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The voting for the Haryana Assembly election began on Saturday (October 5) across all 90 constituencies of the state. Polling began at 7 am and will end at 6 pm.

Haryana Assembly Election 2024: 23% Voter Turnout Recorded Till 11 AM

India will receive the final two squadrons of the S-400 air defense missile systems by 2025, delayed due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, as confirmed by Indian Air Force Chief ACM AP Singh.

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Minister from the Indian state of Telangana, Konda Surekha has triggered a row with her remarks on the Naga Chaitanya-Samantha divorce, saying that senior Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader KT Rama Rao may be responsible for his father K Chandrashekar Rao's alleged disappearance and not being seen in public for a while.

Surekha was speaking in the former Telangana chief minister's constituency of Gajwel on Thursday (Oct 3) and urged her party members to file a missing case for K Chandrashekar Rao, who is popularly known as KCR.&nbsp;

This comes a day after the Rao family released photos in which KCR can be seen attending the birthday celebrations of his wife Shobha.&nbsp;

Earlier on Wednesday, Surekha sparked controversy by linking KT Rama Rao, or KTR, with the divorce of actors Naga Chaitanya and Samantha Ruth Prabhu.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Lok Sabha Elections: Will Telangana be India's model state? | Decoding Telangana's economy

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"It is KT Rama Rao because of whom Samantha's divorce happened. He was a minister at the time and used to tap the phones of the actresses to find out their weaknesses and use them for blackmail... He used to make them drug addicts, everyone knows this, everybody is aware," she said.&nbsp;

Her remarks were criticised by Telugu actors.&nbsp;

Veteran actor Chiranjeevi said, "It is a shame that celebs and members of the film fraternity become soft targets as they provide instant reach and attention. We as the Film Industry stand united in opposing such vicious verbal assaults on our members."

Samantha Ruth Prabhu asked the minister to leave her out of political battles and respect people's privacy.

"My divorce is a personal matter and I request that you refrain from speculating about it... To clarify: my divorce was mutual consent and amicable, with no political conspiracy involved," the actress&nbsp;said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-how-samantha-and-nagas-divorce-became-a-political-saga--explained-764230">Read more:&nbsp;Explained | How Samantha and Naga Chaitanya's divorce became a political saga</a>

Surekha later apologised to Prabhu and Naga Chaitanya but&nbsp;refused to withdraw her allegations against KTR, demanding his apology.&nbsp;

"I spoke about a family. It was an unexpected slip of the tongue on my part. When I saw their tweets, I felt bad. I felt bad that I hurt someone. So I unconditionally withdraw my statement. But, in KTR's case, there is no going back. I demand his apology," the minister said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Minister from the Indian state of Telangana, Konda Surekha has triggered a row with her remarks on the Naga Chaitanya-Samantha divorce, saying that senior Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader KT Rama Rao may be responsible for his father K Chandrashekar Rao's alleged disappearance and not being seen in public for a while.

Minister from the Indian state of Telangana, Konda Surekha has triggered a row with her remarks on the Naga Chaitanya-Samantha divorce, saying that senior Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader KT Rama Rao may be responsible for his father K Chandrashekar Rao's alleged disappearance and not being seen in public for a while. Surekha was speaking in the former Telangana chief minister's constituency of Gajwel on Thursday (Oct 3) and urged her party members to file a missing case for K Chandrashekar Rao, who is popularly known as KCR. This comes a day after the Rao family released photos in which KCR can be seen attending the birthday celebrations of his wife Shobha. Earlier on Wednesday, Surekha sparked controversy by linking KT Rama Rao, or KTR, with the divorce of actors Naga Chaitanya and Samantha Ruth Prabhu. Watch | Lok Sabha Elections: Will Telangana be India's model state? | Decoding Telangana's economy × "It is KT Rama Rao because of whom Samantha's divorce happened. He was a minister at the time and used to tap the phones of the actresses to find out their weaknesses and use them for blackmail... He used to make them drug addicts, everyone knows this, everybody is aware," she said. Her remarks were criticised by Telugu actors. Veteran actor Chiranjeevi said, "It is a shame that celebs and members of the film fraternity become soft targets as they provide instant reach and attention. We as the Film Industry stand united in opposing such vicious verbal assaults on our members." Samantha Ruth Prabhu asked the minister to leave her out of political battles and respect people's privacy. "My divorce is a personal matter and I request that you refrain from speculating about it... To clarify: my divorce was mutual consent and amicable, with no political conspiracy involved," the actress said. Read more: Explained | How Samantha and Naga Chaitanya's divorce became a political saga Surekha later apologised to Prabhu and Naga Chaitanya but refused to withdraw her allegations against KTR, demanding his apology. "I spoke about a family. It was an unexpected slip of the tongue on my part. When I saw their tweets, I felt bad. I felt bad that I hurt someone. So I unconditionally withdraw my statement. But, in KTR's case, there is no going back. I demand his apology," the minister said. (With inputs from agencies)

Telangana minister Konda Surekha alleges KTR responsible for his father KCR's disappearance

At least 28&nbsp;suspected Maoists were killed in a clash with security forces in India's Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur district on Friday (Oct 4), according to the chief minister of the Indian state.&nbsp;

Media reports citing the&nbsp;Bastar police said that the encounter began around 1:00 pm (local time)&nbsp;in the Abujhmad forest, located on the Narayanpur-Dantewada border, during an anti-Naxal operation. A joint team of security personnel including the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and the Special Task Force (STF) carried out the encounter.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/local-recruitment-in-kashmir-terror-groups-hits-zero-majority-of-active-militants-now-foreign-764487">India: Local recruitment of terror groups in Kashmir hits zero; majority of active militants now foreign</a>

This operation marks the biggest success for the security forces since the April 16 incident in Kanker district, where 29 Maoists were killed. The police, in a statement issued at noon, said that they recovered weapons from the site, including an AK-47 and a self-loading rifle (SLR).

Acting on intelligence about a heavy Maoist presence, security teams were dispatched to several villages under the Orcha and Barsur police stations, including Govel, Nendur, and Thulthuli, as per reports. Combing operations were carried out in these areas.

"There are reports of 28 Naxalites being killed in an encounter between security forces and Naxalites in the border area of ​​Narayanpur-Dantewada district," said the&nbsp;Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh,&nbsp;Vishnu Deo Sai, in a post on X.&nbsp;

He also went on to praise the security forces for&nbsp;the successful operation and said that his government aims to "eliminate"&nbsp;Naxalism from the state.&nbsp;

“The encounter is still going on. Till now 30 Maoists have been killed and figures can increase in the night as the encounter is still in progress,” said Dantewada’s Superintendent of Police, Gaurav Rai, as reported by Hindustan Times.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eam-jaishankar-to-visit-pakistan-to-attend-sco-summit-in-october-764498">India's EAM Jaishankar to visit Pakistan to attend SCO Summit in October</a>

“Details of the exact number of weapons and ammunition are yet to be ascertained. On Saturday, the identification process of the deceased Maoists will be done,” the SP added.

Abujhmad, which spans both Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh, is also known as the 'unknown hill,' as it has not been surveyed since British times. This dense 6,000 sq km forest is a stronghold for Maoist activities, and several top CPI (Maoist) leaders are believed to be hiding there.

With this operation, the total number of Maoists killed by security forces in the Bastar region this year&nbsp;has risen to 194.

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 28 suspected Maoists were killed in a clash with security forces in India's Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur district on Friday (Oct 4), according to the chief minister of the Indian state.

At least 28 suspected Maoists were killed in a clash with security forces in India's Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur district on Friday (Oct 4), according to the chief minister of the Indian state. Media reports citing the Bastar police said that the encounter began around 1:00 pm (local time) in the Abujhmad forest, located on the Narayanpur-Dantewada border, during an anti-Naxal operation. A joint team of security personnel including the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and the Special Task Force (STF) carried out the encounter. Also Read | India: Local recruitment of terror groups in Kashmir hits zero; majority of active militants now foreign This operation marks the biggest success for the security forces since the April 16 incident in Kanker district, where 29 Maoists were killed. The police, in a statement issued at noon, said that they recovered weapons from the site, including an AK-47 and a self-loading rifle (SLR). Acting on intelligence about a heavy Maoist presence, security teams were dispatched to several villages under the Orcha and Barsur police stations, including Govel, Nendur, and Thulthuli, as per reports. Combing operations were carried out in these areas. "There are reports of 28 Naxalites being killed in an encounter between security forces and Naxalites in the border area of Narayanpur-Dantewada district," said the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Vishnu Deo Sai, in a post on X. He also went on to praise the security forces for the successful operation and said that his government aims to "eliminate" Naxalism from the state. “The encounter is still going on. Till now 30 Maoists have been killed and figures can increase in the night as the encounter is still in progress,” said Dantewada’s Superintendent of Police, Gaurav Rai, as reported by Hindustan Times. Also read: India's EAM Jaishankar to visit Pakistan to attend SCO Summit in October “Details of the exact number of weapons and ammunition are yet to be ascertained. On Saturday, the identification process of the deceased Maoists will be done,” the SP added. Abujhmad, which spans both Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh, is also known as the 'unknown hill,' as it has not been surveyed since British times. This dense 6,000 sq km forest is a stronghold for Maoist activities, and several top CPI (Maoist) leaders are believed to be hiding there. With this operation, the total number of Maoists killed by security forces in the Bastar region this year has risen to 194. (With inputs from agencies)

India: 28 Maoists killed amid anti-Naxal operation in Chhattisgarh's Abujhmad forest

The Indian government played a quiet but crucial role in the background of the Chagos archipelago agreement between the United Kingdom (UK) and Mauritius, the news agency ANI reported on Thursday (Oct 3) citing sources.

The Indian government played a quiet but crucial role in the background of the Chagos archipelago agreement between the United Kingdom (UK) and Mauritius, the news agency ANI reported on Thursday (Oct 3) citing sources. India firmly backed the principled Mauritian position, supporting its stance on the need to do away with the last vestiges of decolonisation. However, it also encourages both countries to negotiate with an open mind and to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes. One of the sources told ANI that New Delhi believed that the final outcome was a win for all sides involved and would reinforce long-term security in the Indian Ocean region. Will handover sovereignty of Chagos Islands to Mauritius: UK New Delhi's remarks came after the UK announced that it would hand over sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, paving the way for displaced islanders to return. Also read | 'Historic': UK transfers sovereignty of Chagos Islands to Mauritius However, London maintained its right to use the military base on Diego Garcia. In a joint statement, the UK and Mauritius said, "The treaty will address wrongs of the past and demonstrate the commitment of both parties to support the welfare of Chagossians. Mauritius will now be free to implement a programme of resettlement on the islands of the Chagos Archipelago, other than Diego Garcia, and the UK will capitalise a new trust fund, as well as separately provide other support, for the benefit of Chagossians." Notably, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) had previously spoken for the UK to cede the island territory back to Mauritius in 2019. US reacts to agreement The UK had controlled the region since 1814 and had detached the Chagos Islands in 1965 from Mauritius to create the British Indian Ocean Territory. In the early 1970s, the UK evicted almost 2,000 residents to Mauritius and Seychelles to make way for an airbase on the largest island, Diego Garcia, which it had leased to the United States (US) in 1966. On Thursday, US President Joe Biden praised the agreement, calling it a "historic settlement" that resolved the long-standing sovereignty dispute between the UK and Mauritius over the Chagos Islands. “It is a clear demonstration that through diplomacy and partnership, countries can overcome long-standing historical challenges to reach peaceful and mutually beneficial outcomes,” President Biden said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

UK-Mauritius Chagos archipelago agreement: India played quiet but crucial role in deal, says report

High drama unfolded at Mantralaya, the state secretariat in south Mumbai Friday (Oct 4)&nbsp;after some tribal leaders, including Maharashtra Assembly Deputy Speaker Narhari Zirwal, jumped onto the safety net installed there over the tribal quota issue, officials said.

Nobody was injured in the incident, they said. The protesters included two MLAs and an MP from the ruling Mahayuti alliance in the state.

NCP legislators Zirwal and Kiran Lahamate and BJP’s tribal MP Hemant Savara were among those who jumped from the third floor onto the safety net, that was installed in 2018 after a spate of suicide attempts at the secretariat.

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VIDEO | Maharashtra Assembly Deputy Speaker Narhari Sitaram Zirwal jumped from the third floor of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mantralaya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mantralaya</a> building. He was saved by the safety net. Zirwal drastic action came amidst ongoing protest against the ST (Scheduled Tribe) reservation demanded by the Dhangar… <a href="https://t.co/AofmgIwbz3">pic.twitter.com/AofmgIwbz3</a>
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After police personnel removed these leaders from the net, the tribal representatives then gathered in the ground floor passage and began a sit-in claiming that Chief Minister Eknath Shinde was not meeting them to discuss the quota issue.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eam-jaishankar-to-visit-pakistan-to-attend-sco-summit-in-october-764498">India's EAM Jaishankar to visit Pakistan to attend SCO Summit in October</a>

“I am an Adivasi first and then an MLA and a deputy speaker,” Zirwal told reporters when asked what led him to resort to such a protest. “CM Shinde should meet the protesters,” he added.

BJP MLC Gopichand Padalkar said Zirwal holds a constitutional post and there is no need to take such an extreme step.

Zirwal said the state government should offer protection to students who have been protesting for a fortnight against the halt to recruitment under the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA) in Maharashtra.

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.

High drama unfolded at Mantralaya, the state secretariat in south Mumbai Friday (Oct 4) after some tribal leaders, including Maharashtra Assembly Deputy Speaker Narhari Zirwal, jumped onto the safety net installed there over the tribal quota issue, officials said.

High drama unfolded at Mantralaya, the state secretariat in south Mumbai Friday (Oct 4) after some tribal leaders, including Maharashtra Assembly Deputy Speaker Narhari Zirwal, jumped onto the safety net installed there over the tribal quota issue, officials said. Nobody was injured in the incident, they said. The protesters included two MLAs and an MP from the ruling Mahayuti alliance in the state. NCP legislators Zirwal and Kiran Lahamate and BJP’s tribal MP Hemant Savara were among those who jumped from the third floor onto the safety net, that was installed in 2018 after a spate of suicide attempts at the secretariat. VIDEO | Maharashtra Assembly Deputy Speaker Narhari Sitaram Zirwal jumped from the third floor of #Mantralaya building. He was saved by the safety net. Zirwal drastic action came amidst ongoing protest against the ST (Scheduled Tribe) reservation demanded by the Dhangar… pic.twitter.com/AofmgIwbz3 — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 4, 2024 × After police personnel removed these leaders from the net, the tribal representatives then gathered in the ground floor passage and began a sit-in claiming that Chief Minister Eknath Shinde was not meeting them to discuss the quota issue. Also read: India's EAM Jaishankar to visit Pakistan to attend SCO Summit in October “I am an Adivasi first and then an MLA and a deputy speaker,” Zirwal told reporters when asked what led him to resort to such a protest. “CM Shinde should meet the protesters,” he added. BJP MLC Gopichand Padalkar said Zirwal holds a constitutional post and there is no need to take such an extreme step. Zirwal said the state government should offer protection to students who have been protesting for a fortnight against the halt to recruitment under the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA) in Maharashtra. 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.

Maharashtra deputy speaker jumps onto safety net during tribal quota protest at Mantralaya

A government school teacher in Agra died due to cardiac arrest after she allegedly got a call from cyber fraudsters that her daughter was caught in a sex scandal, her family claimed on Thursday.

On September 30, the fraudsters allegedly threatened the teacher and demanded Rs 1,00,000 ($1,190)&nbsp;to not disclose the matter, the family further said.

Talking to PTI, Deepanshu Rajput, the deceased's son said, "Mother Malti Verma (58) was a government teacher at a Junior High School in Achhnera in Agra. On September 30, she got a WhatsApp call at 12 pm in which they said that her daughter was caught in a sex scandal and began threatening her for the future consequences of revealing her daughter's identity."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyber-slavery-thousands-of-indians-are-trapped-and-tens-of-thousands-have-gone-missing-in-south-asia-763178">Also read:&nbsp;Cyber slavery: Thousands of Indians are trapped and tens of thousands have gone missing in Southeast Asia</a>

Rajput added that the caller posed as a police inspector.

"After that, she talked to me over the phone and informed me about the call. But when I checked the phone number, I told my mother that it was a fraud call from cyber criminals," he added.

"After that, I also talked to my sister and found everything normal. I asked my mother not to worry because she was a victim of cyber fraud, but she could not control her tension, and her health deteriorated after that call," he added.

Watch |&nbsp;‘Cyber Crime Is The New Geopolitical Weapon:’ Ex-Foreign Affairs Secretary Shyam Saran

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"As she returned home after school, she also complained of chest pain and anxiety. When her health began deteriorating, we took her to a hospital, where doctors declared her dead due to cardiac arrest," he said.&nbsp;

Anandveer Singh, Jagdishpura police station in-charge, told PTI, "We have received a complaint in this case from the family. Action will be taken accordingly."

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.

A government school teacher in Agra died due to cardiac arrest after she allegedly got a call from cyber fraudsters that her daughter was caught in a sex scandal, her family claimed on Thursday.

A government school teacher in Agra died due to cardiac arrest after she allegedly got a call from cyber fraudsters that her daughter was caught in a sex scandal, her family claimed on Thursday. On September 30, the fraudsters allegedly threatened the teacher and demanded Rs 1,00,000 ($1,190) to not disclose the matter, the family further said. Talking to PTI, Deepanshu Rajput, the deceased's son said, "Mother Malti Verma (58) was a government teacher at a Junior High School in Achhnera in Agra. On September 30, she got a WhatsApp call at 12 pm in which they said that her daughter was caught in a sex scandal and began threatening her for the future consequences of revealing her daughter's identity." Also read: Cyber slavery: Thousands of Indians are trapped and tens of thousands have gone missing in Southeast Asia Rajput added that the caller posed as a police inspector. "After that, she talked to me over the phone and informed me about the call. But when I checked the phone number, I told my mother that it was a fraud call from cyber criminals," he added. "After that, I also talked to my sister and found everything normal. I asked my mother not to worry because she was a victim of cyber fraud, but she could not control her tension, and her health deteriorated after that call," he added. Watch | ‘Cyber Crime Is The New Geopolitical Weapon:’ Ex-Foreign Affairs Secretary Shyam Saran × "As she returned home after school, she also complained of chest pain and anxiety. When her health began deteriorating, we took her to a hospital, where doctors declared her dead due to cardiac arrest," he said. Anandveer Singh, Jagdishpura police station in-charge, told PTI, "We have received a complaint in this case from the family. Action will be taken accordingly." 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 teacher gets hoax call about daughter's sex scandal, dies of cardiac arrest

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the "involvement" of a prominent Congress leader Tushar Goel in the Rs 5,600 crore drug bust in north India is "extremely dangerous and shameful".

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the "involvement" of a prominent Congress leader Tushar Goel in the Rs 5,600 crore drug bust in north India is "extremely dangerous and shameful". Shah also said that everyone has seen the plight of the youth of Punjab, Haryana and the entire north India due to drugs during the Congress rule. "While on one hand the Modi government is adopting a zero-tolerance policy for a 'drug-free India', the involvement of a prominent Congress leader in the Rs 5,600 crore drug consignment seized from north India is extremely dangerous and shameful," the minister wrote on X in Hindi. He said that while the Modi government is taking the youth towards sports, education and innovation, the "Congress wants to take them into the dark world of drugs". Also Read: India's EAM Jaishankar to visit Pakistan to attend SCO Summit in October "Our government is determined to make India a 'drug-free country' by destroying the entire drug network, without looking at the political position or stature of the drug dealers," he added. In one of Delhi's biggest drug busts, police seized over 560 kilograms of cocaine and 40 kilograms of hydroponic marijuana estimated to be worth around Rs 5,620 crore earlier this week. Also Read: Teen kills Delhi doctor, brags on social media: 'Finally committed murder in 2024' The Indian Youth Congress (IYC) said in a statement that Tushar Goel was expelled from the organisation on October 17, 2022, for anti-party activities soon after BJP spokesperson and MP Sudhanshu Trivedi charged the opposition party with having links with drug dealers. 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.

Delhi drug bust: Amit Shah accuses Congress of 'leading youth to drugs'

India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar will be travelling to Pakistan to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting on October 15-16, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Friday (Oct 4). This will mark the first visit by an&nbsp;Indian foreign&nbsp;minister&nbsp;to Pakistan in nearly a decade.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Federal government in Pakistan has decided to deploy rangers in Islamabad ahead of the summit, as part of security measures.&nbsp;

Moreover, the paramilitary rangers will be deployed in Islamabad till the summit concludes, according to&nbsp;local media in Pakistan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pm-modi-to-travel-to-pakistan-islamabad-formally-invites-indian-leader-for-sco-summit-754370">Also read:&nbsp;PM Modi to travel to Pakistan? Islamabad formally invites Indian leader for SCO summit</a>

The SCO comprises India, China, Russia, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. It is an influential economic and security bloc that has emerged as one of the largest trans-regional international organisations.&nbsp;

Pakistan holds the rotating chairmanship of the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) and will be hosting the two-day in-person SCO meeting in October.&nbsp;

Pakistan invited India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the SCO Summit in August.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;SCO Summit to focus on joint investment fund, PM Modi not likely to attend summit

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Meanwhile, India hosted the SCO Summit last year virtually, which was attended by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif through a video link.&nbsp;

The SCO Council of Heads of Government level is the second-highest body in the grouping. Since 2017, India has been represented at the level of EAM or defence minister.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar will be travelling to Pakistan to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting on October 15-16, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Friday (Oct 4).

India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar will be travelling to Pakistan to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting on October 15-16, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Friday (Oct 4). This will mark the first visit by an Indian foreign minister to Pakistan in nearly a decade. The Federal government in Pakistan has decided to deploy rangers in Islamabad ahead of the summit, as part of security measures. Moreover, the paramilitary rangers will be deployed in Islamabad till the summit concludes, according to local media in Pakistan. Also read: PM Modi to travel to Pakistan? Islamabad formally invites Indian leader for SCO summit The SCO comprises India, China, Russia, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. It is an influential economic and security bloc that has emerged as one of the largest trans-regional international organisations. Pakistan holds the rotating chairmanship of the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) and will be hosting the two-day in-person SCO meeting in October. Pakistan invited India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the SCO Summit in August. Watch | SCO Summit to focus on joint investment fund, PM Modi not likely to attend summit × Meanwhile, India hosted the SCO Summit last year virtually, which was attended by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif through a video link. The SCO Council of Heads of Government level is the second-highest body in the grouping. Since 2017, India has been represented at the level of EAM or defence minister. (With inputs from agencies)

India's EAM Jaishankar to visit Pakistan to attend SCO Summit in October

A 17-year-old boy was taken into custody on Thursday (Oct 3) for allegedly killing a 55-year-old doctor at his private clinic in New Delhi. After fatally shooting the doctor with a gun, the teen reportedly posted a picture on social media with the alleged murder weapon with the caption: "Kar diya 2024 mein murder (finally committed murder in 2024)." 
&nbsp; 
The teenager, accompanied by a friend who is currently missing, visited Nima Hospital, a small three-bed facility in Kalindi Kunj, seeking first-aid treatment and shot Dr Javed Akhtar, a Unani medicine specialist. The teen claimed that he was furious about being charged too much for the treatment.

Authorities were alerted about the incident at around 1:45 am (local time) and arrived to find Akhtar slumped in his chair. Security footage from the hospital showed two boys entering the building calmly and walking straight to the doctor’s cabin before shooting him.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/couple-in-indias-up-dupes-people-of-millions-with-promise-of-age-reversal-heres-what-happened-764438">UP couple dupes people of millions with promise of 'age reversal': Reports</a>

Hospital staff told police that the two boys arrived late at night, with one asking to have the dressing on an injured toe changed. The teenager had reportedly received treatment at the hospital the night before.

After the dressing change, the boys requested a prescription and then went to Dr. Akhtar’s cabin. Shortly after, nurses reportedly identified as&nbsp;Gazala Parveen and Mohammad Kamil heard a gunshot. Rushing to the scene, they found the doctor bleeding from a head wound.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pilgrims-can-now-see-mount-kailash-from-inside-indian-territory-heres-how-764397">Pilgrims can now see Mount Kailash from inside Indian territory. Here's how</a>

Following the alleged&nbsp;shooting, the teenager&nbsp;posted a photo on social media with the caption:&nbsp;"Kar diya 2024 mein murder (finally committed murder in 2024)." During questioning, the teenager reportedly admitted that he was hired by a nurse's husband, who suspected Dr&nbsp;Akhtar of having an affair with his wife.

The boy, said to be in love with the nurse's daughter, claimed the husband promised him her hand in marriage in exchange for killing the doctor. Police said that the teen withdrew money using the husband's ATM card, as per media reports.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 17-year-old boy was taken into custody on Thursday (Oct 3) for allegedly killing a 55-year-old doctor at his private clinic in New Delhi. After fatally shooting the doctor with a gun, the teen reportedly posted a picture on social media with the alleged murder weapon with the caption: "Kar diya 2024 mein murder (finally committed murder in 2024).

A 17-year-old boy was taken into custody on Thursday (Oct 3) for allegedly killing a 55-year-old doctor at his private clinic in New Delhi. After fatally shooting the doctor with a gun, the teen reportedly posted a picture on social media with the alleged murder weapon with the caption: "Kar diya 2024 mein murder (finally committed murder in 2024)." The teenager, accompanied by a friend who is currently missing, visited Nima Hospital, a small three-bed facility in Kalindi Kunj, seeking first-aid treatment and shot Dr Javed Akhtar, a Unani medicine specialist. The teen claimed that he was furious about being charged too much for the treatment. Authorities were alerted about the incident at around 1:45 am (local time) and arrived to find Akhtar slumped in his chair. Security footage from the hospital showed two boys entering the building calmly and walking straight to the doctor’s cabin before shooting him. Also read: UP couple dupes people of millions with promise of 'age reversal': Reports Hospital staff told police that the two boys arrived late at night, with one asking to have the dressing on an injured toe changed. The teenager had reportedly received treatment at the hospital the night before. After the dressing change, the boys requested a prescription and then went to Dr. Akhtar’s cabin. Shortly after, nurses reportedly identified as Gazala Parveen and Mohammad Kamil heard a gunshot. Rushing to the scene, they found the doctor bleeding from a head wound. Also read: Pilgrims can now see Mount Kailash from inside Indian territory. Here's how Following the alleged shooting, the teenager posted a photo on social media with the caption: "Kar diya 2024 mein murder (finally committed murder in 2024)." During questioning, the teenager reportedly admitted that he was hired by a nurse's husband, who suspected Dr Akhtar of having an affair with his wife. The boy, said to be in love with the nurse's daughter, claimed the husband promised him her hand in marriage in exchange for killing the doctor. Police said that the teen withdrew money using the husband's ATM card, as per media reports. (With inputs from agencies)

Teen kills Delhi doctor, brags on social media: 'Finally committed murder in 2024'

In a path-breaking development, India's Supreme Court on Thursday (Oct 3) banned all caste-based discrimination in Indian jails, terming them as “unconstitutional.” The court calls for immediate reforms across all states and Union Territories (UTs) against the various jail manual provisions like scavenging and cleaning by the marginalised inmates, as this violates their right to dignity and equality.

The verdict was delivered by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud, specifically addressing the entrenched discriminatory practices against marginalised communities, including scheduled castes (SC), scheduled tribes (ST) and denotified tribes (DNTs) in Indian prisons.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/couple-in-indias-up-dupes-people-of-millions-with-promise-of-age-reversal-heres-what-happened-764438">Couple in India's UP dupes people of millions with promise of 'age reversal.' Here's what happened</a>

“The right to live with dignity extends even to the incarcerated. Not providing dignity to prisoners is a relic of the colonisers and pre-colonial mechanisms, where oppressive systems were designed to dehumanise and degrade those under the control of the State,” the SC bench said.

These discriminatory provisions are part of the pre-colonial-era Prisons Act of 1894, but they continue in independent India despite manuals and Acts framed by the Centre as recently as last year, the apex court found.&nbsp;

“The rule that a prisoner of a high caste be allowed to refuse food cooked by other castes is a legal sanction by the state authorities to untouchability and the caste system,” the bench, which included Justice J B&nbsp;Pardiwala and Justice Manoj Misra, said.

The provision that food is to be cooked by prisoners from a “suitable caste” allows jail officials to discriminate against the marginalised castes, it said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pilgrims-can-now-see-mount-kailash-from-inside-indian-territory-heres-how-764397">Pilgrims can now see Mount Kailash from inside Indian territory. Here's how</a>

It frowned upon the imposition of work such as cleaning latrines and sweeping only on “Mether, Hari caste or Chandal” and similar castes, saying it amounted to “forced labour”. The top court condemned such practice, calling it a clear violation of human dignity.

“We therefore find that the impugned provisions are violative of Articles 14 (equality), 15 (non-discrimination), 17 (untouchability), 21 (life and liberty), and 23 (prohibition against forced labour),” the SC bench said.

The bench also asked the central government to make the necessary changes to the Model Prison Manual 2016 and the Model Prisons and Correctional Services Act 2023 within three months.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a path-breaking development, India's Supreme Court on Thursday (Oct 3) banned all caste-based discrimination in Indian jails, terming them as “unconstitutional.

In a path-breaking development, India's Supreme Court on Thursday (Oct 3) banned all caste-based discrimination in Indian jails, terming them as “unconstitutional.” The court calls for immediate reforms across all states and Union Territories (UTs) against the various jail manual provisions like scavenging and cleaning by the marginalised inmates, as this violates their right to dignity and equality. The verdict was delivered by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud, specifically addressing the entrenched discriminatory practices against marginalised communities, including scheduled castes (SC), scheduled tribes (ST) and denotified tribes (DNTs) in Indian prisons. Also Read | Couple in India's UP dupes people of millions with promise of 'age reversal.' Here's what happened “The right to live with dignity extends even to the incarcerated. Not providing dignity to prisoners is a relic of the colonisers and pre-colonial mechanisms, where oppressive systems were designed to dehumanise and degrade those under the control of the State,” the SC bench said. These discriminatory provisions are part of the pre-colonial-era Prisons Act of 1894, but they continue in independent India despite manuals and Acts framed by the Centre as recently as last year, the apex court found. “The rule that a prisoner of a high caste be allowed to refuse food cooked by other castes is a legal sanction by the state authorities to untouchability and the caste system,” the bench, which included Justice J B Pardiwala and Justice Manoj Misra, said. The provision that food is to be cooked by prisoners from a “suitable caste” allows jail officials to discriminate against the marginalised castes, it said. Also Read | Pilgrims can now see Mount Kailash from inside Indian territory. Here's how It frowned upon the imposition of work such as cleaning latrines and sweeping only on “Mether, Hari caste or Chandal” and similar castes, saying it amounted to “forced labour”. The top court condemned such practice, calling it a clear violation of human dignity. “We therefore find that the impugned provisions are violative of Articles 14 (equality), 15 (non-discrimination), 17 (untouchability), 21 (life and liberty), and 23 (prohibition against forced labour),” the SC bench said. The bench also asked the central government to make the necessary changes to the Model Prison Manual 2016 and the Model Prisons and Correctional Services Act 2023 within three months. (With inputs from agencies)

India's Supreme Court scraps 'unconstitutional' laws that promote caste-based discrimination in jails

The Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a massive change with regard to local youth joining terror outfits. The Indian Army says that no local youth have joined the terror outfits in 2024 and the local recruitment has come down to zero. The Indian Army also says that the total number of active terrorists in the UT is at 80 and the majority of them are foreign terrorists.&nbsp;

The terror graph in Jammu and Kashmir has been on a decline for the last few years. Barring a few incidents of violence, the situation has largely been under control. From the areas close to the Line of Control in the Northern Part of Kashmir to the interiors of the Kashmir Valley, the situation has improved. Security forces have said that this year there have been no reports of any local youngsters joining the terror ranks in the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/teen-kills-delhi-doctor-brags-on-social-media-finally-committed-murder-in-2024-764479">Teen kills Delhi doctor, brags on social media: 'Finally committed murder...'</a>

In 2023, around 22 local youth had joined&nbsp;the terror ranks. However,&nbsp;the Indian Army says the situation in the Kashmir Valley has improved and terrorism in Kashmir is in its final stages.&nbsp;

"The terrorism today is largely fuelled from across the border, and I think that much is very clear. We have not had any active recruitment&nbsp;as I see in the last year and a half. The numbers last year were down to a dozen across the year. And this year they are almost next to nil. The official number with agencies is at 80 and you can see that's the lowest number in many years. We have gone below 100. It has been an endeavour&nbsp;of security forces to bring these numbers down. I am quite confident the way we are going ahead, these numbers will keep going down. We could be looking at a lesser figure&nbsp;by the middle of next year,"&nbsp;said&nbsp;Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai, general officer commanding the Srinagar-based 15 Corps.&nbsp;

Security forces in the region also believe that maintaining peace and improvement in the current atmosphere is the biggest challenge for them. The Indian Army believes that the security grid needs to be as tight and advocates that there should be no reduction in the number of troops in the Union Territory.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-mauritius-chagos-archipelago-agreement-india-played-quiet-but-crucial-role-in-deal-says-report-764357">UK-Mauritius Chagos archipelago agreement: India played quiet but crucial role in deal, says report</a>

"If you see the violence parameters and atrocities committed by terrorists, if you look at four&nbsp;or five incidents in the valley this year. They are negligible. Now the challenge is to maintain the situation, Kashmir has had a good year, and we need a few more years like this for the lasting peace in the valley. That is going to be the biggest challenge for security forces given today,"&nbsp;said&nbsp;Lieutenant General Ghai.&nbsp;

In the recently concluded assembly elections, Jammu and Kashmir witnessed unprecedented public participation in the polls. With young people at the forefront of campaign rallies and standing in every polling booth of the region to cast their vote. The security forces called it a win as the youth had chosen the ballot over the bullet.

The Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a massive change with regard to local youth joining terror outfits. The Indian Army says that no local youth have joined the terror outfits in 2024 and the local recruitment has come down to zero.

The Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a massive change with regard to local youth joining terror outfits. The Indian Army says that no local youth have joined the terror outfits in 2024 and the local recruitment has come down to zero. The Indian Army also says that the total number of active terrorists in the UT is at 80 and the majority of them are foreign terrorists. The terror graph in Jammu and Kashmir has been on a decline for the last few years. Barring a few incidents of violence, the situation has largely been under control. From the areas close to the Line of Control in the Northern Part of Kashmir to the interiors of the Kashmir Valley, the situation has improved. Security forces have said that this year there have been no reports of any local youngsters joining the terror ranks in the Kashmir Valley. Also read: Teen kills Delhi doctor, brags on social media: 'Finally committed murder...' In 2023, around 22 local youth had joined the terror ranks. However, the Indian Army says the situation in the Kashmir Valley has improved and terrorism in Kashmir is in its final stages. "The terrorism today is largely fuelled from across the border, and I think that much is very clear. We have not had any active recruitment as I see in the last year and a half. The numbers last year were down to a dozen across the year. And this year they are almost next to nil. The official number with agencies is at 80 and you can see that's the lowest number in many years. We have gone below 100. It has been an endeavour of security forces to bring these numbers down. I am quite confident the way we are going ahead, these numbers will keep going down. We could be looking at a lesser figure by the middle of next year," said Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai, general officer commanding the Srinagar-based 15 Corps. Security forces in the region also believe that maintaining peace and improvement in the current atmosphere is the biggest challenge for them. The Indian Army believes that the security grid needs to be as tight and advocates that there should be no reduction in the number of troops in the Union Territory. Also read: UK-Mauritius Chagos archipelago agreement: India played quiet but crucial role in deal, says report "If you see the violence parameters and atrocities committed by terrorists, if you look at four or five incidents in the valley this year. They are negligible. Now the challenge is to maintain the situation, Kashmir has had a good year, and we need a few more years like this for the lasting peace in the valley. That is going to be the biggest challenge for security forces given today," said Lieutenant General Ghai. In the recently concluded assembly elections, Jammu and Kashmir witnessed unprecedented public participation in the polls. With young people at the forefront of campaign rallies and standing in every polling booth of the region to cast their vote. The security forces called it a win as the youth had chosen the ballot over the bullet.

India: Local recruitment of terror groups in Kashmir hits zero; majority of active militants now foreign

Pilgrims on Thursday had the first-ever view of the sacred Kailash peak, believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, from the Old Lipulekh pass inside the Indian territory.

Pilgrims Witness Kailash Peak From Old Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand

A couple in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh duped dozens of elderly people of $4.16 million (Rs 35 crore) with the promise to make them young using an Israeli-made time machine, according to media reports on Friday (Oct 4).

A couple in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh duped dozens of elderly people of $4.16 million (Rs 35 crore) with the promise to make them young using an Israeli-made time machine, according to media reports on Friday (Oct 4). The couple were identified as Rajeev Kumar Dubey and his wife Rashmi Dubey. Citing police, a report by NDTV said that the Dubeys opened a therapy centre in Kanpur called Revival World. The police said that the therapy centre was opened using a machine bought from Israel to transform a 60-year-old into a 25-year-old. Luring clients with 'oxygen therapy' The NDTV report said that the couple would deceive people by telling them that due to polluted air, they were ageing rapidly and that the "oxygen therapy" would transform them within months. A senior police officer told the network that the Dubeys offered packages of around $71 for 10 sessions and around $1,071 for a "three-year reward system." This case came to light when one of the victims of the scam filed a police complaint alleging that she was cheated of $12,802. Based on the victim's complaint, the police registered a cheating case. Couple absconding The Dubeys haven't been caught yet and are suspected to have fled abroad. A report by the Times of India (TOI) said that a manhunt has been launched for the husband and wife. (With inputs from agencies)

Couple in India's UP dupes people of millions with promise of 'age reversal.' Here's what happened

The tourism department of the Indian state of Uttarakhand on Thursday (Oct 3) launched the "Mount Kailash Darshan from Indian Soil" pilgrimage under which the pilgrims can now witness the Mount Kailash from the Old Lipulekh Peak along with Om Parvat in the Pithoragarh district of the state.

The tourism department of the Indian state of Uttarakhand on Thursday (Oct 3) launched the "Mount Kailash Darshan from Indian Soil" pilgrimage under which the pilgrims can now witness the Mount Kailash from the Old Lipulekh Peak along with Om Parvat in the Pithoragarh district of the state. The first batch of pilgrims started their pilgrimage on Gandhi Jayanti, October 2 (Wednesday) and witnessed the majestic Mount Kailash on Thursday, from Old Lipulekh Peak along with Om Parvat, the news agency ANI reported citing the chief minister's office (CMO). What led to the start of the pilgrimage? On Friday, the pilgrims would visit Adi Kailash from Gunji Pithoragarh before returning to Pithoragarh. The CMO said that the package includes helicopter tickets from Pithoragarh to Gunji and back with accommodation at KMVN or homestays. News agency ANI reported that the point from where Mount Kailash is visible was discovered a few months ago by a team of officials from Uttarakhand Tourism, BRO and ITBP. Following the discovery, necessary preparations were made by the Uttarakhand tourism department to start a package tour covering the darshan of Mount Kailash, Adi Kailash and Om Parvat all from Indian soil. CM reacts to start of the pilgrimage On Thursday, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami mentioned that the opening of the darshan of Mount Kailash from Indian soil reflected the commitment of the government and congratulated all departments associated with the project. Chief Minister Dhami added that now Shiva devotees need not wait for their turn to visit the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra and can pay their respects from Indian territory. (With inputs from agencies)

Pilgrims can now see Mount Kailash from inside Indian territory. Here's how

Former Indian cricket captain and Congress leader Mohammad Azharuddin on Thursday failed to depose before the ED in a money laundering case linked to alleged financial irregularities in the Hyderabad Cricket Association.

Mohammad Azharuddin Skips ED Summons in Money-laundering Case

While doctors have been protesting for their safety for over a month in the eastern Indian city of Kolkata, the capital city&nbsp;New Delhi witnessed a gruesome murder where a 55-year-old doctor was shot dead by two teenagers in the early hours of Thursday (Oct 3).&nbsp;

According to the hospital staff, the two accused, aged between 16 and 17, arrived at the&nbsp;Nima Hospital, in Delhi's Jaitpur area, at around 1.30 am local time, seeking treatment.

One of them requested a change of dressing for his injured toe, having been treated a night earlier. However, after the dressing was done, the duo said they wanted a prescription and went to the cabin of Dr Javed Akhtar, a practitioner of Unani Medicine.

After reaching the cabin, they shot Dr Akhtar in the head, leaving him to die. Nursing staff Gajala Parveen and Md Kamil arrived on the scene minutes later and saw the doctor bleeding from his head.&nbsp;

"At around 1 am, two teenage boys came to the hospital for treatment. After the treatment, they entered the doctor's cabin and shot him in the head. Dr Javed was on night duty from 8 pm. He worked in the hospital for two years," one of the staffers said.&nbsp;

Polic is of the view that it was a case of targeted killing and the&nbsp;assailants' visit the previous night could have been for a recce.

Also watch |&nbsp;New twist in Kolkata doctor rape-murder case

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kolkata-rape-murder-case-new-twist-in-kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-756137/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<h2>Doctors' safety questioned&nbsp;</h2>

The Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA) raised questions regarding the safety of doctors in the country and demanded thorough investigation into the case.&nbsp;

"An incident like this happening at workplace of a doctor, in the capital city of India?&nbsp;Isn’t this a blatant disregard for law and order in the city?&nbsp;Why are doctors becoming easy targets in the hospitals?&nbsp;Who will answer? @LtGovDelhi @CMODelhi @AtishiAAP @ArvindKejriwal," FORDA said in a post on X.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A doctor at NIMA hospital, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> was shot dead at point blank range yesterday night. 
 
According to <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiPolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiPolice</a>- prima facie it’s a case of targeted killing- unprovoked &amp; possibly planned. 
 
Dr Akhtar was a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BUMS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BUMS</a> practitioner. May his soul rest in peace. 
 
‼️An incident like… <a href="https://t.co/UQZmsYyLlc">pic.twitter.com/UQZmsYyLlc</a>
— FORDA INDIA (@FordaIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/FordaIndia/status/1841697627483615633?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) trained guns on Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena over the law and order situation in the national capital as the Delhi Police reports to the Central government.&nbsp;

"Delhi has become crime capital - Gangsters operating with ease, extortion calls and firings and daily murders. Central Govt &amp; @LtGovDelhi have failed in their basic work for Delhi," Delhi minister and AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-doctors-in-indias-west-bengal-resume-their-total-cease-work-763384">Also read |&nbsp;Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Junior doctors in India's West Bengal resume their 'total cease work'</a>

The incident comes in the backdrop of a junior trainee doctor&nbsp;being brutally raped and murdered at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata in July, leading to strong protests regarding the safety of doctors in the country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

While doctors have been protesting for their safety for over a month in the eastern Indian city of Kolkata, the capital city New Delhi witnessed a gruesome murder where a 55-year-old doctor was shot dead by two teenagers in the early hours of Thursday (Oct 3).

While doctors have been protesting for their safety for over a month in the eastern Indian city of Kolkata, the capital city New Delhi witnessed a gruesome murder where a 55-year-old doctor was shot dead by two teenagers in the early hours of Thursday (Oct 3). According to the hospital staff, the two accused, aged between 16 and 17, arrived at the Nima Hospital, in Delhi's Jaitpur area, at around 1.30 am local time, seeking treatment. One of them requested a change of dressing for his injured toe, having been treated a night earlier. However, after the dressing was done, the duo said they wanted a prescription and went to the cabin of Dr Javed Akhtar, a practitioner of Unani Medicine. After reaching the cabin, they shot Dr Akhtar in the head, leaving him to die. Nursing staff Gajala Parveen and Md Kamil arrived on the scene minutes later and saw the doctor bleeding from his head. "At around 1 am, two teenage boys came to the hospital for treatment. After the treatment, they entered the doctor's cabin and shot him in the head. Dr Javed was on night duty from 8 pm. He worked in the hospital for two years," one of the staffers said. Polic is of the view that it was a case of targeted killing and the assailants' visit the previous night could have been for a recce. Also watch | New twist in Kolkata doctor rape-murder case Doctors' safety questioned The Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA) raised questions regarding the safety of doctors in the country and demanded thorough investigation into the case. "An incident like this happening at workplace of a doctor, in the capital city of India? Isn’t this a blatant disregard for law and order in the city? Why are doctors becoming easy targets in the hospitals? Who will answer? @LtGovDelhi @CMODelhi @AtishiAAP @ArvindKejriwal," FORDA said in a post on X. A doctor at NIMA hospital, #Delhi was shot dead at point blank range yesterday night. According to @DelhiPolice- prima facie it’s a case of targeted killing- unprovoked & possibly planned. Dr Akhtar was a #BUMS practitioner. May his soul rest in peace. ‼️An incident like… pic.twitter.com/UQZmsYyLlc — FORDA INDIA (@FordaIndia) October 3, 2024 × Meanwhile, ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) trained guns on Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena over the law and order situation in the national capital as the Delhi Police reports to the Central government. "Delhi has become crime capital - Gangsters operating with ease, extortion calls and firings and daily murders. Central Govt & @LtGovDelhi have failed in their basic work for Delhi," Delhi minister and AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj said. Also read | Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Junior doctors in India's West Bengal resume their 'total cease work' The incident comes in the backdrop of a junior trainee doctor being brutally raped and murdered at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata in July, leading to strong protests regarding the safety of doctors in the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi hospital horror: Doctor shot dead by 2 teenagers who entered hospital under pretext of injury

Haryana Assembly Elections 2024 Date: Haryana is gearing up for its Legislative Assembly Elections. The polling will take place on October 5 to elect 90 members of the Haryana Legislative Assembly.

Haryana Assembly Elections 2024 Date: Haryana is gearing up for its Legislative Assembly Elections. The polling will take place on October 5 to elect 90 members of the Haryana Legislative Assembly. The results of the elections will be declared on October 8. The current Haryana Legislative Assembly will end its tenure on November 3, 2024. The last elections, which were held in October 2019, resulted in a state government being formed by the coalition of Bharatiya Janata Party and Jannayak Janata Party, with Manohar Lal Khattar as the chief minister. In the 2019 elections, BJP won 40 seats and formed a coalition with JJP, who won 10 seats, while Congress won 31 seats. BJP and JJP have broken their alliance. This year, BJP, Congress, JJP, and AAP parties will contest against each other. Also read | Foreign diplomats visited India’s Jammu and Kashmir to witness the second phase of voting Haryana Assembly Election Constituency wise list of candidates The list of candidates for each constituency is as follows: S No Constituency BJP Candidate Congress Candidate AAP Candidates JJP-ASP candidates INLD-BSP candidates 1 Ladwa Nayab Singh Saini Mewa Singh Joga Singh Vinod Sharma Sapna Barshami 2 Kalka Shakti Rani Sharma Pradeep Chaudhary OP Gujjar Balbir Saini 3 Panchkula Gian Chand Gupta Chander Mohan Prem Garg Sushil Garg Kshitij Chaudhary 4 Ambala Cantt Anil Vij Parimal Pari Raj Kaur Gill Avtar Kardhan S Onkar Singh 5 Ambala City Aseem Goel Nirmal Singh Ketan Sharma Parul Nagpal 6 Sadhaura (SC) Balwant Singh Renu Bala Rita Bamaniya Sohel (ASP) 7 Mulana (SC) Santosh Sarwan Pooja Chaudhary Gurtej Singh Ravinder Dheen Parkash Bharti 8 Jagadhri Kanwar Pal Gurjar Akram Khan Adarshpal Gujjar Ashok Kashyap (ASP) Darshan Lal Kheda 9 Yamunanagar Ghanshyam Dass Arora Raman Tyagi Lalit Tyagi Intzaar Ali Gurjar Dilbag Singh 10 Radaur Shyam Singh Rana Bishan Lal Saini Bheem Singh Rathi Rajkumar Bubka 11 Shahbad (SC) Subhash Kalsana Ram Karan Asha Pathania Ranjita Singh 12 Thanesar Subhash Sudha Ashok Arora Krishna Bajaj SuryaPratap Rathor 13 Pehowa Kamaljeet Singh Arjana Mandeep Singh Chatha Gehal Singh Sandhu Sukhvinder Kaur Baldev Singh Warraich 14 Guhla (SC) Kulwant Bazigar Devinder Hans Rakesh Khanpur Krishan Bajigar Poonam Sultaniya 15 Kalayat Kamlesh Dhanda Vikas Saharan Anurag Dhandha Pritam Mehra (ASP) Rampal Majra 16 Kaithal Leela Ram Gurjar Aditya Surjewala Satbir Goyat Sandeep Garhi 17 Nilokheri (SC) Bhagwan Dass Kabirpanthi Dharm Pal Gondar Amar Singh Karna Singh Bhukkal Balwan Balmiki 18 Indri Ram Kumar Kashyap Rakesh Kumar Kamboj Hawa Singh Kuldeep Mandan 19 Karnal Jammohan Anand Sumita Virk Sunil Bindal Jitendra Royal Surjeet Singh Pehalwan 20 Gharaunda Harvinder Kalyan Virender Singh Rathore Jaipal Sharma Rajpal Rod (ASP) Mannu Kashyap 21 Panipat Rural Mahipal Dhanda Sachin Kundu Sukhbir Malik Rahunath Kashyap 22 Panipat City Pramod Kumar Vij Virender Kumar Shah Ritu Arora Ravindra Minna 23 Israna (SC) Krishan Lal Panwar Balbir Singh Amit Kumar Sunil Saudapur Surajbhan Nara 24 Samalkha Manmohan Bhadana Dharam Singh Chhoker Bittu Pahalwan Rajesh Jattipur 25 Kharkhauda (SC) Pawan Kharkhauda Jaiveer Singh Manjeet Farmana Ramesh Khatak Pritam Khokhar 26 Sonipat Nikhil Madan Surender Panwar Devender Gautam Sardharm 27 Gohana Arvind Sharma Jagbir Singh Malik Shiv Kumar Rangeela Kuldeep Malik 28 Safidon Ram Kumar Gautam Subhash Gangoli Nisha Deshwal Sushil Bairagi 29 Jind Krishan Lal Middha Mahabir Gupta Wazir Singh Dhanda Engineer Dharampal Prajapat Narendernath Sharma 30 Uchana Kalan Devender Attri Brijendra Singh Pawan Fauji Dushyant Chautala Vinod Dhulgach Alewa 31 Tohana Devender Singh Babli Paramvir Singh Sukhwinder Singh Gill Hawa Singh Khobda Kunal Karan Singh 32 Fatehabad Duda Ram Bishnoi Balwan Singh Daulatpuria Kamal Bisla Subhash Gorachhiya Sunaina Chautala 33 Ratia (SC) Sunita Duggal Jarghnail Singh Mukhtiyar Singh Bazigar Ramesh Kumar Ramsawroop Rama 34 Kalanwali (SC) Rajinder Deshujodha Shishpal Singh Jasdev Nikka Gurjant Tigri Master Gurtej Singh Sukhchain 35 Rania Shishpal Kamboj Savita Mitra Kamboj Happy Rania Arjun Chautala 36 Adampur Bhavya Bishnoi Chander Prakash Adv. Bhupendra Beniwal Krishan Gangwa Randeep Singh Lohchab 37 Uklana (SC) Anoop Dhanak Naresh Selwal Narender Uklana Rohtash Kandul Balraj Sabarwal 38 Narnaund Capt Abhimanyu Jasbir Singh Ranbir Singh Lohan Yogesh Gautam Umed Lohan 39 Hansi Vinod Bhayana Rahul Makkar Rajender Sorkhi Shamsher Dhul (ASP) 40 Barwala Ranbir Gangwa Ram Niwas Ghorela Prof. Chhatar Pal Singh Anantram Sanjana Satrod 41 Hisar Kamal Gupta Ram Niwas Rara Sanjay Satrodi Ravi Ahuja Shyam Lal Garg 42 Nalwa Randhir Panihar Anil Mann Umesh Sharma Virender Chaudhary 43 Loharu JP Dalal Rajbir Singh Fartiya Geeta Sheoran Alka Arya Bhoop Singh Sheoran 44 Badhra Umed Patuwas Sombir Singh (Sheoran) Rakesh Chandwas Lt Col Yashwir Singh Sheoran (ASP) Vijay Panchgana 45 Dadri Sunil Sangwan Manisha Sangwan Dhanraj Kundu Rajdeep Phogat 46 Bhiwani Ghanshyam Saraf Comrade Omprakash (CPI-M) Indu Sharma Jugnu Mehra (ASP) Karamvir Yadav 47 Tosham Shruti Chaudhary Anirudh Chaudhary Daljeet Singh Rajesh Bhardwaj 48 Bawani Khera (SC) Kapurnan Valmiki Pradeep Narwal Dharmveer Kungar Guddi Langyan 49 Meham Deepak Hooda Balram Dangi Vikas Nehra 50 Garhi Sampla-Kiloi Manju Hooda Bhupinder Singh Hooda Pravin Guskhani Sushil Deshwal Krishan Kaushik Advocate 51 Bahadurgarh Dinesh Kaushik Rajinder Singh Joon Kuldeep Chikara Balwan Singh (ASP) Sheela Rathi 52 Badli Om Prakash Dhankar Kuldeep Vals Ranbir Guliya Krishna Silana 53 Jhajjar (SC) Kaptan Birdhana Geeta Bhukkal Mahender Dahiya Nasib Balmiki 54 Beri Sanjay Kablana Dr. Raghuvir Singh Kadian Sonu Ahlawat Sheria Sunilkuntla Dujana Sarpanch Pramod Rathi 55 Ateli Kumar Arti Singh Rao Anita Yadav Suneel Rao Aayushi Abhimanyu Rao 56 Nangal Chaudhry Abhay Singh Yadav Manju Choudhary Dr Gopichand Engineer Omprakash 57 Kosli Anil Dahina Jagdish Yadav CA Himmat Yadav Lavinder Singh Yadav 58 Rewari Lakshman Singh Yadav Chiranjeev Rao Satish Yadav Moki Yadav 59 Badshahpur Rao Narbir Singh Vardhan Yadav Bir Singh Sarpanch Surender Yadav (ASP) 60 Gurgaon Mukesh Sharma Mohit Grover Nishant Anand Ashok Jangada Gaurav Bhati 61 Sohna Tejpal Tanwar Rohtash Khatana Dharamender Khatana Vinesh Gurjar (ASP) 62 Palwal Gaurav Gautam Karan Dalal Dharmender Hindustani Harit Bainsla (ASP) 63 Prithla Tek Chand Sharma Raghubir Tewatia Kaushal Sharma 64 Ballabgarh Mool Chand Sharma Parag Sharma Ravinder Faujdar 65 Faridabad Vipul Goel Lakhan Kumar Singhla Pravesh Mehta Nisha Balmiki Narenderpal Singh 66 Tigaon Rajesh Nagar Rohit Naar Abash Chandela Tika Ram Bharadwaj 67 Dabwali Sardar Baldev Singh Amit Sihag Kuldeep Gadrana Digvijay Singh Aditya Chautala 68 Julana Capt Yogesh Bairagi Vinesh Phogat Kavita Dalal Amarjeet Dhanda Surender Lathar 69 Bawal (SC) Krishna Kumar ML Ranga Jawahar Lal Rameshwar Dyal Sampat Ram Dahanwal 70 Hodal Harinder Singh Ramrattan Udai Bhan ML Gautam Satvir Tanwar Sunil Kumar Balmiki 71 Hathin Manoj Rawat Mohd Israil Col. Rajendra Rawat Ravindra Sehrawat Tayyab Hussain 72 Naraingarh Pawan Saini Shalley Chaudhary Gurpal Singh Harbilas Singh 73 Assandh Yogendra Rana Shamsher Singh Gogi Amandeep Jundla Maya Ram Rod Gopal Singh Rana 74 Baroda Pradeep Sangwan Induraj Singh Narwal Sandeep Malik Deepak Malik 75 Rohtak Manish Grover Bharat Bhushan Batra Bijender Hooda Jitendra Balhara Dilawar Mehra 76 Mahendragarh Ram Bilas Sharma Rao Dan Singh Manish Yadav Shashi Kumar (ASP) Surender Sharma 77 Nuh Sanjay Singh Aftab Ahmed Rabia Kidwai Tahir Hussain 78 Ferozepur Jhirka Naseem Ahmed Mamman Khan Wasin Jaffar Jan Mohd 79 Punahana Aizaz Khan Mohd. Ilyas Nayab Thekedar Bisru Daya Bhadana 80 Hodal (SC) Harinder Singh Ramrattan Udai Bhan ML Gautam 81 Faridabad (NIT) Satish Fagna Neeraj Sharma Ravi Dagar Hazi Karamat Ali Nagender Bhadana 82 Ganaur Devender Kaushik Kuldeep Sharma Saroj Bala Rathi Anil Tyagi 83 Pundri Satpal Jamba Sultan Singh Jadola Narendra Sharma Sajjan Dhul (Independent) 84 Narnaul Om Prakash Yadav Rao Narinder Singh Ravinder Matru Suresh Saini Nar Singh Dayma 85 Rai Krishna Gahlawat Jai Bhagwan Antil Rajesh Saroha Pramod Dahiya 86 Kalanaur Renu Dabla Shakuntla Khatak Naresh Bagri Mahender Sudana 87 Sonipat Nikhil Madan Surender Panwar Devender Gautam 88 Sirsa Gopal Kanda (HLP)- BJP withdraws candidate Gokul Setia Sham Mehta Pawan Sherpura (ASP) 89 Badkhal Dhanesh Adlakha Vijay Pratap OP Verma Parwinder Singh 90 Ellenabad Amir Chand Mehta Bharat Singh Beniwal Manish Arora Anjali Ladha Abhay Singh Chautala Also read | J&K Elections Phase 2: 'Congress wants to reinstate Article 370', says PM Modi Haryana Assembly Election 2024 Schedule, Dates and Result Dates The schedule for the Haryana Assembly Election is as follows: Poll Events Date Date of Issue of Gazette Notification 05.09.2024 (Thursday) Last Date of making nominations 12.09.2024 (Thursday) Date for Scrutiny of Nominations 13.09.2024 (Friday) Last date for the withdrawal of Candidates 16.09.2024 (Monday) Date of Poll 05.10.2024 (Tuesday) Date of Counting 08.10.2024 (Friday) (With inputs from agencies)

Haryana Assembly Election 2024 Date: Check phase-wise, constituency-wise voting schedule, result date: Details

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested a Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader on Thursday (October 3) for alleged financial irregularities at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata.

Ashish Pandey, a TMC youth leader, has been accused of helping Dr. Sandip Kumar Ghosh, a former principal of the medical college, who is also under arrest in the same case. Pandey, believed to have close ties with Ghosh, had been under investigation by the CBI and was questioned on September 30, according to the central agency.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/marathi-bengali-assamese-among-five-languages-granted-classical-status-by-union-cabinet-764304">Marathi, Bengali, Assamese among five languages granted 'classical' status by Union Cabinet</a>

Pandey, who works at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, is said to have links with the Trinamool Congress Students' Wing, TMCP. He allegedly served as the president of TMCP's unit at the college.

Trinankur Bhattacharya, the state president of the Trinamool Congress Chhatra Parishad (students' wing) and party spokesperson, commented on the situation, telling Press Trust of India, "We are yet to hear details about the case. But as of now, we can say that the law will take its own course and we have faith in the justice system."

BJP's Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of Opposition in the Bengal assembly, claimed that Pandey was a "strongman of the TMC," involved in promoting a culture of intimidation in government-run medical colleges.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/address-issues-in-us-india-roasts-us-agency-alleging-abuses-against-religious-minorities-764233">India roasts US agency alleging abuses against religious minorities</a>

Adhikari further said, "With his arrest and interrogation, CBI will be able to reach to the bottom of this culture at medical colleges and find out all those involved."

Previously, the CBI had arrested Sandip Ghosh along with three others—his bodyguard Afsar Ali, and vendors Suman Hazra and Biplab Sinha—who supplied medical equipment to the hospital during Ghosh's tenure as principal.

Ghosh was initially arrested in connection with a corruption case on September 2. Later, he was also taken into custody in relation to an August 9 case involving the alleged rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor at the medical college.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested a Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader on Thursday (October 3) for alleged financial irregularities at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested a Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader on Thursday (October 3) for alleged financial irregularities at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. Ashish Pandey, a TMC youth leader, has been accused of helping Dr. Sandip Kumar Ghosh, a former principal of the medical college, who is also under arrest in the same case. Pandey, believed to have close ties with Ghosh, had been under investigation by the CBI and was questioned on September 30, according to the central agency. Also read: Marathi, Bengali, Assamese among five languages granted 'classical' status by Union Cabinet Pandey, who works at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, is said to have links with the Trinamool Congress Students' Wing, TMCP. He allegedly served as the president of TMCP's unit at the college. Trinankur Bhattacharya, the state president of the Trinamool Congress Chhatra Parishad (students' wing) and party spokesperson, commented on the situation, telling Press Trust of India, "We are yet to hear details about the case. But as of now, we can say that the law will take its own course and we have faith in the justice system." BJP's Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of Opposition in the Bengal assembly, claimed that Pandey was a "strongman of the TMC," involved in promoting a culture of intimidation in government-run medical colleges. Also read: India roasts US agency alleging abuses against religious minorities Adhikari further said, "With his arrest and interrogation, CBI will be able to reach to the bottom of this culture at medical colleges and find out all those involved." Previously, the CBI had arrested Sandip Ghosh along with three others—his bodyguard Afsar Ali, and vendors Suman Hazra and Biplab Sinha—who supplied medical equipment to the hospital during Ghosh's tenure as principal. Ghosh was initially arrested in connection with a corruption case on September 2. Later, he was also taken into custody in relation to an August 9 case involving the alleged rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor at the medical college. (With inputs from agencies)

RG Kar Medical College corruption case: CBI arrests TMC leader for aiding ex-principal Sandip Ghosh

The Union Cabinet has granted classical language status to five more&nbsp;Indian languages: Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali, announced Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday. This decision will almost double the number of recognized classical languages, bringing the total from six to 11.

"The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved to confer the status of Classical Language to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese and Bengali languages. The Classical Languages serve as a custodian of Bharat’s profound and ancient cultural heritage, embodying the essence of each community’s historical and cultural milestone," said the government in an official statement.

"The primary states involved are Maharashtra (Marathi), Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh (Pali and Prakrit), West Bengal (Bengali), and Assam (Assamese). The broader cultural and academic impact will extend nationally and internationally," the statement continued.

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The concept of "Classical Languages" was first introduced by the government on October 12, 2004, with Tamil being the inaugural language to receive the honour, followed by Sanskrit in 2005. Other languages like Kannada and Telugu were added in 2008, Malayalam in 2013, and Odia in 2014.

To qualify as a classical language, a language must have a history and literary tradition that dates back at least 1500–2000 years, along with a significant collection of ancient texts that continue to be valued. Additionally, the language should possess a unique literary heritage, not derived from any other language, and there should be a clear distinction between the classical language and its modern versions or dialects.

Following the announcement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X, "Our Government cherishes and celebrates India's rich history and culture. We have also been unwavering in our commitment to popularising regional languages. I am extremely glad the Cabinet has decided that Assamese, Bengali, Marathi, Pali and Prakrit will be conferred the status of Classical Languages! Each of them are beautiful languages, highlighting our vibrant diversity. Congratulations to everyone"

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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, responding to the news that Bengali had received classical language status, wrote &nbsp;on X: "Most happy to share that Bengali/ Bangla has been finally accorded the status of a classical language by Government of India. We had been trying to snatch this recognition from Ministry of Culture, GOI and we had submitted three volumes of research findings in favour of our contention. Union government has accepted our well-researched claim today evening and we finally reach the cultural apex in the body of languages in India."

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also thanked the Prime Minister, saying, "Thank you Hon’ble Prime Minister for this decision. Your love and affection for the Assamese language and culture is unparalleled and the people of Assam will be forever indebted to you for recognising our beautiful mother tongue as a Classical language."

(With inputs from agencies)

The Union Cabinet has granted classical language status to five more Indian languages: Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali, announced Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday.

The Union Cabinet has granted classical language status to five more Indian languages: Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali, announced Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday. This decision will almost double the number of recognized classical languages, bringing the total from six to 11. "The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved to confer the status of Classical Language to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese and Bengali languages. The Classical Languages serve as a custodian of Bharat’s profound and ancient cultural heritage, embodying the essence of each community’s historical and cultural milestone," said the government in an official statement. "The primary states involved are Maharashtra (Marathi), Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh (Pali and Prakrit), West Bengal (Bengali), and Assam (Assamese). The broader cultural and academic impact will extend nationally and internationally," the statement continued. Also read: India kept in loop as Mauritius, UK agree on Indian Ocean archipelago's future The concept of "Classical Languages" was first introduced by the government on October 12, 2004, with Tamil being the inaugural language to receive the honour, followed by Sanskrit in 2005. Other languages like Kannada and Telugu were added in 2008, Malayalam in 2013, and Odia in 2014. To qualify as a classical language, a language must have a history and literary tradition that dates back at least 1500–2000 years, along with a significant collection of ancient texts that continue to be valued. Additionally, the language should possess a unique literary heritage, not derived from any other language, and there should be a clear distinction between the classical language and its modern versions or dialects. Following the announcement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X, "Our Government cherishes and celebrates India's rich history and culture. We have also been unwavering in our commitment to popularising regional languages. I am extremely glad the Cabinet has decided that Assamese, Bengali, Marathi, Pali and Prakrit will be conferred the status of Classical Languages! Each of them are beautiful languages, highlighting our vibrant diversity. Congratulations to everyone" Also read: India roasts US agency alleging abuses against religious minorities West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, responding to the news that Bengali had received classical language status, wrote on X: "Most happy to share that Bengali/ Bangla has been finally accorded the status of a classical language by Government of India. We had been trying to snatch this recognition from Ministry of Culture, GOI and we had submitted three volumes of research findings in favour of our contention. Union government has accepted our well-researched claim today evening and we finally reach the cultural apex in the body of languages in India." Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also thanked the Prime Minister, saying, "Thank you Hon’ble Prime Minister for this decision. Your love and affection for the Assamese language and culture is unparalleled and the people of Assam will be forever indebted to you for recognising our beautiful mother tongue as a Classical language." (With inputs from agencies)

Union govt grants ‘classical language’ status to Marathi, Bengali, Assamese, Pali, and Prakrit

The Indian government on Thursday opposed the criminalisation of marital rape in the Supreme Court, and stressed that matter relating to marital rape needs "a comprehensive approach" rather than a "strict legal approach".&nbsp;

The Centre said that if sexual acts by a man with his own wife are made punishable as "rape", it may severely impact the conjugal relationship and lead to serious disturbances in the institution of marriage, according to the news agency PTI.&nbsp;

It further said that "while exercising such judicial review on such subjects (marital rape), it is to be appreciated that the present question is not only a constitutional question but essentially&nbsp;a social question on which Parliament, after being apprised and being aware of all sides of the opinion on the present issue, has taken a position."

Centre informed the court that Parliament has decided to retain Exception 2 to Section 375 of IPC in 2013 while amending the said section in the year 2013.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/marriage-a-license-to-rape-indias-top-court-to-hear-pleas-on-marital-rape-these-countries-criminalise-it-576588">Also read:&nbsp;Marriage a license to rape? India's top court to hear pleas on marital rape; these countries criminalise it</a>

"Furthermore, it is submitted that striking down Exception 2 of Section 375 of IPC on the ground of its constitutional validity will have a far-reaching effect on the institution of marriage if sexual intercourse or sexual acts by a man with his own wife is made punishable as 'rape'," the Centre said in its affidavit, according to news agency PTI.

"It is submitted that the act colloquially referred to as 'marital rape' ought to be illegal and criminalised. The central government asserts that a woman's consent is not obliterated by marriage and its violation should result in penal consequences. However, the consequences of such violations within marriage differ from those outside it," the affidavit said.

Moreover, the Centre told the Supreme Court that Parliament has provided different remedies, including criminal law provisions, to protect consent within marriage.

Watch |&nbsp;Delhi High Court's split verdict on Marital rape; consent of women still an issue?

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"Given the nature of the marital institution in our socio-legal milieu, if the legislature is of the view that, for the preservation of the marital institution, the impugned exception should be retained, it is submitted that it would not be appropriate for this court to strike down the exception," the central government told the Supreme Court.

"It may severely impact the conjugal relationship and may lead to serious disturbances in the institution of marriage," the government said.

"This is more so since the issues involved have a direct bearing on the society in general and is a part of Concurrent List of the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution of India," the Centre said.

According to the affidavit, a husband certainly does not have any fundamental right to violate the consent of the wife, however, attracting the crime in the nature of "rape" as recognised in India to the institution of marriage can be arguably considered to be excessively harsh and therefore, disproportionate.

"Therefore, it is respectfully submitted that if the legislature decides to exempt, from the rigour of such a charge, and such a label, husbands, vis-a-vis their wives, given the intelligible differentia that exists in a marital relationship vis-a-vis other relationships, the said decision and discretion should be respected and not interfered with, especially when a separate suitably tailored penal remedy is provided by the Legislature," it said.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Indian government on Thursday opposed the criminalisation of marital rape in the Supreme Court, and stressed that matter relating to marital rape needs "a comprehensive approach" rather than a "strict legal approach".

The Indian government on Thursday opposed the criminalisation of marital rape in the Supreme Court, and stressed that matter relating to marital rape needs "a comprehensive approach" rather than a "strict legal approach". The Centre said that if sexual acts by a man with his own wife are made punishable as "rape", it may severely impact the conjugal relationship and lead to serious disturbances in the institution of marriage, according to the news agency PTI. It further said that "while exercising such judicial review on such subjects (marital rape), it is to be appreciated that the present question is not only a constitutional question but essentially a social question on which Parliament, after being apprised and being aware of all sides of the opinion on the present issue, has taken a position." Centre informed the court that Parliament has decided to retain Exception 2 to Section 375 of IPC in 2013 while amending the said section in the year 2013. Also read: Marriage a license to rape? India's top court to hear pleas on marital rape; these countries criminalise it "Furthermore, it is submitted that striking down Exception 2 of Section 375 of IPC on the ground of its constitutional validity will have a far-reaching effect on the institution of marriage if sexual intercourse or sexual acts by a man with his own wife is made punishable as 'rape'," the Centre said in its affidavit, according to news agency PTI. "It is submitted that the act colloquially referred to as 'marital rape' ought to be illegal and criminalised. The central government asserts that a woman's consent is not obliterated by marriage and its violation should result in penal consequences. However, the consequences of such violations within marriage differ from those outside it," the affidavit said. Moreover, the Centre told the Supreme Court that Parliament has provided different remedies, including criminal law provisions, to protect consent within marriage. Watch | Delhi High Court's split verdict on Marital rape; consent of women still an issue? × "Given the nature of the marital institution in our socio-legal milieu, if the legislature is of the view that, for the preservation of the marital institution, the impugned exception should be retained, it is submitted that it would not be appropriate for this court to strike down the exception," the central government told the Supreme Court. "It may severely impact the conjugal relationship and may lead to serious disturbances in the institution of marriage," the government said. "This is more so since the issues involved have a direct bearing on the society in general and is a part of Concurrent List of the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution of India," the Centre said. According to the affidavit, a husband certainly does not have any fundamental right to violate the consent of the wife, however, attracting the crime in the nature of "rape" as recognised in India to the institution of marriage can be arguably considered to be excessively harsh and therefore, disproportionate. "Therefore, it is respectfully submitted that if the legislature decides to exempt, from the rigour of such a charge, and such a label, husbands, vis-a-vis their wives, given the intelligible differentia that exists in a marital relationship vis-a-vis other relationships, the said decision and discretion should be respected and not interfered with, especially when a separate suitably tailored penal remedy is provided by the Legislature," it said. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian govt opposes criminalisation of marital rape in SC, says such matters need ‘comprehensive approach’

Karnataka health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao made a controversial remark about Hindutva ideologue Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, saying that he consumed meat and possibly beef, triggering off the next major political controversy ahead of the assembly election in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

Karnataka minister further said that Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, was not a fundamentalist but Savarkar was.&nbsp;

Following the remarks, both the Shiv Sena and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) condemned the remarks, calling them an insult to the freedom fighter.&nbsp;

Moreover, the BJP also started protesting and Savarkar's grandson even threatened to file a defamation suit against the Karnataka leader. &nbsp;

"Savarkar, a 'Chitpavan Brahmin', used to eat meat. He was a non-veg eater and he was not against cow slaughter... Some say that he used to eat beef as well. As a Brahmin, he used to eat meat and was openly propagating eating meat," Rao said.&nbsp;

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BJP national spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi criticised Congress and demanded that the party name any of its top leaders who were handed down double life imprisonment and lodged at the cellular jail in Andaman-Nicobar Islands by the British.

"Insulting Veer Savarkar, who was an inspiration to revolutionaries in the country, is akin to spitting on the moon," BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh said.&nbsp;

"Kanhaiya Kumar, who raises 'Bharat tere tukde honge' slogan, is embraced. Red carpet is rolled out for those who consider Afzal Guru (Parliament attack convict) a hero...What kind of 'mohabbat ki dukan' Rahul Gandhi has opened where the martyrs and freedom fighters are insulted?" he added.&nbsp;

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam also condemned the statement and warned the Congress party against repeatedly maligning Savarkar, revered by many in Maharashtra for his role in India’s freedom struggle.

"Once again, the Congress party has made a very low-level comment against Swatantra Veer Savarkar. The statement made by the Karnataka Health Minister is completely condemnable; it is an insult to him," Nirupam said in a video.&nbsp;

"I want to tell the Congress and threaten them that the people of Maharashtra love Savarkar ji very much and if they keep insulting him like this again and again, then the people of Maharashtra will bury the Congress party in the ground, so the Congress party should stop insulting Savarkar," he said.

Meanwhile, &nbsp;the grandson of Veer Savarkar Ranjit Savarkar accused Congress of defaming his grandfather ahead of upcoming elections.&nbsp;

He said that the Congress was attempting to divide Hindu society along caste lines, a strategy reminiscent of British colonial-era policies.

"This is a strategy of Congress to defame Savarkar time and again, particularly when elections are coming. Earlier, Rahul Gandhi was doing it, and now his leaders are making statements... Congress has shown its real face," Ranjit Savarkar said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao made a controversial remark about Hindutva ideologue Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, saying that he consumed meat and possibly beef, triggering off the next major political controversy ahead of the assembly election in Maharashtra.

Karnataka health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao made a controversial remark about Hindutva ideologue Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, saying that he consumed meat and possibly beef, triggering off the next major political controversy ahead of the assembly election in Maharashtra. Karnataka minister further said that Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, was not a fundamentalist but Savarkar was. Following the remarks, both the Shiv Sena and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) condemned the remarks, calling them an insult to the freedom fighter. Moreover, the BJP also started protesting and Savarkar's grandson even threatened to file a defamation suit against the Karnataka leader. "Savarkar, a 'Chitpavan Brahmin', used to eat meat. He was a non-veg eater and he was not against cow slaughter... Some say that he used to eat beef as well. As a Brahmin, he used to eat meat and was openly propagating eating meat," Rao said. Also read: India: Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut sentenced to 15 days in jail in defamation case BJP national spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi criticised Congress and demanded that the party name any of its top leaders who were handed down double life imprisonment and lodged at the cellular jail in Andaman-Nicobar Islands by the British. "Insulting Veer Savarkar, who was an inspiration to revolutionaries in the country, is akin to spitting on the moon," BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh said. "Kanhaiya Kumar, who raises 'Bharat tere tukde honge' slogan, is embraced. Red carpet is rolled out for those who consider Afzal Guru (Parliament attack convict) a hero...What kind of 'mohabbat ki dukan' Rahul Gandhi has opened where the martyrs and freedom fighters are insulted?" he added. Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam also condemned the statement and warned the Congress party against repeatedly maligning Savarkar, revered by many in Maharashtra for his role in India’s freedom struggle. "Once again, the Congress party has made a very low-level comment against Swatantra Veer Savarkar. The statement made by the Karnataka Health Minister is completely condemnable; it is an insult to him," Nirupam said in a video. "I want to tell the Congress and threaten them that the people of Maharashtra love Savarkar ji very much and if they keep insulting him like this again and again, then the people of Maharashtra will bury the Congress party in the ground, so the Congress party should stop insulting Savarkar," he said. Meanwhile, the grandson of Veer Savarkar Ranjit Savarkar accused Congress of defaming his grandfather ahead of upcoming elections. He said that the Congress was attempting to divide Hindu society along caste lines, a strategy reminiscent of British colonial-era policies. "This is a strategy of Congress to defame Savarkar time and again, particularly when elections are coming. Earlier, Rahul Gandhi was doing it, and now his leaders are making statements... Congress has shown its real face," Ranjit Savarkar said. (With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka minister says 'Savarkar used to eat meat', sparks outrage

India was kept in loop as the United Kingdom and Mauritius decided on the future of Chagos Archipelago, key Indian ocean islands, which also host a US base. Under an agreement announced by the two countries on Thursday, the UK relinquished its claim to Chagos&nbsp;and handed over sovereignty to Mauritius. But London will retain authority over Diego Garcia for 99 years to ensure the continued operation of the joint UK/US military base.&nbsp;

The joint statement by the two sides stated, "In reaching today’s political agreement, we have enjoyed the full support and assistance of our close partners, the United States of America and the Republic of India". The deal comes after 11 rounds of negotiations between the UK and Mauritius, which started in 2022. UK's previous foreign secretary, James Cleverly, in 2022, while informing the British Parliament about the negotiations on the future of Chagos, said that London recognises India &amp; US "interests" on the issue and "will keep them informed of the progress".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/historic-uk-transfers-chagos-islands-sovereignty-to-mauritius-764204">'Historic': UK transfers sovereignty of Chagos Islands to Mauritius</a>

The development is significant for Delhi, not only because the security of the Indian Ocean region is at stake, but also because it involves teo close partners, Mauritius and UK. India has consistently supported Mauritius's claim over the Chagos Archipelago, a policy grounded on decolonization. Earlier this year, during a visit to Mauritius, India's EAM Dr S Jaishankar said, "On the issue of Chagos, India will continue its consistent support to Mauritius in line with its principal stand on decolonization and support for sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations."

On security front, the deal allows the US-UK Base to continue in Diego Garcia amid growing influence of the Chinese in the Indian Ocean region. This also has wider ramifications in the Indo-Pacific region, in which UK, US, Mauritius and India are key stakeholders.

The British high commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron, in a statement said, "This agreement enables deeper cooperation with India in the Indian Ocean, strengthening global security and averting threats to peace and prosperity in the wider Indo-Pacific."

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Welcome deal today between the UK and Mauritius. This agreement enables deeper cooperation with India in the Indian Ocean, strengthening global security and averting threats to peace and prosperity in the wider Indo-Pacific. <a href="https://t.co/KyDQqO1fgw">https://t.co/KyDQqO1fgw</a>
— Lindy Cameron (@Lindy_Cameron) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lindy_Cameron/status/1841836334886867127?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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India has welcomed the agreement. The MEA said in a statement, "The resolution of the longstanding Chagos dispute after two years of negotiations, in compliance with international law, is a welcome development." 
 
Delhi clearly has played a quiet but important role in the background. Sources said, "India consistently encouraged both sides to negotiate with an open mind and with a view to achieving mutually beneficial outcomes."&nbsp;The sources pointed that the 'final outcome is a win for all sides involved and will reinforce long term security in the Indian Ocean region'.

Garcia is a significant U.S. military outpost, which impacts the balance of power in the Indian Ocean region. Established in early 1970s, following UK-US pact, it was from this base that US got major support during the Gulf war in 1990s, Afghanistan in 2021, and the invasion of Iraq in 2023. It provides the US military an operational advantage over west Asia, Africa, and Asia as it serves as a key hub for aerial refuelling, surveillance, and bomber operations.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/work-with-us-cia-launches-hiring-drive-in-iran-n-korea-and-china-after-success-in-russia-764179">‘Work with us,’ CIA launches hiring drives in Iran, North Korea and China after success in Russia</a>

US President Biden has welcomed the pact that has been announced. In 2019, the ICJ advised that the UK should end its administration of the Chagos Archipelago, essentially supporting Mauritius's claim. In May 2023, the UN General Assembly overwhelmingly voted to support Mauritius's claim, urging the UK to withdraw its administration from the Chagos Archipelago.

(With inputs from agencies)

India was kept in loop as the United Kingdom and Mauritius decided on the future of Chagos Archipelago, key Indian ocean islands, which also host a US base. Under an agreement announced by the two countries on Thursday, the UK relinquished its claim to Chagos and handed over sovereignty to Mauritius.

India was kept in loop as the United Kingdom and Mauritius decided on the future of Chagos Archipelago, key Indian ocean islands, which also host a US base. Under an agreement announced by the two countries on Thursday, the UK relinquished its claim to Chagos and handed over sovereignty to Mauritius. But London will retain authority over Diego Garcia for 99 years to ensure the continued operation of the joint UK/US military base. The joint statement by the two sides stated, "In reaching today’s political agreement, we have enjoyed the full support and assistance of our close partners, the United States of America and the Republic of India". The deal comes after 11 rounds of negotiations between the UK and Mauritius, which started in 2022. UK's previous foreign secretary, James Cleverly, in 2022, while informing the British Parliament about the negotiations on the future of Chagos, said that London recognises India & US "interests" on the issue and "will keep them informed of the progress". Also read: 'Historic': UK transfers sovereignty of Chagos Islands to Mauritius The development is significant for Delhi, not only because the security of the Indian Ocean region is at stake, but also because it involves teo close partners, Mauritius and UK. India has consistently supported Mauritius's claim over the Chagos Archipelago, a policy grounded on decolonization. Earlier this year, during a visit to Mauritius, India's EAM Dr S Jaishankar said, "On the issue of Chagos, India will continue its consistent support to Mauritius in line with its principal stand on decolonization and support for sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations." On security front, the deal allows the US-UK Base to continue in Diego Garcia amid growing influence of the Chinese in the Indian Ocean region. This also has wider ramifications in the Indo-Pacific region, in which UK, US, Mauritius and India are key stakeholders. The British high commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron, in a statement said, "This agreement enables deeper cooperation with India in the Indian Ocean, strengthening global security and averting threats to peace and prosperity in the wider Indo-Pacific." Welcome deal today between the UK and Mauritius. This agreement enables deeper cooperation with India in the Indian Ocean, strengthening global security and averting threats to peace and prosperity in the wider Indo-Pacific. https://t.co/KyDQqO1fgw — Lindy Cameron (@Lindy_Cameron) October 3, 2024 × India has welcomed the agreement. The MEA said in a statement, "The resolution of the longstanding Chagos dispute after two years of negotiations, in compliance with international law, is a welcome development." Delhi clearly has played a quiet but important role in the background. Sources said, "India consistently encouraged both sides to negotiate with an open mind and with a view to achieving mutually beneficial outcomes." The sources pointed that the 'final outcome is a win for all sides involved and will reinforce long term security in the Indian Ocean region'. Garcia is a significant U.S. military outpost, which impacts the balance of power in the Indian Ocean region. Established in early 1970s, following UK-US pact, it was from this base that US got major support during the Gulf war in 1990s, Afghanistan in 2021, and the invasion of Iraq in 2023. It provides the US military an operational advantage over west Asia, Africa, and Asia as it serves as a key hub for aerial refuelling, surveillance, and bomber operations. Also read: ‘Work with us,’ CIA launches hiring drives in Iran, North Korea and China after success in Russia US President Biden has welcomed the pact that has been announced. In 2019, the ICJ advised that the UK should end its administration of the Chagos Archipelago, essentially supporting Mauritius's claim. In May 2023, the UN General Assembly overwhelmingly voted to support Mauritius's claim, urging the UK to withdraw its administration from the Chagos Archipelago. (With inputs from agencies)

India kept in loop as Mauritius, UK agree on Indian Ocean archipelago's future

Ladakh&nbsp;activist&nbsp;Sonam Wangchuk, who was detained by the Delhi Police, was released from Bawana Police Station on Wednesday (Oct 2) evening. Wangchuk said the home ministry had assured him of a meeting with either the prime minister or president soon to address his concerns.&nbsp;

Wangchuk, along with around 120 others from&nbsp;Ladakh, was detained on Monday night, September 30, 2024, at the&nbsp;Delhi-Haryana border.&nbsp;

“We faced some difficulties upon arriving in Delhi due to the detention, but everything happens for a reason, and we are glad that our message of environmental conservation reached more people. We have submitted a memorandum to the government, urging protection for Ladakh under constitutional provisions to safeguard the Himalayas,” said Wangchuk.

Wangchuk and his supporters were detained while marching from Leh to Delhi to demand constitutional safeguards for&nbsp;Ladakh. The march, which began on September 1, was set to culminate at Rajghat on October 2, Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-activist-sonam-wangchuk-and-others-detained-in-delhi-launch-indefinite-fast-763482">Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;India: Activist Sonam Wangchuk and others detained in Delhi, launch indefinite fast</a>

Earlier,&nbsp;Ladakh's Member of Parliament,&nbsp;Mohmad Haneefa, was released by the&nbsp;Delhi police, the MP confirmed.&nbsp;

Haneefa was detained by&nbsp;Delhi police&nbsp;on Tuesday, a day after more than hundred protesters from&nbsp;Ladakh, including&nbsp;Sonam Wangchuk, were held at the&nbsp;Delhi-Haryana border.&nbsp;

On October 1, the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) and Apex Body, Leh had called for a bandh across&nbsp;Ladakh&nbsp;following the detention of renowned activist&nbsp;Sonam Wangchuk&nbsp;on Monday night.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-is-sonam-wangchuk-on-a-hunger-strike-in-ladakh-what-are-his-demands-702624" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;Why is Sonam Wangchuk on a hunger strike in Ladakh? What are his demands?</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-is-sonam-wangchuk-on-a-hunger-strike-in-ladakh-what-are-his-demands-702624/embed" width="560"></iframe>

Shops in&nbsp;Ladakh&nbsp;were closed as residents demanded Wangchuk's release and advocated for the sixth schedule to safeguard the region's rights. Wangchuk and other volunteers had embarked on a foot march from Leh to New Delhi to urge the Centre to resume dialogue with&nbsp;Ladakh's leadership regarding their demands.&nbsp;

One of their key demands is for&nbsp;Ladakh&nbsp;to be included in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, granting law-making powers to the local population to protect their land and cultural identity.&nbsp;

The march was organised by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) in coordination with the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), both of which have been leading an agitation for the past four years.

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.

Ladakh activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was detained by the Delhi Police, was released from Bawana Police Station on Wednesday (Oct 2) evening. Wangchuk said the home ministry had assured him of a meeting with either the prime minister or president soon to address his concerns.

Ladakh activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was detained by the Delhi Police, was released from Bawana Police Station on Wednesday (Oct 2) evening. Wangchuk said the home ministry had assured him of a meeting with either the prime minister or president soon to address his concerns. Wangchuk, along with around 120 others from Ladakh, was detained on Monday night, September 30, 2024, at the Delhi-Haryana border. “We faced some difficulties upon arriving in Delhi due to the detention, but everything happens for a reason, and we are glad that our message of environmental conservation reached more people. We have submitted a memorandum to the government, urging protection for Ladakh under constitutional provisions to safeguard the Himalayas,” said Wangchuk. Wangchuk and his supporters were detained while marching from Leh to Delhi to demand constitutional safeguards for Ladakh. The march, which began on September 1, was set to culminate at Rajghat on October 2, Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary. Also read | India: Activist Sonam Wangchuk and others detained in Delhi, launch indefinite fast Earlier, Ladakh's Member of Parliament, Mohmad Haneefa, was released by the Delhi police, the MP confirmed. Haneefa was detained by Delhi police on Tuesday, a day after more than hundred protesters from Ladakh, including Sonam Wangchuk, were held at the Delhi-Haryana border. On October 1, the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) and Apex Body, Leh had called for a bandh across Ladakh following the detention of renowned activist Sonam Wangchuk on Monday night. Watch | Why is Sonam Wangchuk on a hunger strike in Ladakh? What are his demands? Shops in Ladakh were closed as residents demanded Wangchuk's release and advocated for the sixth schedule to safeguard the region's rights. Wangchuk and other volunteers had embarked on a foot march from Leh to New Delhi to urge the Centre to resume dialogue with Ladakh's leadership regarding their demands. One of their key demands is for Ladakh to be included in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, granting law-making powers to the local population to protect their land and cultural identity. The march was organised by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) in coordination with the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), both of which have been leading an agitation for the past four years. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India: Activist Sonam Wangchuk released from detention; to meet PM Modi or president soon

The Karnataka government has issued a health advisory after discovering cancer-causing substances in 12 cake samples. The advisory highlights the potential health risks linked to these popular desserts.

The Karnataka government has issued a health advisory after discovering cancer-causing substances in 12 cake samples. The advisory highlights the potential health risks linked to these popular desserts. Previous bans on harmful chemicals in food This move follows earlier steps by the Karnataka government, such as banning Rhodamine-B, a colouring agent often found in dishes like gobi manchurian and cotton candy. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has warned that strict action will be taken against sellers using harmful chemicals in food. Rhodamine-B, usually used in textile dyeing and paper production, has been a cause for concern due to its use in enhancing food's visual appeal, as per media reports. Cancer-causing substances found in cakes in Bengaluru The Karnataka Food Safety and Quality Department revealed that tests on cakes from Bengaluru bakeries found carcinogenic chemicals in 12 out of 235 samples. While 223 samples were considered safe, the remaining 12 contained dangerous levels of artificial colours. Cakes such as red velvet and black forest, which often rely on these synthetic dyes for their vibrant appearance, were identified as health risks. List of harmful substances detected in cakes The harmful substances detected include Allura Red, Sunset Yellow FCF, Ponceau 4R, Tartrazine, and Carmoisine. These chemicals not only raise cancer risks but could also lead to other physical and mental health issues. Also read: SC stays Tamil Nadu police action against Sadhguru’s Isha Foundation Popular cake varieties like red velvet and black forest, which use these bright colours, pose serious health risks, the food safety department stated. Food safety department issues warnings to bakeries The department has directed bakeries to follow safety regulations and avoid using artificial colours like Allura Red, Sunset Yellow FCF, Ponceau 4R, Tartrazine, and Carmoisine. The department has also urged bakers to strictly follow food safety guidelines and avoid exceeding the permitted limits for artificial colours, as laid out in the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011. Section 16 of these rules specifically bans the use of artificial colours in dishes like gobi manchurian, reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting public health. (With inputs from agencies)

Your favourite cake might be hiding dangerous cancer-causing chemicals: Karnataka govt issues warning

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