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Opposition parties and the ruling BJP on Monday moved the Election Commission claiming "hundreds" of EVMs and paper trail machines deployed for Kairana Lok Sabha and Noorpur assembly bypolls developed snags and were not replaced for hours.

But the Election Commission termed as "exaggerated projection of reality" reports of 'large scale' failure of EVMs during Lok Sabha and assembly bypolls in Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra and said adequate number of reserve machines are provided for any eventuality.

Sources in the poll panel did say that shoddy handling of VVPAT machines by the ground staff, especially when the temperature is high, led to their heating, resulting in their malfunctioning.

SP leader Ramgopal Yadav and RLD chief Ajit Singh along with others met top EC officials claiming that the faulty EVMs were not replaced on time.

The leaders demanded that repoll should be announced in polling stations where EVMs were not replaced for over one-and-a-half hours. At polling stations where EVMs were replaced within one-and-a-half hours, additional time should be granted to voters to exercise their franchise, they told reporters after meeting the EC.

They alleged that poll officials "took their own time" in replacing EVMs in rural areas, the base of their voters. The EVMs were, however, replaced with alacrity in urban areas.

A BJP delegation, including general secretaries Bhupender Yadav and Arun Singh besides its media head Anil Baluni, informed the Election Commission that EVM machines were dysfunctional for a long period in 197 booths in Kairana and Noorpur.

Yadav told reporters that they urged the EC to hold repolling in booths were election process was severely affected.

They asked the EC to send observers to identify such booths and also find out reasons for EVM malfunction.

Concerns were also raised about the functioning of paper trail (VVPAT) machines. Sources in the EC noted that failure on part of the ground staff led to heating of the machines.

An official said those who skipped training programmes and "spent time on their phones during training sessions" placed the machines at places where 'heat sensitive' nature of the device created problems.

A poll panel spokesperson later said a joint delegation of the RLD, SP and Congress and a separate delegation of BJP representatives met the EC and brought to its notice concerns about functioning of VVPAT machines in some of the polling booths in bypolls today.

"The Commission assured them that all necessary action will be taken on issues raised. They were also assured that the concerns related to VVPAT have been verified on ground and appropriate actions have been taken by the District Election teams. The Commission has also informed that on the basis of reports of RO, DEO and Observers, further action will be taken."

The EC said voters who have queued up outside polling stations will be allowed to cast votes despite end of polling hours.

But in a statement, poll panel denied that the failure of the voting machines was unusual.

"... the Commission allocates sufficient reserve of EVMs and VVPATs for every general and by election to the Lok Sabha or state assembly.

"It is pertinent to mention that during commissioning of EVMs and VVPATs, apart from EVMs and VVPATs required for deployment at every polling station, adequate number of reserve EVMs and VVPATs (around 20-25 per cent) are prepared to replace any defective machine on poll day at the polling station," it said.

It said the reserve EVMs/VVPATs are kept with sector officers, who replace the defective EVMs/VVPATs. Since each sector officer is entrusted with only 10-12 polling stations, the time taken to replace any EVM/VVPAT is normally less than 30 minutes.

"The replacement of defective EVMs/VVPATs during actual polls is a normal process and does not vitiate the integrity or credibility of the poll process in any way whatsoever," the statement read.

The poll panel also rejected reports that polling was cancelled in 35 booths in Bhandara-Gondiya LS constituency in Maharashtra.&nbsp

"Also, the reports emerging in some quarters about EVMs/VVPATs failing in 25 per cent polling booths in the same constituency are also incorrect. It is clarified that voting has not been cancelled in any polling station in Bhandara-Gondiya constituency and voting is continuing smoothly after necessary replacements," it said.

As and when a report from poll officials regarding long interruption of polling is received, the Commission takes a decision on those matters on case to case basis, it said.

"The Commission undertakes a comprehensive examination and root-cause analysis of all defects observed in the machines through the Technical Experts Committee of the Commission and necessary remedial actions are being taken for smooth conduct of poll process," the statement added.&nbsp

Parties said that EVMs and paper trail machines in UP developed snags and were not replaced for hours.

Opposition parties and the ruling BJP on Monday moved the Election Commission claiming "hundreds" of EVMs and paper trail machines deployed for Kairana Lok Sabha and Noorpur assembly bypolls developed snags and were not replaced for hours. But the Election Commission termed as "exaggerated projection of reality" reports of 'large scale' failure of EVMs during Lok Sabha and assembly bypolls in Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra and said adequate number of reserve machines are provided for any eventuality. Sources in the poll panel did say that shoddy handling of VVPAT machines by the ground staff, especially when the temperature is high, led to their heating, resulting in their malfunctioning. SP leader Ramgopal Yadav and RLD chief Ajit Singh along with others met top EC officials claiming that the faulty EVMs were not replaced on time. The leaders demanded that repoll should be announced in polling stations where EVMs were not replaced for over one-and-a-half hours. At polling stations where EVMs were replaced within one-and-a-half hours, additional time should be granted to voters to exercise their franchise, they told reporters after meeting the EC. They alleged that poll officials "took their own time" in replacing EVMs in rural areas, the base of their voters. The EVMs were, however, replaced with alacrity in urban areas. A BJP delegation, including general secretaries Bhupender Yadav and Arun Singh besides its media head Anil Baluni, informed the Election Commission that EVM machines were dysfunctional for a long period in 197 booths in Kairana and Noorpur. Yadav told reporters that they urged the EC to hold repolling in booths were election process was severely affected. They asked the EC to send observers to identify such booths and also find out reasons for EVM malfunction. Concerns were also raised about the functioning of paper trail (VVPAT) machines. Sources in the EC noted that failure on part of the ground staff led to heating of the machines. An official said those who skipped training programmes and "spent time on their phones during training sessions" placed the machines at places where 'heat sensitive' nature of the device created problems. A poll panel spokesperson later said a joint delegation of the RLD, SP and Congress and a separate delegation of BJP representatives met the EC and brought to its notice concerns about functioning of VVPAT machines in some of the polling booths in bypolls today. "The Commission assured them that all necessary action will be taken on issues raised. They were also assured that the concerns related to VVPAT have been verified on ground and appropriate actions have been taken by the District Election teams. The Commission has also informed that on the basis of reports of RO, DEO and Observers, further action will be taken." The EC said voters who have queued up outside polling stations will be allowed to cast votes despite end of polling hours. But in a statement, poll panel denied that the failure of the voting machines was unusual. "... the Commission allocates sufficient reserve of EVMs and VVPATs for every general and by election to the Lok Sabha or state assembly. "It is pertinent to mention that during commissioning of EVMs and VVPATs, apart from EVMs and VVPATs required for deployment at every polling station, adequate number of reserve EVMs and VVPATs (around 20-25 per cent) are prepared to replace any defective machine on poll day at the polling station," it said. It said the reserve EVMs/VVPATs are kept with sector officers, who replace the defective EVMs/VVPATs. Since each sector officer is entrusted with only 10-12 polling stations, the time taken to replace any EVM/VVPAT is normally less than 30 minutes. "The replacement of defective EVMs/VVPATs during actual polls is a normal process and does not vitiate the integrity or credibility of the poll process in any way whatsoever," the statement read. The poll panel also rejected reports that polling was cancelled in 35 booths in Bhandara-Gondiya LS constituency in Maharashtra. "Also, the reports emerging in some quarters about EVMs/VVPATs failing in 25 per cent polling booths in the same constituency are also incorrect. It is clarified that voting has not been cancelled in any polling station in Bhandara-Gondiya constituency and voting is continuing smoothly after necessary replacements," it said. As and when a report from poll officials regarding long interruption of polling is received, the Commission takes a decision on those matters on case to case basis, it said. "The Commission undertakes a comprehensive examination and root-cause analysis of all defects observed in the machines through the Technical Experts Committee of the Commission and necessary remedial actions are being taken for smooth conduct of poll process," the statement added.

Parties say EVMs, VVPATs malfunctioned; EC says reports exaggerated

The Delhi High Court and Arun Jaitley today accepted the apology tendered by dissident Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Kumar Vishwas for levelling allegations against the finance minister.

In a relief to the poet-turned politician, Jaitley's lawyer Manik Dogra said, "We have accepted it (apology)." 
 
Justice Rajiv Sahai Endlaw noted that Vishwas, in a letter submitted in the court today, has without any reservation, unequivocally withdrawn all the allegations levelled against the BJP leader.

The court disposed of the suit in which Vishwas was the only one against whom the defamation suit remained after Arvind Kejriwal and four other AAP leaders -- Raghav Chadha, Sanjay Singh, Ashutosh and Deepak Bajpai-- had tendered unequivocal apology to Arun Jaitley in the Rs 10 crore defamation suit filed against them by the union minister.

Vishwas, through his advocate Amit Yadav, tendered sincere apology to Jaitley and his family members for causing any harm to them.

Senior advocate Rajiv Nayar and advocate Manik Dogra, who appeared for Jaitley, said they have accepted Vishwas's apology.

The court said, "apology has been accepted by the plaintiff and this court and decree is passed in favour of Arun Jaitley and against Kumar Vishwas in terms of letter handed over today..."

Vishwas had earlier told the court that before making any statement or apology to Jaitley, he wanted to know if Kejriwal lied when he said his allegations against the union minister were based on documents.

The dissident AAP leader had told the court that he needed more time to decide what statement he will make so that the suit can be disposed of as he was personally not interested in taking the matter forward.&nbsp;

Jaitley had lodged the Rs 10 crore defamation suit in December 2015 against Kejriwal and the five AAP leaders after they had alleged financial irregularities in the Delhi and District Cricket Association when the union minister was its president. The BJP leader had denied all the allegations.&nbsp;

Arun Jaitley had lodged the Rs 10 crore defamation suit in December 2015 against Kejriwal and the five AAP leaders after they had alleged financial irregularities in the Delhi and District Cricket Association when the finance minister was its president

The Delhi High Court and Arun Jaitley today accepted the apology tendered by dissident Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Kumar Vishwas for levelling allegations against the finance minister. In a relief to the poet-turned politician, Jaitley's lawyer Manik Dogra said, "We have accepted it (apology)." Justice Rajiv Sahai Endlaw noted that Vishwas, in a letter submitted in the court today, has without any reservation, unequivocally withdrawn all the allegations levelled against the BJP leader. The court disposed of the suit in which Vishwas was the only one against whom the defamation suit remained after Arvind Kejriwal and four other AAP leaders -- Raghav Chadha, Sanjay Singh, Ashutosh and Deepak Bajpai-- had tendered unequivocal apology to Arun Jaitley in the Rs 10 crore defamation suit filed against them by the union minister. Vishwas, through his advocate Amit Yadav, tendered sincere apology to Jaitley and his family members for causing any harm to them. Senior advocate Rajiv Nayar and advocate Manik Dogra, who appeared for Jaitley, said they have accepted Vishwas's apology. The court said, "apology has been accepted by the plaintiff and this court and decree is passed in favour of Arun Jaitley and against Kumar Vishwas in terms of letter handed over today..." Vishwas had earlier told the court that before making any statement or apology to Jaitley, he wanted to know if Kejriwal lied when he said his allegations against the union minister were based on documents. The dissident AAP leader had told the court that he needed more time to decide what statement he will make so that the suit can be disposed of as he was personally not interested in taking the matter forward. Jaitley had lodged the Rs 10 crore defamation suit in December 2015 against Kejriwal and the five AAP leaders after they had alleged financial irregularities in the Delhi and District Cricket Association when the union minister was its president. The BJP leader had denied all the allegations.

Arun Jaitley accepts  Kumar Vishwas' apology in defamation case

An NGO Akhand Bharat Morcha has filed a petition&nbsp;in the National Green Tribunal seeking a ban on the use of loudspeakers in Mosques.

The NGT has sought a response on the matter from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), police and others by June 26.

The request for the ban has been initiated to put a restriction on the alleged noise pollution caused by the use of loudspeakers in the area.

The NGO said that the illegal use of the loudspeakers at mosques adversely affected the health of people living in the area. It also added that these places of worship were located in silent zones housing schools and hospitals and noise from their loudspeakers surpassed the specified decibel levels.

The plea also said that the &nbsp;activities of some mosques were in violation of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.

It also said that the authorities have not taken any action in the matter despite several complaints.

The petition also referred to the NGT's September 2017 order which directed the Delhi government and the DPCC to ensure that religious places in East Delhi followed the guidelines issued to keep a check on noise pollution.

The NGT has sought a response on the matter from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), police and others by June 26

An NGO Akhand Bharat Morcha has filed a petition in the National Green Tribunal seeking a ban on the use of loudspeakers in Mosques. The NGT has sought a response on the matter from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), police and others by June 26. The request for the ban has been initiated to put a restriction on the alleged noise pollution caused by the use of loudspeakers in the area. The NGO said that the illegal use of the loudspeakers at mosques adversely affected the health of people living in the area. It also added that these places of worship were located in silent zones housing schools and hospitals and noise from their loudspeakers surpassed the specified decibel levels. The plea also said that the activities of some mosques were in violation of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000. It also said that the authorities have not taken any action in the matter despite several complaints. The petition also referred to the NGT's September 2017 order which directed the Delhi government and the DPCC to ensure that religious places in East Delhi followed the guidelines issued to keep a check on noise pollution.

Plea seeking ban on loudspeakers from mosques filed in NGT

Congress President Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter to inform "friends in the BJP social media"&nbsp; that he will be out of India for some days.

In his tweet on Sunday, Gandhi said he will be accompanying his mother and former party president Sonia Gandhi for her medical check-up.

The tweet&nbsp;specifically addressed to the "BJP social media troll army" was seen as an attempt to evade any kind of criticism from the opposition.

Rahul Gandhi has often been a subject of ridicule because of his foreign visits.

According to media reports, Sonia Gandhi along with her son will leave for abroad tonight.

While Rahul is expected to return within a week, Sonia Gandhi may have to&nbsp;stay out of India for a longer period.

Rahul Gandhi's tweet read,&nbsp;"Will be out of India for a few days, accompanying Sonia ji to her annual medical check up . To my friends in the BJP social media troll army: don’t get too worked up...I'll be back soon!"

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Will be out of India for a few days, accompanying Sonia ji to her annual medical check up. 
 
To my friends in the BJP social media troll army: don’t get too worked up...I'll be back soon!
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1000778403824336898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi's tweet read, 'Will be out of India for a few days, accompanying Sonia ji to her annual medical check up. To my friends in the BJP social media troll army: don’t get too worked up...I'll be back soon!'

Congress President Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter to inform "friends in the BJP social media" that he will be out of India for some days. In his tweet on Sunday, Gandhi said he will be accompanying his mother and former party president Sonia Gandhi for her medical check-up. The tweet specifically addressed to the "BJP social media troll army" was seen as an attempt to evade any kind of criticism from the opposition. Rahul Gandhi has often been a subject of ridicule because of his foreign visits. According to media reports, Sonia Gandhi along with her son will leave for abroad tonight. While Rahul is expected to return within a week, Sonia Gandhi may have to stay out of India for a longer period. Rahul Gandhi's tweet read, "Will be out of India for a few days, accompanying Sonia ji to her annual medical check up . To my friends in the BJP social media troll army: don’t get too worked up...I'll be back soon!" Will be out of India for a few days, accompanying Sonia ji to her annual medical check up. To my friends in the BJP social media troll army: don’t get too worked up...I'll be back soon! — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 27, 2018 ×

'Don't get worked up, I'll be back soon': Rahul to 'BJP troll army' on foreign trip

Easily one of the most-anticipated films of Bollywood, Ranbir Kapoor bowled over his father Rishi Kapoor, a veteran himself after he saw the trailer of his upcoming film “Sanju” -- a biopic on the life of star Sanjay Dutt.&nbsp;

The yet-to-be-released trailer was screened especially for the lead actor’s father, Rishi, earlier today by director Rajkumar Hirani and producer Vidhu Vinod Chopra.&nbsp;

Rishi was beyond pleased with son Ranbir after watching the film. Teary-eyed he said, "The way Rajkumar Hirani has presented Ranbir is the biggest superb thing, the boy has really done well. I am so proud of him. I swear on Neetu and Ranbir, I did not think it was Ranbir, I thought it was Sanjay Dutt."

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-was-offered-sunil-dutts-role-in-sanju-but-i-was-keen-on-playing-sanjay-dutt-aamir-khan-139250">Also read:&nbsp;Was offered Sunil Dutt's role in 'Sanju' but I was keen on playing Sanjay Dutt: Aamir Khan</a> 
 
He added, "You don't know how emotionally triggered I am right now at the point where Vinod (Chopra) and Raju (Rajkumar Hirani) have shown me this trailer. The first appearance of Ranbir from the jail, I thought it was Sanjay Dutt."

After praising Ranbir, Rishi then jokingly said, "I shouldn't praise him so much, He's good and still got to improve, and still got to do good work. I love you my boy (Ranbir)".

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The biopic “Sanju” depicts the various stages of Sanjay Dutt's life. So far, only the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-sanju-teaser-out-whos-playing-who-in-sanjay-dutts-biopic-132528">teaser</a> of the film has been released with the trailer scheduled for May 30.&nbsp;

The film is&nbsp;written and directed by Rajkumar Hirani, also stars Paresh Rawal, Manisha Koirala, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-sanju-new-poster-presenting-vicky-kaushal-as-ranbir-kapoors-best-friend-140355">Vicky Kaushal</a>, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-sanju-new-poster-does-sonam-kapoor-portray-madhuri-dixits-role-in-ranbir-kapoors-sanju--139628">Sonam Kapoor</a> and Dia Mirza amongst others. It will hit theatres on June 29.&nbsp;

'Sanju' is a biopic based on the life of Bollywood star Sanjay Dutt

Easily one of the most-anticipated films of Bollywood, Ranbir Kapoor bowled over his father Rishi Kapoor, a veteran himself after he saw the trailer of his upcoming film “Sanju” -- a biopic on the life of star Sanjay Dutt. The yet-to-be-released trailer was screened especially for the lead actor’s father, Rishi, earlier today by director Rajkumar Hirani and producer Vidhu Vinod Chopra. Rishi was beyond pleased with son Ranbir after watching the film. Teary-eyed he said, "The way Rajkumar Hirani has presented Ranbir is the biggest superb thing, the boy has really done well. I am so proud of him. I swear on Neetu and Ranbir, I did not think it was Ranbir, I thought it was Sanjay Dutt." Also read: Was offered Sunil Dutt's role in 'Sanju' but I was keen on playing Sanjay Dutt: Aamir Khan He added, "You don't know how emotionally triggered I am right now at the point where Vinod (Chopra) and Raju (Rajkumar Hirani) have shown me this trailer. The first appearance of Ranbir from the jail, I thought it was Sanjay Dutt." After praising Ranbir, Rishi then jokingly said, "I shouldn't praise him so much, He's good and still got to improve, and still got to do good work. I love you my boy (Ranbir)". Overwhelmed Rishi Kapoor post watching #Sanju trailer starring his son #ranbirkapoor #instalove #instadaily @manav.manglani A post shared by Manav Manglani (@manav.manglani) on May 28, 2018 at 3:28am PDT × The biopic “Sanju” depicts the various stages of Sanjay Dutt's life. So far, only the teaser of the film has been released with the trailer scheduled for May 30. The film is written and directed by Rajkumar Hirani, also stars Paresh Rawal, Manisha Koirala, Vicky Kaushal, Sonam Kapoor and Dia Mirza amongst others. It will hit theatres on June 29.

Watch: Teary-eyed Rishi Kapoor felt proud of Ranbir Kapoor after watching 'Sanju' trailer

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on Monday interact with the beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) through NaMo App.

Launched by Prime Minister Modi on May 1, 2016, in Uttar Pradesh's Ballia, Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana aims to safeguard the health of women and children by providing them with a clean cooking fuel - LPG. Ensuring women's empowerment, especially in rural India, the connections are issued in the name of women of the households.

Rs. 8000 crores&nbsp;has been allocated towards the implementation of the scheme. On a related note, on Sunday, on the occasion of his government completing four years at the Centre, Prime Minister Modi launched a survey on the NaMo App to gauge people's mood about his administration.

The survey enables people to rate the performance of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government as well as the performance of his flagship schemes and even the performance of the local MPs and MLAs.

The survey is designed to take the opinion of the people about the three most popular BJP leaders at the constituency and the state level. It asks people to rate their leaders'&nbsp;on the basis of their availability, honesty, humility and popularity.

The assessment-based survey allows the participants to tell about the prime considerations while voting and the condition of various amenities and infrastructure in their constituency.

The Prime Minister informed his followers about the survey on his&nbsp;Twitter handle.

The Prime Minister informed his followers about the survey on his Twitter handle

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on Monday interact with the beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) through NaMo App. Launched by Prime Minister Modi on May 1, 2016, in Uttar Pradesh's Ballia, Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana aims to safeguard the health of women and children by providing them with a clean cooking fuel - LPG. Ensuring women's empowerment, especially in rural India, the connections are issued in the name of women of the households. Rs. 8000 crores has been allocated towards the implementation of the scheme. On a related note, on Sunday, on the occasion of his government completing four years at the Centre, Prime Minister Modi launched a survey on the NaMo App to gauge people's mood about his administration. The survey enables people to rate the performance of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government as well as the performance of his flagship schemes and even the performance of the local MPs and MLAs. The survey is designed to take the opinion of the people about the three most popular BJP leaders at the constituency and the state level. It asks people to rate their leaders' on the basis of their availability, honesty, humility and popularity. The assessment-based survey allows the participants to tell about the prime considerations while voting and the condition of various amenities and infrastructure in their constituency. The Prime Minister informed his followers about the survey on his Twitter handle.

PM Modi to interact with Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana beneficiaries through NaMo App

The Tamil Nadu government on Monday ordered the permanent closure of the Sterlite copper smelting plant in Thoothukudi (Tuticorin) following the death of 13 people in police firing during anti-Sterlite protests there last week.&nbsp;

The Sterlite plant in Tuticorin is owned and operated by the Vedanta group.

The Government Order (GO) said it endorsed the recent closure direction of the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, and also asked the TNPCB to "seal the unit and close the plant permanently".

The document cited the Constitution's directive principles of state policy (Article 48-A) enjoining protection of environment and provisions of the Water Act, 1974, to order the permanent closure of the copper factory "in the larger public interest".

It referred to the PCB order of April 9 refusing to renew its consent to allow Vedanta's copper smelter plant at Tuticorin to operate.

The order recalled how on May 23 the TNPCB had issued directions for the closure of the unit and disconnection of power supply to it. The power supply was disconnected a day later.

Chief Minister K Palaniswami said the government has issued the GO in deference to the sentiments of the people.

The locals were protesting for the closure of the factory for 99 days. Protesters turned violent on May 22, the 100th day of their stir, and 13 people were killed in police action against them last Tuesday and Wednesday.

(With inputs from PTI)

The locals in the area had been on a three-month protest, which ended in tragedy last week as 13 protesters died in clash with police.

The Tamil Nadu government on Monday ordered the permanent closure of the Sterlite copper smelting plant in Thoothukudi (Tuticorin) following the death of 13 people in police firing during anti-Sterlite protests there last week. The Sterlite plant in Tuticorin is owned and operated by the Vedanta group. The Government Order (GO) said it endorsed the recent closure direction of the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, and also asked the TNPCB to "seal the unit and close the plant permanently". The document cited the Constitution's directive principles of state policy (Article 48-A) enjoining protection of environment and provisions of the Water Act, 1974, to order the permanent closure of the copper factory "in the larger public interest". It referred to the PCB order of April 9 refusing to renew its consent to allow Vedanta's copper smelter plant at Tuticorin to operate. The order recalled how on May 23 the TNPCB had issued directions for the closure of the unit and disconnection of power supply to it. The power supply was disconnected a day later. Chief Minister K Palaniswami said the government has issued the GO in deference to the sentiments of the people. The locals were protesting for the closure of the factory for 99 days. Protesters turned violent on May 22, the 100th day of their stir, and 13 people were killed in police action against them last Tuesday and Wednesday. (With inputs from PTI)

Tamil Nadu govt orders permanent closure of Sterlite plant after death of 13

As the death toll from deadly Nipah virus in Kerala has <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-death-toll-from-nipah-virus-rises-to-14-140144">mounted to 14</a>, samples of fruit-eating bats from Perambra would be sent for lab testing. Perambra town, located in the Kozhikode district of Kerala, is believed to be the epicentre of the Nipah virus. Fruit-eating bats are known as the primary hosts of the virus.&nbsp;

According to reports, samples of fruit-eating bats will be sent to the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal.

Experts from the National Institute of Virology, Pune and departments of Animal Husbandry and Forest have begun collecting the samples which would be sent to NIHSAD to test for the presence of the virus in the fruit-eating bats, Dr N N Sasi, Director Animal Husbandry, told PTI.

Earlier, samples of three bats -- caught from an unused well of the Moosa family which lost three members to Nipah virus -- were sent to the Bhopal laboratory for testing. Other samples from pigs, goats and cattle in the 5-kilometre radius of the affected area were also sent; all samples were tested negative.

"We are trying to catch fruit-eating bats from the Perambra region now," Sasi said.

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According to an official, the droppings, urine and secretions of the bats will also be sent for testing.

A Union Health Ministry advisory has said that the virus, which commonly affects animals such as bats, pigs, dogs, and horses, can spread to humans and cause serious illness. Spread of the virus to humans may occur after close contact with other Nipah infected people, infected bats, or infected pigs.

Meanwhile, Bihar, Sikkim, Madhya Pradesh, Puducherry, among other states, have issued advisories for people.&nbsp;

Fruit sellers in Kerala have <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/fruit-sellers-in-kerala-pay-a-price-for-the-deadly-nipah-virus-140178">faced the brunt of the deadly Nipah virus</a>. They say their incomes have been reduced as customers fear that fruits might be infected with the virus.

A fruit seller, Sulfi, told ANI, "Even though we are selling at half of the usual price, no one is willing to buy."

The death toll from the deadly Nipah virus on Sunday rose to 14 in Kerala after one more person died in Kozhikode. Most of the deaths reported are from Kozhikode and Malappuram districts.

The state government has also issued an advisory, asking travellers to avoid visiting the four districts of Kozhikode, Malappuram, Wayanad and Kannur.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Samples will be sent to the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal

As the death toll from deadly Nipah virus in Kerala has mounted to 14, samples of fruit-eating bats from Perambra would be sent for lab testing. Perambra town, located in the Kozhikode district of Kerala, is believed to be the epicentre of the Nipah virus. Fruit-eating bats are known as the primary hosts of the virus. According to reports, samples of fruit-eating bats will be sent to the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal. Experts from the National Institute of Virology, Pune and departments of Animal Husbandry and Forest have begun collecting the samples which would be sent to NIHSAD to test for the presence of the virus in the fruit-eating bats, Dr N N Sasi, Director Animal Husbandry, told PTI. Earlier, samples of three bats -- caught from an unused well of the Moosa family which lost three members to Nipah virus -- were sent to the Bhopal laboratory for testing. Other samples from pigs, goats and cattle in the 5-kilometre radius of the affected area were also sent; all samples were tested negative. "We are trying to catch fruit-eating bats from the Perambra region now," Sasi said. × According to an official, the droppings, urine and secretions of the bats will also be sent for testing. A Union Health Ministry advisory has said that the virus, which commonly affects animals such as bats, pigs, dogs, and horses, can spread to humans and cause serious illness. Spread of the virus to humans may occur after close contact with other Nipah infected people, infected bats, or infected pigs. Meanwhile, Bihar, Sikkim, Madhya Pradesh, Puducherry, among other states, have issued advisories for people. Fruit sellers in Kerala have faced the brunt of the deadly Nipah virus. They say their incomes have been reduced as customers fear that fruits might be infected with the virus. A fruit seller, Sulfi, told ANI, "Even though we are selling at half of the usual price, no one is willing to buy." The death toll from the deadly Nipah virus on Sunday rose to 14 in Kerala after one more person died in Kozhikode. Most of the deaths reported are from Kozhikode and Malappuram districts. The state government has also issued an advisory, asking travellers to avoid visiting the four districts of Kozhikode, Malappuram, Wayanad and Kannur. (With inputs from agencies)

Nipah virus: Sample of fruit-bats sent for testing as death toll mounts to 14 in Kerala

An Army jawan and a civilian were killed on Sunday night when terrorists attacked an Army camp in Pulwama district of south Kashmir, police said.

This is the first terror strike by terrorists after the Centre announced cessation of operations during the holy month of Ramzan.

Police said the terrorists attacked the camp of 50 Rashtriya Rifles at Kakapora in Pulwama district leaving a jawan seriously injured.

A civilian identified as Bilal Ahmed was also caught in the crossfire leaving him seriously injured.

Both were rushed to a hospital where the duo succumbed to their injuries. Authorities have clamped prohibitory orders in parts of Pulwama district.&nbsp

They said the fire was retaliated by the Army personnel.

Police said the terrorists attacked the camp of 50 Rashtriya Rifles at Kakapora in Pulwama

An Army jawan and a civilian were killed on Sunday night when terrorists attacked an Army camp in Pulwama district of south Kashmir, police said. This is the first terror strike by terrorists after the Centre announced cessation of operations during the holy month of Ramzan. Police said the terrorists attacked the camp of 50 Rashtriya Rifles at Kakapora in Pulwama district leaving a jawan seriously injured. A civilian identified as Bilal Ahmed was also caught in the crossfire leaving him seriously injured. Both were rushed to a hospital where the duo succumbed to their injuries. Authorities have clamped prohibitory orders in parts of Pulwama district. They said the fire was retaliated by the Army personnel.

J&K: Terrorists attack Army camp in Pulwama; 1 soldier, civilian killed

States can cut petrol price by Rs 2.65 per litre and diesel by Rs 2 a litre if they decide to forego potential additional gains out of high crude oil rates, an SBI report said today.

"Our analysis shows that at the current crude prices and extending our analysis to 19 states (overall consumption share is 93 per cent), the states could have gained at least an additional Rs 18,728 crore of revenue (in 2018-19)," said SBI's Ecowrap report.

It further said that states earn an additional revenue of Rs 2,675 crore over and above the budget estimates for every USD 1/barrel increase in oil prices.

"Given that these revenue if foregone will not impact states fiscal position, we estimate that on an average, states can cut petrol prices by Rs 2.65/litre and diesel by Rs 2/litre, if the entire revenue gain was to be neutralised. This is the most plausible scenario under the current circumstances," the report said.

It also said that one suggestion to further rationalise the petrol and diesel prices is to consider a pricing mechanism where VAT is imposed on base price only by states and not on prices inclusive of the Centre's tax.&nbsp

If this was the case, diesel prices could further reduce by Rs 3.75 a litre and petrol prices by Rs 5.75 per litre, it said. 
&nbsp 
"However, if this was to happen, the state will have to forego Rs 34,627 crore of tax revenue / 0.2 per cent of consolidated fiscal deficit of states," said Ecowrap.

On the other hand, if the Centre cuts the excise by Re 1, the loss of revenue will be to the tune of Rs 10,725 crore for every Re 1 cut in central excise and the amount will become twice if it cuts the excise duty by Rs 2.&nbsp

This will push up the deficit of Centre, unlike states, it added.

Petrol price has been hiked by Rs 3.64 a litre and diesel by Rs 3.24 in Delhi since state-owned oil firms ended a 19-day pre-Karnataka poll hiatus to resume daily price revision on May 14. The prices are at an all-time high.&nbsp

 
&nbsp

States can cut petrol price by Rs 2.65 per litre and diesel by Rs 2 a litre if they decide to forego potential additional gains out of high crude oil rates, an SBI report said

States can cut petrol price by Rs 2.65 per litre and diesel by Rs 2 a litre if they decide to forego potential additional gains out of high crude oil rates, an SBI report said today. "Our analysis shows that at the current crude prices and extending our analysis to 19 states (overall consumption share is 93 per cent), the states could have gained at least an additional Rs 18,728 crore of revenue (in 2018-19)," said SBI's Ecowrap report. It further said that states earn an additional revenue of Rs 2,675 crore over and above the budget estimates for every USD 1/barrel increase in oil prices. "Given that these revenue if foregone will not impact states fiscal position, we estimate that on an average, states can cut petrol prices by Rs 2.65/litre and diesel by Rs 2/litre, if the entire revenue gain was to be neutralised. This is the most plausible scenario under the current circumstances," the report said. It also said that one suggestion to further rationalise the petrol and diesel prices is to consider a pricing mechanism where VAT is imposed on base price only by states and not on prices inclusive of the Centre's tax. If this was the case, diesel prices could further reduce by Rs 3.75 a litre and petrol prices by Rs 5.75 per litre, it said. "However, if this was to happen, the state will have to forego Rs 34,627 crore of tax revenue / 0.2 per cent of consolidated fiscal deficit of states," said Ecowrap. On the other hand, if the Centre cuts the excise by Re 1, the loss of revenue will be to the tune of Rs 10,725 crore for every Re 1 cut in central excise and the amount will become twice if it cuts the excise duty by Rs 2. This will push up the deficit of Centre, unlike states, it added. Petrol price has been hiked by Rs 3.64 a litre and diesel by Rs 3.24 in Delhi since state-owned oil firms ended a 19-day pre-Karnataka poll hiatus to resume daily price revision on May 14. The prices are at an all-time high.

States can cut petrol price by Rs 2.65/litre by giving up additional gains: Report

Internet services in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu were restored yesterday. "The internet facility we are restoring it from tonight, the people can avail the facility without any problem," TK Rajendran, DGP, Tamil Nadu said.

"We assessed the existing situation and the officers and strength deployment, accordingly we are withdrawing some officer and strength but we are keeping the adequate strength to take care of peace in the entire district. I request people to cooperate in bringing back normalcy in the entire district," he added.

The death toll in the anti-Sterlite protests in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin climbed to 13 while more than 70 people were reported injured in Anti-Sterlite protests.

Internet services were suspended on May 23. Tuticorin's Superintendent of Police and the District Collector were transferred on the same day. The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court, last Wednesday, stayed the plant's planned expansion.

The foundation stone of Sterlite’s copper-smelting plant in Tamil Nadu's Thoothukudi district was laid by the late former chief minister of Tamil Nadu, J Jayalalithaa, in the year 1994.

For over two decades, locals here have been fighting cases in various courts to protest its ongoing operations stating that the plant causes severe air and water pollution and contaminates the soil. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Internet services were suspended on May 23

Internet services in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu were restored yesterday. "The internet facility we are restoring it from tonight, the people can avail the facility without any problem," TK Rajendran, DGP, Tamil Nadu said. "We assessed the existing situation and the officers and strength deployment, accordingly we are withdrawing some officer and strength but we are keeping the adequate strength to take care of peace in the entire district. I request people to cooperate in bringing back normalcy in the entire district," he added. The death toll in the anti-Sterlite protests in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin climbed to 13 while more than 70 people were reported injured in Anti-Sterlite protests. Internet services were suspended on May 23. Tuticorin's Superintendent of Police and the District Collector were transferred on the same day. The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court, last Wednesday, stayed the plant's planned expansion. The foundation stone of Sterlite’s copper-smelting plant in Tamil Nadu's Thoothukudi district was laid by the late former chief minister of Tamil Nadu, J Jayalalithaa, in the year 1994. For over two decades, locals here have been fighting cases in various courts to protest its ongoing operations stating that the plant causes severe air and water pollution and contaminates the soil. (With inputs from agencies)

Anti-Sterlite protests: Internet services restored in Tuticorin 

Sonam Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan along with co-actors Swara Bhasker and Shikha Talsania are busy promoting their upcoming film “Veere Di Wedding” which is scheduled to release on June 1.

In one of the promotions when Kareena declared that she is not a feminist, all hell broke loose as social media users got together to troll the “Bajrangi Bhaijaan” actress. As momentum against her statement has grown ever since, there is someone else too who threw a shade at the actress recently and it’s none other than her ‘good friend’ and co-star Sonam Kapoor.&nbsp;

When asked what she thought about Kareena claiming to not be a feminist, Sonam matter-of-factly said, “When women say that they are not a feminist, it is very sad and ignorant."

Sonam went on to explain what feminism means and said, "Feminism just means equal opportunity and equality to have the same privileges and choices as a man would have and I don't think there is anything wrong with that."

Kareena at an earlier <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-i-believe-in-equality-not-a-feminist-kareena-kapoor-139254">promotional event</a> for “Veere Di Wedding” said, "I believe in equality. I wouldn't say I am a feminist, I would say I am a woman and above all, I am a human being. I am also as proud to be known as Saif Ali Khan's wife, as I am to be Kareena Kapoor. So that is just the way I am."&nbsp;

At an earlier occasion, Kareena said 'I believe in equality, not a feminist'

Sonam Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan along with co-actors Swara Bhasker and Shikha Talsania are busy promoting their upcoming film “Veere Di Wedding” which is scheduled to release on June 1. In one of the promotions when Kareena declared that she is not a feminist, all hell broke loose as social media users got together to troll the “Bajrangi Bhaijaan” actress. As momentum against her statement has grown ever since, there is someone else too who threw a shade at the actress recently and it’s none other than her ‘good friend’ and co-star Sonam Kapoor. When asked what she thought about Kareena claiming to not be a feminist, Sonam matter-of-factly said, “When women say that they are not a feminist, it is very sad and ignorant." Sonam went on to explain what feminism means and said, "Feminism just means equal opportunity and equality to have the same privileges and choices as a man would have and I don't think there is anything wrong with that." Kareena at an earlier promotional event for “Veere Di Wedding” said, "I believe in equality. I wouldn't say I am a feminist, I would say I am a woman and above all, I am a human being. I am also as proud to be known as Saif Ali Khan's wife, as I am to be Kareena Kapoor. So that is just the way I am."

Sonam Kapoor took a dig at her 'Veere' Kareena Kapoor for saying she's 'not a feminist'!

Three Naxalites were killed and two surrendered in an encounter with the Central Reserve Police Force and the Jharkhand Police in Jharkhand's Palamu district.

The same day, 12 Naxals were arrested from separate places in Chhattisgarh's insurgency-hit Bijapur district, police said.

Bijapur Superintendent of Police Mohit Garg told PTI that six Naxals were apprehended from the forest near Dalla village under Basaguda police station limits, five from areas falling under Bedre police station and one from Tarnichhilpatpara in Jangla village.

Six Naxals were nabbed after a joint team of the Central Reserve Police Forces (CRPF) 168th battalion and District Force acted on a tip-off and launched a search operation near Dalla in Basaguda, he said.

Basaguda is located about 450 kilometres from the state capital.

The Naxal insurgency, considered India's most serious internal security threat, has claimed around 10,000 lives since it started in the 1960s.

Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh are a part of the so-called red corridor that passes through resource-rich areas of central, southern, western and eastern India and is mostly inhabited by underprivileged tribes.

Naxalites say they are fighting for the rights of marginalised tribal groups.

Naxalites operate from jungle bases but often descend on villages to demand protection money and recruit young men and women to their ranks.

(With inputs from agencies)

The same day, 12 Naxals were arrested from separate places in Chhattisgarh's insurgency-hit Bijapur district, police said

Three Naxalites were killed and two surrendered in an encounter with the Central Reserve Police Force and the Jharkhand Police in Jharkhand's Palamu district. The same day, 12 Naxals were arrested from separate places in Chhattisgarh's insurgency-hit Bijapur district, police said. Bijapur Superintendent of Police Mohit Garg told PTI that six Naxals were apprehended from the forest near Dalla village under Basaguda police station limits, five from areas falling under Bedre police station and one from Tarnichhilpatpara in Jangla village. Six Naxals were nabbed after a joint team of the Central Reserve Police Forces (CRPF) 168th battalion and District Force acted on a tip-off and launched a search operation near Dalla in Basaguda, he said. Basaguda is located about 450 kilometres from the state capital. The Naxal insurgency, considered India's most serious internal security threat, has claimed around 10,000 lives since it started in the 1960s. Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh are a part of the so-called red corridor that passes through resource-rich areas of central, southern, western and eastern India and is mostly inhabited by underprivileged tribes. Naxalites say they are fighting for the rights of marginalised tribal groups. Naxalites operate from jungle bases but often descend on villages to demand protection money and recruit young men and women to their ranks. (With inputs from agencies)

3 Naxals killed in encounter with security forces in Jharkhand

Amid the US plan to scrap a rule allowing spouses of H-1B visa holders to work legally in the country, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said on Monday the government would make all efforts to persuade the Trump administration against such a move.

The Trump administration is planning to end the Obama-era rule under which spouses of H1-B visa holders are given work permit or H-4 visa, a move that could affect more than 70,000 such visa holders. A significantly large number of these H-4 visa holders are high-skilled professionals from India.

Addressing her annual press conference in New Delhi, Swaraj, when asked about the US plan, said it was true that President Donald Trump was reviewing the H-4 visa programme and there were reports of its possible revocation.

"This is not just for H-4, I am also talking about H1-B visa as well. We are making a three-pronged effort to save these visas. We are talking to the White House, we are talking to state administration, and we are also talking to Congressmen and Senators," Swaraj said.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/90000-foreigners-rescued-by-india-in-4-years-proof-of-our-humane-foreign-policy-sushma-swaraj-140366">Terror and talks cannot go together — Sushma Swaraj on Pakistan</a>

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This has yielded results as 130 members of Parliament, both Congressmen and Senators, have written a letter to Trump asking him not to revoke H-4 visas, stating that the American economy will be jolted by it, she said.

"We are trying our best to save H1-B visas, H4 visas. But America is a sovereign country. Ultimately they have to decide. How successful we will be, will be decided in the future. But I assure the country from this platform that we would not spare any effort," she said.

The H-4 visa holders had obtained work permits under a special order issued by the previous Obama administration.

Indian-Americans were a major beneficiary of this provision. More than 100,000 H-4 visa holders have benefited from this rule.

The 2015 rule allowed work permits for spouses who otherwise could not be employed while H-1B visa holders seek permanent resident status -- a process that can take a decade or longer.

&nbsp;

The Trump administration is planning to end the Obama-era rule under which spouses of H1-B visa holders are given work permit or H-4 visa, a move that could affect more than 70,000 such visa holders. A significantly large number of these H-4 visa holders are high-skilled professionals from India

Amid the US plan to scrap a rule allowing spouses of H-1B visa holders to work legally in the country, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said on Monday the government would make all efforts to persuade the Trump administration against such a move. The Trump administration is planning to end the Obama-era rule under which spouses of H1-B visa holders are given work permit or H-4 visa, a move that could affect more than 70,000 such visa holders. A significantly large number of these H-4 visa holders are high-skilled professionals from India. Addressing her annual press conference in New Delhi, Swaraj, when asked about the US plan, said it was true that President Donald Trump was reviewing the H-4 visa programme and there were reports of its possible revocation. "This is not just for H-4, I am also talking about H1-B visa as well. We are making a three-pronged effort to save these visas. We are talking to the White House, we are talking to state administration, and we are also talking to Congressmen and Senators," Swaraj said. Also read: Terror and talks cannot go together — Sushma Swaraj on Pakistan × This has yielded results as 130 members of Parliament, both Congressmen and Senators, have written a letter to Trump asking him not to revoke H-4 visas, stating that the American economy will be jolted by it, she said. "We are trying our best to save H1-B visas, H4 visas. But America is a sovereign country. Ultimately they have to decide. How successful we will be, will be decided in the future. But I assure the country from this platform that we would not spare any effort," she said. The H-4 visa holders had obtained work permits under a special order issued by the previous Obama administration. Indian-Americans were a major beneficiary of this provision. More than 100,000 H-4 visa holders have benefited from this rule. The 2015 rule allowed work permits for spouses who otherwise could not be employed while H-1B visa holders seek permanent resident status -- a process that can take a decade or longer.

Would spare no effort to persuade US: Swaraj on plans to end work permits for H-1B spouses

The by-elections to Palghar and Bhandara-Gondia Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra will be held on May 28 for which all four major parties have pulled out all stops as the outcome is likely to have a bearing on their future course.&nbsp;

The Shiv Sena has fielded late BJP MP Chintaman Wanaga's son Shriniwas Wanaga in Palghar, much to the dislike of the BJP which has in-turn nominated Congress deserter Rajendra Gavit.

During the bitter poll campaign, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray launched an all-out attack on&nbsp;ally BJP.

In a veiled attack on the BJP, he called upon opposition parties to fight unitedly against the "calamity which has befallen the country".

"I want to tell the Congress, the NCP, even communists, don't go separate ways...Let's come together to fight the calamity which has befallen the country. Otherwise, by the time we realise it, it would be too late," Thackeray said at a campaign rally.

However, state Congress chief Ashok Chavan said his party will have nothing to do with the Sena.

"We both are ideologically different. We feel both saffron partners will join hands for the 2019 polls, otherwise, they will fight independently and come together for post-poll alliance, just like they did in 2014. Their strategy is to criticise each other and get more votes," he said.

The by-poll in Palghar was necessitated due to the death of sitting BJP MP Chintaman Wanaga in January this year.

In Bhandra-Gondia, Nana Patole quit as the BJP MP and resigned from the ruling party to return to the Congress earlier this year, necessitating the by-election.

The BJP is confident of retaining the two seats while the opposition feels setbacks to the ruling party in the by-poll would boost the vigour of the "anti-BJP camp"&nbsp;and lead to new alignments in state politics.

The ruling party has locked horns with the NCP for retaining the Bhandara-Gondia Lok Sabha seat while in Palghar, it is in a direct fight with the ally Shiv Sena even though the contest is multi-cornered.

As many as 18 candidates are in fray in Bhandara- Gondia and seven in Palghar. There are total 3,49,1218 voters.

In Palghar, out of the 2,097 polling booths, 14 are listed as critical, while in Bhandara-Gondia, out of 2,149 polling booths, 71 are situated in Naxal-hit areas and 113 are listed as critical.

The electioneering in Palghar witnessed a face-off between the Shiv Sena and the BJP while the Congress and the NCP have aligned for the bypolls.

Political analysts say the NCP and the Congress have realised their folly of going separate ways in 2014 Maharashtra Assembly elections as it benefited the BJP and the Shiv Sena since both performed well.

"Both the saffron parties did well due to the 'Modi wave' at national level and the 15-year anti-incumbency against the Congress-NCP regime. Now, times are changing," they feel.

In Palghar, the main fight is between the Shiv Sena and the BJP. However, there is a multi-cornered contest with Damodar Shindga of the Congress and Baliram Jadhav of the Bahujan Vikas Agadhi and a candidate of the CPM also in fray.

The Palghar Lok Sabha constituency, a reserved seat for Scheduled Tribe (ST), situated on the outskirts of Mumbai, was created in 2008 after delimitation of constituencies.

The voters in the constituency are spread across urban belts of Vasai, Nalasopara, Palghar and the tribal areas of Dahanu, Vikramgad and Boisar.

The BJP roped-in its central ministers like Smriti Irani and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for campaigning.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also camped in Palghar and addressed several rallies.

In Bhandara-Gondia, the NCP has fielded Madhukar Kukde while the BJP has nominated Hemant Patle. Even though there are a total of 18 candidates in Bhandara-Gondia, the main contest is said to be between the BJP and the NCP.

The Congress leaders in the constituency are apparently miffed with the party's decision of giving the seat to the NCP (as part of tie-up agreement) despite Nana Patole returning to the Congress fold.

Patole had defeated NCP leader Praful Patel from the seat in 2014. Patel had represented the seat earlier in the Lok Sabha.

Congress spokesman Ratnakar Mahajan claimed Patole was the victim of lack of inner party democracy in the BJP.

"The by-election is an occasion for voters to rethink about their support to the BJP which had promised employment generation and controlling price rise," he said.

Mahajan said the results will be a "fresh mandate" on the performance of the Modi government.

"The outcome of the bypolls will lead to new political alignments. There will be a new vigour in the anti-BJP camp if the ruling party loses both seats. The consolidation of democratic and secular forces will go one step ahead."

But if the BJP succeeds in both or one of the seats, the opposition parties will have to work harder to make people realise their disillusionment with the government, he said.

However, BJP spokesman Madhav Bhandari said the bypolls in the two constituencies were being fought on local issues and politics.

"The state's political equations don't come into picture. The Shiv Sena is not at all in the race in Palghar. The hype created in the media has no bearing on the ground," Bhandari said.

"Since the BJP will retain both the seats, the possibility of alignment of political forces post the results does not arise," he added.&nbsp;

Counting of votes will be undertaken on May 31.

The by-elections to Palghar and Bhandara-Gondia Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra will be held on May 28 for which all four major parties have pulled out all stops as the outcome is likely to have a bearing on their future course

The by-elections to Palghar and Bhandara-Gondia Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra will be held on May 28 for which all four major parties have pulled out all stops as the outcome is likely to have a bearing on their future course. The Shiv Sena has fielded late BJP MP Chintaman Wanaga's son Shriniwas Wanaga in Palghar, much to the dislike of the BJP which has in-turn nominated Congress deserter Rajendra Gavit. During the bitter poll campaign, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray launched an all-out attack on ally BJP. In a veiled attack on the BJP, he called upon opposition parties to fight unitedly against the "calamity which has befallen the country". "I want to tell the Congress, the NCP, even communists, don't go separate ways...Let's come together to fight the calamity which has befallen the country. Otherwise, by the time we realise it, it would be too late," Thackeray said at a campaign rally. However, state Congress chief Ashok Chavan said his party will have nothing to do with the Sena. "We both are ideologically different. We feel both saffron partners will join hands for the 2019 polls, otherwise, they will fight independently and come together for post-poll alliance, just like they did in 2014. Their strategy is to criticise each other and get more votes," he said. The by-poll in Palghar was necessitated due to the death of sitting BJP MP Chintaman Wanaga in January this year. In Bhandra-Gondia, Nana Patole quit as the BJP MP and resigned from the ruling party to return to the Congress earlier this year, necessitating the by-election. The BJP is confident of retaining the two seats while the opposition feels setbacks to the ruling party in the by-poll would boost the vigour of the "anti-BJP camp" and lead to new alignments in state politics. The ruling party has locked horns with the NCP for retaining the Bhandara-Gondia Lok Sabha seat while in Palghar, it is in a direct fight with the ally Shiv Sena even though the contest is multi-cornered. As many as 18 candidates are in fray in Bhandara- Gondia and seven in Palghar. There are total 3,49,1218 voters. In Palghar, out of the 2,097 polling booths, 14 are listed as critical, while in Bhandara-Gondia, out of 2,149 polling booths, 71 are situated in Naxal-hit areas and 113 are listed as critical. The electioneering in Palghar witnessed a face-off between the Shiv Sena and the BJP while the Congress and the NCP have aligned for the bypolls. Political analysts say the NCP and the Congress have realised their folly of going separate ways in 2014 Maharashtra Assembly elections as it benefited the BJP and the Shiv Sena since both performed well. "Both the saffron parties did well due to the 'Modi wave' at national level and the 15-year anti-incumbency against the Congress-NCP regime. Now, times are changing," they feel. In Palghar, the main fight is between the Shiv Sena and the BJP. However, there is a multi-cornered contest with Damodar Shindga of the Congress and Baliram Jadhav of the Bahujan Vikas Agadhi and a candidate of the CPM also in fray. The Palghar Lok Sabha constituency, a reserved seat for Scheduled Tribe (ST), situated on the outskirts of Mumbai, was created in 2008 after delimitation of constituencies. The voters in the constituency are spread across urban belts of Vasai, Nalasopara, Palghar and the tribal areas of Dahanu, Vikramgad and Boisar. The BJP roped-in its central ministers like Smriti Irani and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for campaigning. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also camped in Palghar and addressed several rallies. In Bhandara-Gondia, the NCP has fielded Madhukar Kukde while the BJP has nominated Hemant Patle. Even though there are a total of 18 candidates in Bhandara-Gondia, the main contest is said to be between the BJP and the NCP. The Congress leaders in the constituency are apparently miffed with the party's decision of giving the seat to the NCP (as part of tie-up agreement) despite Nana Patole returning to the Congress fold. Patole had defeated NCP leader Praful Patel from the seat in 2014. Patel had represented the seat earlier in the Lok Sabha. Congress spokesman Ratnakar Mahajan claimed Patole was the victim of lack of inner party democracy in the BJP. "The by-election is an occasion for voters to rethink about their support to the BJP which had promised employment generation and controlling price rise," he said. Mahajan said the results will be a "fresh mandate" on the performance of the Modi government. "The outcome of the bypolls will lead to new political alignments. There will be a new vigour in the anti-BJP camp if the ruling party loses both seats. The consolidation of democratic and secular forces will go one step ahead." But if the BJP succeeds in both or one of the seats, the opposition parties will have to work harder to make people realise their disillusionment with the government, he said. However, BJP spokesman Madhav Bhandari said the bypolls in the two constituencies were being fought on local issues and politics. "The state's political equations don't come into picture. The Shiv Sena is not at all in the race in Palghar. The hype created in the media has no bearing on the ground," Bhandari said. "Since the BJP will retain both the seats, the possibility of alignment of political forces post the results does not arise," he added. Counting of votes will be undertaken on May 31.

Maharashtra by-polls: Keen contest on cards in 2 Lok Sabha seats

Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy said on Monday that he was committed to wive farm loans and was ready with guidelines.

The Karnataka chief minister said he would retire from politics if he was unable to waive off the farmer's loans.

"Committed to waive farm loans, else will retire from politics. I'm ready with guidelines," said Kumaraswamy.

&nbspAs many as 3,515 farmers have committed suicide between April 2013 and November 2017 in Karnataka.

A majority of these suicides have been because of drought and farm failure as per the statistics provided by the State Agriculture Department.&nbsp

The previous Siddaramaiah-led Congress government had taken steps that included asking banks not to force farmers to repay their dues and turn their short and medium-term crop loans into long-term loans with the waiver of interest. However, the government was accused of failing to solve the agrarian crisis.

 
&nbsp

The Karnataka chief minister said he ready with guidelines on farmers' loans

Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy said on Monday that he was committed to wive farm loans and was ready with guidelines. The Karnataka chief minister said he would retire from politics if he was unable to waive off the farmer's loans. "Committed to waive farm loans, else will retire from politics. I'm ready with guidelines," said Kumaraswamy. &nbspAs many as 3,515 farmers have committed suicide between April 2013 and November 2017 in Karnataka. A majority of these suicides have been because of drought and farm failure as per the statistics provided by the State Agriculture Department. The previous Siddaramaiah-led Congress government had taken steps that included asking banks not to force farmers to repay their dues and turn their short and medium-term crop loans into long-term loans with the waiver of interest. However, the government was accused of failing to solve the agrarian crisis.

Will waive farmers' loans or leave politics: Karnataka CM Kumaraswamy

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/90000-foreigners-rescued-by-india-in-4-years-proof-of-our-humane-foreign-policy-sushma-swaraj-140366">When people are dying on the border, </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/90000-foreigners-rescued-by-india-in-4-years-proof-of-our-humane-foreign-policy-sushma-swaraj-140366">dialogue</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/90000-foreigners-rescued-by-india-in-4-years-proof-of-our-humane-foreign-policy-sushma-swaraj-140366"> is not appropriate: Sushma Swaraj on Pakistan</a>

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj addressed an annual press conference on Monday in which she highlighted the achievements made by the Modi government over the past 4 years.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/this-retired-english-teacher-made-corrections-to-a-letter-sent-by-trump-and-mailed-it-back--140397">This retired English teacher made corrections to a letter sent by Trump and mailed it back</a>

A retired English teacher from the United States did not give any consideration to the fact that the letter she had received, had come from the White House and after being astounded by the grammatical mistakes made the rightful changes and sent it back.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ireland-abortion-law-may-be-termed-as-the-savitas-law-140367">Ireland abortion law may be termed as 'Savita's law'</a>

After Ireland welcomed the abortion vote, campaigners have said that they will be in full support if the new law will be named after the woman who died after miscarriage - Savita Halappanavar.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-foreign-minister-urges-on-strengthening-relations-with-india-140375">Iran Foreign Minister urges on strengthening relations with India</a>

Iranian Foreign Minister Dr Mohammad Javad Zarif, who arrived here on Monday on a one-day visit, stressed upon the idea of strengthening relations shared by the two countries.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-military-says-ex-spy-chief-will-not-be-allowed-to-leave-country-140413">Pakistan military says ex-spy chief will not be allowed to leave </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-military-says-ex-spy-chief-will-not-be-allowed-to-leave-country-140413">country</a>

Pakistan's military Monday took the unprecedented step of preventing a former spy chief from leaving the country, after he ignited a storm by co-authoring a book that touches on Pakistan's alleged roles in Afghanistan and Kashmir.

When people are dying on the border, dialogue is not appropriate: Sushma Swaraj on Pakistan External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj addressed an annual press conference on Monday in which she highlighted the achievements made by the Modi government over the past 4 years. This retired English teacher made corrections to a letter sent by Trump and mailed it back A retired English teacher from the United States did not give any consideration to the fact that the letter she had received, had come from the White House and after being astounded by the grammatical mistakes made the rightful changes and sent it back. Ireland abortion law may be termed as 'Savita's law' After Ireland welcomed the abortion vote, campaigners have said that they will be in full support if the new law will be named after the woman who died after miscarriage - Savita Halappanavar. Iran Foreign Minister urges on strengthening relations with India Iranian Foreign Minister Dr Mohammad Javad Zarif, who arrived here on Monday on a one-day visit, stressed upon the idea of strengthening relations shared by the two countries. Pakistan military says ex-spy chief will not be allowed to leave country Pakistan's military Monday took the unprecedented step of preventing a former spy chief from leaving the country, after he ignited a storm by co-authoring a book that touches on Pakistan's alleged roles in Afghanistan and Kashmir.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The expected arrival on time of the southwest monsoon over India`s mainland as well as a fall in global crude oil prices lifted the key domestic equity indices for the third consecutive session on Monday.

According to market analysts, the rebound in rupee strength and healthy buying by domestic investors also supported the key indices.

The BSE benchmark Sensex surged about 241 points to end at 35,165.48 and the NSE Nifty gained 84 points to close at 10,688.65.&nbsp

Among the Sensex constituents, Sun Pharma, Coal India, L&T, Asian Paints and SBI emerged as the top five gainers. Sector-wise, pharma, bank, auto and FMCG led the gains.&nbsp

A widening of positions by retail investors amid continued buying by domestic institutional investors (DIIs) kept the bullish sentiment intact.

In the Asian markets too, a firming trend was seen today as geopolitical worries eased after the US and North Korean officials met to resume preparations for a summit between the leaders of the two countries. &nbsp &nbsp

In yet another positive sign, prices of Brent crude -- an international benchmark for crude oil — fell further by 1.88 per cent to USD 75 per barrel in global markets.

On Friday, Brent sank 3 per cent and WTI fell 4 per cent, and in early Asia business, they were both down a further 2 per cent. &nbsp &nbsp

Further lifting investors' mood, the rupee today strengthened by 49 paise to 67.29 (intra-day) against the dollar at the interbank forex market today. 
&nbsp &nbsp &nbsp 
"Fall in oil price in expectation of more supply from OPEC and improved optimism on US and N. Korea summit influenced the market to rally.On domestic front, 10-year yield inched lower while rupee gained some traction which will give cushion on inflation front and fiscal path," Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services Ltd, said.&nbsp

He said that additionally, market optimism may increase as monsoon is about to hit the southern peninsula regions which will support the consumption-led story and rural economy.&nbsp

Driven by capital goods, oil and gas, PSU and healthcare, the flagship Sensex reclaimed the 35,000-mark at the outset to hit a high of 35,240.96 before settling at 35,165.48, up 240.61 points, or 0.69 per cent. It also touched a low of 35,006.50.

The gauge had climbed 579.96 points in the previous two days. 
For the 50-share NSE Nifty, the closing came in at 10,688.65, higher by 83.50 points, or 0.79 per cent, after hovering between 10,709.80 and 10,640.55.

Stocks of state-run oil marketing and aviation companies were in the limelight after crude oil prices dropped in global markets. HPCL, BPCL and IOC gained by up to 6.10 per cent per cent after global crude corrected to USD 75 a barrel from the 2018 high of USD 80.50 a barrel.

In the aviation space, Spicejet Ltd climbed 20 per cent, Jet Airways up 7.67 per cent, while InterGlobe Aviation gained 2.38 per cent. 
Domestic financial institutions continued to hold ground and retail investors built up more bets amid a firming Asian trend.

Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) picked up shares worth a net Rs 887.76 crore on Friday. Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) exited, pulling out shares amounting to Rs 768.29 crore on a net basis, showed provisional data.

During the session, stocks of automakers attracted investors' attention ahead of sale numbers data for May later this week.

Sun Pharma topped the Sensex list by surging 7.11 per cent after the drug maker on Friday posted 6.96 per cent increase in its consolidated net profit at Rs 1,308.96 crore for the fourth quarter ended March 2018.

State-run power giant NTPC ended higher by 1.36 per cent after the company today posted 40.69 per cent jump in its standalone net profit at Rs 2,925.59 crore for the quarter ended on March 31, 2018.

Other big movers of the day were Coal India rose 3.22 per cent, L&T 2.52 per cent, Asian Paint 2.31 per cent, SBI 1.97 per cent, Maruti Suzuki 1.86 per cent, Yes Bank 1.52 per cent, HDFC Bank 1.52 per cent, Axis Bank 1.49 per cent, Tata Steel 1.48 per cent, Bajaj Auto 1.45 per cent, Hero MotoCorp 1.30 per cent, ITC Ltd 1.18 per cent, Dr Reddy's 0.97 per cent.&nbsp

Among other gainers were ICICI Bank 0.93 per cent, Tata Motors 0.68 per cent, HDFC Ltd 0.57 per cent, Hind Unilever 0.39 per cent and ONGC 0.34 per cent.

However, tech stocks such as TCS fell 0.39 per cent, Infosys 1.16 per cent and Wipro 0.60 per cent on worries that a stronger rupee could hit returns from the US market, the biggest source of revenue for Indian IT companies. 
As for sectoral indices, the BSE capital goods took the lead by rising 2.50 per cent, followed by oil & gas 2.47 per cent, PSU (2.45 pc), healthcare (2.11 pc), realty (1.58 pc), power (1.25 pc), bankex (1.18 pc), infrastructure (1.16 pc), auto (1.12 pc), metal (0.95 pc), FMCG (0.55 pc) and consumer durables (0.09 pc).

While IT index lost 1.72 per cent following more appreciation in rupee's value, while teck ended 1.33 per cent down.

Broader markets such as small-cap and mid-cap indices too rallied in step with key indices, surging by 1.60 per cent and 1.35 per cent, respectively.&nbsp 
In the Asian region, Hong Kong's Hang Seng rose 0.72 per cent, while Japan's Nikkei gained 0.13 per cent. Taiwan up 0.42 per cent, while Singapore rose 0.20 per cent but China's Shanghai Composite Index shed 0.20 per cent.

Key indices in Europe were in a better shape in their early session. Frankfurt's DAX was up 0.59 per cent and Paris CAC 40 gained 0.46 per cent.

(With inputs from PTI)

Among the Sensex constituents, Sun Pharma, Coal India, L&T, Asian Paints and SBI emerged as the top five gainers.

The expected arrival on time of the southwest monsoon over India`s mainland as well as a fall in global crude oil prices lifted the key domestic equity indices for the third consecutive session on Monday. According to market analysts, the rebound in rupee strength and healthy buying by domestic investors also supported the key indices. The BSE benchmark Sensex surged about 241 points to end at 35,165.48 and the NSE Nifty gained 84 points to close at 10,688.65. Among the Sensex constituents, Sun Pharma, Coal India, L&T, Asian Paints and SBI emerged as the top five gainers. Sector-wise, pharma, bank, auto and FMCG led the gains. A widening of positions by retail investors amid continued buying by domestic institutional investors (DIIs) kept the bullish sentiment intact. In the Asian markets too, a firming trend was seen today as geopolitical worries eased after the US and North Korean officials met to resume preparations for a summit between the leaders of the two countries. In yet another positive sign, prices of Brent crude -- an international benchmark for crude oil — fell further by 1.88 per cent to USD 75 per barrel in global markets. On Friday, Brent sank 3 per cent and WTI fell 4 per cent, and in early Asia business, they were both down a further 2 per cent. Further lifting investors' mood, the rupee today strengthened by 49 paise to 67.29 (intra-day) against the dollar at the interbank forex market today. "Fall in oil price in expectation of more supply from OPEC and improved optimism on US and N. Korea summit influenced the market to rally.On domestic front, 10-year yield inched lower while rupee gained some traction which will give cushion on inflation front and fiscal path," Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services Ltd, said. He said that additionally, market optimism may increase as monsoon is about to hit the southern peninsula regions which will support the consumption-led story and rural economy. Driven by capital goods, oil and gas, PSU and healthcare, the flagship Sensex reclaimed the 35,000-mark at the outset to hit a high of 35,240.96 before settling at 35,165.48, up 240.61 points, or 0.69 per cent. It also touched a low of 35,006.50. The gauge had climbed 579.96 points in the previous two days. For the 50-share NSE Nifty, the closing came in at 10,688.65, higher by 83.50 points, or 0.79 per cent, after hovering between 10,709.80 and 10,640.55. Stocks of state-run oil marketing and aviation companies were in the limelight after crude oil prices dropped in global markets. HPCL, BPCL and IOC gained by up to 6.10 per cent per cent after global crude corrected to USD 75 a barrel from the 2018 high of USD 80.50 a barrel. In the aviation space, Spicejet Ltd climbed 20 per cent, Jet Airways up 7.67 per cent, while InterGlobe Aviation gained 2.38 per cent. Domestic financial institutions continued to hold ground and retail investors built up more bets amid a firming Asian trend. Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) picked up shares worth a net Rs 887.76 crore on Friday. Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) exited, pulling out shares amounting to Rs 768.29 crore on a net basis, showed provisional data. During the session, stocks of automakers attracted investors' attention ahead of sale numbers data for May later this week. Sun Pharma topped the Sensex list by surging 7.11 per cent after the drug maker on Friday posted 6.96 per cent increase in its consolidated net profit at Rs 1,308.96 crore for the fourth quarter ended March 2018. State-run power giant NTPC ended higher by 1.36 per cent after the company today posted 40.69 per cent jump in its standalone net profit at Rs 2,925.59 crore for the quarter ended on March 31, 2018. Other big movers of the day were Coal India rose 3.22 per cent, L&T 2.52 per cent, Asian Paint 2.31 per cent, SBI 1.97 per cent, Maruti Suzuki 1.86 per cent, Yes Bank 1.52 per cent, HDFC Bank 1.52 per cent, Axis Bank 1.49 per cent, Tata Steel 1.48 per cent, Bajaj Auto 1.45 per cent, Hero MotoCorp 1.30 per cent, ITC Ltd 1.18 per cent, Dr Reddy's 0.97 per cent. Among other gainers were ICICI Bank 0.93 per cent, Tata Motors 0.68 per cent, HDFC Ltd 0.57 per cent, Hind Unilever 0.39 per cent and ONGC 0.34 per cent. However, tech stocks such as TCS fell 0.39 per cent, Infosys 1.16 per cent and Wipro 0.60 per cent on worries that a stronger rupee could hit returns from the US market, the biggest source of revenue for Indian IT companies. As for sectoral indices, the BSE capital goods took the lead by rising 2.50 per cent, followed by oil & gas 2.47 per cent, PSU (2.45 pc), healthcare (2.11 pc), realty (1.58 pc), power (1.25 pc), bankex (1.18 pc), infrastructure (1.16 pc), auto (1.12 pc), metal (0.95 pc), FMCG (0.55 pc) and consumer durables (0.09 pc). While IT index lost 1.72 per cent following more appreciation in rupee's value, while teck ended 1.33 per cent down. Broader markets such as small-cap and mid-cap indices too rallied in step with key indices, surging by 1.60 per cent and 1.35 per cent, respectively. In the Asian region, Hong Kong's Hang Seng rose 0.72 per cent, while Japan's Nikkei gained 0.13 per cent. Taiwan up 0.42 per cent, while Singapore rose 0.20 per cent but China's Shanghai Composite Index shed 0.20 per cent. Key indices in Europe were in a better shape in their early session. Frankfurt's DAX was up 0.59 per cent and Paris CAC 40 gained 0.46 per cent. (With inputs from PTI)

Sensex surges 240 points, Nifty settles at 10,688; rupee recovers

Hitting out at the newly appointed chief minister of Karnataka on Monday the BJP called him as "chief manager (CM)" of the Congress.

Party spokesperson Sambit Patra said that for the Congress, Karnataka was its ATM and it had found a chief manager in Kumaraswamy.

He also added that the CM was "lying prostrate at the feet of the Gandhi family".

Referring to the residential address of the former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi, he added that the government in the southern state would be run from Janpath.

The comments&nbsp;from the BJP came in response to Kumaraswamy's statement where he said that "he was at the mercy of Congress and not the 1.6 crore people of Karnataka".

The former chief minister of the state responded to Kumaraswamy's statement by saying that, "Kumaraswamy must apologise for his statement. I want to remind him that he took oath as the Chief Minister to serve the people of Karnataka not Congress party. He cannot work as the CM of Congress party. It is clear that Kumaraswamy is at the mercy of Congress"

Kumaraswamy had said on Sunday that he was at the mercy of the Congress as he did not get the required mandate. He added that he was not under the pressure of the 6.5 crore people of the state.

He said, "Mine is not an independent government. I had requested the people to give me a mandate that prevents me from succumbing to any pressure other than you. But today I am at the mercy of the Congress. I am not under the pressure of the 6.5 crore people of the state".

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Kumaraswamy must apologise for his statement. I want to remind him that he took oath as the Chief Minister to serve the people of Karnataka not Congress party. He cannot work as the CM of Congress party. It is clear that Kumaraswamy is at the mercy of Congress: BS Yeddyurappa <a href="https://t.co/rXcEdtaAES">pic.twitter.com/rXcEdtaAES</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1001070031524978688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The comments by the BJP came in response to Kumaraswamy's statement where he said that 'he was at the mercy of Congress and not the 1.6 crore people of Karnataka'

Hitting out at the newly appointed chief minister of Karnataka on Monday the BJP called him as "chief manager (CM)" of the Congress. Party spokesperson Sambit Patra said that for the Congress, Karnataka was its ATM and it had found a chief manager in Kumaraswamy. He also added that the CM was "lying prostrate at the feet of the Gandhi family". Referring to the residential address of the former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi, he added that the government in the southern state would be run from Janpath. The comments from the BJP came in response to Kumaraswamy's statement where he said that "he was at the mercy of Congress and not the 1.6 crore people of Karnataka". The former chief minister of the state responded to Kumaraswamy's statement by saying that, "Kumaraswamy must apologise for his statement. I want to remind him that he took oath as the Chief Minister to serve the people of Karnataka not Congress party. He cannot work as the CM of Congress party. It is clear that Kumaraswamy is at the mercy of Congress" Kumaraswamy had said on Sunday that he was at the mercy of the Congress as he did not get the required mandate. He added that he was not under the pressure of the 6.5 crore people of the state. He said, "Mine is not an independent government. I had requested the people to give me a mandate that prevents me from succumbing to any pressure other than you. But today I am at the mercy of the Congress. I am not under the pressure of the 6.5 crore people of the state". Kumaraswamy must apologise for his statement. I want to remind him that he took oath as the Chief Minister to serve the people of Karnataka not Congress party. He cannot work as the CM of Congress party. It is clear that Kumaraswamy is at the mercy of Congress: BS Yeddyurappa pic.twitter.com/rXcEdtaAES — ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2018 ×

Kumaraswamy is 'Chief Manager' of Congress, Karnataka its ATM: BJP

Polling to the Shahkot, Punjab&nbsp;bypoll is underway&nbsp;in which the Congress is hoping to maintain its winning momentum while the Akali Dal is trying to retain the seat.

Sixty nine per cent voter turnout was recorded till 5 pm.

The Shahkot bypoll was necessitated following the demise of Akali MLA Ajit Singh Kohar in February this year.

The ruling Congress has fielded Hardev Singh Laddi while Akali Dal has given a ticket to Kohar's son Naib Singh Kohar. The Aam Aadmi Party has nominated Rattan Singh Kakkar Kalan for the Shahkot bypoll.

As many as 1,72,676 voters will decide the fate of 12 candidates who are in the fray.

Voters including women could be seen standing in queues at various polling booths in the morning for voting.

The Election Commission has deployed a total of 1,022 personnel of security forces, including six companies of the Border Security Force, in Shahkot, an official said.

The voting commenced at 7 am and will continue till 6 pm. Holiday had already been declared for the electors of Shahkot Assembly constituency which falls in Jalandhar district.

The counting of votes will take place on May 31.

There are total 236 polling stations in the constituency, out of which, webcasting will be held at 103 stations.

The Electronic Voting Machines and Voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) are being used at all the polling stations while 15 per cent additional EVMs and VVPAT have been kept as reserve if some malfunctioning is developed during polling, an official said.

With the Congress eyeing to maintain the winning momentum on the development agenda, opposition Akali Dal is striving to retain its pocket borough from where late Ajit Singh Kohar had remained five-time MLA.

Main opposition Aam Aadmi Party, which faced humiliating defeat during Gurdaspur Lok Sabha bypoll and civic polls, is desperately looking for the victory.

The Congress&nbsp;won 77 seats in the 117-member Punjab Vidhan Sabha during 2017 Assembly polls while the Shiromani Akali Dal BJP alliance had managed to win 18 seats. The AAP had won 20 seats while Lok Insaf Party had bagged two seats.&nbsp;

The Shahkot bypoll was necessitated following the demise of Akali MLA Ajit Singh Kohar in February this year

Polling to the Shahkot, Punjab bypoll is underway in which the Congress is hoping to maintain its winning momentum while the Akali Dal is trying to retain the seat. Sixty nine per cent voter turnout was recorded till 5 pm. The Shahkot bypoll was necessitated following the demise of Akali MLA Ajit Singh Kohar in February this year. The ruling Congress has fielded Hardev Singh Laddi while Akali Dal has given a ticket to Kohar's son Naib Singh Kohar. The Aam Aadmi Party has nominated Rattan Singh Kakkar Kalan for the Shahkot bypoll. As many as 1,72,676 voters will decide the fate of 12 candidates who are in the fray. Voters including women could be seen standing in queues at various polling booths in the morning for voting. The Election Commission has deployed a total of 1,022 personnel of security forces, including six companies of the Border Security Force, in Shahkot, an official said. The voting commenced at 7 am and will continue till 6 pm. Holiday had already been declared for the electors of Shahkot Assembly constituency which falls in Jalandhar district. The counting of votes will take place on May 31. There are total 236 polling stations in the constituency, out of which, webcasting will be held at 103 stations. The Electronic Voting Machines and Voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) are being used at all the polling stations while 15 per cent additional EVMs and VVPAT have been kept as reserve if some malfunctioning is developed during polling, an official said. With the Congress eyeing to maintain the winning momentum on the development agenda, opposition Akali Dal is striving to retain its pocket borough from where late Ajit Singh Kohar had remained five-time MLA. Main opposition Aam Aadmi Party, which faced humiliating defeat during Gurdaspur Lok Sabha bypoll and civic polls, is desperately looking for the victory. The Congress won 77 seats in the 117-member Punjab Vidhan Sabha during 2017 Assembly polls while the Shiromani Akali Dal BJP alliance had managed to win 18 seats. The AAP had won 20 seats while Lok Insaf Party had bagged two seats.

Lok Sabha, assembly bypolls: Shahkot in Punjab goes to polls

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit is all set to take India and Indonesia's relationship to a different level. Major announcements are expected to be made in the areas of infrastructure, defence collaboration and the Indo-Pacific region. 
&nbsp; 
Sources said that both Prime Minister Modi and his counterpart believe that infrastructure needs to be overhauled to the benefit of the people. The convergence of views on the Indo-Pacific region will also remain central to the agenda.&nbsp;

"There are maritime and economic issues which concern both of us,” said Pradeep Rawat, India’s ambassador to Indonesia. Both Vietnam and Indonesia are affected by the Chinese assertion in the South China sea. 
&nbsp; 
Speaking to the press he also said that issues related to economic development would also be part of the focus. Indian tourists have substantially grown in Indonesia in the past few years. Last year Indonesia witnessed 30 per cent growth of Indian tourists. 4,50,000 Indian tourists visited Indonesia last year and the third largest community to visit the island of Bali were Indians. The Indonesian government wants this number to grow to 7,50,000 per year. It has happened because tourism generates employment works as a growth driver for the economy. 
&nbsp; 
To boost tourism, a direct flight from Mumbai to Bali was also started though there is still no direct Delhi-Jakarta flight. 
&nbsp; 
India also wants to showcase the cultural connect with Indonesia. As part of the shared cultural heritage, Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation will sign an MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) with one of the kite museums in Indonesia. Apart from the official MoU, it will also be printed on a kite for symbolic purpose. 
&nbsp; 
Indonesia has people of Indian origin from the Tamil Nadu and Sindhi community. Ramayana and Mahabharata finds expression in public discourse. In the heart of Jakarta is an Arjun Vijay Monument with Arjuna riding a chariot with Lord Krishna hurled by 20 horses representing themes from Hinduism like Krittikas and earth. Both India and Indonesia are strategic partners and this visit will deepen the engagement with both the countries. 
&nbsp; 
For example India is a large importer of palm oil from Indonesia and in turn Indonesia provides a big market to Indian wheat, sugar and bovine meat. Today, Indonesia is the largest economy of South East Asia and remains the biggest trading partner from this region of India. 
&nbsp; 
The prime minister will hold public events including a community interaction with people of Indian origin and NRIs in the evening of May 30. 
&nbsp; 
Lastly, close cooperation related to terrorism will also remain on the agenda as radicalisation affects both the countries.

 
&nbsp;

Major announcements are expected to be made in the areas of infrastructure, defence collaboration and the Indo-Pacific region

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit is all set to take India and Indonesia's relationship to a different level. Major announcements are expected to be made in the areas of infrastructure, defence collaboration and the Indo-Pacific region. Sources said that both Prime Minister Modi and his counterpart believe that infrastructure needs to be overhauled to the benefit of the people. The convergence of views on the Indo-Pacific region will also remain central to the agenda. "There are maritime and economic issues which concern both of us,” said Pradeep Rawat, India’s ambassador to Indonesia. Both Vietnam and Indonesia are affected by the Chinese assertion in the South China sea. Speaking to the press he also said that issues related to economic development would also be part of the focus. Indian tourists have substantially grown in Indonesia in the past few years. Last year Indonesia witnessed 30 per cent growth of Indian tourists. 4,50,000 Indian tourists visited Indonesia last year and the third largest community to visit the island of Bali were Indians. The Indonesian government wants this number to grow to 7,50,000 per year. It has happened because tourism generates employment works as a growth driver for the economy. To boost tourism, a direct flight from Mumbai to Bali was also started though there is still no direct Delhi-Jakarta flight. India also wants to showcase the cultural connect with Indonesia. As part of the shared cultural heritage, Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation will sign an MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) with one of the kite museums in Indonesia. Apart from the official MoU, it will also be printed on a kite for symbolic purpose. Indonesia has people of Indian origin from the Tamil Nadu and Sindhi community. Ramayana and Mahabharata finds expression in public discourse. In the heart of Jakarta is an Arjun Vijay Monument with Arjuna riding a chariot with Lord Krishna hurled by 20 horses representing themes from Hinduism like Krittikas and earth. Both India and Indonesia are strategic partners and this visit will deepen the engagement with both the countries. For example India is a large importer of palm oil from Indonesia and in turn Indonesia provides a big market to Indian wheat, sugar and bovine meat. Today, Indonesia is the largest economy of South East Asia and remains the biggest trading partner from this region of India. The prime minister will hold public events including a community interaction with people of Indian origin and NRIs in the evening of May 30. Lastly, close cooperation related to terrorism will also remain on the agenda as radicalisation affects both the countries.

PM Modi’s visit to Indonesia to deepen strategic, defence and business ties

Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam today asserted that the government will take resolute steps for the permanent closure of Vedanta group's copper plant here.&nbsp

"Today, the main demand of the people is that the copper plant should be permanently closed. In keeping with their demand, it is shut now. I would like to make it clear that Sterlite plant will be permanently shut," Panneerselvam said.&nbsp

The "Amma's government," will do all things necessary to ensure the plant's closure, he told reporters after visiting those injured in the violence and police firing on May 22, at a state-run hospital here.&nbsp

"The government will do its duty for permanently closing down the plant," he said.&nbsp

The Deputy Chief Minister said even if there were legal challenges in the closure of the plant, it will be faced and the government will take resolute steps to permanently close down the Vedanta group's copper unit here.&nbsp

Describing the deaths of 13 people in the police firing as an "incident of grief which melted the hearts of everyone," Panneerselvam expressed his condolences to the kin of the dead and wished the injured a speedy recovery.&nbsp

Recalling the steps taken by the government for closing down the plant, he said way back in 2013, the copper plant was shut by late Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa.&nbsp

However, Sterlite approached the National Green Tribunal and got orders for resuming operations and the government petition opposing this was still pending in the Supreme Court.&nbsp

Also, the State pollution control board did not renew its consent due to which the plant could not operate, he said.&nbsp

Panneerselvam said he met 47 injured persons and consoled them, and received representations from them which will be fulfilled. He said compensation has already been provided to all the injured he met.&nbsp

The visit of the Deputy Chief Minister, who is also the top leader of the ruling AIADMK, comes at a time when the city has just got back on its feet.&nbsp

Large-scale violence on May 22 against the Sterlite copper plant here and police firing led to the death of 12 persons and the next day saw one more youth succumbing to injuries sustained in police firing.&nbsp

Sterlite Copper is a unit of Vedanta Ltd which operates a 400,000-tonne per annum capacity plant here.&nbsp

With the return of normalcy, prohibitory orders were relaxed and the internet services have also been restored fully.&nbsp

"Peace has returned to Tuticorin and it will continue and the district administration is working towards that," the deputy chief minister said.&nbsp

Panneerselvam also visited the district collectorate which had borne the burnt of the violence on May 22 and held discussions with district officials.&nbsp

Meanwhile, an AIADMK information technology wing functionary C Hari Prabhakaran, who made an abusive tweet against journalists, was expelled from the party.&nbsp

"Reporters are not allowed to shoot inside the hospital during the DCM visit - street dogs who shouts for biscuits will be tied on the gate rather allowing them inside," he had said on his Twitter handle.&nbsp

Prabhakaran subsequently deleted the tweet.&nbsp

The AIADMK release said Hari Prabhakaran, Kanchipuram East District IT Wing Joint Secretary was removed from all his party posts, including primary membership, for acting against the party principles and for bringing disrepute.&nbsp

The 'Amma's government,' will do all things necessary to ensure the plant's closure, he told reporters after visiting those injured in the violence and police firing on May 22, at a state-run hospital here

Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam today asserted that the government will take resolute steps for the permanent closure of Vedanta group's copper plant here. "Today, the main demand of the people is that the copper plant should be permanently closed. In keeping with their demand, it is shut now. I would like to make it clear that Sterlite plant will be permanently shut," Panneerselvam said. The "Amma's government," will do all things necessary to ensure the plant's closure, he told reporters after visiting those injured in the violence and police firing on May 22, at a state-run hospital here. "The government will do its duty for permanently closing down the plant," he said. The Deputy Chief Minister said even if there were legal challenges in the closure of the plant, it will be faced and the government will take resolute steps to permanently close down the Vedanta group's copper unit here. Describing the deaths of 13 people in the police firing as an "incident of grief which melted the hearts of everyone," Panneerselvam expressed his condolences to the kin of the dead and wished the injured a speedy recovery. Recalling the steps taken by the government for closing down the plant, he said way back in 2013, the copper plant was shut by late Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa. However, Sterlite approached the National Green Tribunal and got orders for resuming operations and the government petition opposing this was still pending in the Supreme Court. Also, the State pollution control board did not renew its consent due to which the plant could not operate, he said. Panneerselvam said he met 47 injured persons and consoled them, and received representations from them which will be fulfilled. He said compensation has already been provided to all the injured he met. The visit of the Deputy Chief Minister, who is also the top leader of the ruling AIADMK, comes at a time when the city has just got back on its feet. Large-scale violence on May 22 against the Sterlite copper plant here and police firing led to the death of 12 persons and the next day saw one more youth succumbing to injuries sustained in police firing. Sterlite Copper is a unit of Vedanta Ltd which operates a 400,000-tonne per annum capacity plant here. With the return of normalcy, prohibitory orders were relaxed and the internet services have also been restored fully. "Peace has returned to Tuticorin and it will continue and the district administration is working towards that," the deputy chief minister said. Panneerselvam also visited the district collectorate which had borne the burnt of the violence on May 22 and held discussions with district officials. Meanwhile, an AIADMK information technology wing functionary C Hari Prabhakaran, who made an abusive tweet against journalists, was expelled from the party. "Reporters are not allowed to shoot inside the hospital during the DCM visit - street dogs who shouts for biscuits will be tied on the gate rather allowing them inside," he had said on his Twitter handle. Prabhakaran subsequently deleted the tweet. The AIADMK release said Hari Prabhakaran, Kanchipuram East District IT Wing Joint Secretary was removed from all his party posts, including primary membership, for acting against the party principles and for bringing disrepute.

Sterlite copper plant will be shut permanently: Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister

Hitting out at the newly appointed chief minister of Karnataka on Monday the BJP called him as "chief manager (CM)" of the Congress.

Party spokesperson Sambit Patra said that for the Congress, Karnataka was its ATM and it had found a chief manager in Kumaraswamy.

He also added that he was "lying prostrate at the feet of the Gandhi family".

Referring to the residential address of the former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi, he added that the government in the southern state would be run from Janpath.

The comments by the BJP came in response to Kumaraswamy's statement where he said that "he was at the mercy of Congress and not the 1.6 crore people of Karnataka".

Kumaraswamy had said on Sunday that he was at the mercy of the Congress as he did not get the required mandate. He said he was not under the pressure of the 6.5 crore people of the state.

He said, "Mine is not an independent government. I had requested the people to give me a mandate that prevents me from succumbing to any pressure other than you. But today I am at the mercy of the Congress. I am not under the pressure of the 6.5 crore people of the state," Mr Kumaraswamy said

Hitting out at the newly appointed chief minister of Karnataka on Monday the BJP called him as "chief manager (CM)" of the Congress. Party spokesperson Sambit Patra said that for the Congress, Karnataka was its ATM and it had found a chief manager in Kumaraswamy. He also added that he was "lying prostrate at the feet of the Gandhi family". Referring to the residential address of the former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi, he added that the government in the southern state would be run from Janpath. The comments by the BJP came in response to Kumaraswamy's statement where he said that "he was at the mercy of Congress and not the 1.6 crore people of Karnataka". Kumaraswamy had said on Sunday that he was at the mercy of the Congress as he did not get the required mandate. He said he was not under the pressure of the 6.5 crore people of the state. He said, "Mine is not an independent government. I had requested the people to give me a mandate that prevents me from succumbing to any pressure other than you. But today I am at the mercy of the Congress. I am not under the pressure of the 6.5 crore people of the state," Mr Kumaraswamy said

Kumaraswamy is 'Chief Manager' of Congress, while Karnataka its ATM: BJP

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj addressed an annual press conference on Monday in which she highlighted the achievements made by the Modi government over the past 4 years.&nbsp;

She also touched upon India's foreign policy with the neighbouring nations and countries of rest of the world.

"We started a campaign to cover all 192 countries in the world. India is engaging with every single country in the world. Our aim is “Pratham Baar” or “First Time” to take India’s friendly relations with all countries of the world," said external affairs minister on completion of 4 years of NDA government.

"90,000 people from Indian community have been rescued from various places. In his visits to many countries, PM has saved many people from severe punishments. Today, Indians living overseas are living peacefully," said Sushma Swaraj.

On talks with Pakistan and&nbsp;Gilgit Baltistan Order 2018

We never said we are not ready for talks, But there's a caveat — terror and talks cannot go together. This has always been our position. When people are dying on the border, dialogue is not appropriate.

The answer we got in the response to what happened with Gilgit Baltistan Order 2018, was laughable. They tried to teach us history. Pakistan always distorts history & doesn't believe in the law. Only thing I felt while reading their answer was, 'look who's talking'.

US sanctions against Iran

Asked about India's position on the new US sanctions against Iran, Swaraj said, "We only recognise UN sanctions, not country-specific sanctions, We are not coerced into our foreign policy decisions,".

Sushma Swaraj on the H1-B visa concerns

We are trying our best by talking to the White House, talking to the administration and to the Senators and Congressmen.Ultimately its America's decision.they are a sovereign country. But we are trying our best.

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations.

Foreign visits by PM and other ministers

I was surprised to hear that there were so many countries that our leaders didn't go to. When we formed our govt, we thought that we will cover all the 192 countries present at the UN, for ministerial-level talks. And, we have covered 186 countries already.

On the use of social media

"Used social media as a tool to help our citizens across the world. We have used Twitter in a progressive manner. All Indians are connected to us. We are just a click away," she added.

"The only export control regime that India is yet to become a member of is the NSG (Nuclear Suppliers Group)," said Sushma Swaraj.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj addressed an annual press conference on Monday in which she highlighted the achievements made by the Modi government over the past 4 years. She also touched upon India's foreign policy with the neighbouring nations and countries of rest of the world. "We started a campaign to cover all 192 countries in the world. India is engaging with every single country in the world. Our aim is “Pratham Baar” or “First Time” to take India’s friendly relations with all countries of the world," said external affairs minister on completion of 4 years of NDA government. "90,000 people from Indian community have been rescued from various places. In his visits to many countries, PM has saved many people from severe punishments. Today, Indians living overseas are living peacefully," said Sushma Swaraj. On talks with Pakistan and Gilgit Baltistan Order 2018 We never said we are not ready for talks, But there's a caveat — terror and talks cannot go together. This has always been our position. When people are dying on the border, dialogue is not appropriate. The answer we got in the response to what happened with Gilgit Baltistan Order 2018, was laughable. They tried to teach us history. Pakistan always distorts history & doesn't believe in the law. Only thing I felt while reading their answer was, 'look who's talking'. US sanctions against Iran Asked about India's position on the new US sanctions against Iran, Swaraj said, "We only recognise UN sanctions, not country-specific sanctions, We are not coerced into our foreign policy decisions,". Sushma Swaraj on the H1-B visa concerns We are trying our best by talking to the White House, talking to the administration and to the Senators and Congressmen.Ultimately its America's decision.they are a sovereign country. But we are trying our best. The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations. Foreign visits by PM and other ministers I was surprised to hear that there were so many countries that our leaders didn't go to. When we formed our govt, we thought that we will cover all the 192 countries present at the UN, for ministerial-level talks. And, we have covered 186 countries already. On the use of social media "Used social media as a tool to help our citizens across the world. We have used Twitter in a progressive manner. All Indians are connected to us. We are just a click away," she added.

When people are dying on the border, dialogue is not appropriate: Sushma Swaraj on Pakistan

Indian devotees alleged on Monday that China were not allowing them to take a holy dip in the Kailash Mansarovar Lake.

External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj dismissed the allegations stating that there was a designated place for taking bath and that one could not take a dip "just anywhere in the river".

"I got a tweet from someone who was visiting Mansarovar that they were not being allowed to take holy dip in the Mansarovar jheel (lake). This wasn't the situation. There is always a designated place where you can take a bath, you cannot take dip just anywhere in the river," the external affairs minister said during a press conference.

The allegations come around&nbsp;20 days after Sushma Swaraj announced that the Nathu La pass has been opened for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra had been stopped by China after the 72-day-long standoff in Doklam last year.

"I had told Chinese foreign ministry that relations between governments cannot prosper until people-to-people relations are improved when Nathu La pass was closed during last Yatra it came as a blow to people. I am happy to announce that it has now been opened for Yatra," Sushma Swaraj had said earlier this month.

"We will send 18 batches, of 60 pilgrims each, through Lipulekh Pass and 10 batches, of 50 pilgrims each, through Nathu La Pass. Around 1580 pilgrims will undertake the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra this year," she said.

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra tour is organised by the MEA each year between June and September in cooperation with the Chinese government. The journey is undertaken through two different routes - Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand) and Nathu La Pass (Sikkim).

The Nathu La route was opened to Indian pilgrims in 2015.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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Devotees at Kailash Mansarovar have alleged that Chinese authorities are not allowing them to take holy dip in the Mansarovar Lake <a href="https://t.co/pOF9jFRlWA">pic.twitter.com/pOF9jFRlWA</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1001018537069035520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Indian devotees alleged that China were not allowing them to take a holy dip in the Kailash Mansarovar Lake

Indian devotees alleged on Monday that China were not allowing them to take a holy dip in the Kailash Mansarovar Lake. External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj dismissed the allegations stating that there was a designated place for taking bath and that one could not take a dip "just anywhere in the river". "I got a tweet from someone who was visiting Mansarovar that they were not being allowed to take holy dip in the Mansarovar jheel (lake). This wasn't the situation. There is always a designated place where you can take a bath, you cannot take dip just anywhere in the river," the external affairs minister said during a press conference. The allegations come around 20 days after Sushma Swaraj announced that the Nathu La pass has been opened for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra had been stopped by China after the 72-day-long standoff in Doklam last year. "I had told Chinese foreign ministry that relations between governments cannot prosper until people-to-people relations are improved when Nathu La pass was closed during last Yatra it came as a blow to people. I am happy to announce that it has now been opened for Yatra," Sushma Swaraj had said earlier this month. "We will send 18 batches, of 60 pilgrims each, through Lipulekh Pass and 10 batches, of 50 pilgrims each, through Nathu La Pass. Around 1580 pilgrims will undertake the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra this year," she said. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra tour is organised by the MEA each year between June and September in cooperation with the Chinese government. The journey is undertaken through two different routes - Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand) and Nathu La Pass (Sikkim). The Nathu La route was opened to Indian pilgrims in 2015. Devotees at Kailash Mansarovar have alleged that Chinese authorities are not allowing them to take holy dip in the Mansarovar Lake pic.twitter.com/pOF9jFRlWA — ANI (@ANI) May 28, 2018 ×

Sushma Swaraj dismisses allegations that China not allowing dip in Kailash Mansarovar Lake

Pakistan on Monday summoned India's Deputy High Commissioner J P Singh and issued a demarche over the Indian statement that the entire state of Jammu and Kashmir, which also includes the so-called 'Gilgit-Baltistan' areas, is an integral part of India by virtue of its accession in 1947.

Pakistan Cabinet on May 21 approved Gilgit-Baltistan Order 2018 which was also endorsed by the assembly for the region. The order is being seen as Pakistan's efforts towards incorporating the disputed region as its fifth province.

India on Sunday summoned Pakistan's Deputy High Commissioner Syed Haider Shah in New Delhi and lodged a strong protest over Islamabad's latest move, saying any action to alter the status of any part of the territory under its "forcible and illegal occupation" has no legal basis.

The Ministry of External Affairs said it conveyed to Shah that the entire state of Jammu and Kashmir, which also includes the so-called 'Gilgit-Baltistan' areas, is an integral part of India by virtue of its accession in 1947.

Commenting on India's remarks, Pakistan Foreign Office spokesman Dr Mohammad Faisal today said that Singh was summoned on the issue.&nbsp

Faisal, who is also the Director General (South Asia & South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) issued the demarche to Singh.

Singh was summoned "to register Pakistan's categorical rejection of the Indian statement on the Gilgit Baltistan Order 2018 and its baseless, fallacious claim" over Kashmir, according to a statement issued by Faisal's office.&nbsp

It said a written demarche to this effect was also handed over to Singh.

The Foreign Office spokesman in a statement on Sunday claimed that the "Jammu and Kashmir was a disputed territory".

"Pakistan categorically rejects India's protest against the Gilgit-Baltistan Order 2018 and its claim over Jammu & Kashmir as an 'integral part' of India. Everything from history to law to morality to the situation on the ground belies India's spurious claim," the spokesman said.

"These resolutions, pledging the right to self-determination to the people of Kashmir, were accepted by India, Pakistan and the international community," he said, referring to UN Security Council resolutions.

The spokesman said that Pakistan as a responsible member of the international community, had always taken steps consistent with UN Security Council resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir dispute.

"The latest measure is no exception, as its aim is to further empower the people of Gilgit and Baltistan. We will continue to abide by the UN Security Council resolutions until this dispute is finally resolved through peaceful means,"&nbsphe said.

Pakistan has bifurcated occupied Kashmir into two administrative parts - Gilgit-Baltistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Gilgit-Baltistan was treated as a separate geographical entity by Pakistan till now.&nbsp

China's controversial $ 50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passes through the disputed region.

It is believed that China's concerns about the unsettled status of Gilgit-Baltistan prompted Pakistan to change its status.

Pakistan Cabinet on May 21 approved Gilgit-Baltistan Order 2018 which was also endorsed by the assembly for the region. The order is being seen as Pakistan's efforts towards incorporating the disputed region as its fifth province

Pakistan on Monday summoned India's Deputy High Commissioner J P Singh and issued a demarche over the Indian statement that the entire state of Jammu and Kashmir, which also includes the so-called 'Gilgit-Baltistan' areas, is an integral part of India by virtue of its accession in 1947. Pakistan Cabinet on May 21 approved Gilgit-Baltistan Order 2018 which was also endorsed by the assembly for the region. The order is being seen as Pakistan's efforts towards incorporating the disputed region as its fifth province. India on Sunday summoned Pakistan's Deputy High Commissioner Syed Haider Shah in New Delhi and lodged a strong protest over Islamabad's latest move, saying any action to alter the status of any part of the territory under its "forcible and illegal occupation" has no legal basis. The Ministry of External Affairs said it conveyed to Shah that the entire state of Jammu and Kashmir, which also includes the so-called 'Gilgit-Baltistan' areas, is an integral part of India by virtue of its accession in 1947. Commenting on India's remarks, Pakistan Foreign Office spokesman Dr Mohammad Faisal today said that Singh was summoned on the issue. Faisal, who is also the Director General (South Asia & South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) issued the demarche to Singh. Singh was summoned "to register Pakistan's categorical rejection of the Indian statement on the Gilgit Baltistan Order 2018 and its baseless, fallacious claim" over Kashmir, according to a statement issued by Faisal's office. It said a written demarche to this effect was also handed over to Singh. The Foreign Office spokesman in a statement on Sunday claimed that the "Jammu and Kashmir was a disputed territory". "Pakistan categorically rejects India's protest against the Gilgit-Baltistan Order 2018 and its claim over Jammu & Kashmir as an 'integral part' of India. Everything from history to law to morality to the situation on the ground belies India's spurious claim," the spokesman said. "These resolutions, pledging the right to self-determination to the people of Kashmir, were accepted by India, Pakistan and the international community," he said, referring to UN Security Council resolutions. The spokesman said that Pakistan as a responsible member of the international community, had always taken steps consistent with UN Security Council resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir dispute. "The latest measure is no exception, as its aim is to further empower the people of Gilgit and Baltistan. We will continue to abide by the UN Security Council resolutions until this dispute is finally resolved through peaceful means,"&nbsphe said. Pakistan has bifurcated occupied Kashmir into two administrative parts - Gilgit-Baltistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Gilgit-Baltistan was treated as a separate geographical entity by Pakistan till now. China's controversial $ 50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passes through the disputed region. It is believed that China's concerns about the unsettled status of Gilgit-Baltistan prompted Pakistan to change its status.

Pakistan summons India's Deputy High Commissioner over 'Gilgit-Baltistan' issue

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