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China has announced the visit of its military delegation to India, the first after the Dokalam standoff, as a major follow up to the informal summit in April between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping.

India and China in contact with each other about the visit of Chinese military delegation from Western Theatre Command, China's Defence Spokesman Senior Colonel Ren Guoqiang said here yesterday.

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.

Currently, the two sides are in consultation with each other on the upcoming visit to India by the border defence delegation from the Western Theatre Command of the PLA, Ren was quoted as saying in the transcript of the media briefing posted on the Chinese defence ministry website today.

"These border-related exchanges between the two sides at different levels will help to strengthen the management and control of border areas. They will also help to build trust between the field troops of the two sides and translate the consensus reached by the two heads of state into real actions," he said.

"The two sides are also in contact with each other regarding other cooperation programmes. We will release relevant information in due course," he said in response to a question about cooperation in the fields of defence and security following the Modi-Xi summit meeting at Wuhan on April 28-29.

The two sides had reached an important consensus on practical cooperation and proper management of differences.

After the 73-day military standoff at Dokalam last year, that caused major disruption in relations, both sides made efforts to improve ties leading up to the Wuhan summit.

Ren said China and India are big countries in Asia and both are also each other's important neighbour.

"The Chinese side attaches great importance to the development of the military-to-military relationship with the Indian side," he said.

"Under the guidance of the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, we are willing to work with the Indian side to expand exchanges, strengthen cooperation, build mutual trust, properly manage differences, and facilitate the development of the mil-to-mil relationship in a healthy and stable manner, so as to jointly maintain peace and tranquillity in border areas and safeguard peace and stability in this region," he said.&nbsp

China has announced the visit of its military delegation to India, the first after the Dokalam standoff, as a major follow up to the informal summit in April between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping

China has announced the visit of its military delegation to India, the first after the Dokalam standoff, as a major follow up to the informal summit in April between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping. India and China in contact with each other about the visit of Chinese military delegation from Western Theatre Command, China's Defence Spokesman Senior Colonel Ren Guoqiang said here yesterday. 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. Currently, the two sides are in consultation with each other on the upcoming visit to India by the border defence delegation from the Western Theatre Command of the PLA, Ren was quoted as saying in the transcript of the media briefing posted on the Chinese defence ministry website today. "These border-related exchanges between the two sides at different levels will help to strengthen the management and control of border areas. They will also help to build trust between the field troops of the two sides and translate the consensus reached by the two heads of state into real actions," he said. "The two sides are also in contact with each other regarding other cooperation programmes. We will release relevant information in due course," he said in response to a question about cooperation in the fields of defence and security following the Modi-Xi summit meeting at Wuhan on April 28-29. The two sides had reached an important consensus on practical cooperation and proper management of differences. After the 73-day military standoff at Dokalam last year, that caused major disruption in relations, both sides made efforts to improve ties leading up to the Wuhan summit. Ren said China and India are big countries in Asia and both are also each other's important neighbour. "The Chinese side attaches great importance to the development of the military-to-military relationship with the Indian side," he said. "Under the guidance of the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, we are willing to work with the Indian side to expand exchanges, strengthen cooperation, build mutual trust, properly manage differences, and facilitate the development of the mil-to-mil relationship in a healthy and stable manner, so as to jointly maintain peace and tranquillity in border areas and safeguard peace and stability in this region," he said.

Post-Dokalam, first Chinese military delegation to visit India

Authorities today imposed restrictions in parts of Srinagar as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order in the wake of the death of a youth who was allegedly hit by a security forces vehicle during clashes between protestors and forces.

Curfew and restrictions have been imposed in seven police station areas of the city, a police official said.

He said curfew has been imposed in the Nowhatta area of the city, while restrictions under Section 144 CrPc were in force in Rainawari, Safakadal, Khanyar, MR Gunj, Maisuma and Kralkhud police station areas of Srinagar.

The curbs have been imposed as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order.

The separatists had called a strike across Kashmir today to protest against the recent civilian killings.&nbsp

Most of the shops, fuel stations and other business establishments in Srinagar were shut, while public transport was off the roads, the official said.

However, he said private cars, cabs and auto-rickshaws were seen plying in the areas where there were no restrictions.

Private schools were shut in the city, the official said.

He said similar reports of strike being observed were received from other district headquarters of the Valley.

The authorities have also suspended mobile internet services in Srinagar and Budgam districts while the network speed has been reduced in four districts of south Kashmir.&nbsp

Train services in the Valley have also been suspended for the day.&nbsp

A youth - Kasier Bhat - who was injured after he was allegedly hit by a security forces vehicle during clashes between protestors and forces in the Nowhatta area of the city yesterday, died at a hospital today, police said.

Curfew and restrictions have been imposed in seven police station areas of the city, a police official said

Authorities today imposed restrictions in parts of Srinagar as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order in the wake of the death of a youth who was allegedly hit by a security forces vehicle during clashes between protestors and forces. Curfew and restrictions have been imposed in seven police station areas of the city, a police official said. He said curfew has been imposed in the Nowhatta area of the city, while restrictions under Section 144 CrPc were in force in Rainawari, Safakadal, Khanyar, MR Gunj, Maisuma and Kralkhud police station areas of Srinagar. The curbs have been imposed as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order. The separatists had called a strike across Kashmir today to protest against the recent civilian killings. Most of the shops, fuel stations and other business establishments in Srinagar were shut, while public transport was off the roads, the official said. However, he said private cars, cabs and auto-rickshaws were seen plying in the areas where there were no restrictions. Private schools were shut in the city, the official said. He said similar reports of strike being observed were received from other district headquarters of the Valley. The authorities have also suspended mobile internet services in Srinagar and Budgam districts while the network speed has been reduced in four districts of south Kashmir. Train services in the Valley have also been suspended for the day. A youth - Kasier Bhat - who was injured after he was allegedly hit by a security forces vehicle during clashes between protestors and forces in the Nowhatta area of the city yesterday, died at a hospital today, police said.

Restrictions imposed in parts of Srinagar after youth dies in clash

Only way to sum up Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Southeast Asia is that he showcased his commitment to this region as India's and Asia's joint future. Though he met US Defence Secretary James Mattis, he never let the focus waver from ASEAN. Such was his commitment to ASEAN that it remained central even to his keynote address at the Shangri-La Dialogue.

He even used his RuPay contactless card to pay for a souvenir to buy a $26&nbsp;Madhubani-Mithila style of painting in Singapore.&nbsp;

He also met Defence Secretary James Mattis&nbsp;at Fullerton Hotel on Saturday and discussed India's role in helping to bring about a peaceful, prosperous and open Asia. It was no pull-aside. Mattis called on him.&nbsp;

Former Singapore prime minister Goh Chok Tong said that Modi's personal initiative will create trust among leaders and will play an important role in fostering bilateral and regional goodwill among nations

Both leaders also unveiled a plaque at Clifford Pier where the ashes of India's founding father Mahatma Gandhi were immersed in 1948.

Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated on January 30th by a Hindu fanatic Nathuram Godse and his ashes were placed in several urns and sent across the world and within India.

An urn was also sent to Singapore. Indian Government representative John Thivytook scattered the contents of the urn into the sea from Clifford Pier.

But what made the most emotional moment of the day was rendition of Bapu's favourite song Raghupathi Raghava Raja Ram by 5 Indian origin girls before Narendra Modi and Goh.

Prime Minister Modi also visited Singapore's Botanic Garden where an orchid - the Dendrobium Narendra Modi - was named after him.

Modi also took a tour of Little India. He walked through Jamae Chulia Mosque, the Sri Mariamman Temple and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.&nbsp;

He also visited the Indian Heritage Centre, where he launched a cultural platform, Kala Sangam. The platform will invite 12 traditional craftsmen from India annually from 2018. Modi also visited Singapore's frigate and India's INS Satpura stealth frigate at the Changi Naval Base.

A day earlier, the Ministry of Trade had announced that Singapore and India will reduce remove tariffs on 30 products and improve rules of origin and facilitate mutual recognition of nursing standards of CECA between the two countries.

Tariffs on 30 products are expected to be reduced to the level under the free trade agreement between India and ASEAN.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Modi may have met US Defence Secretary James Mattis over his Singapore trip but he never let the focus waver from ASEAN. Such was his commitment to ASEAN that it remained central even to his keynote address at the Shangri-La Dialogue

Only way to sum up Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Southeast Asia is that he showcased his commitment to this region as India's and Asia's joint future. Though he met US Defence Secretary James Mattis, he never let the focus waver from ASEAN. Such was his commitment to ASEAN that it remained central even to his keynote address at the Shangri-La Dialogue. He even used his RuPay contactless card to pay for a souvenir to buy a $26 Madhubani-Mithila style of painting in Singapore. He also met Defence Secretary James Mattis at Fullerton Hotel on Saturday and discussed India's role in helping to bring about a peaceful, prosperous and open Asia. It was no pull-aside. Mattis called on him. Former Singapore prime minister Goh Chok Tong said that Modi's personal initiative will create trust among leaders and will play an important role in fostering bilateral and regional goodwill among nations Both leaders also unveiled a plaque at Clifford Pier where the ashes of India's founding father Mahatma Gandhi were immersed in 1948. Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated on January 30th by a Hindu fanatic Nathuram Godse and his ashes were placed in several urns and sent across the world and within India. An urn was also sent to Singapore. Indian Government representative John Thivytook scattered the contents of the urn into the sea from Clifford Pier. But what made the most emotional moment of the day was rendition of Bapu's favourite song Raghupathi Raghava Raja Ram by 5 Indian origin girls before Narendra Modi and Goh. Prime Minister Modi also visited Singapore's Botanic Garden where an orchid - the Dendrobium Narendra Modi - was named after him. Modi also took a tour of Little India. He walked through Jamae Chulia Mosque, the Sri Mariamman Temple and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. He also visited the Indian Heritage Centre, where he launched a cultural platform, Kala Sangam. The platform will invite 12 traditional craftsmen from India annually from 2018. Modi also visited Singapore's frigate and India's INS Satpura stealth frigate at the Changi Naval Base. A day earlier, the Ministry of Trade had announced that Singapore and India will reduce remove tariffs on 30 products and improve rules of origin and facilitate mutual recognition of nursing standards of CECA between the two countries. Tariffs on 30 products are expected to be reduced to the level under the free trade agreement between India and ASEAN.

In Singapore, Modi committed himself to Southeast Asia

A youth, who was injured after he was allegedly hit by a security forces vehicle during clashes between protestors and forces here, died at a hospital, police said today.

Kaiser Bhat (21), a resident of the Fatehkadal area of Srinagar, was injured when the security forces vehicle allegedly hit him and another youth during the protests in the Nowhatta area of the city in Jammu and Kashmir on Friday.

Both the injured were taken to the SKIMS hospital at Soura where Bhat succumbed to his injuries.

Bhat succumbed to his injuries at the hospital around midnight, a police official said.

After the Friday prayers culminated at the Jamia Masjid in Nowhatta yesterday, a group of youth started pelting stones on the security forces, the official said.

Few of the protestors attacked a vehicle of the security forces which hit two of them, leaving them injured.&nbsp

Kaiser Bhat (21), a resident of the Fatehkadal area of Srinagar, was injured when the security forces vehicle allegedly hit him and another youth during the protests in the Nowhatta area of the city

A youth, who was injured after he was allegedly hit by a security forces vehicle during clashes between protestors and forces here, died at a hospital, police said today. Kaiser Bhat (21), a resident of the Fatehkadal area of Srinagar, was injured when the security forces vehicle allegedly hit him and another youth during the protests in the Nowhatta area of the city in Jammu and Kashmir on Friday. Both the injured were taken to the SKIMS hospital at Soura where Bhat succumbed to his injuries. Bhat succumbed to his injuries at the hospital around midnight, a police official said. After the Friday prayers culminated at the Jamia Masjid in Nowhatta yesterday, a group of youth started pelting stones on the security forces, the official said. Few of the protestors attacked a vehicle of the security forces which hit two of them, leaving them injured.

J&K youth allegedly injured in clashes between forces and protestors dies

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A grenade attack was lobbed at a CRPF deployment at Badshah Bridge in Srinagar, injuring one jawan.

"A total of six CRPF personals were deployed when the incident took place. The terrorists who were in an auto threw the grenade targeting the rear wheel of the CRPF vehicle. One personnel of 132 Battalion sustained splinter injury on his back and was immediately admitted to a local hospital," an official said.

Earlier in the day, terrorists lobbed a grenade at CRPF 82 Battalion in Fateh Kadal`s Chinkral Mohalla area, injuring three CRPF personnel and one civilian.

The injured are out of danger and their condition is stable.

Earlier the police had claimed that a fourth grenade was hurled by terrorists in&nbsp;Mominabad-Batamaloo area of Srinagar. However, after&nbsp;complete verification, the police confirmed that it was perhaps a tyre blast, not grenade attack by terrorists in the region.

A series of grenade attacks have taken place in the valley in last 10 days.

On May 23, six civilians were injured in the grenade attack at Bijbehara town of Anantnag district.&nbsp;

Two days later, two policemen and a civilian were injured in a similar attack at a bus stand on Jammu's BC road.&nbsp;

Earlier the police had claimed that a fourth grenade was hurled by terrorists in Mominabad-Batamaloo area of Srinagar. However, after complete verification, the police confirmed that it was perhaps a tyre blast, not grenade attack by terrorists in the region

A grenade attack was lobbed at a CRPF deployment at Badshah Bridge in Srinagar, injuring one jawan. "A total of six CRPF personals were deployed when the incident took place. The terrorists who were in an auto threw the grenade targeting the rear wheel of the CRPF vehicle. One personnel of 132 Battalion sustained splinter injury on his back and was immediately admitted to a local hospital," an official said. Earlier in the day, terrorists lobbed a grenade at CRPF 82 Battalion in Fateh Kadal`s Chinkral Mohalla area, injuring three CRPF personnel and one civilian. The injured are out of danger and their condition is stable. Earlier the police had claimed that a fourth grenade was hurled by terrorists in Mominabad-Batamaloo area of Srinagar. However, after complete verification, the police confirmed that it was perhaps a tyre blast, not grenade attack by terrorists in the region. A series of grenade attacks have taken place in the valley in last 10 days. On May 23, six civilians were injured in the grenade attack at Bijbehara town of Anantnag district. Two days later, two policemen and a civilian were injured in a similar attack at a bus stand on Jammu's BC road.

Three grenade attacks on CRPF in J&K

Prices for petrol and diesel were cut by nine paise on Saturday.

In Delhi, petrol now costs Rs 78.20 a litre, and diesel costs Rs 69.11 per litre.

On Friday, price for petrol was Rs 78.29 per litre, while diesel price was Rs 69.20 a litre in the national capital.

The revised petrol prices in other metro cities are - Rs 80.84 in Kolkata, Rs 86.01 in Mumbai and Rs 81.19 in Chennai.

Meanwhile, the revised diesel prices in other metro cities are - Rs 71.66 in Kolkata, Rs 73.58 in Mumbai and 72.97 in Chennai.&nbsp

In Delhi, petrol now costs Rs 78.20 a litre, and diesel costs Rs 69.11 per litre

Prices for petrol and diesel were cut by nine paise on Saturday. In Delhi, petrol now costs Rs 78.20 a litre, and diesel costs Rs 69.11 per litre. On Friday, price for petrol was Rs 78.29 per litre, while diesel price was Rs 69.20 a litre in the national capital. The revised petrol prices in other metro cities are - Rs 80.84 in Kolkata, Rs 86.01 in Mumbai and Rs 81.19 in Chennai. Meanwhile, the revised diesel prices in other metro cities are - Rs 71.66 in Kolkata, Rs 73.58 in Mumbai and 72.97 in Chennai.

Petrol, diesel prices cut by 9 paise per litre

The Union Home Ministry has asked the Government of Jammu and Kashmir to ensure that all necessary measures were taken to restrict the entry of illegal migrants including Rohingyas in the state.

A letter was sent to the State Chief Secretary Bharat Bhushan Vyas, the Joint Secretary of Ministry of Home Affairs Anuj Sharma has asked the state government to " kindly review this matter &nbsp;(of the entry of illegal migrants) and issue instructions to take necessary steps and share updated information in the prescribed form .. as soon as possible..".

The Home Ministry highlighted its serious concern over the Rohingyas and other foreign nationals who have already entered India illegally.

The letter further said, "Such illegal migrations poses serious challenges and has security implications since some of the migrants have been found to have indulged in illegal activities and are vulnerable to radicalisation."

It further states, "It has been brought to the notice of the Government that some of the Rohingyas/foreigners are involved in crimes, anti-national activities, money laundering, procuring fake/fabricated Indian documents and some of them have illegally and fraudulently obtained Indian identity documents e.g. Pan Card, Voter Card, etc."

"Most of these persons have entered India illegally, and many of them have taken (the) help of organised groups of touts and agents," the letter added.

The letter also said that all states have been issued with five instructions from time to time that they need to follow against the illegal immigrants including Rohingyas.

The instructions were as follows: &nbsp;

Restrict them to specified identified locations and their activities/movements be strictly watched by State Police/Intelligence Agencies.

Each one of them must be identified, personal particulars (name, date of birth, sex, place of birth, father/mother names, address in Myanmar/some other country, nationality, etc. may be captured and got signed by such illegal migrant/their guardian.

Biometrics of illegal migrants, including Rohingyas, be captured to ensure unique identification/de-duplication and to prevent impersonation in future. FRO must coordinate with UIDAI to ensure that no Aadhar Card other documents are issued to Rohingya immigrants, which may later help them in claiming to be Indian citizens.

The personal particular forms/identity documents of such Rohingyas/foreigners to be shared with the Government of Myanmar through MEA for their nationality verification, issue of travel documents and repatriation to Myanmar.

Keep a watch on their movement and activities and ensure action for their repatriation/deportation as per Law/Policy/Instructions.

The Union Ministry has issued the letter six months after the Home Minister Rajanath Singh asked all the states to keep hawk eye on the issues.

According to estimates, about 40,000 Rohingyas residing in India.

The government had told the Supreme Court in January that the country could not become the "Refugee Capital of the World".&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

The Home Ministry highlighted its serious concern over the Rohingyas and other foreign nationals who have already entered India illegally

The Union Home Ministry has asked the Government of Jammu and Kashmir to ensure that all necessary measures were taken to restrict the entry of illegal migrants including Rohingyas in the state. A letter was sent to the State Chief Secretary Bharat Bhushan Vyas, the Joint Secretary of Ministry of Home Affairs Anuj Sharma has asked the state government to " kindly review this matter (of the entry of illegal migrants) and issue instructions to take necessary steps and share updated information in the prescribed form .. as soon as possible..". The Home Ministry highlighted its serious concern over the Rohingyas and other foreign nationals who have already entered India illegally. The letter further said, "Such illegal migrations poses serious challenges and has security implications since some of the migrants have been found to have indulged in illegal activities and are vulnerable to radicalisation." It further states, "It has been brought to the notice of the Government that some of the Rohingyas/foreigners are involved in crimes, anti-national activities, money laundering, procuring fake/fabricated Indian documents and some of them have illegally and fraudulently obtained Indian identity documents e.g. Pan Card, Voter Card, etc." "Most of these persons have entered India illegally, and many of them have taken (the) help of organised groups of touts and agents," the letter added. The letter also said that all states have been issued with five instructions from time to time that they need to follow against the illegal immigrants including Rohingyas. The instructions were as follows: Restrict them to specified identified locations and their activities/movements be strictly watched by State Police/Intelligence Agencies. Each one of them must be identified, personal particulars (name, date of birth, sex, place of birth, father/mother names, address in Myanmar/some other country, nationality, etc. may be captured and got signed by such illegal migrant/their guardian. Biometrics of illegal migrants, including Rohingyas, be captured to ensure unique identification/de-duplication and to prevent impersonation in future. FRO must coordinate with UIDAI to ensure that no Aadhar Card other documents are issued to Rohingya immigrants, which may later help them in claiming to be Indian citizens. The personal particular forms/identity documents of such Rohingyas/foreigners to be shared with the Government of Myanmar through MEA for their nationality verification, issue of travel documents and repatriation to Myanmar. Keep a watch on their movement and activities and ensure action for their repatriation/deportation as per Law/Policy/Instructions. The Union Ministry has issued the letter six months after the Home Minister Rajanath Singh asked all the states to keep hawk eye on the issues. According to estimates, about 40,000 Rohingyas residing in India. The government had told the Supreme Court in January that the country could not become the "Refugee Capital of the World". (With inputs from ANI)

Ensure measures to restrict entry of Rohingyas, Centre tells Jammu & Kashmir govt

The Crime Branch of the Mumbai Police on Saturday confirmed that it has arrested at least six persons in connection with betting in Indian Première League (IPL) matches and more arrests are likely to be made in this regard.

IPL betting scandal widens: Actor Arbaaz Khan admits to betting

Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Saturday claimed that terrorism was in its "last stage" in Kashmir and over 600 militants had been killed because of the government's decisive actions on the anti-terrorism front. His remarks come ahead of Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh's expected visit to Jammu and Kashmir next week.

"The decisive actions that the government has taken... 600 militants have been killed during the period, and this is much higher than the number of militants killed during the UPA-I and UPA-II (governments). Terrorism in the Valley is in its last stage," he told reporters here.

Replying to a question on whether the cessation of anti-terror operations be followed by talks with Pakistan and separatists, he said, "The Government of India will take a decision which will be in the interest of the country."

On talks with separatist, the Minister of State (MoS) in the Prime Minister's Office said, "Everybody is welcome to talk. Nobody has said that we are going to send an invitation to the separatists. Anybody (any Indian citizen) is welcome to meet me."

Jitendra Singh said he had met 45 delegations in Jammu and 70-75 in Srinagar. "Nobody has been barred from coming and meeting me," he said. He said Union Minister Rajnath Singh has said that anybody is welcome to meet him.

On Pakistan, he said the neighbouring country has suffered due to the decisive action by India and now the issue of cross-border terrorism will be dealt on the military and diplomatic fronts.

Jitendra Singh said countries that never heard India's point of view on Pakistan and cross-border terrorism in Kashmir, have begun to hear, respond and support the country. On the truce announced before Ramzan, he said it was a "conditional ceasefire and to that extent, the government stands vindicated".

He said that the government has been endeavouring to resolve issues with Pakistan both at the diplomatic and military levels. The Modi government has taken bold decisions such as demonetisation and implementing the GST for the development of the country, the MoS said. He reaffirmed the Centre's commitment to pay special attention to Jammu and Kashmir

"The Central government has taken a number of initiatives to address the problems of border people, including compensation and relief to the victims of Pakistani shelling," said Jitendra Singh.

On the opposition's formula of contesting forthcoming elections against the BJP under the one seat-one joint candidate formula, he said this is an experiment and is being tried by certain groups that tried to come together despite the difference in ideologies.

Replying to a question on the demand for delimitation of assembly seats in Jammu and Kashmir, he said that delimitation is also part of the agenda of alliance (AoA). On the killing of a BJP worker in West Bengal, the MoS alleged there is state-ruled terror unleashed against the BJP in Bengal.

Replying to a question on whether the cessation of anti-terror operations be followed by talks with Pakistan and separatists, he said, "The Government of India will take a decision which will be in the interest of the country."

Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Saturday claimed that terrorism was in its "last stage" in Kashmir and over 600 militants had been killed because of the government's decisive actions on the anti-terrorism front. His remarks come ahead of Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh's expected visit to Jammu and Kashmir next week. "The decisive actions that the government has taken... 600 militants have been killed during the period, and this is much higher than the number of militants killed during the UPA-I and UPA-II (governments). Terrorism in the Valley is in its last stage," he told reporters here. Replying to a question on whether the cessation of anti-terror operations be followed by talks with Pakistan and separatists, he said, "The Government of India will take a decision which will be in the interest of the country." On talks with separatist, the Minister of State (MoS) in the Prime Minister's Office said, "Everybody is welcome to talk. Nobody has said that we are going to send an invitation to the separatists. Anybody (any Indian citizen) is welcome to meet me." Jitendra Singh said he had met 45 delegations in Jammu and 70-75 in Srinagar. "Nobody has been barred from coming and meeting me," he said. He said Union Minister Rajnath Singh has said that anybody is welcome to meet him. On Pakistan, he said the neighbouring country has suffered due to the decisive action by India and now the issue of cross-border terrorism will be dealt on the military and diplomatic fronts. Jitendra Singh said countries that never heard India's point of view on Pakistan and cross-border terrorism in Kashmir, have begun to hear, respond and support the country. On the truce announced before Ramzan, he said it was a "conditional ceasefire and to that extent, the government stands vindicated". He said that the government has been endeavouring to resolve issues with Pakistan both at the diplomatic and military levels. The Modi government has taken bold decisions such as demonetisation and implementing the GST for the development of the country, the MoS said. He reaffirmed the Centre's commitment to pay special attention to Jammu and Kashmir "The Central government has taken a number of initiatives to address the problems of border people, including compensation and relief to the victims of Pakistani shelling," said Jitendra Singh. On the opposition's formula of contesting forthcoming elections against the BJP under the one seat-one joint candidate formula, he said this is an experiment and is being tried by certain groups that tried to come together despite the difference in ideologies. Replying to a question on the demand for delimitation of assembly seats in Jammu and Kashmir, he said that delimitation is also part of the agenda of alliance (AoA). On the killing of a BJP worker in West Bengal, the MoS alleged there is state-ruled terror unleashed against the BJP in Bengal.

Terrorism in its 'last stage' in Kashmir: Union Minister Jitendra Singh

Acting on the Supreme Court's direction, the Centre today constituted a Cauvery Water Management Authority (CMA) to address the dispute over sharing of river water among Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala and Puducherry.

On February 16, the apex court had directed the government to form the CMA within six weeks in a verdict that marginally increased Karnataka's share of Cauvery water, reduced the allocation for Tamil Nadu and sought to settle the protracted water dispute between the two southern states.

In a gazette notification, the Ministry of Water Resources said it has framed a scheme constituting the CMA and the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee to give effect to the decision of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal as modified by the Supreme Court order.

The authority would comprise a chairman, eight members besides a secretary. Out of eight members, two each will be full-time and part-time members, while the rest four would be part-time members from states.

The chairman of the authority should either be a "senior and eminent engineer? with an experience of water resource management and handling of inter-state water dispute or an IAS officer with an experience in water resources management and handling the inter-state dispute.&nbsp

He will have the tenure of five years or until he reaches the age of 65, whichever is earlier.&nbsp

An emotive issue in all the states concerned and Puducherry, the demand to constitute the authority was one of the reasons behind disruption of the Budget Session by the members of the AIADMK who demanded the constitution of the board.

The apex court, in its verdict delivered on February 16, had asked the Centre to frame the Cauvery management scheme, including creation of the Cauvery Management Board.

The scheme would deal with the issue of water share of the four states in different circumstances like normal and deficient water years in the Cauvery river basin.

It had raised the 270 tmcft share of Cauvery water for Karnataka by 14.75 tmcft and reduced Tamil Nadu's share, while compensating it by allowing extraction of 10 tmcft groundwater from the river basin, saying the issue of drinking water has to be placed on a "higher pedestal".&nbsp

The authority will exercise power and discharge such duty for "sufficient and expedient for securing compliance and implementation" of the Supreme Court order in relation to "storage, apportionment, regulation and control of Cauvery waters".

"If the authority finds that any government of the party states, namely Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Union territory of Puducherry do not cooperate in implementing the decision or direction of the tribunal, it can seek the help of the central government for implementation of the award...," the notification said.

Further, if any delay or shortfall is caused in release of water on account of default of any party state, the authority will take appropriate action.

The authority will also supervise operation of reservoirs and with regulation of water releases therefrom with the assistance of regulation committee, the notification said.

The authority will also look at regulated release of water by Karnataka, at the inter-state contact point presently identified as Billigundulu gauge and discharge station, located on the common border of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

The notification further said that the authority at the beginning of the water year (June 1 each year) would determine the total residual storage in the specified reservoirs.&nbsp

"As, it is not possible to know the amount of season-wise river flows which will be available during a season, it will be assumed that the inflows will be according to 50 per cent dependable year (yield 740 TMC)," it said.

The share of each state will be determined on the basis of the flows so assumed together with the available carry-over storage in the reservoirs.&nbsp

"The withdrawals will be allowed during the first time interval of ten days of the season on the basis of the share worked out for each party state, limited to the water requirements during the same period indicated by each party state by placing an indent of water demand with Cauvery Water Regulation Committee," it added.

The authority has also been tasked to advise the states to take suitable measures to improve water use efficiency, by way of promoting micro-irrigation (drip and sprinkler), change in cropping pattern, improved agronomic practices, system deficiency correction and command area development.

It has to also prepare an annual report covering the activities of the authority for the preceding year.&nbsp

The Centre will initially contribute a sum of Rs 2 crore for the functioning of the authority.

Also, the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee has to meet once in 10 days during the months of June and October when the south-west and north-east monsoon set in and again after the monsoon has set in.

Acting on the Supreme Court's direction, the Centre today constituted a Cauvery Water Management Authority (CMA) to address the dispute over sharing of river water among Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala and Puducherry

Acting on the Supreme Court's direction, the Centre today constituted a Cauvery Water Management Authority (CMA) to address the dispute over sharing of river water among Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala and Puducherry. On February 16, the apex court had directed the government to form the CMA within six weeks in a verdict that marginally increased Karnataka's share of Cauvery water, reduced the allocation for Tamil Nadu and sought to settle the protracted water dispute between the two southern states. In a gazette notification, the Ministry of Water Resources said it has framed a scheme constituting the CMA and the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee to give effect to the decision of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal as modified by the Supreme Court order. The authority would comprise a chairman, eight members besides a secretary. Out of eight members, two each will be full-time and part-time members, while the rest four would be part-time members from states. The chairman of the authority should either be a "senior and eminent engineer? with an experience of water resource management and handling of inter-state water dispute or an IAS officer with an experience in water resources management and handling the inter-state dispute. He will have the tenure of five years or until he reaches the age of 65, whichever is earlier. An emotive issue in all the states concerned and Puducherry, the demand to constitute the authority was one of the reasons behind disruption of the Budget Session by the members of the AIADMK who demanded the constitution of the board. The apex court, in its verdict delivered on February 16, had asked the Centre to frame the Cauvery management scheme, including creation of the Cauvery Management Board. The scheme would deal with the issue of water share of the four states in different circumstances like normal and deficient water years in the Cauvery river basin. It had raised the 270 tmcft share of Cauvery water for Karnataka by 14.75 tmcft and reduced Tamil Nadu's share, while compensating it by allowing extraction of 10 tmcft groundwater from the river basin, saying the issue of drinking water has to be placed on a "higher pedestal". The authority will exercise power and discharge such duty for "sufficient and expedient for securing compliance and implementation" of the Supreme Court order in relation to "storage, apportionment, regulation and control of Cauvery waters". "If the authority finds that any government of the party states, namely Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Union territory of Puducherry do not cooperate in implementing the decision or direction of the tribunal, it can seek the help of the central government for implementation of the award...," the notification said. Further, if any delay or shortfall is caused in release of water on account of default of any party state, the authority will take appropriate action. The authority will also supervise operation of reservoirs and with regulation of water releases therefrom with the assistance of regulation committee, the notification said. The authority will also look at regulated release of water by Karnataka, at the inter-state contact point presently identified as Billigundulu gauge and discharge station, located on the common border of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The notification further said that the authority at the beginning of the water year (June 1 each year) would determine the total residual storage in the specified reservoirs. "As, it is not possible to know the amount of season-wise river flows which will be available during a season, it will be assumed that the inflows will be according to 50 per cent dependable year (yield 740 TMC)," it said. The share of each state will be determined on the basis of the flows so assumed together with the available carry-over storage in the reservoirs. "The withdrawals will be allowed during the first time interval of ten days of the season on the basis of the share worked out for each party state, limited to the water requirements during the same period indicated by each party state by placing an indent of water demand with Cauvery Water Regulation Committee," it added. The authority has also been tasked to advise the states to take suitable measures to improve water use efficiency, by way of promoting micro-irrigation (drip and sprinkler), change in cropping pattern, improved agronomic practices, system deficiency correction and command area development. It has to also prepare an annual report covering the activities of the authority for the preceding year. The Centre will initially contribute a sum of Rs 2 crore for the functioning of the authority. Also, the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee has to meet once in 10 days during the months of June and October when the south-west and north-east monsoon set in and again after the monsoon has set in.

Centre forms Cauvery Water Management Authority

As former Uttar Pradesh chief ministers begin vacating their bungalows in Lucknow following a Supreme Court order last month, Rajasthan also awaits a court order on the same issue.

The Rajasthan High Court will hear a case on July 12 that challenges provisions of a law that entitles former chief ministers to free housing and other perks. The Bill for this was passed in the assembly in April last year by voice vote, with the only rebel BJP leader Ghanshyam Tiwari dissenting.

It added a new section to the Rajasthan Ministers' Salaries Act, 1956.

Mr Tiwari has been demanding that Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje should vacate a plush bungalow at 13, Civil Lines which was allotted to her as a former chief minister and shift to the CM's official residence at 8, Civil Lines.

Jaipur-based journalist Milap Chand Dandia had filed a public interest litigation against the new section in the Rajasthan law, notified in May last year.

"The SC has already decided on the issue and I am hopeful that the high court will also quash the new section, which is unconstitutional and invalid," Mr Dandia said.

Former chief minister and Congress MLA from Jodhpur Ashok Gehlot indicated his willingness to give up the bungalow, as soon the Supreme Court pronounced its verdict on the Uttar Pradesh law.

"We had written to the General Administration Department on May 7 itself seeking appropriate direction pertaining to the residence," Mr Gehlot's private secretary Devaram Saini said. 
Following the Supreme Court order, the Uttar Pradesh government had served notices to six politicians who had been allotted official bungalows in Lucknow as former chief ministers.

While Bahujan Samaj Party leader Mayawati and ailing Congress veteran Narayan Dutt Tiwari have expressed reluctance to move out, the others appear set to meet the weekend deadline. 
&nbsp

As former Uttar Pradesh chief ministers begin vacating their bungalows in Lucknow following a Supreme Court order last month, Rajasthan also awaits a court order on the same issue

As former Uttar Pradesh chief ministers begin vacating their bungalows in Lucknow following a Supreme Court order last month, Rajasthan also awaits a court order on the same issue. The Rajasthan High Court will hear a case on July 12 that challenges provisions of a law that entitles former chief ministers to free housing and other perks. The Bill for this was passed in the assembly in April last year by voice vote, with the only rebel BJP leader Ghanshyam Tiwari dissenting. It added a new section to the Rajasthan Ministers' Salaries Act, 1956. Mr Tiwari has been demanding that Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje should vacate a plush bungalow at 13, Civil Lines which was allotted to her as a former chief minister and shift to the CM's official residence at 8, Civil Lines. Jaipur-based journalist Milap Chand Dandia had filed a public interest litigation against the new section in the Rajasthan law, notified in May last year. "The SC has already decided on the issue and I am hopeful that the high court will also quash the new section, which is unconstitutional and invalid," Mr Dandia said. Former chief minister and Congress MLA from Jodhpur Ashok Gehlot indicated his willingness to give up the bungalow, as soon the Supreme Court pronounced its verdict on the Uttar Pradesh law. "We had written to the General Administration Department on May 7 itself seeking appropriate direction pertaining to the residence," Mr Gehlot's private secretary Devaram Saini said. Following the Supreme Court order, the Uttar Pradesh government had served notices to six politicians who had been allotted official bungalows in Lucknow as former chief ministers. While Bahujan Samaj Party leader Mayawati and ailing Congress veteran Narayan Dutt Tiwari have expressed reluctance to move out, the others appear set to meet the weekend deadline.

Rajasthan awaits court order on bungalows for ex-chief ministers

A petitioner who sought that the disputed Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri masjid site at Ayodhya be declared a national heritage was today asked by the Delhi High Court to file a representation in this regard before the Centre.

A bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Justice C Hari Shankar did not issue notice on the PIL and instead asked petitioner advocate Anu Mehta to make a representation before the Union Ministry of Culture in this regard.

The bench said that the Centre may consider the representation and take a decision within three months.&nbsp

The PIL has sought a direction to the government to notify and acquire the disputed site and the monument under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act and declare it as the national heritage.

It further sought a direction to the Centre to preserve and protect the site, take necessary action "to preserve the monuments -- the ancient temple as well as the mosque -- independently".

"If there was a requirement to separate the superstructure from the original structure, i.E., the entire monument at the site, the sanctity of both monuments should be maintained," the plea said.

It said that the disputed site was of archaeological importance and had "ancient monuments, antique artefacts and antiques which constitute our national heritage".

"As per the Act, duty is cast upon the State to preserve ancient monuments and sites and accordingly the said site/monument ought to be accorded place and status of national importance, acquired from private owners and preserved by the state for sake of historical and cultural preservation of the country," the plea said.

A petitioner who sought that the disputed Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri masjid site at Ayodhya be declared a national heritage was today asked by the Delhi High Court to file a representation in this regard before the Centre

A petitioner who sought that the disputed Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri masjid site at Ayodhya be declared a national heritage was today asked by the Delhi High Court to file a representation in this regard before the Centre. A bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Justice C Hari Shankar did not issue notice on the PIL and instead asked petitioner advocate Anu Mehta to make a representation before the Union Ministry of Culture in this regard. The bench said that the Centre may consider the representation and take a decision within three months. The PIL has sought a direction to the government to notify and acquire the disputed site and the monument under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act and declare it as the national heritage. It further sought a direction to the Centre to preserve and protect the site, take necessary action "to preserve the monuments -- the ancient temple as well as the mosque -- independently". "If there was a requirement to separate the superstructure from the original structure, i.E., the entire monument at the site, the sanctity of both monuments should be maintained," the plea said. It said that the disputed site was of archaeological importance and had "ancient monuments, antique artefacts and antiques which constitute our national heritage". "As per the Act, duty is cast upon the State to preserve ancient monuments and sites and accordingly the said site/monument ought to be accorded place and status of national importance, acquired from private owners and preserved by the state for sake of historical and cultural preservation of the country," the plea said.

Plea for declaration of disputed area in Ayodhya as national heritage

A Japanese woman was allegedly raped by a taxi driver in Himachal Pradesh's Kullu on Friday.

The police has registered a case and arrested a person based on clues given by the woman.

"Case has been registered and one person also arrested. Victim has been sent for the medical test," said Superintendent of Police, Kullu, Shalini Agnihotri.

"According to the victim the accused is a taxi driver. Further investigation underway," she added.

Her medical test reports are awaited.

The police has registered a case and arrested a person based on clues given by the woman

A Japanese woman was allegedly raped by a taxi driver in Himachal Pradesh's Kullu on Friday. The police has registered a case and arrested a person based on clues given by the woman. "Case has been registered and one person also arrested. Victim has been sent for the medical test," said Superintendent of Police, Kullu, Shalini Agnihotri. "According to the victim the accused is a taxi driver. Further investigation underway," she added. Her medical test reports are awaited.

Japanese woman allegedly raped in Himachal Pradesh's Kullu

The Patiala House Court will on Saturday hear the arguments to decide the quantum of punishment to gangster Abu Salem in an extortion case.

On May 30, the Delhi Court had deferred the hearing of gangster Abu Salem's extortion case till June 2.

Salem was convicted for demanding Rs 5 crore from a Delhi-based businessman Ashok Gupta in 2002 in lieu of providing security to the latter also known as protection money.

Charges were imposed against Salem under 387,506/507 Sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Chanchal Mehta, Majid Khan, Pawan Kumar Mittal and Mohd Ashraf, who were identified as Salem's compliance in the case, were acquitted in the case.

While another accused Sajjan Kumar Soni died during the course of the trial.&nbsp;

On May 30, the Delhi Court had deferred the hearing of gangster Abu Salem's extortion case till June 2

The Patiala House Court will on Saturday hear the arguments to decide the quantum of punishment to gangster Abu Salem in an extortion case. On May 30, the Delhi Court had deferred the hearing of gangster Abu Salem's extortion case till June 2. Salem was convicted for demanding Rs 5 crore from a Delhi-based businessman Ashok Gupta in 2002 in lieu of providing security to the latter also known as protection money. Charges were imposed against Salem under 387,506/507 Sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Chanchal Mehta, Majid Khan, Pawan Kumar Mittal and Mohd Ashraf, who were identified as Salem's compliance in the case, were acquitted in the case. While another accused Sajjan Kumar Soni died during the course of the trial.

Gangster Abu Salem extortion case: Quantum of punishment likely today

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday met U.S. Defence Secretary Jim Mattis in Singapore, days after the Pentagon renamed its Pacific Command as Indo-Pacific Command in a largely symbolic move to signal India’s importance to the US military.

Mr Modi, who is here on the last leg of his three-nation tour, held a closed-door meeting with Mr. Mattis during which both sides discussed all security related issues of mutual and global interests, sources said.

The meeting was held on the sidelines of the annual Shangri-La Dialogue which was addressed by the Prime Minister last night. In his keynote address at the Dialogue, Mr. Modi had said an “Asia of rivalry” will hold the region back while an Asia of cooperation will shape the current century. Asia and the world will have a better future when India and China work together with trust and confidence while being sensitive to each other’s interests, he had said.

“We should all have equal access as a right under international law to the use of common spaces on sea and in the air that would require freedom of navigation, unimpeded commerce and peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law,” he had said.

Mr Mattis also addressed the dialogue where he stressed upon freedom for all and “reaffirmation for rule based order”. The meeting between the two leaders assumes significance as in his address Mr. Mattis has stressed upon both countries working together and with other nations for ensuring peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region. “It is only appropriate that waterways remain open for all nations,” he said.

The meeting comes days after the U.S. renamed its oldest and largest military command - the Pacific Command - to Indo-Pacific Command, amid heightened tensions with China over the militarisation of the South China Sea. The U.S. move came in the wake of a series of measures by China that have raised tensions in the South China Sea. China claims almost all of the South China Sea. Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims over the area. The U.S. also rejects China’s claims of ownership of the area. The Pentagon’s move is also reflective of the growing importance of India in U.S. strategic thinking.

India was granted the ‘Major Defence Partner’ status by the previous Barack Obama Administration, providing for transfer of technology and deeper cooperation in the defence sector. In 2016, India and the U.S. had signed a crucial logistics defence pact enabling their militaries to use each other’s assets and bases for repair and replenishment of supplies, making joint operations more efficient. Soon after coming to power, the Trump administration had renamed Asia Pacific as Indo-Pacific and identified India as one bookend of the region.

On last day of his three-day visit to Singapore on Saturday, Prime Minister Modi met US Defence Secretary Jim Mattis.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday met U.S. Defence Secretary Jim Mattis in Singapore, days after the Pentagon renamed its Pacific Command as Indo-Pacific Command in a largely symbolic move to signal India’s importance to the US military. Mr Modi, who is here on the last leg of his three-nation tour, held a closed-door meeting with Mr. Mattis during which both sides discussed all security related issues of mutual and global interests, sources said. The meeting was held on the sidelines of the annual Shangri-La Dialogue which was addressed by the Prime Minister last night. In his keynote address at the Dialogue, Mr. Modi had said an “Asia of rivalry” will hold the region back while an Asia of cooperation will shape the current century. Asia and the world will have a better future when India and China work together with trust and confidence while being sensitive to each other’s interests, he had said. “We should all have equal access as a right under international law to the use of common spaces on sea and in the air that would require freedom of navigation, unimpeded commerce and peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law,” he had said. Mr Mattis also addressed the dialogue where he stressed upon freedom for all and “reaffirmation for rule based order”. The meeting between the two leaders assumes significance as in his address Mr. Mattis has stressed upon both countries working together and with other nations for ensuring peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region. “It is only appropriate that waterways remain open for all nations,” he said. The meeting comes days after the U.S. renamed its oldest and largest military command - the Pacific Command - to Indo-Pacific Command, amid heightened tensions with China over the militarisation of the South China Sea. The U.S. move came in the wake of a series of measures by China that have raised tensions in the South China Sea. China claims almost all of the South China Sea. Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims over the area. The U.S. also rejects China’s claims of ownership of the area. The Pentagon’s move is also reflective of the growing importance of India in U.S. strategic thinking. India was granted the ‘Major Defence Partner’ status by the previous Barack Obama Administration, providing for transfer of technology and deeper cooperation in the defence sector. In 2016, India and the U.S. had signed a crucial logistics defence pact enabling their militaries to use each other’s assets and bases for repair and replenishment of supplies, making joint operations more efficient. Soon after coming to power, the Trump administration had renamed Asia Pacific as Indo-Pacific and identified India as one bookend of the region.

In a boost to Indo-US strategic ties, PM Narendra Modi meets US Defence Secretary Jim Mattis in Singapore

Zee Media Corporation Limited (ZMC) has sent legal notice for defamation to online website Cobrapost over their so called sting- 'Operation 136'. The sting claims that many organisations are willing to take money to promote pro-Hindutva content. Strongly reacting to the sting done by 'journalist' Pushp Sharma, ZMCL has sent legal notice to not only him but also Cobrapost editor and founder Aniruddha Bahal.&nbsp;

In the notice, ZMCL has panned the sting operation as ' nothing but a planned conspiracy and set of self servicing false, fabricated and baseless piece of writing, which in itself is based on tampered, doctored and edited videos'. It says the sting 'Operation Rashtravaad' aired on Zee Hindusthan exposes the malafide intent of the journalist Push Sharma and it potrays the actual facts and conversations when he approached Zee officials with his alias of Acharya Atal.&nbsp;

Alongside Cobrapost, ZMCL has also sent notices to 'The Wire', 'The Quint' and 'Bhadas4Media' - for carrying out news related to the so called sting in their website.&nbsp;

In the notice to Cobrapost, Zee Group has asked for the articles to be removed, to be tendered an unconditional apology, an assurance that the articles won't be recirculated in any form and assurance that no defamatory content is spread against it. Failing which, ZMCL will be filing for both civil and criminal suits, claims the legal notice.&nbsp;

The notice sent to 'The Wire' is about two articles written by them post publication of Cobrapost sting. The notice say, "The deliberate manner in which you the Noticees have carried out the story in question by publishing the impugned articles makes it abundantly clear that you the Noticees have failed to act as per the principles of journalistic ethics and have only exhibited your biased and prejudiced mindset against our client for ulterior motives".&nbsp;

"It appears that the impugned articles containing defamatory contents have been electronically published by you the Noticees with the specific knowledge and intention to defame our client, by making totally malicious, false, incorrect and defamatory allegations against our client," the notice says. "As a neutral media house, you were expected to ponder upon the legitimacy of such alleged sting operations as claimed to be genuine by said Mr Pushp Sharma, who had a tainted track record".&nbsp;

The notice says that 'The Wire' merely reproduced allegations levelled by Cobrapost without due dilligence. ZMCL has asked for the articles to be pulled down and an unconditional apology failing which both civil and criminal defamation cases would be filed.&nbsp;

The notice to 'The Quint' mentions two articles which are related to the Cobrapost story. It says, " The false and baseless averments, suggestions and imputations are result of incorrect and grossly irresponsible reporting and aparent malafide'. &nbsp;It further says the fact that no mention of Zee's sting 'Operation Rashtravaad' is there on the Quint's website shows 'your agenda driven journalism and discloses your apparent mala-fide intentions'. The legal notice highlights the fact that The Quint didn't try to verify Cobrapost's claims and didn't took cognizance of the tainted past of the journalist Pushp Sharma. Quint too has been asked to retract the story and apologise in next 48 hours, failing which ZMCL will file cases of civil and criminal defamation.&nbsp;

The notice to Bhadas4Media is along similar lines. It highlights an article posted on the website. The notice says despite clarification given, the website chose to publish manipulative and slanderous Impugned articles. It also says the website was aware of Zee's sting and yet chose to glorify Cobrapost videos done by a man with questionable past. Bhadas4Media has been given 48 hours to unpublish the articles and give an apology, failing which civil and criminal defamation suits may be filed against them.&nbsp;

In 'Operation 136', Pushp Sharma masquerading as Acharya Atal reaches out to media houses and offers them money to run pro- Hindutva content. But look at the videos closely and they reek of convenient editing to tarnish the reputation of many mainstream media houses.

The cornerstone of any journalistic exercise is credibility. But what can be said of a so-called sting done by a journalist, who has very little to show for this basic virtue of journalism? Pushp Sharma who conducted this farcical Operation 136 to 'expose' media organisations has a controversial past, to say the least.

He has two criminal cases lodged against him that are ongoing. One of them is about carrying out alleged fake sting operations in 2009 and other about fabricating RTI responses from the AYUSH Ministry in 2016. For these, Sharma was arrested twice by Delhi Police, according to reports published in The Times of India and The Print. The trial is yet to start in both the cases.

According to media reports, Pushp Sharma and his accomplice Pankaj Kumar used to fake road accidents to trap unsuspecting policemen. Once the police officer arrived, they’d pretend to reach a compromise, following which they’d ask the police officer at the scene to hand them change for Rs 500 and Rs 1000. The officer, who didn’t know he was being filmed would hand over the change. This footage was used to later blackmail the police officer. However, according to reports, Sharma and Kumar soon ran out of luck when Delhi Police managed to set a similar trap against them. &nbsp;

On October 21, 2009, two police officers from Vasant Vihar PS were asked to report at an 'accident' scene near IIT Delhi. Pushp and his accomplice tried the same modus operandi with the two police officers - Head Constable (HC) Rishi Rose and Ct. Satish. Rose gave Pushp Sharma change for Rs 500 to settle the matter with 'victim' Kumar. This video was recorded, and later Pushp Sharma called up HC Rose demanding money. Officer Rose then brought the matter to the notice of his seniors who promptly busted the racket on 17 November 2009, when Sharma was caught receiving Rs 10,000 from constable Rose. The case, according to a report in the Times of India, is currently pending trial at Delhi’s Patiala House Court. Cut to 2016, and Pushp Sharma again attracted controversy with his allegation that the AYUSH ministry was discriminating against Muslims while hiring yoga trainers. He cited an RTI reply in his report which was fake according to the Ministry. The AYUSH ministry lodged a formal complaint against Pushp Sharma for filing a 'fake' RTI and the journalist was booked on multiple charges.

The other websites Zee Media has sent notices to include The Wire, The Quint, and Bhadas4Media

Zee Media Corporation Limited (ZMC) has sent legal notice for defamation to online website Cobrapost over their so called sting- 'Operation 136'. The sting claims that many organisations are willing to take money to promote pro-Hindutva content. Strongly reacting to the sting done by 'journalist' Pushp Sharma, ZMCL has sent legal notice to not only him but also Cobrapost editor and founder Aniruddha Bahal. In the notice, ZMCL has panned the sting operation as ' nothing but a planned conspiracy and set of self servicing false, fabricated and baseless piece of writing, which in itself is based on tampered, doctored and edited videos'. It says the sting 'Operation Rashtravaad' aired on Zee Hindusthan exposes the malafide intent of the journalist Push Sharma and it potrays the actual facts and conversations when he approached Zee officials with his alias of Acharya Atal. Alongside Cobrapost, ZMCL has also sent notices to 'The Wire', 'The Quint' and 'Bhadas4Media' - for carrying out news related to the so called sting in their website. In the notice to Cobrapost, Zee Group has asked for the articles to be removed, to be tendered an unconditional apology, an assurance that the articles won't be recirculated in any form and assurance that no defamatory content is spread against it. Failing which, ZMCL will be filing for both civil and criminal suits, claims the legal notice. The notice sent to 'The Wire' is about two articles written by them post publication of Cobrapost sting. The notice say, "The deliberate manner in which you the Noticees have carried out the story in question by publishing the impugned articles makes it abundantly clear that you the Noticees have failed to act as per the principles of journalistic ethics and have only exhibited your biased and prejudiced mindset against our client for ulterior motives". "It appears that the impugned articles containing defamatory contents have been electronically published by you the Noticees with the specific knowledge and intention to defame our client, by making totally malicious, false, incorrect and defamatory allegations against our client," the notice says. "As a neutral media house, you were expected to ponder upon the legitimacy of such alleged sting operations as claimed to be genuine by said Mr Pushp Sharma, who had a tainted track record". The notice says that 'The Wire' merely reproduced allegations levelled by Cobrapost without due dilligence. ZMCL has asked for the articles to be pulled down and an unconditional apology failing which both civil and criminal defamation cases would be filed. The notice to 'The Quint' mentions two articles which are related to the Cobrapost story. It says, " The false and baseless averments, suggestions and imputations are result of incorrect and grossly irresponsible reporting and aparent malafide'. It further says the fact that no mention of Zee's sting 'Operation Rashtravaad' is there on the Quint's website shows 'your agenda driven journalism and discloses your apparent mala-fide intentions'. The legal notice highlights the fact that The Quint didn't try to verify Cobrapost's claims and didn't took cognizance of the tainted past of the journalist Pushp Sharma. Quint too has been asked to retract the story and apologise in next 48 hours, failing which ZMCL will file cases of civil and criminal defamation. The notice to Bhadas4Media is along similar lines. It highlights an article posted on the website. The notice says despite clarification given, the website chose to publish manipulative and slanderous Impugned articles. It also says the website was aware of Zee's sting and yet chose to glorify Cobrapost videos done by a man with questionable past. Bhadas4Media has been given 48 hours to unpublish the articles and give an apology, failing which civil and criminal defamation suits may be filed against them. In 'Operation 136', Pushp Sharma masquerading as Acharya Atal reaches out to media houses and offers them money to run pro- Hindutva content. But look at the videos closely and they reek of convenient editing to tarnish the reputation of many mainstream media houses. The cornerstone of any journalistic exercise is credibility. But what can be said of a so-called sting done by a journalist, who has very little to show for this basic virtue of journalism? Pushp Sharma who conducted this farcical Operation 136 to 'expose' media organisations has a controversial past, to say the least. He has two criminal cases lodged against him that are ongoing. One of them is about carrying out alleged fake sting operations in 2009 and other about fabricating RTI responses from the AYUSH Ministry in 2016. For these, Sharma was arrested twice by Delhi Police, according to reports published in The Times of India and The Print. The trial is yet to start in both the cases. According to media reports, Pushp Sharma and his accomplice Pankaj Kumar used to fake road accidents to trap unsuspecting policemen. Once the police officer arrived, they’d pretend to reach a compromise, following which they’d ask the police officer at the scene to hand them change for Rs 500 and Rs 1000. The officer, who didn’t know he was being filmed would hand over the change. This footage was used to later blackmail the police officer. However, according to reports, Sharma and Kumar soon ran out of luck when Delhi Police managed to set a similar trap against them. On October 21, 2009, two police officers from Vasant Vihar PS were asked to report at an 'accident' scene near IIT Delhi. Pushp and his accomplice tried the same modus operandi with the two police officers - Head Constable (HC) Rishi Rose and Ct. Satish. Rose gave Pushp Sharma change for Rs 500 to settle the matter with 'victim' Kumar. This video was recorded, and later Pushp Sharma called up HC Rose demanding money. Officer Rose then brought the matter to the notice of his seniors who promptly busted the racket on 17 November 2009, when Sharma was caught receiving Rs 10,000 from constable Rose. The case, according to a report in the Times of India, is currently pending trial at Delhi’s Patiala House Court. Cut to 2016, and Pushp Sharma again attracted controversy with his allegation that the AYUSH ministry was discriminating against Muslims while hiring yoga trainers. He cited an RTI reply in his report which was fake according to the Ministry. The AYUSH ministry lodged a formal complaint against Pushp Sharma for filing a 'fake' RTI and the journalist was booked on multiple charges.

Zee Media sends legal notice of defamation to Cobrapost, 3 other news websites

Curfew continued in parts of Shillong for the second day on Saturday as the Army conducted flag marches in disturbed areas and rescued several people following night-long violence and arson during which a mob torched a shop, a house and damaged at least five vehicles in Shillong, besides injuring a senior police officer, officials said.

The Army was requisitioned by the state government to conduct flag march in the affected areas. Army troops conducted the flag march and rescued about 500 people, including 200 women and children, Defence spokesperson Ratnakar Singh said.

He added that the rescued civilians were given food and water and have been sheltered at the Army cantonment in Shillong.

General Officer Commanding 101 Area Lt Gen D S Ahuja visited the affected people at the Army cantonment.

Superintendent of Police (City) Stephan Rynjah sustained injuries last night after he was hit by a rod. He has been admitted to the Shillong Civil Hospital, a senior police officer said.

At least 10 persons, including policemen, have been injured in the violence, which has triggered demands that the government take action against alleged illegal settlers in the area.

State police personnel were attacked by stone pelters in the Motphran area of the city.

Teargas shells were used to disperse rioters but people in other parts of the city mistook them for police firing, the officer said.

The clashes had begun after a bus handyman was allegedly assaulted by a group of residents of Them Metor area on Thursday afternoon.

Trouble escalated when rumours spread on social media that the handyman had succumbed to injuries, prompting a group of bus drivers to converge at Them Metor. The police had to fire teargas shells to disperse them, officials said.

The handyman and three injured persons were taken to a hospital where they were released after being administered first aid.

The East Khasi Hills district authorities had imposed night curfew in the entire city from 10 pm till 5 am to maintain peace and prevent arson, they said.

Four persons, accused of being involved in the assault of three local boys, have been arrested, they said. As many as 11 persons have been picked up in connection with the case so far.

Meanwhile, suspension of Internet services has been extended by 24 hours till tomorrow afternoon to prevent rumour-mongering.

The Home Department will review the overall situation later.

The curfew, which was imposed since 4 am yesterday in at least 14 localities under Lumdiengjri police station and Cantonment Beat House, continues, District deputy commissioner P S Dkhar said.

He said that there was no curfew in Police Bazaar and Iew Duh (Bara Bazaar) areas even as shops, schools and banks in these areas remained closed.

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, who chaired a high-level meeting yesterday, had appealed for calm and urged the people to help bring back normalcy in Shillong.

Meanwhile, several groups including the Khasi Students Union (KSU), the Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP) and the Hynniewtrep Youth Council demanded that those involved in the assault of local boys be punished and the illegal settlers at Them Metor evicted.

"We demand that the government arrest those involved in the assault of the sons and nephew of the bus driver. The government should also compensate the three victims," KSU president Lambok Marngar said

The KSU leader also said that the government should evict illegal settlers at Them Metor which is adjacent to IewDuh.

"Them Metor has become a den for anti-nationals and it is sad that several governments in the past have not taken initiatives to evict them and provide them space somewhere else," said FKJGP president Wellbirth Rani.&nbsp

Curfew continued in parts of Shillong for the second day on Saturday as the Army conducted flag marches in disturbed areas and rescued several people following night-long violence and arson during which a mob torched a shop, a house and damaged at least five vehicles in Shillong, besides injuring a senior police officer

Curfew continued in parts of Shillong for the second day on Saturday as the Army conducted flag marches in disturbed areas and rescued several people following night-long violence and arson during which a mob torched a shop, a house and damaged at least five vehicles in Shillong, besides injuring a senior police officer, officials said. The Army was requisitioned by the state government to conduct flag march in the affected areas. Army troops conducted the flag march and rescued about 500 people, including 200 women and children, Defence spokesperson Ratnakar Singh said. He added that the rescued civilians were given food and water and have been sheltered at the Army cantonment in Shillong. General Officer Commanding 101 Area Lt Gen D S Ahuja visited the affected people at the Army cantonment. Superintendent of Police (City) Stephan Rynjah sustained injuries last night after he was hit by a rod. He has been admitted to the Shillong Civil Hospital, a senior police officer said. At least 10 persons, including policemen, have been injured in the violence, which has triggered demands that the government take action against alleged illegal settlers in the area. State police personnel were attacked by stone pelters in the Motphran area of the city. Teargas shells were used to disperse rioters but people in other parts of the city mistook them for police firing, the officer said. The clashes had begun after a bus handyman was allegedly assaulted by a group of residents of Them Metor area on Thursday afternoon. Trouble escalated when rumours spread on social media that the handyman had succumbed to injuries, prompting a group of bus drivers to converge at Them Metor. The police had to fire teargas shells to disperse them, officials said. The handyman and three injured persons were taken to a hospital where they were released after being administered first aid. The East Khasi Hills district authorities had imposed night curfew in the entire city from 10 pm till 5 am to maintain peace and prevent arson, they said. Four persons, accused of being involved in the assault of three local boys, have been arrested, they said. As many as 11 persons have been picked up in connection with the case so far. Meanwhile, suspension of Internet services has been extended by 24 hours till tomorrow afternoon to prevent rumour-mongering. The Home Department will review the overall situation later. The curfew, which was imposed since 4 am yesterday in at least 14 localities under Lumdiengjri police station and Cantonment Beat House, continues, District deputy commissioner P S Dkhar said. He said that there was no curfew in Police Bazaar and Iew Duh (Bara Bazaar) areas even as shops, schools and banks in these areas remained closed. Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, who chaired a high-level meeting yesterday, had appealed for calm and urged the people to help bring back normalcy in Shillong. Meanwhile, several groups including the Khasi Students Union (KSU), the Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP) and the Hynniewtrep Youth Council demanded that those involved in the assault of local boys be punished and the illegal settlers at Them Metor evicted. "We demand that the government arrest those involved in the assault of the sons and nephew of the bus driver. The government should also compensate the three victims," KSU president Lambok Marngar said The KSU leader also said that the government should evict illegal settlers at Them Metor which is adjacent to IewDuh. "Them Metor has become a den for anti-nationals and it is sad that several governments in the past have not taken initiatives to evict them and provide them space somewhere else," said FKJGP president Wellbirth Rani.

Curfew continues in Shillong for 2nd day; cop injured in clash

A day before the expiry of the deadline to vacate their official bungalows, former chief ministers Akhilesh Yadav and his father Mulayam Singh have moved to the VVIP guest house in Lucknow, while Mayawati vacated one bungalow, she claimed the other was converted into a memorial for BSP founder Kanshi Ram.

"Mulayam Singh Yadav shifted to the VVIP guest house in Lucknow on Friday, while Akhilesh Yadav along with his MP wife Dimple and children shifted to the VVIP guest house on Saturday. One room each has been allotted to Akhilesh, Dimple and Mulayam," Chief Management Officer of VVIP Guest House Rajiv Kumar told PTI.

He said all the rooms which have been allotted to them are double-room suites.

The members of Yadav family have been given rooms on the first floor of the VVIP guest house, a senior official said.

Officials also said that as per laid down norms, a room can be booked for a period of only three days. After this application to book a room has to be submitted for extension or re-booking.

Acting on a Supreme Court order last month, the UP Estate Department issued notices to the former chief ministers asking them to vacate their official bungalows within 15 days that expires Sunday.

The apex court had on May 7 held that former UP chief ministers cannot retain government accommodation after demitting office.

The estate department had issued notices to six former chief ministers - Narayan Dutt Tiwari, Mulayam Singh Yadav, Kalyan Singh, Mayawati, Rajnath Singh and Akhilesh Yadav - to vacate their official bungalows in compliance with SC the order.

While Akhilesh and Mulayam have shifted to the VVIP guest house, Tiwari is yet to do so with his wife Ujjwala Tiwari seeking more time from the estate department, pleading that her husband was in the "last stages" of his life.

A board reading 'Pandit Narain Dutt Tiwari Sarvjan Vikas Foundation' has been fixed outside Tiwari's Mall Avenue bungalow it in an apparent bid to save it.

Claiming compliance with the Supreme Court order, BSP supremo Mayawati vacated a government house here but held on to a second sprawling bungalow, which her party says is a memorial to their founder Kanshi Ram.

Her personal secretary said she has vacated on May 29 the bungalow on 6, Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg which was allotted to her as former chief minister.

However, Mayawati has claimed that the 13 A Mall Avenue bungalow was party founder Kanshi Ram's memorial.

The estate department has rejected Mayawati's claim that 13 A Mall Avenue is Kanshi Ram's memorial, while claiming that the 6 Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg residence, which she had vacated, was under her illegal possession.

13A Mall Avenue was allotted to Mayawati in capacity as former chief minister while 6 Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg bungalow was under her illegal possession. She has to vacate Mall Avenue residence as per the SC order, a senior estate department official told PTI.

A BSP delegation met Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and claimed that the Mall Avenue bungalow was converted into a Kanshi Ram memorial in 2011 and Mayawati occupied only two rooms in it.

On May 21, after it had received the vacation notice, the BSP also installed a board at that bungalow, terming it 'Shri Kanshi Ram Ji Yadgar Vishram Sthal'.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, who is also the local MP, has shifted from his bungalow at 4, Kalidas Marg, just next to the residence of the chief minister, to his residence on 200 square metre plot at Vipul Khand in posh Gomti Nagar here.

Rajasthan Governor Kalyan Singh's belongings have been moved to the official bungalow of his grandson Sandeep Singh, who is a minister in the Yogi Adityanath government.

The Supreme Court's order came on a public interest litigation filed by NGO Lok Prahari following an amendment passed by the UP Assembly which allowed all the former chief ministers to occupy government bungalows for lifetime.

The apex court had also struck down the amendment to the legislation which allowed them to retain government accommodation even after demitting office.

The bench had said the amendment was "arbitrary, discriminatory" and violated the concept of equality and added that once such persons demit public office, there is nothing to distinguish them from the common man.

The NGO had challenged the amendment made by the erstwhile Akhilesh Yadav government to the UP ministers (Salaries, Allowances and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1981.&nbsp

A day before the expiry of the deadline to vacate their official bungalows, former chief ministers Akhilesh Yadav and his father Mulayam Singh have moved to the VVIP guest house in Lucknow

A day before the expiry of the deadline to vacate their official bungalows, former chief ministers Akhilesh Yadav and his father Mulayam Singh have moved to the VVIP guest house in Lucknow, while Mayawati vacated one bungalow, she claimed the other was converted into a memorial for BSP founder Kanshi Ram. "Mulayam Singh Yadav shifted to the VVIP guest house in Lucknow on Friday, while Akhilesh Yadav along with his MP wife Dimple and children shifted to the VVIP guest house on Saturday. One room each has been allotted to Akhilesh, Dimple and Mulayam," Chief Management Officer of VVIP Guest House Rajiv Kumar told PTI. He said all the rooms which have been allotted to them are double-room suites. The members of Yadav family have been given rooms on the first floor of the VVIP guest house, a senior official said. Officials also said that as per laid down norms, a room can be booked for a period of only three days. After this application to book a room has to be submitted for extension or re-booking. Acting on a Supreme Court order last month, the UP Estate Department issued notices to the former chief ministers asking them to vacate their official bungalows within 15 days that expires Sunday. The apex court had on May 7 held that former UP chief ministers cannot retain government accommodation after demitting office. The estate department had issued notices to six former chief ministers - Narayan Dutt Tiwari, Mulayam Singh Yadav, Kalyan Singh, Mayawati, Rajnath Singh and Akhilesh Yadav - to vacate their official bungalows in compliance with SC the order. While Akhilesh and Mulayam have shifted to the VVIP guest house, Tiwari is yet to do so with his wife Ujjwala Tiwari seeking more time from the estate department, pleading that her husband was in the "last stages" of his life. A board reading 'Pandit Narain Dutt Tiwari Sarvjan Vikas Foundation' has been fixed outside Tiwari's Mall Avenue bungalow it in an apparent bid to save it. Claiming compliance with the Supreme Court order, BSP supremo Mayawati vacated a government house here but held on to a second sprawling bungalow, which her party says is a memorial to their founder Kanshi Ram. Her personal secretary said she has vacated on May 29 the bungalow on 6, Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg which was allotted to her as former chief minister. However, Mayawati has claimed that the 13 A Mall Avenue bungalow was party founder Kanshi Ram's memorial. The estate department has rejected Mayawati's claim that 13 A Mall Avenue is Kanshi Ram's memorial, while claiming that the 6 Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg residence, which she had vacated, was under her illegal possession. 13A Mall Avenue was allotted to Mayawati in capacity as former chief minister while 6 Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg bungalow was under her illegal possession. She has to vacate Mall Avenue residence as per the SC order, a senior estate department official told PTI. A BSP delegation met Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and claimed that the Mall Avenue bungalow was converted into a Kanshi Ram memorial in 2011 and Mayawati occupied only two rooms in it. On May 21, after it had received the vacation notice, the BSP also installed a board at that bungalow, terming it 'Shri Kanshi Ram Ji Yadgar Vishram Sthal'. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, who is also the local MP, has shifted from his bungalow at 4, Kalidas Marg, just next to the residence of the chief minister, to his residence on 200 square metre plot at Vipul Khand in posh Gomti Nagar here. Rajasthan Governor Kalyan Singh's belongings have been moved to the official bungalow of his grandson Sandeep Singh, who is a minister in the Yogi Adityanath government. The Supreme Court's order came on a public interest litigation filed by NGO Lok Prahari following an amendment passed by the UP Assembly which allowed all the former chief ministers to occupy government bungalows for lifetime. The apex court had also struck down the amendment to the legislation which allowed them to retain government accommodation even after demitting office. The bench had said the amendment was "arbitrary, discriminatory" and violated the concept of equality and added that once such persons demit public office, there is nothing to distinguish them from the common man. The NGO had challenged the amendment made by the erstwhile Akhilesh Yadav government to the UP ministers (Salaries, Allowances and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1981.

Most UP ex-CMs leave official bungalows after Supreme Court order

JKLF chairman Mohammad Yasin Malik was detained from his residence in Srinagar, while moderate Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was placed under house arrest on Saturday.

This was done as a precautionary step to prevent them from taking out protest marches after a youth, who was allegedly run over by a CRPF vehicle on Friday, died, a police official said.

Malik was detained from his Maisuma residence and taken to the Kothi Bagh police station, he said.

Mirwaiz was put under house arrest at his Nigeen residence, he added.

Hardline Hurriyat Conference leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani continues to remain under house detention, the police official said.

The three separatist leaders, under the banner of Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL), had called for a shutdown in the Valley on Saturday to protest the death of the youth, Kaiser Bhat (21).

Clashes erupted after the Friday prayers ended at the Jamia Masjid in Srinagar's Nowhatta.

Bhat was hurt when a CRPF vehicle, which was under attack from protestors, hit him and another man.

The two were rushed to SKIMS hospital, where Bhat later died.

This was done as a precautionary step to prevent them from taking out protest marches after a youth, who was allegedly run over by a CRPF vehicle on Friday, died

JKLF chairman Mohammad Yasin Malik was detained from his residence in Srinagar, while moderate Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was placed under house arrest on Saturday. This was done as a precautionary step to prevent them from taking out protest marches after a youth, who was allegedly run over by a CRPF vehicle on Friday, died, a police official said. Malik was detained from his Maisuma residence and taken to the Kothi Bagh police station, he said. Mirwaiz was put under house arrest at his Nigeen residence, he added. Hardline Hurriyat Conference leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani continues to remain under house detention, the police official said. The three separatist leaders, under the banner of Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL), had called for a shutdown in the Valley on Saturday to protest the death of the youth, Kaiser Bhat (21). Clashes erupted after the Friday prayers ended at the Jamia Masjid in Srinagar's Nowhatta. Bhat was hurt when a CRPF vehicle, which was under attack from protestors, hit him and another man. The two were rushed to SKIMS hospital, where Bhat later died.

J&K: Yasin Malik detained, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq put under house arrest

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/historic-summit-with-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-is-back-on-for-june-12-in-singapore-donald-trump-141676">Historic summit with North Korea's Kim Jong-un is back on for June 12 in Singapore: Donald Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump today confirmed that he would meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un for a historic summit in Singapore on June 12.

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/mattis-slams-china-on-the-south-china-sea-leaves-adoor-open-for-results-oriented-relationship-141675">Mattis slams China on </a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/mattis-slams-china-on-the-south-china-sea-leaves-adoor-open-for-results-oriented-relationship-141675">South</a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/mattis-slams-china-on-the-south-china-sea-leaves-adoor-open-for-results-oriented-relationship-141675"> China </a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/mattis-slams-china-on-the-south-china-sea-leaves-adoor-open-for-results-oriented-relationship-141675">Sea,</a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/mattis-slams-china-on-the-south-china-sea-leaves-adoor-open-for-results-oriented-relationship-141675"> leaves </a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/mattis-slams-china-on-the-south-china-sea-leaves-adoor-open-for-results-oriented-relationship-141675">door</a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/mattis-slams-china-on-the-south-china-sea-leaves-adoor-open-for-results-oriented-relationship-141675"> open for '</a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/mattis-slams-china-on-the-south-china-sea-leaves-adoor-open-for-results-oriented-relationship-141675">results oriented</a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/mattis-slams-china-on-the-south-china-sea-leaves-adoor-open-for-results-oriented-relationship-141675"> relationship'</a>

The United States is willing to work with China on a "results-oriented" relationship, but Beijing's actions in the South China Sea call into question its intent and the Pentagon will "compete vigorously" if needed, US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said on Saturday.

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/we-have-russian-hit-list-of-47-people-ukraine-tells-allies-141678">'We have Russian hit-list of 47 people', Ukraine tells allies</a>

Ukraine, seeking to reassure its Western allies after faking the murder of a Russian dissident to thwart what it said was a plot on his life, told them on Friday its ruse led to the discovery of a hit-list of 47 people whom Russia planned to kill abroad.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/modi-pushes-for-asean-unity-and-a-new-rule-based-multipolar-world-order-141639">'Nations need to rise above divisions and work together,' says Modi at Shangri-La Dialogue</a>

The much-awaited Shangri-La Dialogue started with renewed emphasis on the Indian and South East Asian connection. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the future resides in the East and the region can be shaped with collective hope. He said Singapore is an example of great excellence. “When rule prevails and oceans are open, nations prosper and Singapore is an example of it,” he said.

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/us-vetoes-un-resolution-on-protecting-palestinians-141682">US vetoes UN resolution on protecting Palestinians</a>

The United States vetoed Friday an Arab-backed UN draft resolution calling for measures to protect the Palestinians but failed to win any backing for its own text condemning Hamas for the violence in Gaza.

&nbsp

Historic summit with North Korea's Kim Jong-un is back on for June 12 in Singapore: Donald Trump US President Donald Trump today confirmed that he would meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un for a historic summit in Singapore on June 12. Mattis slams China on South China Sea, leaves door open for 'results oriented relationship' The United States is willing to work with China on a "results-oriented" relationship, but Beijing's actions in the South China Sea call into question its intent and the Pentagon will "compete vigorously" if needed, US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said on Saturday. 'We have Russian hit-list of 47 people', Ukraine tells allies Ukraine, seeking to reassure its Western allies after faking the murder of a Russian dissident to thwart what it said was a plot on his life, told them on Friday its ruse led to the discovery of a hit-list of 47 people whom Russia planned to kill abroad. 'Nations need to rise above divisions and work together,' says Modi at Shangri-La Dialogue The much-awaited Shangri-La Dialogue started with renewed emphasis on the Indian and South East Asian connection. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the future resides in the East and the region can be shaped with collective hope. He said Singapore is an example of great excellence. “When rule prevails and oceans are open, nations prosper and Singapore is an example of it,” he said. US vetoes UN resolution on protecting Palestinians The United States vetoed Friday an Arab-backed UN draft resolution calling for measures to protect the Palestinians but failed to win any backing for its own text condemning Hamas for the violence in Gaza.

News brief: Big stories of the day

A woman died in Shimla after she was allegedly hit by a water tanker while collecting water.

The woman was declared brought dead by the hospital authorities.

The capital city of Himachal Pradesh is undergoing severe water crises in several parts for over ten days.

The residents of the city have been protesting against the water shortage.

They raised slogans against the government and Shimla Municipal Corporation and also blocked the road leading to the state secretariat.

The people of the area claim that they have not received supply water for the past eight days.&nbsp;

Resorting to bottled water for cooking and drinking, many of them were also utilising&nbsp;the little water which they had collected from the rain.

A resident has also asked the government to promote dry toilets in the city to save millions of litres of water.

The&nbsp;government, on the other hand, has blamed the situation of water crises in the city on the rising temperature and the consequent drying up of water resources.

A statement released by the government also said that the civic body had received a limited amount of water which was being distributed to different locations as per timetable.

The statement said that the government was supplying the water through water tankers at different locations.

Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh Jai Ram Thakur also visited New Delhi to brief the Prime Minister's Office on the water crises in the state.

After the intervention&nbsp;of the High Court, the Municipal Corporation has also disconnected the water supply of various hotels in the city.

The Court has asked the government to provide water on a rotational basis.

It has also directed the Municipal Corporation to ensure equitable distribution of water.

The next hearing in the case is on June 11.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HimachalPradesh?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HimachalPradesh</a>: A woman died after being allegedly hit by a water tanker at Shimla's Mall Road. She was declared brought dead by Indira Gandhi Medical College administration. <a href="https://t.co/VWKcI0BErW">pic.twitter.com/VWKcI0BErW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1002855994781679616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Resorting to bottled water for cooking and drinking, many of them were also utilising the little water which they had collected from the rain

A woman died in Shimla after she was allegedly hit by a water tanker while collecting water. The woman was declared brought dead by the hospital authorities. The capital city of Himachal Pradesh is undergoing severe water crises in several parts for over ten days. The residents of the city have been protesting against the water shortage. They raised slogans against the government and Shimla Municipal Corporation and also blocked the road leading to the state secretariat. The people of the area claim that they have not received supply water for the past eight days. Resorting to bottled water for cooking and drinking, many of them were also utilising the little water which they had collected from the rain. A resident has also asked the government to promote dry toilets in the city to save millions of litres of water. The government, on the other hand, has blamed the situation of water crises in the city on the rising temperature and the consequent drying up of water resources. A statement released by the government also said that the civic body had received a limited amount of water which was being distributed to different locations as per timetable. The statement said that the government was supplying the water through water tankers at different locations. Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh Jai Ram Thakur also visited New Delhi to brief the Prime Minister's Office on the water crises in the state. After the intervention of the High Court, the Municipal Corporation has also disconnected the water supply of various hotels in the city. The Court has asked the government to provide water on a rotational basis. It has also directed the Municipal Corporation to ensure equitable distribution of water. The next hearing in the case is on June 11. #HimachalPradesh: A woman died after being allegedly hit by a water tanker at Shimla's Mall Road. She was declared brought dead by Indira Gandhi Medical College administration. pic.twitter.com/VWKcI0BErW — ANI (@ANI) June 2, 2018 ×

Amid water crisis in Shimla, woman dies after being hit by tanker

Bollywood actor and producer Arbaaz Khan on Saturday accepted that he had placed bets in the Indian Premier League (IPL) matches last year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/sports/ipl-betting-scandal-arbaaz-khan-admits-to-have-placed-bets-was-involved-since-last-6-years-141764">Arbaaz Khan admits to having placed bets on IPL, says he did it for 6 years</a>

Khan, who appeared before the Thane Police for interrogation on Saturday, confessed that he lost Rs 2.75 crore in the same, as per sources.

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Meanwhile, Thane Police Commissioner, Param Bir Singh said that interrogation in the matter is underway while adding that the Deputy Commissioner of Police will brief about it once the interrogation concludes.

Speaking over the matter, IPL Commissioner, Rajeev Shukla said, "The matter is with the police, we have nothing to do with it. Both Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and International Cricket Council (ICC) have anti-corruption units, police can coordinate with them.

"Arbaaz, brother of Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, was on Friday summoned by the Thane Anti-Extortion Cell, to join the investigation in the case.

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My statement has been recorded. Police asked whatever they needed in this investigation and I answered them. I will continue to cooperate with them: Arbaaz Khan after giving statement to Thane Anti-Extortion Cell in connection with probe of an IPL betting case <a href="https://t.co/SAOH4Sw3yH">pic.twitter.com/SAOH4Sw3yH</a>
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His name cropped up during the investigation of a bookie, Sonu Jalan, who was arrested by the police on Tuesday.

Bollywood actor and producer Arbaaz Khan is being interrogated by Thane Police. Sources said he had confessed to placing bets on the Indian Premier League

Bollywood actor and producer Arbaaz Khan on Saturday accepted that he had placed bets in the Indian Premier League (IPL) matches last year. Also read: Arbaaz Khan admits to having placed bets on IPL, says he did it for 6 years Khan, who appeared before the Thane Police for interrogation on Saturday, confessed that he lost Rs 2.75 crore in the same, as per sources. × Meanwhile, Thane Police Commissioner, Param Bir Singh said that interrogation in the matter is underway while adding that the Deputy Commissioner of Police will brief about it once the interrogation concludes. Speaking over the matter, IPL Commissioner, Rajeev Shukla said, "The matter is with the police, we have nothing to do with it. Both Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and International Cricket Council (ICC) have anti-corruption units, police can coordinate with them. "Arbaaz, brother of Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, was on Friday summoned by the Thane Anti-Extortion Cell, to join the investigation in the case. My statement has been recorded. Police asked whatever they needed in this investigation and I answered them. I will continue to cooperate with them: Arbaaz Khan after giving statement to Thane Anti-Extortion Cell in connection with probe of an IPL betting case pic.twitter.com/SAOH4Sw3yH — ANI (@ANI) June 2, 2018 × His name cropped up during the investigation of a bookie, Sonu Jalan, who was arrested by the police on Tuesday.

Arbaaz Khan has confessed to losing Rs 2.75 crore in bets on IPL: Sources

A 32-year-old man, who abandoned his newborn baby at a church in Kochi, allegedly committed the offence out of fear that he would be shamed socially for siring a fourth child, police said on Saturday.

Bitto and his wife Prabitha (28), from Thrissur district, were arrested this morning for abandoning their newborn child at St George Forane Church in Edappally last evening, they said.

The two, having four kids including the abandoned two-day-old infant, were traced from Wadakkancherry, they added.

The woman allegedly joined her husband in committing the crime after being discharged from the Government Medical College Hospital in Thrissur, where she delivered the baby.

During the preliminary probe, Bitto told the investigation team that the offence was committed out of fear that they would be shamed socially for siring a fourth child, police said.

They were allegedly laughed at by friends and locals for Prabitha being continuously pregnant.

Police, however, said a detailed investigation was required to reach a final conclusion in the case.

The two have been charged under IPC Section 317(exposure and abandonment of child under 12 years, by parent or person having care of it) and Juvenile Justice Act, Section 75 (punishment for cruelty to child), police said.

CCTV camera footage aired by television channels and circulated on social media since last night showed a couple leaving the child in the premises of the church.

The security staff of the church noticed the child at around 8.30 pm and immediately alerted the police.

In the footage, the couple along with another child was seen walking into the church around 8.15 pm with the baby wrapped in an orange sheet.

The father kissed the baby on its forehead before carefully placing the infant on the ground of the church.

The baby was admitted to a private hospital immediately after the incident.

Hospital sources said the infant was healthy.

The couple were allegedly laughed at by friends and locals because the wife was continuously pregnant. They abandoned their baby at a church in Edappally

A 32-year-old man, who abandoned his newborn baby at a church in Kochi, allegedly committed the offence out of fear that he would be shamed socially for siring a fourth child, police said on Saturday. Bitto and his wife Prabitha (28), from Thrissur district, were arrested this morning for abandoning their newborn child at St George Forane Church in Edappally last evening, they said. The two, having four kids including the abandoned two-day-old infant, were traced from Wadakkancherry, they added. The woman allegedly joined her husband in committing the crime after being discharged from the Government Medical College Hospital in Thrissur, where she delivered the baby. During the preliminary probe, Bitto told the investigation team that the offence was committed out of fear that they would be shamed socially for siring a fourth child, police said. They were allegedly laughed at by friends and locals for Prabitha being continuously pregnant. Police, however, said a detailed investigation was required to reach a final conclusion in the case. The two have been charged under IPC Section 317(exposure and abandonment of child under 12 years, by parent or person having care of it) and Juvenile Justice Act, Section 75 (punishment for cruelty to child), police said. CCTV camera footage aired by television channels and circulated on social media since last night showed a couple leaving the child in the premises of the church. The security staff of the church noticed the child at around 8.30 pm and immediately alerted the police. In the footage, the couple along with another child was seen walking into the church around 8.15 pm with the baby wrapped in an orange sheet. The father kissed the baby on its forehead before carefully placing the infant on the ground of the church. The baby was admitted to a private hospital immediately after the incident. Hospital sources said the infant was healthy.

Scared they would be shamed for having 4th child, Kerala couple abandon baby

On the third and last day of his Singapore visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met former Singaporean premier and Emeritus Senior Minister (ESM) Goh Chok Tong here on Saturday.

The two leaders held talks on issues of mutual interest.

ESM Goh served as the country's second prime minister from 1990 to 2004. Prior to this, he also served as the deputy prime minister of Singapore from 1985 to 1990.

ESM Goh has also served in several cabinet berths under the first Prime Minister of Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew and most notably as Senior Minister under incumbent Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's cabinet from 2004 to 2011.

In 2011, Prime Minister Lee appointed Goh as Emeritus Senior Minister. He is also a senior advisor to the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), which is the country's central bank.

After the meeting, Prime Minister Modi will unveil the plaque marking the immersion site of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi's ashes at Clifford Pier.

Prime Minister Modi will then hold a meeting with US Secretary of Defence Jim Mattis.

Mattis had served as the Marine Corps Reserve for over four decades before retiring in 2013. In January 2017, US President Donald Trump appointed Mattis as his defence secretary.

Next, Prime Minister Modi will visit the National Orchid Garden, which is located within the Singapore Botanic Gardens. It is the only tropical garden to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Singapore?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Singapore</a>: Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled plaque marking the immersion site of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes at Clifford Pier. Singapore's former Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong also present. <a href="https://t.co/W8uUs6bezs">pic.twitter.com/W8uUs6bezs</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1002734145141739520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Singapore?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Singapore</a>: Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled plaque marking the immersion site of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes at Clifford Pier. Singapore's former Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong also present. <a href="https://t.co/nrZdxMHDQW">pic.twitter.com/nrZdxMHDQW</a>
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The Prime Minister will pay a visit to Chuliya Mosque, one of the oldest mosques of Singapore located in Chinatown. It has been the country's national monument since 1974.

Prime Minister Modi will visit the Sri Mariamman Temple, which is located nearby to the Chuliya Mosque and is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore.

He will next visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, also located in Chinatown. The temple gets its name from what the Buddhists regard as the left canine tooth of Lord Buddha, which was recovered from his funeral pyre in Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh, according to visitsingapore.com.

After this, the Prime Minister will visit the Indian Heritage Centre, situated in Little India.

Lastly, Prime Minister Modi will visit by going to Changi Naval Base, where he will see the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Satpura and interact with officers and sailors of the Indian Navy and Royal Singapore Navy.

After these engagements, he will emplane for New Delhi, concluding his five-day visit to Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore.

India and Singapore held a wide-range discussion on strategic and economic issues, technology and innovation during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Southeast Asian nation, said the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday.

"Discussions were held on strategic and economic issues and technology and innovation. Prime Minister Modi in his discussion to the leadership of Singapore conveyed our intention to play a balanced and constructive cooperative role in advancing peace and stability in the entire region," MEA Secretary (East) Preeti Saran said while briefing the media.

While addressing a keynote at the Shangri-La Dialogue on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) bloc as "architecture of peace and security in the region" and an "example and inspiration" for international cooperation.

He noted that the Southeast Asian region has maritime and territorial, political, defence, and economic ties with India.

Further, referring to the significance of Indo-Pacific region, Prime Minister Modi said, "India stands for a free, open, inclusive region which includes all nations in this geography as also others beyond who have a stake in it."

The Prime Minister highlighted the deepening bilateral ties of India and China and said the world would be a better place if the two Asian giants work together in trust and confidence.

He said both the countries, which share a long and disputed boundary, have displayed maturity and wisdom in managing issues and ensuring a peaceful border as there "is a growing intersection in our international presence."

Later, Prime Minister Modi talked of the bilateral relations between India and the United States and said, "India's global strategic partnership with the United States continues to deepen across the extraordinary breadth of our relationship."

Terming Singapore as a "Gateway of India to the east", Prime Minister Modi said both India and Singapore shared multilateral ties in the fields of religion, culture, art and commerce, language and literature.

On the same note, he described the relations between India and Singapore as 'SAGAR' (Security and Growth for All in the Region).

The Prime Minister called on nations to collectively address mutual insecurities and terror threats being faced by the countries across the world and called for a collaborative effort in countering the challenges, including terrorism, being faced by the global community.

Earlier on Friday, Prime Minister Modi gifted Prime Minister Lee a replica of 6th-century Buddhagupta Stele.

A total of 14 Business to Business (B2B) and Business to Government (B2G) were signed during the event at Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre in Singapore.

Prime Minister Modi landed in Singapore on Thursday, where he received a rousing welcome from the crowd.

Before Singapore, the Prime Minister visited Indonesia and Malaysia in a bid to enhance India's relations and engagements with the three countries, who are members of the ASEAN.

Prime Minister Modi will then hold a meeting with US Secretary of Defence Jim Mattis.

On the third and last day of his Singapore visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met former Singaporean premier and Emeritus Senior Minister (ESM) Goh Chok Tong here on Saturday. The two leaders held talks on issues of mutual interest. ESM Goh served as the country's second prime minister from 1990 to 2004. Prior to this, he also served as the deputy prime minister of Singapore from 1985 to 1990. ESM Goh has also served in several cabinet berths under the first Prime Minister of Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew and most notably as Senior Minister under incumbent Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's cabinet from 2004 to 2011. In 2011, Prime Minister Lee appointed Goh as Emeritus Senior Minister. He is also a senior advisor to the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), which is the country's central bank. After the meeting, Prime Minister Modi will unveil the plaque marking the immersion site of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi's ashes at Clifford Pier. Prime Minister Modi will then hold a meeting with US Secretary of Defence Jim Mattis. Mattis had served as the Marine Corps Reserve for over four decades before retiring in 2013. In January 2017, US President Donald Trump appointed Mattis as his defence secretary. Next, Prime Minister Modi will visit the National Orchid Garden, which is located within the Singapore Botanic Gardens. It is the only tropical garden to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. #Singapore: Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled plaque marking the immersion site of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes at Clifford Pier. Singapore's former Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong also present. pic.twitter.com/W8uUs6bezs — ANI (@ANI) June 2, 2018 × #Singapore: Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled plaque marking the immersion site of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes at Clifford Pier. Singapore's former Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong also present. pic.twitter.com/nrZdxMHDQW — ANI (@ANI) June 2, 2018 × The Prime Minister will pay a visit to Chuliya Mosque, one of the oldest mosques of Singapore located in Chinatown. It has been the country's national monument since 1974. Prime Minister Modi will visit the Sri Mariamman Temple, which is located nearby to the Chuliya Mosque and is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. He will next visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, also located in Chinatown. The temple gets its name from what the Buddhists regard as the left canine tooth of Lord Buddha, which was recovered from his funeral pyre in Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh, according to visitsingapore.com. After this, the Prime Minister will visit the Indian Heritage Centre, situated in Little India. Lastly, Prime Minister Modi will visit by going to Changi Naval Base, where he will see the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Satpura and interact with officers and sailors of the Indian Navy and Royal Singapore Navy. After these engagements, he will emplane for New Delhi, concluding his five-day visit to Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. India and Singapore held a wide-range discussion on strategic and economic issues, technology and innovation during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Southeast Asian nation, said the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday. "Discussions were held on strategic and economic issues and technology and innovation. Prime Minister Modi in his discussion to the leadership of Singapore conveyed our intention to play a balanced and constructive cooperative role in advancing peace and stability in the entire region," MEA Secretary (East) Preeti Saran said while briefing the media. While addressing a keynote at the Shangri-La Dialogue on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) bloc as "architecture of peace and security in the region" and an "example and inspiration" for international cooperation. He noted that the Southeast Asian region has maritime and territorial, political, defence, and economic ties with India. Further, referring to the significance of Indo-Pacific region, Prime Minister Modi said, "India stands for a free, open, inclusive region which includes all nations in this geography as also others beyond who have a stake in it." The Prime Minister highlighted the deepening bilateral ties of India and China and said the world would be a better place if the two Asian giants work together in trust and confidence. He said both the countries, which share a long and disputed boundary, have displayed maturity and wisdom in managing issues and ensuring a peaceful border as there "is a growing intersection in our international presence." Later, Prime Minister Modi talked of the bilateral relations between India and the United States and said, "India's global strategic partnership with the United States continues to deepen across the extraordinary breadth of our relationship." Terming Singapore as a "Gateway of India to the east", Prime Minister Modi said both India and Singapore shared multilateral ties in the fields of religion, culture, art and commerce, language and literature. On the same note, he described the relations between India and Singapore as 'SAGAR' (Security and Growth for All in the Region). The Prime Minister called on nations to collectively address mutual insecurities and terror threats being faced by the countries across the world and called for a collaborative effort in countering the challenges, including terrorism, being faced by the global community. Earlier on Friday, Prime Minister Modi gifted Prime Minister Lee a replica of 6th-century Buddhagupta Stele. A total of 14 Business to Business (B2B) and Business to Government (B2G) were signed during the event at Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre in Singapore. Prime Minister Modi landed in Singapore on Thursday, where he received a rousing welcome from the crowd. Before Singapore, the Prime Minister visited Indonesia and Malaysia in a bid to enhance India's relations and engagements with the three countries, who are members of the ASEAN.

PM Modi meets ex-Singaporean PM Goh Chok Tong

Ahead of the Environment Day on June 5, an event was organised by the Embassy of Sweden, a group of ploggers of India and the European Union in New Delhi on Friday.&nbsp;

The participants of the event pledged for clean and plastic free Delhi by " plogging ".

They jogged around the India gate simultaneously picking up trash from around the monument.

The event was organised as part of EU's series of environmental programmes in India.

Plogging is a Swedish fitness trend that combines running with collecting garbage.

The EU delegation and the embassies of the EU member states are expected to introduce a "green-pledge" on June 5 to ensure single-use plstic products, saving energy and water resources and managing waste.

Ahead of the Environment Day on June 5, an event was organised by the Embassy of Sweden, a group of ploggers of India and the European Union in New Delhi on Friday

Ahead of the Environment Day on June 5, an event was organised by the Embassy of Sweden, a group of ploggers of India and the European Union in New Delhi on Friday. The participants of the event pledged for clean and plastic free Delhi by " plogging ". They jogged around the India gate simultaneously picking up trash from around the monument. The event was organised as part of EU's series of environmental programmes in India. Plogging is a Swedish fitness trend that combines running with collecting garbage. The EU delegation and the embassies of the EU member states are expected to introduce a "green-pledge" on June 5 to ensure single-use plstic products, saving energy and water resources and managing waste.

India, EU pledge to 'plog' for plastic-free Delhi

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