<p>Known for playing author-backed roles on screen, critically acclaimed actress Richa Chadha felt she was 'misused' in Aishwarya Rai starrer 'Sarbjit'.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Directed by Omung Kumar, 'Sarbjit' centred around Aishwarya Rai as Sarbjit sister Dalbir Kaur and her struggle to get her brother Sarbjit Singh (Randeep Hooda) freed from jail in Pakistan. Richa played Sarbjit's wife in the film.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
"I would say that only in `Sarbjit`, I felt misused. I regretted choosing the film," the actress told a news agency in an interview.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Chadha mentioned that her priority was to get roles which would make her act and not just give her visibility. " Working in `Goliyon Ki Rasleela Ram-Leela` was a great experience. My character was pretty substantial. As long as my choice of the film gives me a chance to do that, I will continue choosing quality."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Born and brought up in Delhi, Richa started her career in Bollywood with the film "Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!" in 2008 after doing theatre extensively. However, she went through a tough time in the film industry before "Gangs of Wasseypur" happened in 2012.</p>

<p>She has since played several substantial roles in films as different as "Fukrey" and "Masaan".</p>

<p>Doesn`t she feel bad that mainstream filmmakers are not collaborating with her enough for a protagonist`s role?</p>

<p>"Look, if the producer is looking for a business of Rs 100 crore from a film, they need a star like Deepika Padukone to pull it off and it is purely a professional reason. I am okay with all that.</p>

<p>"I am not here to make money anyway. I want to leave a mark on every project that I take up, every film that I do," Richa said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, she admits that playing the mother of an older man, at the age of 24 in "Gangs Of Wasseypur", was certainly a risk.</p>

<p>"That was a huge risk that I took at that point in time for which nobody appreciated me. There are people who thought that I am much older than what my actual age was. But people also understood my calibre as an actor," she said.</p>

<p>Richa was also offered to play the mother of Hrithik Roshan in the film "Agneepath".</p>

<p>"Yes, that is true, and I think that was a really stupid idea of the person who offered me that role. I think he was smoking something wrong," quipped the actress, known for speaking her mind.</p>

<p>Asked to choose some of her best performance so far, Richa said: "Of course, Bholi Punjaban (in `Fukrey`) is one of the roles that has given me a lot of love from the audience.</p>

<p>"It was a very empowering role of a woman who runs her business like a gangster with so much confidence. It was a very well made film and I think that is how a commercial film should be, with good content, and it will earn money at the box office as well."</p>

<p>Richa said "Masaan" is one of the films which is also close to her heart.</p>

<p>"I think I am so lucky that I started in 2012 and in 2015, my film was receiving two awards at the Cannes Film Festival. I will always be thankful to Neeraj Ghaywan for giving me the role," she added.</p>

<p>The irony is "Masaan" was one of those films which initially nobody -- whether a producer, big studio or film stars -- was interested to be a part of.</p>

<p>Since she did not have a film background, what gave her the confidence to find the potential in the material back then?</p>

<p>"Oh that`s easy... I have a brain. People mostly think about a character where they will get to look good, two song-dance sequences for visibility... but that is not how it works.</p>

<p>"I think it is the responsibility of an actor to add value and meaning to the character that is written in the script. We bring life to the characters through our performance.</p>

<p>"So I could be playing anything -- whether a cameo or the main lead -- but as an actor I will create an impact to the narration. We all get a script to perform, what makes the difference is how we utilise the opportunity to excel," said the actress, who is eager to work with some of the young female filmmakers.</p>

<p>"Whether it is Alankrita Shrivastava, Zoya Akhtar or Reema Kagti, I love their work. They are really good filmmakers and storytellers. I was almost doing a film with Reema, but it got cancelled last minute. I am looking forward to working with her in future," she said.</p>

<p>"I would love to work with Vishal Bhardwaj. I have loved all his films," said Richa, whose Sudhir Mishra-directed "Daasdev" released last month.</p>


The actress said she regretted choosing that film.

Known for playing author-backed roles on screen, critically acclaimed actress Richa Chadha felt she was 'misused' in Aishwarya Rai starrer 'Sarbjit'. Directed by Omung Kumar, 'Sarbjit' centred around Aishwarya Rai as Sarbjit sister Dalbir Kaur and her struggle to get her brother Sarbjit Singh (Randeep Hooda) freed from jail in Pakistan. Richa played Sarbjit's wife in the film. "I would say that only in `Sarbjit`, I felt misused. I regretted choosing the film," the actress told a news agency in an interview. Chadha mentioned that her priority was to get roles which would make her act and not just give her visibility. " Working in `Goliyon Ki Rasleela Ram-Leela` was a great experience. My character was pretty substantial. As long as my choice of the film gives me a chance to do that, I will continue choosing quality." Born and brought up in Delhi, Richa started her career in Bollywood with the film "Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!" in 2008 after doing theatre extensively. However, she went through a tough time in the film industry before "Gangs of Wasseypur" happened in 2012. She has since played several substantial roles in films as different as "Fukrey" and "Masaan". Doesn`t she feel bad that mainstream filmmakers are not collaborating with her enough for a protagonist`s role? "Look, if the producer is looking for a business of Rs 100 crore from a film, they need a star like Deepika Padukone to pull it off and it is purely a professional reason. I am okay with all that. "I am not here to make money anyway. I want to leave a mark on every project that I take up, every film that I do," Richa said. However, she admits that playing the mother of an older man, at the age of 24 in "Gangs Of Wasseypur", was certainly a risk. "That was a huge risk that I took at that point in time for which nobody appreciated me. There are people who thought that I am much older than what my actual age was. But people also understood my calibre as an actor," she said. Richa was also offered to play the mother of Hrithik Roshan in the film "Agneepath". "Yes, that is true, and I think that was a really stupid idea of the person who offered me that role. I think he was smoking something wrong," quipped the actress, known for speaking her mind. Asked to choose some of her best performance so far, Richa said: "Of course, Bholi Punjaban (in `Fukrey`) is one of the roles that has given me a lot of love from the audience. "It was a very empowering role of a woman who runs her business like a gangster with so much confidence. It was a very well made film and I think that is how a commercial film should be, with good content, and it will earn money at the box office as well." Richa said "Masaan" is one of the films which is also close to her heart. "I think I am so lucky that I started in 2012 and in 2015, my film was receiving two awards at the Cannes Film Festival. I will always be thankful to Neeraj Ghaywan for giving me the role," she added. The irony is "Masaan" was one of those films which initially nobody -- whether a producer, big studio or film stars -- was interested to be a part of. Since she did not have a film background, what gave her the confidence to find the potential in the material back then? "Oh that`s easy... I have a brain. People mostly think about a character where they will get to look good, two song-dance sequences for visibility... but that is not how it works. "I think it is the responsibility of an actor to add value and meaning to the character that is written in the script. We bring life to the characters through our performance. "So I could be playing anything -- whether a cameo or the main lead -- but as an actor I will create an impact to the narration. We all get a script to perform, what makes the difference is how we utilise the opportunity to excel," said the actress, who is eager to work with some of the young female filmmakers. "Whether it is Alankrita Shrivastava, Zoya Akhtar or Reema Kagti, I love their work. They are really good filmmakers and storytellers. I was almost doing a film with Reema, but it got cancelled last minute. I am looking forward to working with her in future," she said. "I would love to work with Vishal Bhardwaj. I have loved all his films," said Richa, whose Sudhir Mishra-directed "Daasdev" released last month.

Richa Chadha feels she was 'misused' in Aishwarya Rai starrer 'Sarbjit'

The Karnataka elections will see Siddaramaiah, Yedyyurappa and JD(S) leader Kumaraswamy in a close race to take the top spot.

In Pics: Who is likely to become chief minister of Karnataka?

<p>Following the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sunanda-pushkar-death-delhi-police-files-fir-against-congress-mp-shashi-tharoor-136735">Delhi Police's FIR filed against Congress leader Shashi Tharoor</a> in the death of his wife, the Congress MP has questioned "the&nbsp;methods and motivations of the Police".</p>

<p>He took to Twitter to hit back at the Delhi police saying that the "&nbsp;If this is conclusion arrived at after 4+ yrs of investigation , it does not speak well of the methods or motivations of the Delhi Police".</p>

<p>He also said that the Law officer could not find any evidence against him in October last year.</p>

<p>He tweeted, "&nbsp;I have taken note of the filing of this preposterous charge sheet and intend to contest it vigorously. No one who knew Sunanda believes she would ever have committed suicide, let alone abetment on my part. If this is conclusion arrived at after 4+ yrs of investigation, it does not speak well of the methods or motivations of the Delhi Police. In oct 17, the Law Officer made a statement in the Delhi high court that they have not found anything against anyone and now in 6 months they say that I have abetted a suicide. unbelievable!"</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Tharoor also said that he would keep away from Twitter " for a while" as he was encountering too much "epicaricacy".</p>

<p>The Delhi Police today filed a First Information Report(FIR) in&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/shashi-tharoors-wife-sunanda-pushkar-was-poisoned-report-35475">the death of Sunanda Pushkar</a>&nbsp;naming the Congress leader as one of the accused.</p>

<p>Shashi Tharoor was charged under sections 498 A (husband or his relative subjecting a woman to cruelty) and 306 (abetment of suicide) of the Indian Penal Code.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Staying off <a href="https://twitter.com/Twitter?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Twitter</a> for a while -- one encounters too much epicaricacy! <a href="https://t.co/znaj8vUl0R">pic.twitter.com/znaj8vUl0R</a></p>
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/996013928361611265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">1/2 I have taken note of the filing of this preposterous charge sheet &intend to contest it vigorously. No one who knew Sunanda believes she would ever have committed suicide, let alone abetment on my part. If this is conclusion arrived at after 4+ yrs of investigation, (contd.)</p>
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/995977116884729856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">2/2) it does not speak well of the methods or motivations of the Delhi Police. In oct 17, the Law Officer made a statement in the DelhiHighCourt that they have not found anything against anyone & now in 6 months they say that I have abetted a suicide. unbelievable!</p>
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/995977356933136384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Tharoor took to Twitter to hit back at the Delhi police saying that the 'If this is conclusion arrived at after 4+ yrs of the investigation , it does not speak well of the methods or motivations of the Delhi Police'

Following the Delhi Police's FIR filed against Congress leader Shashi Tharoor in the death of his wife, the Congress MP has questioned "the methods and motivations of the Police". He took to Twitter to hit back at the Delhi police saying that the " If this is conclusion arrived at after 4+ yrs of investigation , it does not speak well of the methods or motivations of the Delhi Police". He also said that the Law officer could not find any evidence against him in October last year. He tweeted, " I have taken note of the filing of this preposterous charge sheet and intend to contest it vigorously. No one who knew Sunanda believes she would ever have committed suicide, let alone abetment on my part. If this is conclusion arrived at after 4+ yrs of investigation, it does not speak well of the methods or motivations of the Delhi Police. In oct 17, the Law Officer made a statement in the Delhi high court that they have not found anything against anyone and now in 6 months they say that I have abetted a suicide. unbelievable!" Meanwhile, Tharoor also said that he would keep away from Twitter " for a while" as he was encountering too much "epicaricacy". The Delhi Police today filed a First Information Report(FIR) in the death of Sunanda Pushkar naming the Congress leader as one of the accused. Shashi Tharoor was charged under sections 498 A (husband or his relative subjecting a woman to cruelty) and 306 (abetment of suicide) of the Indian Penal Code. Staying off @Twitter for a while -- one encounters too much epicaricacy! pic.twitter.com/znaj8vUl0R — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) May 14, 2018 × 1/2 I have taken note of the filing of this preposterous charge sheet &intend to contest it vigorously. No one who knew Sunanda believes she would ever have committed suicide, let alone abetment on my part. If this is conclusion arrived at after 4+ yrs of investigation, (contd.) — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) May 14, 2018 × 2/2) it does not speak well of the methods or motivations of the Delhi Police. In oct 17, the Law Officer made a statement in the DelhiHighCourt that they have not found anything against anyone & now in 6 months they say that I have abetted a suicide. unbelievable! — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) May 14, 2018 ×

Sunanda Pushkar death: Shashi Tharoor questions 'methods, motivations' of Delhi Police after the FIR against him

Sunanda Pushkar death: Shashi Tharoor questions 'methods' of Delhi Police after FIR

<p>The tax department will seek share purchase agreement from Flipkart on the mega <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-&-economy/walmart-buying-77-stake-in-flipkart-for-16-billion-135737">USD 16 billion </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-&-economy/walmart-buying-77-stake-in-flipkart-for-16-billion-135737">buyout</a> by US retail giant Walmart to assess the tax liability and also to find out whether the GAAR provisions can be invoked, an official said.</p>

<p>The department currently is going through the Section 9(1) of the Income Tax law, which deals with indirect transfer provisions, to see if the benefits under the bilateral tax treaties with countries like Singapore and Mauritius, could be available for foreign investors selling stakes to Walmart.</p>

<p>Singapore-registered Flipkart Pvt Ltd holds majority stake in Flipkart India. As per the definitive agreement between the companies last week, Walmart will acquire about 77 per cent stake in the Singapore entity for USD 16 billion.</p>

<p>The agreement will effectively result in transfer of ultimate ownership in Flipkart India to Walmart.</p>

<p>To ascertain the exact tax liability, the revenue department will write to Flipkart seeking the share purchase agreement that the company had entered into with Walmart.</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/flipkarts-1st-employee-was-hired-at-rs-8000-a-month-today-hes-a-multi-millionaire-135789">Flipkart's 1st employee was hired at Rs 8,000 a month. Today, he's a multi-millionaire</a></p>

<p>"The department will seek the share purchase agreement once the formalities for the sale are completed. The agreement will help in tracking the flow of funds and the ultimate beneficiary," the official told PTI.</p>

<p>As regards applicability of General Anti Avoidance Rules (GAAR), the official said it would apply in cases where the investments were made to avoid taxes.</p>

<p>In the Walmart-Flipkart deal, the revenue department will go through the share purchase agreement to ascertain the purpose of investment and the emanating gains.</p>

<p>On whether the benefits of bilateral tax treaties will be available in this deal, the official said the department will go through the details of different double taxation avoidance agreements (DTAAs) to ascertain whether taxes could be levied at concessional rate and investment made prior to a particular date can be grandfathered.</p>

<p>"There is likely to be capital gains withholding tax implications when the shares of Flipkart Singapore are sold by Softbank or other foreign investors. The tax rate will depend upon the facts of the case," V Lakshmikumaran,</p>

<p>Managing Partner of law firm Lakshmikumaran & Sridharan said.</p>

<p>The tax department had last week written to Bentonville-Arkansas based Walmart saying that the US company can seek guidance about the tax liability under Section 195 (2) of the I-T Act.</p>

<p>Under Section 195 of the Act, anyone making payment to non-residents is required to deduct tax (commonly known as withholding tax).</p>

<p>As per Section 9 (1) of I-T Act dealing with indirect transfer provisions, the value of shares of a foreign company is deemed to be substantially derived from India, if the value of the Indian assets is greater than 50 per cent of its worldwide assets -- a criteria that is apparently met in Flipkart's case.</p>

<p>"In the Walmart-Flipkart deal, Section 9 (1) will apply as the assets of Flipkart Singapore are substantially based in India and hence the sellers would be liable to pay capital gains tax," Titus & Co Managing Partner Diljeet Titus opined.</p>

<p>As regards the capital gains tax made by Indian founders Sachin Bansal and Binny Bansal, the official said they would have to pay 20 per cent tax with indexation benefit, which is applicable on sale of unlisted shares by Indian residents.&nbsp;</p>


To ascertain tax liability, the revenue department will write to Flipkart seeking the share purchase agreement the company has entered into with Walmart

The tax department will seek share purchase agreement from Flipkart on the mega USD 16 billion buyout by US retail giant Walmart to assess the tax liability and also to find out whether the GAAR provisions can be invoked, an official said. The department currently is going through the Section 9(1) of the Income Tax law, which deals with indirect transfer provisions, to see if the benefits under the bilateral tax treaties with countries like Singapore and Mauritius, could be available for foreign investors selling stakes to Walmart. Singapore-registered Flipkart Pvt Ltd holds majority stake in Flipkart India. As per the definitive agreement between the companies last week, Walmart will acquire about 77 per cent stake in the Singapore entity for USD 16 billion. The agreement will effectively result in transfer of ultimate ownership in Flipkart India to Walmart. To ascertain the exact tax liability, the revenue department will write to Flipkart seeking the share purchase agreement that the company had entered into with Walmart. Also read: Flipkart's 1st employee was hired at Rs 8,000 a month. Today, he's a multi-millionaire "The department will seek the share purchase agreement once the formalities for the sale are completed. The agreement will help in tracking the flow of funds and the ultimate beneficiary," the official told PTI. As regards applicability of General Anti Avoidance Rules (GAAR), the official said it would apply in cases where the investments were made to avoid taxes. In the Walmart-Flipkart deal, the revenue department will go through the share purchase agreement to ascertain the purpose of investment and the emanating gains. On whether the benefits of bilateral tax treaties will be available in this deal, the official said the department will go through the details of different double taxation avoidance agreements (DTAAs) to ascertain whether taxes could be levied at concessional rate and investment made prior to a particular date can be grandfathered. "There is likely to be capital gains withholding tax implications when the shares of Flipkart Singapore are sold by Softbank or other foreign investors. The tax rate will depend upon the facts of the case," V Lakshmikumaran, Managing Partner of law firm Lakshmikumaran & Sridharan said. The tax department had last week written to Bentonville-Arkansas based Walmart saying that the US company can seek guidance about the tax liability under Section 195 (2) of the I-T Act. Under Section 195 of the Act, anyone making payment to non-residents is required to deduct tax (commonly known as withholding tax). As per Section 9 (1) of I-T Act dealing with indirect transfer provisions, the value of shares of a foreign company is deemed to be substantially derived from India, if the value of the Indian assets is greater than 50 per cent of its worldwide assets -- a criteria that is apparently met in Flipkart's case. "In the Walmart-Flipkart deal, Section 9 (1) will apply as the assets of Flipkart Singapore are substantially based in India and hence the sellers would be liable to pay capital gains tax," Titus & Co Managing Partner Diljeet Titus opined. As regards the capital gains tax made by Indian founders Sachin Bansal and Binny Bansal, the official said they would have to pay 20 per cent tax with indexation benefit, which is applicable on sale of unlisted shares by Indian residents.

Tax department to seek information from Flipkart on Walmart buyout, ascertain tax liability

<p>Mothers are God's gift, it is said that the Almighty created mothers because he could not be everywhere. On the occasion of Mother's Day, we bring to you a story of a fighter who dreams differently, battled all odds to write her own destiny and chose to be a single mother.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Soniya Choudhary suffered an acid attack in 2004. Before sharing with us her bond of love with her daughter, she explains the horrific incident that changed her life forever.</p>

<p>Soniya carries a beautiful smile on her face, with the same smile she went on to explain her plight, what all she went it through after having survived the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Soniya used to work at a salon and stayed outdoors for most of the day. Her parents insisted on buying a cellphone to stay connected. A man from her neighbourhood got her a cellphone. Soniya paid for the cell phone but later found out that the device was stolen from a cop. She gave the cop the details of the man; the man was arrested but was soon released.</p>

<p>Soniya was forced to apologise by the man but she did not give in. He also tried to influence others to make her apologise. The man started threatening her, that is when Soniya's parents decided that her father will be dropping and picking her up from work. It was the day when Soniya&nbsp;decided to return home on her own, as she was just 15 steps from home, she was attacked by two men on a bike. They threw acid on her and fled.</p>

<p>"At first it felt like someone has thrown lukewarm water on me. But after few seconds, my skin started melting like plastic. It felt like several ants are crawling and scratching my skin. I started shouting but all in vain. As there were many people around me but no one helped. Thankfully my house was nearby", Soniya remembers the horrendous incidence.</p>

<p>Soniya's condition was critical. She was moved to Safdarjung Hospital overnight. She regained consciousness after spending over 45 days in ICU, doctors had given up as she weighed only 28 kgs and had 55% burns. She had very minimal chances of survival.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I was treated roughly at the hospital. I used to bleed when they changed my dressing. They used to beat me if I protested. Everyone thought I would eventually die. I thought if I had to die then I would rather die at home", expresses Soniya in grief.</p>

<p>"All this happened because I did not apologise for something I didn’t do? His ego was more valuable than anyone’s life?" she questions.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Soniya does not call herself a survivour, she describes herself as a fighter. She now runs a salon but her dream project is '<em>Astitva</em>', a salon that aims to bring victims and surviours of attacks and atrocities like acid attacks, domestic violence, rape.</p>

<p>At first, Soniya started the salon at her home before her sister gave birth to a baby girl. "I really wanted to set an example and I adopted her when she was just 15 days old. She added another purpose to my life. I became a single mother", shares Soniya.</p>

<p>"When Vanshika was a toddler I was afraid. I didn’t know how she will react to my situation. I thought I should get a surgery done. But nothing like that happened. In fact, she feels very proud that I am her mother. When her school teacher inquires about me, my daughter feels very proud," Soniya notes.</p>

<p>Soniya leaves a strong message for the society. She believes that every parent should educate their girls and make them strong enough to deal with any kind of a situation. She recounts incidents when she was looked down upon and was called worthless by her own relatives.</p>

<p>"The attack didn't make any difference to me. I empowered myself by unveiling the face. Now, nobody has the courage to say that I'm worthless because I have achieved something in life," Soniya affirms.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


"All this happened because I did not apologise for something I didn’t do? His ego was more valuable than anyone’s life?"

Mothers are God's gift, it is said that the Almighty created mothers because he could not be everywhere. On the occasion of Mother's Day, we bring to you a story of a fighter who dreams differently, battled all odds to write her own destiny and chose to be a single mother. Soniya Choudhary suffered an acid attack in 2004. Before sharing with us her bond of love with her daughter, she explains the horrific incident that changed her life forever. Soniya carries a beautiful smile on her face, with the same smile she went on to explain her plight, what all she went it through after having survived the attack. Soniya used to work at a salon and stayed outdoors for most of the day. Her parents insisted on buying a cellphone to stay connected. A man from her neighbourhood got her a cellphone. Soniya paid for the cell phone but later found out that the device was stolen from a cop. She gave the cop the details of the man; the man was arrested but was soon released. Soniya was forced to apologise by the man but she did not give in. He also tried to influence others to make her apologise. The man started threatening her, that is when Soniya's parents decided that her father will be dropping and picking her up from work. It was the day when Soniya decided to return home on her own, as she was just 15 steps from home, she was attacked by two men on a bike. They threw acid on her and fled. "At first it felt like someone has thrown lukewarm water on me. But after few seconds, my skin started melting like plastic. It felt like several ants are crawling and scratching my skin. I started shouting but all in vain. As there were many people around me but no one helped. Thankfully my house was nearby", Soniya remembers the horrendous incidence. Soniya's condition was critical. She was moved to Safdarjung Hospital overnight. She regained consciousness after spending over 45 days in ICU, doctors had given up as she weighed only 28 kgs and had 55% burns. She had very minimal chances of survival. "I was treated roughly at the hospital. I used to bleed when they changed my dressing. They used to beat me if I protested. Everyone thought I would eventually die. I thought if I had to die then I would rather die at home", expresses Soniya in grief. "All this happened because I did not apologise for something I didn’t do? His ego was more valuable than anyone’s life?" she questions. Soniya does not call herself a survivour, she describes herself as a fighter. She now runs a salon but her dream project is 'Astitva', a salon that aims to bring victims and surviours of attacks and atrocities like acid attacks, domestic violence, rape. At first, Soniya started the salon at her home before her sister gave birth to a baby girl. "I really wanted to set an example and I adopted her when she was just 15 days old. She added another purpose to my life. I became a single mother", shares Soniya. "When Vanshika was a toddler I was afraid. I didn’t know how she will react to my situation. I thought I should get a surgery done. But nothing like that happened. In fact, she feels very proud that I am her mother. When her school teacher inquires about me, my daughter feels very proud," Soniya notes. Soniya leaves a strong message for the society. She believes that every parent should educate their girls and make them strong enough to deal with any kind of a situation. She recounts incidents when she was looked down upon and was called worthless by her own relatives. "The attack didn't make any difference to me. I empowered myself by unveiling the face. Now, nobody has the courage to say that I'm worthless because I have achieved something in life," Soniya affirms.

Mother's day special: 'I didn't know how will my daughter react to my face,' says acid attack victim

<p>That Ranveer Singh has been crushing on girlfriend Deepika Padukone's recent red carpet looks at Cannes is a known fact. But its seems Ranveer and Deepika's fans aren't the only people loving her red carpet looks. Anushka Sharma also seems to have given her thumbs to the actress' Cannes outing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While at Cannes, Deepika was updating fans with her various looks through her Instagram page. Anushka posted, “Deepika you looked absolutely stunning on the carpet” to which Deepika wrote back, " Thank you so much Anushka!! Lots of love”</p>

<p><img alt="deepika anushka insta.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/deepika%20anushka%20insta.jpg" width="770" /></p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0 padding:0 4px"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BiwWjzYhofL/" style=" color:#000 font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px text-decoration:none word-wrap:break-word" target="_blank">because every picture has a story to tell(Part 2)...?</a></p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0 padding:0 4px"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bir0hUyBhxa/" style=" color:#000 font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px text-decoration:none word-wrap:break-word" target="_blank">??? @moniquelhuillier @maisonvalentino @lorealmakeup @lorealhair @lorealskin #lorealparisindia</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px line-height:17px margin-bottom:0 margin-top:8px overflow:hidden padding:8px 0 7px text-align:center text-overflow:ellipsis white-space:nowrap">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/deepikapadukone/" style=" color:#c9c8cd font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px" target="_blank"> Deepika Padukone</a> (@deepikapadukone) on <time datetime="2018-05-12T16:49:55+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px line-height:17px">May 12, 2018 at 9:49am PDT</time></p>
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<p>While it's a known fact that Anushka and Katrina are friends, this is perhaps the first time that Deepika and Anushka have had such a conversation on social media. Anushka was rumoured to be dating Ranveer Singh years back before Ranveer and Deepika started dating. So does this recent conversation between the two top actresses hint at a new friendship? Only time will tell.</p>


That Ranveer Singh has been crushing on girlfriend Deepika Padukone's recent red carpet looks at Cannes is a known fact. But its seems Ranveer and Deepika's fans aren't the only people loving her red carpet looks. Anushka Sharma also seems to have given her thumbs to the actress' Cannes outing. While at Cannes, Deepika was updating fans with her various looks through her Instagram page. Anushka posted, “Deepika you looked absolutely stunning on the carpet” to which Deepika wrote back, " Thank you so much Anushka!! Lots of love” because every picture has a story to tell(Part 2)...? A post shared by Deepika Padukone (@deepikapadukone) on May 14, 2018 at 4:04am PDT × A post shared by Deepika Padukone (@deepikapadukone) on May 14, 2018 at 1:57am PDT × ??? @moniquelhuillier @maisonvalentino @lorealmakeup @lorealhair @lorealskin #lorealparisindia A post shared by Deepika Padukone (@deepikapadukone) on May 12, 2018 at 9:49am PDT × While it's a known fact that Anushka and Katrina are friends, this is perhaps the first time that Deepika and Anushka have had such a conversation on social media. Anushka was rumoured to be dating Ranveer Singh years back before Ranveer and Deepika started dating. So does this recent conversation between the two top actresses hint at a new friendship? Only time will tell.

Not just Ranveer Singh, but Anushka Sharma also loves Deepika Padukone's Cannes red carpet looks

<p>After holding informal talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Prime Minister Modi is all set to visit Russia to attend an informal summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin.</p>

<p>The summit will be held in Sochi on May 21.</p>

<p>The informal summit is being organised to keep the tradition of regular consultations between Indian and Russia at the highest level.</p>

<p>The talks further aim at strengthening Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. Both leaders will also discuss their respective national developmental priorities and bilateral matters.</p>

<p>The two leaders&nbsp;are also expected to exchange views on international matters in a broad and long-term perspective.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Modi held a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Wuhan, last month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The "informal summit" between the two leaders aimed at diffusing tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).</p>

<p>After the meeting, the militaries of the two nation&nbsp;are reportedly setting up a "hotline" which was regarded as a major Confidence Building Measure(CBM) between the two sides, a Chinese media stated.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The informal Summit in Russia's Sochi between PM Modi and President Putin is in keeping with the tradition of regular consultations between India and Russia at the highest levels.</p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/995992377822097408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The summit will be held in Sochi on May 21

After holding informal talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Prime Minister Modi is all set to visit Russia to attend an informal summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The summit will be held in Sochi on May 21. The informal summit is being organised to keep the tradition of regular consultations between Indian and Russia at the highest level. The talks further aim at strengthening Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. Both leaders will also discuss their respective national developmental priorities and bilateral matters. The two leaders are also expected to exchange views on international matters in a broad and long-term perspective. Prime Minister Modi held a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Wuhan, last month. The "informal summit" between the two leaders aimed at diffusing tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). After the meeting, the militaries of the two nation are reportedly setting up a "hotline" which was regarded as a major Confidence Building Measure(CBM) between the two sides, a Chinese media stated. The informal Summit in Russia's Sochi between PM Modi and President Putin is in keeping with the tradition of regular consultations between India and Russia at the highest levels. — ANI (@ANI) May 14, 2018 ×

After China, PM Modi to hold informal summit in Russia with President Vladimir Putin

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sunanda-pushkar-death-delhi-police-files-fir-against-congress-mp-shashi-tharoor-136735">Sunanda Pushkar death: Delhi Police names Congress MP Shashi Tharoor in FIR</a></p>

<p>Delhi Police today filed a First Information Report(FIR) in the death of Sunanda Pushkar, wife of MP Shashi Tharoor, naming the Congress leader as one of the accused.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-set-to-open-embassy-in-jerusalem-amid-clashes-in-gaza-136710">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-set-to-open-embassy-in-jerusalem-amid-clashes-in-gaza-136710"> set to open </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-set-to-open-embassy-in-jerusalem-amid-clashes-in-gaza-136710">embassy</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-set-to-open-embassy-in-jerusalem-amid-clashes-in-gaza-136710"> in Jerusalem amid clashes in Gaza</a></p>

<p>The United States will open its embassy in Jerusalem today even as Palestinians clash with Isreali forces at Gaza.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-unrest-2-palestinians-killed-35-injured-by-israeli-forces-136718">Gaza unrest: 2 Palestinians killed, 35 injured by Israeli forces</a></p>

<p>As the United States embassy is all set to shift from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem on Monday, two Palestinian were killed by Israeli forces during the Gaza protests continuing for the sixth week.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-rises-to-71-due-to-lightning-thunderstorm-in-5-states-136703">Death toll rises to 71 due to lightning, </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-rises-to-71-due-to-lightning-thunderstorm-in-5-states-136703">thunderstorm</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-rises-to-71-due-to-lightning-thunderstorm-in-5-states-136703"> in 5 states</a></p>

<p>As many as 71 people lost their lives in five states, including 42 in Uttar Pradesh, due to lightning and thunderstorms since Sunday, the Home Ministry said today.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/as-mark-zuckerberg-turns-34-heres-exploring-foodie-side-of-facebooks-chief-136701">Life beyond Cambridge Analytica: Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg turns 34</a></p>

<p>Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg rings in his 34th birthday today. The chief of one of the world's biggest social networking giants is well known for his love for fitness and food.</p>


Sunanda Pushkar death: Delhi Police names Congress MP Shashi Tharoor in FIR Delhi Police today filed a First Information Report(FIR) in the death of Sunanda Pushkar, wife of MP Shashi Tharoor, naming the Congress leader as one of the accused. US set to open embassy in Jerusalem amid clashes in Gaza The United States will open its embassy in Jerusalem today even as Palestinians clash with Isreali forces at Gaza. Gaza unrest: 2 Palestinians killed, 35 injured by Israeli forces As the United States embassy is all set to shift from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem on Monday, two Palestinian were killed by Israeli forces during the Gaza protests continuing for the sixth week. Death toll rises to 71 due to lightning, thunderstorm in 5 states As many as 71 people lost their lives in five states, including 42 in Uttar Pradesh, due to lightning and thunderstorms since Sunday, the Home Ministry said today. Life beyond Cambridge Analytica: Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg turns 34 Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg rings in his 34th birthday today. The chief of one of the world's biggest social networking giants is well known for his love for fitness and food.

WION evening news brief, May 14, 2018

<p>Vir Das is a name synonymous to some of the&nbsp;finest stand-up acts spread across the world. After successfully exploring 'The Boarding World Tour' spanning across 6 continents and more than 26 countries, Vir is back with another pleasant surprise. Vir Das has been signed on by ABC for a new hour-long weekly dramedy series, Whiskey Cavalier which is being produced by Warner Brothers.<br />
This marks his second venture into American television series space after Theory was announced last year for another network.</p>

<p>On his new show, Vir said, “I had such a good time shooting the pilot. It’s an exciting time to bring Indian voices to American television. This is a comedy team and a cast that is the right mix of laughs and action. I’m looking forward to saving the world with some hilarious people. It was something that the universe sent my way while I was on tour in the US. I ended up meeting the team and we found this character together.”</p>

<p>It will be an hour-long high octane action dramedy following the FBI super agent, Will Chase who has a code name of Whiskey Cavalier. Vir Das will be seen essaying the role as one of the main leads in the series playing the role of Jai Datta. Vir sneakily shot the pilot earlier this year in Prague for three weeks and now the show has been officially been picked up by one of the leading networks in the US, ABC.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Priyanka Chopra was the first one from Bollywood to get into American TV series and was part of one of the series named &nbsp;Quantico which had three series and now has come to an end. Now Its time for Vir Das to showcase his talent in the Hollywood.</p>


Comedian Vir Das has been signed on by ABC for a new hour-long weekly dramedy FBI series "Whiskey Cavalier", produced by Warner Brothers. He feels it's an exciting time to bring Indian voices to American television.

Vir Das is a name synonymous to some of the finest stand-up acts spread across the world. After successfully exploring 'The Boarding World Tour' spanning across 6 continents and more than 26 countries, Vir is back with another pleasant surprise. Vir Das has been signed on by ABC for a new hour-long weekly dramedy series, Whiskey Cavalier which is being produced by Warner Brothers. This marks his second venture into American television series space after Theory was announced last year for another network. On his new show, Vir said, “I had such a good time shooting the pilot. It’s an exciting time to bring Indian voices to American television. This is a comedy team and a cast that is the right mix of laughs and action. I’m looking forward to saving the world with some hilarious people. It was something that the universe sent my way while I was on tour in the US. I ended up meeting the team and we found this character together.” It will be an hour-long high octane action dramedy following the FBI super agent, Will Chase who has a code name of Whiskey Cavalier. Vir Das will be seen essaying the role as one of the main leads in the series playing the role of Jai Datta. Vir sneakily shot the pilot earlier this year in Prague for three weeks and now the show has been officially been picked up by one of the leading networks in the US, ABC. Priyanka Chopra was the first one from Bollywood to get into American TV series and was part of one of the series named Quantico which had three series and now has come to an end. Now Its time for Vir Das to showcase his talent in the Hollywood.

Vir Das to make his entry in American TV Series 'Whiskey Cavalier' as FBI agent

<p>Congress nominee Vishwakeet Kadam's election from Palus Kadegaon Assembly seat in the bypoll scheduled later this month is a mere formality now as the main rival BJP has withdrawn from the race.</p>

<p>The bypoll, scheduled on May 28, was necessitated because of the death of sitting Congress MLA and former minister Patangrao Kadam.</p>

<p>The Congress has fielded his son Vishwajeet Kadam from the seat.</p>

<p>The BJP had earlier finalised the candidature of Sangramsing Deshmukh for the byelection to Palus-Kadegaon Assembly constituency in Maharashtra's Sangli's district.</p>

<p>Deshmukh is the president of Sangli Zilla Parishad and deputy chairman of Sangli District Cooperative Bank.</p>

<p>On the last day of withdrawal of nomination papers on Monday, state revenue minister Chandrakant Patil told reporters at Kadepur taluka in Sangli that the BJP will not contest the bypoll.</p>

<p>The Shiv Sena had last week announced its support for the Congress nominee.</p>

<p>Vishwajeet Kadam, the son of Patangrao Kadam, is the only mainstream candidate now in fray for the byelection.</p>

<p>He had unsuccessfully contested from the Pune Lok Sabha seat in the 2014 elections.</p>

<p>He inherits a strong legacy from his father in the form of control over a Sangli-based cooperative sugar mill, several dairies, educational institutes and cooperative societies in the western Maharashtra district.</p>

<p>The winner of the bypoll will hold the office for just over a year, as the term of the current Assembly ends in October 2019.&nbsp</p>


Congress nominee Vishwakeet Kadam's election from Palus Kadegaon Assembly seat in the bypoll scheduled later this month is a mere formality now as the main rival BJP has withdrawn from the race

Congress nominee Vishwakeet Kadam's election from Palus Kadegaon Assembly seat in the bypoll scheduled later this month is a mere formality now as the main rival BJP has withdrawn from the race. The bypoll, scheduled on May 28, was necessitated because of the death of sitting Congress MLA and former minister Patangrao Kadam. The Congress has fielded his son Vishwajeet Kadam from the seat. The BJP had earlier finalised the candidature of Sangramsing Deshmukh for the byelection to Palus-Kadegaon Assembly constituency in Maharashtra's Sangli's district. Deshmukh is the president of Sangli Zilla Parishad and deputy chairman of Sangli District Cooperative Bank. On the last day of withdrawal of nomination papers on Monday, state revenue minister Chandrakant Patil told reporters at Kadepur taluka in Sangli that the BJP will not contest the bypoll. The Shiv Sena had last week announced its support for the Congress nominee. Vishwajeet Kadam, the son of Patangrao Kadam, is the only mainstream candidate now in fray for the byelection. He had unsuccessfully contested from the Pune Lok Sabha seat in the 2014 elections. He inherits a strong legacy from his father in the form of control over a Sangli-based cooperative sugar mill, several dairies, educational institutes and cooperative societies in the western Maharashtra district. The winner of the bypoll will hold the office for just over a year, as the term of the current Assembly ends in October 2019.

BJP withdraws from race for Palus-Kadegaon Assembly bypoll

<p>Delhi Police today filed a First Information Report(FIR) in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/shashi-tharoors-wife-sunanda-pushkar-was-poisoned-report-35475">the death of Sunanda Pushkar</a>, wife of MP Shashi Tharoor, naming the Congress leader as one of the accused.</p>

<p>Sunanda Pushkar was found dead in a Delhi hotel under mysterious circumstances on January 17, 2014. Tharoor had married Sunanda four years earlier on&nbsp;August, 2010.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">1/2 I have taken note of the filing of this preposterous charge sheet &intend to contest it vigorously. No one who knew Sunanda believes she would ever have committed suicide, let alone abetment on my part. If this is conclusion arrived at after 4+ yrs of investigation, (contd.)</p>
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/995977116884729856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">2/2) it does not speak well of the methods or motivations of the Delhi Police. In oct 17, the Law Officer made a statement in the DelhiHighCourt that they have not found anything against anyone & now in 6 months they say that I have abetted a suicide. unbelievable!</p>
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/995977356933136384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Shashi Tharoor was charged under sections 498 A (husband or his relative subjecting a woman to cruelty) and 306 (abetment of suicide) of the Indian Penal Code.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The chargesheet said that Pushkar died within three years, three months and 15 days of her marriage with Tharoor.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Tharoor tweeted saying he intended to contest the "preposterous chargesheet" vigorously, alleging that "it does not speak well of the methods or motivations of the Delhi Police."</p>

<p>"The Law officer made a statement in the Dehli High Court that they have not found anything against anyone and now in six months they say that I have abetted a suicide," he said, adding,"unbelievable."</p>

<p>The Delhi Police had filed an FIR on January 1, 2015 against unknown persons under IPC section 302 (murder).</p>

<p>Speaking on the issue, BJP leader Subramanian Swamy said: "All witnesses & documents were destroyed by UPA govt & corrupt police. On basis of current evidence, this is what could be done."</p>

<p>"More information will come during the trial. There are allegations on Shashi Tharoor that he forced his wife to commit suicide," he added.</p>


Sunanda Pushkar was found dead in a Delhi hotel under mysterious circumstances on January 17, 2014.

Delhi Police today filed a First Information Report(FIR) in the death of Sunanda Pushkar, wife of MP Shashi Tharoor, naming the Congress leader as one of the accused. Sunanda Pushkar was found dead in a Delhi hotel under mysterious circumstances on January 17, 2014. Tharoor had married Sunanda four years earlier on August, 2010. 1/2 I have taken note of the filing of this preposterous charge sheet &intend to contest it vigorously. No one who knew Sunanda believes she would ever have committed suicide, let alone abetment on my part. If this is conclusion arrived at after 4+ yrs of investigation, (contd.) — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) May 14, 2018 × 2/2) it does not speak well of the methods or motivations of the Delhi Police. In oct 17, the Law Officer made a statement in the DelhiHighCourt that they have not found anything against anyone & now in 6 months they say that I have abetted a suicide. unbelievable! — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) May 14, 2018 × Shashi Tharoor was charged under sections 498 A (husband or his relative subjecting a woman to cruelty) and 306 (abetment of suicide) of the Indian Penal Code. The chargesheet said that Pushkar died within three years, three months and 15 days of her marriage with Tharoor. Meanwhile, Tharoor tweeted saying he intended to contest the "preposterous chargesheet" vigorously, alleging that "it does not speak well of the methods or motivations of the Delhi Police." "The Law officer made a statement in the Dehli High Court that they have not found anything against anyone and now in six months they say that I have abetted a suicide," he said, adding,"unbelievable." The Delhi Police had filed an FIR on January 1, 2015 against unknown persons under IPC section 302 (murder). Speaking on the issue, BJP leader Subramanian Swamy said: "All witnesses & documents were destroyed by UPA govt & corrupt police. On basis of current evidence, this is what could be done." "More information will come during the trial. There are allegations on Shashi Tharoor that he forced his wife to commit suicide," he added.

Sunanda Pushkar death: Delhi Police names Congress MP Shashi Tharoor in FIR

<p>Massive violence has been reported from West Bengal, where panchayat elections are being held today.&nbsp;</p>

<p>ANI reported that a TMC worker named Arif Gazi was shot dead in the Kultali area of South 24 Parganas district.</p>

<p>ANI added that a BJP candidate from Bilkanda was injured in a&nbsp;knife attack, allegedly by TMC workers. ANI identified the BJP candidate as Raju Biswas and said he is undergoing treatment at Panihati State General Hospital.</p>

<p>At least 20 people were injured in a crude bomb explosion in Amdanga's Sadhanpur in North 24 Parganas.</p>

<p>And five local journalists were injured in violence following booth capturing in Birpara, allegedly by TMC workers.</p>

<p>In another incident, a CPM worker and his wife were charred to death in North 24 Parganas after their house was allegedly burnt down on Sunday night.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Election Commission meanwhile reported a 56% voter turnout till 3 pm.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Overall 56% polling recorded till 3 pm in West Bengal <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PanchayatElection?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PanchayatElection</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/995975141887651840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The elections are being held after a series of court cases and reports of foul play by workers of the ruling Trinamool Congress.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, a record 34 per cent seats has been won unopposed by the Trinamool Congress, but the Supreme Court stayed the notification of the results.</p>

<p>The court said elections have to be held "in absolute fairness".&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Not surprised by all the incidents that are happening since morning. Bengal govt is a shameless govt, you cannot expect them to follow any kind of constitutional behaviour. I demand President's Rule in WB: Babul Supriyo, Union Min on violence in various during <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PanchayatElection?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PanchayatElection</a> <a href="https://t.co/ElEr4OSbaf">pic.twitter.com/ElEr4OSbaf</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/995927330366226433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There are minor incidents taking place, no major incidents have been reported. Administration is active in places where such clashes have taken place. Voting is being conducted peaceful. I strongly condemn the attack on journalists: Partha Chatterjee, TMC <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PanchayatElection?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PanchayatElection</a> <a href="https://t.co/SXwjExlQRH">pic.twitter.com/SXwjExlQRH</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/995930017505820672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>As many as 20 people were injured in fresh clashes which broke out between two groups here in Cooch Behar on Monday morning, amid the ongoing panchayat polls in the state.</p>

<p>As per a local, a number of individuals had gone to cast their vote at a polling station here, when they were attacked with sticks by a group of All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers. Subsequently, the injured were admitted to MJN Hospital for treatment.</p>

<p>"A group of us had gone to cast our vote at a polling booth. We were attacked by a group of TMC workers with lathis (sticks)," an injured local told ANI.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporter Sujit Kumar Das was slapped by West Bengal Minister Rabindra Nath Ghosh at Cooch Behar`s booth no. 8/12 in the presence of police.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: On being identified, BJP supporter Sujit Kumar Das, was slapped by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengal</a> Minister Rabindra Nath Ghosh (in purple kurta) at Cooch Behar's booth no. 8/12 in presence of Police. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PanchayatElection?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PanchayatElection</a> <a href="https://t.co/9S2gyAoNQt">pic.twitter.com/9S2gyAoNQt</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/995884416554577920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Incidents of violence were also reported from Bhangar, where a media vehicle was torched and a camera broken, after which media was prohibited from entering the area.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Alleged TMC workers barring voters from entering Booth No. 14/79 in Birpara. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PanchayatElections?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PanchayatElections</a> <a href="https://t.co/S3OR83QfHp">pic.twitter.com/S3OR83QfHp</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/995874967714590720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Furthermore, Bhangar locals blocked the roads, alleging that TMC workers were capturing the polling booth.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Road blocked by locals in Bhangar. They allege TMC workers of capturing the booth. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PanchayatElections?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PanchayatElections</a>. <a href="https://t.co/4KyJ8WWXgR">pic.twitter.com/4KyJ8WWXgR</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/995884423651381248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>On the other hand, a TMC worker, Anarul Mita, suffered bullet injuries in an attack in Cooch Behar`s Dinhata on late Sunday night, after which he was admitted to the hospital in a critical condition.</p>

<p>The Trinamool Congress was quick to respond to the allegations of violence by its workers. It blamed a section of the media for biased reporting:&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Why is <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ANI</a> spreading rumours and amplifying a few, sporadic, local incidents? We learn that local ANI reporters and stringers getting direct instructions from their bosses in Delhi to shame <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bengal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bengal</a>. Agenda driven news-gathering: Derek O'Brien <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PanchayatElection?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PanchayatElection</a></p>
— AITC (@AITCofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/AITCofficial/status/995932119229644802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The victim has alleged that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers are behind the attack. On a related note, the voting, which began at 7 a.m. on Monday morning, will continue till 5 p.m. in 621 zilla parishads, 6157 panchayat samitis, and 31,827 gram panchayats. The counting will take place on May 17.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In a joint operation, troops of CRPF's 193 Battalion & <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jharkhand?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jharkhand</a> Police recovered 482 gelatin sticks, 889 detonators, wires etc in Eats Singhbhum's Digri. <a href="https://t.co/zYCf4JprIz">pic.twitter.com/zYCf4JprIz</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/995882377699250176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from ANI)</em></p>


News reports said at least four people had been killed and scores, including journalists, injured in violence

Massive violence has been reported from West Bengal, where panchayat elections are being held today. ANI reported that a TMC worker named Arif Gazi was shot dead in the Kultali area of South 24 Parganas district. ANI added that a BJP candidate from Bilkanda was injured in a knife attack, allegedly by TMC workers. ANI identified the BJP candidate as Raju Biswas and said he is undergoing treatment at Panihati State General Hospital. At least 20 people were injured in a crude bomb explosion in Amdanga's Sadhanpur in North 24 Parganas. And five local journalists were injured in violence following booth capturing in Birpara, allegedly by TMC workers. In another incident, a CPM worker and his wife were charred to death in North 24 Parganas after their house was allegedly burnt down on Sunday night. The Election Commission meanwhile reported a 56% voter turnout till 3 pm. Overall 56% polling recorded till 3 pm in West Bengal #PanchayatElection — ANI (@ANI) May 14, 2018 × The elections are being held after a series of court cases and reports of foul play by workers of the ruling Trinamool Congress. Earlier, a record 34 per cent seats has been won unopposed by the Trinamool Congress, but the Supreme Court stayed the notification of the results. The court said elections have to be held "in absolute fairness". Not surprised by all the incidents that are happening since morning. Bengal govt is a shameless govt, you cannot expect them to follow any kind of constitutional behaviour. I demand President's Rule in WB: Babul Supriyo, Union Min on violence in various during #PanchayatElection pic.twitter.com/ElEr4OSbaf — ANI (@ANI) May 14, 2018 × There are minor incidents taking place, no major incidents have been reported. Administration is active in places where such clashes have taken place. Voting is being conducted peaceful. I strongly condemn the attack on journalists: Partha Chatterjee, TMC #PanchayatElection pic.twitter.com/SXwjExlQRH — ANI (@ANI) May 14, 2018 × As many as 20 people were injured in fresh clashes which broke out between two groups here in Cooch Behar on Monday morning, amid the ongoing panchayat polls in the state. As per a local, a number of individuals had gone to cast their vote at a polling station here, when they were attacked with sticks by a group of All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers. Subsequently, the injured were admitted to MJN Hospital for treatment. "A group of us had gone to cast our vote at a polling booth. We were attacked by a group of TMC workers with lathis (sticks)," an injured local told ANI. Meanwhile, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporter Sujit Kumar Das was slapped by West Bengal Minister Rabindra Nath Ghosh at Cooch Behar`s booth no. 8/12 in the presence of police. #WATCH: On being identified, BJP supporter Sujit Kumar Das, was slapped by #WestBengal Minister Rabindra Nath Ghosh (in purple kurta) at Cooch Behar's booth no. 8/12 in presence of Police. #PanchayatElection pic.twitter.com/9S2gyAoNQt — ANI (@ANI) May 14, 2018 × Incidents of violence were also reported from Bhangar, where a media vehicle was torched and a camera broken, after which media was prohibited from entering the area. #WATCH: Alleged TMC workers barring voters from entering Booth No. 14/79 in Birpara. #WestBengal #PanchayatElections pic.twitter.com/S3OR83QfHp — ANI (@ANI) May 14, 2018 × Furthermore, Bhangar locals blocked the roads, alleging that TMC workers were capturing the polling booth. #WATCH: Road blocked by locals in Bhangar. They allege TMC workers of capturing the booth. #WestBengal #PanchayatElections. pic.twitter.com/4KyJ8WWXgR — ANI (@ANI) May 14, 2018 × On the other hand, a TMC worker, Anarul Mita, suffered bullet injuries in an attack in Cooch Behar`s Dinhata on late Sunday night, after which he was admitted to the hospital in a critical condition. The Trinamool Congress was quick to respond to the allegations of violence by its workers. It blamed a section of the media for biased reporting: Why is @ANI spreading rumours and amplifying a few, sporadic, local incidents? We learn that local ANI reporters and stringers getting direct instructions from their bosses in Delhi to shame #Bengal. Agenda driven news-gathering: Derek O'Brien #PanchayatElection — AITC (@AITCofficial) May 14, 2018 × The victim has alleged that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers are behind the attack. On a related note, the voting, which began at 7 a.m. on Monday morning, will continue till 5 p.m. in 621 zilla parishads, 6157 panchayat samitis, and 31,827 gram panchayats. The counting will take place on May 17. In a joint operation, troops of CRPF's 193 Battalion & #Jharkhand Police recovered 482 gelatin sticks, 889 detonators, wires etc in Eats Singhbhum's Digri. pic.twitter.com/zYCf4JprIz — ANI (@ANI) May 14, 2018 × (With inputs from ANI)

West Bengal panchayat polls: 56% polling recorded amid massive violence

<p>The Central Bureau of Investigation on Monday filed its first chargesheet in&nbsp;the PNB Scam worth over $2 billion, in a special court in Mumbai.</p>

<p>The chargesheet highlights the alleged role of banks' former chief Usha Ananthasubramanian, while also naming several other top officials of the bank.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-nirav-modi-the-billionaire-jeweller-at-centre-of-rs-11000-crore-scam-32970"><em>Who is Nirav Modi, the billionaire jeweller at </em></a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-nirav-modi-the-billionaire-jeweller-at-centre-of-rs-11000-crore-scam-32970"><em>centre</em></a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-nirav-modi-the-billionaire-jeweller-at-centre-of-rs-11000-crore-scam-32970"><em> of Rs 11,400 crore PNB scam</em></a></p>

<p>Besides&nbsp;Ananthasubramanian, the chargesheet also&nbsp;includes the name of PNB executive directors K V Brahmaji Rao and Sanjiv Sharan, and general manager (international operations) Nehal Ahad.</p>

<p>Ananthasubramanian was the MD and CEO of PNB from 2015 to 2017.</p>

<p>The first chargesheet details the role of Nirav Modi, his brother Nishal Modi and Subhash Parab, an executive in their company while not giving many details about the role played by Mehul Chowki.</p>

<p>The chargesheet majorly deals with the issuance of Rs 6,000 crores of Letters of Undertaking to Diamond R US, Solar Exports and Stellar Diamonds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Secretary, Department of Financial Services (DFS)&nbsp;Rajiv Kumar also said that the department has asked the boards of the Punjab National Bank and Allahabad Bank to divest the powers of all the accused in the case.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "Today, we have directed directors of PNB and Allahabad&nbsp;bank to divest all the powers of those who are accused".</p>

<p>He further said that they have&nbsp;initiated the removal of 3 board level officers, 2 ED officers of Punjab National Bank and 1 MD of Allahabad Bank.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Secretary, Department of Financial Services (DFS) Rajiv Kumar said that the department has asked the boards of the Punjab National Bank and Allahabad Bank to divest the powers of all the accused in the case

The Central Bureau of Investigation on Monday filed its first chargesheet in the PNB Scam worth over $2 billion, in a special court in Mumbai. The chargesheet highlights the alleged role of banks' former chief Usha Ananthasubramanian, while also naming several other top officials of the bank. Also read: Who is Nirav Modi, the billionaire jeweller at centre of Rs 11,400 crore PNB scam Besides Ananthasubramanian, the chargesheet also includes the name of PNB executive directors K V Brahmaji Rao and Sanjiv Sharan, and general manager (international operations) Nehal Ahad. Ananthasubramanian was the MD and CEO of PNB from 2015 to 2017. The first chargesheet details the role of Nirav Modi, his brother Nishal Modi and Subhash Parab, an executive in their company while not giving many details about the role played by Mehul Chowki. The chargesheet majorly deals with the issuance of Rs 6,000 crores of Letters of Undertaking to Diamond R US, Solar Exports and Stellar Diamonds. The Secretary, Department of Financial Services (DFS) Rajiv Kumar also said that the department has asked the boards of the Punjab National Bank and Allahabad Bank to divest the powers of all the accused in the case. He said, "Today, we have directed directors of PNB and Allahabad bank to divest all the powers of those who are accused". He further said that they have initiated the removal of 3 board level officers, 2 ED officers of Punjab National Bank and 1 MD of Allahabad Bank.

PNB scam: CBI files first chargesheet in Mumbai special court

<p>As many as 71 people lost their lives in five states, including 42 in Uttar Pradesh, due to lightning and thunderstorms since Sunday, the Home Ministry said today.</p>

<p>Among the dead, 42 were in Uttar Pradesh, 14 in West Bengal, 12 in Andhra Pradesh, two in Delhi and one in Uttarakhand, a ministry spokesperson said.</p>

<p>Altogether 83 people were injured in Uttar Pradesh, 11 in Delhi and two in Uttarakhand.</p>

<p>A total of 24 districts in Uttar Pradesh, six in West Bengal, three in Andhra Pradesh, two in Delhi and one in Uttarakhand were hit by the lightning and thunderstorms, the spokesperson said.</p>

<p>Dust storms and thunderstorms wreaked havoc since Sunday in Delhi and parts of Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, leaving behind a trail of destruction.</p>

<p>High-velocity winds uprooted trees and affected road, rail and air services last evening in several places in north India, including the national capital.</p>

<p>Thunderstorms also occurred at isolated places in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Assam, Meghalaya, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) had said Sunday.&nbsp</p>

<p>The devastation comes over 12 days after storms hit Uttar Pradesh (UP), Rajasthan, Telangana, Uttarakhand and Punjab, killing 134 people and injuring over 400. UP was the worst affected, accounting for 80 deaths, most of them in Agra district in the western part of the state.</p>

<p>Subsequently, on May 9, several parts of Uttar Pradesh were struck by a severe storm that left 18 dead and 27 others injured.</p>


Among the dead, 42 were in Uttar Pradesh, 14 in West Bengal, 12 in Andhra Pradesh, two in Delhi and one in Uttarakhand, a ministry spokesperson said

As many as 71 people lost their lives in five states, including 42 in Uttar Pradesh, due to lightning and thunderstorms since Sunday, the Home Ministry said today. Among the dead, 42 were in Uttar Pradesh, 14 in West Bengal, 12 in Andhra Pradesh, two in Delhi and one in Uttarakhand, a ministry spokesperson said. Altogether 83 people were injured in Uttar Pradesh, 11 in Delhi and two in Uttarakhand. A total of 24 districts in Uttar Pradesh, six in West Bengal, three in Andhra Pradesh, two in Delhi and one in Uttarakhand were hit by the lightning and thunderstorms, the spokesperson said. Dust storms and thunderstorms wreaked havoc since Sunday in Delhi and parts of Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, leaving behind a trail of destruction. High-velocity winds uprooted trees and affected road, rail and air services last evening in several places in north India, including the national capital. Thunderstorms also occurred at isolated places in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Assam, Meghalaya, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) had said Sunday. The devastation comes over 12 days after storms hit Uttar Pradesh (UP), Rajasthan, Telangana, Uttarakhand and Punjab, killing 134 people and injuring over 400. UP was the worst affected, accounting for 80 deaths, most of them in Agra district in the western part of the state. Subsequently, on May 9, several parts of Uttar Pradesh were struck by a severe storm that left 18 dead and 27 others injured.

Death toll rises to 71 due to lightning, thunderstorm in 5 states

<p>Vaani Kapoor continues her collaboration with Yash Raj Films after "Shuddh Desi Romance"&nbsp;and "Befikre". The actor will star opposite Ranbir Kapoor in "Shamshera".</p>

<p>The 29-year-old actor will play the character of a desirable and sought-after travelling performer from the Indian heartland in Yash Raj Films’ action entertainer.</p>

<p>Director Karan Malhotra said the character played by Vaani acts as the catalyst to Ranbir’s character in the film and she is the perfect choice for the part. Vaani plays Ranbir’s love interest in the film and is a very important collaborator in his character’s journey. Her character graph is interlinked to the plot of the filmmaking her a crucial catalyst in our hero’s rebellious mission.</p>

<p>"Vaani is a perfect fit for the role. She is a fine actor, a fabulous dancer, and a gorgeous Hindi film heroine. We wanted someone absolutely fresh to wow audiences on the big screen and she beautifully fits that brief,” Malhotra said in a statement.</p>

<p>Sanjay Dutt has been roped in to play Shamshera’s merciless nemesis in the project. The film is set to go on floors end of this year and shooting will wrap by mid-2019.</p>


Vaani is said to play the role of a travelling performer from the heartland of India. 'Shamshera' is set to go on floors by the end of this year while its shooting will wrap by mid-2019.

Vaani Kapoor continues her collaboration with Yash Raj Films after "Shuddh Desi Romance" and "Befikre". The actor will star opposite Ranbir Kapoor in "Shamshera". The 29-year-old actor will play the character of a desirable and sought-after travelling performer from the Indian heartland in Yash Raj Films’ action entertainer. Director Karan Malhotra said the character played by Vaani acts as the catalyst to Ranbir’s character in the film and she is the perfect choice for the part. Vaani plays Ranbir’s love interest in the film and is a very important collaborator in his character’s journey. Her character graph is interlinked to the plot of the filmmaking her a crucial catalyst in our hero’s rebellious mission. "Vaani is a perfect fit for the role. She is a fine actor, a fabulous dancer, and a gorgeous Hindi film heroine. We wanted someone absolutely fresh to wow audiences on the big screen and she beautifully fits that brief,” Malhotra said in a statement. Sanjay Dutt has been roped in to play Shamshera’s merciless nemesis in the project. The film is set to go on floors end of this year and shooting will wrap by mid-2019.

Vani Kapoor all set to sizzle with Ranbir Kapoor in 'Shamshera'

<p>This is the year of Bollywood as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-cannes-2018-deepika-padukone-is-a-sight-to-behold-in-an-angelic-white-gown-136001">Deepika Padukone</a>, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-cannes-2018-kangana-ranaut-brings-back-vintage-fashion-on-her-debut-appearance-at-the-festival--135814">Kangana Ranaut</a>, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-cannes-2018-aishwarya-rai-bachchan-owns-the-red-carpet-as-always-136487">Aishwarya Rai Bachchan</a> and now Huma Qureshi has totally owned the Cannes Film Festival with their sartorial choices and style!</p>

<p>Seen earlier today for a show titled ‘Fashion for relief’, Huma made an appearance in a silver slip-on dress topped with an oversized sequin cape jacket. But wait, that’s not all as the highlight of her look was the dangerous high slit that goes all the way up to her thighs. Even her makeup and hairstyle complement her look as she has a very contemporary royal vibe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Huma Qureshi proved she has enough sass for an international film festival as she debuted this year. While making some noise, Huma spoke on sexual harassment at Cannes. She said, “Well, as a woman, absolutely, I have had to deal with people making advances at me, but not just people from the business of film industry, but people across different professions and different strata. I think it has a lot to do with power, it is not only limited to the film business.”</p>

<p>This is what she wore:&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0 padding:0 4px"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BivL1tZhdaB/" style=" color:#000 font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px text-decoration:none word-wrap:break-word" target="_blank">Tonight at @fashion4relief Styled by @mohitrai Hair @marcosverissimohair Outfit @elioaboufayssal Necklace @swarovski Earrings @outhousejewellery Shoes @alexandrebirman #fashion #humaqureshi #humaatcannes #Cannes #festivalfashion #fashionforrelief</a></p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0 padding:0 4px"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BivMSbvhDgu/" style=" color:#000 font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px text-decoration:none word-wrap:break-word" target="_blank">Yes, another one #fashionforrelief @fashion4relief @mohitrai #humaqureshi #humaatcannes #festivaldecannes #Cannes</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px line-height:17px margin-bottom:0 margin-top:8px overflow:hidden padding:8px 0 7px text-align:center text-overflow:ellipsis white-space:nowrap">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/iamhumaq/" style=" color:#c9c8cd font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px" target="_blank"> Huma Qureshi</a> (@iamhumaq) on <time datetime="2018-05-14T00:15:19+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px line-height:17px">May 13, 2018 at 5:15pm PDT</time></p>
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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0 padding:0 4px"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BivXzaclPDR/" style=" color:#000 font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px text-decoration:none word-wrap:break-word" target="_blank">Take it away girl ..Walk on .. You chart your own stars, you are your own light ?❤️ #humaatcannes #humaqureshi @mohitrai @elioaboufayssal #Cannes #2018 #festivaldecannes #festivaldecannes hair baby my amazing @marcosverissimohair</a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


After leading Bollywood actresses Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Kangana Ranaut and Deepika Padukone soared the temperatures at Cannes with their red carpet appearances, Huma stole the show with this outfit!

This is the year of Bollywood as Deepika Padukone, Kangana Ranaut, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and now Huma Qureshi has totally owned the Cannes Film Festival with their sartorial choices and style! Seen earlier today for a show titled ‘Fashion for relief’, Huma made an appearance in a silver slip-on dress topped with an oversized sequin cape jacket. But wait, that’s not all as the highlight of her look was the dangerous high slit that goes all the way up to her thighs. Even her makeup and hairstyle complement her look as she has a very contemporary royal vibe. Huma Qureshi proved she has enough sass for an international film festival as she debuted this year. While making some noise, Huma spoke on sexual harassment at Cannes. She said, “Well, as a woman, absolutely, I have had to deal with people making advances at me, but not just people from the business of film industry, but people across different professions and different strata. I think it has a lot to do with power, it is not only limited to the film business.” This is what she wore: Tonight at @fashion4relief Styled by @mohitrai Hair @marcosverissimohair Outfit @elioaboufayssal Necklace @swarovski Earrings @outhousejewellery Shoes @alexandrebirman #fashion #humaqureshi #humaatcannes #Cannes #festivalfashion #fashionforrelief A post shared by Huma Qureshi (@iamhumaq) on May 13, 2018 at 5:11pm PDT × Yes, another one #fashionforrelief @fashion4relief @mohitrai #humaqureshi #humaatcannes #festivaldecannes #Cannes A post shared by Huma Qureshi (@iamhumaq) on May 13, 2018 at 5:15pm PDT × Take it away girl ..Walk on .. You chart your own stars, you are your own light ?❤️ #humaatcannes #humaqureshi @mohitrai @elioaboufayssal #Cannes #2018 #festivaldecannes #festivaldecannes hair baby my amazing @marcosverissimohair A post shared by Huma Qureshi (@iamhumaq) on May 13, 2018 at 6:59pm PDT ×

Huma Qureshi is all fireworks at Cannes, watch her stand tall with a dangerous slit!

<p>Former prime minister Manmohan Singh has written to President Ram Nath Koving asking him to caution the Prime Minister against using threatening language.&nbsp;</p>

<p>ANI reported that Manmohan had said Prime Minister Modi should not use "unwarranted, threatening and intimidating language" against leaders of the Congress party or any other party.&nbsp;</p>

<p>ANI added Manmohan as saying in his letter that such language does not behove the position of the prime minister.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Former PM & senior Congress leader Manmohan Singh writes to President of India asking him to caution the PM from using unwarranted , threatening & intimidating language against the leaders of the Congress Party or any other party of person as it does not behove position of the PM <a href="https://t.co/4FHM5MPeB1">pic.twitter.com/4FHM5MPeB1</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/995945745684430848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Such language does not behove the position of the prime minister, former prime minister Manmohan Singh wrote in his letter to President Kovind

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh has written to President Ram Nath Koving asking him to caution the Prime Minister against using threatening language. ANI reported that Manmohan had said Prime Minister Modi should not use "unwarranted, threatening and intimidating language" against leaders of the Congress party or any other party. ANI added Manmohan as saying in his letter that such language does not behove the position of the prime minister. Former PM & senior Congress leader Manmohan Singh writes to President of India asking him to caution the PM from using unwarranted , threatening & intimidating language against the leaders of the Congress Party or any other party of person as it does not behove position of the PM pic.twitter.com/4FHM5MPeB1 — ANI (@ANI) May 14, 2018 ×

Caution PM against using unwarranted, threatening language, Manmohan writes to President

<p>A Thane court has awarded three years rigorous imprisonment to a 50-year-old man here for molesting a six-year-old physically disabled girl in 2016. Special judge R N Bawankar also imposed a fine of Rs 4,000 on the accused Mohammad Nasir Abdul Rashid Shaikh while pronouncing the punishment last week.&nbsp</p>

<p>According to the prosecution, the victim, residing in the Mumbra township here, went out of her home on October 21, 2016, to eat at a roadside food stall when the accused, who lived in her neighbourhood, forcibly took her away in an autorickshaw and allegedly raped her.</p>

<p>Later, the girl returned home but could not walk properly. She told her elder sister and mother about the incident. The girl’s parents then lodged a police complaint following which the accused was arrested and booked under IPC section 376 (rape) and relevant provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. After hearing both the sides and taking into account the medical report, the judge said the doctor who examined the girl concluded that there was an attempt to rape the minor.</p>

<p>As per the complaint and testimony of the informant, the accused raped the girl, but the medical officer opined that it was a case of attempt to rape, he noted. Considering the girl’s age and the nature of crime, it is difficult to hold that whether she can differentiate between rape and an attempt to rape, the judge said.</p>

<p>Thus, in view of the evidence of the girl, who is the only witness to the incident, and the medical reports on record, it is clear the accused outraged her modesty, he said. Hence, the accused committed the offence punishable under IPC section 354 (molestation) and provisions of the POCSO Act, and not under IPC section 376, the judge concluded while pronouncing the punishment on May 9.</p>


Special judge R N Bawankar also imposed a fine of Rs 4,000 on the accused Mohammad Nasir Abdul Rashid Shaikh while pronouncing the punishment last week.

A Thane court has awarded three years rigorous imprisonment to a 50-year-old man here for molesting a six-year-old physically disabled girl in 2016. Special judge R N Bawankar also imposed a fine of Rs 4,000 on the accused Mohammad Nasir Abdul Rashid Shaikh while pronouncing the punishment last week. According to the prosecution, the victim, residing in the Mumbra township here, went out of her home on October 21, 2016, to eat at a roadside food stall when the accused, who lived in her neighbourhood, forcibly took her away in an autorickshaw and allegedly raped her. Later, the girl returned home but could not walk properly. She told her elder sister and mother about the incident. The girl’s parents then lodged a police complaint following which the accused was arrested and booked under IPC section 376 (rape) and relevant provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. After hearing both the sides and taking into account the medical report, the judge said the doctor who examined the girl concluded that there was an attempt to rape the minor. As per the complaint and testimony of the informant, the accused raped the girl, but the medical officer opined that it was a case of attempt to rape, he noted. Considering the girl’s age and the nature of crime, it is difficult to hold that whether she can differentiate between rape and an attempt to rape, the judge said. Thus, in view of the evidence of the girl, who is the only witness to the incident, and the medical reports on record, it is clear the accused outraged her modesty, he said. Hence, the accused committed the offence punishable under IPC section 354 (molestation) and provisions of the POCSO Act, and not under IPC section 376, the judge concluded while pronouncing the punishment on May 9.

Thane: Man gets three-year rigorous imprisonment for molesting physically disabled minor

Massive violence has been reported from West Bengal, where panchayat elections are being held today. ANI reported that a TMC worker named Arif Gazi was shot dead in the Kultali area of South 24 Parganas district.

West Bengal panchayat polls: Massive violence reported from around the state

<p>Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday underwent a successful kidney transplant at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), an official at the premier health institute said.</p>

<p>Both the donor and the recipient are stable and recovering well, the official said.</p>

<p>Jaitley, 65, was admitted to the hospital on Saturday and taken to the operation theatre at 8 am today.</p>

<p>"Union Minister Jaitley underwent a renal transplant today. The surgery has been successful. Both the donor and the recipient are stable and recovering well," a senior AIIMS official said.</p>

<p>The minister, suffering from a kidney ailment, has been undergoing dialysis for the last one month.</p>

<p>According to sources, nephrologist Dr Sandeep Guleria from Apollo Hospital, also the brother of AIIMS Director Randeep Guleria, who is a family friend, was part of the team performing the transplant.</p>

<p>The minister, who cancelled his scheduled visit to London for the 10th India-UK Economic and Financial Dialogue next week, had confirmed his illness in a tweet on April 6.</p>

<p>"I am being treated for kidney-related problems & certain infections that I have contracted," he had tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaitley did not elaborate but said he was "currently working from controlled environment at home".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The future course of my treatment would be determined by the doctors treating me," he had said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In September 2014, Jaitley underwent a bariatric surgery to treat weight gain because of a long-standing diabetic condition. The surgery was first performed at Max Hospital, but he had to be later shifted to AIIMS because of complications.</p>

<p>Jaitley had a heart surgery several years ago.</p>


Jaitley, 65, was admitted to the hospital on Saturday and taken to the operation theatre at 8 am today.

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday underwent a successful kidney transplant at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), an official at the premier health institute said. Both the donor and the recipient are stable and recovering well, the official said. Jaitley, 65, was admitted to the hospital on Saturday and taken to the operation theatre at 8 am today. "Union Minister Jaitley underwent a renal transplant today. The surgery has been successful. Both the donor and the recipient are stable and recovering well," a senior AIIMS official said. The minister, suffering from a kidney ailment, has been undergoing dialysis for the last one month. According to sources, nephrologist Dr Sandeep Guleria from Apollo Hospital, also the brother of AIIMS Director Randeep Guleria, who is a family friend, was part of the team performing the transplant. The minister, who cancelled his scheduled visit to London for the 10th India-UK Economic and Financial Dialogue next week, had confirmed his illness in a tweet on April 6. "I am being treated for kidney-related problems & certain infections that I have contracted," he had tweeted. Jaitley did not elaborate but said he was "currently working from controlled environment at home". "The future course of my treatment would be determined by the doctors treating me," he had said. In September 2014, Jaitley underwent a bariatric surgery to treat weight gain because of a long-standing diabetic condition. The surgery was first performed at Max Hospital, but he had to be later shifted to AIIMS because of complications. Jaitley had a heart surgery several years ago.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley undergoes successful kidney transplant at AIIMS

<p>A Special NIA court here on Monday convicted 18 people in the December 2007 Wagamon SIMI arms training camp case.<br />
The court also acquitted 17 others.</p>

<p>Special Judge Kauser Edappagath found the convicts guilty under Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), Explosives Substances Act and various sections of Indian Penal Code.</p>

<p>The court will pronounce the quantum of punishment tomorrow.</p>

<p>While only two accused were produced today in the court, the others who are lodged in various jails in Ahmedabad, Bhopal and Bengaluru, attended the proceedings via multi-point video conference.</p>

<p>The National Investigation Agency (NIA) which probed the case had charged the accused with involvement in terror activities and being in cahoots with terror groups besides criminal conspiracy and violation of Arms Act among others.</p>

<p>The case was investigated on the basis of complaint that a secret training camp was organised allegedly by Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) at Thangalpara, Wagamon in the state during December, 2007.</p>

<p>It is alleged that in and around November 2007, office bearers and functionaries of SIMI, a banned organization under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act 1967, entered into a criminal conspiracy in Choral, Indore, Madhya Pradesh to conduct training camps for their active cadres.&nbsp</p>

<p>NIA has alleged that they conducted camps at Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat from December 10, 2007 to December 12, 2007.&nbsp</p>

<p>They organised a secret training camp at Thangalpara, Wagamon within the limits of Mundakayam Police Station, Kottayam (Kerala).</p>

<p><br />
The agency alleged that the SIMI cadres were involved in physical training, arms training, firing practices, manufacture of bombs/petrol bombs, motor bike racing and rope climbing practices in the camp.</p>

<p>They also allegedly conducted "jihadi" classes in the camp with an intention to train the cadres to advocate, incite and abet unlawful, terrorist activities, disrupt communal harmony and causing threat to the sovereignty and integrity of the country, thereby waging war against Government of India.&nbsp</p>


The court will pronounce the quantum of punishment tomorrow.

A Special NIA court here on Monday convicted 18 people in the December 2007 Wagamon SIMI arms training camp case. The court also acquitted 17 others. Special Judge Kauser Edappagath found the convicts guilty under Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), Explosives Substances Act and various sections of Indian Penal Code. The court will pronounce the quantum of punishment tomorrow. While only two accused were produced today in the court, the others who are lodged in various jails in Ahmedabad, Bhopal and Bengaluru, attended the proceedings via multi-point video conference. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) which probed the case had charged the accused with involvement in terror activities and being in cahoots with terror groups besides criminal conspiracy and violation of Arms Act among others. The case was investigated on the basis of complaint that a secret training camp was organised allegedly by Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) at Thangalpara, Wagamon in the state during December, 2007. It is alleged that in and around November 2007, office bearers and functionaries of SIMI, a banned organization under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act 1967, entered into a criminal conspiracy in Choral, Indore, Madhya Pradesh to conduct training camps for their active cadres. NIA has alleged that they conducted camps at Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat from December 10, 2007 to December 12, 2007. They organised a secret training camp at Thangalpara, Wagamon within the limits of Mundakayam Police Station, Kottayam (Kerala). The agency alleged that the SIMI cadres were involved in physical training, arms training, firing practices, manufacture of bombs/petrol bombs, motor bike racing and rope climbing practices in the camp. They also allegedly conducted "jihadi" classes in the camp with an intention to train the cadres to advocate, incite and abet unlawful, terrorist activities, disrupt communal harmony and causing threat to the sovereignty and integrity of the country, thereby waging war against Government of India.

NIA court convicts 18 in SIMI training camp case, 17 acquitted

<p>A high alert was sounded in the Jammu region after movement of suspected militants was detected along the International Border (I-B) in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district, a senior police officer said today.</p>

<p>The development comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the state on May 19.</p>

<p>"We have sounded a high alert in the area since 12 am after the detection of suspected movement of a group of people near the I-B in Kathua district," the officer said.&nbsp</p>

<p>Security installations along highways in Kathua, Samba, Jammu districts and security establishments have been put on alert, he said.&nbsp</p>

<p>Movement of suspected militants was detected in Kathua district's Tarnah Allah area, which is close to the I-B, the officer said.&nbsp</p>

<p>Three to four suspected militants are believed to be part of the group that has infiltrated from Pakistan into this side in Tarnah Allah in the Londi-Bobbiyan area, according to reports.</p>

<p>Police and security forces have set up check posts and launched search operations in the area.&nbsp</p>


Movement of suspected militants was detected in Kathua district's Tarnah Allah area, which is close to the I-B, the officer said.

A high alert was sounded in the Jammu region after movement of suspected militants was detected along the International Border (I-B) in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district, a senior police officer said today. The development comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the state on May 19. "We have sounded a high alert in the area since 12 am after the detection of suspected movement of a group of people near the I-B in Kathua district," the officer said. Security installations along highways in Kathua, Samba, Jammu districts and security establishments have been put on alert, he said. Movement of suspected militants was detected in Kathua district's Tarnah Allah area, which is close to the I-B, the officer said. Three to four suspected militants are believed to be part of the group that has infiltrated from Pakistan into this side in Tarnah Allah in the Londi-Bobbiyan area, according to reports. Police and security forces have set up check posts and launched search operations in the area.

Suspected movement along IB, high alert sounded in Jammu

<p>The Supreme Court will hear the plea of three witnesses in the Kathua gangrape and murder case, alleging that they are being harassed by the state police, on May 16. A bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud today agreed to hear on Wednesday the plea of Sahil Sharma and two others, who are college friends of the juvenile accused in the case.</p>

<p>According to their plea, they had already recorded their statements before the police and the magistrate. The three witnesses had in their statement before the magistrate said they gave their statement to the police under coercion. The petition today alleged that the state police was now asking them to re-appear and re-record their statements and exerting pressure in their families.</p>

<p>The apex court had on May 7 transferred the trial in the sensational Kathua gangrape and murder case of an eight-year-old girl from Jammu and Kashmir to Pathankot in Punjab, but refrained from handing over the probe to CBI saying there was no need as the investigation has been conducted and the chargesheet filed.</p>

<p>The victim, from a minority nomadic community, had disappeared from near her home in a village close to Kathua in the Jammu region on January 10. Her body was found in the same area a week later. The state police has filed the main chargesheet against seven persons and a separate chargesheet against a juvenile in a court in Kathua district.</p>


The petition alleged that the state police was now asking them to re-appear and re-record their statements and exerting pressure in their families.

The Supreme Court will hear the plea of three witnesses in the Kathua gangrape and murder case, alleging that they are being harassed by the state police, on May 16. A bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud today agreed to hear on Wednesday the plea of Sahil Sharma and two others, who are college friends of the juvenile accused in the case. According to their plea, they had already recorded their statements before the police and the magistrate. The three witnesses had in their statement before the magistrate said they gave their statement to the police under coercion. The petition today alleged that the state police was now asking them to re-appear and re-record their statements and exerting pressure in their families. The apex court had on May 7 transferred the trial in the sensational Kathua gangrape and murder case of an eight-year-old girl from Jammu and Kashmir to Pathankot in Punjab, but refrained from handing over the probe to CBI saying there was no need as the investigation has been conducted and the chargesheet filed. The victim, from a minority nomadic community, had disappeared from near her home in a village close to Kathua in the Jammu region on January 10. Her body was found in the same area a week later. The state police has filed the main chargesheet against seven persons and a separate chargesheet against a juvenile in a court in Kathua district.

SC to hear Kathua witnesses’ plea alleging police harassment on May 16

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Suspected movement along IB, high alert sounded in Jammu

SC to hear Kathua witnesses’ plea alleging police harassment on May 16