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<p>The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has informed the Supreme Court that a Khaliatani terrorist based in Canada masterminded the 2020 murder of&nbsp;Shaurya Chakra awardee comrade Balwinder Singh Sandhu in the Indian state of&nbsp;Punjab.</p>

<p>India's premier investigative agency in its submission to the court said Sukhmeet Pal Singh, alias Sunny Toronto, and Lakhveer Singh&nbsp;alias Rode&nbsp;were tasked to kill Sandhu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The conspiracy was allegedly hatched by Sunny Toronto in order to eliminate anti-Khalistani entities in India.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>While&nbsp;Sunny Toronto is an operative of the&nbsp;Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), Rode is the nephew of Jarnail Singh Bhindrawala and head of the terror outfit, International Sikh Youth Federation and KLF.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The main objective of the Khalistan Liberation Force is to create Khalistan by means of an armed struggle," the NIA said in its affidavit.</p>

<p>It added that anyone opposed to the Khalistan ideology was deemed a target by the group who intended to kill them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Sandhu was shot dead by unidentified assailants outside his house at Bhikhiwind in Tarn Taran district in October 2020. He was awarded the Shaurya Chakra for fighting against militancy in the state in the 1990s.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-canada-row-canadian-foreign-minister-hints-at-sanctions-as-ties-nosedive-wion-originals-768034"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India-Canada Row: Canadian Foreign Minister Hints At Sanctions As Ties Nosedive | WION Originals</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Canada-India ties and Khalistan movement&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The development comes in the backdrop of the Khalistani separatist movement gaining pace in Canada with the liberal government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau seemingly giving its tacit backing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Canada&nbsp;in recent days has doubled down on its claims that the Indian government was behind the killing of Khalistani terrorist, Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Ottawa claims it was an attack on a Canadian citizen while New Delhi has asked for proof while refuting the allegations.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trudeau-says-india-attacking-me-personally-canada-police-allege-new-delhi-bishnoi-gang-collaboration-767468"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Trudeau says India ‘attacking’ me personally; Canada police allege New Delhi-Bishnoi gang collaboration</strong></a></p>

<p>On Monday (Oct 14), India recalled its High Commissioner to Canada, Sanjay Verma and other top diplomats, saying it had lost faith in the Trudeau government to protect its assets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have no faith in the current Canadian Government's commitment to ensure their security. Therefore, the Government of India has decided to withdraw the High Commissioner and other targeted diplomats and officials," read a statement by the ministry.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later in the day, six Canadian diplomats, including&nbsp;Charge d'Affaires, Stewart Wheeler were asked to leave India by or before 11:59 pm local time on Saturday (Oct 19).</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has informed the Supreme Court that a Khaliatani terrorist based in Canada masterminded the 2020 murder of Shaurya Chakra awardee comrade Balwinder Singh Sandhu in the Indian state of Punjab.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has informed the Supreme Court that a Khaliatani terrorist based in Canada masterminded the 2020 murder of Shaurya Chakra awardee comrade Balwinder Singh Sandhu in the Indian state of Punjab. India's premier investigative agency in its submission to the court said Sukhmeet Pal Singh, alias Sunny Toronto, and Lakhveer Singh alias Rode were tasked to kill Sandhu. The conspiracy was allegedly hatched by Sunny Toronto in order to eliminate anti-Khalistani entities in India. While Sunny Toronto is an operative of the Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), Rode is the nephew of Jarnail Singh Bhindrawala and head of the terror outfit, International Sikh Youth Federation and KLF. "The main objective of the Khalistan Liberation Force is to create Khalistan by means of an armed struggle," the NIA said in its affidavit. It added that anyone opposed to the Khalistan ideology was deemed a target by the group who intended to kill them. Notably, Sandhu was shot dead by unidentified assailants outside his house at Bhikhiwind in Tarn Taran district in October 2020. He was awarded the Shaurya Chakra for fighting against militancy in the state in the 1990s. Watch | India-Canada Row: Canadian Foreign Minister Hints At Sanctions As Ties Nosedive | WION Originals × Canada-India ties and Khalistan movement The development comes in the backdrop of the Khalistani separatist movement gaining pace in Canada with the liberal government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau seemingly giving its tacit backing. Canada in recent days has doubled down on its claims that the Indian government was behind the killing of Khalistani terrorist, Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Ottawa claims it was an attack on a Canadian citizen while New Delhi has asked for proof while refuting the allegations. Also read | Trudeau says India ‘attacking’ me personally; Canada police allege New Delhi-Bishnoi gang collaboration On Monday (Oct 14), India recalled its High Commissioner to Canada, Sanjay Verma and other top diplomats, saying it had lost faith in the Trudeau government to protect its assets. "We have no faith in the current Canadian Government's commitment to ensure their security. Therefore, the Government of India has decided to withdraw the High Commissioner and other targeted diplomats and officials," read a statement by the ministry. Later in the day, six Canadian diplomats, including Charge d'Affaires, Stewart Wheeler were asked to leave India by or before 11:59 pm local time on Saturday (Oct 19). (With inputs from agencies)

Canada-based Khalistani terrorists behind killing of Shaurya Chakra awardee teacher in India: NIA

<p>A helicopter carrying Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar had to make an emergency landing in a village near Munsiyari due to bad weather on Wednesday (Oct 16), an official said.</p>

<p>Pithoragarh District Magistrate Vinod Girish Goswami said the chopper, which was on its way to Milam Glacier, left at around 1:00 pm.</p>

<p>However, due to the cloudy weather and low visibility, it landed on a helipad in Ralam village, 42 km away, at around 1:30 pm, he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indigo-mumbai-delhi-flight-diverted-after-hoax-bomb-threat-marks-12th-incident-in-2-days-768040">IndiGo Mumbai-Delhi flight diverted after hoax bomb threat; marks 12th incident in 2 days</a></strong><br />
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<br />
Additional Chief Election Officer of Uttarakhand Vijay Kumar Jogdande is with the CEC, he said.</p>

<p>There were three people on board the helicopter apart from the pilot. They are all safe and waiting for the weather to clear up to return to Munsiyari, the DM said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/minor-arrested-in-connection-to-hoax-bomb-threats-to-indian-airlines-768041">Teenager detained in connection to hoax bomb threats to Indian carriers</a></strong></p>

<p>They have the necessary communication equipment including satellite phones, he added.</p>

<p>"I have talked to the CEC twice. They are all safe. If the weather clears up, they will be taken back to Munsiyari and if it does not, they will rest at the ITBP camp near Ralam," the DM said.</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>


A helicopter carrying Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar had to make an emergency landing in a village near Munsiyari due to bad weather on Wednesday (Oct 16), an official said.

A helicopter carrying Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar had to make an emergency landing in a village near Munsiyari due to bad weather on Wednesday (Oct 16), an official said. Pithoragarh District Magistrate Vinod Girish Goswami said the chopper, which was on its way to Milam Glacier, left at around 1:00 pm. However, due to the cloudy weather and low visibility, it landed on a helipad in Ralam village, 42 km away, at around 1:30 pm, he said. Also Read | IndiGo Mumbai-Delhi flight diverted after hoax bomb threat; marks 12th incident in 2 days Additional Chief Election Officer of Uttarakhand Vijay Kumar Jogdande is with the CEC, he said. There were three people on board the helicopter apart from the pilot. They are all safe and waiting for the weather to clear up to return to Munsiyari, the DM said. Also Read | Teenager detained in connection to hoax bomb threats to Indian carriers They have the necessary communication equipment including satellite phones, he added. "I have talked to the CEC twice. They are all safe. If the weather clears up, they will be taken back to Munsiyari and if it does not, they will rest at the ITBP camp near Ralam," the DM said. 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.

Helicopter carrying CEC Rajiv Kumar makes emergency landing in India's Uttarakhand

<p>The Mumbai Police has nabbed a minor in connection to the spree of hoax bomb threats received by Indian airlines in the last 72 hours. According to reports, the minor sent bomb threats to four flights using a fake social media account that he made in his friend's name to implicate him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The messages were posted by a 17-year-old, class 11 student from&nbsp;Rajnandgaon in the central-eastern Indian state of Chhattisgarh. Both the boy and his father had been summoned to Mumbai for questioning.</p>

<p>Of the four flights that the minor sent threats to, two got delayed while one was cancelled. The police believe that it was a revenge plot as the accused had some dispute with a friend over money.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the investigators, the information related to the threat messages was first received by the authorities on Monday (Oct 14) morning. Since then, two more FIRs have been registered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“On Tuesday, the minor was questioned in the case. After technical analysis indicated his role, he was detained and presented before the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) that sent him to four-day custody for police inquiry,” a senior police officer was quoted as saying by newspaper <em>The&nbsp;Indian Express</em>.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indigo-mumbai-delhi-flight-diverted-after-hoax-bomb-threat-marks-12th-incident-in-2-days-768040"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;IndiGo Mumbai-Delhi flight diverted after hoax bomb threat; marks 12th incident in 2 days</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Bomb threats to flights</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, earlier on Wednesday (Oct 16), a Delhi-Bengaluru Akasa Air flight with 184 people returned to the Indira Gandhi International Airport after receiving a bomb threat.</p>

<p>“Akasa Air flight QP 1335, flying from Delhi to Bengaluru on October 16, 2024, and carrying 174 passengers, 3 infants and 7 crew members on board, received a security alert," the airline said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Akasa Air Emergency Response teams are monitoring the situation and have advised the pilot to divert the flight to Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi with abundant precaution."</p>

<p>Similarly, on Tuesday (Oct 15) night, a Delhi-bound IndiGo flight from Mumbai was diverted to Ahmedabad after it received a bomb threat, which turned out to be a hoax.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, Air India's Boeing 777-300 ER aircraft en route to Chicago from Delhi was&nbsp;also diverted to a Canadian airport after receiving a bomb threat.</p>

<h2><strong>High-level meeting</strong></h2>

<p>The Ministry of Civil Aviation on Wednesday called for a high-level meeting to look into the issue. Prior to the meeting,&nbsp;Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu took note of the recent incidents with the Bureau of Civil Aviation, CISF, and other senior officials in airport security.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Mumbai Police has nabbed a minor in connection to the spree of hoax bomb threats received by Indian airlines in the last 72 hours. According to reports, the minor sent bomb threats to four flights using a fake social media account that he made in his friend's name to implicate him.

The Mumbai Police has nabbed a minor in connection to the spree of hoax bomb threats received by Indian airlines in the last 72 hours. According to reports, the minor sent bomb threats to four flights using a fake social media account that he made in his friend's name to implicate him. The messages were posted by a 17-year-old, class 11 student from Rajnandgaon in the central-eastern Indian state of Chhattisgarh. Both the boy and his father had been summoned to Mumbai for questioning. Of the four flights that the minor sent threats to, two got delayed while one was cancelled. The police believe that it was a revenge plot as the accused had some dispute with a friend over money. According to the investigators, the information related to the threat messages was first received by the authorities on Monday (Oct 14) morning. Since then, two more FIRs have been registered. “On Tuesday, the minor was questioned in the case. After technical analysis indicated his role, he was detained and presented before the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) that sent him to four-day custody for police inquiry,” a senior police officer was quoted as saying by newspaper The Indian Express. Also read | IndiGo Mumbai-Delhi flight diverted after hoax bomb threat; marks 12th incident in 2 days Bomb threats to flights Notably, earlier on Wednesday (Oct 16), a Delhi-Bengaluru Akasa Air flight with 184 people returned to the Indira Gandhi International Airport after receiving a bomb threat. “Akasa Air flight QP 1335, flying from Delhi to Bengaluru on October 16, 2024, and carrying 174 passengers, 3 infants and 7 crew members on board, received a security alert," the airline said in a statement. "The Akasa Air Emergency Response teams are monitoring the situation and have advised the pilot to divert the flight to Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi with abundant precaution." Similarly, on Tuesday (Oct 15) night, a Delhi-bound IndiGo flight from Mumbai was diverted to Ahmedabad after it received a bomb threat, which turned out to be a hoax. Moreover, Air India's Boeing 777-300 ER aircraft en route to Chicago from Delhi was also diverted to a Canadian airport after receiving a bomb threat. High-level meeting The Ministry of Civil Aviation on Wednesday called for a high-level meeting to look into the issue. Prior to the meeting, Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu took note of the recent incidents with the Bureau of Civil Aviation, CISF, and other senior officials in airport security. (With inputs from agencies)

Teenager detained in connection to hoax bomb threats to Indian carriers

<p>A Delhi-bound IndiGo flight from Mumbai was diverted to Ahmedabad on Tuesday night (Oct 15) after receiving a bomb threat, which was later found out to be a hoax, an official said on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is notably the 12th such incident in the past two days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The aircraft carrying nearly 200 passengers and crew was safely disembarked, and after a thorough check, no suspicious items were found.</p>

<p>After the flight 6E 651&nbsp;took off from Mumbai, an unidentified person through X (formerly Twitter) claimed that a bomb had been placed in the aircraft, an official from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport said.</p>

<p>The Mumbai ATC then alerted the pilots, following which they decided to make an emergency landing at Ahmedabad airport, which was the closest airport, the official said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"After landing here during midnight, the aircraft, carrying nearly 200 passengers and crew, was thoroughly checked by the security agencies overnight. However, nothing suspicious was found. The flight took off for Delhi at around 8 am today morning after getting a green signal from the security personnel," the official said.</p>

<p>IndiGo issued a statement saying that the flight was redirected to Ahmedabad due to a "security-related alert".&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-express-plane-escorted-by-singapore-jets-after-bomb-threat-767823"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Singapore fighter jets escort Air India Express plane after bomb threat</strong></a></p>

<p>"The aircraft was isolated, and all passengers were safely disembarked. Ensuring the safety and security of our customers and crew remains paramount in all facets of our operations. We worked closely with the relevant authorities, and standard operating procedures were followed," it said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We sincerely regret any inconvenience this situation may have caused our customers and appreciate their understanding," the airline added.</p>

<h2><strong>Akasa Air flight receives bomb threat, declares emergency</strong></h2>

<p>A Delhi-Bengaluru Akasa Air flight with 184 people returned to the Indira Gandhi International Airport on Wednesday (Oct 16) after declaring an emergency following a bomb threat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Akasa Air, in a statement, said that flight QP 1335 was set to land in Delhi around 2 pm.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Bomb Threats Disrupt 7 Indian Flights, Prompt Emergency Landings</strong></p>

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<p>“Akasa Air flight QP 1335, flying from Delhi to Bengaluru on October 16, 2024, and carrying 174 passengers, 3 infants and 7 crew members on board, received a security alert. The Akasa Air Emergency Response teams are monitoring the situation and have advised the pilot to divert the flight to Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi with abundant precaution. The Captain is following all required emergency procedures for a safe landing in Delhi and the estimated time of arrival is approximately 14:00 hrs,” Akasa Air spokesperson said in a statement.</p>

<p>This comes a day after seven flights, including one bound for the US, received bomb threats through a social media handle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, on Tuesday, Air India's Boeing 777-300 ER aircraft en route to Chicago from Delhi was diverted to an airport in Canada after receiving a bomb threat.</p>

<p>Additionally, in the last two days, at least 10 Indian flights have received bomb threats, and after security checks,&nbsp;they were all found to be hoaxes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A Delhi-bound IndiGo flight from Mumbai was diverted to Ahmedabad on Tuesday night (Oct 15) after receiving a bomb threat, which was later found out to be a hoax, an official said on Wednesday.

A Delhi-bound IndiGo flight from Mumbai was diverted to Ahmedabad on Tuesday night (Oct 15) after receiving a bomb threat, which was later found out to be a hoax, an official said on Wednesday. This is notably the 12th such incident in the past two days. The aircraft carrying nearly 200 passengers and crew was safely disembarked, and after a thorough check, no suspicious items were found. After the flight 6E 651 took off from Mumbai, an unidentified person through X (formerly Twitter) claimed that a bomb had been placed in the aircraft, an official from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport said. The Mumbai ATC then alerted the pilots, following which they decided to make an emergency landing at Ahmedabad airport, which was the closest airport, the official said. "After landing here during midnight, the aircraft, carrying nearly 200 passengers and crew, was thoroughly checked by the security agencies overnight. However, nothing suspicious was found. The flight took off for Delhi at around 8 am today morning after getting a green signal from the security personnel," the official said. IndiGo issued a statement saying that the flight was redirected to Ahmedabad due to a "security-related alert". Also read: Singapore fighter jets escort Air India Express plane after bomb threat "The aircraft was isolated, and all passengers were safely disembarked. Ensuring the safety and security of our customers and crew remains paramount in all facets of our operations. We worked closely with the relevant authorities, and standard operating procedures were followed," it said. "We sincerely regret any inconvenience this situation may have caused our customers and appreciate their understanding," the airline added. Akasa Air flight receives bomb threat, declares emergency A Delhi-Bengaluru Akasa Air flight with 184 people returned to the Indira Gandhi International Airport on Wednesday (Oct 16) after declaring an emergency following a bomb threat. Akasa Air, in a statement, said that flight QP 1335 was set to land in Delhi around 2 pm. Watch | Bomb Threats Disrupt 7 Indian Flights, Prompt Emergency Landings × “Akasa Air flight QP 1335, flying from Delhi to Bengaluru on October 16, 2024, and carrying 174 passengers, 3 infants and 7 crew members on board, received a security alert. The Akasa Air Emergency Response teams are monitoring the situation and have advised the pilot to divert the flight to Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi with abundant precaution. The Captain is following all required emergency procedures for a safe landing in Delhi and the estimated time of arrival is approximately 14:00 hrs,” Akasa Air spokesperson said in a statement. This comes a day after seven flights, including one bound for the US, received bomb threats through a social media handle. Moreover, on Tuesday, Air India's Boeing 777-300 ER aircraft en route to Chicago from Delhi was diverted to an airport in Canada after receiving a bomb threat. Additionally, in the last two days, at least 10 Indian flights have received bomb threats, and after security checks, they were all found to be hoaxes. (With inputs from agencies)

IndiGo Mumbai-Delhi flight diverted after hoax bomb threat; marks 12th incident in 2 days

<p>India on Wednesday (Oct 16) refused to endorse China's&nbsp; 'One Belt One Road' at the&nbsp;Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, reiterating its strong opposition against the controversial initiative.</p>

<p>All members barring India supported China's project, aimed at building trade routes but importantly, imposing strategic control over the region.&nbsp;The joint communique issued at the end of the summit, hosted by Islamabad stated that Russia, Belarus, Iran,&nbsp;Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan&nbsp;reaffirmed their support for OBOR.</p>

<p>India's&nbsp;External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar took to X (formerly Twitter) and subtly took a dig at China's initiative.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Upholding fair and balanced connectivity projects in accordance with international law, the goals and principles of the UN Charter and SCO Charter," posted Jaishankar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Reemphasizing rules-based, non-discriminatory, open, fair, inclusive and transparent multilateral trading system with WTO at its core," he added.</p>

<p>Notably, India had refused its endorsement last year as well when the SCO Summit was held in New Delhi.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A productive meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government concluded in Islamabad today.<br />
<br />
Signed eight outcome documents. India made a positive and constructive contribution to the deliberations.<br />
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8 key takeaways from the Indian perspective:<br />
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➡️ Developing a dialogue on the… <a href="https://t.co/uOxdZ5hJTL">pic.twitter.com/uOxdZ5hJTL</a></p>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1846491514496799081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Watch | SCO Summit 2024: Jaishankar Becomes First Indian Foreign Minister to Visit Pak In A Decade</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Jaishankar's address</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Earlier, during his address, Jaishankar took a swipe at both Pakistan and China by calling for introspection if good neighbours had gone missing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If we fast-forward from the inception of the Charter to the situation today, these goals and these tasks are even more crucial. It is, therefore, essential that we have an honest conversation," said Jaishankar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If trust is lacking or cooperation inadequate, if friendship has fallen short and good neighbourliness is missing somewhere, there are surely reasons to introspect and causes to address. Equally, it is only when we reaffirm our commitment most sincerely to the Charter that we can fully realise the benefits of cooperation and integration that it envisages," he added.</p>

<p>The Indian leader termed cross-border terrorism, extremism and separatism as the "three evils" that hinder trade and people-to-people relations between countries.</p>

<p>Notably, it was&nbsp;the first visit by an Indian foreign minister to Pakistan in nine years. The previous visit was in December 2015, when Sushma Swaraj travelled to Islamabad for the 'Heart of Asia' conference on Afghanistan, accompanied by Jaishankar, who was&nbsp;then serving as India's foreign secretary.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India on Wednesday (Oct 16) refused to endorse China's 'One Belt One Road' at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, reiterating its strong opposition against the controversial initiative.

India on Wednesday (Oct 16) refused to endorse China's 'One Belt One Road' at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, reiterating its strong opposition against the controversial initiative. All members barring India supported China's project, aimed at building trade routes but importantly, imposing strategic control over the region. The joint communique issued at the end of the summit, hosted by Islamabad stated that Russia, Belarus, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan reaffirmed their support for OBOR. India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar took to X (formerly Twitter) and subtly took a dig at China's initiative. "Upholding fair and balanced connectivity projects in accordance with international law, the goals and principles of the UN Charter and SCO Charter," posted Jaishankar. "Reemphasizing rules-based, non-discriminatory, open, fair, inclusive and transparent multilateral trading system with WTO at its core," he added. Notably, India had refused its endorsement last year as well when the SCO Summit was held in New Delhi. A productive meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government concluded in Islamabad today. Signed eight outcome documents. India made a positive and constructive contribution to the deliberations. 8 key takeaways from the Indian perspective: ➡️ Developing a dialogue on the… pic.twitter.com/uOxdZ5hJTL — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 16, 2024 × Watch | SCO Summit 2024: Jaishankar Becomes First Indian Foreign Minister to Visit Pak In A Decade × Jaishankar's address Earlier, during his address, Jaishankar took a swipe at both Pakistan and China by calling for introspection if good neighbours had gone missing. "If we fast-forward from the inception of the Charter to the situation today, these goals and these tasks are even more crucial. It is, therefore, essential that we have an honest conversation," said Jaishankar. "If trust is lacking or cooperation inadequate, if friendship has fallen short and good neighbourliness is missing somewhere, there are surely reasons to introspect and causes to address. Equally, it is only when we reaffirm our commitment most sincerely to the Charter that we can fully realise the benefits of cooperation and integration that it envisages," he added. The Indian leader termed cross-border terrorism, extremism and separatism as the "three evils" that hinder trade and people-to-people relations between countries. Notably, it was the first visit by an Indian foreign minister to Pakistan in nine years. The previous visit was in December 2015, when Sushma Swaraj travelled to Islamabad for the 'Heart of Asia' conference on Afghanistan, accompanied by Jaishankar, who was then serving as India's foreign secretary. (With inputs from agencies)

SCO roundup: India opposes China's OBOR, Jaishankar schools Pakistan, and more

<p>The Union Cabinet has approved a 3&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;increase in Dearness Allowance (DA), raising it from 50&nbsp;per cent to 53 per cent of basic pay. This decision was announced on Wednesday by Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/samsung-india-workers-call-off-strike-after-thirty-eight-days-767994">Samsung India workers call off strike after thirty-eight days</a></p>

<h2><strong>Effective date and impact</strong></h2>

<p>The DA hike will take effect from July 1, 2024.&nbsp;This increase is expected to provide significant relief to around 11.5 million (1.15 crore) central government employees and pensioners facing the pressures of rising living costs.</p>

<p>In a related move, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai announced a 4&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;hike in Dearness Allowance for state government employees, increasing it to 50&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of their basic salary, effective October 1, 2024.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/german-envoy-performs-indian-rituals-after-buying-new-ev-ties-lemon-and-chill-smashes-coconut-767998">German envoy performs Indian rituals after buying new EV; ties 'lemon and chill', smashes coconut</a></p>

<h2><strong>Understanding dearness allowance</strong></h2>

<p>Dearness Allowance is a financial benefit provided to government employees to help offset the effects of inflation. It is calculated as a percentage of the employee's basic salary and is revised every six months based on the All India Consumer Price Index (AICPI), which tracks retail price changes.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/complete-defiance-sc-scolds-punjab-haryana-over-rising-cases-of-stubble-burning-767991">‘Complete defiance,’ SC scolds Punjab and Haryana over rising cases of stubble burning</a></p>

<p>This latest hike follows a 4 per cent increase in March 2024, which had previously raised DA to 50&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Seventh Pay Commission states that when DA hits 50&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;or more, certain allowances, including house rent allowance (HRA), must be revised. This took place earlier this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sco-roundup-india-opposes-chinas-obor-jaishankar-schools-pakistan-and-more-768020">SCO roundup: India opposes China's OBOR, Jaishankar schools Pakistan, and more</a></p>

<p>This ongoing commitment to revising allowances aims to ensure that government employees receive adequate compensation in light of inflationary pressures.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Union Cabinet has approved a 3 per cent increase in Dearness Allowance (DA), raising it from 50 per cent to 53 per cent of basic pay. This decision was announced on Wednesday by Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

The Union Cabinet has approved a 3 per cent increase in Dearness Allowance (DA), raising it from 50 per cent to 53 per cent of basic pay. This decision was announced on Wednesday by Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. Also read | Samsung India workers call off strike after thirty-eight days Effective date and impact The DA hike will take effect from July 1, 2024. This increase is expected to provide significant relief to around 11.5 million (1.15 crore) central government employees and pensioners facing the pressures of rising living costs. In a related move, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai announced a 4 per cent hike in Dearness Allowance for state government employees, increasing it to 50 per cent of their basic salary, effective October 1, 2024. Also read | German envoy performs Indian rituals after buying new EV; ties 'lemon and chill', smashes coconut Understanding dearness allowance Dearness Allowance is a financial benefit provided to government employees to help offset the effects of inflation. It is calculated as a percentage of the employee's basic salary and is revised every six months based on the All India Consumer Price Index (AICPI), which tracks retail price changes. Also read | ‘Complete defiance,’ SC scolds Punjab and Haryana over rising cases of stubble burning This latest hike follows a 4 per cent increase in March 2024, which had previously raised DA to 50 per cent The Seventh Pay Commission states that when DA hits 50 per cent or more, certain allowances, including house rent allowance (HRA), must be revised. This took place earlier this year. Also read | SCO roundup: India opposes China's OBOR, Jaishankar schools Pakistan, and more This ongoing commitment to revising allowances aims to ensure that government employees receive adequate compensation in light of inflationary pressures. (With inputs from agencies)

Diwali bonanza: Govt announces 3 per cent hike in DA for central govt employees

National Conference leader Omar Abdullah took oath as Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir in Srinagar today (October 16). Along with the new CM, five new ministers also took oath.

Jammu-Kashmir: Omar Abdullah Takes Oath As Chief Minister, Congress To Provide Outside Support

<p>The two killers arrested in the Baba Siddique murder, Gurmail Singh and Dharamraj Kashyap learned to shoot by watching YouTube videos ANI reported citing the Mumbai Police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far in the case, the Mumbai Police has arrested four accused, while three others remain absconding. Multiple teams have been formed to track them down. Meanwhile, the crime branch of the city police recovered a black bag containing a 7.62 mm gun.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chennai-rain-update-incessant-rains-led-to-severe-waterlogging-across-chennai-city-roads-video-767941">Chennai rain update: Incessant rains led to severe waterlogging across Chennai city roads | Video</a></p>

<p>“The accused were given Baba Siddique's photo to identify him. The shooters had surveyed his residence and office 25 days before the incident. Gurmail Singh and Dharamraj Kashyap learned shooting from YouTube and practised shooting without a magazine in Mumbai,” ANI quoted the Mumbai Police as saying.</p>

<h2><strong>Fourth suspect arrested</strong></h2>

<p>The crime branch has arrested the fourth suspect in the case, identified as Harishkumar Balakram, 23, from Bahraich in Uttar Pradesh. He has been arrested for allegedly providing financial support and logistics for the high-profile murder.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Balakram worked as a scrap dealer in Pune and was part of the conspiracy, said the police. Two of the three accused – Dharmaraj and Shivprasad Gautam – also used to work in Balakram's scrap shop.</p>

<p>Maharashtra’s politician Baba Siddique, 66, was stopped by three persons in Mumbai’s Nirmal Nagar area, just outside the office of his MLA son Zeeshan Siddique, and was shot dead on Saturday night (Oct 12). The NCP leader was declared dead upon reaching the Lilavati Hospital.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-omar-abdullah-becomes-first-cm-of-jk-ut-no-seat-for-ally-congress-in-cabinet-767951">India: Omar Abdullah becomes first CM of J&amp;K UT, no seat for ally Congress in cabinet</a></p>

<p>“According to the information received from Mumbai Crime Branch, the entire planning of Baba Siddiqui's murder was done in Pune. Mumbai Crime Branch has so far recorded the statements of more than 15 people, including many eyewitnesses who were present at the time of the incident,” the police said.</p>

<p>The killers claimed to be associated with the Bishnoi gang, whose leader Lawrence remains imprisoned in Gujarat's Sabarmati Jail.</p>

<p>The Baba Siddique murder has put the spotlight on the Bishnoi gang's operations, which have demonstrated a powerful ability to organise and execute high-profile crimes from inside the prison.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The two killers arrested in the Baba Siddique murder, Gurmail Singh and Dharamraj Kashyap learned to shoot by watching YouTube videos ANI reported citing the Mumbai Police.

The two killers arrested in the Baba Siddique murder, Gurmail Singh and Dharamraj Kashyap learned to shoot by watching YouTube videos ANI reported citing the Mumbai Police. So far in the case, the Mumbai Police has arrested four accused, while three others remain absconding. Multiple teams have been formed to track them down. Meanwhile, the crime branch of the city police recovered a black bag containing a 7.62 mm gun. Also Read | Chennai rain update: Incessant rains led to severe waterlogging across Chennai city roads | Video “The accused were given Baba Siddique's photo to identify him. The shooters had surveyed his residence and office 25 days before the incident. Gurmail Singh and Dharamraj Kashyap learned shooting from YouTube and practised shooting without a magazine in Mumbai,” ANI quoted the Mumbai Police as saying. Fourth suspect arrested The crime branch has arrested the fourth suspect in the case, identified as Harishkumar Balakram, 23, from Bahraich in Uttar Pradesh. He has been arrested for allegedly providing financial support and logistics for the high-profile murder. Balakram worked as a scrap dealer in Pune and was part of the conspiracy, said the police. Two of the three accused – Dharmaraj and Shivprasad Gautam – also used to work in Balakram's scrap shop. Maharashtra’s politician Baba Siddique, 66, was stopped by three persons in Mumbai’s Nirmal Nagar area, just outside the office of his MLA son Zeeshan Siddique, and was shot dead on Saturday night (Oct 12). The NCP leader was declared dead upon reaching the Lilavati Hospital. Also Read | India: Omar Abdullah becomes first CM of J&K UT, no seat for ally Congress in cabinet “According to the information received from Mumbai Crime Branch, the entire planning of Baba Siddiqui's murder was done in Pune. Mumbai Crime Branch has so far recorded the statements of more than 15 people, including many eyewitnesses who were present at the time of the incident,” the police said. The killers claimed to be associated with the Bishnoi gang, whose leader Lawrence remains imprisoned in Gujarat's Sabarmati Jail. The Baba Siddique murder has put the spotlight on the Bishnoi gang's operations, which have demonstrated a powerful ability to organise and execute high-profile crimes from inside the prison. (With inputs from agencies)

Baba Siddique murder: Killers watched YouTube to practise shooting, says Mumbai Police

<p>German Ambassador to India, Philipp Ackermann switched to Electric Vehicle with sustainability in mind and marked the occasion with Indian customs and rituals as he smashed a coconut and tied 'nimbu-mirchi' (lemon and chillies) in his new car.</p>

<p>The ritual is believed to ward off evil spirits.</p>

<p>Ackermann said that as the pollution in Delhi increases during winters, he switched to EVs to "contribute" to reducing it.</p>

<p>"Germany and India are committed to a mutual partnership, which is called the partnership agreement to sustainable development...In winter time, pollution gets really bad and I felt that we should do a contribution to reducing pollution. I wanted to have an EV and that is why my HQ accepted after a while that we get a new car which is an e-Car and therefore reduces pollution. That was the main aim," he said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/october-2024-is-germany-ka-mahotsov-in-delhi-amb-ackermann-765758"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;October 2024 is 'Germany ka Mahotsav' in Delhi: Ambassador Ackermann</strong></a></p>

<p>Earlier on October 12, Ackermann expressed his happiness over launching the Federation of European Business in India (FEBI) in Delhi and said the organisation would push the free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations between India and Europe.</p>

<p>Talking to ANI, Ackermann said that the launch of FEBI in Delhi is an important step as Europe plays an important role in the Indian business ecosystem.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;German Envoy Ackermann upbeat on Indian Business Climate; Says key Indo-German talks this year</strong></p>

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<p>"It's a great moment. I think FEBI is a very, very interesting network. It is now a network that has over a hundred companies from Europe, and it's an umbrella organization of all the bilateral chambers of commerce. And I think in the time when Europe always plays a more and bigger role in India, it is a very, very interesting and important network. In the near future, we will see FEBI being very active in very many fields, not least also when it comes to the FTA negotiations between India and the EU," the German Ambassador said.</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&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


German Ambassador to India, Philipp Ackermann switched to Electric Vehicle with sustainability in mind and marked the occasion with Indian customs and rituals as he smashed a coconut and tied 'nimbu-mirchi' (lemon and chillies) in his new car.

German Ambassador to India, Philipp Ackermann switched to Electric Vehicle with sustainability in mind and marked the occasion with Indian customs and rituals as he smashed a coconut and tied 'nimbu-mirchi' (lemon and chillies) in his new car. The ritual is believed to ward off evil spirits. Ackermann said that as the pollution in Delhi increases during winters, he switched to EVs to "contribute" to reducing it. "Germany and India are committed to a mutual partnership, which is called the partnership agreement to sustainable development...In winter time, pollution gets really bad and I felt that we should do a contribution to reducing pollution. I wanted to have an EV and that is why my HQ accepted after a while that we get a new car which is an e-Car and therefore reduces pollution. That was the main aim," he said. Also read: October 2024 is 'Germany ka Mahotsav' in Delhi: Ambassador Ackermann Earlier on October 12, Ackermann expressed his happiness over launching the Federation of European Business in India (FEBI) in Delhi and said the organisation would push the free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations between India and Europe. Talking to ANI, Ackermann said that the launch of FEBI in Delhi is an important step as Europe plays an important role in the Indian business ecosystem. Watch | German Envoy Ackermann upbeat on Indian Business Climate; Says key Indo-German talks this year × "It's a great moment. I think FEBI is a very, very interesting network. It is now a network that has over a hundred companies from Europe, and it's an umbrella organization of all the bilateral chambers of commerce. And I think in the time when Europe always plays a more and bigger role in India, it is a very, very interesting and important network. In the near future, we will see FEBI being very active in very many fields, not least also when it comes to the FTA negotiations between India and the EU," the German Ambassador said. 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.

German envoy performs Indian rituals after buying new EV; ties 'lemon and chillies', smashes coconut

<p>Omar Abdullah was sworn in as the first chief minister of the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday (Oct 16). Right after taking over as the CM, Abdullah took to social media and said he had spoken to the DGP Jammu Kashmir Police and asked him that there should be no green corridor or traffic stoppage when his (CM's) cavalcade moves in the UT.</p>

<p>''I have spoken to the DG @JmuKmrPolice that there is to be no “green corridor” or traffic stoppage when I move anywhere by road. I have instructed him to minimise public inconvenience &amp; the use of sirens is to be minimal. The use of any stick waving or aggressive gestures is to be totally avoided. I’m asking my cabinet colleagues to follow the same example. In everything our conduct must be people-friendly. We are here to serve the people &amp; not to inconvenience them,'' Abdullah posted on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, in a historic ceremony held at the scenic SKICC on the banks of Dal Lake, Omar and&nbsp;five leaders were administered oath by J&amp;K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, marking a significant political milestone for the region, which has been without an elected government for over six years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Joining Abdullah in the new cabinet are Surinder Chowdhary, who will serve as deputy chief minister, along with ministers Sakina Itoo, Satish Sharma, Javaid Dar, and Javaid Rana.</p>

<p>The cabinet appointments reflect a strategic focus on inclusivity, with representation from both Jammu and Kashmir regions. Notably, Chowdhary, Rana, and Sharma hail from Jammu, while Itoo and Dar represent Kashmir. The National Conference-led government has intelligently given representation to every division and community.</p>

<p>''National Conference is a party that has always given equal importance to all the three regions. Those who point fingers should be asked why they don't have LG of Jammu and Kashmir from Jammu. This is for the first time that a deputy CM has been made from the Pir Panjal region. I am very thankful to the top leadership for giving representation to every division. The whole of Jammu and Kashmir has very high hopes from us and there is a gap of ten years, and we will have to do our best to solve the issues of people, '' said Chowdhary.</p>

<p>This momentous occasion comes after the last Assembly elections in 2014, following which the region underwent significant political changes, including the revocation of Article 370 in August 2019 by the central government. The National Conference emerged as the single largest party in the recent elections, securing 42 seats with additional support from independent MLAs and the CPI(M).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Omar Abdullah has also given one cabinet berth to a female MLA, Sakina Itoo. She represents the people of south Kashmir.</p>

<p>''The women are facing a lot of issues, and some issues are such that they cannot even express or talk about. We have to work a lot for them and solve the issues of women and men both in the coming time,'' said Itoo.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a surprising twist, the Congress party decided not to join the ministry in the newly-formed coalition government in J&amp;K.<br />
<br />
The Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) GA Mir said that the, "Congress party has strongly demanded from the centre to restore statehood to J&amp;K, besides the prime minister has time and again in public meetings promised the same. But the statehood has not been restored to J&amp;K. We are unhappy therefore we are not joining the ministry at the moment."</p>

<p>''Why won't they restore statehood, it's not begging but the rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The PM has been saying everywhere from Parliament and outside the parliament, during the campaigning also that statehood would be restored. They have to respect the mandate of the people. As a party, we won't enter the cabinet at this stage,&nbsp;let us wait till PM will respond as he has committed that after the election statehood would be restored. Now there is no issue pending that he will not give us the state, let's wait for the time being and we will discuss it later," said G A Mir, AICC General Secretary.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Jammu-Kashmir: Omar Abdullah Stakes Claim To Form New Government</strong></p>

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<p>The ceremony was attended by prominent leaders from the INDIA bloc, including Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, AICC Chief Mallikarjun Kharge, and General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Akhilesh Yadav, D Raja. Their presence underscored the importance of this political transition in Jammu and Kashmir.</p>

<p>''I have come to Srinagar to convey my party, the Communist party's good wishes to Omar Abdullah. It's going to be a good beginning for the Jammu and Kashmir region. India Bloc has got the majority, and a new government is formed. Statehood would be the priority for Omar Abdullah and how to ensure the rights of the people. Jammu and Kashmir results will have an impact on Maharashtra and Jharkhand elections as well," said D Raja, leader of CPI(M).</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-omar-abdullah-becomes-first-cm-of-jk-ut-no-seat-for-ally-congress-in-cabinet-767951"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India: Omar Abdullah becomes first CM of J&amp;K UT, no seat for ally Congress in cabinet</strong></a></p>

<p>However, political analysts suggest that the concerns over the political standing of the National Conference on Article 370 have kept Congress away from joining the government. It is believed that Congress wanted to keep itself away from any controversy in view of the upcoming assembly polls in Maharashtra and Jharkhand.</p>

<p>''Right now, we are part of the government, and we have given support to the government. All the congress legislators have given support, and it was a decision taken by high command. If we are not ministers in the cabinet that does not mean we are not part of the government,'' said Irfan Hafeez Lone, MLA, Congress Party.</p>

<p>As Omar Abdullah takes on the responsibilities of chief minister, all eyes will be on his administration to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.</p>


Omar Abdullah was sworn in as the first chief minister of the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday (Oct 16). Right after taking over as the CM, Abdullah took to social media and said he had spoken to the DGP Jammu Kashmir Police and asked him that there should be no green corridor or traffic stoppage when his (CM's) cavalcade moves in the UT.

Omar Abdullah was sworn in as the first chief minister of the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday (Oct 16). Right after taking over as the CM, Abdullah took to social media and said he had spoken to the DGP Jammu Kashmir Police and asked him that there should be no green corridor or traffic stoppage when his (CM's) cavalcade moves in the UT. ''I have spoken to the DG @JmuKmrPolice that there is to be no “green corridor” or traffic stoppage when I move anywhere by road. I have instructed him to minimise public inconvenience & the use of sirens is to be minimal. The use of any stick waving or aggressive gestures is to be totally avoided. I’m asking my cabinet colleagues to follow the same example. In everything our conduct must be people-friendly. We are here to serve the people & not to inconvenience them,'' Abdullah posted on X. Meanwhile, in a historic ceremony held at the scenic SKICC on the banks of Dal Lake, Omar and five leaders were administered oath by J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, marking a significant political milestone for the region, which has been without an elected government for over six years. Joining Abdullah in the new cabinet are Surinder Chowdhary, who will serve as deputy chief minister, along with ministers Sakina Itoo, Satish Sharma, Javaid Dar, and Javaid Rana. The cabinet appointments reflect a strategic focus on inclusivity, with representation from both Jammu and Kashmir regions. Notably, Chowdhary, Rana, and Sharma hail from Jammu, while Itoo and Dar represent Kashmir. The National Conference-led government has intelligently given representation to every division and community. ''National Conference is a party that has always given equal importance to all the three regions. Those who point fingers should be asked why they don't have LG of Jammu and Kashmir from Jammu. This is for the first time that a deputy CM has been made from the Pir Panjal region. I am very thankful to the top leadership for giving representation to every division. The whole of Jammu and Kashmir has very high hopes from us and there is a gap of ten years, and we will have to do our best to solve the issues of people, '' said Chowdhary. This momentous occasion comes after the last Assembly elections in 2014, following which the region underwent significant political changes, including the revocation of Article 370 in August 2019 by the central government. The National Conference emerged as the single largest party in the recent elections, securing 42 seats with additional support from independent MLAs and the CPI(M). Omar Abdullah has also given one cabinet berth to a female MLA, Sakina Itoo. She represents the people of south Kashmir. ''The women are facing a lot of issues, and some issues are such that they cannot even express or talk about. We have to work a lot for them and solve the issues of women and men both in the coming time,'' said Itoo. In a surprising twist, the Congress party decided not to join the ministry in the newly-formed coalition government in J&K. The Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) GA Mir said that the, "Congress party has strongly demanded from the centre to restore statehood to J&K, besides the prime minister has time and again in public meetings promised the same. But the statehood has not been restored to J&K. We are unhappy therefore we are not joining the ministry at the moment." ''Why won't they restore statehood, it's not begging but the rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The PM has been saying everywhere from Parliament and outside the parliament, during the campaigning also that statehood would be restored. They have to respect the mandate of the people. As a party, we won't enter the cabinet at this stage, let us wait till PM will respond as he has committed that after the election statehood would be restored. Now there is no issue pending that he will not give us the state, let's wait for the time being and we will discuss it later," said G A Mir, AICC General Secretary. Watch | Jammu-Kashmir: Omar Abdullah Stakes Claim To Form New Government × The ceremony was attended by prominent leaders from the INDIA bloc, including Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, AICC Chief Mallikarjun Kharge, and General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Akhilesh Yadav, D Raja. Their presence underscored the importance of this political transition in Jammu and Kashmir. ''I have come to Srinagar to convey my party, the Communist party's good wishes to Omar Abdullah. It's going to be a good beginning for the Jammu and Kashmir region. India Bloc has got the majority, and a new government is formed. Statehood would be the priority for Omar Abdullah and how to ensure the rights of the people. Jammu and Kashmir results will have an impact on Maharashtra and Jharkhand elections as well," said D Raja, leader of CPI(M). Also read | India: Omar Abdullah becomes first CM of J&K UT, no seat for ally Congress in cabinet However, political analysts suggest that the concerns over the political standing of the National Conference on Article 370 have kept Congress away from joining the government. It is believed that Congress wanted to keep itself away from any controversy in view of the upcoming assembly polls in Maharashtra and Jharkhand. ''Right now, we are part of the government, and we have given support to the government. All the congress legislators have given support, and it was a decision taken by high command. If we are not ministers in the cabinet that does not mean we are not part of the government,'' said Irfan Hafeez Lone, MLA, Congress Party. As Omar Abdullah takes on the responsibilities of chief minister, all eyes will be on his administration to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Omar Abdullah takes over as CM of Jammu and Kashmir. Issues first order to J&K Police

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:15,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:69,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1991}">Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is attending&nbsp;the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Islamabad, took swipe at neighbours Pakistan and China. The Indian foreign minister said, "If activities across borders are characterised by terrorism, extremism and separatism, they are hardly likely to encourage trade, energy flows, connectivity and people-to-people exchanges in parallel."</p>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:103,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2079}"><strong bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:103,&quot;w&quot;:158,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2079}">Mutual respect</strong></h2>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:147,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2123}">Speaking of cooperation among SCO member states, Jaishankar stressed the importance of mutual respect and territorial integrity as foundational principles.</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:197,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2173}"><strong bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:197,&quot;w&quot;:698,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2173}">Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:197,&quot;w&quot;:698,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2173}" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-sco-summit-jaishankars-visit-to-pakistan-includes-possible-dinner-with-pm-shehbaz-sharif-report-767376">Ahead of SCO Summit, Jaishankar’s visit to Pakistan includes possible dinner with PM Shehbaz Sharif: Report</a></strong></p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:247,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:52,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2223}">"Cooperation must be based on mutual respect and sovereign equality. It should recognise territorial integrity and sovereignty. Cooperation must be built on genuine partnerships, not unilateral agendas. It cannot progress if we cherry-pick global practices," he remarked in an apparent dig at Pakistan and China.</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:314,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2290}">Jaishankar highlighted that development and growth hinge on peace and stability, emphasising the need for a firm commitment to the SCO Charter.&nbsp;</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:363,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:52,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2339}">"Our endeavours will progress only when our commitment to the SCO Charter remains firm. It is axiomatic that development and growth require peace and stability. And as the Charter spelt out, this means being firm and uncompromising in countering the three evils'."</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:430,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2406}">"Our collective endeavours can expand resources and encourage investment flows," he added.</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:463,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2439}"><strong bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:463,&quot;w&quot;:685,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2439}">Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:463,&quot;w&quot;:685,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2439}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sco-summit-2024-check-key-attendees-dates-and-agenda-s-jaishankar-to-attend-767640">SCO Summit 2024: Check key attendees, dates and agenda; Jaishankar representing India</a></strong></p>

<div bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:512,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:240,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2488}" class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:116,&quot;y&quot;:523,&quot;w&quot;:505,&quot;h&quot;:219,&quot;abs_x&quot;:149,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2499}" class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:121,&quot;y&quot;:523,&quot;w&quot;:495,&quot;h&quot;:219,&quot;abs_x&quot;:154,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2499}" class="twitter-tweet">
<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:182,&quot;y&quot;:562,&quot;w&quot;:409,&quot;h&quot;:126,&quot;abs_x&quot;:215,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2538}" dir="ltr" lang="en">Delivered 🇮🇳’s national statement at the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting today morning in Islamabad.<br bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:542,&quot;y&quot;:579,&quot;w&quot;:0,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:575,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2555}" />
<br bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:387,&quot;y&quot;:594,&quot;w&quot;:0,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:420,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2570}" />
SCO needs to be able and adept at responding to challenges facing us in a turbulent world. In this context, highlighted that:<br bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:580,&quot;y&quot;:625,&quot;w&quot;:0,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:613,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2601}" />
<br bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:387,&quot;y&quot;:640,&quot;w&quot;:0,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:420,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2616}" />
➡️ SCO’s primary goal of combatting… <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:297,&quot;y&quot;:673,&quot;w&quot;:178,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:330,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2649}" href="https://t.co/oC2wHsWWHD">pic.twitter.com/oC2wHsWWHD</a></p>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:457,&quot;y&quot;:701,&quot;w&quot;:100,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:490,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2677}" href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1846442733487202317?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:710,&quot;y&quot;:513,&quot;w&quot;:20,&quot;h&quot;:20,&quot;abs_x&quot;:743,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2489}" class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:772,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2748}"><strong bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:772,&quot;w&quot;:177,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2748}">Momentous visit</strong></h2>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:816,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:52,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2792}">This marks the first visit by an Indian External Affairs Minister to Pakistan in nine years. The previous visit was in December 2015, when Sushma Swaraj travelled to Islamabad for the 'Heart of Asia' conference on Afghanistan, accompanied by Jaishankar, who was then serving as India's foreign secretary.</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:883,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2859}"><em bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:883,&quot;w&quot;:182,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2859}">(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Islamabad, took swipe at neighbours Pakistan and China.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Islamabad, took swipe at neighbours Pakistan and China. The Indian foreign minister said, "If activities across borders are characterised by terrorism, extremism and separatism, they are hardly likely to encourage trade, energy flows, connectivity and people-to-people exchanges in parallel." Mutual respect Speaking of cooperation among SCO member states, Jaishankar stressed the importance of mutual respect and territorial integrity as foundational principles. Also read | Ahead of SCO Summit, Jaishankar’s visit to Pakistan includes possible dinner with PM Shehbaz Sharif: Report "Cooperation must be based on mutual respect and sovereign equality. It should recognise territorial integrity and sovereignty. Cooperation must be built on genuine partnerships, not unilateral agendas. It cannot progress if we cherry-pick global practices," he remarked in an apparent dig at Pakistan and China. Jaishankar highlighted that development and growth hinge on peace and stability, emphasising the need for a firm commitment to the SCO Charter. "Our endeavours will progress only when our commitment to the SCO Charter remains firm. It is axiomatic that development and growth require peace and stability. And as the Charter spelt out, this means being firm and uncompromising in countering the three evils'." "Our collective endeavours can expand resources and encourage investment flows," he added. Also read | SCO Summit 2024: Check key attendees, dates and agenda; Jaishankar representing India Delivered 🇮🇳’s national statement at the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting today morning in Islamabad. SCO needs to be able and adept at responding to challenges facing us in a turbulent world. In this context, highlighted that: ➡️ SCO’s primary goal of combatting… pic.twitter.com/oC2wHsWWHD — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 16, 2024 × Momentous visit This marks the first visit by an Indian External Affairs Minister to Pakistan in nine years. The previous visit was in December 2015, when Sushma Swaraj travelled to Islamabad for the 'Heart of Asia' conference on Afghanistan, accompanied by Jaishankar, who was then serving as India's foreign secretary. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian FM Jaishankar takes a jab at Pak, China at SCO: 'Terrorism...hardly likely to encourage connectivity'

<p>After thirty-eight days of protest, workers at Samsung Electronics have decided to end the strike and return to work. Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) General Secretary A Soundararajan demanded that the administration must submit before the labour department replies to questions and concerns that were raised by employees. He also mentioned that company administration should not take any action as revenge for the strike.</p>

<p>The management of Samsung India announced several measures in the interest of the workers, as per the communication by the State Labour Department.</p>

<p>Speaking to ANI, E Muthukumar, CITU Kancheepuram district secretary and A Soundararajan, CITU General Secretary said, "Strike has been withdrawn."</p>

<p>"Yesterday, a discussion was held at the Secretariat. Four Ministers and Labour Department officials participated in it. We made some decisions after hearing both sides. Based on that, the Labour Department has issued some suggestions for the company, which they need to abide by. Company administration should not take any action as revenge for the strike," said CITU General Secretary A Soundarajan.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjRvcDs1JKJAxUd1DQHHbMEJKQQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-industry-bodies-concerned-over-samsung-strike-entering-2nd-month-766327" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-industry-bodies-concerned-over-samsung-strike-entering-2nd-month-766327&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjRvcDs1JKJAxUd1DQHHbMEJKQQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">India: Industry bodies concerned over Samsung strike entering 2nd month</a></strong></p>

<p>"The administration should submit its reply before the labour department replies to questions and concerns which were raised by employees. They have asked employees who are all returning to work to cooperate with the administration and the administration in return will also cooperate. Legality must be the basis of administration's functioning. This is a Memorandum of Understanding we have agreed upon. From tomorrow, employees will return to work," he added.</p>

<p>On October 15, the Tamil Nadu government said that the Samsung workers had agreed to resolve the strike amicably at the earliest.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjRvcDs1JKJAxUd1DQHHbMEJKQQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/samsung-india-workers-protest-on-for-a-week-cops-detain-few-758993" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/samsung-india-workers-protest-on-for-a-week-cops-detain-few-758993&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjRvcDs1JKJAxUd1DQHHbMEJKQQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Samsung India workers' protest on for a week; cops detain few</a></strong></p>

<p>"In accordance with the instructions of the Hon'ble Chief Minister, the Minister for PWD, Highways and Minor Ports, the Minister for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, the Hon'ble Minister for Labour Welfare and Skill Development and the Minister for Industries, along with officials from various departments, conducted meetings with concerned parties at various stages. As a consequence, Samsung Management announced several welfare measures in the interest of the workers," the government said.</p>

<p>"Consequently, on October 15, 2024, conciliation talks were held before the officials of the Department of Labour Welfare. During the conciliation talks, representatives from both the management and the striking workers participated and the following decisions were arrived at, all the striking workers will immediately call off the strike and return to work. On returning to work, the management will not victimise the workers only for having participated in the strike. After returning to work, the workers to cooperate with the management fully and not do any such acts prejudicial to the interest of the Management," it stated.</p>

<p>The management will file a written reply to the charter of demands filed by the workers before the conciliation officer.</p>

<p>Notably, the Samsung factory is located in Sunguvarchatiram in Kanchipuram district, which is on the outskirts of Chennai. More than 1500 workers are working, and since September 9, they have been on a continuous protest, insisting on a wage hike, union recognition, and 8-hour working hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


After thirty-eight days of protest, workers at Samsung Electronics have decided to end the strike and return to work. Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) General Secretary A Soundararajan demanded that the administration must submit before the labour department replies to questions and concerns that were raised by employees.

After thirty-eight days of protest, workers at Samsung Electronics have decided to end the strike and return to work. Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) General Secretary A Soundararajan demanded that the administration must submit before the labour department replies to questions and concerns that were raised by employees. He also mentioned that company administration should not take any action as revenge for the strike. The management of Samsung India announced several measures in the interest of the workers, as per the communication by the State Labour Department. Speaking to ANI, E Muthukumar, CITU Kancheepuram district secretary and A Soundararajan, CITU General Secretary said, "Strike has been withdrawn." "Yesterday, a discussion was held at the Secretariat. Four Ministers and Labour Department officials participated in it. We made some decisions after hearing both sides. Based on that, the Labour Department has issued some suggestions for the company, which they need to abide by. Company administration should not take any action as revenge for the strike," said CITU General Secretary A Soundarajan. Also read: India: Industry bodies concerned over Samsung strike entering 2nd month "The administration should submit its reply before the labour department replies to questions and concerns which were raised by employees. They have asked employees who are all returning to work to cooperate with the administration and the administration in return will also cooperate. Legality must be the basis of administration's functioning. This is a Memorandum of Understanding we have agreed upon. From tomorrow, employees will return to work," he added. On October 15, the Tamil Nadu government said that the Samsung workers had agreed to resolve the strike amicably at the earliest. Also read: Samsung India workers' protest on for a week; cops detain few "In accordance with the instructions of the Hon'ble Chief Minister, the Minister for PWD, Highways and Minor Ports, the Minister for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, the Hon'ble Minister for Labour Welfare and Skill Development and the Minister for Industries, along with officials from various departments, conducted meetings with concerned parties at various stages. As a consequence, Samsung Management announced several welfare measures in the interest of the workers," the government said. "Consequently, on October 15, 2024, conciliation talks were held before the officials of the Department of Labour Welfare. During the conciliation talks, representatives from both the management and the striking workers participated and the following decisions were arrived at, all the striking workers will immediately call off the strike and return to work. On returning to work, the management will not victimise the workers only for having participated in the strike. After returning to work, the workers to cooperate with the management fully and not do any such acts prejudicial to the interest of the Management," it stated. The management will file a written reply to the charter of demands filed by the workers before the conciliation officer. Notably, the Samsung factory is located in Sunguvarchatiram in Kanchipuram district, which is on the outskirts of Chennai. More than 1500 workers are working, and since September 9, they have been on a continuous protest, insisting on a wage hike, union recognition, and 8-hour working hours. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Samsung India workers call off strike after thirty-eight days

<p>Winters are coming in northern India, and so is the choking season as residents stare at staggering levels of air pollution. Now, the Supreme Court of India (SC) has issued a warning to Punjab and Haryana states over the persistent issue of stubble burning, which contributes to poor air quality in neighbouring Delhi.</p>

<p>During proceedings on Wednesday (Oct 16), the country’s top court highlighted the rising cases of stubble burning in the two states, and blasted&nbsp;the major agrarian states for “complete defiance" of directives from the Commission of Air Quality Management.</p>

<p>The apex court also issued summons to the chief secretaries of Punjab and Haryana for the next hearing on Oct 23.</p>

<p>While taking on Haryana, Justice AS Oka said while highlighting compliance issues, “We see that the affidavit by Haryana is full of non-compliance. We direct the Commission to take penal action against State Officers under Section 14." He also directed state's chief secretary T.V.S.N. Prasad<b>&nbsp;</b>to be present in the court and explain the state’s failure to check stubble burning.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjzqOOH05KJAxV94zQHHQcFEeUQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-smog-season-delhi-writes-to-centre-pushes-for-cloud-seeding-to-combat-air-pollution-766458" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-smog-season-delhi-writes-to-centre-pushes-for-cloud-seeding-to-combat-air-pollution-766458&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjzqOOH05KJAxV94zQHHQcFEeUQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">Ahead of smog season, Delhi writes to Centre, pushes for ‘cloud seeding’ to combat air pollution</a></strong></p>

<p>A bench of Justices Abhay S Oka, Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Augustine George Masih directed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to take penal action against Haryana and Punjab government officials.</p>

<p>"This is not a political matter. If chief secretary is acting at somebody's behest, we will issue summons against them as well. Next Wednesday, we are going to physically call chief secretary and explain everything. Nothing has been done, same is with Punjab government. The attitude is of complete defiance," the bench said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjzqOOH05KJAxV94zQHHQcFEeUQxfQBKAB6BAgTEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/e-challans-for-expired-pollution-certificates-indias-e-detection-system-to-combat-pollution-766776" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/e-challans-for-expired-pollution-certificates-indias-e-detection-system-to-combat-pollution-766776&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjzqOOH05KJAxV94zQHHQcFEeUQxfQBKAB6BAgTEAE">E-challans for expired pollution certificates: India's ‘e-detection’ system to combat pollution</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking of Punjab, the bench highlighted how not even a single prosecution has taken place in the state for the widespread offence.</p>

<p>The court also rapped the CAQM for becoming ‘a toothless tiger’.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Winters are coming in northern India, and so is the choking season as residents stare at staggering levels of air pollution. Now, the Supreme Court of India (SC) has issued a warning to Punjab and Haryana states over the persistent issue of stubble burning, which contributes to poor air quality in neighbouring Delhi.

Winters are coming in northern India, and so is the choking season as residents stare at staggering levels of air pollution. Now, the Supreme Court of India (SC) has issued a warning to Punjab and Haryana states over the persistent issue of stubble burning, which contributes to poor air quality in neighbouring Delhi. During proceedings on Wednesday (Oct 16), the country’s top court highlighted the rising cases of stubble burning in the two states, and blasted the major agrarian states for “complete defiance" of directives from the Commission of Air Quality Management. The apex court also issued summons to the chief secretaries of Punjab and Haryana for the next hearing on Oct 23. While taking on Haryana, Justice AS Oka said while highlighting compliance issues, “We see that the affidavit by Haryana is full of non-compliance. We direct the Commission to take penal action against State Officers under Section 14." He also directed state's chief secretary T.V.S.N. Prasad to be present in the court and explain the state’s failure to check stubble burning. Also read: Ahead of smog season, Delhi writes to Centre, pushes for ‘cloud seeding’ to combat air pollution A bench of Justices Abhay S Oka, Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Augustine George Masih directed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to take penal action against Haryana and Punjab government officials. "This is not a political matter. If chief secretary is acting at somebody's behest, we will issue summons against them as well. Next Wednesday, we are going to physically call chief secretary and explain everything. Nothing has been done, same is with Punjab government. The attitude is of complete defiance," the bench said. Also read: E-challans for expired pollution certificates: India's ‘e-detection’ system to combat pollution Speaking of Punjab, the bench highlighted how not even a single prosecution has taken place in the state for the widespread offence. The court also rapped the CAQM for becoming ‘a toothless tiger’. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Complete defiance,’ SC scolds Punjab and Haryana over rising cases of stubble burning

<p><strong>Chennai rain updates:</strong> Heavy rains wreaked havoc in Chennai and other parts of Tamil Nadu on Tuesday (Oct 16). The residential neighbourhood of the city was brought to a standstill, including the house of Indian film star Rajnikanth. The roads were inundated with knee-deep water, disrupting day-to-day activities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incessant downpour led to traffic snarls, crippled public transportation services and also led to cancellations of several domestic flights. Several trains were also diverted, some even stopped ahead of Chennai Central Railway Station.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the well-marked low-pressure area has intensified into a depression and is expected to cross the Chennai coast on October 17 morning.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-3-dead-after-massive-fire-breaks-out-in-multi-storey-building-767924">Mumbai: 3 dead after massive fire breaks out in multi-storey building</a></p>

<p>"Heavy to very heavy rain with extremely heavy rain at one or two places is likely to occur over Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, and Chennai districts," the IMD bulletin stated.</p>

<p>Waterlogging was a common sight in several parts of the state, causing floods in many areas of Chennai.</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> | Tamil Nadu: Severe waterlogging witnessed in parts of Chennai city after incessant rainfall in the region; visuals from Pattalam area. <a href="https://t.co/bMUPUE2jMl">pic.twitter.com/bMUPUE2jMl</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1846417166372884643?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 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> | Tamil Nadu: Waterlogging witnessed in parts of Chennai city; visuals from Pattalam area. <a href="https://t.co/2MeJd2ApF2">pic.twitter.com/2MeJd2ApF2</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1846404847769112776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>In a desperate attempt to avoid waterlogging, several commuters park their cars on the bridge. A video went viral, in which several cars were parked on a bridge in Chennai to avoid damage caused by severe waterlogging in the city.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨 Chennai people decided to park their cars on the bridge to avoid flooding.<br />
<br />
One way to use flyovers. <a href="https://t.co/6xUmi4bJ6C">pic.twitter.com/6xUmi4bJ6C</a></p>
— Indian Tech &amp; Infra (@IndianTechGuide) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianTechGuide/status/1846385578063155325?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin also announced that food will be provided free of cost at government-run low-cost food canteens, called Amma canteens, on Wednesday and Thursday for people affected by the floods in Chennai.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-depression-in-bay-of-bengal-to-impact-chennai-on-thursday-767813">India: Depression in Bay of Bengal to impact Chennai</a></p>

<p>“All the relief work is being carried out in full swing in the areas affected by the northeast monsoon yesterday. People living in low-lying areas are accommodated in relief camps and provided food and other assistance by the Metropolitan Chennai Corporation,” said Stalin in a post on X.</p>

<h2><strong>Cyclone to move closer to Chennai on October 17</strong></h2>

<p>A depression in the southwest Bay of Bengal has intensified into a cyclonic storm and is expected to make landfall near the coast between Puducherry and Nellore on October 17 morning and is likely to cause heavy rainfall in several places of South Coast and Rayalaseema, as per Andhra Pradesh Disaster Management Authority.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is likely to move west-northwestwards and cross north Tamil Nadu-South Andhra Pradesh coasts between Puducherry and Nellore, close to Chennai during the early morning of 17th October, said IMD.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Chennai rain updates: Heavy rains wreaked havoc in Chennai and other parts of Tamil Nadu on Tuesday (Oct 16). The residential neighbourhood of the city was brought to a standstill, including the house of Indian film star Rajnikanth.

Chennai rain updates: Heavy rains wreaked havoc in Chennai and other parts of Tamil Nadu on Tuesday (Oct 16). The residential neighbourhood of the city was brought to a standstill, including the house of Indian film star Rajnikanth. The roads were inundated with knee-deep water, disrupting day-to-day activities. The incessant downpour led to traffic snarls, crippled public transportation services and also led to cancellations of several domestic flights. Several trains were also diverted, some even stopped ahead of Chennai Central Railway Station. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the well-marked low-pressure area has intensified into a depression and is expected to cross the Chennai coast on October 17 morning. Also Read | Mumbai: 3 dead after massive fire breaks out in multi-storey building "Heavy to very heavy rain with extremely heavy rain at one or two places is likely to occur over Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, and Chennai districts," the IMD bulletin stated. Waterlogging was a common sight in several parts of the state, causing floods in many areas of Chennai. #WATCH | Tamil Nadu: Severe waterlogging witnessed in parts of Chennai city after incessant rainfall in the region; visuals from Pattalam area. pic.twitter.com/bMUPUE2jMl — ANI (@ANI) October 16, 2024 × #WATCH | Tamil Nadu: Waterlogging witnessed in parts of Chennai city; visuals from Pattalam area. pic.twitter.com/2MeJd2ApF2 — ANI (@ANI) October 16, 2024 × In a desperate attempt to avoid waterlogging, several commuters park their cars on the bridge. A video went viral, in which several cars were parked on a bridge in Chennai to avoid damage caused by severe waterlogging in the city. 🚨 Chennai people decided to park their cars on the bridge to avoid flooding. One way to use flyovers. pic.twitter.com/6xUmi4bJ6C — Indian Tech & Infra (@IndianTechGuide) October 16, 2024 × Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin also announced that food will be provided free of cost at government-run low-cost food canteens, called Amma canteens, on Wednesday and Thursday for people affected by the floods in Chennai. Also Read | India: Depression in Bay of Bengal to impact Chennai “All the relief work is being carried out in full swing in the areas affected by the northeast monsoon yesterday. People living in low-lying areas are accommodated in relief camps and provided food and other assistance by the Metropolitan Chennai Corporation,” said Stalin in a post on X. Cyclone to move closer to Chennai on October 17 A depression in the southwest Bay of Bengal has intensified into a cyclonic storm and is expected to make landfall near the coast between Puducherry and Nellore on October 17 morning and is likely to cause heavy rainfall in several places of South Coast and Rayalaseema, as per Andhra Pradesh Disaster Management Authority. It is likely to move west-northwestwards and cross north Tamil Nadu-South Andhra Pradesh coasts between Puducherry and Nellore, close to Chennai during the early morning of 17th October, said IMD. (With inputs from agencies)

Chennai rain update: Incessant rains cause severe waterlogging across Chennai | Video

<p><strong>Mumbai:</strong> A massive fire erupted at Riya Palace, located in the Lokhandwala Complex of Andheri West, on the morning of October 16, resulting in the heartbreaking deaths of three individuals. The incident was reported to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) Mumbai Fire Brigade at approximately 8:05 AM.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indigo-flight-bound-for-lucknow-emergency-lands-in-jaipur-after-another-bomb-threat-767743">IndiGo flight bound for Lucknow emergency lands in Jaipur after another bomb threat</a></p>

<h2><strong>Victims identified</strong></h2>

<p>The victims of this devastating fire have been identified as 74-year-old Chandraprakash Soni and Kanta Soni, along with 42-year-old Pelubeta. Following the incident, the Chief Medical Officer at Cooper Hospital confirmed that all three were declared dead upon arrival, leaving the community in shock.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/clever-or-foul-maharashtra-cm-declares-diwali-bonus-for-govt-employees-before-election-dates-announcement-767756">Clever or foul? Maharashtra CM declares Diwali bonus for govt employees before election date announcement</a></p>

<h2><strong>Here's what happened&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>According to the reports, the blaze began in a residential flat on the 10th floor of the 14-storey building. Firefighters responded swiftly, and their efforts managed to bring the flames under control by 8:58 AM. Despite their prompt response and tireless work, three residents were found unresponsive in the flat.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-probing-role-of-others-in-kolkata-rape-and-murder-case-sc-told-767708">CBI probing 'role of others' in Kolkata rape and murder case, SC told</a></p>

<h2><strong>Community mourns loss</strong></h2>

<p>Local residents shared that Chandraprakash Soni was the owner of Avalon, a shipping company situated in the RNA Shopping Complex. In the wake of the fire, his office staff, who had worked with him for 15 to 20 years, gathered at the scene, visibly distressed as they mourned the loss of a man they regarded as a "father figure." Many remembered him fondly, recalling his kindness and dedication to both his work and his employees.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-depression-in-bay-of-bengal-to-impact-chennai-on-thursday-767813">India: Depression in Bay of Bengal to impact Chennai</a></p>

<h2><strong>Investigation underway</strong></h2>

<p>Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire, which remains uncertain at this time. This tragic incident has had a profound impact on all those involved, and more updates are expected in the days ahead.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Mumbai: A massive fire erupted at Riya Palace, located in the Lokhandwala Complex of Andheri West, on the morning of October 16, resulting in the heartbreaking deaths of three individuals.

Mumbai: A massive fire erupted at Riya Palace, located in the Lokhandwala Complex of Andheri West, on the morning of October 16, resulting in the heartbreaking deaths of three individuals. The incident was reported to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) Mumbai Fire Brigade at approximately 8:05 AM. Also read | IndiGo flight bound for Lucknow emergency lands in Jaipur after another bomb threat Victims identified The victims of this devastating fire have been identified as 74-year-old Chandraprakash Soni and Kanta Soni, along with 42-year-old Pelubeta. Following the incident, the Chief Medical Officer at Cooper Hospital confirmed that all three were declared dead upon arrival, leaving the community in shock. Also read | Clever or foul? Maharashtra CM declares Diwali bonus for govt employees before election date announcement Here's what happened According to the reports, the blaze began in a residential flat on the 10th floor of the 14-storey building. Firefighters responded swiftly, and their efforts managed to bring the flames under control by 8:58 AM. Despite their prompt response and tireless work, three residents were found unresponsive in the flat. Also read | CBI probing 'role of others' in Kolkata rape and murder case, SC told Community mourns loss Local residents shared that Chandraprakash Soni was the owner of Avalon, a shipping company situated in the RNA Shopping Complex. In the wake of the fire, his office staff, who had worked with him for 15 to 20 years, gathered at the scene, visibly distressed as they mourned the loss of a man they regarded as a "father figure." Many remembered him fondly, recalling his kindness and dedication to both his work and his employees. Also read | India: Depression in Bay of Bengal to impact Chennai Investigation underway Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire, which remains uncertain at this time. This tragic incident has had a profound impact on all those involved, and more updates are expected in the days ahead. (With inputs from agencies)

Mumbai: Three dead after massive fire breaks out in multi-storey building

<p>National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah, on Wednesday, took oath as the Chief Minister of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.</p>

<p>With this, he became the first CM of the J&amp;K UT which lost its statehood after the reorganisation and the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.</p>

<p>Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha administered the oath of office to Omar Abdullah at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar.</p>

<p>Along with him, five MLAs, including an Independent, took oath as Cabinet Ministers while there was no Congress representation in the new government.</p>

<p>The Independent MLA who took oath as the minister is Satish Sharma. He defeated former Deputy CM and senior Congress leader Tara Chand from the Chhamb Assembly seat in the Jammu district.</p>

<p>The leaders from the INDIA bloc, including Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, AAP leader Sanjay Singh, CPI leader D. Raja and others attended the ceremony.</p>

<p>The National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah was also there. He had declared that his son, Omar Abdullah would be the CM soon after the trends during the counting on October 8 showed his party was leading.</p>

<p>Jammu and Kashmir Congress Chief Tariq Hameed Karra said that the Congress was not joining the ministry at the moment. After failing to get two ministerial berths in the cabinet, the Congress decided to support the NC government from the outside.</p>

<p>After taking the oath, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will chair a meeting of all the administrative secretaries at the Srinagar Civil Secretariat.</p>

<p>It is important to mention that no senior leader of the National Conference has been able to get a berth in the cabinet</p>

<p>Security was enhanced in Srinagar city ahead of the oath-taking ceremony.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah, on Wednesday, took oath as the Chief Minister of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. With this, he became the first CM of the J&K UT which lost its statehood after the reorganisation and the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.

National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah, on Wednesday, took oath as the Chief Minister of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. With this, he became the first CM of the J&K UT which lost its statehood after the reorganisation and the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha administered the oath of office to Omar Abdullah at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar. Along with him, five MLAs, including an Independent, took oath as Cabinet Ministers while there was no Congress representation in the new government. The Independent MLA who took oath as the minister is Satish Sharma. He defeated former Deputy CM and senior Congress leader Tara Chand from the Chhamb Assembly seat in the Jammu district. The leaders from the INDIA bloc, including Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, AAP leader Sanjay Singh, CPI leader D. Raja and others attended the ceremony. The National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah was also there. He had declared that his son, Omar Abdullah would be the CM soon after the trends during the counting on October 8 showed his party was leading. Jammu and Kashmir Congress Chief Tariq Hameed Karra said that the Congress was not joining the ministry at the moment. After failing to get two ministerial berths in the cabinet, the Congress decided to support the NC government from the outside. After taking the oath, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will chair a meeting of all the administrative secretaries at the Srinagar Civil Secretariat. It is important to mention that no senior leader of the National Conference has been able to get a berth in the cabinet Security was enhanced in Srinagar city ahead of the oath-taking ceremony. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India: Omar Abdullah becomes first CM of J&K UT, no seat for ally Congress in cabinet

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidrKy2gWqQyWYj" /></p>

<p>India's Election Commission (EC) will announce the schedule of the assembly elections in the states of Maharashtra and Jharkhand later on Tuesday (Oct 15), the news agency ANI reported.</p>

<p>Officials of the EC will hold a press conference at 3.30 pm IST to announce the schedule of the elections.</p>

<p>The term of the 288-seat assembly in Maharashtra would end on November 26, which means that the elections would have to be held before this date. Meanwhile, in Jharkhand, the term of the 81-seat assembly would end on January 5 next year.</p>

<h2><strong>JMM to contest all seats in Jharkhand assembly polls: CM Soren</strong></h2>

<p>On Monday, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren announced that his party- the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)- would contest all 81 seats in the upcoming assembly elections in the state.</p>

<p>"I participated in the JMM central committee meeting today along with all other workers and executive committee members. We reviewed our election preparedness and we are confident of winning the assembly elections. The JMM-led alliance will contest all the 81 seats," Chief Minister Soren told reporters after attending a central committee meeting of the JMM.</p>

<p>He said unlike the opposition BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party), the JMM-led alliance does not believe in making only announcements as it executed several welfare schemes.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's Election Commission (EC) will announce the schedule of the assembly elections in the states of Maharashtra and Jharkhand later on Tuesday (Oct 15), the news agency ANI reported.

India's Election Commission (EC) will announce the schedule of the assembly elections in the states of Maharashtra and Jharkhand later on Tuesday (Oct 15), the news agency ANI reported. Officials of the EC will hold a press conference at 3.30 pm IST to announce the schedule of the elections. The term of the 288-seat assembly in Maharashtra would end on November 26, which means that the elections would have to be held before this date. Meanwhile, in Jharkhand, the term of the 81-seat assembly would end on January 5 next year. JMM to contest all seats in Jharkhand assembly polls: CM Soren On Monday, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren announced that his party- the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)- would contest all 81 seats in the upcoming assembly elections in the state. "I participated in the JMM central committee meeting today along with all other workers and executive committee members. We reviewed our election preparedness and we are confident of winning the assembly elections. The JMM-led alliance will contest all the 81 seats," Chief Minister Soren told reporters after attending a central committee meeting of the JMM. He said unlike the opposition BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party), the JMM-led alliance does not believe in making only announcements as it executed several welfare schemes. (With inputs from agencies)

India's Election Commission to announce schedule for Maharashtra and Jharkhand assembly polls today

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:15,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:69,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1772}">Considering the extremely heavy rainfall predicted over Chennai and its three adjoining districts on Wednesday (Oct 16), the Tamil Nadu Government has requested that 13 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams be on standby for deployment. Accordingly, the NDRF has readied 13 teams, with 30 personnel each, for immediate deployment.</p>

<div bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:99,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:206,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1856}" class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:116,&quot;y&quot;:110,&quot;w&quot;:505,&quot;h&quot;:184,&quot;abs_x&quot;:149,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1867}" class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:121,&quot;y&quot;:110,&quot;w&quot;:495,&quot;h&quot;:184,&quot;abs_x&quot;:154,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1867}" class="twitter-tweet">
<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:182,&quot;y&quot;:148,&quot;w&quot;:409,&quot;h&quot;:92,&quot;abs_x&quot;:215,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1905}" dir="ltr" lang="en">13 NDRF teams (390 personnel) on standby in <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:497,&quot;y&quot;:148,&quot;w&quot;:52,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:530,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1905}" href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#chennai</a> &amp; adjoining districts, <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:328,&quot;y&quot;:164,&quot;w&quot;:73,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:361,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1921}" href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Puducherry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Puducherry</a> for any eventuality during ongoing <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:333,&quot;y&quot;:179,&quot;w&quot;:88,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:366,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1936}" href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChennaiRains?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChennaiRains</a> <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:426,&quot;y&quot;:179,&quot;w&quot;:68,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:459,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1936}" href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a><br bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:495,&quot;y&quot;:179,&quot;w&quot;:0,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:528,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1936}" />
Each team carries rubber boat, Search&amp; rescue kit, chainsaw, comms equipment, first aid kit, ropes, harnesses etc. <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:518,&quot;y&quot;:210,&quot;w&quot;:68,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:551,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1967}" href="https://twitter.com/NDRFHQ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NDRFHQ</a> <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:271,&quot;y&quot;:225,&quot;w&quot;:63,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:304,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1982}" href="https://twitter.com/04NDRF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@04NDRF</a> <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:338,&quot;y&quot;:225,&quot;w&quot;:164,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:371,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1982}" href="https://t.co/KDRe5zVqQt">pic.twitter.com/KDRe5zVqQt</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:428,&quot;y&quot;:253,&quot;w&quot;:100,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:461,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2010}" href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1846027118531973510?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:710,&quot;y&quot;:100,&quot;w&quot;:20,&quot;h&quot;:20,&quot;abs_x&quot;:743,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1857}" class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:320,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:69,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2077}">For Tuesday (Oct 15)&nbsp;the Tamil Nadu Government has declared a holiday for schools and colleges in these districts. For IT firms, the Government has recommended Work from Home (WFH) from the 15th to the 18th of October, considering the weather system that is brewing in the Bay of Bengal. These recommendations were made following the review meeting held by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Monday.</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:404,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2161}"><strong bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:404,&quot;w&quot;:657,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2161}">Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:404,&quot;w&quot;:576,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2161}" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chennai-rain-alert-holidays-for-schools-colleges-wfh-advised-for-this-week-767434">Chennai rain alert: Holidays for schools and colleges, WFH advised for this week</a></strong></p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:437,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:69,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2194}">According to the observations by the Indian Meteorological Department(IMD), a low-pressure area has formed over the Southeast Bay of Bengal. Over the course of this week, it is likely to become a well-marked low-pressure area and move west-northwestwards towards North Tamil Nadu and South Andhra Pradesh coasts, which puts Chennai city and adjoining districts on track for rainfall.&nbsp;</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:521,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2278}">Further, there is a forecast for extremely heavy rainfall in Chennai and adjoining districts for Wednesday 16th October, on Thursday this could subside to heavy rainfall over the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:571,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:52,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2328}">In Meteorology, a low-pressure area is a region where the atmospheric pressure is lower than the surrounding areas. Low-pressure systems often bring overcast skies, showers, or storms. Strong low-pressure systems can intensify into larger weather events like tropical storms, cyclones, or hurricanes.&nbsp;</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:638,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:52,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2395}">As per the IMD's classification, heavy rainfall amounts to 6.4-11.5cms of downpour in 24 hours, whereas very heavy rainfall amounts to 11.5cms to 20.4cms in 24 hours. In case of extremely heavy rainfall, it is more than 20.4 cm in 24 hours.&nbsp;</p>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:708,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2465}"><strong bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:708,&quot;w&quot;:571,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2465}">NDRF teams on alert; State Govt monitoring situation</strong></h2>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:753,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:69,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2510}">Thirteen teams of the National Disaster Response Force(NDRF), comprising a total of 390 personnel, are on standby at Arakkonam, near Chennai. In addition to this, one team has already been pre-positioned in Chennai city for any immediate requirements. NDRF teams are working in close coordination with the State authorities, to render assistance at the required time and place.</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:837,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2594}"><strong bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:837,&quot;w&quot;:619,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2594}">Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:837,&quot;w&quot;:538,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2594}" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/imd-warns-of-heavy-rainfall-in-southern-states-chennai-prepares-for-impact-767223">IMD warns of heavy rainfall in southern states, Chennai prepares for impact</a></strong></p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:870,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:52,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2627}">Each of these NDRF teams is prepared with rubber boats, tree-cutting chainsaws, communications equipment, ropes and harnesses, first aid kids etc. The NDRF has also set up a round-the-clock control room at 04 Battalion Arakkonam, near Chennai, to closely monitor the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:937,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:52,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2694}">In the review meeting chaired by the Chief Minister, it was ordered that those in flood-prone and vulnerable areas be moved to relief camps, bread, drinking water and other essential relief supplies be stocked at relief camps, and levels of water bodies be constantly monitored.&nbsp;</p>


Considering the extremely heavy rainfall predicted over Chennai and its three adjoining districts on Wednesday (Oct 16), the Tamil Nadu Government has requested that 13 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams be on standby for deployment.

Considering the extremely heavy rainfall predicted over Chennai and its three adjoining districts on Wednesday (Oct 16), the Tamil Nadu Government has requested that 13 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams be on standby for deployment. Accordingly, the NDRF has readied 13 teams, with 30 personnel each, for immediate deployment. 13 NDRF teams (390 personnel) on standby in #chennai & adjoining districts, #Puducherry for any eventuality during ongoing #ChennaiRains #TamilNadu Each team carries rubber boat, Search& rescue kit, chainsaw, comms equipment, first aid kit, ropes, harnesses etc. @NDRFHQ @04NDRF pic.twitter.com/KDRe5zVqQt — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) October 15, 2024 × For Tuesday (Oct 15) the Tamil Nadu Government has declared a holiday for schools and colleges in these districts. For IT firms, the Government has recommended Work from Home (WFH) from the 15th to the 18th of October, considering the weather system that is brewing in the Bay of Bengal. These recommendations were made following the review meeting held by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Monday. Also read | Chennai rain alert: Holidays for schools and colleges, WFH advised for this week According to the observations by the Indian Meteorological Department(IMD), a low-pressure area has formed over the Southeast Bay of Bengal. Over the course of this week, it is likely to become a well-marked low-pressure area and move west-northwestwards towards North Tamil Nadu and South Andhra Pradesh coasts, which puts Chennai city and adjoining districts on track for rainfall. Further, there is a forecast for extremely heavy rainfall in Chennai and adjoining districts for Wednesday 16th October, on Thursday this could subside to heavy rainfall over the region. In Meteorology, a low-pressure area is a region where the atmospheric pressure is lower than the surrounding areas. Low-pressure systems often bring overcast skies, showers, or storms. Strong low-pressure systems can intensify into larger weather events like tropical storms, cyclones, or hurricanes. As per the IMD's classification, heavy rainfall amounts to 6.4-11.5cms of downpour in 24 hours, whereas very heavy rainfall amounts to 11.5cms to 20.4cms in 24 hours. In case of extremely heavy rainfall, it is more than 20.4 cm in 24 hours. NDRF teams on alert; State Govt monitoring situation Thirteen teams of the National Disaster Response Force(NDRF), comprising a total of 390 personnel, are on standby at Arakkonam, near Chennai. In addition to this, one team has already been pre-positioned in Chennai city for any immediate requirements. NDRF teams are working in close coordination with the State authorities, to render assistance at the required time and place. Also read | IMD warns of heavy rainfall in southern states, Chennai prepares for impact Each of these NDRF teams is prepared with rubber boats, tree-cutting chainsaws, communications equipment, ropes and harnesses, first aid kids etc. The NDRF has also set up a round-the-clock control room at 04 Battalion Arakkonam, near Chennai, to closely monitor the situation. In the review meeting chaired by the Chief Minister, it was ordered that those in flood-prone and vulnerable areas be moved to relief camps, bread, drinking water and other essential relief supplies be stocked at relief camps, and levels of water bodies be constantly monitored.

Chennai rains: 13 NDRF teams on standby; WFH advised for this week

The police have confirmed that jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi is believed to be involved in the killing of NCP Leader Baba Siddique. Bishnoi, who is currently incarcerated, is known for his extensive criminal network and has been linked to several high-profile crimes in the past. Watch this report to know all about Lawrence Bishnoi.

Who is Lawrence Bishnoi? Gangster Allegedly Behind NCP Leader Baba Siddique’s Murder

<p>Singapore Armed Forces on Tuesday (Oct 15) scrambled two fighter jets to escort an Air India Express plane away from populated areas following a bomb threat before the aircraft landed safely at Singapore's Changi airport.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;Air India Express plane operating flight IX 684 from Madurai to Singapore had received a bomb threat.</p>

<p>Singapore's Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said Air India Express received an email that there was a bomb on board flight AXB684 that was bound for Singapore.</p>

<p>"Two of our RSAF F-15SGs scrambled and escorted the plane away from populated areas, to finally land safely at Singapore Changi Airport at around 10:04 pm tonight," he said in a series of posts on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">(1/3) Air India Express received an email that there was a bomb on board flight AXB684 that was bound for Singapore. Two of our RSAF F-15SGs scrambled and escorted the plane away from populated areas, to finally land safely at Singapore Changi Airport at around 10:04pm tonight. <a href="https://t.co/tOzo6wgT5E">pic.twitter.com/tOzo6wgT5E</a></p>
— Ng Eng Hen (@Ng_Eng_Hen) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ng_Eng_Hen/status/1846214516461523182?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indigo-flight-bound-for-lucknow-emergency-lands-in-jaipur-after-another-bomb-threat-767743"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;IndiGo flight bound for Lucknow emergency lands in Jaipur after another bomb threat</strong></a></p>

<p>The Ground Based Air Defence (GBAD) systems and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) were also activated. Once on the ground, the plane was handed to the airport police, he said and added that investigations are going on.<br />
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<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>


Singapore Armed Forces on Tuesday (Oct 15) scrambled two fighter jets to escort an Air India Express plane away from populated areas following a bomb threat before the aircraft landed safely at Singapore's Changi airport.

Singapore Armed Forces on Tuesday (Oct 15) scrambled two fighter jets to escort an Air India Express plane away from populated areas following a bomb threat before the aircraft landed safely at Singapore's Changi airport. The Air India Express plane operating flight IX 684 from Madurai to Singapore had received a bomb threat. Singapore's Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said Air India Express received an email that there was a bomb on board flight AXB684 that was bound for Singapore. "Two of our RSAF F-15SGs scrambled and escorted the plane away from populated areas, to finally land safely at Singapore Changi Airport at around 10:04 pm tonight," he said in a series of posts on X. (1/3) Air India Express received an email that there was a bomb on board flight AXB684 that was bound for Singapore. Two of our RSAF F-15SGs scrambled and escorted the plane away from populated areas, to finally land safely at Singapore Changi Airport at around 10:04pm tonight. pic.twitter.com/tOzo6wgT5E — Ng Eng Hen (@Ng_Eng_Hen) October 15, 2024 × Also read | IndiGo flight bound for Lucknow emergency lands in Jaipur after another bomb threat The Ground Based Air Defence (GBAD) systems and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) were also activated. Once on the ground, the plane was handed to the airport police, he said and added that investigations are going on. 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.

Singapore fighter jets escort Air India Express plane after bomb threat

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<p>The evolving weather system in the&nbsp;Bay of Bengal has intensified into a depression and is predicted to cross the coast near the Indian city of&nbsp;Chennai&nbsp;in the early hours of Thursday (Oct 17). A red alert&nbsp;for extremely heavy rainfall (exceeding 20 cm in 24 hours) has been issued for Chennai and adjoining districts for Wednesday (Oct 16). Schools and colleges in Chennai and adjoining districts will remain shut for the second day, Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the weather phenomenon is around 490 km southeast of Chennai and is expected to move north-westward and cross north Tamil Nadu-south Andhra Pradesh coasts between Puducherry and Nellore, close to Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From Monday night and all through Tuesday, the weather system has brought significant rainfall to Chennai and adjoining districts, thereby causing instances of localised inundation. Nearly 18 districts across Tamil Nadu would be receiving rainfall of varying intensity, as per the forecast. Throughout the week, winds would be gusting at an average of 50 kmph along the Tamil Nadu coast, owing to which fishermen have been urged not to venture into the sea, and those at sea have been asked to return ashore.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cyclone-remal-claims-at-least-61-lives-in-india-bangladesh-726645" target="_blank"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Cyclone 'Remal' claims at least 61 lives in India &amp; Bangladesh</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cyclone-remal-claims-at-least-61-lives-in-india-bangladesh-726645/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>NDRF teams on alert; state government&nbsp;monitoring situation</strong></h2>

<p>Around 13 teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), comprising a total of 390 personnel are on standby at Arakkonam, near Chennai.&nbsp;NDRF teams are working in close coordination with the state authorities to render assistance at the required time and place.</p>

<p>Each of these NDRF teams is prepared with rubber boats, tree-cutting chainsaws, communications equipment, ropes and harnesses and first aid kits.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/southwest-monsoon-ends-northeast-monsoon-begins-chennai-on-red-alert-imd-warns-767694"><strong>Also read&nbsp;| India: Southwest Monsoon ends, northeast monsoon begins; Chennai on red alert, IMD warns</strong></a></p>

<p>The NDRF has also set up a round-the-clock control room at 04 Battalion Arakkonam, near Chennai, to closely monitor the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government has recommended&nbsp;work from home (WFH) for&nbsp;IT firms&nbsp;between October&nbsp;15 and 18, considering the evolving weather phenomenon and its impact.</p>


The evolving weather system in the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a depression and is predicted to cross the coast near the Indian city of Chennai in the early hours of Thursday (Oct 17).

The evolving weather system in the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a depression and is predicted to cross the coast near the Indian city of Chennai in the early hours of Thursday (Oct 17). A red alert for extremely heavy rainfall (exceeding 20 cm in 24 hours) has been issued for Chennai and adjoining districts for Wednesday (Oct 16). Schools and colleges in Chennai and adjoining districts will remain shut for the second day, Wednesday. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the weather phenomenon is around 490 km southeast of Chennai and is expected to move north-westward and cross north Tamil Nadu-south Andhra Pradesh coasts between Puducherry and Nellore, close to Chennai. From Monday night and all through Tuesday, the weather system has brought significant rainfall to Chennai and adjoining districts, thereby causing instances of localised inundation. Nearly 18 districts across Tamil Nadu would be receiving rainfall of varying intensity, as per the forecast. Throughout the week, winds would be gusting at an average of 50 kmph along the Tamil Nadu coast, owing to which fishermen have been urged not to venture into the sea, and those at sea have been asked to return ashore. Watch | Cyclone 'Remal' claims at least 61 lives in India & Bangladesh NDRF teams on alert; state government monitoring situation Around 13 teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), comprising a total of 390 personnel are on standby at Arakkonam, near Chennai. NDRF teams are working in close coordination with the state authorities to render assistance at the required time and place. Each of these NDRF teams is prepared with rubber boats, tree-cutting chainsaws, communications equipment, ropes and harnesses and first aid kits. Also read | India: Southwest Monsoon ends, northeast monsoon begins; Chennai on red alert, IMD warns The NDRF has also set up a round-the-clock control room at 04 Battalion Arakkonam, near Chennai, to closely monitor the situation. The government has recommended work from home (WFH) for IT firms between October 15 and 18, considering the evolving weather phenomenon and its impact.

India: Depression in Bay of Bengal to impact Chennai

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<p>Tuesday (Oct 15) marked the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon and simultaneously, the northeast monsoon commenced, said the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). Coinciding with the onset of the northeast monsoon, there is a weather system intensifying in the Bay of Bengal, which has been bringing intense spells of rain over the southern Indian city of Chennai and adjoining districts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The low-pressure area concentrated into a well-marked low-pressure area over the central part of the south Bay of Bengal on Tuesday. It is likely to move northwestwards and intensify into a depression during the next 24 hours, said the IMD. It is likely to continue to move towards north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and south Andhra Pradesh, the IMD cautioned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Owing to this evolving weather system, a red alert for heavy to extremely heavy rainfall has been issued for Chennai and its adjoining districts, for both Tuesday and Wednesday. As per the IMD's classification, heavy rainfall amounts to 6.4-11.5 cm of downpour in 24 hours, whereas very heavy rainfall amounts to 11.5 cm to 20.4 cm in 24 hours. In case of extremely heavy rainfall, it is more than 20.4 cm in 24 hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nearly 18 districts across Tamil Nadu would be receiving rainfall of varying intensity, as per the forecast. Throughout the week, winds would be blowing at an average of 50kmph&nbsp;along the Tamil Nadu coast, owing to which fishermen have been urged not to venture into the sea, and those at sea have been asked to return ashore.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cyclone-remal-claims-at-least-61-lives-in-india-bangladesh-726645"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Cyclone 'Remal' claims at least 61 lives in India &amp; Bangladesh</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>NDRF teams on alert; State government&nbsp;monitoring situation</strong></h2>

<p>Around 13 teams of the&nbsp;National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), comprising a total of 390 personnel are on standby at Arakkonam, near Chennai. NDRF teams are working in close coordination with the state authorities to render assistance at the required time and place.</p>

<p>Each of these NDRF teams is prepared with rubber boats, tree-cutting chainsaws, communications equipment, ropes and harnesses and first aid kits. The NDRF has also set up a round-the-clock control room at 04 Battalion Arakkonam, near Chennai, to closely monitor the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chennai-rains-13-ndrf-teams-on-standby-wfh-advised-for-this-week-767491"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Chennai rains: 13 NDRF teams on standby; WFH advised for this week</strong></a></p>

<p>In the review meeting chaired by the chief minister, it was ordered that those in flood-prone and vulnerable areas be moved to relief camps, bread, drinking water and other essentials&nbsp;be stocked at the&nbsp;camps, and levels of water bodies be constantly monitored.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Tamil Nadu government declared a holiday for schools and colleges in Chennai and adjoining districts for Tuesday. The state government also&nbsp;recommended work from home (WFH) for IT firms&nbsp;from October 15 to 18, considering the weather system that is brewing in the Bay of Bengal.&nbsp;</p>


Tuesday (Oct 15) marked the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon and simultaneously, the northeast monsoon commenced, said the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).

Tuesday (Oct 15) marked the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon and simultaneously, the northeast monsoon commenced, said the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). Coinciding with the onset of the northeast monsoon, there is a weather system intensifying in the Bay of Bengal, which has been bringing intense spells of rain over the southern Indian city of Chennai and adjoining districts. The low-pressure area concentrated into a well-marked low-pressure area over the central part of the south Bay of Bengal on Tuesday. It is likely to move northwestwards and intensify into a depression during the next 24 hours, said the IMD. It is likely to continue to move towards north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and south Andhra Pradesh, the IMD cautioned. Owing to this evolving weather system, a red alert for heavy to extremely heavy rainfall has been issued for Chennai and its adjoining districts, for both Tuesday and Wednesday. As per the IMD's classification, heavy rainfall amounts to 6.4-11.5 cm of downpour in 24 hours, whereas very heavy rainfall amounts to 11.5 cm to 20.4 cm in 24 hours. In case of extremely heavy rainfall, it is more than 20.4 cm in 24 hours. Nearly 18 districts across Tamil Nadu would be receiving rainfall of varying intensity, as per the forecast. Throughout the week, winds would be blowing at an average of 50kmph along the Tamil Nadu coast, owing to which fishermen have been urged not to venture into the sea, and those at sea have been asked to return ashore. Watch | Cyclone 'Remal' claims at least 61 lives in India & Bangladesh × NDRF teams on alert; State government monitoring situation Around 13 teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), comprising a total of 390 personnel are on standby at Arakkonam, near Chennai. NDRF teams are working in close coordination with the state authorities to render assistance at the required time and place. Each of these NDRF teams is prepared with rubber boats, tree-cutting chainsaws, communications equipment, ropes and harnesses and first aid kits. The NDRF has also set up a round-the-clock control room at 04 Battalion Arakkonam, near Chennai, to closely monitor the situation. Also read | Chennai rains: 13 NDRF teams on standby; WFH advised for this week In the review meeting chaired by the chief minister, it was ordered that those in flood-prone and vulnerable areas be moved to relief camps, bread, drinking water and other essentials be stocked at the camps, and levels of water bodies be constantly monitored. The Tamil Nadu government declared a holiday for schools and colleges in Chennai and adjoining districts for Tuesday. The state government also recommended work from home (WFH) for IT firms from October 15 to 18, considering the weather system that is brewing in the Bay of Bengal.

India: Southwest Monsoon ends, northeast monsoon begins; Chennai on red alert, IMD warns

<p>The&nbsp;Ministry of Civil Aviation&nbsp;has called a&nbsp;high-level meeting&nbsp;on Wednesday (Oct 16) after a series of&nbsp;bomb threats&nbsp;received on Monday and Tuesday.</p>

<p>According to the sources, Minister of Civil Aviation&nbsp;Ram Mohan Naidu&nbsp;on Monday held a meeting with the Bureau of Civil Aviation, CISF, and other senior officials in airport security over the&nbsp;bomb threats.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India: Air India Flight Makes Safe Emergency Landing In Trichy After Mid-Air Hydraulic Failure</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-air-india-flight-makes-safe-emergency-landing-in-trichy-after-mid-air-hydraulic-failure-766809/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>Sources in CISF have confirmed that more than 10&nbsp;bomb threats&nbsp;have been received on social media in last 24 hours.</p>

<p>"We have identified and suspended several accounts that were posting threats on social media regarding bombs in&nbsp;airplanes. It has been informed some threats were originated from&nbsp;London&nbsp;and from other countries," said a senior police officer.</p>

<p>The Delhi-Chicago Air India flight, the Jaipur-Bengaluru Air India Express, the Dammam-Lucknow IndiGo flight, the Darbhanga-Mumbai SpiceJet flight, the Siliguri-Bengaluru Akasa Air flight, an Alliance Air Amritsar-Dehradun-Delhi flight and an Air India Express flight from Madurai to Singapore were among those flights disrupted by the threats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the last 24 hours, we have received several&nbsp;bomb threats&nbsp;in many sectors. We are taking up all the calls and also informed concerned police officers regarding the threat to identify the person behind it," said an officer in airport security.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-indias-delhi-chicago-flight-receives-bomb-threat-second-in-a-day-flight-diverted-to-canada-767733"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Air India's Delhi-Chicago flight receives bomb threat, second in a day; flight diverted to Canada</strong></a></p>

<p>A senior officer in airport security said that every threat is important to them and they can ignore it as it is a matter of passengers' safety. "After we receive a threat, we inform airlines and the concerned security officer at the airport for further procedure," the officer said.</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&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


The Ministry of Civil Aviation has called a high-level meeting on Wednesday (Oct 16) after a series of bomb threats received on Monday and Tuesday. According to the sources, Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu on Monday held a meeting with the Bureau of Civil Aviation, CISF, and other senior officials in airport security over the bomb threats.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has called a high-level meeting on Wednesday (Oct 16) after a series of bomb threats received on Monday and Tuesday. According to the sources, Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu on Monday held a meeting with the Bureau of Civil Aviation, CISF, and other senior officials in airport security over the bomb threats. Watch | India: Air India Flight Makes Safe Emergency Landing In Trichy After Mid-Air Hydraulic Failure Sources in CISF have confirmed that more than 10 bomb threats have been received on social media in last 24 hours. "We have identified and suspended several accounts that were posting threats on social media regarding bombs in airplanes. It has been informed some threats were originated from London and from other countries," said a senior police officer. The Delhi-Chicago Air India flight, the Jaipur-Bengaluru Air India Express, the Dammam-Lucknow IndiGo flight, the Darbhanga-Mumbai SpiceJet flight, the Siliguri-Bengaluru Akasa Air flight, an Alliance Air Amritsar-Dehradun-Delhi flight and an Air India Express flight from Madurai to Singapore were among those flights disrupted by the threats. "In the last 24 hours, we have received several bomb threats in many sectors. We are taking up all the calls and also informed concerned police officers regarding the threat to identify the person behind it," said an officer in airport security. Also read | Air India's Delhi-Chicago flight receives bomb threat, second in a day; flight diverted to Canada A senior officer in airport security said that every threat is important to them and they can ignore it as it is a matter of passengers' safety. "After we receive a threat, we inform airlines and the concerned security officer at the airport for further procedure," the officer said. 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.

Indian govt calls high-level meeting after hoax bomb threats affect over 10 flights in last 24 hours

<p>A post going viral on social media has claimed that Ratan Tata's pet dog 'Goa' died three days after the death of the chairman emeritus of one of India's biggest conglomerates, Tata Sons.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rumours stated that Goa, who is a permanent resident at&nbsp;the Tata Group's office at&nbsp;Bombay House, died due to the shock of its owner's death.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Sad news. Tata's pet dog Goa dies after 3 days of his death. That's why they say that Dogs are more faithful to their masters than human beings," read the viral post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the supposed news went viral,&nbsp;Sudhir Kudalkar, a&nbsp;senior inspector in the Mumbai Police stepped up and conducted his investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kudalkar took to his Instagram account after his probe and debunked the fake news, stating that 'Goa' was alive and doing fine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I verified this with Shantanu Naidu, a close friend of Tata Ji, and he confirmed that Goa is doing fine," Kudalkar posted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also shared screenshots of his messages with Shantanu Naidu confirming Goa's good health. The senior police officer also cautioned the netizens to not fall for rumours and misinformation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Please make sure to verify facts before sharing posts," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The stray dog, who had become a beloved companion of Tata during his latter years, was even present at his funeral,&nbsp;following the Parsi tradition of Sagdid.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Ratan Tata: Phenomenal Contributions By India's Widely Celebrated Philanthropist | WION Originals</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ratan Tata's death</strong></h2>

<p>Tata died at the age of 86 last week after he was admitted to the&nbsp;intensive care of the Breach Candy Hospital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is with a profound sense of loss that we bid farewell to Mr Ratan Naval Tata, a truly uncommon leader whose immeasurable contributions have shaped not only the Tata Group but also the very fabric of our nation," N Chandrasekaran, chairman of Tata Group said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/5-star-treatment-to-dogs-when-a-street-ratan-tata-allowed-strays-to-his-famous-mumbais-taj-hotel-766272"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Five-star treatment for dogs! When Ratan Tata allowed strays to his famous Taj Hotel in Mumbai</strong></a></p>

<p>Tata became chairman of the conglomerate in 1991 and ran the group founded by his great-grandfather more than a hundred years ago until 2012.&nbsp;He founded the telecommunications company Tata Teleservices&nbsp;in 1996 and took the IT company Tata Consultancy Services public in 2004.</p>

<p>After stepping down, he was conferred with the title of chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, Tata Industries, Tata Motors, Tata Steel and Tata Chemicals, the company website says.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A post going viral on social media has claimed that Ratan Tata's pet dog 'Goa' died three days after the death of the chairman emeritus of one of India's biggest conglomerates, Tata Sons.

A post going viral on social media has claimed that Ratan Tata's pet dog 'Goa' died three days after the death of the chairman emeritus of one of India's biggest conglomerates, Tata Sons. Rumours stated that Goa, who is a permanent resident at the Tata Group's office at Bombay House, died due to the shock of its owner's death. "Sad news. Tata's pet dog Goa dies after 3 days of his death. That's why they say that Dogs are more faithful to their masters than human beings," read the viral post. As the supposed news went viral, Sudhir Kudalkar, a senior inspector in the Mumbai Police stepped up and conducted his investigation. Kudalkar took to his Instagram account after his probe and debunked the fake news, stating that 'Goa' was alive and doing fine. "I verified this with Shantanu Naidu, a close friend of Tata Ji, and he confirmed that Goa is doing fine," Kudalkar posted. He also shared screenshots of his messages with Shantanu Naidu confirming Goa's good health. The senior police officer also cautioned the netizens to not fall for rumours and misinformation. "Please make sure to verify facts before sharing posts," he added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sudhir Kudalkar (@sudhirkudalkar) × The stray dog, who had become a beloved companion of Tata during his latter years, was even present at his funeral, following the Parsi tradition of Sagdid. Watch | Ratan Tata: Phenomenal Contributions By India's Widely Celebrated Philanthropist | WION Originals × Ratan Tata's death Tata died at the age of 86 last week after he was admitted to the intensive care of the Breach Candy Hospital. "It is with a profound sense of loss that we bid farewell to Mr Ratan Naval Tata, a truly uncommon leader whose immeasurable contributions have shaped not only the Tata Group but also the very fabric of our nation," N Chandrasekaran, chairman of Tata Group said in a statement. Also read | Five-star treatment for dogs! When Ratan Tata allowed strays to his famous Taj Hotel in Mumbai Tata became chairman of the conglomerate in 1991 and ran the group founded by his great-grandfather more than a hundred years ago until 2012. He founded the telecommunications company Tata Teleservices in 1996 and took the IT company Tata Consultancy Services public in 2004. After stepping down, he was conferred with the title of chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, Tata Industries, Tata Motors, Tata Steel and Tata Chemicals, the company website says. (With inputs from agencies)

Fact check: Did Ratan Tata's pet dog 'Goa' die three days after his death?

<p>External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Tuesday for the 23rd meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government. Later in the evening, Jaishankar could be seen exchanging pleasantries with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ahead of the dinner with delegates.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 23rd SCO CHG kicked off Wednesday (OCt 15) in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, with top-notch security measures in place. Further, the Ministry of External Affairs said that the meeting will focus on the trade and economic agenda of the organisation.</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> | Islamabad: Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif welcomes EAM Dr S Jaishankar and other SCO Council Heads of Government, to a dinner hosted by him.<br />
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EAM is in Pakistan to participate in the 23rd Meeting of SCO Council of Heads of Government.<br />
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(Video Source: PTV) <a href="https://t.co/BHtUhuLm9e">pic.twitter.com/BHtUhuLm9e</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1846203549572632903?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"The 23rd Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) will be held on 16 October 2024 in Islamabad under the chairmanship of Pakistan. The SCO CHG meeting is held annually and focuses on the trade and economic agenda of the organisation," the MEA stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar will lead the Indian delegation at the 23rd Meeting of the SCO.</p>

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— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1846150619486163253?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"India remains actively engaged in the SCO format, including various mechanisms and initiatives within the SCO framework," the release said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omar-abdullah-to-take-oath-as-jk-cm-security-beefed-up-as-india-alliances-key-leaders-likely-to-attend-767675">Omar Abdullah to take oath as J&amp;K CM; security beefed up as India Alliance's key leaders likely to attend</a></strong></p>

<p>The EAM had earlier said that he will not be going to Islamabad to discuss "India-Pakistan relations," but his visit is all about the multilateral event SCO Summit 2024. Jaishankar had also emphasised that he is travelling to Pakistan only to be a "good member of the SCO."</p>

<p>With the arrival of foreign top officials, the security agencies are determined to prevent any disruptions and have amped up security in Islamabad.<br />
<br />
To ensure the safety and security of the 23rd SCO summit in Islamabad, the Pakistan Army has been deployed to safeguard the event, key government buildings, and the Red Zone area.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/southwest-monsoon-ends-northeast-monsoon-begins-chennai-on-red-alert-imd-warns-767694">India: Southwest Monsoon ends, northeast monsoon begins; Chennai on red alert, IMD warns</a></strong></p>

<p>Additionally, rangers have been stationed throughout the capital.<br />
<br />
As a precautionary measure, numerous businesses have been temporarily shut down to minimise security risks in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Key routes have also been closed.</p>

<p>Notably, the government has deployed over 10,000 police and paramilitary personnel for the security of about 900 delegates set to arrive for the event.</p>

<p>The delegates will stay at different places in the capital located inside the 'Red Zone' or in the vicinity, as 14 locations in the capital have been arranged for their accommodation, Dawn reported.</p>

<p>A motorcade of 124 vehicles has been arranged to ensure transportation for guests. This fleet will be divided into two groups: 84 vehicles will escort the heads of states, while 40 vehicles will cater to other delegates. With all delegations set to arrive, a packed schedule awaits on Wednesday.</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>


External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Tuesday for the 23rd meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Tuesday for the 23rd meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government. Later in the evening, Jaishankar could be seen exchanging pleasantries with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ahead of the dinner with delegates. The 23rd SCO CHG kicked off Wednesday (OCt 15) in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, with top-notch security measures in place. Further, the Ministry of External Affairs said that the meeting will focus on the trade and economic agenda of the organisation. #WATCH | Islamabad: Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif welcomes EAM Dr S Jaishankar and other SCO Council Heads of Government, to a dinner hosted by him. EAM is in Pakistan to participate in the 23rd Meeting of SCO Council of Heads of Government. (Video Source: PTV) pic.twitter.com/BHtUhuLm9e — ANI (@ANI) October 15, 2024 × "The 23rd Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) will be held on 16 October 2024 in Islamabad under the chairmanship of Pakistan. The SCO CHG meeting is held annually and focuses on the trade and economic agenda of the organisation," the MEA stated. Jaishankar will lead the Indian delegation at the 23rd Meeting of the SCO. Landed in Islamabad to take part in SCO Council of Heads of Government Meeting. pic.twitter.com/PQ4IFPZtlp — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 15, 2024 × "India remains actively engaged in the SCO format, including various mechanisms and initiatives within the SCO framework," the release said. Also Read | Omar Abdullah to take oath as J&K CM; security beefed up as India Alliance's key leaders likely to attend The EAM had earlier said that he will not be going to Islamabad to discuss "India-Pakistan relations," but his visit is all about the multilateral event SCO Summit 2024. Jaishankar had also emphasised that he is travelling to Pakistan only to be a "good member of the SCO." With the arrival of foreign top officials, the security agencies are determined to prevent any disruptions and have amped up security in Islamabad. To ensure the safety and security of the 23rd SCO summit in Islamabad, the Pakistan Army has been deployed to safeguard the event, key government buildings, and the Red Zone area. Also Read | India: Southwest Monsoon ends, northeast monsoon begins; Chennai on red alert, IMD warns Additionally, rangers have been stationed throughout the capital. As a precautionary measure, numerous businesses have been temporarily shut down to minimise security risks in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Key routes have also been closed. Notably, the government has deployed over 10,000 police and paramilitary personnel for the security of about 900 delegates set to arrive for the event. The delegates will stay at different places in the capital located inside the 'Red Zone' or in the vicinity, as 14 locations in the capital have been arranged for their accommodation, Dawn reported. A motorcade of 124 vehicles has been arranged to ensure transportation for guests. This fleet will be divided into two groups: 84 vehicles will escort the heads of states, while 40 vehicles will cater to other delegates. With all delegations set to arrive, a packed schedule awaits on Wednesday. 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.

SCO Summit: EAM S Jaishankar exchanges greetings with Pakistan PM Sharif

<p>Minutes before the Election Commission of India (ECI) declared the dates of Assembly elections in Maharashtra on Tuesday (Oct 15), Chief Minister&nbsp;Eknath Shinde announced a Diwali bonus for government employees, kindergarten teachers and ASHA workers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shinde said all employees of the civic body,&nbsp;Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), will receive a bonus of Rs 28,000 ($333). Meanwhile, the state kindergarten teachers and ASHA workers would receive Rs 3,000 more than what they received last year. Notably,&nbsp;on November 8 last year, Shinde had announced a Rs 26,000 bonus for the employees.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"After the discussion between the Chief Minister and Municipal Corporation Commissioner, for Diwali – 2024, it has been announced to give the following Gratuity Grants to Municipal Corporation Officers/Employees,” a press statement by BMC said.</p>

<p>The announcement was cleverly planned as the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) comes into force immediately once election dates are declared and remains in force till the results are announced.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, MCC&nbsp;is a set of guidelines by the ECI that spells out how political parties and candidates must conduct themselves during the election campaign and polling.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Election Commission Of India Announces Dates For Maharashtra and Jharkhand Polls</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-election-commission-of-india-announces-dates-for-maharashtra-and-jharkhand-polls-767706/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Maharashtra election dates</strong></h2>

<p>Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar during a media briefing on Tuesday announced that the western Indian state would go to polls in a single phase on November 20, with the results set to be announced on November 23.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The last date for filing nominations is October 29 while the candidates can withdraw their names&nbsp;till November 4.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/poll-body-eci-dismisses-congress-claims-of-evm-tampering-in-haryana-elections-says-cant-be-hacked-767748"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Poll body ECI dismisses Congress claims of EVM tampering in Haryana elections, says 'can't be hacked'</strong></a></p>

<p>The voters will be casting their ballot for candidates on 288 Assembly seats. The majority mark is 145 with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) currently having 103 MLAs in the Vidhan Sabha. The saffron party is in coalition with Shinde's Shiv Sena&nbsp;which has 40 MLAss and the Nationalist Congress Party (Ajit Pawar) which has 43 legislators.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The opposition alliance in the state is called the Mahavikas Aghadi (MVA) and comprises Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress, and NCP (Sharad Pawar).</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Minutes before the Election Commission of India (ECI) declared the dates of Assembly elections in Maharashtra on Tuesday (Oct 15), Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced a Diwali bonus for government employees, kindergarten teachers and ASHA workers.

Minutes before the Election Commission of India (ECI) declared the dates of Assembly elections in Maharashtra on Tuesday (Oct 15), Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced a Diwali bonus for government employees, kindergarten teachers and ASHA workers. Shinde said all employees of the civic body, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), will receive a bonus of Rs 28,000 ($333). Meanwhile, the state kindergarten teachers and ASHA workers would receive Rs 3,000 more than what they received last year. Notably, on November 8 last year, Shinde had announced a Rs 26,000 bonus for the employees. "After the discussion between the Chief Minister and Municipal Corporation Commissioner, for Diwali – 2024, it has been announced to give the following Gratuity Grants to Municipal Corporation Officers/Employees,” a press statement by BMC said. The announcement was cleverly planned as the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) comes into force immediately once election dates are declared and remains in force till the results are announced. Notably, MCC is a set of guidelines by the ECI that spells out how political parties and candidates must conduct themselves during the election campaign and polling. Watch | Election Commission Of India Announces Dates For Maharashtra and Jharkhand Polls Maharashtra election dates Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar during a media briefing on Tuesday announced that the western Indian state would go to polls in a single phase on November 20, with the results set to be announced on November 23. The last date for filing nominations is October 29 while the candidates can withdraw their names till November 4. Also read | Poll body ECI dismisses Congress claims of EVM tampering in Haryana elections, says 'can't be hacked' The voters will be casting their ballot for candidates on 288 Assembly seats. The majority mark is 145 with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) currently having 103 MLAs in the Vidhan Sabha. The saffron party is in coalition with Shinde's Shiv Sena which has 40 MLAss and the Nationalist Congress Party (Ajit Pawar) which has 43 legislators. The opposition alliance in the state is called the Mahavikas Aghadi (MVA) and comprises Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress, and NCP (Sharad Pawar). (With inputs from agencies)

Clever or foul? Maharashtra CM declares Diwali bonus for govt employees before election date announcement

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