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<p>The Kerala High Court on Friday criticised the Centre and state governments for lack of clarity regarding the disaster relief and rehabilitation fund accounts in connection with the landslides that hit Wayanad in July this year.</p>

<p>A bench of Justices A K Jayasankaran Nambiar and Mohmmed Nias C P directed that the Finance Officer of the State Disaster Management Authority be present in person on Saturday to present the accounts.</p>

<p>The court also posed several queries, including how much funds were required for reconstruction and rehabilitation of the landslides-hit areas of Wayanad and the amount of financial assistance to be provided by the Centre, to which it wanted answers.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-chalo-protest-farmers-halt-march-after-police-use-tear-gas-shells-injuring-many-protesters-782029" target="_blank">'Delhi Chalo' protest: Farmers halt march after police use tear gas shells</a></strong></p>

<p>The queries also included how much amount was there in the relief fund before the disaster, how much was available for use out of it and what portion of the amount allocated by the Centre was utilised.</p>

<p>The bench said once these queries are addressed, it will issue further directions.</p>

<p>The queries from the court came during a hearing of a plea initiated by it for prevention and management of natural disasters in the state in the wake of the landslides that devastated three villages in Wayanad district and claimed over 200 lives.</p>

<p>Two weeks ago, the Centre had told the court that a high-level committee had approved an assistance of around Rs 153 crore from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) towards the Wayanad landslide disaster-related relief efforts.</p>

<p>It had also informed the HC that the Kerala government provided its requirement for Rs 2,219 crore towards recovery and reconstruction only on November 13 and that it was under consideration.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Pakistan | Imran Khan's Ultimatum To Govt: Release Political Prisoners Or Face Protests</strong></p>

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<p>Days after the Centre filed the affidavit in the court, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan termed it as "misleading".</p>

<p>He said the amount of Rs 153 crore mentioned by the Centre was part of the funds allocated each year to a state as per the recommendations of the Finance Commission and can only be spent in accordance with the specific guidelines laid down for the same.</p>

<p>"Therefore, it cannot be spent for the rehabilitation of the disaster-affected people and places in Wayanad. This means not a penny has been given as assistance to the state as help," he had claimed.</p>

<p>Both the CPI(M)-led LDF and Congress-led UDF have held hartals in Wayanad protesting against the alleged lack of financial assistance from the Centre for rehabilitation work.</p>

<p>The High Court had termed the protest as "irresponsible" and wondered what they sought to achieve "other than mount more misery" on people.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


The Kerala High Court on Friday criticised the Centre and state governments for lack of clarity regarding the disaster relief and rehabilitation fund accounts in connection with the landslides that hit Wayanad in July this year.

The Kerala High Court on Friday criticised the Centre and state governments for lack of clarity regarding the disaster relief and rehabilitation fund accounts in connection with the landslides that hit Wayanad in July this year. A bench of Justices A K Jayasankaran Nambiar and Mohmmed Nias C P directed that the Finance Officer of the State Disaster Management Authority be present in person on Saturday to present the accounts. The court also posed several queries, including how much funds were required for reconstruction and rehabilitation of the landslides-hit areas of Wayanad and the amount of financial assistance to be provided by the Centre, to which it wanted answers. Also read: 'Delhi Chalo' protest: Farmers halt march after police use tear gas shells The queries also included how much amount was there in the relief fund before the disaster, how much was available for use out of it and what portion of the amount allocated by the Centre was utilised. The bench said once these queries are addressed, it will issue further directions. The queries from the court came during a hearing of a plea initiated by it for prevention and management of natural disasters in the state in the wake of the landslides that devastated three villages in Wayanad district and claimed over 200 lives. Two weeks ago, the Centre had told the court that a high-level committee had approved an assistance of around Rs 153 crore from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) towards the Wayanad landslide disaster-related relief efforts. It had also informed the HC that the Kerala government provided its requirement for Rs 2,219 crore towards recovery and reconstruction only on November 13 and that it was under consideration. Watch: Pakistan | Imran Khan's Ultimatum To Govt: Release Political Prisoners Or Face Protests Days after the Centre filed the affidavit in the court, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan termed it as "misleading". He said the amount of Rs 153 crore mentioned by the Centre was part of the funds allocated each year to a state as per the recommendations of the Finance Commission and can only be spent in accordance with the specific guidelines laid down for the same. "Therefore, it cannot be spent for the rehabilitation of the disaster-affected people and places in Wayanad. This means not a penny has been given as assistance to the state as help," he had claimed. Both the CPI(M)-led LDF and Congress-led UDF have held hartals in Wayanad protesting against the alleged lack of financial assistance from the Centre for rehabilitation work. The High Court had termed the protest as "irresponsible" and wondered what they sought to achieve "other than mount more misery" on people. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Wayanad landslides: Kerala High Court raps Centre, state govt over lack of clarity in relief fund accounts

<p>Farmers from the northern Indian state of Punjab have suspended the 'Delhi Chalo' march for today (Dec 6) as police started using tear gas shells to prevent&nbsp;them from crossing the border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Farmers in the day, vowed to march from the Shambhu border to the Parliament in Delhi on Friday (Dec 6).&nbsp;</p>

<p>As police fired tear gas shells, at least six farmers got injured, including BKU Krantikari chairman Surjit Singh Phool. Following this, farmer leader Sarwan Pandher has called for talks with Haryana police at the Shambhu border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The farmers are pressing the Indian government to address their demands, including higher compensation and residential plots for their acquired land.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-ncr-bracing-for-traffic-chaos-as-punjab-farmers-vow-to-continue-march-781879"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Delhi-NCR bracing for traffic chaos as Punjab farmers vow to continue march today</strong></a></p>

<p>The group of farmers are from Punjab under the banner of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As they continue to demonstrate at the Shambhu border, security has beefed up and Section 163 of the BNS has been imposed in Haryana's Ambala district, which prohibits the unlawful assembly of groups of four or more people.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Police use tear gas to disperse protesting farmers at the Haryana-Punjab Shambhu Border.<br />
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The farmers have announced to march towards the National Capital-Delhi over their various demands. <a href="https://t.co/TQyigtUF6K">pic.twitter.com/TQyigtUF6K</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1864967534296076387?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The group managed to cross the initial barricades easily but was unable to move further.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Further, farmers were also seen removing barbed wires and barricades put up by the police at the border, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Delhi Farmers Protest Explained: Why Are Farmers Protesting and What Are Their Demands?</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, some of the farmers said that the police used pepper spray on them to stop them from heading towards Delhi.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | Farmers remove barbed wires and barricades put up by the police at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shambhu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Shambhu</a> border.<br />
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The protesting farmers are marching to force the Centre for a legal guarantee for minimum support price for crops.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FarmersProtest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FarmersProtest</a><br />
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(Full video available on PTI Videos -… <a href="https://t.co/Vi8h2rK94U">pic.twitter.com/Vi8h2rK94U</a></p>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1864954577810022488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>'Farmers' demand is justified'</strong></h2>

<p>Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad reacted to the current situation in the country, stressing, "Farmers' demand is justified because farmers are the soul of the country."</p>

<p>"Our country is farmers' country and till they become prosperous, our country won't become prosperous," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Govt turned back on its word'</strong></h2>

<p>Congress MP Rajeev Shukla said the government had promised a legal guarantee of MSP to the farmers but in Punjab, the situation like paddy procurement is not even being done.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The government has turned back on its word. Even the vice president has expressed his concern about this issue. This government doesn't do what it says, so the farmers are agitated," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Farmers from the northern Indian state of Punjab have suspended the 'Delhi Chalo' march for today (Dec 6) as police started using tear gas shells to prevent them from crossing the border.

Farmers from the northern Indian state of Punjab have suspended the 'Delhi Chalo' march for today (Dec 6) as police started using tear gas shells to prevent them from crossing the border. Farmers in the day, vowed to march from the Shambhu border to the Parliament in Delhi on Friday (Dec 6). As police fired tear gas shells, at least six farmers got injured, including BKU Krantikari chairman Surjit Singh Phool. Following this, farmer leader Sarwan Pandher has called for talks with Haryana police at the Shambhu border. The farmers are pressing the Indian government to address their demands, including higher compensation and residential plots for their acquired land. Also read: Delhi-NCR bracing for traffic chaos as Punjab farmers vow to continue march today The group of farmers are from Punjab under the banner of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. As they continue to demonstrate at the Shambhu border, security has beefed up and Section 163 of the BNS has been imposed in Haryana's Ambala district, which prohibits the unlawful assembly of groups of four or more people. #WATCH | Police use tear gas to disperse protesting farmers at the Haryana-Punjab Shambhu Border. The farmers have announced to march towards the National Capital-Delhi over their various demands. pic.twitter.com/TQyigtUF6K — ANI (@ANI) December 6, 2024 × The group managed to cross the initial barricades easily but was unable to move further. Further, farmers were also seen removing barbed wires and barricades put up by the police at the border, news agency PTI reported. Watch | Delhi Farmers Protest Explained: Why Are Farmers Protesting and What Are Their Demands? × Meanwhile, some of the farmers said that the police used pepper spray on them to stop them from heading towards Delhi. VIDEO | Farmers remove barbed wires and barricades put up by the police at #Shambhu border. The protesting farmers are marching to force the Centre for a legal guarantee for minimum support price for crops.#FarmersProtest (Full video available on PTI Videos -… pic.twitter.com/Vi8h2rK94U — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 6, 2024 × 'Farmers' demand is justified' Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad reacted to the current situation in the country, stressing, "Farmers' demand is justified because farmers are the soul of the country." "Our country is farmers' country and till they become prosperous, our country won't become prosperous," he added. 'Govt turned back on its word' Congress MP Rajeev Shukla said the government had promised a legal guarantee of MSP to the farmers but in Punjab, the situation like paddy procurement is not even being done. "The government has turned back on its word. Even the vice president has expressed his concern about this issue. This government doesn't do what it says, so the farmers are agitated," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Delhi Chalo' protest: Farmers halt march after police use tear gas shells, injuring many protesters

<p>A severe Cold wave has hit the region of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh bringing the temperatures across the division to below freezing point. Srinagar city recorded the season's coldest night with minimum settling at minus 4.1 degrees Celsius.</p>

<p>South Kashmir remains one of the coldest areas in the Kashmir division. The Larnoo area in the region recorded the lowest temperature in Kashmir Valley at minus 7 degrees. The tourist resort Pahalgam observed a&nbsp;minimum temperature of minus 6.5 degrees while the Shopian district saw the temperature settle at&nbsp;6.6 degrees Celsius. The World-Famous Ski resort in North Kashmir's Baramulla district recorded a minimum temperature of minus 6 degrees.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The tourist resort Sonamarg also recorded the season's minimum at minus 6.2 degrees. Pulwama saw&nbsp; the minimum temperature settle at&nbsp;minus 6.3 degrees. Bandipora was at minus 4.6, while&nbsp;Baramulla recorded&nbsp;a minimum of minus 3.3 degrees.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;AI Weather Forecaster Beats World-Class System</strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The temperature recorded at Nyoma Village in Ladakh dropped to below minus 16.7 degrees. While the Dras area recorded the temperature at minus 14.8 degrees, the Leh town recorded the season's lowest at minus 10.4 degrees. The Zojila which connects Ladakh region to Jammu and Kashmir recorded the minimum temperature at minus 18 degrees.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has attributed the weather condition in the region to the&nbsp;La Nina effect which means cooler than average sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Pacific. This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns leading to more rains and snow. The MeT department has predicted the winter period to&nbsp;prolong and&nbsp;be very harsh in terms of temperature as well as rain&nbsp;and snow. As we head towards the 'Chillai Kalan, which is the coldest period of 40 days starting December 21, the La Nina effect will multiply the impact of cold and precipitation in the Valley.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Met Department has predicted generally dry weather from December 6 to December 7. There are chances of snow from December 8 to December 9. There will be some respite from the cold wave conditions December 15&nbsp;onwards as rain&nbsp;and snow are predicted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A severe Cold wave has hit the region of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh bringing the temperatures across the division to below freezing point. Srinagar city recorded the season's coldest night with minimum settling at minus 4.

A severe Cold wave has hit the region of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh bringing the temperatures across the division to below freezing point. Srinagar city recorded the season's coldest night with minimum settling at minus 4.1 degrees Celsius. South Kashmir remains one of the coldest areas in the Kashmir division. The Larnoo area in the region recorded the lowest temperature in Kashmir Valley at minus 7 degrees. The tourist resort Pahalgam observed a minimum temperature of minus 6.5 degrees while the Shopian district saw the temperature settle at 6.6 degrees Celsius. The World-Famous Ski resort in North Kashmir's Baramulla district recorded a minimum temperature of minus 6 degrees. The tourist resort Sonamarg also recorded the season's minimum at minus 6.2 degrees. Pulwama saw the minimum temperature settle at minus 6.3 degrees. Bandipora was at minus 4.6, while Baramulla recorded a minimum of minus 3.3 degrees. Watch | AI Weather Forecaster Beats World-Class System × The temperature recorded at Nyoma Village in Ladakh dropped to below minus 16.7 degrees. While the Dras area recorded the temperature at minus 14.8 degrees, the Leh town recorded the season's lowest at minus 10.4 degrees. The Zojila which connects Ladakh region to Jammu and Kashmir recorded the minimum temperature at minus 18 degrees. The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has attributed the weather condition in the region to the La Nina effect which means cooler than average sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Pacific. This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns leading to more rains and snow. The MeT department has predicted the winter period to prolong and be very harsh in terms of temperature as well as rain and snow. As we head towards the 'Chillai Kalan, which is the coldest period of 40 days starting December 21, the La Nina effect will multiply the impact of cold and precipitation in the Valley. The Met Department has predicted generally dry weather from December 6 to December 7. There are chances of snow from December 8 to December 9. There will be some respite from the cold wave conditions December 15 onwards as rain and snow are predicted.

Cold wave conditions grip J&K, Ladakh. Srinagar observes freezing temperature of minus 4.1

<p>A routine check led to the discovery of a bundle of currency notes from a Congress MP's seat, Rajya Sabha chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar claimed on Friday. He said in the House that Parliament security officials recovered the cash from the seat allotted to Abhishek Manu Singhvi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhankhar has ordered a probe into the matter.</p>

<p>Dhankhar said, "I hereby inform the members that during the routine anti-sabotage check of the chamber after the adjournment of the House yesterday. Apparently, a wad of currency notes was recovered by the security officials from seat number 222 which is presently allotted to Abhishek Manu Singhvi, elected from the state of Telangana."</p>

<p>"The matter was brought to my notice, and I made sure an investigation takes place and the same is underway."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Congress MPs broke into protests as Dhankhar made the revelation on the floor of the House. Mallikarjun Kharge said that the person should not be named before an investigation.</p>

<p>"You said that this matter is under investigation. Until it is authenticated, his name should not be mentioned," Kharge said.</p>

<p>Singhvi, meanwhile, denied the charges. "I just carry a Rs 500 note when I go to the Rajya Sabha. I heard about this for the first time. I reached the House at 12.57 pm and the House rose at 1 pm. Then, I sat in the canteen till 1.30 pm and left Parliament."</p>

<p>"It means that each of us must have a seat where the seat itself can be locked, and the key can be carried home by the MP because everybody can then do things on the seat and make allegations like this," he added.</p>

<p>BJP leaders have called for a proper probe into the matter.</p>

<p>Union Minister Kiren Rijiju said that "there was nothing wrong with pointing out the seat number and the name of the MP".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What is wrong with that? Carrying a bundle of notes in Parliament is appropriate? There should be a proper investigation," he said.</p>

<p>BJP chief and Union Health Minister JP Nadda called the discovery of notes "an attack on the dignity of the House" and also called for a probe.</p>


A routine check led to the discovery of a bundle of currency notes from a Congress MP's seat, Rajya Sabha chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar claimed on Friday. He said in the House that Parliament security officials recovered the cash from the seat allotted to Abhishek Manu Singhvi.

A routine check led to the discovery of a bundle of currency notes from a Congress MP's seat, Rajya Sabha chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar claimed on Friday. He said in the House that Parliament security officials recovered the cash from the seat allotted to Abhishek Manu Singhvi. Dhankhar has ordered a probe into the matter. Dhankhar said, "I hereby inform the members that during the routine anti-sabotage check of the chamber after the adjournment of the House yesterday. Apparently, a wad of currency notes was recovered by the security officials from seat number 222 which is presently allotted to Abhishek Manu Singhvi, elected from the state of Telangana." "The matter was brought to my notice, and I made sure an investigation takes place and the same is underway." Meanwhile, Congress MPs broke into protests as Dhankhar made the revelation on the floor of the House. Mallikarjun Kharge said that the person should not be named before an investigation. "You said that this matter is under investigation. Until it is authenticated, his name should not be mentioned," Kharge said. Singhvi, meanwhile, denied the charges. "I just carry a Rs 500 note when I go to the Rajya Sabha. I heard about this for the first time. I reached the House at 12.57 pm and the House rose at 1 pm. Then, I sat in the canteen till 1.30 pm and left Parliament." "It means that each of us must have a seat where the seat itself can be locked, and the key can be carried home by the MP because everybody can then do things on the seat and make allegations like this," he added. BJP leaders have called for a proper probe into the matter. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju said that "there was nothing wrong with pointing out the seat number and the name of the MP". "What is wrong with that? Carrying a bundle of notes in Parliament is appropriate? There should be a proper investigation," he said. BJP chief and Union Health Minister JP Nadda called the discovery of notes "an attack on the dignity of the House" and also called for a probe.

Cash recovered from parliament seat allotted to Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Dhankhar claims

<p>Farmers from the northern Indian state of Punjab have vowed to continue their march to the capital Delhi on Friday (Dec 6) as they press the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address their major demands, especially a legal guarantee for a minimum support price (MSP). The farmers have been camping at the Shambhu border between Punjab and neighbouring Haryana state for over eight months now.</p>

<p>In view of the protests, Haryana police said they had taken special measures to thwart the farmers’ march towards the parliament, with authorities banning gatherings of five or more people in the Ambala district. Mobile internet and sending of bulk messages have also been suspended till December 9. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Haryana state is governed by PM Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party.</p>

<p>Earlier, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher said around 100 protestors would start their march on foot towards Delhi at around 1 pm IST, leaving their tractors and equipment behind.</p>

<p>"We have been sitting here for the past eight months. In response to accusations that our tractors are modified, we have decided to march to Delhi on foot," Pandher said. He claimed that the farmers’ protest had received backing from local businesses as well as members of local panchayats (village councils).</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwje1JCHm5KKAxW7ka8BHep4NTgQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-farmers-protest-delhi-noida-border-witness-massive-traffic-chaos-as-demonstrators-press-for-demands-781119" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-farmers-protest-delhi-noida-border-witness-massive-traffic-chaos-as-demonstrators-press-for-demands-781119&amp;ved=2ahUKEwje1JCHm5KKAxW7ka8BHep4NTgQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Delhi-Noida border witness massive traffic chaos as farmers press for demands</a></strong></p>

<p>The farmers had earlier attempted to march towards Delhi on February 13 and 21 this year but were stopped at the Shambhu border by security forces.</p>

<p>Pandher said the farmers are forced to launch fresh protests as there has been no communication by the central government for the last eight months. "In February, we held four rounds of talks, but since February 18, there have been no further discussions," Pandher alleged.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwje1JCHm5KKAxW7ka8BHep4NTgQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-farmer-rally-delhi-noida-greater-noida-roads-choked-as-protesters-sit-on-crucial-highway-780829" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-farmer-rally-delhi-noida-greater-noida-roads-choked-as-protesters-sit-on-crucial-highway-780829&amp;ved=2ahUKEwje1JCHm5KKAxW7ka8BHep4NTgQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">India farmers` rally: Delhi, Noida, Greater Noida roads choked as protesters sit on crucial highway</a></strong></p>

<p>Additionally, security measures have been implemented in the Delhi-NCR region as well, due to which residents may face traffic jam situations. Earlier this week, residents faced a similar situation when farmers from neighbouring Uttar Pradesh state descended upon the national capital, causing inconvenience to thousands of people.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


Farmers from the northern Indian state of Punjab have vowed to continue their march to the capital Delhi on Friday (Dec 6) as they press the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address their major demands, especially a legal guarantee for a minimum support price (MSP).

Farmers from the northern Indian state of Punjab have vowed to continue their march to the capital Delhi on Friday (Dec 6) as they press the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address their major demands, especially a legal guarantee for a minimum support price (MSP). The farmers have been camping at the Shambhu border between Punjab and neighbouring Haryana state for over eight months now. In view of the protests, Haryana police said they had taken special measures to thwart the farmers’ march towards the parliament, with authorities banning gatherings of five or more people in the Ambala district. Mobile internet and sending of bulk messages have also been suspended till December 9. Haryana state is governed by PM Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party. Earlier, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher said around 100 protestors would start their march on foot towards Delhi at around 1 pm IST, leaving their tractors and equipment behind. "We have been sitting here for the past eight months. In response to accusations that our tractors are modified, we have decided to march to Delhi on foot," Pandher said. He claimed that the farmers’ protest had received backing from local businesses as well as members of local panchayats (village councils). Also read: Delhi-Noida border witness massive traffic chaos as farmers press for demands The farmers had earlier attempted to march towards Delhi on February 13 and 21 this year but were stopped at the Shambhu border by security forces. Pandher said the farmers are forced to launch fresh protests as there has been no communication by the central government for the last eight months. "In February, we held four rounds of talks, but since February 18, there have been no further discussions," Pandher alleged. Also read: India farmers` rally: Delhi, Noida, Greater Noida roads choked as protesters sit on crucial highway Additionally, security measures have been implemented in the Delhi-NCR region as well, due to which residents may face traffic jam situations. Earlier this week, residents faced a similar situation when farmers from neighbouring Uttar Pradesh state descended upon the national capital, causing inconvenience to thousands of people. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi-NCR bracing for traffic chaos as Punjab farmers vow to continue march today

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<p>Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday (Dec. 4) announced a statewide ban on the serving and consumption of beef in restaurants, hotels, and public places. This decision triggered a political row, with the opposition calling the decision an attack on individual freedom.</p>

<p>“We had earlier introduced a bill in Assam to protect cows, and we have been successful. Going further, we have decided that beef will not be served in any hotels or restaurants in the state. It will also not be served during any public function or in any public place,” CM Himanta Biswa Sarma said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjps-devendra-fadnavis-sworn-in-as-chief-minister-of-indian-state-of-maharashtra-781754" target="_blank">Fadnavis takes oath as Maharashtra CM; Eknath Shinde, Ajit Pawar as deputy CMs</a></strong></p>

<p>Initially, restrictions applied only within a five-kilometre radius of temples, but the new decision extends the ban to all areas across the state. While beef consumption remains legal in Assam, The Assam Cattle Preservation Act of 2021 regulates cattle transportation and slaughter, and bans the sale of beef in areas with a majority population of Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs, as well as near temples and Vaishnavite monasteries (Satra).</p>

<p>The decision invited criticism even from within the BJP. Kerala BJP Vice President Major Ravi cautioned against misinterpretation, urging Sarma to clarify what constitutes beef. “Beef is not cow but buffaloes and bulls. If you suddenly ban beef, it will send the wrong message to many people. People should have the freedom to eat what they want,” he said, warning against creating communal tensions.</p>

<p>“First of all, you need to understand what is beef and what is cow, if you suddenly ban beef, this will give a wrong message to so many people…beef is not cow…(Assam) CM should not have said that…if somebody wants to eat, they should…there should be freedom to eat what you want…cow we worship…I haven’t seen any place where cows are being slaughtered. Beef is buffaloes and bulls. We shouldn’t give wrong message to people and create communal issues," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Indian PM Sends Delegation To Vatican To Witness Ordination Of Kerala Priest As Cardinal</strong></p>

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<p>Opposition leaders also strongly opposed the move. Samajwadi Party MP Iqra Hasan said, "This is against the right to freedom and if the government will continue interfering in personal lives then the nation will head towards dictatorship…It is the beauty of the country that we have people following different cultures, religions. These kinds of decisions are against the Constitution."</p>

<p>Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi linked the announcement to political motives, accusing Sarma of attempting to divert attention from BJP's defeat in the Jharkhand elections.</p>

<p>“In Jharkhand, BJP suffered a shameful defeat under the leadership of Himanta Biswa Sarma…he is trying to hide his defeat and shameful loss, he has come up with this conspiracy. I believe that the way Jharkhand people defeated the politics of hatred and infiltrators, the same way in the coming election, people of Assam will punish the corrupt government of Himanta Biswa Sarma," Gogoi said.</p>

<p>Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut questioned the inconsistency of such policies. “If Assam has imposed this ban, why not BJP-ruled states like Goa, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, or Manipur? Why single out Assam?” he asked.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday (Dec. 4) announced a statewide ban on the serving and consumption of beef in restaurants, hotels, and public places.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday (Dec. 4) announced a statewide ban on the serving and consumption of beef in restaurants, hotels, and public places. This decision triggered a political row, with the opposition calling the decision an attack on individual freedom. “We had earlier introduced a bill in Assam to protect cows, and we have been successful. Going further, we have decided that beef will not be served in any hotels or restaurants in the state. It will also not be served during any public function or in any public place,” CM Himanta Biswa Sarma said. Also read: Fadnavis takes oath as Maharashtra CM; Eknath Shinde, Ajit Pawar as deputy CMs Initially, restrictions applied only within a five-kilometre radius of temples, but the new decision extends the ban to all areas across the state. While beef consumption remains legal in Assam, The Assam Cattle Preservation Act of 2021 regulates cattle transportation and slaughter, and bans the sale of beef in areas with a majority population of Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs, as well as near temples and Vaishnavite monasteries (Satra). The decision invited criticism even from within the BJP. Kerala BJP Vice President Major Ravi cautioned against misinterpretation, urging Sarma to clarify what constitutes beef. “Beef is not cow but buffaloes and bulls. If you suddenly ban beef, it will send the wrong message to many people. People should have the freedom to eat what they want,” he said, warning against creating communal tensions. “First of all, you need to understand what is beef and what is cow, if you suddenly ban beef, this will give a wrong message to so many people…beef is not cow…(Assam) CM should not have said that…if somebody wants to eat, they should…there should be freedom to eat what you want…cow we worship…I haven’t seen any place where cows are being slaughtered. Beef is buffaloes and bulls. We shouldn’t give wrong message to people and create communal issues," he said. Watch: Indian PM Sends Delegation To Vatican To Witness Ordination Of Kerala Priest As Cardinal × Opposition leaders also strongly opposed the move. Samajwadi Party MP Iqra Hasan said, "This is against the right to freedom and if the government will continue interfering in personal lives then the nation will head towards dictatorship…It is the beauty of the country that we have people following different cultures, religions. These kinds of decisions are against the Constitution." Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi linked the announcement to political motives, accusing Sarma of attempting to divert attention from BJP's defeat in the Jharkhand elections. “In Jharkhand, BJP suffered a shameful defeat under the leadership of Himanta Biswa Sarma…he is trying to hide his defeat and shameful loss, he has come up with this conspiracy. I believe that the way Jharkhand people defeated the politics of hatred and infiltrators, the same way in the coming election, people of Assam will punish the corrupt government of Himanta Biswa Sarma," Gogoi said. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut questioned the inconsistency of such policies. “If Assam has imposed this ban, why not BJP-ruled states like Goa, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, or Manipur? Why single out Assam?” he asked. (With inputs from agencies)

Assam beef ban triggers political outrage; opposition labels it ‘dictatorship’

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<p>Indian and Chinese officials&nbsp;held a meeting in New Delhi on Thursday (Dec 5) to assess the situation along the shared border. Both sides "positively affirmed" the progress made in implementing disengagement measures along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), according to India's&nbsp;Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).</p>

<p>The meeting, part of the 32nd session of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and&nbsp;Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC), was led by Gourangalal Das, Joint Secretary (East Asia) for India, and Hong Liang, Director General of the Boundary and&nbsp;Oceanic Affairs Department of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-space-agency-isro-launches-proba-3-mission-satellites-781717" target="_blank">India's space agency ISRO launches Proba-3 mission satellites</a></strong></p>

<p>In a statement, the MEA said, "The two sides positively affirmed the implementation of the most recent disengagement agreement which completed the resolution of the issues that emerged in 2020."</p>

<p>“Both sides reviewed the situation in border areas and reflected on the lessons learnt from the events of 2020 in order to prevent their recurrence. In this context, they highlighted the importance of regular exchanges and contacts at diplomatic and military level through established mechanisms,” it added.</p>

<p>“They agreed on the need for effective border management and maintenance of peace &amp; tranquillity in accordance with relevant bilateral agreements, protocols and understandings reached between the two Governments. The leader of the Chinese delegation also called on the Foreign Secretary during the visit,” India’s foreign ministry said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Bangladesh Objects To UK MPs Raising Concern About 'Ethnic Cleansing Of Hindus'</strong></p>

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<p>The next meeting between the two nations' special representatives will be scheduled based on decisions made during the Kazan meeting on October 3, 2024.</p>

<p>The meeting follows the recent agreement reached on&nbsp;October, 21 under which both nations began disengaging their armies and dismantling temporary structures they set up in Eastern Ladakh’s Depsang and Demchok areas after the Galwan clash in 2020. Personnel have been pulled back to their pre-2020 positions, marking significant progress in India-China ties.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian and Chinese officials held a meeting in New Delhi on Thursday (Dec 5) to assess the situation along the shared border. Both sides "positively affirmed" the progress made in implementing disengagement measures along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), according to India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Indian and Chinese officials held a meeting in New Delhi on Thursday (Dec 5) to assess the situation along the shared border. Both sides "positively affirmed" the progress made in implementing disengagement measures along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), according to India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The meeting, part of the 32nd session of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC), was led by Gourangalal Das, Joint Secretary (East Asia) for India, and Hong Liang, Director General of the Boundary and Oceanic Affairs Department of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Also read: India's space agency ISRO launches Proba-3 mission satellites In a statement, the MEA said, "The two sides positively affirmed the implementation of the most recent disengagement agreement which completed the resolution of the issues that emerged in 2020." “Both sides reviewed the situation in border areas and reflected on the lessons learnt from the events of 2020 in order to prevent their recurrence. In this context, they highlighted the importance of regular exchanges and contacts at diplomatic and military level through established mechanisms,” it added. “They agreed on the need for effective border management and maintenance of peace & tranquillity in accordance with relevant bilateral agreements, protocols and understandings reached between the two Governments. The leader of the Chinese delegation also called on the Foreign Secretary during the visit,” India’s foreign ministry said. Watch: Bangladesh Objects To UK MPs Raising Concern About 'Ethnic Cleansing Of Hindus' The next meeting between the two nations' special representatives will be scheduled based on decisions made during the Kazan meeting on October 3, 2024. The meeting follows the recent agreement reached on October, 21 under which both nations began disengaging their armies and dismantling temporary structures they set up in Eastern Ladakh’s Depsang and Demchok areas after the Galwan clash in 2020. Personnel have been pulled back to their pre-2020 positions, marking significant progress in India-China ties. (With inputs from agencies)

India, China hold diplomatic talks, 'positively affirm' progress on disengagement agreement

<p>India's&nbsp;External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday (Dec 5) reaffirmed New Delhi's&nbsp;support for a two-state solution and reiterated that Israel stood by India during security threats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the Question Hour in the Rajya Sabha (upper house of the Indian Parliament), EAM Jaishankar addressed the Israel-Hamas war and said that India and Israel have a strong record of cooperation in the area of national security.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar said that India's decision to continue defence cooperation with Israel relies on national security interests.</p>

<p>"As far as Israel is concerned, it is a country with which we have a strong record of cooperation in national security. It is also a country that has stood by us at different moments when our national security was under threat. When we take any decision, we will bear in mind the larger circumstances but we will be guided by our national security interests," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-unequivocally-condemns-terrorism-in-regular-touch-with-israel-says-jaishankar-at-rome-conference-779133"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;'India unequivocally condemns terrorism, in regular touch with Israel, Iran': Jaishankar at Rome conference</strong></a></p>

<p>"We condemn terrorism, we condemn hostage-taking. We do believe countries have the right to respond to the situation but countries should be mindful of civilian casualties. They must observe humanitarian law and we would like a ceasefire and an early end of violence," Jaishankar said while responding to a supplementary regarding India's position on the ongoing Israel-Hamas&nbsp;war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Further while reiterating India's support for a two-state solution, he said that issues of terrorism and hostage-taking cannot be underplayed or ignored.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“India’s policy towards Palestine has been long-standing and we have always supported a negotiated two-State solution, towards the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine within secure and recognised borders, living side by side in peace with Israel," the Indian foreign minister&nbsp;said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;West Asia crisis: EAM Jaishankar holds talks with Iran &amp; Israel</strong></p>

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<p>Responding to a question about India's abstention from some resolutions in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)&nbsp;in October last year, Jaishankar said there were many resolutions in the assembly, adding that in some, India abstained and in some, it voted in favour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas conflict, 13 resolutions concerning Palestine were brought in UNGA out of which India voted in favour of 10 resolutions and abstained from three resolutions," Jaishankar said.</p>

<p>"In this particular case, we felt that the resolution was not well-drafted and not well-considered. We had reservations about the language. Our concern was not accommodated. That is why we abstained," he said.</p>

<p>“A country like India, which is itself a victim of terrorism, if we countenance the fact that terrorism is underplayed and ignored, it is not in our interests that we do so. We look at any resolution, we look at the wording and take a mature view," the EAM&nbsp;added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday (Dec 5) reaffirmed New Delhi's support for a two-state solution and reiterated that Israel stood by India during security threats.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday (Dec 5) reaffirmed New Delhi's support for a two-state solution and reiterated that Israel stood by India during security threats. During the Question Hour in the Rajya Sabha (upper house of the Indian Parliament), EAM Jaishankar addressed the Israel-Hamas war and said that India and Israel have a strong record of cooperation in the area of national security. Jaishankar said that India's decision to continue defence cooperation with Israel relies on national security interests. "As far as Israel is concerned, it is a country with which we have a strong record of cooperation in national security. It is also a country that has stood by us at different moments when our national security was under threat. When we take any decision, we will bear in mind the larger circumstances but we will be guided by our national security interests," he said. Also read: 'India unequivocally condemns terrorism, in regular touch with Israel, Iran': Jaishankar at Rome conference "We condemn terrorism, we condemn hostage-taking. We do believe countries have the right to respond to the situation but countries should be mindful of civilian casualties. They must observe humanitarian law and we would like a ceasefire and an early end of violence," Jaishankar said while responding to a supplementary regarding India's position on the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Further while reiterating India's support for a two-state solution, he said that issues of terrorism and hostage-taking cannot be underplayed or ignored. “India’s policy towards Palestine has been long-standing and we have always supported a negotiated two-State solution, towards the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine within secure and recognised borders, living side by side in peace with Israel," the Indian foreign minister said. Watch | West Asia crisis: EAM Jaishankar holds talks with Iran & Israel × Responding to a question about India's abstention from some resolutions in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in October last year, Jaishankar said there were many resolutions in the assembly, adding that in some, India abstained and in some, it voted in favour. "Since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas conflict, 13 resolutions concerning Palestine were brought in UNGA out of which India voted in favour of 10 resolutions and abstained from three resolutions," Jaishankar said. "In this particular case, we felt that the resolution was not well-drafted and not well-considered. We had reservations about the language. Our concern was not accommodated. That is why we abstained," he said. “A country like India, which is itself a victim of terrorism, if we countenance the fact that terrorism is underplayed and ignored, it is not in our interests that we do so. We look at any resolution, we look at the wording and take a mature view," the EAM added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Israel stood by India during national security threats,' Jaishankar briefs parliament on Israel-Hamas war

<p>India's space agency – Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) – on Thursday (Dec 5) launched the Proba 3 mission satellites from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR) in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh</p>

<p>The spacecraft is being carried by the PSLV-C59 vehicle into a highly elliptical orbit as a dedicated commercial mission of NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).</p>

<p>In a post on X, ISRO said, "Liftoff Achieved! PSLV-C59 has successfully soared into the skies, marking the commencement of a global mission led by NSIL, with ISRO’s technical expertise, to deploy ESA’s groundbreaking PROBA-3 satellites."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">✅ Mission Success!<br />
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The PSLV-C59/PROBA-3 Mission has successfully achieved its launch objectives, deploying ESA’s satellites into their designated orbit with precision.<br />
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🌌 A testament to the trusted performance of PSLV, the collaboration of NSIL and ISRO, and ESA’s innovative…</p>
— ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1864624104294248477?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The mission launch was scheduled for Wednesday but did not happen&nbsp;due to an anomaly detected in the Proba-3 spacecraft.</p>

<h2><strong>Proba-3: An IOD mission of the ESA</strong></h2>

<p>According to ISRO, the Proba-3 mission&nbsp;is an In-Orbit Demonstration (IOD) mission of the European Space Agency (ESA).</p>

<p>The mission's goal is to demonstrate precise formation flying. "It consists&nbsp;of 2 spacecraft&nbsp;viz. the Coronagraph Spacecraft (CSC) and the Occulter Spacecraft (OSC) and it will be launched together in a stacked configuration," ISRO said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launches PSLV-C59/PROBA-3 mission from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh<br />
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PSLV-C59 vehicle is carrying the Proba-3 spacecraft into a highly elliptical orbit as a Dedicated commercial mission of NewSpace India Limited (NSIL)<br />
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(Source:… <a href="https://t.co/YvuZkH1r7G">pic.twitter.com/YvuZkH1r7G</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1864624331260875064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>A pair of satellites will fly together, maintaining a fixed configuration as if they were a single large rigid structure in space, to prove innovative formation flying and rendezvous technologies.</p>

<p>The ESA said that the mission would demonstrate&nbsp;formation flying in the context of a large-scale science experiment.</p>

<h2><strong>What will Proba-3 study?</strong></h2>

<p>The two satellites of the mission will together&nbsp;form an approximately 150-metre-long&nbsp;solar coronagraph to study the Sun's faint corona closer to the solar rim.</p>

<p>The satellites will be&nbsp;precisely aligned so that the Occulter spacecraft casts a shadow across the Coronagraph spacecraft, thereby enabling the visibility of the faint solar corona, WION earlier reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If the two are not perfectly aligned, then the bright disc of the Sun will not be hidden from the instrument and the corona will be obscured by its bright light.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>


India's space agency – Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) – on Thursday (Dec 5) launched the Proba 3 mission satellites from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR) in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh The spacecraft is being carried by the PSLV-C59 vehicle into a highly elliptical orbit as a dedicated commercial mission of NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).

India's space agency – Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) – on Thursday (Dec 5) launched the Proba 3 mission satellites from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR) in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh The spacecraft is being carried by the PSLV-C59 vehicle into a highly elliptical orbit as a dedicated commercial mission of NewSpace India Limited (NSIL). In a post on X, ISRO said, "Liftoff Achieved! PSLV-C59 has successfully soared into the skies, marking the commencement of a global mission led by NSIL, with ISRO’s technical expertise, to deploy ESA’s groundbreaking PROBA-3 satellites." ✅ Mission Success! The PSLV-C59/PROBA-3 Mission has successfully achieved its launch objectives, deploying ESA’s satellites into their designated orbit with precision. 🌌 A testament to the trusted performance of PSLV, the collaboration of NSIL and ISRO, and ESA’s innovative… — ISRO (@isro) December 5, 2024 × The mission launch was scheduled for Wednesday but did not happen due to an anomaly detected in the Proba-3 spacecraft. Proba-3: An IOD mission of the ESA According to ISRO, the Proba-3 mission is an In-Orbit Demonstration (IOD) mission of the European Space Agency (ESA). The mission's goal is to demonstrate precise formation flying. "It consists of 2 spacecraft viz. the Coronagraph Spacecraft (CSC) and the Occulter Spacecraft (OSC) and it will be launched together in a stacked configuration," ISRO said. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launches PSLV-C59/PROBA-3 mission from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh PSLV-C59 vehicle is carrying the Proba-3 spacecraft into a highly elliptical orbit as a Dedicated commercial mission of NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) (Source:… pic.twitter.com/YvuZkH1r7G — WION (@WIONews) December 5, 2024 × A pair of satellites will fly together, maintaining a fixed configuration as if they were a single large rigid structure in space, to prove innovative formation flying and rendezvous technologies. The ESA said that the mission would demonstrate formation flying in the context of a large-scale science experiment. What will Proba-3 study? The two satellites of the mission will together form an approximately 150-metre-long solar coronagraph to study the Sun's faint corona closer to the solar rim. The satellites will be precisely aligned so that the Occulter spacecraft casts a shadow across the Coronagraph spacecraft, thereby enabling the visibility of the faint solar corona, WION earlier reported. If the two are not perfectly aligned, then the bright disc of the Sun will not be hidden from the instrument and the corona will be obscured by its bright light.

India's space agency ISRO launches Proba-3 mission satellites

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<p>Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Devendra Fadnavis was sworn in as the chief minister of the Indian state of Maharashtra on Thursday (Dec&nbsp;5).&nbsp;Shiv Sena leader Ekanth Shinde and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar also took oaths as the deputy chief ministers.</p>

<p>The swearing-in ceremony was held at the Azad Maidan in Mumbai, and the oaths were administered by Maharashtra Governor CP CP Radhakrishnan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi,&nbsp;Union Ministers Amit Shah, Nirmala Sitharaman, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, and JP Nadda, and several&nbsp;chief ministers and leaders of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) took part in the ceremony.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Mumbai: Devendra Fadnavis takes oath as Chief Minister of Maharashtra<br />
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP national president JP Nadda, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, UP CM Yogi Adityanath and CMs &amp; Deputy CMs of NDA-ruled states, Union… <a href="https://t.co/NrjXGk4BYF">pic.twitter.com/NrjXGk4BYF</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1864642942641819940?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Fadnavis' name as CM was announced after days of&nbsp;speculation and political manoeuvring. He had previously served as the state's CM from 2014-2019.</p>

<p>The swearing-in ceremony was attended by over 42,000 attendees, including high-profile guests like Mukesh Ambani, Kumar Mangalam Birla, Sachin Tendulkar, Shah Rukh Khan, and Madhuri Dixit.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Roles may have changed but...'</strong></h2>

<p>Addressing the media post the swearing-in ceremony, Chief Minister Fadnavis said, ""In the last 2.5 years, we have worked for the development of Maharashtra and from here too we will work for the development of Maharashtra and we will not stop now, the direction and speed is the same, only our roles have changed... We will take decisions for the betterment of Maharashtra."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Mumbai: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis says, "I don't believe that there is any such delay (in forming the goverment). Even before this, in 2004, there was a delay of about 12-13 days. In 2009, there was a delay of about 9 days. We will have to understand that when… <a href="https://t.co/S9w5vmSzcO">pic.twitter.com/S9w5vmSzcO</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1864676432036942253?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar are with me. People want a stable government, so they have chosen us and we will stay and work together. We will continue the 'Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana'....We will soon elect the Maharashtra Assembly Speaker as the Cabinet has decided to hold a special session on December 7-8. Governor will address on 9th December...," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Mahayuti alliance emerges victorious in Maharashtra polls</strong></h2>

<p>The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance achieved a landslide victory in the November 20&nbsp;assembly polls. The BJP won 132 seats out of the total 280, while the Shiv Sena (led by Shinde) won 57 seats and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) led by Ajit Pawar, won 41 seats.</p>

<p>Eknath Shinde headed to his native village of Dare in Satara on November 29&nbsp;amid speculations that he was not happy with the way the new government was shaping up.</p>

<p>However, he said two days later that he comes to Dare regularly&nbsp;and wondered why there should be any confusion (over his visit) when he cleared his stand on the CM’s post last week.</p>

<p>“I always come to my village. Why should there be any confusion when I have already made my stand clear last week? I have already said the decision on CM’s post taken by the BJP leadership will be acceptable to me and Shiv Sena and will have my full backing,” Shinde told reporters.&nbsp;</p>


Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Devendra Fadnavis was sworn in as the chief minister of the Indian state of Maharashtra on Thursday (Dec 5). Shiv Sena leader Ekanth Shinde and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar also took oaths as the deputy chief ministers.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Devendra Fadnavis was sworn in as the chief minister of the Indian state of Maharashtra on Thursday (Dec 5). Shiv Sena leader Ekanth Shinde and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar also took oaths as the deputy chief ministers. The swearing-in ceremony was held at the Azad Maidan in Mumbai, and the oaths were administered by Maharashtra Governor CP CP Radhakrishnan. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Ministers Amit Shah, Nirmala Sitharaman, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, and JP Nadda, and several chief ministers and leaders of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) took part in the ceremony. #WATCH | Mumbai: Devendra Fadnavis takes oath as Chief Minister of Maharashtra Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP national president JP Nadda, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, UP CM Yogi Adityanath and CMs & Deputy CMs of NDA-ruled states, Union… pic.twitter.com/NrjXGk4BYF — ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2024 × Fadnavis' name as CM was announced after days of speculation and political manoeuvring. He had previously served as the state's CM from 2014-2019. The swearing-in ceremony was attended by over 42,000 attendees, including high-profile guests like Mukesh Ambani, Kumar Mangalam Birla, Sachin Tendulkar, Shah Rukh Khan, and Madhuri Dixit. 'Roles may have changed but...' Addressing the media post the swearing-in ceremony, Chief Minister Fadnavis said, ""In the last 2.5 years, we have worked for the development of Maharashtra and from here too we will work for the development of Maharashtra and we will not stop now, the direction and speed is the same, only our roles have changed... We will take decisions for the betterment of Maharashtra." #WATCH | Mumbai: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis says, "I don't believe that there is any such delay (in forming the goverment). Even before this, in 2004, there was a delay of about 12-13 days. In 2009, there was a delay of about 9 days. We will have to understand that when… pic.twitter.com/S9w5vmSzcO — ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2024 × "Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar are with me. People want a stable government, so they have chosen us and we will stay and work together. We will continue the 'Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana'....We will soon elect the Maharashtra Assembly Speaker as the Cabinet has decided to hold a special session on December 7-8. Governor will address on 9th December...," he added. Mahayuti alliance emerges victorious in Maharashtra polls The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance achieved a landslide victory in the November 20 assembly polls. The BJP won 132 seats out of the total 280, while the Shiv Sena (led by Shinde) won 57 seats and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) led by Ajit Pawar, won 41 seats. Eknath Shinde headed to his native village of Dare in Satara on November 29 amid speculations that he was not happy with the way the new government was shaping up. However, he said two days later that he comes to Dare regularly and wondered why there should be any confusion (over his visit) when he cleared his stand on the CM’s post last week. “I always come to my village. Why should there be any confusion when I have already made my stand clear last week? I have already said the decision on CM’s post taken by the BJP leadership will be acceptable to me and Shiv Sena and will have my full backing,” Shinde told reporters.

Devendra Fadnavis takes oath as Maharashtra CM; Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar as deputy CMs

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<p>Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) chief Maulana Masood Azhar, the mastermind behind the 2001 Indian Parliament attack and the 2019 Pulwama attack, has reportedly delivered his first public address in over 20 years, reported ThePrint citing an online digital forum operated by Pakistan-based terrorist organisation. In the speech, Azhar vowed to renew jihadist operations targeting India and Israel to establish a global Islamic order.</p>

<p>JeM has not disclosed the timing or location of the address, as per the report. In the speech, Azhar said, “India, your death is coming.”</p>

<p>“Fearful rulers who do not believe in the word of Allah and jihad have led us to defeat in Kashmir, Palestine, and other Muslim lands,” Azhar said as per report. “They say nothing can change, and America will rule the world,” he added.</p>

<p>“Three hundred and nine years may pass before things change, according to the Quran,” the JeM chief said. “God may will that things change only after a thousand years, and sometimes in minutes,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-former-pm-imran-khan-indicted-in-may-9-ghq-attack-case-781770">Pakistan former PM Imran Khan indicted in May 9 GHQ attack case</a></strong></p>

<p>“I am ashamed that a weakling like (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi challenges us, or a mouse-like (Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu dances on our graves,” he said, as per ThePrint report. “Tell me, are there not even 300 people who can fight to reclaim my Babri Masjid?” he added.</p>

<p>“We will send you all to Kashmir with such powerful guns that all the television anchors will quiver…, and ask where these weapons have come from,” Azhar said.</p>

<p>An Indian intelligence officer familiar with JeM told ThePrint that the address likely happened last month at the 1,000-acre Umm-ul-Qura seminary and mosque complex near Bahawalpur, Pakistan.</p>

<h2><strong>A timeline of Masood Azhar and his JeM activities</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Release of Masood Azhar and foundation of Jaish-e-Muhammad</strong></p>

<p>Masood Azhar was released by India in 1999 as part of a hostage exchange during the IC-814 hijacking. The flight, carrying 154 passengers from Kathmandu to New Delhi, was hijacked by five terrorists, who demanded the release of three high-profile prisoners: Masood Azhar, Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, and Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar. Azhar had been in Indian custody since 1994. Shortly after his release, Azhar founded Jaish-e-Muhammad.</p>

<p><strong>2001 Parliament attack and its aftermath</strong></p>

<p>Soon after JeM was founded, it was linked to two major attacks on India in 2001. In October that year, JeM carried out a suicide bombing at the Jammu and Kashmir legislative assembly in Srinagar, killing over 30 people.</p>

<p>The Indian Parliament was attacked on 13 December 2001 by militants from Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Muhammad, leaving nine dead and 18 injured.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following the Parliament attack, Pakistan banned JeM due to international pressure, and Azhar was taken into custody on 29 December 2001. However, he was released in December 2002 by a Lahore High Court review board, as per the South Asia Terrorism Portal.</p>

<p>Despite being banned by the United Nations and Pakistani authorities, JeM continued operations. Following a 2006 attack in Srinagar, the group faded from media attention, although Azhar continued to deliver sermons to motivate jihadists.</p>

<p><strong>Pathankot attack</strong></p>

<p>On 1 January 2016, four JeM militants armed with Kalashnikov rifles and grenades attacked an airbase in Pathankot, Punjab, near the Pakistani border, killing seven Indian personnel.</p>

<p><strong>Pulwama attack</strong></p>

<p>After the Pathankot attack, JeM claimed responsibility for the 14 February 2019 suicide bombing in Kashmir, which killed at least 46 soldiers. This was the deadliest attack on Indian forces in the region since 1989. Days later, India responded with airstrikes inside Pakistan.</p>

<p>In a speech on 16 February, two days after the Pulwama bombing, Azhar warned that if India did not relinquish control of Kashmir, jihad would engulf the entire country.</p>

<p><strong>After Pulwama</strong></p>

<p>Following the Pulwama attack, Pakistan claimed to have seized Azhar’s compound in Bahawalpur. However, as per media reports JeM has since expanded the facilities in the area.</p>

<p>As per a report in <em>The Diplomat</em>, Pakistan had taken Azhar into custody during investigations into the Pulwama attack. In February 2020, ahead of a plenary meeting of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), a global body monitoring money laundering and terror financing, Pakistan informed the organisation that Azhar and his family had gone missing.</p>

<p>According to an India Today report from 1 September 2021, Azhar congratulated the Taliban on their takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, describing it as a major victory for regional jihadist groups.</p>

<p>In 2022, Pakistan's then-Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto revealed that Azhar had escaped to Afghanistan, just before Pakistani authorities were set to declare him a proclaimed offender.</p>

<p>In early 2022, Pakistan raised concerns with the Taliban about Azhar’s presence in Afghanistan, urging his arrest and extradition, as per the Diplomat report. The Taliban denied these claims, adding that Azhar is a Pakistani national and could not possibly be in Afghanistan.</p>

<p>Although Pakistan still claims that Azhar is in Afghanistan, an India Today exclusive report dated 17 July 2024 reported that Azhar is freely moving around in Pakistan and has even attended several weddings.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) chief Maulana Masood Azhar, the mastermind behind the 2001 Indian Parliament attack and the 2019 Pulwama attack, has reportedly delivered his first public address in over 20 years, reported ThePrint citing an online digital forum operated by Pakistan-based terrorist organisation.

Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) chief Maulana Masood Azhar, the mastermind behind the 2001 Indian Parliament attack and the 2019 Pulwama attack, has reportedly delivered his first public address in over 20 years, reported ThePrint citing an online digital forum operated by Pakistan-based terrorist organisation. In the speech, Azhar vowed to renew jihadist operations targeting India and Israel to establish a global Islamic order. JeM has not disclosed the timing or location of the address, as per the report. In the speech, Azhar said, “India, your death is coming.” “Fearful rulers who do not believe in the word of Allah and jihad have led us to defeat in Kashmir, Palestine, and other Muslim lands,” Azhar said as per report. “They say nothing can change, and America will rule the world,” he added. “Three hundred and nine years may pass before things change, according to the Quran,” the JeM chief said. “God may will that things change only after a thousand years, and sometimes in minutes,” he added. Also read: Pakistan former PM Imran Khan indicted in May 9 GHQ attack case “I am ashamed that a weakling like (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi challenges us, or a mouse-like (Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu dances on our graves,” he said, as per ThePrint report. “Tell me, are there not even 300 people who can fight to reclaim my Babri Masjid?” he added. “We will send you all to Kashmir with such powerful guns that all the television anchors will quiver…, and ask where these weapons have come from,” Azhar said. An Indian intelligence officer familiar with JeM told ThePrint that the address likely happened last month at the 1,000-acre Umm-ul-Qura seminary and mosque complex near Bahawalpur, Pakistan. A timeline of Masood Azhar and his JeM activities Release of Masood Azhar and foundation of Jaish-e-Muhammad Masood Azhar was released by India in 1999 as part of a hostage exchange during the IC-814 hijacking. The flight, carrying 154 passengers from Kathmandu to New Delhi, was hijacked by five terrorists, who demanded the release of three high-profile prisoners: Masood Azhar, Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, and Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar. Azhar had been in Indian custody since 1994. Shortly after his release, Azhar founded Jaish-e-Muhammad. 2001 Parliament attack and its aftermath Soon after JeM was founded, it was linked to two major attacks on India in 2001. In October that year, JeM carried out a suicide bombing at the Jammu and Kashmir legislative assembly in Srinagar, killing over 30 people. The Indian Parliament was attacked on 13 December 2001 by militants from Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Muhammad, leaving nine dead and 18 injured. Following the Parliament attack, Pakistan banned JeM due to international pressure, and Azhar was taken into custody on 29 December 2001. However, he was released in December 2002 by a Lahore High Court review board, as per the South Asia Terrorism Portal. Despite being banned by the United Nations and Pakistani authorities, JeM continued operations. Following a 2006 attack in Srinagar, the group faded from media attention, although Azhar continued to deliver sermons to motivate jihadists. Pathankot attack On 1 January 2016, four JeM militants armed with Kalashnikov rifles and grenades attacked an airbase in Pathankot, Punjab, near the Pakistani border, killing seven Indian personnel. Pulwama attack After the Pathankot attack, JeM claimed responsibility for the 14 February 2019 suicide bombing in Kashmir, which killed at least 46 soldiers. This was the deadliest attack on Indian forces in the region since 1989. Days later, India responded with airstrikes inside Pakistan. In a speech on 16 February, two days after the Pulwama bombing, Azhar warned that if India did not relinquish control of Kashmir, jihad would engulf the entire country. After Pulwama Following the Pulwama attack, Pakistan claimed to have seized Azhar’s compound in Bahawalpur. However, as per media reports JeM has since expanded the facilities in the area. As per a report in The Diplomat, Pakistan had taken Azhar into custody during investigations into the Pulwama attack. In February 2020, ahead of a plenary meeting of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), a global body monitoring money laundering and terror financing, Pakistan informed the organisation that Azhar and his family had gone missing. According to an India Today report from 1 September 2021, Azhar congratulated the Taliban on their takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, describing it as a major victory for regional jihadist groups. In 2022, Pakistan's then-Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto revealed that Azhar had escaped to Afghanistan, just before Pakistani authorities were set to declare him a proclaimed offender. In early 2022, Pakistan raised concerns with the Taliban about Azhar’s presence in Afghanistan, urging his arrest and extradition, as per the Diplomat report. The Taliban denied these claims, adding that Azhar is a Pakistani national and could not possibly be in Afghanistan. Although Pakistan still claims that Azhar is in Afghanistan, an India Today exclusive report dated 17 July 2024 reported that Azhar is freely moving around in Pakistan and has even attended several weddings. (With inputs from agencies)

Pulwama attack mastermind Masood Azhar makes first address in 20 years, vows to renew operations against India

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is sending a high-level Indian delegation to participate in the ordination of Monsignor George Jacob Koovakad as a cardinal by the Pope in a function that will be held in the Vatican City on Saturday (December 7), said former Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar.</p>

<p>Union Minister of State for Fisheries George Kurian will lead the Indian delegation, and it will comprise former Minister of State (MoS) Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Congress MP Kodikunnil Suresh, Rajya Sabha MP Satam Singh Sandhu, BJP leaders Anil Antony, Anoop Antony, and Tom Vadakkan. The delegation will depart for the Vatican on Friday (December 6).</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar says, "It is an extremely proud moment for all the Indians, especially the Christian community. Father George Koovakad who is from Kerala, is becoming a cardinal...He is the first father who is becoming a cardinal directly and the… <a href="https://t.co/BJHd85xO6W">pic.twitter.com/BJHd85xO6W</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1864593366840955329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Taking to X, Chandrashekhar said, "Kerala Priest George Koovakad To Become Cardinal In Vatican: Historic Moment for India."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-for-the-first-time-uses-genocide-for-israels-actions-in-gaza-calls-for-investigation-776996">Pope Francis, for the first time, labels Israel's actions in Gaza as 'genocide'; calls for investigation</a></p>

<p>"Tomorrow morning Prime Minister Narendra Modi is sending a delegation to Vatican City where Father George from Kerala will be ordained on December 7th. This is a proud moment for us countrymen and the Christian community," he said, as reported by news agency IANS.</p>

<h2><strong>All about Monsignor George Jacob Koovakad</strong></h2>

<p>The 51-year-old Koovakad is related to the Syro-Malabar Catholic Archdiocese of Changanacherry, and after getting elevated as a cardinal, he will become the sixth Keralite to hold the post.</p>

<p>The Pope is elected by the Cardinals. On Saturday (December 7), Koovakad will become one of the 21 cardinals who have been elevated to the position from across the world.</p>

<p>Koovakad, who is based in the Vatican currently, has been given the responsibility to organise the international travel schedule of Pope Francis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2006, international travel schedule of Pope Francis joined the Vatican Diplomatic Service after he completed his formation at the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy.</p>

<p>Koovakad, who was born on August 11, 1973, in the state capital city, turned a priest on July 24, 2004.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Pope Francis Expands College Of Cardinals That Will Pick His Successor</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-francis-expands-college-of-cardinals-that-will-pick-his-successor-765242/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>He then joined the prestigious Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy to pursue training for diplomatic service.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2006, Koovakad began his diplomatic career at the Apostolic Nunciature in Algeria.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The man has also worked in Apostolic Nunciatures in South Korea, Iran, Costa Rica, and Venezuela.</p>

<p>In the Indian state of Kerala, three churches—the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, the Latin Church, and the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church—owe their allegiance to the Pope.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is sending a high-level Indian delegation to participate in the ordination of Monsignor George Jacob Koovakad as a cardinal by the Pope in a function that will be held in the Vatican City on Saturday (December 7), said former Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is sending a high-level Indian delegation to participate in the ordination of Monsignor George Jacob Koovakad as a cardinal by the Pope in a function that will be held in the Vatican City on Saturday (December 7), said former Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar. Union Minister of State for Fisheries George Kurian will lead the Indian delegation, and it will comprise former Minister of State (MoS) Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Congress MP Kodikunnil Suresh, Rajya Sabha MP Satam Singh Sandhu, BJP leaders Anil Antony, Anoop Antony, and Tom Vadakkan. The delegation will depart for the Vatican on Friday (December 6). #WATCH | Delhi: BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar says, "It is an extremely proud moment for all the Indians, especially the Christian community. Father George Koovakad who is from Kerala, is becoming a cardinal...He is the first father who is becoming a cardinal directly and the… pic.twitter.com/BJHd85xO6W — ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2024 × Taking to X, Chandrashekhar said, "Kerala Priest George Koovakad To Become Cardinal In Vatican: Historic Moment for India." Also Read: Pope Francis, for the first time, labels Israel's actions in Gaza as 'genocide'; calls for investigation "Tomorrow morning Prime Minister Narendra Modi is sending a delegation to Vatican City where Father George from Kerala will be ordained on December 7th. This is a proud moment for us countrymen and the Christian community," he said, as reported by news agency IANS. All about Monsignor George Jacob Koovakad The 51-year-old Koovakad is related to the Syro-Malabar Catholic Archdiocese of Changanacherry, and after getting elevated as a cardinal, he will become the sixth Keralite to hold the post. The Pope is elected by the Cardinals. On Saturday (December 7), Koovakad will become one of the 21 cardinals who have been elevated to the position from across the world. Koovakad, who is based in the Vatican currently, has been given the responsibility to organise the international travel schedule of Pope Francis. In 2006, international travel schedule of Pope Francis joined the Vatican Diplomatic Service after he completed his formation at the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy. Koovakad, who was born on August 11, 1973, in the state capital city, turned a priest on July 24, 2004. Watch: Pope Francis Expands College Of Cardinals That Will Pick His Successor He then joined the prestigious Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy to pursue training for diplomatic service. In 2006, Koovakad began his diplomatic career at the Apostolic Nunciature in Algeria. The man has also worked in Apostolic Nunciatures in South Korea, Iran, Costa Rica, and Venezuela. In the Indian state of Kerala, three churches—the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, the Latin Church, and the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church—owe their allegiance to the Pope. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi sends delegation to attend ordination of Kerala priest as cardinal in Vatican

<p>Delhi Metro services on the Blue Line are facing disruptions on Thursday (Dec 5) due to a cable theft that happened between the Moti Nagar and Kirti Nagar stations, announced Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). The issues led to long delays for passengers travelling on the metro line in the Indian national capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There is a delay in services on the Blue Line due to a cable theft between Moti Nagar and Kirti Nagar. The inconvenience is regretted,” the DMRC stated in an X post. It also advised passengers to plan their journeys accordingly as delays may lead to additional time.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-triple-murder-police-say-son-killed-family-over-fathers-scolding-and-sibling-rivalry-781514">Delhi triple murder: Police say son killed family over father's scolding and sibling rivalry</a></strong></p>

<p>Delhi Metro said some thieves or miscreants stole the signalling cables, leading to damage to the metro line. Due to this, the trains will be running at a slower speed, leading to delays between the Moti Nagar and Kirti Nagar Metro stations. The trains on the other sections will run normally.</p>

<p>Shortly after the first statement, DMRC said that the repair work would occur during the night hours after the closing of metro services to avoid any inconvenience to people travelling. However, in a recent update, DMRC said that the repair work may start soon.</p>

<p>In the latest update, DMRC informed passengers: “Delhi Metro shall make an attempt to repair the impacted section between Moti Nagar and Kirti Nagar from 12:45 PM onwards. During this period, single line operation will be done between Subhash Nagar and Kirti Nagar.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-farmer-rally-delhi-noida-greater-noida-roads-choked-as-protesters-sit-on-crucial-highway-780829">India farmers' rally: Delhi, Noida, Greater Noida roads choked as protesters sit on crucial highway</a></strong></p>

<p>It&nbsp;added, “However, in case the repair work takes more time and is not completed quickly, the work shall be done in the night hours after the end of passenger services. We shall provide further updates on this repair work.”</p>

<p>The Blue Line metro that runs between Dwarka Sector 21 and Noida Electronic City or Vaishali is one of the busiest metro routes in the national capital, connecting key areas like Rajiv Chowk, Yamuna Bank, Mayur Vihar Phase 1, Noida Sector 18, and Noida Sector 16.</p>

<p>The delay affected many passengers, occurring during morning office hours.</p>

<h2><strong>Arvind Kejriwal criticises Amit Shah over theft</strong></h2>

<p>Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convener Arvind Kejriwal has reacted to the incident, criticising Union Home Minister Amit Shah.<br />
<br />
In an X post, Kejriwal wrote, “Amit Shah ji, what is happening in Delhi. Even the cable of Delhi Metro has been stolen. Nothing is safe. Do something.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Delhi Metro services on the Blue Line are facing disruptions on Thursday (Dec 5) due to a cable theft that happened between the Moti Nagar and Kirti Nagar stations, announced Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC).

Delhi Metro services on the Blue Line are facing disruptions on Thursday (Dec 5) due to a cable theft that happened between the Moti Nagar and Kirti Nagar stations, announced Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). The issues led to long delays for passengers travelling on the metro line in the Indian national capital. “There is a delay in services on the Blue Line due to a cable theft between Moti Nagar and Kirti Nagar. The inconvenience is regretted,” the DMRC stated in an X post. It also advised passengers to plan their journeys accordingly as delays may lead to additional time. Also read | Delhi triple murder: Police say son killed family over father's scolding and sibling rivalry Delhi Metro said some thieves or miscreants stole the signalling cables, leading to damage to the metro line. Due to this, the trains will be running at a slower speed, leading to delays between the Moti Nagar and Kirti Nagar Metro stations. The trains on the other sections will run normally. Shortly after the first statement, DMRC said that the repair work would occur during the night hours after the closing of metro services to avoid any inconvenience to people travelling. However, in a recent update, DMRC said that the repair work may start soon. In the latest update, DMRC informed passengers: “Delhi Metro shall make an attempt to repair the impacted section between Moti Nagar and Kirti Nagar from 12:45 PM onwards. During this period, single line operation will be done between Subhash Nagar and Kirti Nagar.” Also read | India farmers' rally: Delhi, Noida, Greater Noida roads choked as protesters sit on crucial highway It added, “However, in case the repair work takes more time and is not completed quickly, the work shall be done in the night hours after the end of passenger services. We shall provide further updates on this repair work.” The Blue Line metro that runs between Dwarka Sector 21 and Noida Electronic City or Vaishali is one of the busiest metro routes in the national capital, connecting key areas like Rajiv Chowk, Yamuna Bank, Mayur Vihar Phase 1, Noida Sector 18, and Noida Sector 16. The delay affected many passengers, occurring during morning office hours. Arvind Kejriwal criticises Amit Shah over theft Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convener Arvind Kejriwal has reacted to the incident, criticising Union Home Minister Amit Shah. In an X post, Kejriwal wrote, “Amit Shah ji, what is happening in Delhi. Even the cable of Delhi Metro has been stolen. Nothing is safe. Do something.” (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Metro’s Blue Line faces disruptions after cable theft, trains delayed

<p><meta charset="utf-8" />In a major relief for New Delhi, the Supreme Court has eased GRAP-IV (Stage IV) restrictions due to improved air quality. The Court directed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to reduce these measures to GRAP-II (Stage II) but restrained any further relaxation. This development is part of ongoing efforts to control severe pollution levels in Delhi, aggravated by stubble burning, vehicular emissions, and construction activities.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The Court directed the CAQM to consider the adoption of certain precautionary measures as in GRAP-III to be initiated when the Air Quality Index reached 350. When it was 400, the Court made it clear that all severe measures as in GRAP-IV would need to be reimposed.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Delhi has improved significantly from 'very poor' to 'moderate' on its AQI. The AQI was recorded Thursday morning at 161. According to the AQI scale, air quality is qualified as: 'moderate' (101-200), 'poor' (201-300), and 'very poor' (301-400).<br />
<br />
"Considering the data before us, we do not think it will be appropriate at this stage to allow the Commission to go below Stage 2. So we permit the Commission to go to Stage 2 for the present," said Justice Abhay S. Oka, who was part of the bench that heard the case.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Although certain areas recorded poor AQI like RK Puram, Mundka, and Shadipur&nbsp;while central areas like ITO and Anand Vihar had better readings.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The Supreme Court had previously highlighted that the right to live in a pollution-free environment is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">The Court has assigned the CAQM with the task of monitoring the vanishing air and taking necessary action. The CAQM commission continues to closely watch the situation.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


In a major relief for New Delhi, the Supreme Court has eased GRAP-IV (Stage IV) restrictions due to improved air quality. The Court directed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to reduce these measures to GRAP-II (Stage II) but restrained any further relaxation.

In a major relief for New Delhi, the Supreme Court has eased GRAP-IV (Stage IV) restrictions due to improved air quality. The Court directed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to reduce these measures to GRAP-II (Stage II) but restrained any further relaxation. This development is part of ongoing efforts to control severe pollution levels in Delhi, aggravated by stubble burning, vehicular emissions, and construction activities. The Court directed the CAQM to consider the adoption of certain precautionary measures as in GRAP-III to be initiated when the Air Quality Index reached 350. When it was 400, the Court made it clear that all severe measures as in GRAP-IV would need to be reimposed. Delhi has improved significantly from 'very poor' to 'moderate' on its AQI. The AQI was recorded Thursday morning at 161. According to the AQI scale, air quality is qualified as: 'moderate' (101-200), 'poor' (201-300), and 'very poor' (301-400). "Considering the data before us, we do not think it will be appropriate at this stage to allow the Commission to go below Stage 2. So we permit the Commission to go to Stage 2 for the present," said Justice Abhay S. Oka, who was part of the bench that heard the case. Although certain areas recorded poor AQI like RK Puram, Mundka, and Shadipur while central areas like ITO and Anand Vihar had better readings. The Supreme Court had previously highlighted that the right to live in a pollution-free environment is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution. The Court has assigned the CAQM with the task of monitoring the vanishing air and taking necessary action. The CAQM commission continues to closely watch the situation.

Supreme Court lifts GRAP-IV restrictions as Delhi’s AQI drops to 'Moderate'

<p>Kuwait's Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya on Wednesday (Dec 4) hailed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership skills saying that his country views PM Modi as one of the wisest persons globally.</p>

<p>"I would like to thank you for the invitation and also for the opportunity of meeting Prime Minister Modi, who we believe is one of the wisest persons worldwide. I am sure that the Prime Minister puts India on a better level, and I am sure that he will continue that... India is a very important partner and we count on our relationship," the visiting Foreign Minister said in his opening remarks at the delegation-level meeting with External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar in New Delhi on Wednesday evening.</p>

<p>Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya's visit to India is aimed at further boosting the diverse relationship between the two countries.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Glad to receive Foreign Minister of Kuwait H.E. Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya. I thank the Kuwaiti leadership for the welfare of the Indian nationals. India is committed to advance our deep-rooted and historical ties for the benefit of our people and the region. <a href="https://t.co/hR5URxPyt5">pic.twitter.com/hR5URxPyt5</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1864309806439518358?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Upon arriving in New Delhi on Tuesday (Dec 3), he paid a courtesy visit to PM Modi in the afternoon at his official residence which was followed by a meeting with External Affairs Minister Jaishankar at the Hyderabad House.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-bangladesh-must-ensure-legal-representation-to-all-detainees-over-hindu-monks-arrest-781632">US says Bangladesh must ensure legal representation to all detainees over Hindu monk's arrest</a></strong></p>

<p>"Glad to receive Foreign Minister of Kuwait Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya. I thank the Kuwaiti leadership for the welfare of the Indian nationals. India is committed to advance our deep-rooted and historical ties for the benefit of our people and the region," PM Modi said in a post on X after the meeting.</p>

<p>The India-Kuwait ties founded on centuries of trade and cultural exchange date back to Kuwait's independence in the year 1961 when the Indian Rupee served as its legal tender.</p>

<p>"I think the Joint Committee will solve many issues between Kuwait and India. I think we can draw a roadmap between Kuwait and India and proceed as fast as we can," said Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Kuwait's Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya on Wednesday (Dec 4) hailed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership skills saying that his country views PM Modi as one of the wisest persons globally.

Kuwait's Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya on Wednesday (Dec 4) hailed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership skills saying that his country views PM Modi as one of the wisest persons globally. "I would like to thank you for the invitation and also for the opportunity of meeting Prime Minister Modi, who we believe is one of the wisest persons worldwide. I am sure that the Prime Minister puts India on a better level, and I am sure that he will continue that... India is a very important partner and we count on our relationship," the visiting Foreign Minister said in his opening remarks at the delegation-level meeting with External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar in New Delhi on Wednesday evening. Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya's visit to India is aimed at further boosting the diverse relationship between the two countries. Glad to receive Foreign Minister of Kuwait H.E. Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya. I thank the Kuwaiti leadership for the welfare of the Indian nationals. India is committed to advance our deep-rooted and historical ties for the benefit of our people and the region. pic.twitter.com/hR5URxPyt5 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 4, 2024 × Upon arriving in New Delhi on Tuesday (Dec 3), he paid a courtesy visit to PM Modi in the afternoon at his official residence which was followed by a meeting with External Affairs Minister Jaishankar at the Hyderabad House. Also read: US says Bangladesh must ensure legal representation to all detainees over Hindu monk's arrest "Glad to receive Foreign Minister of Kuwait Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya. I thank the Kuwaiti leadership for the welfare of the Indian nationals. India is committed to advance our deep-rooted and historical ties for the benefit of our people and the region," PM Modi said in a post on X after the meeting. The India-Kuwait ties founded on centuries of trade and cultural exchange date back to Kuwait's independence in the year 1961 when the Indian Rupee served as its legal tender. "I think the Joint Committee will solve many issues between Kuwait and India. I think we can draw a roadmap between Kuwait and India and proceed as fast as we can," said Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya. (With inputs from agencies)

Kuwait's Foreign Minister heaps praise on PM Modi, says Indian leader one of the wisest persons in world

<p>Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh continue to reel under severe cold wave conditions as temperatures across the region continue to be recorded below freezing point. The lowest temperature in the region was recorded at Nyoma Village in Ladakh at minus 18.3 degrees. While the Dras area recorded the temperature at minus 14 degrees, Leh town recorded the season's lowest at minus 9.6 degrees. The Zojila, which connects the Ladakh region to Jammu and Kashmir, recorded the minimum temperature at minus 18 degrees.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kashmir Division has also been reeling under the cold wave, with Srinagar recording the minimum temperature at minus 2.1 degrees. South Kashmir remains one of the coldest areas in the Kashmir division. The tourist resort Pahalgam recorded the minimum temperature at minus 5.3 degrees, while the coldest place in the Kashmir region was the Shopian district, where the minimum temperature was minus 5.5 degrees Celsius. Gulmarg, the world-famous ski resort in North Kashmir's Baramulla district, recorded the minimum temperature at minus 3.6 degrees.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-coast-guard-rescues-12-indian-crew-from-arabian-sea-with-help-from-pakistan-agency-781658">Indian Coast Guard rescues 12 Indian crew from Arabian Sea with help from Pakistan agency</a></strong></p>

<p>The tourist resort Sonamarg also recorded the season's minimum at minus 4.9 degrees. Meanwhile, the MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has predicted the La Nina effect, which means cooler than average sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Pacific. This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns, leading to more rain and snow. The MeT department has predicted that the winter period will prolong and will be very harsh in terms of temperature as well as rains and snow. As we head towards the 'Chillai Kalan', which is the coldest period of 40 days starting December 21, the La Nina effect will multiply the impact of cold and precipitation in the valley.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Met Department has predicted generally dry weather from December 5th to December 7th. There are chances of snow from December 8th to December 9th. There will be some respite from the cold wave conditions from December 15th onwards as rains and snow are predicted.&nbsp;</p>


Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh continue to reel under severe cold wave conditions as temperatures across the region continue to be recorded below freezing point. The lowest temperature in the region was recorded at Nyoma Village in Ladakh at minus 18.

Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh continue to reel under severe cold wave conditions as temperatures across the region continue to be recorded below freezing point. The lowest temperature in the region was recorded at Nyoma Village in Ladakh at minus 18.3 degrees. While the Dras area recorded the temperature at minus 14 degrees, Leh town recorded the season's lowest at minus 9.6 degrees. The Zojila, which connects the Ladakh region to Jammu and Kashmir, recorded the minimum temperature at minus 18 degrees. The Kashmir Division has also been reeling under the cold wave, with Srinagar recording the minimum temperature at minus 2.1 degrees. South Kashmir remains one of the coldest areas in the Kashmir division. The tourist resort Pahalgam recorded the minimum temperature at minus 5.3 degrees, while the coldest place in the Kashmir region was the Shopian district, where the minimum temperature was minus 5.5 degrees Celsius. Gulmarg, the world-famous ski resort in North Kashmir's Baramulla district, recorded the minimum temperature at minus 3.6 degrees. Also read: Indian Coast Guard rescues 12 Indian crew from Arabian Sea with help from Pakistan agency The tourist resort Sonamarg also recorded the season's minimum at minus 4.9 degrees. Meanwhile, the MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has predicted the La Nina effect, which means cooler than average sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Pacific. This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns, leading to more rain and snow. The MeT department has predicted that the winter period will prolong and will be very harsh in terms of temperature as well as rains and snow. As we head towards the 'Chillai Kalan', which is the coldest period of 40 days starting December 21, the La Nina effect will multiply the impact of cold and precipitation in the valley. The Met Department has predicted generally dry weather from December 5th to December 7th. There are chances of snow from December 8th to December 9th. There will be some respite from the cold wave conditions from December 15th onwards as rains and snow are predicted.

Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh reel under severe cold wave conditions

<p>Former Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal, after surviving an assassination bid on Wednesday (Dec. 4), arrived at Takhat Sri Kesgarh Sahib in Anandpur Sahib on Thursday (Dec. 5) to perform penance on the third consecutive day.</p>

<p>After the incident, the security has been beefed up at the holy Sikh shrine.</p>

<p>Badal was shot at in an assassination attempt outside the Golden Temple in the north Indian state of Punjab on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The assailant was identified by the police as Narain Singh Chaura.</p>

<p>Badal escaped unhurt, while Chaura was immediately overpowered by people around him at the entrance of the Sikh holy shrine in Amritsar.</p>

<p>Badal, the former Akali Dal president and ex-deputy chief minister of Punjab, is doing penance after being declared as ‘tankhahiya’ or guilty of religious misconduct in August.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Akal Takht, the Supreme Court of Sikhs, announced its verdict against him over religious misconduct. As per the verdict, Badal will have to sit wearing sevadar’s robes in front of various gurudwaras across India's northern state of Punjab wearing a plaque around his neck for two days each.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident took place as Badal was sitting in his wheelchair outside Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) on the second day of his penance.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sukhbir-badals-attacker-linked-with-radical-organizations-has-been-on-intel-radar-781420">Sukhbir Badal attacker Narain Singh Chaura: What we know about ex-Babbar Khalsa terrorist</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>SAD targets Congress and AAP</strong></h2>

<p>Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia slammed the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over the assassination attempt on Badal, stating that the law and order situation in the state of Punjab is going out of control.</p>

<p>Majithia said that despite Chaura's criminal record, why was he not arrested earlier?</p>

<p>"It has come to light that the accused, Narain Singh Chaura, conducted a reconnaissance of Harmandir Sahib on December 3. Why was he not arrested earlier? What kind of police deployment is this? And you are praising the police? What shamelessness is this, Bhagwant Mann?," he said.</p>

<p>He further demanded a high court-monitored probe into the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The situation is out of control. If the police had apprehended the accused two days ago, I would have said things were under control. A high court-monitored probe is needed. If the police knew this man was roaming around, were they waiting for him to shoot?," he questioned.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal, after surviving an assassination bid on Wednesday (Dec. 4), arrived at Takhat Sri Kesgarh Sahib in Anandpur Sahib on Thursday (Dec.

Former Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal, after surviving an assassination bid on Wednesday (Dec. 4), arrived at Takhat Sri Kesgarh Sahib in Anandpur Sahib on Thursday (Dec. 5) to perform penance on the third consecutive day. After the incident, the security has been beefed up at the holy Sikh shrine. Badal was shot at in an assassination attempt outside the Golden Temple in the north Indian state of Punjab on Wednesday. The assailant was identified by the police as Narain Singh Chaura. Badal escaped unhurt, while Chaura was immediately overpowered by people around him at the entrance of the Sikh holy shrine in Amritsar. Badal, the former Akali Dal president and ex-deputy chief minister of Punjab, is doing penance after being declared as ‘tankhahiya’ or guilty of religious misconduct in August. The Akal Takht, the Supreme Court of Sikhs, announced its verdict against him over religious misconduct. As per the verdict, Badal will have to sit wearing sevadar’s robes in front of various gurudwaras across India's northern state of Punjab wearing a plaque around his neck for two days each. The incident took place as Badal was sitting in his wheelchair outside Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) on the second day of his penance. Also read: Sukhbir Badal attacker Narain Singh Chaura: What we know about ex-Babbar Khalsa terrorist SAD targets Congress and AAP Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia slammed the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over the assassination attempt on Badal, stating that the law and order situation in the state of Punjab is going out of control. Majithia said that despite Chaura's criminal record, why was he not arrested earlier? "It has come to light that the accused, Narain Singh Chaura, conducted a reconnaissance of Harmandir Sahib on December 3. Why was he not arrested earlier? What kind of police deployment is this? And you are praising the police? What shamelessness is this, Bhagwant Mann?," he said. He further demanded a high court-monitored probe into the incident. "The situation is out of control. If the police had apprehended the accused two days ago, I would have said things were under control. A high court-monitored probe is needed. If the police knew this man was roaming around, were they waiting for him to shoot?," he questioned. (With inputs from agencies)

Sukhbir Badal arrives at Anandpur Sahib for penance day after assassination attempt

<p>Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Hema Malini, on Wednesday (Dec 4), set off a contentious dialogue in the Lok Sabha fiercely denouncing Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das' arrest.</p>

<p>She also condemned the incidents of violence against the minorities in Bangladesh stating that their safety was under threat in the country.</p>

<p>Raising the matter during the Zero Hour in the Lok Sabha, the actress-turned-politician said, "The safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh is under threat and they are facing atrocities from radicals."</p>

<p>"I myself am a Krishna devotee and a follower of ISKCON. I am a representative of Krishna's holy city Mathura. We will not tolerate atrocities on religion. This is not a matter of foreign policy, but a matter of our sentiment. The Bangladesh government should ensure the safety of Hindus," she added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: On the situation in Bangladesh, BJP MP Hema Malini says, "The situation is bad, I have requested our government to take action and give security to our ISKCON devotees, our Hindu brothers. It is not a matter of foreign policy, it is a matter of our sentiments,… <a href="https://t.co/uMRMUFZ5DO">pic.twitter.com/uMRMUFZ5DO</a></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>US says Bangladesh must ensure legal representation to all detainees over Hindu monk's arrest</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, a US State Department spokesperson in Washington said that Bangladesh must secure "appropriate" legal representation for all detainees, aligning with fundamental human rights principles.</p>

<p>This comes after the bail hearing of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari on Tuesday (Dec 4), was adjourned by a month in a Chittagong court as he did not have counsel.</p>

<p>Principal deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said that his view aligns with the United States' expectations for all governments.</p>

<p>"There needs to be respect for fundamental freedoms, respect for religious freedom and basic human rights," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-summons-indian-envoy-suspends-consular-services-at-mission-in-agartala-781385">Bangladesh summons Indian envoy, suspends consular services at mission in Agartala</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Lawyer defending detained Hindu monk ‘brutally attacked’</strong></h2>

<p>This comes after a lawyer of detained Hindu priest Chinmoy Krishna Das Prabhu was brutally attacked in Bangladesh, a spokesperson for the Hindu spiritual organisation International Society for Krishna Consciousness, known as ISKCON, said Monday (Dec 2).</p>

<p>Bangladesh police detained Chinmoy on November 25 on stringent sedition charges, backed by claims that he disrespected the Bangladeshi flag while demanding safety for Hindus. An FIR was also filed against him and 18 others. He was denied bail on November 26 and sent to prison. The court is now set to hear the case on January 2 next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Hema Malini, on Wednesday (Dec 4), set off a contentious dialogue in the Lok Sabha fiercely denouncing Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das' arrest.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Hema Malini, on Wednesday (Dec 4), set off a contentious dialogue in the Lok Sabha fiercely denouncing Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das' arrest. She also condemned the incidents of violence against the minorities in Bangladesh stating that their safety was under threat in the country. Raising the matter during the Zero Hour in the Lok Sabha, the actress-turned-politician said, "The safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh is under threat and they are facing atrocities from radicals." "I myself am a Krishna devotee and a follower of ISKCON. I am a representative of Krishna's holy city Mathura. We will not tolerate atrocities on religion. This is not a matter of foreign policy, but a matter of our sentiment. The Bangladesh government should ensure the safety of Hindus," she added. #WATCH | Delhi: On the situation in Bangladesh, BJP MP Hema Malini says, "The situation is bad, I have requested our government to take action and give security to our ISKCON devotees, our Hindu brothers. It is not a matter of foreign policy, it is a matter of our sentiments,… pic.twitter.com/uMRMUFZ5DO — ANI (@ANI) December 4, 2024 × US says Bangladesh must ensure legal representation to all detainees over Hindu monk's arrest Meanwhile, a US State Department spokesperson in Washington said that Bangladesh must secure "appropriate" legal representation for all detainees, aligning with fundamental human rights principles. This comes after the bail hearing of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari on Tuesday (Dec 4), was adjourned by a month in a Chittagong court as he did not have counsel. Principal deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said that his view aligns with the United States' expectations for all governments. "There needs to be respect for fundamental freedoms, respect for religious freedom and basic human rights," he said. Also read: Bangladesh summons Indian envoy, suspends consular services at mission in Agartala Lawyer defending detained Hindu monk ‘brutally attacked’ This comes after a lawyer of detained Hindu priest Chinmoy Krishna Das Prabhu was brutally attacked in Bangladesh, a spokesperson for the Hindu spiritual organisation International Society for Krishna Consciousness, known as ISKCON, said Monday (Dec 2). Bangladesh police detained Chinmoy on November 25 on stringent sedition charges, backed by claims that he disrespected the Bangladeshi flag while demanding safety for Hindus. An FIR was also filed against him and 18 others. He was denied bail on November 26 and sent to prison. The court is now set to hear the case on January 2 next year. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP MP Hema Malini condemns Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das' arrest; 'not a matter of foreign policy...'

<p>The Indian Coast Guard said Thursday (Dec 5) in a press release that it had rescued 12 people from a sunken vessel from the North Arabian Sea in a mission that saw close collaboration with Pakistan’s Maritime Security Agency (MSA).</p>

<p>The 12 crew members were aboard the Indian vessel MSV Al Piranpir, which was travelling from Porbandar port in India’s Gujarat to Bandar Abbas port in Iran.</p>

<p>However, on Wednesday, the Indian vessel sank outside Indian waters but within Pakistan’s search and rescue region.</p>

<p>"This humanitarian search and rescue mission saw a close collaboration between the Indian Coast Guard and PMSA, with both nations' maritime rescue coordination centres (MRCC) maintaining continuous communication throughout the operation," the press release said.</p>

<p>The vessel is believed to have faced rough seas and then flooding, due to which it sank in the early hours of Wednesday. The ship made the distress call to the Indian Coast Guard's MRCC, Mumbai, which promptly alerted the ICG regional headquarters (North West) in Gandhinagar.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj0m-muipCKAxWnkq8BHeu0JM4QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-helps-in-maintenance-of-maldives-mauritius-coast-guard-vessels-778799" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-helps-in-maintenance-of-maldives-mauritius-coast-guard-vessels-778799&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj0m-muipCKAxWnkq8BHeu0JM4QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Indian Navy helps in maintenance of Maldives, Mauritius Coast Guard vessels</a></strong></p>

<p>The ICG deployed its Sarthak vessel to carry out the operation and an alert was also sent to MRCC Pakistan. The ICG statement added that Pakistan MSA swiftly provided required assistance.</p>

<p>All crew members had taken shelter in a small dinghy and they were located approximately 270 km west of Dwarka, within Pakistan's search and rescue region. The search operation by the ICG was launched with support from a PMSA aircraft and the merchant ship MV Cosco Glory.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj0m-muipCKAxWnkq8BHeu0JM4QxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-five-week-air-sea-op-indian-coast-guard-recovers-mortal-remains-of-missing-pilot-766554" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-five-week-air-sea-op-indian-coast-guard-recovers-mortal-remains-of-missing-pilot-766554&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj0m-muipCKAxWnkq8BHeu0JM4QxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">After five-week air-sea op, Indian Coast Guard recover mortal remains of missing pilot</a></strong></p>

<p>The rescued people were then examined by doctors aboard Sarthak. ICG statement said all of them were being transported back to Gujarat’s Porbandar harbour.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


The Indian Coast Guard said Thursday (Dec 5) in a press release that it had rescued 12 people from a sunken vessel from the North Arabian Sea in a mission that saw close collaboration with Pakistan’s Maritime Security Agency (MSA).

The Indian Coast Guard said Thursday (Dec 5) in a press release that it had rescued 12 people from a sunken vessel from the North Arabian Sea in a mission that saw close collaboration with Pakistan’s Maritime Security Agency (MSA). The 12 crew members were aboard the Indian vessel MSV Al Piranpir, which was travelling from Porbandar port in India’s Gujarat to Bandar Abbas port in Iran. However, on Wednesday, the Indian vessel sank outside Indian waters but within Pakistan’s search and rescue region. "This humanitarian search and rescue mission saw a close collaboration between the Indian Coast Guard and PMSA, with both nations' maritime rescue coordination centres (MRCC) maintaining continuous communication throughout the operation," the press release said. The vessel is believed to have faced rough seas and then flooding, due to which it sank in the early hours of Wednesday. The ship made the distress call to the Indian Coast Guard's MRCC, Mumbai, which promptly alerted the ICG regional headquarters (North West) in Gandhinagar. Also read: Indian Navy helps in maintenance of Maldives, Mauritius Coast Guard vessels The ICG deployed its Sarthak vessel to carry out the operation and an alert was also sent to MRCC Pakistan. The ICG statement added that Pakistan MSA swiftly provided required assistance. All crew members had taken shelter in a small dinghy and they were located approximately 270 km west of Dwarka, within Pakistan's search and rescue region. The search operation by the ICG was launched with support from a PMSA aircraft and the merchant ship MV Cosco Glory. Also read: After five-week air-sea op, Indian Coast Guard recover mortal remains of missing pilot The rescued people were then examined by doctors aboard Sarthak. ICG statement said all of them were being transported back to Gujarat’s Porbandar harbour. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Coast Guard rescues 12 Indian crew from Arabian Sea with help from Pakistan agency

<p>Mumbai recorded its hottest December day in the last 16 years after the spike in maximum temperature on Wednesday, December 4. The city recorded 37.3 degrees Celsius&nbsp;after light drizzle in the early hours of the day in several areas.</p>

<p>Surprisingly, this comes after Mumbai observed its coldest day in eight years since 2016 last week on Friday, November 29, when the temperature dipped to 16.5 degrees Celsius.</p>

<h2><strong>Aftermath of Cyclone Fengal</strong></h2>

<p>Experts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) have attributed this unusual occurrence of weather in the city to the influx of strong easterlies and moisture, an aftermath of Cyclone Fengal that made landfall in Tamil Nadu on November 30.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fadnavis-to-take-oath-as-maharashtra-cm-today-2000-vvips-to-attend-ceremony-781644">Fadnavis to take oath as Maharashtra CM today; 2,000 VVIPs to attend ceremony</a></strong></p>

<p>IMD Mumbai scientist Sushma Nair said, “Since the strength of the easterly winds was very strong, the sea breeze set in very late. Furthermore, there was an anticyclone at 700 MPA. Owing to these factors, the day temperatures shot up.”</p>

<p>“Following the cyclone, there has been a low formation in the Arabian Sea which has resulted in moisture incursion. This brought rain to some pockets of the region,” said Sunil Kamble, IMD Mumbai director.</p>

<h2><strong>Hottest December day</strong></h2>

<p>The drizzle resulted in high humidity and heat levels, leading to a rise in temperature by 4 degrees Celsius above normal, as recorded at the Santacruz observatory.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eknath-shinde-to-take-oath-as-maharashtra-dy-cm-along-with-ajit-pawar-tomorrow-report-781526">Eknath Shinde to take oath as Maharashtra Dy CM along with Ajit Pawar tomorrow: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>According to the IMD data, the last hottest day recorded in the city was on December 5, 2008, when the temperature soared to 37.7 degrees Celsius. While the warmest December day the metropolitan ever recorded was 39.8 degrees Celsius in 1987.</p>

<p>While Wednesday was the hottest day of December in the past 16 years, December’s warmest day ever was recorded in 1987 when maximum temperatures soared to 39.8 degrees.</p>

<p>After observing the hottest day in 16 years on December 4, Mumbai also recorded a hot night with a minimum temperature of 25.5 degrees Celsius.</p>

<h2><strong>IMD forecast for upcoming days</strong></h2>

<p>Light rain is&nbsp;likely to continue in the neighbouring districts of Raigad and Ratnagiri for the next two days. While warmer weather is expected to persist for the next 3-4 days in Mumbai, after which the temperature will likely fall.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Mumbai recorded its hottest December day in the last 16 years after the spike in maximum temperature on Wednesday, December 4. The city recorded 37.3 degrees Celsius after light drizzle in the early hours of the day in several areas.

Mumbai recorded its hottest December day in the last 16 years after the spike in maximum temperature on Wednesday, December 4. The city recorded 37.3 degrees Celsius after light drizzle in the early hours of the day in several areas. Surprisingly, this comes after Mumbai observed its coldest day in eight years since 2016 last week on Friday, November 29, when the temperature dipped to 16.5 degrees Celsius. Aftermath of Cyclone Fengal Experts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) have attributed this unusual occurrence of weather in the city to the influx of strong easterlies and moisture, an aftermath of Cyclone Fengal that made landfall in Tamil Nadu on November 30. Also read | Fadnavis to take oath as Maharashtra CM today; 2,000 VVIPs to attend ceremony IMD Mumbai scientist Sushma Nair said, “Since the strength of the easterly winds was very strong, the sea breeze set in very late. Furthermore, there was an anticyclone at 700 MPA. Owing to these factors, the day temperatures shot up.” “Following the cyclone, there has been a low formation in the Arabian Sea which has resulted in moisture incursion. This brought rain to some pockets of the region,” said Sunil Kamble, IMD Mumbai director. Hottest December day The drizzle resulted in high humidity and heat levels, leading to a rise in temperature by 4 degrees Celsius above normal, as recorded at the Santacruz observatory. Also read | Eknath Shinde to take oath as Maharashtra Dy CM along with Ajit Pawar tomorrow: Report According to the IMD data, the last hottest day recorded in the city was on December 5, 2008, when the temperature soared to 37.7 degrees Celsius. While the warmest December day the metropolitan ever recorded was 39.8 degrees Celsius in 1987. While Wednesday was the hottest day of December in the past 16 years, December’s warmest day ever was recorded in 1987 when maximum temperatures soared to 39.8 degrees. After observing the hottest day in 16 years on December 4, Mumbai also recorded a hot night with a minimum temperature of 25.5 degrees Celsius. IMD forecast for upcoming days Light rain is likely to continue in the neighbouring districts of Raigad and Ratnagiri for the next two days. While warmer weather is expected to persist for the next 3-4 days in Mumbai, after which the temperature will likely fall. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Mumbai records hottest December day in last 16 years

<p>After almost two weeks of suspense over Maharashtra chief minister's face, Bharatiya Janata Party’s Devendra Fadnavis will finally be taking oath today (Dec 5) to become the top leader of India’s richest state. BJP allies of the Mahayuti bloc, Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde and NCP's Ajit Pawar, will also take up the role of deputy chief ministers in the new cabinet. Soon after Mahayuti’s landslide victory in the Nov 20 elections, the Shinde camp&nbsp;staked claim to the CM throne but eventually, the top seat went to the BJP stalwart.</p>

<p>The oath-taking ceremony will take place in Mumbai’s Azad Maidan at 5 pm IST local time. Senior BJP politicians, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and chief ministers from several states ruled by BJP and its NDA alliance are expected to attend the event.</p>

<h2><strong>Fadnavis’s third stint as CM</strong></h2>

<p>This will be Fadnavis’s third stint as chief minister, having occupied the seat earlier from 2014 to 2019. His second stint however lasted for just five days from Nov 23 to Nov 28, 2019 as Shiv Sena party withdrew its support from the alliance with BJP and instead formed the government by joining hands with the rival bloc.</p>

<p>Fadnavis will be sworn in today as the 18th chief minister of the state, whereas Shinde and Pawar will take oath as the state’s deputy chief ministers.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India: Devendra Fadnavis To Return As Maharashtra Chief Minister</strong></p>

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<p>According to BJP leader Prasad Lad, the ceremony is expected to see gathering of more than 42,000 people. "PM Modi, nine to ten Union Ministers, and 19 Chief Ministers and Deputy Chief Ministers will attend the ceremony," he said. Special arrangements have been made to accommodate arrival of more than 2,000 VVIPs at the site.</p>

<p>Mumbai police have also implemented special measures in view of the grand event. Joint Police Commissioner Satya Narayan Choudhary told reporters that they have implemented a comprehensive deployment plan involving 5 additional commissioners, 15 DCPs, around 700 officers, and more than 4,000 security personnel.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


After almost two weeks of suspense over Maharashtra chief minister's face, Bharatiya Janata Party’s Devendra Fadnavis will finally be taking oath today (Dec 5) to become the top leader of India’s richest state.

After almost two weeks of suspense over Maharashtra chief minister's face, Bharatiya Janata Party’s Devendra Fadnavis will finally be taking oath today (Dec 5) to become the top leader of India’s richest state. BJP allies of the Mahayuti bloc, Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde and NCP's Ajit Pawar, will also take up the role of deputy chief ministers in the new cabinet. Soon after Mahayuti’s landslide victory in the Nov 20 elections, the Shinde camp staked claim to the CM throne but eventually, the top seat went to the BJP stalwart. The oath-taking ceremony will take place in Mumbai’s Azad Maidan at 5 pm IST local time. Senior BJP politicians, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and chief ministers from several states ruled by BJP and its NDA alliance are expected to attend the event. Fadnavis’s third stint as CM This will be Fadnavis’s third stint as chief minister, having occupied the seat earlier from 2014 to 2019. His second stint however lasted for just five days from Nov 23 to Nov 28, 2019 as Shiv Sena party withdrew its support from the alliance with BJP and instead formed the government by joining hands with the rival bloc. Fadnavis will be sworn in today as the 18th chief minister of the state, whereas Shinde and Pawar will take oath as the state’s deputy chief ministers. Watch: India: Devendra Fadnavis To Return As Maharashtra Chief Minister × According to BJP leader Prasad Lad, the ceremony is expected to see gathering of more than 42,000 people. "PM Modi, nine to ten Union Ministers, and 19 Chief Ministers and Deputy Chief Ministers will attend the ceremony," he said. Special arrangements have been made to accommodate arrival of more than 2,000 VVIPs at the site. Mumbai police have also implemented special measures in view of the grand event. Joint Police Commissioner Satya Narayan Choudhary told reporters that they have implemented a comprehensive deployment plan involving 5 additional commissioners, 15 DCPs, around 700 officers, and more than 4,000 security personnel. (With inputs from agencies)

Fadnavis to take oath as Maharashtra CM today; 2,000 VVIPs to attend ceremony

<p>Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Devendra Fadnavis will be sworn in as Maharashtra chief minister on December 5, News agency PTI reported Wednesday.</p>

<p>The final&nbsp;decision to confirm Fadnavis's name as the chief minister of India's richest state was taken in the BJP core committee meeting earlier in the day (Dec 4).&nbsp;</p>

<p>BJP leaders Chandrakant Patil and Sudhir Mungantiwar will now propose Fadnavis’s name before all MLAs to appoint him as the leader of the legislative party.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-maha-battle-shinde-says-told-pm-modi-to-take-decision-amid-suspense-over-cm-post-779637"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;The ‘Maha’ battle: Shinde says told PM Modi to take decision amid suspense over CM post</strong></a></p>

<p>The Wednesday decision ended weeks-long deadlock over the CM's name, with incumbent CM Eknath Shinde also staking claim to the top post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Maharashtra, BJP's Mahayuti alliance won a landslide majority, winning 230 out of 288 seats in the Assembly last month. BJP’s Devendra Fadnavis, Shiv Sena's Eknath Shinde and NCP's Ajit Pawar are key allies of the Mahayuti alliance.</p>

<p>Fadnavis was termed by BJP leaders as the architect of this massive victory, with leaders from BJP recommending his name for the CM post. However, the leaders of Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) are rooting for Eknath Shinde. The Mahayuti alliance had Shinde as their chief minister in the previous term.</p>

<p>Fadnavis will now&nbsp;take oath on December 5 at Azad Maidan in Mumbai in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders.</p>

<p>Shinde anyway didn't have enough leverage over BJP as the party technically can still form government without his support, by relying on Ajit Pawar's NCP. Shinde earlier himself said he won't get upset over the CM post and he would accept whatever will be decided by PM Modi.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Devendra Fadnavis will be sworn in as Maharashtra chief minister on December 5, News agency PTI reported Wednesday. The final decision to confirm Fadnavis's name as the chief minister of India's richest state was taken in the BJP core committee meeting earlier in the day (Dec 4).

Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Devendra Fadnavis will be sworn in as Maharashtra chief minister on December 5, News agency PTI reported Wednesday. The final decision to confirm Fadnavis's name as the chief minister of India's richest state was taken in the BJP core committee meeting earlier in the day (Dec 4). BJP leaders Chandrakant Patil and Sudhir Mungantiwar will now propose Fadnavis’s name before all MLAs to appoint him as the leader of the legislative party. Also read: The ‘Maha’ battle: Shinde says told PM Modi to take decision amid suspense over CM post The Wednesday decision ended weeks-long deadlock over the CM's name, with incumbent CM Eknath Shinde also staking claim to the top post. In Maharashtra, BJP's Mahayuti alliance won a landslide majority, winning 230 out of 288 seats in the Assembly last month. BJP’s Devendra Fadnavis, Shiv Sena's Eknath Shinde and NCP's Ajit Pawar are key allies of the Mahayuti alliance. Fadnavis was termed by BJP leaders as the architect of this massive victory, with leaders from BJP recommending his name for the CM post. However, the leaders of Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) are rooting for Eknath Shinde. The Mahayuti alliance had Shinde as their chief minister in the previous term. Fadnavis will now take oath on December 5 at Azad Maidan in Mumbai in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders. Shinde anyway didn't have enough leverage over BJP as the party technically can still form government without his support, by relying on Ajit Pawar's NCP. Shinde earlier himself said he won't get upset over the CM post and he would accept whatever will be decided by PM Modi. (With inputs from agencies)

Devendra Fadnavis to be Maharashtra chief minister, will take oath on Dec 5

<p>Indian Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar issued a rare rebuke to the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday (Dec 3), saying the promises made to the farmers of the country were not fulfilled. Dhankhar’s statement came amid a rise in farmers’ protests across the country. "Policy-making is not on right track," Dhankhar said, while directing his ire at Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.</p>

<p>"Agriculture minister, every moment is important for you. I request you to please tell me, what was promised to the farmer? Why was the promise not fulfilled?” asked the vice president.</p>

<p>“What should we do to fulfil the promise? There was a movement last year, there is a movement this year too. The wheel of time is turning, we are not doing anything," he added when speaking at a ceremony to mark the centenary of ICAR-CIRCOT, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Central Institute for Research on Cotton Technology.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiAwtGem42KAxX4XGwGHf9SJ0sQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tardy-paddy-procurement-indian-farmers-to-protest-and-block-roads-in-punjab-on-saturday-770423" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tardy-paddy-procurement-indian-farmers-to-protest-and-block-roads-in-punjab-on-saturday-770423&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiAwtGem42KAxX4XGwGHf9SJ0sQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">‘Tardy’ paddy procurement: Indian farmers to protest, block roads in Punjab</a></strong></p>

<p>The VP added that he was witnessing India changing and developing but it was distressing to see the farmers’ situation.</p>

<p>“India was never at such heights in the world... When this is happening, why is my farmer worried and suffering? The farmer is the only one who is helpless," the VP said.</p>

<p>In India, it is rare for vice presidents to hit out at the government. The current VP even hails from PM Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). However, Dhankhar is also known for championing the cause of farmers.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiAwtGem42KAxX4XGwGHf9SJ0sQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-buffalo-valued-at-rs-230-million-eats-eggs-and-almonds-bathes-with-oils-776452" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-buffalo-valued-at-rs-230-million-eats-eggs-and-almonds-bathes-with-oils-776452&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiAwtGem42KAxX4XGwGHf9SJ0sQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">India: Buffalo valued at Rs 230 million eats eggs and almonds, bathes with oils</a></strong></p>

<p>Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan is yet to respond to Dhankhar’s comments.</p>

<p>The VP’s rebuke to the Modi government came as farmers earlier this week rallied to capital Delhi and adjoining Noida to highlight their problems, leading to a massive traffic chaos. Farmers are pressing the government to allow them guaranteed compensation and benefits.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar issued a rare rebuke to the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday (Dec 3), saying the promises made to the farmers of the country were not fulfilled.

Indian Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar issued a rare rebuke to the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday (Dec 3), saying the promises made to the farmers of the country were not fulfilled. Dhankhar’s statement came amid a rise in farmers’ protests across the country. "Policy-making is not on right track," Dhankhar said, while directing his ire at Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. "Agriculture minister, every moment is important for you. I request you to please tell me, what was promised to the farmer? Why was the promise not fulfilled?” asked the vice president. “What should we do to fulfil the promise? There was a movement last year, there is a movement this year too. The wheel of time is turning, we are not doing anything," he added when speaking at a ceremony to mark the centenary of ICAR-CIRCOT, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Central Institute for Research on Cotton Technology. Also read: ‘Tardy’ paddy procurement: Indian farmers to protest, block roads in Punjab The VP added that he was witnessing India changing and developing but it was distressing to see the farmers’ situation. “India was never at such heights in the world... When this is happening, why is my farmer worried and suffering? The farmer is the only one who is helpless," the VP said. In India, it is rare for vice presidents to hit out at the government. The current VP even hails from PM Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). However, Dhankhar is also known for championing the cause of farmers. Also read: India: Buffalo valued at Rs 230 million eats eggs and almonds, bathes with oils Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan is yet to respond to Dhankhar’s comments. The VP’s rebuke to the Modi government came as farmers earlier this week rallied to capital Delhi and adjoining Noida to highlight their problems, leading to a massive traffic chaos. Farmers are pressing the government to allow them guaranteed compensation and benefits. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Policy making not on right track,’ VP Dhankhar issues rare rebuke to Modi govt over farmers' protest

<p>An earthquake of magnitude 5.3 jolted the Mulugu district of Telangana on Wednesday morning, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS).</p>

<p>As per the NCS, the tremor was recorded at around 7:27 am on Wednesday and was centred around the Mulugu region at a depth of 40 km.</p>

<p>"EQ of M: 5.3, On: 04/12/2024 07:27:02 IST, Lat: 18.44 N, Long: 80.24 E, Depth: 40 Km, Location: Mulugu, Telangana," National Centre for Seismology posted on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">EQ of M: 5.3, On: 04/12/2024 07:27:02 IST, Lat: 18.44 N, Long: 80.24 E, Depth: 40 Km, Location: Mulugu, Telangana.<br />
For more information Download the BhooKamp App <a href="https://t.co/5gCOtjdtw0">https://t.co/5gCOtjdtw0</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DrJitendraSingh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrJitendraSingh</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficeOfDrJS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OfficeOfDrJS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravi_MoES?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ravi_MoES</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Dr_Mishra1966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dr_Mishra1966</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ndmaindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ndmaindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/x6FAg300H5">pic.twitter.com/x6FAg300H5</a></p>
— National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCS_Earthquake/status/1864129397919547493?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>There were no immediate reports of casualties or major damage.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-to-launch-europes-proba-3-satellites-2530-hrs-countdown-starts-781157">ISRO to launch Europe's Proba-3 satellites - 25.30 hours countdown starts</a></strong></p>

<p>Further details are awaited.</p>

<p>There are four Seismic zones in India - Zone II, Zone III, Zone IV and Zone V. Zone V expects the highest level of seismicity whereas Zone II is associated with the lowest level of seismicity. Telangana is grouped in Zone II, low intensity zone.</p>

<p>Approximately, 11% of the country falls in zone V, approximately18% in zone IV, approximately 30% in zone III and the remaining in zone II. A total of approximately 59% of the landmass of India (covering all states of India) is prone to earthquakes of different intensities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


An earthquake of magnitude 5.3 jolted the Mulugu district of Telangana on Wednesday morning, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS). As per the NCS, the tremor was recorded at around 7:27 am on Wednesday and was centred around the Mulugu region at a depth of 40 km.

An earthquake of magnitude 5.3 jolted the Mulugu district of Telangana on Wednesday morning, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS). As per the NCS, the tremor was recorded at around 7:27 am on Wednesday and was centred around the Mulugu region at a depth of 40 km. "EQ of M: 5.3, On: 04/12/2024 07:27:02 IST, Lat: 18.44 N, Long: 80.24 E, Depth: 40 Km, Location: Mulugu, Telangana," National Centre for Seismology posted on X. EQ of M: 5.3, On: 04/12/2024 07:27:02 IST, Lat: 18.44 N, Long: 80.24 E, Depth: 40 Km, Location: Mulugu, Telangana. For more information Download the BhooKamp App https://t.co/5gCOtjdtw0 @DrJitendraSingh @OfficeOfDrJS @Ravi_MoES @Dr_Mishra1966 @ndmaindia pic.twitter.com/x6FAg300H5 — National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) December 4, 2024 × There were no immediate reports of casualties or major damage. Also read: ISRO to launch Europe's Proba-3 satellites - 25.30 hours countdown starts Further details are awaited. There are four Seismic zones in India - Zone II, Zone III, Zone IV and Zone V. Zone V expects the highest level of seismicity whereas Zone II is associated with the lowest level of seismicity. Telangana is grouped in Zone II, low intensity zone. Approximately, 11% of the country falls in zone V, approximately18% in zone IV, approximately 30% in zone III and the remaining in zone II. A total of approximately 59% of the landmass of India (covering all states of India) is prone to earthquakes of different intensities. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India: Earthquake of magnitude 5.3 jolts Telangana's Mulugu

<p>Sukhbir Singh Badal,&nbsp;senior Punjab politician and former deputy chief minister of the north Indian state,&nbsp;faced a gun attack on Wednesday (Dec 4) when a man shot at him while the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader was serving penance outside the&nbsp;Golden Temple in Amritsar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Badal was not hurt in the attack, and his attacker was immediately overpowered by&nbsp; people present at the spot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A video of the incident is going viral on social media. Watch it here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | Punjab: A man opened fire at Shiromani Akali Dal leader Sukhbir Singh Badal at the entrance of Golden Temple, Amritsar. The person was overpowered by people present on the spot. More details are awaited.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PunjabNews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PunjabNews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SukhbirSinghBadal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SukhbirSinghBadal</a><br />
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(Full video available on PTI… <a href="https://t.co/LC55kCV864">pic.twitter.com/LC55kCV864</a></p>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1864158514106810553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>What happened to Sukhbir Badal?</strong></h2>

<p>Badal was sitting in his wheelchair outside&nbsp;<a data-cid="6936533577008293006" data-ved="2ahUKEwj_o_D4po2KAxVAVmwGHXxEGW4Q1YkKegQILRAB" jsaction="click:h5M12e;" jsname="kj0dLd" role="button" tabindex="0">Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) </a>on the second day of his penance&nbsp;<a data-cid="6936533577008293006" data-ved="2ahUKEwj_o_D4po2KAxVAVmwGHXxEGW4Q1YkKegQILRAB" jsaction="click:h5M12e;" jsname="kj0dLd" role="button" tabindex="0">when the incident happened. In the video, he can be seen in blue</a>&nbsp;'sewadar' cloths, holding a spear with a small board hung around his neck acknowledging his "misdeeds" when the attacker takes a shot at him but misses due to the timely intervention of a man present there.</p>

<p>In a statement,&nbsp;police official Harpal Singh said, "There were proper security arrangements here...Sukhbir ji was properly covered (given cover)".</p>

<p>He identified the attacker as Narayan Singh Chaura and said that the assailant "was here yesterday as well...Today too, he first paid obeisance to the Guru..."</p>

<p>He said nobody was hurt by the bullet, which&nbsp;missed Badal, hitting a wall instead.</p>

<p>Videos of the bullet pock and the empty bullet shell are also being shared online.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Punjab: Visuals from Golden Temple in Amritsar where a bullet was fired at SAD leaders, including party chief Sukhbir Singh Badal. <a href="https://t.co/FsKOzmvcxt">pic.twitter.com/FsKOzmvcxt</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1864163937576734982?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Punjab: Visuals of the empty bullet shell fired at Golden Temple premises in Amritsar where SAD leaders, including party chief Sukhbir Singh Badal, are offering 'seva' under the religious punishments pronounced for them by Sri Akal Takht Sahib, on 2nd December. <a href="https://t.co/RGSt6Mis6t">pic.twitter.com/RGSt6Mis6t</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1864163217859334208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>SAD leader calls for high-level judicial enquiry</strong></h2>

<p>Shiromani Akali Dal leader Daljit Singh Cheema, the&nbsp;former Punjab education&nbsp;minister, in a statement to the press, expressed his gratitude that Badal wasn't hurt and called for a high-level judicial enquiry into the incident.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Shots fired at Golden Temple | SAD leader Daljit Singh Cheema says, "...First of all, I would like to thank Guru Nanak. Jako Rakhe Saaiyan, Maar Sake Na Koy. 'Sevaks' were offering 'seva' here. SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal was sitting by the Guru Ram Das Dwar as… <a href="https://t.co/r7ntTcCA01">pic.twitter.com/r7ntTcCA01</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1864165472348066093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Sukhbir Singh Badal, senior Punjab politician and former deputy chief minister of the north Indian state, faced a gun attack on Wednesday (Dec 4) when a man shot at him while the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader was serving penance outside the Golden Temple in Amritsar.

Sukhbir Singh Badal, senior Punjab politician and former deputy chief minister of the north Indian state, faced a gun attack on Wednesday (Dec 4) when a man shot at him while the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader was serving penance outside the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Badal was not hurt in the attack, and his attacker was immediately overpowered by people present at the spot. A video of the incident is going viral on social media. Watch it here: VIDEO | Punjab: A man opened fire at Shiromani Akali Dal leader Sukhbir Singh Badal at the entrance of Golden Temple, Amritsar. The person was overpowered by people present on the spot. More details are awaited.#PunjabNews #SukhbirSinghBadal (Full video available on PTI… pic.twitter.com/LC55kCV864 — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 4, 2024 × What happened to Sukhbir Badal? Badal was sitting in his wheelchair outside Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) on the second day of his penance when the incident happened. In the video, he can be seen in blue 'sewadar' cloths, holding a spear with a small board hung around his neck acknowledging his "misdeeds" when the attacker takes a shot at him but misses due to the timely intervention of a man present there. In a statement, police official Harpal Singh said, "There were proper security arrangements here...Sukhbir ji was properly covered (given cover)". He identified the attacker as Narayan Singh Chaura and said that the assailant "was here yesterday as well...Today too, he first paid obeisance to the Guru..." He said nobody was hurt by the bullet, which missed Badal, hitting a wall instead. Videos of the bullet pock and the empty bullet shell are also being shared online. #WATCH | Punjab: Visuals from Golden Temple in Amritsar where a bullet was fired at SAD leaders, including party chief Sukhbir Singh Badal. pic.twitter.com/FsKOzmvcxt — ANI (@ANI) December 4, 2024 × #WATCH | Punjab: Visuals of the empty bullet shell fired at Golden Temple premises in Amritsar where SAD leaders, including party chief Sukhbir Singh Badal, are offering 'seva' under the religious punishments pronounced for them by Sri Akal Takht Sahib, on 2nd December. pic.twitter.com/RGSt6Mis6t — ANI (@ANI) December 4, 2024 × SAD leader calls for high-level judicial enquiry Shiromani Akali Dal leader Daljit Singh Cheema, the former Punjab education minister, in a statement to the press, expressed his gratitude that Badal wasn't hurt and called for a high-level judicial enquiry into the incident. #WATCH | Shots fired at Golden Temple | SAD leader Daljit Singh Cheema says, "...First of all, I would like to thank Guru Nanak. Jako Rakhe Saaiyan, Maar Sake Na Koy. 'Sevaks' were offering 'seva' here. SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal was sitting by the Guru Ram Das Dwar as… pic.twitter.com/r7ntTcCA01 — ANI (@ANI) December 4, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

Sukhbir Singh Badal shot at outside India's Golden Temple, assailant overpowered by crowd

<p>In a shocking incident, a man, his wife, and their daughter were found brutally stabbed to death in their home in the Neb Sarai area of South Delhi on the morning of Wednesday (Dec 4).&nbsp;According to the Indian news agency ANI, the son who initially reported the crime later confessed to committing it.</p>

<p>The victims were identified as 53-year-old Rajesh, his wife Komal, 47, and their 23-year-old daughter Kavita.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-hospital-horror-doctor-shot-dead-by-2-teenagers-who-entered-hospital-under-pretext-of-injury-764063"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Delhi hospital horror: Doctor shot dead by 2 teenagers who entered hospital under pretext of injury</strong></a></p>

<p>The police came after receiving the call and started their investigation. In initial reports, nothing was said to have been stolen from the house, and there was no sign of a break-in.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Joint CP, Southern range, SK Jain said, "At the scene of the crime, there was no sign of theft or forced entry, and the bodies were found on the bed. It was clear that it was not a case of robbery or burglary. Footage from all CCTV cameras was examined. Arjun, the main complainant and son, started to reveal facts when he was questioned by the police. Slowly, we could see contradictions in his statements. In the end, he confessed to the murder of his father, mother and sister. Arjun's relations with his father and family were not good. His father was an ex-serviceman. He used his Army knife to commit the crime. The motive behind the murders was that the man used to feel humiliated by his father's scoldings. The second reason was sibling rivalry. In anger, he planned to kill them and selected December 4 as the date to commit the crime as it was the wedding anniversary of his parents."</p>

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<p>A neighbour told Indian news agency ANI that they rushed to the house after hearing noise. The son told neighbours that he went for a morning walk after wishing his parents on their wedding anniversary, only to return and find the tragic scene. "He said he saw blood all around and his parents and sister had been stabbed to death," the neighbour added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Delhi Police use AI to solve a murder mystery</strong></p>

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<p>Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, and former CM Arvind Kejriwal have condemned the incident and criticised the central government for failing to make the city safe. Atishi accused the Centre of failing in its duty to protect people, while Kejriwal called it "extremely painful and frightening," stating that law and order in Delhi had collapsed.</p>

<p>The Delhi Police, under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, said it was carrying on with the investigation into the&nbsp;triple&nbsp;murder.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a shocking incident, a man, his wife, and their daughter were found brutally stabbed to death in their home in the Neb Sarai area of South Delhi on the morning of Wednesday (Dec 4).

In a shocking incident, a man, his wife, and their daughter were found brutally stabbed to death in their home in the Neb Sarai area of South Delhi on the morning of Wednesday (Dec 4). According to the Indian news agency ANI, the son who initially reported the crime later confessed to committing it. The victims were identified as 53-year-old Rajesh, his wife Komal, 47, and their 23-year-old daughter Kavita. Also read: Delhi hospital horror: Doctor shot dead by 2 teenagers who entered hospital under pretext of injury The police came after receiving the call and started their investigation. In initial reports, nothing was said to have been stolen from the house, and there was no sign of a break-in. Joint CP, Southern range, SK Jain said, "At the scene of the crime, there was no sign of theft or forced entry, and the bodies were found on the bed. It was clear that it was not a case of robbery or burglary. Footage from all CCTV cameras was examined. Arjun, the main complainant and son, started to reveal facts when he was questioned by the police. Slowly, we could see contradictions in his statements. In the end, he confessed to the murder of his father, mother and sister. Arjun's relations with his father and family were not good. His father was an ex-serviceman. He used his Army knife to commit the crime. The motive behind the murders was that the man used to feel humiliated by his father's scoldings. The second reason was sibling rivalry. In anger, he planned to kill them and selected December 4 as the date to commit the crime as it was the wedding anniversary of his parents." #WATCH | Delhi | On Neb Sarai triple murder, Joint CP, Southern range, SK Jain says, "At the scene of the crime, there was no sign of theft and forced entry, and the bodies were found on the bed. It was clear that it was not a case of robbery or burglary. Footage from all CCTV… pic.twitter.com/ubDqHjXW43 — ANI (@ANI) December 4, 2024 × A neighbour told Indian news agency ANI that they rushed to the house after hearing noise. The son told neighbours that he went for a morning walk after wishing his parents on their wedding anniversary, only to return and find the tragic scene. "He said he saw blood all around and his parents and sister had been stabbed to death," the neighbour added. Watch | Gravitas: Delhi Police use AI to solve a murder mystery × Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, and former CM Arvind Kejriwal have condemned the incident and criticised the central government for failing to make the city safe. Atishi accused the Centre of failing in its duty to protect people, while Kejriwal called it "extremely painful and frightening," stating that law and order in Delhi had collapsed. The Delhi Police, under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, said it was carrying on with the investigation into the triple murder. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi triple murder: Police say son killed family over father's scolding and sibling rivalry

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