June 19 in support of their eight-point demand. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Staff Council had given a call to every member to join the agitation, but not all have participated in the stir. The non-executive workforce includes train operators, station controllers, operations and maintenance staff and technicians, and form a major component in the operation of the rapid rail network. Some of the council members have been protesting over a number of issues, including pay-scale revision, modification of DMRC Staff Council as an employees union, proper guidelines for sacking of an employee and that too in extreme conditions. The council said the demands have been sent to Delhi Metro authorities and Union Urban Affairs Ministry. "Our first demand is that that the DMRC Staff Council be changed to a DMRC employees union as the council is not a constitutional body and so, it does not have any teeth. "Other demands include implementation of our Industrial Dearness Allowance (IDA) as per the 3rd pay revision scale," the council's secretary, Ravi Bhardwaj, said. A senior DMRC official, when contacted, said: "Their is a possibility of services shutting down if no agreement is reached, but we are hopeful of reaching a resolution." He also claimed that during these protests over the past several days "metro services have not been affected." In a statement issued later in the evening, the DMRC said, "In connection with the HR issues pertaining to a section of the employees in the DMRC, this is to inform that a meeting was held today at the office of the Regional Labour Commissioner (RLC)." "All the issues raised by the employees are under discussion and all possible efforts are being made to reach a mutually acceptable resolution as early as possible," it said. He said on the first day of the protest many employees - from drivers to station controllers and other staff - wore black armbands to register their protest. "Subsequently, when the DMRC did not take cognisance of our demands, we went on symbolic hunger strike, when many of our members did not consume food while on duty and demonstrated by sitting on platforms," he said. "If our demands are not met by June 29, we will go on complete hunger strike and work in that condition, and drivers will drive trains in that condition. And, if anything happens to our members or to commuters then the DMRC shall be responsible for it," Bhardwaj said. "Even then if our voices are not heard by DMRC authorities, we will completely stop work from June 30," he claimed.

Talks between DMRC, employees break down; Delhi Metro services may be hit on Saturday

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said in Bhopal on Friday that rapists were "burden on the earth" and do not deserve to live.

According to news agency PTI, he also condemned the incident in Mandsaur, where an eight-year-old girl was allegedly raped by a man, who abducted her from outside her school.

"Yeh darinde dharti par bojh hai. Yeh dharti par jeevit rahne ke layak nahi hai," (These beasts are a burden on the earth. They do not deserve to live)," Chouhan told reporters at his residence.

"In cases of rape, we have made a provision for trial in the fast track courts. We will request the high court and the Supreme Court to make a similar provision so that culprits in such crimes get capital punishment at the earliest," he added.

The Madhya Pradesh Assembly had unanimously passed a Bill last year awarding death penalty to those found guilty of raping girls aged 12 and below.

On the Mandsaur episode, Chouhan said, "It was a painful incident. We are with the (victim's) family and keeping an eye on the girl's condition. Her condition is improving and I am in constant touch with the doctors."

"The accused has already been arrested and there is evidence against him. We will ensure through fasfast-trackurts that he will get capital punishment at the earliest," the chief minister said.

The incident had taken place on Tuesday evening when the minor was waiting for her family members outside her school in order to go home. The accused, Irfan alias Bhaiyu (20) abducted her and took her to the bus stand area, where he raped her

in the bushes near Laxman Darwaja, police have said.

The accused, who even tried to kill her by slitting her throat using a knife, was arrested on Wednesday night.&nbsp;

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Victim's health condition is improving. The case should be heard in Court soon and the accused should be hanged till death for the heinous crime he committed: Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj S Chouhan on rape of a minor girl in Mansdaur <a href="https://t.co/j60SBedJnC">pic.twitter.com/j60SBedJnC</a>
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&nbsp;

The Madhya Pradesh Assembly had unanimously passed a Bill last year awarding death penalty to those found guilty of raping girls aged 12 and below.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said in Bhopal on Friday that rapists were "burden on the earth" and do not deserve to live. According to news agency PTI, he also condemned the incident in Mandsaur, where an eight-year-old girl was allegedly raped by a man, who abducted her from outside her school. "Yeh darinde dharti par bojh hai. Yeh dharti par jeevit rahne ke layak nahi hai," (These beasts are a burden on the earth. They do not deserve to live)," Chouhan told reporters at his residence. "In cases of rape, we have made a provision for trial in the fast track courts. We will request the high court and the Supreme Court to make a similar provision so that culprits in such crimes get capital punishment at the earliest," he added. The Madhya Pradesh Assembly had unanimously passed a Bill last year awarding death penalty to those found guilty of raping girls aged 12 and below. On the Mandsaur episode, Chouhan said, "It was a painful incident. We are with the (victim's) family and keeping an eye on the girl's condition. Her condition is improving and I am in constant touch with the doctors." "The accused has already been arrested and there is evidence against him. We will ensure through fasfast-trackurts that he will get capital punishment at the earliest," the chief minister said. The incident had taken place on Tuesday evening when the minor was waiting for her family members outside her school in order to go home. The accused, Irfan alias Bhaiyu (20) abducted her and took her to the bus stand area, where he raped her in the bushes near Laxman Darwaja, police have said. The accused, who even tried to kill her by slitting her throat using a knife, was arrested on Wednesday night. Victim's health condition is improving. The case should be heard in Court soon and the accused should be hanged till death for the heinous crime he committed: Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj S Chouhan on rape of a minor girl in Mansdaur pic.twitter.com/j60SBedJnC — ANI (@ANI) June 29, 2018 ×

Rapists burden on earth, don't deserve to live: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

Salman Khan has a lot to worry about as Ranbir Kapoor’s film Sanju hit the theatres today, with the widest screen presence possible in the country. Procuring more than 4000 screens in the country, trade predictions put Sanju’s <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-sanju-box-office-prediction-ranbir-kapoor-starrer-expected-to-earn-rs-20-crore-on-opening-day-147838">first day collections</a> to more than Rs 20 crores on the first day. Not only this, it’s international release is also touted to be massive.&nbsp;

It might be too early to say that the film will be the biggest one this year but Sanju will give a major fight to Salman Khan’s Race 3 is a sure shot claim. This at a time when Race 3 has failed to make a mark at the box office even though it comes from a known and hit franchise starring the biggest superstar of our time, Salman Khan. The film has, however, made its money and crossed Rs 200 crore but it’s still much below what was expected from the film. Also, Salman Khan fans are not too happy with the film and his choice of films in the recent past.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Sanju that released today has been generating quite a buzz with Ranbir’s amazing transformation as the 'hunky, failure and hero' Sanjay Dutt. The film has now recorded the fifth highest advances of all times after Baahubali: The Conclusion, Avengers: Infinity War, Tiger Zinda Hai and Sultan.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The movie has beaten Salman Khan's Race 3 and Aamir Khan's Dangal in the advances race with Race 3 taking the sixth spot after Sanju.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Sanju also stars Sonam Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, Paresh Rawal, Manisha Koirala, Dia Mirza, Vicky Kausal, Jim Sarbh, among others. 
&nbsp; 
The top ten advances of all time in India are as follows: 
&nbsp; 
1. Bahubali - The Conclusion - Rs 37,53,00,000 
&nbsp; 
2. Avengers - Infinity War - Rs 28,14,00,000 
&nbsp; 
3. Tiger Zinda Hai - Rs 24,76,00,000&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
4. Sultan - Rs 21,53,00,000 
&nbsp; 
5. Sanju - Rs 20,50,00,000 approx 
&nbsp; 
6. Race 3 - Rs 19,16,00,000&nbsp;

'Sanju' is expected to witness the biggest opening for an Indian film in the country this year

Salman Khan has a lot to worry about as Ranbir Kapoor’s film Sanju hit the theatres today, with the widest screen presence possible in the country. Procuring more than 4000 screens in the country, trade predictions put Sanju’s first day collections to more than Rs 20 crores on the first day. Not only this, it’s international release is also touted to be massive. It might be too early to say that the film will be the biggest one this year but Sanju will give a major fight to Salman Khan’s Race 3 is a sure shot claim. This at a time when Race 3 has failed to make a mark at the box office even though it comes from a known and hit franchise starring the biggest superstar of our time, Salman Khan. The film has, however, made its money and crossed Rs 200 crore but it’s still much below what was expected from the film. Also, Salman Khan fans are not too happy with the film and his choice of films in the recent past. Meanwhile, Sanju that released today has been generating quite a buzz with Ranbir’s amazing transformation as the 'hunky, failure and hero' Sanjay Dutt. The film has now recorded the fifth highest advances of all times after Baahubali: The Conclusion, Avengers: Infinity War, Tiger Zinda Hai and Sultan. The movie has beaten Salman Khan's Race 3 and Aamir Khan's Dangal in the advances race with Race 3 taking the sixth spot after Sanju. Sanju also stars Sonam Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, Paresh Rawal, Manisha Koirala, Dia Mirza, Vicky Kausal, Jim Sarbh, among others. The top ten advances of all time in India are as follows: 1. Bahubali - The Conclusion - Rs 37,53,00,000 2. Avengers - Infinity War - Rs 28,14,00,000 3. Tiger Zinda Hai - Rs 24,76,00,000 4. Sultan - Rs 21,53,00,000 5. Sanju - Rs 20,50,00,000 approx 6. Race 3 - Rs 19,16,00,000

'Sanju' box office: Ranbir Kapoor's film's occupancy beats Salman Khan's Race 3?

Multinational companies like Amazon and H&M are lobbying to soften a <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-relaxes-plastic-ban-for-retailers-147621">ban against single-use plastic</a> imposed by Maharashtra last week, according to four sources familiar with the matter.

The ban by the state, home to India's financial capital of Mumbai, could sharply raise costs for companies that rely heavily on plastic for packaging, such as retailers, beverage makers and sellers of bottled water.

Maharashtra's move, the first such broad action against plastic by an Indian state, comes as Prime Minister Narendra Modi pushes a plan to completely end the use of single-use plastic in the country by 2022.

Plastic packaging accounts for nearly half of all plastic waste globally, and much of it is thrown away within just a few minutes of its first use, according to the United Nations.

Representatives of companies including Amazon, H&M, Pepsi and Coca-Cola, as well as plastic industry bodies and lobby groups, met with Maharashtra government officials days before the ban came into effect on June 23, urging them to implement the rule in phases and relax some norms, said the four sources who declined to be named.

"Our demand to the government is: give the industry seven years to come up with alternatives," said Neemit Punamiya, general secretary of the Plastic Bags Manufacturers Association of India, who attended the meeting. "It cannot happen overnight - we've got investments, we've got loans to pay and people to manage."

The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, whose members include online retailers such as Amazon India and Flipkart, said in a June 7 letter to the state government that such a ban "will not be without its own share of adverse environmental impacts which are largely driven by issues associated with the use of alternatives".

The Internet and Mobile Association of India, which also counts Amazon and Flipkart as members, said it had asked the state to ease the rules but did not specify what relaxation it was seeking.

Beverage makers such as Pepsi and Coca-Cola, meanwhile, want an exemption from the rules as they mandate a buyback of empty bottles at a guaranteed price, which will raise costs, another source familiar with the talks said.

Amazon, Flipkart, Pepsi and Coca-Cola did not respond to requests for comment. H&M said in a statement that it supported reusing and recycling, adding that the company had asked the government to clarify the rules and for help coming up with solutions.

Maharashtra's environment minister said Wednesday that the government would relax rules for neighbourhood grocery stores allowing them to pack commodities such as rice and pulses in plastic. They would, however, have to ensure buyers return the packaging for recycling.

A senior state official told Reuters the government could moderate some aspects of the rule for online retailers as well or give them more time to comply. Another official confirmed that issues raised by the industry was being looked into.

Both officials declined to be named as the talks are not public.

Enforcing Compliance

Maharashtra's plastic ban includes bags, food containers, spoons, forks, glasses and packaging wraps - which the local plastics industry says could cost it up to 150 billion rupees ($2.20 billion) a year and nearly 300,000 jobs.

For online retailers, cost is one of the main issues.

An e-commerce industry source said that packaging charges comprise about 2 per cent to 3.5 per cent of fulfilment costs - the price of shipping, delivery and compensating sellers for discounts - and that the use of biodegradable plastic or other alternatives could push these costs higher.

Cardboard boxes, for example, could cost nearly a third more than plastic packing, according to industry estimates cited by the Economic Times daily.

Since the ban came into force, squads of officials in Mumbai have been raiding shops and restaurants, sometimes accompanied by police, to enforce compliance.

Violations could result in penalties of up to 25,000 rupees ($362.49) and jail terms of up to three months.

Nidhi Choudhari, Mumbai's deputy municipal commissioner, told Reuters it has collected more than 1.3 million rupees in penalties so far.

Bharati Chaturvedi, founder of the Chintan environmental advocacy group in New Delhi, said she feared the plastics industry would use any compliance extensions to try to put off the ban indefinitely.

"We should really have a hard ban," she said.

The ban by the state of Maharashtra, home to India's financial capital of Mumbai, could sharply raise costs for companies that rely heavily on plastic for packaging, such as retailers, beverage makers and sellers of bottled water

Multinational companies like Amazon and H&M are lobbying to soften a ban against single-use plastic imposed by Maharashtra last week, according to four sources familiar with the matter. The ban by the state, home to India's financial capital of Mumbai, could sharply raise costs for companies that rely heavily on plastic for packaging, such as retailers, beverage makers and sellers of bottled water. Maharashtra's move, the first such broad action against plastic by an Indian state, comes as Prime Minister Narendra Modi pushes a plan to completely end the use of single-use plastic in the country by 2022. Plastic packaging accounts for nearly half of all plastic waste globally, and much of it is thrown away within just a few minutes of its first use, according to the United Nations. Representatives of companies including Amazon, H&M, Pepsi and Coca-Cola, as well as plastic industry bodies and lobby groups, met with Maharashtra government officials days before the ban came into effect on June 23, urging them to implement the rule in phases and relax some norms, said the four sources who declined to be named. "Our demand to the government is: give the industry seven years to come up with alternatives," said Neemit Punamiya, general secretary of the Plastic Bags Manufacturers Association of India, who attended the meeting. "It cannot happen overnight - we've got investments, we've got loans to pay and people to manage." The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, whose members include online retailers such as Amazon India and Flipkart, said in a June 7 letter to the state government that such a ban "will not be without its own share of adverse environmental impacts which are largely driven by issues associated with the use of alternatives". The Internet and Mobile Association of India, which also counts Amazon and Flipkart as members, said it had asked the state to ease the rules but did not specify what relaxation it was seeking. Beverage makers such as Pepsi and Coca-Cola, meanwhile, want an exemption from the rules as they mandate a buyback of empty bottles at a guaranteed price, which will raise costs, another source familiar with the talks said. Amazon, Flipkart, Pepsi and Coca-Cola did not respond to requests for comment. H&M said in a statement that it supported reusing and recycling, adding that the company had asked the government to clarify the rules and for help coming up with solutions. Maharashtra's environment minister said Wednesday that the government would relax rules for neighbourhood grocery stores allowing them to pack commodities such as rice and pulses in plastic. They would, however, have to ensure buyers return the packaging for recycling. A senior state official told Reuters the government could moderate some aspects of the rule for online retailers as well or give them more time to comply. Another official confirmed that issues raised by the industry was being looked into. Both officials declined to be named as the talks are not public. Enforcing Compliance Maharashtra's plastic ban includes bags, food containers, spoons, forks, glasses and packaging wraps - which the local plastics industry says could cost it up to 150 billion rupees ($2.20 billion) a year and nearly 300,000 jobs. For online retailers, cost is one of the main issues. An e-commerce industry source said that packaging charges comprise about 2 per cent to 3.5 per cent of fulfilment costs - the price of shipping, delivery and compensating sellers for discounts - and that the use of biodegradable plastic or other alternatives could push these costs higher. Cardboard boxes, for example, could cost nearly a third more than plastic packing, according to industry estimates cited by the Economic Times daily. Since the ban came into force, squads of officials in Mumbai have been raiding shops and restaurants, sometimes accompanied by police, to enforce compliance. Violations could result in penalties of up to 25,000 rupees ($362.49) and jail terms of up to three months. Nidhi Choudhari, Mumbai's deputy municipal commissioner, told Reuters it has collected more than 1.3 million rupees in penalties so far. Bharati Chaturvedi, founder of the Chintan environmental advocacy group in New Delhi, said she feared the plastics industry would use any compliance extensions to try to put off the ban indefinitely. "We should really have a hard ban," she said.

Amazon, H&M and other multinationals pressing to soften Maharashtra's plastic ban

As Rajkumar Hirani’s much-awaited film Sanju released today in the country, it is expected to make a record opening on the first day. <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-ahead-of-films-release-sanjay-dutts-cameo-appearance-in-ranbir-kapoors-sanju-leaked-147699">Also read:&nbsp;Ahead of film's release, Sanjay Dutt's cameo appearance in Ranbir Kapoor's 'Sanju' leaked!</a>

If reports are to be believed, the film is expected to earn Rs 20 crore on the first day, June 29. The film pits Ranbir Kapoor as Sanjay Dutt in a biopic on the Bollywood actor who has a tumultuous life with many ups and downs.&nbsp;Ranbir will take us through Sanjay’s different phases -- those that left a lingering effect -- his golden days of stardom to rough phases where he was jailed for illegal possession of weapons.&nbsp;

The film also stars Manisha Koirala, Paresh Rawal, Dia Mirza, Sonam Kapoor, Vicky Kaushal, Jim Sarbh and Anushka Sharma in pivotal roles.&nbsp;

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-alia-bhatt-ranbir-kapoor-spotted-at-sanjay-dutts-house-146033">Also read:&nbsp;Blessings from Sanju? Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor spotted at Sanjay Dutt's house</a>

The trailer of the film created a buzz as it established which actor would portray who in real life in the film. What intrigued the audience the most was whether Ranbir would do justice to Sanjay Dutt and his persona. The film’s trailer and posters released also left us curious with Ranbir’s transformation as he looked eerily similar to Sanjay Dutt in his mannerisms and looks.&nbsp; See <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-watch-ranbir-kapoor-as-munna-bhai-in-new-teaser-for-sanju-will-leave-you-amazed--146328">Munnabhai teaser </a>here.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sanju?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sanju</a> screen count... 
India: 4000 [second highest screen count of 2018, after <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Race3?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Race3</a>] 
Overseas: 1300+ [releasing in more than 65 countries] 
Worldwide total: 5300+ screens 
Note: Widest release of Ranbir Kapoor and director Rajkumar Hirani.
— taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) <a href="https://twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/1012336007742492673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-karishma-tanna-evades-questions-on-playing-madhuri-dixit-in-sanju-says-want-to-do-her-biopic-146950">Also read:&nbsp;Karishma Tanna evades questions on playing Madhuri Dixit in 'Sanju', says 'want to do her biopic'</a>

The film's marketing strategy has been on point with the makers ensuring that it gets record number of screens to release the film -- 4000 across India. This makes it the second-biggest release of 2018. Internationally, it will be released in over 1300 screens in 65 countries. This will be the widest release for any Rajkumar Hirani's film or that for actor Ranbir Kapoor.&nbsp;

In another news, CBFC issued the film its certificate and passed it after asking for a scene cut. Read about the<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-cbfc-cuts-the-controversial-toilet-leak-scene-in-jail-from-sanju--147640"> scene</a> here. The film went through a series of legal troubles when Anushka and Ranbir were issued a <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-sanju-in-legal-trouble-complaint-filed-against-ranbir-kapoor-anushka-sharma-over-derogatory-remarks-147500">legal complaint </a>against them over a dialogue.&nbsp;

Watch out for this space for more information on the film!

'Sanju' is a biopic on Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt

As Rajkumar Hirani’s much-awaited film Sanju released today in the country, it is expected to make a record opening on the first day. Also read: Ahead of film's release, Sanjay Dutt's cameo appearance in Ranbir Kapoor's 'Sanju' leaked! If reports are to be believed, the film is expected to earn Rs 20 crore on the first day, June 29. The film pits Ranbir Kapoor as Sanjay Dutt in a biopic on the Bollywood actor who has a tumultuous life with many ups and downs. Ranbir will take us through Sanjay’s different phases -- those that left a lingering effect -- his golden days of stardom to rough phases where he was jailed for illegal possession of weapons. The film also stars Manisha Koirala, Paresh Rawal, Dia Mirza, Sonam Kapoor, Vicky Kaushal, Jim Sarbh and Anushka Sharma in pivotal roles. Also read: Blessings from Sanju? Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor spotted at Sanjay Dutt's house The trailer of the film created a buzz as it established which actor would portray who in real life in the film. What intrigued the audience the most was whether Ranbir would do justice to Sanjay Dutt and his persona. The film’s trailer and posters released also left us curious with Ranbir’s transformation as he looked eerily similar to Sanjay Dutt in his mannerisms and looks. See Munnabhai teaser here. #Sanju screen count... India: 4000 [second highest screen count of 2018, after #Race3] Overseas: 1300+ [releasing in more than 65 countries] Worldwide total: 5300+ screens Note: Widest release of Ranbir Kapoor and director Rajkumar Hirani. — taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) June 28, 2018 × Also read: Karishma Tanna evades questions on playing Madhuri Dixit in 'Sanju', says 'want to do her biopic' The film's marketing strategy has been on point with the makers ensuring that it gets record number of screens to release the film -- 4000 across India. This makes it the second-biggest release of 2018. Internationally, it will be released in over 1300 screens in 65 countries. This will be the widest release for any Rajkumar Hirani's film or that for actor Ranbir Kapoor. In another news, CBFC issued the film its certificate and passed it after asking for a scene cut. Read about the scene here. The film went through a series of legal troubles when Anushka and Ranbir were issued a legal complaint against them over a dialogue. Watch out for this space for more information on the film!

'Sanju' box office prediction: Ranbir Kapoor starrer expected to earn Rs 20 crore on opening day

Noting that the conviction rate, investigations, prosecutions and convictions in India were "disproportionately low" relative to the scale of human trafficking, the US has continued to place the country in 'Tier 2' of its annual report on the trade of humans.

The US State Department in its annual Trafficking in Persons Report for 2018 urged India to increase prosecutions and convictions for all forms of trafficking, including forced and bonded labour, and of officials allegedly complicit in it.

"The government of India does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking, however, it is making significant efforts to do so. The government demonstrated increasing efforts compared to the previous reporting period, therefore India remained on Tier 2," the department said.

The Department places each country in this report onto one of four tiers, as mandated by The Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 (TVPA) of the US.

Tier 2 suggests that the government of the country does not fully meet the TVPA's minimum standards, but is making significant efforts to bring itself into compliance with those standards.

At the same time, the report said India has demonstrated increasing efforts by nearly tripling the number of victims identified and increasing its budget for shelter programmes for female and child trafficking victims.

It also noted that the government's inter-ministerial committee in 2017 to discuss and revise a draft anti-trafficking bill and India's border guard force along its Nepal border conducted several awareness activities on human trafficking for students and border communities.

"However, the government did not meet the minimum standards in several key areas. Overall victim protection remained inadequate and inconsistent and the government sometimes penalised victims through arrests for crimes committed as a result of being subjected to human trafficking," it said.

As reported over the past five years, the State Department said India is a source, destination, and transit country for men, women and children subjected to forced labour and sex trafficking.

Forced labour constitutes India's largest trafficking problem. Men, women, and children in debt bondage -? sometimes inherited from previous generations -- are forced to work in brick kilns, rice mills, embroidery factories and agriculture, it said.

Most of India's trafficking problem is internal and those from the most disadvantaged social strata -? lowest caste Dalits, members of tribal communities, religious minorities, and women and girls from excluded groups -? are most vulnerable, the report stated.

It added that within India, some are subjected to forced labour in sectors such as construction, steel, garment and textile industries, wire manufacturing for underground cables, biscuit factories, pickling, floriculture, fish farms and ship breaking.

"Workers within India who mine for sand are potentially vulnerable to human trafficking. Thousands of unregulated work placement agencies reportedly lure adults and children under false promises of employment into sex trafficking or forced labour, including domestic servitude," the report said.

Observing that experts estimate millions of women and children are victims of sex trafficking in India, the report said traffickers use false promises of employment or arrange sham marriages within India or Gulf states and subject women and girls to sex trafficking.

"In addition to traditional red light districts, women and children increasingly endure sex trafficking in small hotels, vehicles, huts, and private residences. Traffickers increasingly use websites, mobile applications," the report said.

Since 2011, India has remained on Tier 2 of the State Department reports on human trafficking.

Since 2011, India has remained on Tier 2 of the State Department reports on human trafficking

Noting that the conviction rate, investigations, prosecutions and convictions in India were "disproportionately low" relative to the scale of human trafficking, the US has continued to place the country in 'Tier 2' of its annual report on the trade of humans. The US State Department in its annual Trafficking in Persons Report for 2018 urged India to increase prosecutions and convictions for all forms of trafficking, including forced and bonded labour, and of officials allegedly complicit in it. "The government of India does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking, however, it is making significant efforts to do so. The government demonstrated increasing efforts compared to the previous reporting period, therefore India remained on Tier 2," the department said. The Department places each country in this report onto one of four tiers, as mandated by The Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 (TVPA) of the US. Tier 2 suggests that the government of the country does not fully meet the TVPA's minimum standards, but is making significant efforts to bring itself into compliance with those standards. At the same time, the report said India has demonstrated increasing efforts by nearly tripling the number of victims identified and increasing its budget for shelter programmes for female and child trafficking victims. It also noted that the government's inter-ministerial committee in 2017 to discuss and revise a draft anti-trafficking bill and India's border guard force along its Nepal border conducted several awareness activities on human trafficking for students and border communities. "However, the government did not meet the minimum standards in several key areas. Overall victim protection remained inadequate and inconsistent and the government sometimes penalised victims through arrests for crimes committed as a result of being subjected to human trafficking," it said. As reported over the past five years, the State Department said India is a source, destination, and transit country for men, women and children subjected to forced labour and sex trafficking. Forced labour constitutes India's largest trafficking problem. Men, women, and children in debt bondage -? sometimes inherited from previous generations -- are forced to work in brick kilns, rice mills, embroidery factories and agriculture, it said. Most of India's trafficking problem is internal and those from the most disadvantaged social strata -? lowest caste Dalits, members of tribal communities, religious minorities, and women and girls from excluded groups -? are most vulnerable, the report stated. It added that within India, some are subjected to forced labour in sectors such as construction, steel, garment and textile industries, wire manufacturing for underground cables, biscuit factories, pickling, floriculture, fish farms and ship breaking. "Workers within India who mine for sand are potentially vulnerable to human trafficking. Thousands of unregulated work placement agencies reportedly lure adults and children under false promises of employment into sex trafficking or forced labour, including domestic servitude," the report said. Observing that experts estimate millions of women and children are victims of sex trafficking in India, the report said traffickers use false promises of employment or arrange sham marriages within India or Gulf states and subject women and girls to sex trafficking. "In addition to traditional red light districts, women and children increasingly endure sex trafficking in small hotels, vehicles, huts, and private residences. Traffickers increasingly use websites, mobile applications," the report said. Since 2011, India has remained on Tier 2 of the State Department reports on human trafficking.

Human trafficking: Investigations, convictions in India 'disproportionately' low, says US report

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