National Handloom Day 2026: From Alia Bhatt to Samantha Ruth Prabhu; Actresses who celebrated India's textile heritage as brides

The Royals enter the Doctor Who universe: King Charles and Queen Camilla beam into Commonwealth Games in TARDIS

Unitree Robotics targets $9 billion valuation in landmark IPO backed by DeepSeek and Tencent

India names 27 sites in Arunachal Pradesh

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata OTT: When will Kangana Ranaut's film stream online?

How many soldiers operate one S-400 battery?

Shakib Al Hasan ready to return to Bangladesh—under one condition

‘Fake news’: MEA rejects report claiming India sought defence pact with Israel after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey deal

Rockstar to unveil GTA 6 extended look ahead of November launch

Russia forms Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade to fight Ukraine

Drug-resistant fungus that hides in hair and enters bloodstream reported in 23 US states

Technology transfer deal boosts India's defence manufacturing ambitions

Border row erupts in Europe after Ceuta crossings, Spain imposes border controls on Italy

Morale plummets on USS Abraham Lincoln: Are US sailors reaching a breaking point? | GRAVITAS

'Security can't be bought with Pakistan, Turkey deal': Iran tells Saudi Arabia

Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside

Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella vows to ‘defeat narco-terrorists’, signals hardline shift

New Friday OTT releases (August 7, 2026): Operation Safed Sagar, Vadhandhi, Main Vaapis Aaunga- 6 movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth scripts history as Indian Air Force gets its first woman ‘Top Gun’ pilot

RSS says Gen Z protests reflect genuine distress

Trump says Iranian school bombing photos could be AI-generated - 'I don’t think...'

IAF officer held for sharing sensitive information in 'honey trap' case, booked under Official Secrets Act

Stray Kids under scrutiny? Fans react to Grammy submission silence after BTS boycott

Why the Su-30MKI doesn't need external fuel tanks to fly vast distances

Jugal Hansraj reunites with Shekhar Kapur after 40 years for Masoom: The Next Generation

New speed limits, automatic challans: Big traffic change coming to Delhi-Meerut Expressway. All you need to know

India officially names 27 places in Arunachal to counter China's renaming claims

Trump calls White House ballroom ruling a 'national disgrace' as court says Congress approval needed

US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance

Why the Su-30MKI is one of the heaviest fighters ever built

Uttarakhand young innovator builds India's own flying vehicle, conducts first test flight: WATCH

Chilling video shows students take cover as teen opens fire at Thai school

Reese Witherspoon's father hospitalised after poolside incident in Nashville: Report

<p>Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi, currently on a trip to the US, met prominent lawmakers of the country at the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington on Tuesday (Sep 10). Among the political bigwigs, Gandhi's meeting with&nbsp;Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, known for her anti-India stance has become the centre of controversy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gandhi, who has been interacting with the diaspora as well as students and faculty at various universities has already received flak for his comments regarding the Sikh community. His meeting with Omar, known for taking pronounced anti-India positions is expected to invite the opposition parties to drive into him.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> met with U.S. lawmakers at the Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, D.C.<br />
<br />
Attendees:<br />
<br />
•Hosted by Congressman Bradley James Sherman<br />
•Congressman Jonathan Jackson<br />
•Congressman Ro Khanna<br />
•Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi<br />
•Congresswoman Barbara Lee… <a href="https://t.co/zVUJz5VmrW">pic.twitter.com/zVUJz5VmrW</a></p>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1833557561640956169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>BJP reacts</strong></h2>

<p>Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) immediately latched onto the opportunity and called out Gandhi for trying to play divisive politics.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"After spewing venom against Sikhs &amp; running down India on foreign soil now Rahul Gandhi meets &amp; engages with anti-India Ilhan Omar," BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla wrote on X (formerly Twitter).</p>

<p>"Why did Rahul Gandhi have to meet her? Why is he engaging with the most radical anti-India elements on every foreign trip? In BJP virodh - desh virodh is ok?'</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">After spewing venom against Sikhs &amp; running down India on foreign soil now Rahul Gandhi meets &amp; engages with anti India Ilhan Omar - 1) Ilhan had introduced anti India resolutions in US Congress 2) She has been against abrogation of Art 370 3) She violated India’s sovereignty &amp;… <a href="https://t.co/3YndaPSLa4">pic.twitter.com/3YndaPSLa4</a></p>
— Shehzad Jai Hind (Modi Ka Parivar) (@Shehzad_Ind) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shehzad_Ind/status/1833709663931499002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Who is Ilhan Omar?</strong></h2>

<p>Omar is a Democrat leader, currently&nbsp;serving as the US representative for Minnesota’s 5th congressional district since 2019. The&nbsp;annual House financial disclosure last year revealed that Omar's controversial visit to Pakistan and&nbsp;Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in 2022 was sponsored by the Pakistani government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During her visit, Omar engaged in discussions with then-Pakistan prime minister Shahbaz Sharif and Hina Rabbani Khar, former minister of state for foreign affairs.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-congresswoman-ilhan-omars-controversial-visit-to-pok-sponsored-by-islamabad-626645"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;US Congresswoman Ilhan Omar's controversial visit to PoK was sponsored by Pakistan</strong></a></p>

<p>In the same year, Omar brought a resolution in the US Congress criticising New Delhi for alleged human rights abuses, particularly targeting Muslims. The Democrat leader demanded that India be designated as a "country of particular concern".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Omar also batted for the White House to support Canada's investigation into India's alleged role in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's death.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi, currently on a trip to the US, met prominent lawmakers of the country at the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington on Tuesday (Sep 10).

Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi, currently on a trip to the US, met prominent lawmakers of the country at the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington on Tuesday (Sep 10). Among the political bigwigs, Gandhi's meeting with Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, known for her anti-India stance has become the centre of controversy. Gandhi, who has been interacting with the diaspora as well as students and faculty at various universities has already received flak for his comments regarding the Sikh community. His meeting with Omar, known for taking pronounced anti-India positions is expected to invite the opposition parties to drive into him. Shri @RahulGandhi met with U.S. lawmakers at the Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, D.C. Attendees: •Hosted by Congressman Bradley James Sherman •Congressman Jonathan Jackson •Congressman Ro Khanna •Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi •Congresswoman Barbara Lee… pic.twitter.com/zVUJz5VmrW — Congress (@INCIndia) September 10, 2024 × BJP reacts Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) immediately latched onto the opportunity and called out Gandhi for trying to play divisive politics. "After spewing venom against Sikhs & running down India on foreign soil now Rahul Gandhi meets & engages with anti-India Ilhan Omar," BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla wrote on X (formerly Twitter). "Why did Rahul Gandhi have to meet her? Why is he engaging with the most radical anti-India elements on every foreign trip? In BJP virodh - desh virodh is ok?' After spewing venom against Sikhs & running down India on foreign soil now Rahul Gandhi meets & engages with anti India Ilhan Omar - 1) Ilhan had introduced anti India resolutions in US Congress 2) She has been against abrogation of Art 370 3) She violated India’s sovereignty &… pic.twitter.com/3YndaPSLa4 — Shehzad Jai Hind (Modi Ka Parivar) (@Shehzad_Ind) September 11, 2024 × Who is Ilhan Omar? Omar is a Democrat leader, currently serving as the US representative for Minnesota’s 5th congressional district since 2019. The annual House financial disclosure last year revealed that Omar's controversial visit to Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in 2022 was sponsored by the Pakistani government. During her visit, Omar engaged in discussions with then-Pakistan prime minister Shahbaz Sharif and Hina Rabbani Khar, former minister of state for foreign affairs. Also read | US Congresswoman Ilhan Omar's controversial visit to PoK was sponsored by Pakistan In the same year, Omar brought a resolution in the US Congress criticising New Delhi for alleged human rights abuses, particularly targeting Muslims. The Democrat leader demanded that India be designated as a "country of particular concern". Omar also batted for the White House to support Canada's investigation into India's alleged role in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's death. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Ilhan Omar, US Congresswoman who met Rahul Gandhi in Washington

<p>India is taking steady steps to boost its semiconductor ecosystem. The US Department of State recently partnered with India’s Semiconductor Mission to explore opportunities for expanding and diversifying the semiconductor sector, ANI reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes days after India signed a semiconductor ecosystem partnership with Singapore during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The recent announcement by the US also has significance. PM Modi is expected to travel to Washington from Sep 21-24 to attend the Quad leaders’ summit- The Summit of the Future along with a diaspora event.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The US Department of State will partner with the India Semiconductor Mission, Ministry of Electronics and IT, Government of India, to explore opportunities to grow and diversify the global semiconductor ecosystem under the International Technology Security and Innovation (ITSI) Fund, created by the CHIPS Act of 2022,” the US State Department said in a statement on Monday.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-ilhan-omar-us-congresswoman-who-met-rahul-gandhi-in-washington-757707">Who is Ilhan Omar, US Congresswoman who met Rahul Gandhi in Washington</a></p>

<p>US Deputy Secretary of State, Kurt Campbell, said that India and the US are more aligned than ever. The two nations are not just collaborating in the semiconductor industry but also working together in sectors such as space and artificial intelligence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The collaboration between the US and India will look forward to expanding India’s semiconductor industry which will benefit both nations, according to the official statement.</p>

<p>“US and India are key partners in ensuring the global semiconductor supply chain keeping pace with the global digital transformation currently underway.”</p>

<p>In August 2022, US President Joe Biden signed the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) Act, a US law dedicated to boosting domestic manufacturing and research of semiconductors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch |&nbsp;<strong>US - India team up for chip supply boost</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-india-team-up-for-chip-supply-boost-757328/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The CHIPS and Science Act is intended to lure microchip manufacturing back to the US after decades of companies offshoring the technology. Although the country produced close to 40 per cent of the world’s semiconductor supply in 1990, that statistic has slipped to just 12 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Taiwan, on the other hand, produces more than 60 per cent of the world’s supply of semiconductors and more than 90 per cent of the most advanced chips, according to the US-based think tank Council on Foreign Relations.</p>

<p>When it comes to India, the country has 20 per cent of the world’s semiconductor design workforce, as per the KPMG report. The semiconductor industry is rapidly evolving and becoming a thriving domestic market in India, all of which are conducive to building an indigenous semiconductor ecosystem.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/centre-opposition-trade-barbs-to-call-sebi-chief-before-the-public-accounts-committee-report-757656">Centre, opposition trade barbs to call SEBI chief before the Public Accounts Committee: Report</a></p>

<p>The India Semiconductor Mission was launched in 2021 with a Rs 76,000 crore chip incentive scheme, under which the central government offered half the plant’s capital expenditure costs as subsidy.</p>

<p>Given the critical importance of semiconductor chips, especially after COVID-19, in almost everything, from missiles to mobile phones and cars to computers, the partnerships with Singapore and the US have geo-strategic and geo-economic importance for India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India is taking steady steps to boost its semiconductor ecosystem. The US Department of State recently partnered with India’s Semiconductor Mission to explore opportunities for expanding and diversifying the semiconductor sector, ANI reported.

India is taking steady steps to boost its semiconductor ecosystem. The US Department of State recently partnered with India’s Semiconductor Mission to explore opportunities for expanding and diversifying the semiconductor sector, ANI reported. This comes days after India signed a semiconductor ecosystem partnership with Singapore during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit last week. The recent announcement by the US also has significance. PM Modi is expected to travel to Washington from Sep 21-24 to attend the Quad leaders’ summit- The Summit of the Future along with a diaspora event. “The US Department of State will partner with the India Semiconductor Mission, Ministry of Electronics and IT, Government of India, to explore opportunities to grow and diversify the global semiconductor ecosystem under the International Technology Security and Innovation (ITSI) Fund, created by the CHIPS Act of 2022,” the US State Department said in a statement on Monday. Also Read | Who is Ilhan Omar, US Congresswoman who met Rahul Gandhi in Washington US Deputy Secretary of State, Kurt Campbell, said that India and the US are more aligned than ever. The two nations are not just collaborating in the semiconductor industry but also working together in sectors such as space and artificial intelligence. The collaboration between the US and India will look forward to expanding India’s semiconductor industry which will benefit both nations, according to the official statement. “US and India are key partners in ensuring the global semiconductor supply chain keeping pace with the global digital transformation currently underway.” In August 2022, US President Joe Biden signed the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) Act, a US law dedicated to boosting domestic manufacturing and research of semiconductors. Watch | US - India team up for chip supply boost × The CHIPS and Science Act is intended to lure microchip manufacturing back to the US after decades of companies offshoring the technology. Although the country produced close to 40 per cent of the world’s semiconductor supply in 1990, that statistic has slipped to just 12 per cent. Taiwan, on the other hand, produces more than 60 per cent of the world’s supply of semiconductors and more than 90 per cent of the most advanced chips, according to the US-based think tank Council on Foreign Relations. When it comes to India, the country has 20 per cent of the world’s semiconductor design workforce, as per the KPMG report. The semiconductor industry is rapidly evolving and becoming a thriving domestic market in India, all of which are conducive to building an indigenous semiconductor ecosystem. Also Read | Centre, opposition trade barbs to call SEBI chief before the Public Accounts Committee: Report The India Semiconductor Mission was launched in 2021 with a Rs 76,000 crore chip incentive scheme, under which the central government offered half the plant’s capital expenditure costs as subsidy. Given the critical importance of semiconductor chips, especially after COVID-19, in almost everything, from missiles to mobile phones and cars to computers, the partnerships with Singapore and the US have geo-strategic and geo-economic importance for India. (With inputs from agencies)

India enters US global chip alliance to boost semiconductor ecosystem

IMD has issued red, orange, and yellow alerts across various states in India due to heavy monsoon rains, urging caution as relief efforts continue with NDRF teams on the ground.

IMD Issues Red Alert for Telangana and Andhra, Yellow for Maha and Uttarakhand | WION Originals

<p>With sights firmly set on the Indian Air Force's requirement for 40-80 Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA), Tata-Lockheed Martin is expanding their existing collaboration in India. The Indo-American venture has entered into an agreement to establish a Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in&nbsp;India&nbsp;to support the Indian Air Force's (IAF) existing C130J fleet comprising 12 aircraft, as well as other global Super Hercules fleets. The C-130 is a versatile tactical airlifter that has been in operation for more than 70 years, fulfilling the roles of transportation of troops, supplies, equipment, and special operations, under challenging scenarios.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Presently, all C130Js are built at the Super Hercules production facility in&nbsp;Marietta,&nbsp;Georgia, USA. Since 2010, the Tata Lockheed Martin Aerostructures Ltd., (TLMAL) joint venture in Hyderabad, Southern India, has been building the tail structures of the C-130Js and is the only global source for this component. To date, TLMAL has manufactured more than 220 C-130J empennages. Further, Tata and Lockheed are looking to carry out&nbsp;manufacturing and assembly of C130Js in&nbsp;India, to produce aircraft for the IAF's Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program, subject to approvals from the US and Indian governments. Lockheed Martin will establish additional production and assembly capacity in&nbsp;India&nbsp;if awarded the MTA contract, the firm said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjQ0pOM0biIAxVZ1jgGHamFDuAQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/probe-ordered-after-iaf-jet-inadvertently-releases-air-store-near-pokhran-752066" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/probe-ordered-after-iaf-jet-inadvertently-releases-air-store-near-pokhran-752066&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjQ0pOM0biIAxVZ1jgGHamFDuAQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Probe ordered after IAF jet ‘inadvertently’ releases ‘air store’ near Pokhran</a></strong></p>

<p>"Collaborating with Lockheed Martin on the C-130J platform proposition for IAF's MTA project is a milestone for Tata Advanced Systems," said Sukaran Singh, CEO &amp; MD of Tata Advanced Systems. "The current announcement is also significant as it marks the entry of Tata Advanced Systems into the defence MRO space in&nbsp;India&nbsp;for large aircraft platforms," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since 2011, the Indian Air Force has been operating the C-130J aircraft, and has carried out landings at the world's highest airfield, Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO), in Ladakh's Depsang Valley, daring night operations in inclement weather. The global C-130J fleet spans 27 operators in 23 nations. These aircraft are used for search and rescue, peacekeeping, combat delivery, maritime patrol, special operations, aerial refueling, commercial cargo transport, medevac and humanitarian response missions.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Indian Air Force's Requirement for Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA)</strong></h2>

<p>According to the Indian Air Force's Request for Information (RFI), they are looking at an aircraft with 18-27 tons load carrying capacity.&nbsp;The three potential contenders in this contest are the Lockheed Martin C-130J, Embraer C-390 and Airbus A400M. However, each of these aircraft offers different lift capabilities. While the C-130J and A400M are powered by turboprop engines, the C-390 uses jet engines.</p>

<p>In 2023, the IAF began inducting the Airbus C-295MW planes, gradually replacing its fleet of HS-748 Avro aircraft. IAF had placed orders for 56 planes from Airbus, of which, the first 16 are to be fully made abroad. Whereas, the remaining 40 would be made by Airbus and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), in Gujarat. While it is common for a force to maintain more aircraft of a similar make, the C-295, with its lifting capacity of 9 tonnes does not qualify for the Medium Transport Aircraft requirement.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjQ0pOM0biIAxVZ1jgGHamFDuAQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-indian-navy-might-end-up-paying-twice-the-amount-iaf-had-paid-for-the-fighter-jets-claims-report-727329" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-indian-navy-might-end-up-paying-twice-the-amount-iaf-had-paid-for-the-fighter-jets-claims-report-727329&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjQ0pOM0biIAxVZ1jgGHamFDuAQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE">Rafale: Indian Navy might end up paying twice the amount IAF had paid for the fighter jets, claims report</a></strong></p>

<p>Notably, in recent decades, India has been purchasing a significant number of American Aviation platforms, including Lockheed Martin C-130J planes and MH-60R helicopters, Boeing's C-17 Globemaster III strategic airlifter, Apache attack helicopters, Chinook heavy-lift helicopters, and Poseidon-8I long-range maritime surveillance planes. However, India has never purchased American fighter jets. India's fighter fleet comprises Russian-origin and European-origin jets.&nbsp;</p>


With sights firmly set on the Indian Air Force's requirement for 40-80 Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA), Tata-Lockheed Martin is expanding their existing collaboration in India.

With sights firmly set on the Indian Air Force's requirement for 40-80 Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA), Tata-Lockheed Martin is expanding their existing collaboration in India. The Indo-American venture has entered into an agreement to establish a Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India to support the Indian Air Force's (IAF) existing C130J fleet comprising 12 aircraft, as well as other global Super Hercules fleets. The C-130 is a versatile tactical airlifter that has been in operation for more than 70 years, fulfilling the roles of transportation of troops, supplies, equipment, and special operations, under challenging scenarios. Presently, all C130Js are built at the Super Hercules production facility in Marietta, Georgia, USA. Since 2010, the Tata Lockheed Martin Aerostructures Ltd., (TLMAL) joint venture in Hyderabad, Southern India, has been building the tail structures of the C-130Js and is the only global source for this component. To date, TLMAL has manufactured more than 220 C-130J empennages. Further, Tata and Lockheed are looking to carry out manufacturing and assembly of C130Js in India, to produce aircraft for the IAF's Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program, subject to approvals from the US and Indian governments. Lockheed Martin will establish additional production and assembly capacity in India if awarded the MTA contract, the firm said. Also read: Probe ordered after IAF jet ‘inadvertently’ releases ‘air store’ near Pokhran "Collaborating with Lockheed Martin on the C-130J platform proposition for IAF's MTA project is a milestone for Tata Advanced Systems," said Sukaran Singh, CEO & MD of Tata Advanced Systems. "The current announcement is also significant as it marks the entry of Tata Advanced Systems into the defence MRO space in India for large aircraft platforms," he added. Since 2011, the Indian Air Force has been operating the C-130J aircraft, and has carried out landings at the world's highest airfield, Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO), in Ladakh's Depsang Valley, daring night operations in inclement weather. The global C-130J fleet spans 27 operators in 23 nations. These aircraft are used for search and rescue, peacekeeping, combat delivery, maritime patrol, special operations, aerial refueling, commercial cargo transport, medevac and humanitarian response missions. Indian Air Force's Requirement for Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) According to the Indian Air Force's Request for Information (RFI), they are looking at an aircraft with 18-27 tons load carrying capacity. The three potential contenders in this contest are the Lockheed Martin C-130J, Embraer C-390 and Airbus A400M. However, each of these aircraft offers different lift capabilities. While the C-130J and A400M are powered by turboprop engines, the C-390 uses jet engines. In 2023, the IAF began inducting the Airbus C-295MW planes, gradually replacing its fleet of HS-748 Avro aircraft. IAF had placed orders for 56 planes from Airbus, of which, the first 16 are to be fully made abroad. Whereas, the remaining 40 would be made by Airbus and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), in Gujarat. While it is common for a force to maintain more aircraft of a similar make, the C-295, with its lifting capacity of 9 tonnes does not qualify for the Medium Transport Aircraft requirement. Also read: Rafale: Indian Navy might end up paying twice the amount IAF had paid for the fighter jets, claims report Notably, in recent decades, India has been purchasing a significant number of American Aviation platforms, including Lockheed Martin C-130J planes and MH-60R helicopters, Boeing's C-17 Globemaster III strategic airlifter, Apache attack helicopters, Chinook heavy-lift helicopters, and Poseidon-8I long-range maritime surveillance planes. However, India has never purchased American fighter jets. India's fighter fleet comprises Russian-origin and European-origin jets.

Eyeing aircraft deal for IAF, Tata-Lockheed to expand India operations

<p>President Droupadi Murmu has forwarded a memorandum from Bharatiya Janata Party's MLAs to the Ministry of Home Affairs, demanding the dismissal of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi as Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is currently imprisoned, which is causing delay in administrative work.&nbsp;</p>

<p>AAP responded and criticised the move. Delhi Cabinet Minister Atishi accused the BJP of trying to remove the Kejriwal government through backdoor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Atishi alleged that it was a conspiracy by BJP&nbsp;to avert certain defeat in next year's Assembly election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She said, "BJP has already accepted defeat in the upcoming Delhi elections. BJP's only job is to topple the elected government. BJP is afraid of CM Kejriwal," adding, "This is BJP's new conspiracy. BJP will get zero seats in Delhi elections."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-high-court-dismisses-bail-plea-by-cm-arvind-kejriwal-in-excise-case-747298"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;&nbsp;Delhi High Court dismisses CM Arvind Kejriwal’s plea against arrest by CBI in excise case</strong></a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, AAP's Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh also lashed out at the BJP, declaring that his party is prepared for the elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If BJP feels that it wants to lose quickly, then it should announce the date of Delhi assembly elections tomorrow itself. We are ready for the elections," Singh said.</p>

<h2><strong>BJP'S memorandum&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The memorandum highlighted the failure of the Delhi government to constitute the 6th Delhi Finance Commission and alleged inaction on the Comptroller and Auditor General's report.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Arvind Kejriwal granted interim bail but to remain in jail in CBI case</strong></p>

<main role="main">
<form accept-charset="UTF-8" action="http://13.235.153.162/admin/structure/videoembed" data-drupal-selector="video-embed-form" id="video-embed-form" method="post">
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/arvind-kejriwal-granted-interim-bail-but-to-remain-in-jail-in-cbi-case-740203/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Delhi BJP leader Vijender Gupta, in a statement, said that Kejriwal’s refusal to resign after being in jail for over four months on corruption charges has caused a "paralysis of governance."</p>
</form>
</main>

<p>He added, "Kejriwal has refused to resign, creating an unprecedented situation that has led to a complete breakdown of governance in Delhi."</p>

<p>"The complaint wasn't about the current 4-month-old government but rather about the governance of the past 10 years. We need a full account of the Delhi government's performance in the last 10 years," Gupta stressed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


President Droupadi Murmu has forwarded a memorandum from Bharatiya Janata Party's MLAs to the Ministry of Home Affairs, demanding the dismissal of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi as Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is currently imprisoned, which is causing delay in administrative work.

President Droupadi Murmu has forwarded a memorandum from Bharatiya Janata Party's MLAs to the Ministry of Home Affairs, demanding the dismissal of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi as Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is currently imprisoned, which is causing delay in administrative work. AAP responded and criticised the move. Delhi Cabinet Minister Atishi accused the BJP of trying to remove the Kejriwal government through backdoor. Atishi alleged that it was a conspiracy by BJP to avert certain defeat in next year's Assembly election. She said, "BJP has already accepted defeat in the upcoming Delhi elections. BJP's only job is to topple the elected government. BJP is afraid of CM Kejriwal," adding, "This is BJP's new conspiracy. BJP will get zero seats in Delhi elections." Also read: Delhi High Court dismisses CM Arvind Kejriwal’s plea against arrest by CBI in excise case Meanwhile, AAP's Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh also lashed out at the BJP, declaring that his party is prepared for the elections. "If BJP feels that it wants to lose quickly, then it should announce the date of Delhi assembly elections tomorrow itself. We are ready for the elections," Singh said. BJP'S memorandum The memorandum highlighted the failure of the Delhi government to constitute the 6th Delhi Finance Commission and alleged inaction on the Comptroller and Auditor General's report. Watch | Arvind Kejriwal granted interim bail but to remain in jail in CBI case × Delhi BJP leader Vijender Gupta, in a statement, said that Kejriwal’s refusal to resign after being in jail for over four months on corruption charges has caused a "paralysis of governance." He added, "Kejriwal has refused to resign, creating an unprecedented situation that has led to a complete breakdown of governance in Delhi." "The complaint wasn't about the current 4-month-old government but rather about the governance of the past 10 years. We need a full account of the Delhi government's performance in the last 10 years," Gupta stressed. (With inputs from agencies)

Aam Aadmi Party rages as President forwards BJP's demand to 'dismiss' Delhi govt

<p>India's Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Tuesday slammed Congress MP Rahul Gandhi over his remarks in the US, about the Sikh community, saying that the opposition leader is trying to create a "dangerous narrative" by speaking untruth on "sensitive issues" abroad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Union Minister, while addressing a press conference at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) headquarters in New Delhi, said that Gandhi's comments were "sinister" in nature as he tried to spread falsehood among the Sikh diaspora in the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I condemn in the strongest terms the statement he has made about Sikhs not being able to wear turbans and kadas," Puri said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think this is far more sinister because Rahul Gandhi was trying to spread a false narrative while speaking in front of those, who belong to my community and are trying to eke out a living in the US with hard work and honesty. Because they do not have much connection with the country (India)," he said.</p>

<p>Referring to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots which took place when the Congress was in power, Puri said, "If there has been one time in our history when as a community we have felt anxiety, a sense of insecurity and existential threat, it has been the times when Rahul Gandhi's family has been in the seats of power."</p>

<p>"In 1984, a pogrom was carried out against the Sikh community. As many as 3,000 innocent people were killed. People were dragged out of their homes, tyres were put around them and burnt alive," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Rahul Gandhi's remarks in the US&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Congress leader was addressing a gathering of Indian diaspora in Herndon, a Virginia suburb of Washington DC, on Monday, when he&nbsp;accused the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) of considering some religions, languages, and communities inferior to others, adding that the fight in India is about this and not about politics.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/leader-of-opposition-rahul-gandhis-us-visit-kicks-off-in-texas-aims-to-strengthen-india-us-ties-756884"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi's US visit kicks off from Texas, aims to strengthen India-US ties</strong></a></p>

<p>He said, "First of all, you have to understand what the fight is about. The fight is not about politics. That is superficial."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The fight is about whether a Sikh is going to be allowed to wear his turban in India or a kada in India. Or he, as a Sikh, is going to be able to go to Gurdwara. That's what the fight is about. And not just for him, for all religions,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi addresses the Indian diaspora in Dallas, attacks PM Modi &amp; RSS during US visit</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rahul-gandhi-addresses-the-indian-diaspora-in-dallas-attacks-pm-modi-rss-during-us-visit-757260/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Hardeep Puri further criticised Gandhi and said that he has been making statements on sensitive issues, which "involve our national identity, unity, the strength of our unity and diversity". "I think he is trying to set a new kind of narrative, which I think is a dangerous narrative," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Tuesday slammed Congress MP Rahul Gandhi over his remarks in the US, about the Sikh community, saying that the opposition leader is trying to create a "dangerous narrative" by speaking untruth on "sensitive issues" abroad.

India's Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Tuesday slammed Congress MP Rahul Gandhi over his remarks in the US, about the Sikh community, saying that the opposition leader is trying to create a "dangerous narrative" by speaking untruth on "sensitive issues" abroad. The Union Minister, while addressing a press conference at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) headquarters in New Delhi, said that Gandhi's comments were "sinister" in nature as he tried to spread falsehood among the Sikh diaspora in the US. "I condemn in the strongest terms the statement he has made about Sikhs not being able to wear turbans and kadas," Puri said. "I think this is far more sinister because Rahul Gandhi was trying to spread a false narrative while speaking in front of those, who belong to my community and are trying to eke out a living in the US with hard work and honesty. Because they do not have much connection with the country (India)," he said. Referring to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots which took place when the Congress was in power, Puri said, "If there has been one time in our history when as a community we have felt anxiety, a sense of insecurity and existential threat, it has been the times when Rahul Gandhi's family has been in the seats of power." "In 1984, a pogrom was carried out against the Sikh community. As many as 3,000 innocent people were killed. People were dragged out of their homes, tyres were put around them and burnt alive," he added. Rahul Gandhi's remarks in the US The Congress leader was addressing a gathering of Indian diaspora in Herndon, a Virginia suburb of Washington DC, on Monday, when he accused the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) of considering some religions, languages, and communities inferior to others, adding that the fight in India is about this and not about politics. Also read: Rahul Gandhi's US visit kicks off from Texas, aims to strengthen India-US ties He said, "First of all, you have to understand what the fight is about. The fight is not about politics. That is superficial." "The fight is about whether a Sikh is going to be allowed to wear his turban in India or a kada in India. Or he, as a Sikh, is going to be able to go to Gurdwara. That's what the fight is about. And not just for him, for all religions,” he added. Watch | Rahul Gandhi addresses the Indian diaspora in Dallas, attacks PM Modi & RSS during US visit × Hardeep Puri further criticised Gandhi and said that he has been making statements on sensitive issues, which "involve our national identity, unity, the strength of our unity and diversity". "I think he is trying to set a new kind of narrative, which I think is a dangerous narrative," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Dangerous narrative': Union Minister Hardeep Puri slams Rahul Gandhi over his remarks on Sikhs

<p>The country's principal opposition party, the Indian National Congress (INC), has in a fresh claim said&nbsp;that SEBI chief Madhabi Puri Buch's advisory firm and her husband, Dhaval Buch, earned nearly a million dollars from six listed companies, including automaker giant, Mahindra and Mahindra (M&amp;M).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Congress said Dhaval received $570,000 (Rs 4.78 crore) as income in a "personal capacity" from M&amp;M Group between 2019-2021.</p>

<p>It also claimed that&nbsp;Agora Pvt Ltd, an advisory service provider owned by Madhabi, and named in the Hindenburg report last month, was earning money despite the SEBI&nbsp;chief asserting that it was dormant after she took charge at the market regulator.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This company belongs to Madhabi Puri Buch and her husband, but Madhabi had denied this after the Hindenburg report came out. In that denial, he wrote that since the time it went to SEBI, this company has been dormant. But Madhabi still has 99 per cent&nbsp;stake in this company," Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sebi-chair-madhabi-puri-buch-was-employed-at-another-firm-during-icici-bank-tenure-congress-claims-756196"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;SEBI chair Madhabi Puri Buch was employed at another firm during ICICI Bank tenure, Congress claims</strong></a></p>

<p>Congress said the firm generated revenue of $351,287 (Rs 2.95 crore) between 2016-2024 and included Mahindra and&nbsp;Mahindra Limited, Dr Reddy’s, Pidilite, ICICI, Sembcorp, Visu Leasing &amp; Finance as clients.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The party added that 88 per cent of the total money that Agora Advisory received came from&nbsp;Mahindra &amp; Mahindra Group alone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If this was not shocking enough, the SEBI chairperson’s husband - Dhaval Buch received Rs 4.78 Crores as income in a personal capacity from the M&amp;M. This is in addition to the Rs 2.95 crores received by ‘Agora Advisory Private Limited’ through its consultancy/advisory services," Congress added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The party has alleged that the transfer of money&nbsp;to the firm and in Dhaval's account, cumulatively amounting to&nbsp;a million dollars, took place at a time when Madhabi, a full-time member of SEBI, was "adjudicating cases of the same group".&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/congress-sebi-chair-is-not-responding-but-icici-is-why-756320"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Congress: SEBI chair 'is not responding, but ICICI is. Why?'</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/congress-sebi-chair-is-not-responding-but-icici-is-why-756320/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Mahindra and Mahindra responds, says allegations false and misleading&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>M&amp;M responded to the allegations by terming them as&nbsp;"false and misleading in nature".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We categorically state that we have not, at any point, requested SEBI for any preferential treatment. We maintain the highest standards of corporate governance," said the company in a statement.</p>

<p>The automaker&nbsp;said Dhaval was hired by the company in 2019 specifically for&nbsp;his expertise in supply chain and sourcing, soon after he retired as Unilever's global chief procurement officer.</p>

<p>It added that Dhaval joined the company almost three years before Madhabi was appointed as SEBI chair.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dr Reddy’s Laboratories also issued a clarification. The company stated that their engagement with Agora Advisory lasted from October 2020 to April 2021, during which 'Dhaval Buch provided leadership coaching'.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The country's principal opposition party, the Indian National Congress (INC), has in a fresh claim said that SEBI chief Madhabi Puri Buch's advisory firm and her husband, Dhaval Buch, earned nearly a million dollars from six listed companies, including automaker giant, Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M).

The country's principal opposition party, the Indian National Congress (INC), has in a fresh claim said that SEBI chief Madhabi Puri Buch's advisory firm and her husband, Dhaval Buch, earned nearly a million dollars from six listed companies, including automaker giant, Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M). Congress said Dhaval received $570,000 (Rs 4.78 crore) as income in a "personal capacity" from M&M Group between 2019-2021. It also claimed that Agora Pvt Ltd, an advisory service provider owned by Madhabi, and named in the Hindenburg report last month, was earning money despite the SEBI chief asserting that it was dormant after she took charge at the market regulator. "This company belongs to Madhabi Puri Buch and her husband, but Madhabi had denied this after the Hindenburg report came out. In that denial, he wrote that since the time it went to SEBI, this company has been dormant. But Madhabi still has 99 per cent stake in this company," Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said. Also read | SEBI chair Madhabi Puri Buch was employed at another firm during ICICI Bank tenure, Congress claims Congress said the firm generated revenue of $351,287 (Rs 2.95 crore) between 2016-2024 and included Mahindra and Mahindra Limited, Dr Reddy’s, Pidilite, ICICI, Sembcorp, Visu Leasing & Finance as clients. The party added that 88 per cent of the total money that Agora Advisory received came from Mahindra & Mahindra Group alone. "If this was not shocking enough, the SEBI chairperson’s husband - Dhaval Buch received Rs 4.78 Crores as income in a personal capacity from the M&M. This is in addition to the Rs 2.95 crores received by ‘Agora Advisory Private Limited’ through its consultancy/advisory services," Congress added. The party has alleged that the transfer of money to the firm and in Dhaval's account, cumulatively amounting to a million dollars, took place at a time when Madhabi, a full-time member of SEBI, was "adjudicating cases of the same group". Watch | Congress: SEBI chair 'is not responding, but ICICI is. Why?' × Mahindra and Mahindra responds, says allegations false and misleading M&M responded to the allegations by terming them as "false and misleading in nature". "We categorically state that we have not, at any point, requested SEBI for any preferential treatment. We maintain the highest standards of corporate governance," said the company in a statement. The automaker said Dhaval was hired by the company in 2019 specifically for his expertise in supply chain and sourcing, soon after he retired as Unilever's global chief procurement officer. It added that Dhaval joined the company almost three years before Madhabi was appointed as SEBI chair. Dr Reddy’s Laboratories also issued a clarification. The company stated that their engagement with Agora Advisory lasted from October 2020 to April 2021, during which 'Dhaval Buch provided leadership coaching'. (With inputs from agencies)

Mahindra Group refutes Congress's conflict of interest claims over payments made to SEBI chair, husband

<p>As India’s eastern state of West Bengal witnesses massive outrage over the rape and murder of a junior doctor in Kolkata, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s call for “returning to (Durga) Pujo" hasn’t gone down well with the victim’s family.</p>

<p>CM Mamata said on Monday, “It has been a month (since the August 9 incident). I request you return to Pujo, return to the festivities and ask the CBI to ensure justice as soon as possible."</p>

<p>She also called on people not to continue their protests as they were ‘causing disturbance’ to people. "If you are out protesting on the roads every night, a lot of people get disturbed. Several areas have elderly people. If you use microphones, they have trouble sleeping. There are pollution control norms that you cannot use microphones after 10 pm. We have overlooked all this. It has been a month now," the CM said.</p>

<h2><strong>The victim’s parents react</strong></h2>

<p>The remarks drew sharp criticism from the victim’s parents, who asked, “What about our festivities when we have lost our daughter?” “Let her return our daughter. Would she have said the same had this happened in her family?," the statement added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Kolkata rape-murder case: 'Resignation should serve as a wake up call' - Jawhar Sircar</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kolkata-rape-murder-case-resignation-should-serve-as-a-wake-up-call-jawhar-sircar-757268/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"We celebrated Durga Puja with our daughter, we will not celebrate Durga Puja or any other festival for years to come. Her remarks are insensitive," news agency PTI quoted the parents as saying.</p>

<h2><strong>Opposition condemns statement</strong></h2>

<p>Opposition parties, including the BJP and the CPM, also came down heavily on Mamata. BJP's Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of the Opposition in Bengal Assembly, asked the CM to stop treating people like her “puppets”.</p>

<p>"(Do you think) they will stand, sit, celebrate and stop protests when you ask them to? The Pujo fortnight has not started yet, the demon is yet to be slayed. Be patient, the Mother's power has awakened, it will cleanse Bengal," he said in a post on X.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjz0Nvpr7iIAxVtzDgGHVihJB0QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-junior-doctors-say-they-will-continue-their-protest-757297" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-junior-doctors-say-they-will-continue-their-protest-757297&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjz0Nvpr7iIAxVtzDgGHVihJB0QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Junior doctors disappointed by SC hearing, to continue protest</a></strong></p>

<p>CPM leader Sujan Chakraborty stated, "Her (Banerjee) only hope is that the mass protests will fizzle out and people will shift to a celebratory mood, overlooking safety and security concerns."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As India’s eastern state of West Bengal witnesses massive outrage over the rape and murder of a junior doctor in Kolkata, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s call for “returning to (Durga) Pujo" hasn’t gone down well with the victim’s family.

As India’s eastern state of West Bengal witnesses massive outrage over the rape and murder of a junior doctor in Kolkata, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s call for “returning to (Durga) Pujo" hasn’t gone down well with the victim’s family. CM Mamata said on Monday, “It has been a month (since the August 9 incident). I request you return to Pujo, return to the festivities and ask the CBI to ensure justice as soon as possible." She also called on people not to continue their protests as they were ‘causing disturbance’ to people. "If you are out protesting on the roads every night, a lot of people get disturbed. Several areas have elderly people. If you use microphones, they have trouble sleeping. There are pollution control norms that you cannot use microphones after 10 pm. We have overlooked all this. It has been a month now," the CM said. The victim’s parents react The remarks drew sharp criticism from the victim’s parents, who asked, “What about our festivities when we have lost our daughter?” “Let her return our daughter. Would she have said the same had this happened in her family?," the statement added. Watch: Kolkata rape-murder case: 'Resignation should serve as a wake up call' - Jawhar Sircar × "We celebrated Durga Puja with our daughter, we will not celebrate Durga Puja or any other festival for years to come. Her remarks are insensitive," news agency PTI quoted the parents as saying. Opposition condemns statement Opposition parties, including the BJP and the CPM, also came down heavily on Mamata. BJP's Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of the Opposition in Bengal Assembly, asked the CM to stop treating people like her “puppets”. "(Do you think) they will stand, sit, celebrate and stop protests when you ask them to? The Pujo fortnight has not started yet, the demon is yet to be slayed. Be patient, the Mother's power has awakened, it will cleanse Bengal," he said in a post on X. Also read: Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Junior doctors disappointed by SC hearing, to continue protest CPM leader Sujan Chakraborty stated, "Her (Banerjee) only hope is that the mass protests will fizzle out and people will shift to a celebratory mood, overlooking safety and security concerns." (With inputs from agencies)

Kolkata horror: ‘Return our daughter,’ says victim’s family irked over Mamata's call for Pujo festivities

A man, who returned to India from a country currently experiencing Mpox (Monkeypox) transmission, has been identified as a suspect case of Mpox, the Ministry of Health said, adding that the person has been isolated in a hospital and is currently stable.

India confirms first travel-related mpox case

<p>India will have as many as 5,000 cyber commandos in the next five years, said Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday (Sep 10). These commandos will be a group of highly-trained police officers who will instantly respond to cyber attacks in the country&nbsp;and carry out preventive measures.</p>

<p>Shah announced at the first foundation day of the I4C- Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will have 5,000 cyber commandos in five years. These commandos will respond to cyber threats swiftly," he said.<br />
<br />
The home minister termed cyber security as part of national security as a “country’s growth is not possible without ensuring cyber security,” said Shah.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manipur-violence-mobile-internet-broadband-suspended-curfew-imposed-amid-drone-missile-attacks-757484">Manipur violence: Mobile internet, broadband suspended; curfew imposed amid drone, missile attacks</a></p>

<p>Shah also inaugurated a ‘suspect registry’- a database with details of criminals involved in cyber and online financial frauds that will be accessible by the states, union territories, central investigation and intelligence agencies. The registry has been created based on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP), in collaboration with banks and financial intermediaries to strengthen the fraud risk management capabilities of the financial ecosystem.</p>

<p>Watch |&nbsp;<strong>Study: Financial fraud top cybercrime in India</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/study-financial-fraud-top-cybercrime-in-india-637367/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>“If the states/union territories have data in silos, then it won’t help us in the fight against cyber criminals who have no boundaries. The time has come that a common registry for suspects is there,” Shah said. He further mentioned that all stakeholders will have to come together to deal with the menace.</p>

<p>Shah also dedicated a Cyber Fraud Mitigation Centre (CFMC) to the country, at the event.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-claims-sebi-chair-her-husband-earned-nearly-a-million-dollars-from-mahindra-and-mahindra-group-757474">Congress claims SEBI chair, her husband received nearly a million dollars from Mahindra and Mahindra Group</a></p>

<p>The CFMC has been established at I4C with representatives of major banks, financial intermediaries, payment aggregators, telecom service providers, IT intermediaries and states/UTs law enforcement agencies (LEAs).</p>

<p>I4C was established in October 2018, under the central sector scheme within the Cyber and Information Security Division (CIS Division) of the MHA. Its primary objective is to establish a national-level coordination centre for addressing all issues related to cybercrime across the country.</p>

<h2><strong>Cyber crimes in India</strong></h2>

<p>Several Indians fall prey to cyber fraud every year. Between Jan and April 2024, Indians suffered losses exceeding Rs 1,750 crore due to cybercriminal activities. This was reported through over 740,000 complaints lodged on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal, which is managed by the MHA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The I4C stated that in May 2024 an average of 7,000 cybercrime complaints were recorded daily, marking a significant surge of 113.7 per cent compared to the period between 2021 and 2023, according to a report in the Economic Times.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India will have as many as 5,000 cyber commandos in the next five years, said Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday (Sep 10). These commandos will be a group of highly-trained police officers who will instantly respond to cyber attacks in the country and carry out preventive measures.

India will have as many as 5,000 cyber commandos in the next five years, said Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday (Sep 10). These commandos will be a group of highly-trained police officers who will instantly respond to cyber attacks in the country and carry out preventive measures. Shah announced at the first foundation day of the I4C- Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre. "We will have 5,000 cyber commandos in five years. These commandos will respond to cyber threats swiftly," he said. The home minister termed cyber security as part of national security as a “country’s growth is not possible without ensuring cyber security,” said Shah. Also Read | Manipur violence: Mobile internet, broadband suspended; curfew imposed amid drone, missile attacks Shah also inaugurated a ‘suspect registry’- a database with details of criminals involved in cyber and online financial frauds that will be accessible by the states, union territories, central investigation and intelligence agencies. The registry has been created based on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP), in collaboration with banks and financial intermediaries to strengthen the fraud risk management capabilities of the financial ecosystem. Watch | Study: Financial fraud top cybercrime in India × “If the states/union territories have data in silos, then it won’t help us in the fight against cyber criminals who have no boundaries. The time has come that a common registry for suspects is there,” Shah said. He further mentioned that all stakeholders will have to come together to deal with the menace. Shah also dedicated a Cyber Fraud Mitigation Centre (CFMC) to the country, at the event. Also Read | Congress claims SEBI chair, her husband received nearly a million dollars from Mahindra and Mahindra Group The CFMC has been established at I4C with representatives of major banks, financial intermediaries, payment aggregators, telecom service providers, IT intermediaries and states/UTs law enforcement agencies (LEAs). I4C was established in October 2018, under the central sector scheme within the Cyber and Information Security Division (CIS Division) of the MHA. Its primary objective is to establish a national-level coordination centre for addressing all issues related to cybercrime across the country. Cyber crimes in India Several Indians fall prey to cyber fraud every year. Between Jan and April 2024, Indians suffered losses exceeding Rs 1,750 crore due to cybercriminal activities. This was reported through over 740,000 complaints lodged on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal, which is managed by the MHA. The I4C stated that in May 2024 an average of 7,000 cybercrime complaints were recorded daily, marking a significant surge of 113.7 per cent compared to the period between 2021 and 2023, according to a report in the Economic Times. (With inputs from agencies)

India to have 5,000 cyber commandos in next 5 years to fight cyber threats: Amit Shah

<p>The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) cleared the Predator drone deal on July 30, and the Defence Ministry is likely to approach the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for the much-anticipated acquisition to be signed in the upcoming month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the Defence Ministry is silent on the process, it is learned that the Cost Negotiation Committee (CNC) has locked the final price for acquisition at around USD 3.1 billion from US-based General Atomics. Before getting the final stamp from CCS, the Defence Ministry will approach the Finance Ministry for the expenditure approval. However, the acquisition must be signed before October 31, or the prices will be revised by the manufacturer.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/desperate-families-dig-through-deep-craters-as-israeli-strike-on-humanitarian-zone-in-gaza-kills-40-757262">40 killed, 60 injured as Israel strikes Al-Mawasi humanitarian zone in Gaza</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Distribution of Predator drones among Indian security forces</strong></h2>

<p>The government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is purchasing 1 MQ 9B drones with air-to-surface missiles and laser-guided bombs from General Atomics on a government-to-government basis. The 31 drones will be divided among the three Indian security forces wherein 16 will be provided to the Indian Navy to ensure maritime security in the Indo-Pacific, eight will be with the Indian Army, and the remaining eight will be with the Indian Air Force for tailored strike missions across land borders. The Predator drone has a proven record in the Middle East and Afghanistan with precision bombings and high-value targets.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Indian Air Force begins ‘Tarang Shakti 2024’: Rafale &amp; Mirage 2000 part of mega exercise</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-air-force-begins-tarang-shakti-2024-rafale-mirage-2000-part-of-mega-exercise-748109/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>India has been operating two units of Sea Guardian, an unarmed version of Predator, on lease from General Atomics. The Sea Guardian is being operated from INS Rajali in Tamil Nadu for maritime domain awareness. The lease of two Sea Guardians drones expired in January 2024, but the Indian Navy extended it for four years as the drone provides real-time awareness from the Sunda Straits in Indonesia to the Suez Canal in the West and South Indian Ocean.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/direct-attack-on-democracy-pakistan-police-arrests-top-pti-leaders-imran-khan-supporters-in-islamabad-757287">Pakistan police arrests top PTI leaders, Imran Khan supporters in Islamabad</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Why is acquisition of armed drones important for India?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The acquisition of armed drones such as the Predator drone has become a priority for India because the neighbouring countries China and Pakistan are operating CH-4 weaponised aerial vehicles, with Beijing selling these to Rawalpindi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) cleared the Predator drone deal on July 30, and the Defence Ministry is likely to approach the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for the much-anticipated acquisition to be signed in the upcoming month.

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) cleared the Predator drone deal on July 30, and the Defence Ministry is likely to approach the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for the much-anticipated acquisition to be signed in the upcoming month. While the Defence Ministry is silent on the process, it is learned that the Cost Negotiation Committee (CNC) has locked the final price for acquisition at around USD 3.1 billion from US-based General Atomics. Before getting the final stamp from CCS, the Defence Ministry will approach the Finance Ministry for the expenditure approval. However, the acquisition must be signed before October 31, or the prices will be revised by the manufacturer. Also Read | 40 killed, 60 injured as Israel strikes Al-Mawasi humanitarian zone in Gaza Distribution of Predator drones among Indian security forces The government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is purchasing 1 MQ 9B drones with air-to-surface missiles and laser-guided bombs from General Atomics on a government-to-government basis. The 31 drones will be divided among the three Indian security forces wherein 16 will be provided to the Indian Navy to ensure maritime security in the Indo-Pacific, eight will be with the Indian Army, and the remaining eight will be with the Indian Air Force for tailored strike missions across land borders. The Predator drone has a proven record in the Middle East and Afghanistan with precision bombings and high-value targets. WATCH | Indian Air Force begins ‘Tarang Shakti 2024’: Rafale & Mirage 2000 part of mega exercise × India has been operating two units of Sea Guardian, an unarmed version of Predator, on lease from General Atomics. The Sea Guardian is being operated from INS Rajali in Tamil Nadu for maritime domain awareness. The lease of two Sea Guardians drones expired in January 2024, but the Indian Navy extended it for four years as the drone provides real-time awareness from the Sunda Straits in Indonesia to the Suez Canal in the West and South Indian Ocean. Also Read | Pakistan police arrests top PTI leaders, Imran Khan supporters in Islamabad Why is acquisition of armed drones important for India? The acquisition of armed drones such as the Predator drone has become a priority for India because the neighbouring countries China and Pakistan are operating CH-4 weaponised aerial vehicles, with Beijing selling these to Rawalpindi. (With inputs from agencies)

India to finalise Predator drone deal with US before October 31, check details

<p>Following a fresh surge of violence in the North-Eastern Indian state of Manipur, authorities on Tuesday (Sep 10) suspended mobile internet, broadband, and VPNs for five days. The state’s home department in a statement said there were concerns that some anti-social elements may use social media to fuel violence.</p>

<p>“In view of the prevailing law and order situation in the State of Manipur, there is apprehension that some anti-social elements might use social media extensively for transmission of images, hate speech and hate video messages inciting the passions of the public, which might have serious repercussions for the law-and-order situation in the State of Manipur,” the statement read.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Manipur Violence: Ethnic violence returns in India's Manipur</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/manipur-violence-ethnic-violence-returns-in-indias-manipur-757162/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>“There is an imminent danger of loss of life and/or damage to public/private property, and widespread disturbances to public tranquility and communal harmony, as a result of inflammatory material and false rumours, which might be transmitted/circulated to the public through social media/ messaging services on mobile services, SMS services and dongle services,” it added.</p>

<p>The move comes after an indefinite curfew was imposed in both the Imphal districts earlier in the day. Local administration in Imphal East and Imphal West issued curfew orders effective from 11 am citing “the developing law and order situation”.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwimw-WYpLiIAxVFUGcHHbcnEJQQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manipur-ramps-up-anti-drone-defences-amid-heightened-use-among-militants-watch-756930" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manipur-ramps-up-anti-drone-defences-amid-heightened-use-among-militants-watch-756930&amp;ved=2ahUKEwimw-WYpLiIAxVFUGcHHbcnEJQQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">Manipur ramps up anti-drone defences amid heightened use by militants - Watch</a></strong></p>

<p>At least 11 people have been killed in the recent spree of violence that began on September 1. The unrest has been fuelled by massive student protests in Thoubal and Imphal. Police earlier used tear gas and stun grenades to disperse protestors who in turn pelted stones.</p>

<p>In Imphal, the situation became tense as students even tried to storm into the official residences of Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya and Chief Minister N Biren Singh.</p>

<p>In a major concern for the state government, rockets and drones were also used in recent cases of violence. Since last May, over 200 people have lost their lives in the state as a result of clashes between Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and adjoining hills-based Kuki-Zo groups.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Following a fresh surge of violence in the North-Eastern Indian state of Manipur, authorities on Tuesday (Sep 10) suspended mobile internet, broadband, and VPNs for five days.

Following a fresh surge of violence in the North-Eastern Indian state of Manipur, authorities on Tuesday (Sep 10) suspended mobile internet, broadband, and VPNs for five days. The state’s home department in a statement said there were concerns that some anti-social elements may use social media to fuel violence. “In view of the prevailing law and order situation in the State of Manipur, there is apprehension that some anti-social elements might use social media extensively for transmission of images, hate speech and hate video messages inciting the passions of the public, which might have serious repercussions for the law-and-order situation in the State of Manipur,” the statement read. Watch: Manipur Violence: Ethnic violence returns in India's Manipur × “There is an imminent danger of loss of life and/or damage to public/private property, and widespread disturbances to public tranquility and communal harmony, as a result of inflammatory material and false rumours, which might be transmitted/circulated to the public through social media/ messaging services on mobile services, SMS services and dongle services,” it added. The move comes after an indefinite curfew was imposed in both the Imphal districts earlier in the day. Local administration in Imphal East and Imphal West issued curfew orders effective from 11 am citing “the developing law and order situation”. Also read: Manipur ramps up anti-drone defences amid heightened use by militants - Watch At least 11 people have been killed in the recent spree of violence that began on September 1. The unrest has been fuelled by massive student protests in Thoubal and Imphal. Police earlier used tear gas and stun grenades to disperse protestors who in turn pelted stones. In Imphal, the situation became tense as students even tried to storm into the official residences of Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya and Chief Minister N Biren Singh. In a major concern for the state government, rockets and drones were also used in recent cases of violence. Since last May, over 200 people have lost their lives in the state as a result of clashes between Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and adjoining hills-based Kuki-Zo groups. (With inputs from agencies)

Manipur violence: Mobile internet, broadband suspended; curfew imposed after drone, rocket attacks

Sanket Bawankule, son of the Maharashtra Bharatiya Janata Party president Chandrashekhar Bawankule, reportedly fled the spot after an Audi owned by him hit several vehicles in Nagpur on 9 Sept.

Maharashtra BJP Chief's son's Audi crashes into multiple vehicles

<p>Maharashtra Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Chandrashekhar Bawankule's son Sanket Bawankule reportedly fled the spot after an Audi car owned by him hit several vehicles in the early hours of Monday (Sep 9).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident took place in the Ramdaspeth area around 1 AM local time. According to police, the Audi first collided with&nbsp;complainant Jitendra Sonkamble's car before ramming into a moped, injuring the two youths who were riding it.</p>

<p>After the incident, the driver and one more occupant were detained while the remaining three including Sanket Bawankule, fled the scene. The detained, identified as&nbsp;Arjun Hawre and Ronit Chittamwar, were taken to the&nbsp;Sitabuldi police station for further investigation. Their medical examinations were still underway.</p>

<p>"The Audi car struck some more vehicles moving towards the Mankapur area. At T-Point there, the vehicle hit a Polo car. Its occupants chased the Audi and stopped it near the Mankapur bridge. Two occupants, identified as driver Arjun Hawre and Ronit Chittamwar, were stopped by those in the Polo car," the police official was quoted as saying by <em>PTI.&nbsp;</em>&nbsp;</p>

<p>“A case of rash driving and other offences was registered on the complaint of Sonkamble. No action has been taken so far against Sanket Bawankule and the other two occupants who reportedly escaped from the scene at Mankapur bridge.”</p>

<p>The BJP chief admitted that the Audi was registered under his son's name when quizzed about the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Police should conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the accident without any bias. Those found guilty should be charged and appropriate action should be taken against them. I have not spoken to any police official. The law must be equal for all,” he said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pune-porsche-crash-accused-claims-driver-was-behind-the-wheel-724795"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Pune Porsche crash: Accused claims driver was behind the wheel</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pune-porsche-crash-accused-claims-driver-was-behind-the-wheel-724795/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Previous incident&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>This is not the first instance when a high-profile politician or businessman's son has been involved in a hit-and-run case in the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In May, realtor Vishal Agrawal's teenage son killed two IT professionals while driving a Porsche sportscar in an intoxicated state. The 17-year-old boy didn't have a valid license either when he was driving the car.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pune-teen-granted-bail-in-porsche-crash-case-734933"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India: Pune teen granted bail in Porsche crash case as court says remand order 'illegal'</strong></a></p>

<p>Police have since registered three separate FIRs in connection with the case – one regarding the accident, the second one against the bar for serving liquor to the minor, and the third one for the wrongful confinement of the accused's kin on the family driver to take the blame for the accident.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Maharashtra Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Chandrashekhar Bawankule's son Sanket Bawankule reportedly fled the spot after an Audi car owned by him hit several vehicles in the early hours of Monday (Sep 9).

Maharashtra Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Chandrashekhar Bawankule's son Sanket Bawankule reportedly fled the spot after an Audi car owned by him hit several vehicles in the early hours of Monday (Sep 9). The incident took place in the Ramdaspeth area around 1 AM local time. According to police, the Audi first collided with complainant Jitendra Sonkamble's car before ramming into a moped, injuring the two youths who were riding it. After the incident, the driver and one more occupant were detained while the remaining three including Sanket Bawankule, fled the scene. The detained, identified as Arjun Hawre and Ronit Chittamwar, were taken to the Sitabuldi police station for further investigation. Their medical examinations were still underway. "The Audi car struck some more vehicles moving towards the Mankapur area. At T-Point there, the vehicle hit a Polo car. Its occupants chased the Audi and stopped it near the Mankapur bridge. Two occupants, identified as driver Arjun Hawre and Ronit Chittamwar, were stopped by those in the Polo car," the police official was quoted as saying by PTI. “A case of rash driving and other offences was registered on the complaint of Sonkamble. No action has been taken so far against Sanket Bawankule and the other two occupants who reportedly escaped from the scene at Mankapur bridge.” The BJP chief admitted that the Audi was registered under his son's name when quizzed about the incident. "Police should conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the accident without any bias. Those found guilty should be charged and appropriate action should be taken against them. I have not spoken to any police official. The law must be equal for all,” he said. Watch | Pune Porsche crash: Accused claims driver was behind the wheel × Previous incident This is not the first instance when a high-profile politician or businessman's son has been involved in a hit-and-run case in the state. In May, realtor Vishal Agrawal's teenage son killed two IT professionals while driving a Porsche sportscar in an intoxicated state. The 17-year-old boy didn't have a valid license either when he was driving the car. Also read | India: Pune teen granted bail in Porsche crash case as court says remand order 'illegal' Police have since registered three separate FIRs in connection with the case – one regarding the accident, the second one against the bar for serving liquor to the minor, and the third one for the wrongful confinement of the accused's kin on the family driver to take the blame for the accident. (With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra BJP president's son flees after his Audi hits several vehicles

<p>Prominent Indian opposition leader Sitaram Yechury's is in a critical health condition, and was placed on respiratory support on Tuesday (Sept 10)&nbsp;at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)&nbsp;in New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yechury, 72,&nbsp;is the General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist). He was admitted to AIIMS on August 19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement posted on X, the CPI(M) said on Tuesday that Yechury was being treated for an acute respiratory tract infection. The CPI(M) said that the 72-year-old was currently in the intensive care unit (ICU) of AIIMS.</p>

<p>"He is on respiratory support. A multi-disciplinary team of doctors is monitoring his condition, which is critical at this time," the party added.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Comrade Sitaram Yechury’s health condition <a href="https://t.co/NDPl8HE8K0">pic.twitter.com/NDPl8HE8K0</a></p>
— CPI (M) (@cpimspeak) <a href="https://twitter.com/cpimspeak/status/1833390537514049942?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Previously, the CPI(M) said that Yechury's condition was stable and that he was responding positively to the treatment. On August 22, he released&nbsp;a six-minute video from the hospital, paying&nbsp;condolences to former West Bengal chief minister Buddhadev Bhattacharya.</p>

<p>Yechury had recently undergone cataract surgery.</p>

<p>Yechury joined the CPI(M) in 1975 and was arrested during the Emergency. He was elected to the Rajya Sabha from West Bengal in 2005 and is known for bringing several popular issues to the notice of Parliament and for raising questions on important issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He is an alumnus of St. Stephen's College, the University of Delhi, and the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU).&nbsp;</p>

<p>On April 22,&nbsp;2021, Yechury's son Ashish died due to Covid at the age of 34.&nbsp;</p>


Prominent Indian opposition leader Sitaram Yechury's is in a critical health condition, and was placed on respiratory support on Tuesday (Sept 10) at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi.

Prominent Indian opposition leader Sitaram Yechury's is in a critical health condition, and was placed on respiratory support on Tuesday (Sept 10) at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi. Yechury, 72, is the General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist). He was admitted to AIIMS on August 19. In a statement posted on X, the CPI(M) said on Tuesday that Yechury was being treated for an acute respiratory tract infection. The CPI(M) said that the 72-year-old was currently in the intensive care unit (ICU) of AIIMS. "He is on respiratory support. A multi-disciplinary team of doctors is monitoring his condition, which is critical at this time," the party added. Comrade Sitaram Yechury’s health condition pic.twitter.com/NDPl8HE8K0 — CPI (M) (@cpimspeak) September 10, 2024 × Previously, the CPI(M) said that Yechury's condition was stable and that he was responding positively to the treatment. On August 22, he released a six-minute video from the hospital, paying condolences to former West Bengal chief minister Buddhadev Bhattacharya. Yechury had recently undergone cataract surgery. Yechury joined the CPI(M) in 1975 and was arrested during the Emergency. He was elected to the Rajya Sabha from West Bengal in 2005 and is known for bringing several popular issues to the notice of Parliament and for raising questions on important issues. He is an alumnus of St. Stephen's College, the University of Delhi, and the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). On April 22, 2021, Yechury's son Ashish died due to Covid at the age of 34.

Indian opposition leader Sitaram Yechury's condition critical, placed on respiratory support

<p>Hundreds of workers at the Samsung India factory at Sriperumbudur, near Chennai city in Southern India, have been protesting for the second day, alleging that their management has refused to recognize their Left-affiliated Workers Union.</p>

<p>The Samsung India facility at the industrial hub of Sriperumbudur is known to assemble televisions, washing machines, refrigerators, and air conditioners, with thousands of units being rolled out every day. Owing to the ongoing protest, production is said to have been impacted.</p>

<p>According to Muthukumar, the Kanchipuram District Secretary of the CITU, a Left-affiliated Trade Union, the protests began on Monday, 9th September, after the Samsung India management allegedly failed to recognize the Left-affiliated Samsung India Workers Union.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/galaxy-ring-to-galaxy-z-fold-6-samsung-launches-seven-new-gadgets-739631">Galaxy Ring to Galaxy Z Fold 6: Samsung launches seven new gadgets</a></strong></p>

<p>"At Samsung India, the welfare of our employees is our top priority. We actively engage with our workers to address any grievances they may have and comply with all laws and regulations. We will also ensure that there is no disruption to our consumers," said a Samsung India spokesperson.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A significant portion of the workers at the Samsung facility are affiliated to our Trade Union. Despite that, the management has not recognized it. Samsung management has been employing strong-arm tactics, and threats of termination to those affiliated to the Union. They have even propped up a rival Union to create factionalism among workers," Muthukumar shared his allegations to WION.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Muthukumar, who is a Left-affiliated Trade Union leader representing the Samsung workers, but is not a Samsung employee, alleged that the Samsung management had been forcing Union-linked workers from one production line to another unrelated production line. "When a worker is trained only to assemble ACs, and he is made to assemble Washing machines, there will naturally be errors in his work and it would ruin the product. This is a convenient opportunity for the management to lay off the Unionizing workers," Muthukumar claimed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The protests at a leading consumer electronics assembly facility are occurring at a time when Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin and his industries team are in the US to attract investments to the state.</p>

<p>Over the last ten days, the chief minister has been announcing that MoUs worth millions of dollars have been signed with prospective investors from across sectors, including electronics and electronics component manufacturing. The DMK-led Tamil Nadu Government has maintained that it is working towards tripling its state economy to $1 trillion by 2023.</p>


Hundreds of workers at the Samsung India factory at Sriperumbudur, near Chennai city in Southern India, have been protesting for the second day, alleging that their management has refused to recognize their Left-affiliated Workers Union.

Hundreds of workers at the Samsung India factory at Sriperumbudur, near Chennai city in Southern India, have been protesting for the second day, alleging that their management has refused to recognize their Left-affiliated Workers Union. The Samsung India facility at the industrial hub of Sriperumbudur is known to assemble televisions, washing machines, refrigerators, and air conditioners, with thousands of units being rolled out every day. Owing to the ongoing protest, production is said to have been impacted. According to Muthukumar, the Kanchipuram District Secretary of the CITU, a Left-affiliated Trade Union, the protests began on Monday, 9th September, after the Samsung India management allegedly failed to recognize the Left-affiliated Samsung India Workers Union. Also read | Galaxy Ring to Galaxy Z Fold 6: Samsung launches seven new gadgets "At Samsung India, the welfare of our employees is our top priority. We actively engage with our workers to address any grievances they may have and comply with all laws and regulations. We will also ensure that there is no disruption to our consumers," said a Samsung India spokesperson. "A significant portion of the workers at the Samsung facility are affiliated to our Trade Union. Despite that, the management has not recognized it. Samsung management has been employing strong-arm tactics, and threats of termination to those affiliated to the Union. They have even propped up a rival Union to create factionalism among workers," Muthukumar shared his allegations to WION. Muthukumar, who is a Left-affiliated Trade Union leader representing the Samsung workers, but is not a Samsung employee, alleged that the Samsung management had been forcing Union-linked workers from one production line to another unrelated production line. "When a worker is trained only to assemble ACs, and he is made to assemble Washing machines, there will naturally be errors in his work and it would ruin the product. This is a convenient opportunity for the management to lay off the Unionizing workers," Muthukumar claimed. The protests at a leading consumer electronics assembly facility are occurring at a time when Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin and his industries team are in the US to attract investments to the state. Over the last ten days, the chief minister has been announcing that MoUs worth millions of dollars have been signed with prospective investors from across sectors, including electronics and electronics component manufacturing. The DMK-led Tamil Nadu Government has maintained that it is working towards tripling its state economy to $1 trillion by 2023.

Samsung India workers protest for second day, disrupt production

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid6mFabOXHLQow" /></p>

<p>A day after the Supreme Court of India&nbsp;asked doctors in West Bengal protesting against the brutal rape and murder of a trainee postgraduate doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital to end the demonstration, junior doctors in the city said on Tuesday (Sept 10) that they would continue their agitation until justice was done.</p>

<p>According to a report by NDTV, the doctors said that the protest was a people's movement and neither the state government nor the Supreme Court should forget that.</p>

<p>A spokesperson of the junior doctors at the institute said that the doctors were "extremely disappointed" by the apex court's hearing. "...the case has been transferred from the High Court to the Supreme Court, from the state police to the CBI. But justice is still out of reach," the spokesperson added, as reported by NDTV.</p>

<h2><strong>What did the Supreme Court say?</strong></h2>

<p>On Monday, the Supreme Court took up the suo moto case&nbsp;of&nbsp;the brutal rape and murder of the doctor at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. During the hearing, the court ordered the protesting doctors in West Bengal to return to work by Tuesday 5 pm.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-indian-supreme-court-tells-protesting-doctors-in-bengal-to-return-to-work-757078">Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: India's Supreme Court tells protesting doctors in Bengal to return to work</a></strong></p>

<p>Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, who was appearing on behalf of the state of West Bengal, undertook that&nbsp;no punitive action, including punitive transfers, will be ordered against the doctors who return to work.</p>

<p>Sibal submitted in the court&nbsp;that 23 patients have lost their lives due to the absence of doctors and 600,000 people have been denied treatment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Senior Advocate Geeta Luthra, appearing for an association of resident doctors, submitted that the doctors are protesting because of their genuine apprehensions and that junior doctors are getting threats and facing bullying.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud urged the doctors to return to work, ensuring their safety would be taken care of.</p>

<p>"You have to now return to work and if you do not come to work, do not hold anyone responsible for disciplinary action against you. You cannot say that seniors are working so we will not," CJI Chandrachud said.</p>

<p>"Protest cannot be at the cost of duty,"&nbsp;he added and pointed out that if the doctors did not resume work, then the court could not stop the state government from taking disciplinary action.</p>

<h2><strong>IMA Bengal disheartened by Supreme Court's order</strong></h2>

<p>Apart from the protesting doctors in Kolkata, the Indian Medical Association's (IMA) Bengal branch also expressed its disappointment over the Supreme Court's order for junior doctors to return to work.</p>

<p>"We were expecting a positive outcome, keeping in mind the brutality of the offence. However, we are totally disheartened by the proceedings of the court and the CBI," IMA Bengal said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Kolkata horror: Resignation should serve as a wake up call, says Jawhar Sircar</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kolkata-rape-murder-case-resignation-should-serve-as-a-wake-up-call-jawhar-sircar-757268/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"No step was taken for a speedy trial to deliver justice to our colleague. We were even more disheartened to learn that the Supreme Court has asked the junior doctors who are the forerunners of this protest to return to work by 5 pm tomorrow," it added.</p>

<p>"It was also very shocking to note the way the junior doctors were portrayed as responsible for a few deaths in the hospitals is false and in no hospital, the service is completely hampered due to the movement of the junior doctors," the association further said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A day after the Supreme Court of India asked doctors in West Bengal protesting against the brutal rape and murder of a trainee postgraduate doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital to end the demonstration, junior doctors in the city said on Tuesday (Sept 10) that they would continue their agitation until justice was done.

A day after the Supreme Court of India asked doctors in West Bengal protesting against the brutal rape and murder of a trainee postgraduate doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital to end the demonstration, junior doctors in the city said on Tuesday (Sept 10) that they would continue their agitation until justice was done. According to a report by NDTV, the doctors said that the protest was a people's movement and neither the state government nor the Supreme Court should forget that. A spokesperson of the junior doctors at the institute said that the doctors were "extremely disappointed" by the apex court's hearing. "...the case has been transferred from the High Court to the Supreme Court, from the state police to the CBI. But justice is still out of reach," the spokesperson added, as reported by NDTV. What did the Supreme Court say? On Monday, the Supreme Court took up the suo moto case of the brutal rape and murder of the doctor at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. During the hearing, the court ordered the protesting doctors in West Bengal to return to work by Tuesday 5 pm. Also read | Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: India's Supreme Court tells protesting doctors in Bengal to return to work Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, who was appearing on behalf of the state of West Bengal, undertook that no punitive action, including punitive transfers, will be ordered against the doctors who return to work. Sibal submitted in the court that 23 patients have lost their lives due to the absence of doctors and 600,000 people have been denied treatment. Senior Advocate Geeta Luthra, appearing for an association of resident doctors, submitted that the doctors are protesting because of their genuine apprehensions and that junior doctors are getting threats and facing bullying. Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud urged the doctors to return to work, ensuring their safety would be taken care of. "You have to now return to work and if you do not come to work, do not hold anyone responsible for disciplinary action against you. You cannot say that seniors are working so we will not," CJI Chandrachud said. "Protest cannot be at the cost of duty," he added and pointed out that if the doctors did not resume work, then the court could not stop the state government from taking disciplinary action. IMA Bengal disheartened by Supreme Court's order Apart from the protesting doctors in Kolkata, the Indian Medical Association's (IMA) Bengal branch also expressed its disappointment over the Supreme Court's order for junior doctors to return to work. "We were expecting a positive outcome, keeping in mind the brutality of the offence. However, we are totally disheartened by the proceedings of the court and the CBI," IMA Bengal said in a statement. Also watch | Kolkata horror: Resignation should serve as a wake up call, says Jawhar Sircar × "No step was taken for a speedy trial to deliver justice to our colleague. We were even more disheartened to learn that the Supreme Court has asked the junior doctors who are the forerunners of this protest to return to work by 5 pm tomorrow," it added. "It was also very shocking to note the way the junior doctors were portrayed as responsible for a few deaths in the hospitals is false and in no hospital, the service is completely hampered due to the movement of the junior doctors," the association further said. (With inputs from agencies)

Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Junior doctors disappointed by SC hearing, to continue protest

After a third-year B. Tech student from IIT Guwahati was found dead in his hostel room on Monday, protests erupted across the campus. This was the second such death on the campus in a month. Watch in for more details!

India: Protests erupt at IIT Guwahati after student found dead in his room

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid6mFabOXHLQow" /></p>

<p>A massive protest was launched on Monday (Sept 9)&nbsp;by students of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Guwahati, after a third-year computer science&nbsp;engineering student was found dead in his hostel room, the news agency PTI reported citing the police.</p>

<p>The police said that the student hailed from Uttar Pradesh and stayed at the institute's&nbsp;Brahmaputra Hostel. A police officer told PTI that an investigation was underway, adding, the student's body had been sent for a postmortem.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Protest launched</strong></h2>

<p>As the news of the student's death started spreading around the campus, several students gathered in front of the administration building demanding justice for the deceased and&nbsp;mental health support for those studying at the institute.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/minimum-salary-package-at-iit-bombay-drops-to-4800-during-placement-season-755500">Minimum salary package at IIT Bombay drops to $4,800 during placement season</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking to the news agency, a protesting student said that the victim was suffering from physical health issues and was mentally disturbed too. "He was undergoing treatment and unable to concentrate on his studies," the protester added.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A student from IIT Guwahati, Bimalesh, tragically took his own life due to administration negligence. In response we, the students, held a silent protest on the demand of accountability. This is how they treated us … <a href="https://t.co/AEwYbHkjh6">pic.twitter.com/AEwYbHkjh6</a></p>
— GIRISH (@Girizz7_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Girizz7_/status/1833157498058252738?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Other protesters, meanwhile, alleged that though the third-year student submitted the required medical certificates, the documents were not considered and he subsequently became more depressed.</p>

<p>The dean of the student welfare office&nbsp;held talks with the agitating students and assured them that their physical and mental well-being was IIT Guwahati's top priority.</p>

<h2><strong>IITG reacts to student's death</strong></h2>

<p>A spokesperson for IIT Guwahati said that the institute was deeply saddened by the student's death. "We extend our heartfelt condolences to the student's family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time," the spokesperson said.</p>

<p>"The well-being of students is the top priority of IITG and it is committed to providing support and resources to help students navigate the challenges they may face," he added.</p>

<p>The spokesperson also encouraged the institute's student community to reach out to its support networks. "IITG reaffirms its commitment to fostering a supportive and safe environment for all students," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>Second death on campus in a month</strong></h2>

<p>This was&nbsp;the second such death on the campus in a month and the fourth case this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On August 9, a female student of MTech at the institute&nbsp;was found dead in her hostel room. She was also from Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;Her body was found after her friends noticed her absence from classes during the day.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A massive protest was launched on Monday (Sept 9) by students of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Guwahati, after a third-year computer science engineering student was found dead in his hostel room, the news agency PTI reported citing the police.

A massive protest was launched on Monday (Sept 9) by students of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Guwahati, after a third-year computer science engineering student was found dead in his hostel room, the news agency PTI reported citing the police. The police said that the student hailed from Uttar Pradesh and stayed at the institute's Brahmaputra Hostel. A police officer told PTI that an investigation was underway, adding, the student's body had been sent for a postmortem. Protest launched As the news of the student's death started spreading around the campus, several students gathered in front of the administration building demanding justice for the deceased and mental health support for those studying at the institute. Also read | Minimum salary package at IIT Bombay drops to $4,800 during placement season Speaking to the news agency, a protesting student said that the victim was suffering from physical health issues and was mentally disturbed too. "He was undergoing treatment and unable to concentrate on his studies," the protester added. A student from IIT Guwahati, Bimalesh, tragically took his own life due to administration negligence. In response we, the students, held a silent protest on the demand of accountability. This is how they treated us … pic.twitter.com/AEwYbHkjh6 — GIRISH (@Girizz7_) September 9, 2024 × Other protesters, meanwhile, alleged that though the third-year student submitted the required medical certificates, the documents were not considered and he subsequently became more depressed. The dean of the student welfare office held talks with the agitating students and assured them that their physical and mental well-being was IIT Guwahati's top priority. IITG reacts to student's death A spokesperson for IIT Guwahati said that the institute was deeply saddened by the student's death. "We extend our heartfelt condolences to the student's family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time," the spokesperson said. "The well-being of students is the top priority of IITG and it is committed to providing support and resources to help students navigate the challenges they may face," he added. The spokesperson also encouraged the institute's student community to reach out to its support networks. "IITG reaffirms its commitment to fostering a supportive and safe environment for all students," he said. Second death on campus in a month This was the second such death on the campus in a month and the fourth case this year. On August 9, a female student of MTech at the institute was found dead in her hostel room. She was also from Uttar Pradesh. Her body was found after her friends noticed her absence from classes during the day. (With inputs from agencies)

Massive protest at IIT Guwahati after student was found dead in his hostel room

<p>Olympic wrestler Bajrang Punia reported receiving a death threat from an unknown individual, according to police on Sunday. The threat, sent via WhatsApp, demanded that Bajrang "leave Congress".</p>

<p>The threat was issued just two days after Bajrang joined the Congress party and was appointed the working chairman of the All India Kisan Congress. The message was sent from an international number, and Bajrang subsequently lodged a formal complaint with the authorities.</p>

<p>In his complaint, Bajrang stated that the message warned him to "leave Congress", or else he and his family would face serious consequences. The message reportedly said, "This is our final message. We will show you our strength before the elections. You can file a complaint anywhere, but this is your first and last warning."</p>

<p>Sonipat SP Ravindra Singh confirmed the ongoing investigation, saying, "An unknown person has issued a threat."</p>

<p>The threat came two days after Bajrang Punia, an Olympic medallist from the Tokyo Games, and fellow wrestler Vinesh Phogat joined Congress ahead of the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections. Vinesh was selected by the Congress as the party’s candidate for the Julana Assembly seat, while Bajrang was named the working chairman of Congress's farmer wing.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/should-be-tried-for-sedition-vinesh-phogat-on-those-celebrating-her-olympic-medal-loss-756928">'Should be tried for sedition': Vinesh Phogat on those celebrating her Olympic medal loss</a></strong></p>

<p>The wrestlers' entry into politics on September 6 immediately drew criticism from former BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who had been accused of sexual harassment by several wrestlers, including Bajrang and Vinesh, ahead of the general elections.</p>

<p>During media interactions, Brij Bhushan claimed that anyone could defeat Vinesh and Bajrang in the Haryana Assembly elections. He also commented on Vinesh's recent disqualification at the Paris Games, attributing it to divine punishment, saying, "God had punished her."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-allegedly-issues-gag-order-on-brij-bhushan-singh-over-remarks-on-phogat-punia-joining-congress-756921">BJP’s gag order on Brij Bhushan Singh, says don’t comment on Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia</a></strong></p>

<p>Bajrang and Vinesh were both involved in the protests against Brij Bhushan last year, which eventually led to his trial on sexual harassment charges. Singh has denied the allegations, maintaining that he was not present in Delhi on the day of the alleged incident.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Olympic wrestler Bajrang Punia reported receiving a death threat from an unknown individual, according to police on Sunday. The threat, sent via WhatsApp, demanded that Bajrang "leave Congress".

Olympic wrestler Bajrang Punia reported receiving a death threat from an unknown individual, according to police on Sunday. The threat, sent via WhatsApp, demanded that Bajrang "leave Congress". The threat was issued just two days after Bajrang joined the Congress party and was appointed the working chairman of the All India Kisan Congress. The message was sent from an international number, and Bajrang subsequently lodged a formal complaint with the authorities. In his complaint, Bajrang stated that the message warned him to "leave Congress", or else he and his family would face serious consequences. The message reportedly said, "This is our final message. We will show you our strength before the elections. You can file a complaint anywhere, but this is your first and last warning." Sonipat SP Ravindra Singh confirmed the ongoing investigation, saying, "An unknown person has issued a threat." The threat came two days after Bajrang Punia, an Olympic medallist from the Tokyo Games, and fellow wrestler Vinesh Phogat joined Congress ahead of the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections. Vinesh was selected by the Congress as the party’s candidate for the Julana Assembly seat, while Bajrang was named the working chairman of Congress's farmer wing. Also read: 'Should be tried for sedition': Vinesh Phogat on those celebrating her Olympic medal loss The wrestlers' entry into politics on September 6 immediately drew criticism from former BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who had been accused of sexual harassment by several wrestlers, including Bajrang and Vinesh, ahead of the general elections. During media interactions, Brij Bhushan claimed that anyone could defeat Vinesh and Bajrang in the Haryana Assembly elections. He also commented on Vinesh's recent disqualification at the Paris Games, attributing it to divine punishment, saying, "God had punished her." Also read: BJP’s gag order on Brij Bhushan Singh, says don’t comment on Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia Bajrang and Vinesh were both involved in the protests against Brij Bhushan last year, which eventually led to his trial on sexual harassment charges. Singh has denied the allegations, maintaining that he was not present in Delhi on the day of the alleged incident. (With inputs from agencies)

Olympic wrestler Bajrang Punia warned to 'leave Congress' in WhatsApp death threat

<p>West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose has called on Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to dismiss Kolkata police chief and convene an emergency cabinet meeting to address the RG Kar Medical College case, according to a statement from the governor's office on Sunday (Sep&nbsp;9).</p>

<p>The Governor urged the state government to respond to public calls for the removal of Kolkata’s Police Commissioner, following the rape and murder case involving a trainee doctor at the hospital. "Governor Bose has directed Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to hold an emergency Cabinet meeting to discuss people's demand for justice for the deceased woman doctor," a source told PTI.</p>

<p>Governor Bose voiced concerns over the state government's ability to maintain law and order, particularly in the wake of widespread protests. These protests are raging not just in Kolkata but in other parts of West Bengal, as well as in cities across the country.</p>

<p>The Governor has been openly critical of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government, led by Mamata Banerjee, accusing it of mishandling the situation. He said that the government cannot ignore its responsibility and stay silent amid such disturbing events.</p>

<p>"According to the governor, the state should function within the Constitution and the rule of law. The ostrich-like attitude will not pay and the state must address the public demand to remove the Police Commissioner of Kolkata," the source told the agency.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/come-and-join-us-defence-minister-rajnath-singh-tells-pok-residents-to-leave-pakistan-for-india-756887">Defence Minister Rajnath Singh tells PoK residents to 'come and join India'</a></strong></p>

<p>“People should feel that they can expect justice from the government. Now, the feeling is not there,” the Governor said at a recent event.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, various groups, including former students, clay modellers, rickshaw pullers, and junior doctors, took to the streets of Kolkata on Sunday, continuing protests over the incident that took place a month ago at the state-run hospital.</p>

<p>The mother of the postgraduate trainee, whose body was discovered at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9, joined the calls for the immediate arrest of those responsible. She said that she had only one child and now all the protesting medics are like her children.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose has called on Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to dismiss Kolkata police chief and convene an emergency cabinet meeting to address the RG Kar Medical College case, according to a statement from the governor's office on Sunday (Sep 9).

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose has called on Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to dismiss Kolkata police chief and convene an emergency cabinet meeting to address the RG Kar Medical College case, according to a statement from the governor's office on Sunday (Sep 9). The Governor urged the state government to respond to public calls for the removal of Kolkata’s Police Commissioner, following the rape and murder case involving a trainee doctor at the hospital. "Governor Bose has directed Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to hold an emergency Cabinet meeting to discuss people's demand for justice for the deceased woman doctor," a source told PTI. Governor Bose voiced concerns over the state government's ability to maintain law and order, particularly in the wake of widespread protests. These protests are raging not just in Kolkata but in other parts of West Bengal, as well as in cities across the country. The Governor has been openly critical of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government, led by Mamata Banerjee, accusing it of mishandling the situation. He said that the government cannot ignore its responsibility and stay silent amid such disturbing events. "According to the governor, the state should function within the Constitution and the rule of law. The ostrich-like attitude will not pay and the state must address the public demand to remove the Police Commissioner of Kolkata," the source told the agency. Also read: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh tells PoK residents to 'come and join India' “People should feel that they can expect justice from the government. Now, the feeling is not there,” the Governor said at a recent event. Meanwhile, various groups, including former students, clay modellers, rickshaw pullers, and junior doctors, took to the streets of Kolkata on Sunday, continuing protests over the incident that took place a month ago at the state-run hospital. The mother of the postgraduate trainee, whose body was discovered at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9, joined the calls for the immediate arrest of those responsible. She said that she had only one child and now all the protesting medics are like her children. (With inputs from agencies)

West Bengal governor urges CM Mamata to dismiss Kolkata police chief, call emergency cabinet meeting

<p>The mother of the trainee doctor who was brutally raped and murdered at the RG Kar Medical School and Hospital last month has called out West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for lying. The victim's mother said the family was offered money.</p>

<p>Notably, the father of the&nbsp;32-year-old doctor alleged last week that the Kolkata Police attempted to cover up the case and offered them money to keep quiet.</p>

<p>"The chief minister is lying. She said that you will get the compensation, and you can build something in memory of your daughter. I had said then that when my daughter gets justice, I will come to your office and take the compensation," the mother said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It seems inhuman to me because I am the mother of a girl. I have lost a child, so I feel inhuman. If people from all over the country want to return for the (Durga Puja) festival, they can," she added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kolkata-protests-president-murmus-strong-stand-over-kolkata-doctors-rape-murder-wion-originals-754102" target="_blank"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Kolkata Protests: President Murmu's strong stand over Kolkata Doctor Rape-Murder | WION Originals</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kolkata-protests-president-murmus-strong-stand-over-kolkata-doctors-rape-murder-wion-originals-754102/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>What did Mamata say?</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier on Monday (Sep 9), Mamata dismissed allegations that Kolkata Police offered bribe to the parents of the victims and called the accusations, slander against her government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have never offered money to the deceased doctor's family, this is nothing but slander," said Mamata.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I had told the parents that money can never compensate for a life, but if they ever feel they want to do something meaningful in memory of their daughter, they could reach out to me, as the government stands by their side," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader also alleged that a "conspiracy" was being hatched by the centre, involving the left parties, against her government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-threatens-to-topple-modi-government-in-wake-of-kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-protests-754165" target="_blank"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Mamata Banerjee threatens to 'topple' Modi government in wake of Kolkata doctor rape-murder case protests</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Not the first instance&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>This is not the first time that Mamata has been called out by the victim's mother. Previously, the mother said she did not like the threat that Mamata had given to the doctors at one of her rallies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I didn't like what she [Mamata] said yesterday. The whole world stands by my daughter. They are protesting, agitating for justice. And she says we do not want justice," the mother said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During one of the rallies, Mamata said the protesting doctors should return to duty or otherwise an FIR would be filed against them which could ruin their future.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The mother of the trainee doctor who was brutally raped and murdered at the RG Kar Medical School and Hospital last month has called out West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for lying.

The mother of the trainee doctor who was brutally raped and murdered at the RG Kar Medical School and Hospital last month has called out West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for lying. The victim's mother said the family was offered money. Notably, the father of the 32-year-old doctor alleged last week that the Kolkata Police attempted to cover up the case and offered them money to keep quiet. "The chief minister is lying. She said that you will get the compensation, and you can build something in memory of your daughter. I had said then that when my daughter gets justice, I will come to your office and take the compensation," the mother said. "It seems inhuman to me because I am the mother of a girl. I have lost a child, so I feel inhuman. If people from all over the country want to return for the (Durga Puja) festival, they can," she added. Watch | Kolkata Protests: President Murmu's strong stand over Kolkata Doctor Rape-Murder | WION Originals What did Mamata say? Earlier on Monday (Sep 9), Mamata dismissed allegations that Kolkata Police offered bribe to the parents of the victims and called the accusations, slander against her government. "I have never offered money to the deceased doctor's family, this is nothing but slander," said Mamata. "I had told the parents that money can never compensate for a life, but if they ever feel they want to do something meaningful in memory of their daughter, they could reach out to me, as the government stands by their side," she added. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader also alleged that a "conspiracy" was being hatched by the centre, involving the left parties, against her government. Also read | Mamata Banerjee threatens to 'topple' Modi government in wake of Kolkata doctor rape-murder case protests Not the first instance This is not the first time that Mamata has been called out by the victim's mother. Previously, the mother said she did not like the threat that Mamata had given to the doctors at one of her rallies. "I didn't like what she [Mamata] said yesterday. The whole world stands by my daughter. They are protesting, agitating for justice. And she says we do not want justice," the mother said. During one of the rallies, Mamata said the protesting doctors should return to duty or otherwise an FIR would be filed against them which could ruin their future. (With inputs from agencies)

Kolkata horror: Mother of victim slams CM Mamata Banerjee for lying, says family was offered 'money'

<p>The four accused named in the chargesheet filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA)&nbsp;had planned to attack the state Bharatiya Janta Party office (BJP) in Bengaluru on January 22 - the day of the Ram Mandir inauguration in Ayodhya, before undertaking the Rameshwaram Cafe blast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The four men,&nbsp;Mussavir Hussain Shazib, Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taaha, Maaz Muneer Ahmed and Muzammil Shareef were charge-sheeted on Monday (Sep 9) which revealed their insidious plans to cause chaos in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NIA said the accused had planned an IED blast at the BJP office, situated in Malleshwaram.&nbsp; Shazib (who planted the bomb at cafe) and Taaha&nbsp;were part of the Islamic State (IS) module and played an important part in radicalising the other two accused.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inside-bengalurus-rameshwaram-cafe-blast-man-orders-idli-flees-leaving-bag-with-explosives-watch-695702"><strong>Also read | Rameshwaram Cafe blast: Man orders idli, flees leaving bag with explosives at Bengaluru eatery</strong></a></p>

<p>"Taaha and Shazib were funded by their handler through crypto currencies, which Taaha converted to Fiat with the help of various Telegram-based P2P platforms. The funds were used by the accused to perpetrate various acts of violence in Bengaluru, investigations further revealed," the chargesheet stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"These included a failed IED attack at the State BJP Office, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, on the day of Pran Pratishtha ceremony at Ayodhya on 22nd January 2024, after which the two key accused had planned the Rameshwaram cafe&nbsp;blast."</p>

<p>The main accused had&nbsp;fraudulently obtained Indian SIM cards and Indian bank accounts. They also used various&nbsp;Indian and Bangladeshi identity&nbsp;documents downloaded from the dark web.</p>

<p>They all have been charged under relevant sections of IPC, UA(P) Act, Explosive Substances Act and PDLP Act. All four were earlier arrested and are currently in judicial custody in the case.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bengaluru-rameshwaram-cafe-blast-at-least-nine-injured-probe-underway-695688">Watch |&nbsp;Bengaluru Rameshwaram Cafe Blast: At least nine injured, probe underway</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bengaluru-rameshwaram-cafe-blast-at-least-nine-injured-probe-underway-695688/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>NIA launched its investigation two days after the March 1 attack this year. The premier agency conducted several&nbsp;technical and field investigation in coordination with various state police forces and authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The blast had injured at least nine people and destroyed one of the most iconic food joints in the city.&nbsp;Extensive searches by the NIA had led to arrest of Taaha and Shazib from their hideout in West Bengal 42 days after the Rameshwaram café explosion.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The four accused named in the chargesheet filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) had planned to attack the state Bharatiya Janta Party office (BJP) in Bengaluru on January 22 - the day of the Ram Mandir inauguration in Ayodhya, before undertaking the Rameshwaram Cafe blast.

The four accused named in the chargesheet filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) had planned to attack the state Bharatiya Janta Party office (BJP) in Bengaluru on January 22 - the day of the Ram Mandir inauguration in Ayodhya, before undertaking the Rameshwaram Cafe blast. The four men, Mussavir Hussain Shazib, Abdul Matheen Ahmed Taaha, Maaz Muneer Ahmed and Muzammil Shareef were charge-sheeted on Monday (Sep 9) which revealed their insidious plans to cause chaos in the country. NIA said the accused had planned an IED blast at the BJP office, situated in Malleshwaram. Shazib (who planted the bomb at cafe) and Taaha were part of the Islamic State (IS) module and played an important part in radicalising the other two accused. Also read | Rameshwaram Cafe blast: Man orders idli, flees leaving bag with explosives at Bengaluru eatery "Taaha and Shazib were funded by their handler through crypto currencies, which Taaha converted to Fiat with the help of various Telegram-based P2P platforms. The funds were used by the accused to perpetrate various acts of violence in Bengaluru, investigations further revealed," the chargesheet stated. "These included a failed IED attack at the State BJP Office, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, on the day of Pran Pratishtha ceremony at Ayodhya on 22nd January 2024, after which the two key accused had planned the Rameshwaram cafe blast." The main accused had fraudulently obtained Indian SIM cards and Indian bank accounts. They also used various Indian and Bangladeshi identity documents downloaded from the dark web. They all have been charged under relevant sections of IPC, UA(P) Act, Explosive Substances Act and PDLP Act. All four were earlier arrested and are currently in judicial custody in the case. Watch | Bengaluru Rameshwaram Cafe Blast: At least nine injured, probe underway × NIA launched its investigation two days after the March 1 attack this year. The premier agency conducted several technical and field investigation in coordination with various state police forces and authorities. The blast had injured at least nine people and destroyed one of the most iconic food joints in the city. Extensive searches by the NIA had led to arrest of Taaha and Shazib from their hideout in West Bengal 42 days after the Rameshwaram café explosion. (With inputs from agencies)

Rameshwaram Cafe attack: Terrorists planned to bomb BJP office on Ram Mandir inauguration day

<p>Twelve persons, including four children below the age of 12, have died in Lakhpat taluka in Gujarat's Kutch district days after the region was battered by heavy rains, with officials on Sunday (September 8, 2024) saying the cause of death primarily appears to be pneumonitis.</p>

<p>Some local district panchayat members, however, said doctors had not been able to accurately diagnose the fever, which was also causing difficulty in breathing.</p>

<p>Medical services in the taluka, which is located near the border with Pakistan, have been intensified with the deployment of 22 surveillance teams, and doctors and obtaining samples from residents to rule the possibility of H1N1, swine flu, Crimean-Congo fever, malaria and dengue, Kutch Collector Amit Arora said.</p>

<p>"Primarily, the deaths appear to have been caused by pneumonitis. It does not appear to be from contamination nor does it seem like an infectious disease. Twenty-two health department teams are working in the affected areas, including those brought on deputation from two community health centres and rapid response teams from Rajkot PDU medical college," he added.</p>

<p>Kutch district panchayat member Meenaba Jadeja, in a letter to Gujarat Congress chief Shaktisinh Gohil, claimed 12 persons in the 5-50 age group have died between September 3 and 9 due to fever in Bekhada, Sanandro, Morgar and Bharavandh villages in Lakhpat taluka.</p>

<p>"Persons with fever were earlier admitted to a private hospital at Vermanagar town in Lakhpat taluka. They were then taken to Dayapar CHC and finally to Bhuj general hospital. One patient was shifted to Ahmedabad. They died without recovering from the fever," former Lakhpat panchayat member Hussain Rayma said.</p>

<p>As per residents, patients had fever, cold, cough, pneumonia and were having difficulty breathing, while another district panchayat member Mamd Jung Jat said doctors had not been able to make an accurate diagnosis of the disease.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Twelve persons, including four children below the age of 12, have died in Lakhpat taluka in Gujarat's Kutch district days after the region was battered by heavy rains, with officials on Sunday (September 8, 2024) saying the cause of death primarily appears to be pneumonitis.

Twelve persons, including four children below the age of 12, have died in Lakhpat taluka in Gujarat's Kutch district days after the region was battered by heavy rains, with officials on Sunday (September 8, 2024) saying the cause of death primarily appears to be pneumonitis. Some local district panchayat members, however, said doctors had not been able to accurately diagnose the fever, which was also causing difficulty in breathing. Medical services in the taluka, which is located near the border with Pakistan, have been intensified with the deployment of 22 surveillance teams, and doctors and obtaining samples from residents to rule the possibility of H1N1, swine flu, Crimean-Congo fever, malaria and dengue, Kutch Collector Amit Arora said. "Primarily, the deaths appear to have been caused by pneumonitis. It does not appear to be from contamination nor does it seem like an infectious disease. Twenty-two health department teams are working in the affected areas, including those brought on deputation from two community health centres and rapid response teams from Rajkot PDU medical college," he added. Kutch district panchayat member Meenaba Jadeja, in a letter to Gujarat Congress chief Shaktisinh Gohil, claimed 12 persons in the 5-50 age group have died between September 3 and 9 due to fever in Bekhada, Sanandro, Morgar and Bharavandh villages in Lakhpat taluka. "Persons with fever were earlier admitted to a private hospital at Vermanagar town in Lakhpat taluka. They were then taken to Dayapar CHC and finally to Bhuj general hospital. One patient was shifted to Ahmedabad. They died without recovering from the fever," former Lakhpat panchayat member Hussain Rayma said. As per residents, patients had fever, cold, cough, pneumonia and were having difficulty breathing, while another district panchayat member Mamd Jung Jat said doctors had not been able to make an accurate diagnosis of the disease. 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: Twelve including four children dead in Gujarat from 'mystery illness' after heavy rains

<p>The central government on Monday (Sep 9) postponed the announcement regarding a potential reduction in the&nbsp;Goods and Services Tax (GST) on health insurance premiums. Chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the 54th GST Council meeting instead formed a group of ministers (GoM) to examine the issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The&nbsp;GoM will submit its report on&nbsp;insurance-related matters for senior citizens, life insurance, term insurance and group insurance by October end. Meanwhile, the council is expected to discuss removing GST or reducing it in the November meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Monday, the Fitment Committee, comprising the centre and state tax officials presented a report giving data and&nbsp;and analysis and implications of GST reduction on life, health and reinsurance premiums.</p>

<p>West Bengal Finance Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya stated that the majority of ministers were in support of reducing GST on insurance premiums.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The issue of GST on health insurance was raised by me. I said that the full exemption should be given. The Chief Minister of Goa supported me. Many of the ministers were of the view that it has to be reduced," said Bhattacharya after the meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They were agreeable to reduce but from 18 per cent to 5 per cent. Now, whether it will be exempted or it will be reduced to 5 per cent, GoM has been constituted, which will give its report by October last and then it will be decided in the next meeting."</p>

<p>In the lead-up to Monday's meeting, reports emerged that the government was planning to do away with the GST on health insurance premiums that had been pinching the common man.&nbsp;At present, premiums for both health and life insurance policies are subject to an 18 per cent&nbsp;GST.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-health-insurance-big-growth-bigger-gaps-755162"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India’s health insurance: Big growth, bigger gaps</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-health-insurance-big-growth-bigger-gaps-755162/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Gadkari had urged&nbsp;Cabinet colleague in July</strong></h2>

<p>A leaked letter by&nbsp;Union Minister for Road Transport &amp; Highways Nitin Gadkari, written to Sitharaman, showed that the senior minister was also in favour of doing away with GST on insurance premiums.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Levying GST on life insurance premium amounts to levying tax on the uncertainties of life," Gadkari said in his letter to Sitharaman, dated July 31.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nirmala-sitharaman-gets-good-news-for-hostel-goers-railway-services-top-points-of-gst-council-meet-734230"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Nirmala Sitharaman gets good news for hostel goers, railway services: Top points of June GST council meet</strong></a></p>

<p>"The Union feels that the person who covers the risk of life's uncertainties to give some protection to the family should not be levied tax on the premium to purchase cover against this risk."</p>

<h2><strong>What else was announced?</strong></h2>

<p>Sitharaman announced a reduction in GST rate on&nbsp;specified cancer drugs from 12 per cent to 5 per cent.</p>

<p>“You would recall that we had slashed customs duties on them and now the GST rate is being reduced from 12 per cent to 5 per cent&nbsp;to further reduce cancer treatment costs,” she said.</p>

<p>Additionally, funds&nbsp;given for research to State-affiliated universities, those that have come about under State or Central laws, or those that have obtained Income Tax exemption, can receive research funds both from the public&nbsp;and private sectors and will be exempt from paying GST.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The central government on Monday (Sep 9) postponed the announcement regarding a potential reduction in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on health insurance premiums.

The central government on Monday (Sep 9) postponed the announcement regarding a potential reduction in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on health insurance premiums. Chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the 54th GST Council meeting instead formed a group of ministers (GoM) to examine the issue. The GoM will submit its report on insurance-related matters for senior citizens, life insurance, term insurance and group insurance by October end. Meanwhile, the council is expected to discuss removing GST or reducing it in the November meeting. On Monday, the Fitment Committee, comprising the centre and state tax officials presented a report giving data and and analysis and implications of GST reduction on life, health and reinsurance premiums. West Bengal Finance Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya stated that the majority of ministers were in support of reducing GST on insurance premiums. "The issue of GST on health insurance was raised by me. I said that the full exemption should be given. The Chief Minister of Goa supported me. Many of the ministers were of the view that it has to be reduced," said Bhattacharya after the meeting. "They were agreeable to reduce but from 18 per cent to 5 per cent. Now, whether it will be exempted or it will be reduced to 5 per cent, GoM has been constituted, which will give its report by October last and then it will be decided in the next meeting." In the lead-up to Monday's meeting, reports emerged that the government was planning to do away with the GST on health insurance premiums that had been pinching the common man. At present, premiums for both health and life insurance policies are subject to an 18 per cent GST. Watch | India’s health insurance: Big growth, bigger gaps × Gadkari had urged Cabinet colleague in July A leaked letter by Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways Nitin Gadkari, written to Sitharaman, showed that the senior minister was also in favour of doing away with GST on insurance premiums. "Levying GST on life insurance premium amounts to levying tax on the uncertainties of life," Gadkari said in his letter to Sitharaman, dated July 31. Also read | Nirmala Sitharaman gets good news for hostel goers, railway services: Top points of June GST council meet "The Union feels that the person who covers the risk of life's uncertainties to give some protection to the family should not be levied tax on the premium to purchase cover against this risk." What else was announced? Sitharaman announced a reduction in GST rate on specified cancer drugs from 12 per cent to 5 per cent. “You would recall that we had slashed customs duties on them and now the GST rate is being reduced from 12 per cent to 5 per cent to further reduce cancer treatment costs,” she said. Additionally, funds given for research to State-affiliated universities, those that have come about under State or Central laws, or those that have obtained Income Tax exemption, can receive research funds both from the public and private sectors and will be exempt from paying GST. (With inputs from agencies)

India: GST on health insurance premiums to be reduced? Centre moves one step closer

<p>The Indian government on Monday (Sep 9)&nbsp;confirmed the first case of&nbsp;Mpox (monkeypox) in the country, stating that the lab tests showed the presence of the Mpox virus of the West African clade 2 in the patient.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said the case was an isolated one and not part of the current public health emergency declared by the World Health Organization (WHO).</p>

<p>"This case is an isolated case, similar to the earlier 30 cases reported in India from July 2022 onwards, and is not a part of the current public health emergency (reported by WHO) which is regarding clade 1 of mpox," the ministry stated in a release.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The individual, a young male who recently travelled from a country experiencing ongoing Mpox transmission, is currently isolated at a designated tertiary care isolation facility. The patient remains clinically stable and is without any systemic illness or comorbidities."</p>

<p>The ministry added that contact tracing and monitoring were actively in place to ensure that the situation was contained.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There is no indication of any widespread risk to the public at this time," the ministry declared.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mpox-outbreak-the-spread-of-mpox-can-be-controlled-who-official-751736"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Mpox outbreak: The spread of Mpox can be controlled: W.H.O. Official</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mpox-outbreak-the-spread-of-mpox-can-be-controlled-who-official-751736/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Notably, following the WHO's global alert, the health ministry adopted the following recommendations from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).</p>

<ul>
	<li>Heightened surveillance at entry points</li>
	<li>Identification and isolation of suspected and confirmed cases</li>
	<li>Laboratory testing</li>
	<li>Community awareness efforts</li>
	<li>Infection control measures in hospitals</li>
</ul>

<h2><strong>What is Mpox?</strong></h2>

<p>Mpox is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It was declared a public health emergency of international concern by WHO on August 14, 2024, for the second time in two years, the first being in 2022 when cases began spreading globally.</p>

<p>Democratic Republic of Congo has been&nbsp;the epicentre of&nbsp;the crisis. Up until this month, more than&nbsp;18,000 suspected cases of mpox, including 629 deaths, have been reported in the African nation.&nbsp;Four out of five deaths have been in children.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mpox-crisis-un-still-in-vaccine-tender-mode-amid-thousands-of-new-suspected-infections-in-africa-754932"><strong>Also read | Mpox crisis: Wider vaccine rollout in Africa could take months as UN still in tender mode</strong></a></p>

<p>According to the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), despite issuing an emergency tender to secure vaccines, it could take several months for the actual rollout.&nbsp;</p>

<p>WHO&nbsp;is reviewing the information submitted by the vaccine manufacturers on August 23 and is expected to complete its review for Emergency Use Listing by mid-September</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Indian government on Monday (Sep 9) confirmed the first case of Mpox (monkeypox) in the country, stating that the lab tests showed the presence of the Mpox virus of the West African clade 2 in the patient.

The Indian government on Monday (Sep 9) confirmed the first case of Mpox (monkeypox) in the country, stating that the lab tests showed the presence of the Mpox virus of the West African clade 2 in the patient. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said the case was an isolated one and not part of the current public health emergency declared by the World Health Organization (WHO). "This case is an isolated case, similar to the earlier 30 cases reported in India from July 2022 onwards, and is not a part of the current public health emergency (reported by WHO) which is regarding clade 1 of mpox," the ministry stated in a release. "The individual, a young male who recently travelled from a country experiencing ongoing Mpox transmission, is currently isolated at a designated tertiary care isolation facility. The patient remains clinically stable and is without any systemic illness or comorbidities." The ministry added that contact tracing and monitoring were actively in place to ensure that the situation was contained. "There is no indication of any widespread risk to the public at this time," the ministry declared. Watch | Mpox outbreak: The spread of Mpox can be controlled: W.H.O. Official × Notably, following the WHO's global alert, the health ministry adopted the following recommendations from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). Heightened surveillance at entry points Identification and isolation of suspected and confirmed cases Laboratory testing Community awareness efforts Infection control measures in hospitals What is Mpox? Mpox is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It was declared a public health emergency of international concern by WHO on August 14, 2024, for the second time in two years, the first being in 2022 when cases began spreading globally. Democratic Republic of Congo has been the epicentre of the crisis. Up until this month, more than 18,000 suspected cases of mpox, including 629 deaths, have been reported in the African nation. Four out of five deaths have been in children. Also read | Mpox crisis: Wider vaccine rollout in Africa could take months as UN still in tender mode According to the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), despite issuing an emergency tender to secure vaccines, it could take several months for the actual rollout. WHO is reviewing the information submitted by the vaccine manufacturers on August 23 and is expected to complete its review for Emergency Use Listing by mid-September (With inputs from agencies)

India confirms first Mpox case in traveller who returned from 'country experiencing virus transmission'

india-news

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news

india news