Sudan has allowed Qatari broadcaster Al-Jazeera to reopen its Khartoum office, which they had shut down in May, the channel's director in the Sudanese capital told AFP Friday.

"The Sudanese authorities have agreed to let us resume our work in covering Sudan," Al-Musallami Al-Kabbashi said.

The Al-Jazeera crew had been informed in late May, at the height of the protests that brought down longtime ruler Omar al-Bashir, that their licence and work permits were being withdrawn.

The news channel's staff had handed over equipment and<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../sudan-authorities-shut-down-al-jazeera-office-as -protests-continue-223119"> closed down the office&nbsp;</a>afer being notified of the decision by the country's Transitional Military Council.

Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia broke off diplomatic ties with Doha in 2017, accusing it of terrorism, which it denies.

The generals, backed by those three powers, had resisted calls from African and Western governments to hand over the reins of power until a political deal was eventually reached with protest leaders last month.

A compromise for a 39-month transition to civilian rule was sealed on August 4 and is due to be officially signed on Saturday, during a ceremony to be attended by several foreign dignitaries.

Sudan has allowed Qatari broadcaster Al-Jazeera to reopen its Khartoum office, which they had shut down in May, the channel's director in the Sudanese capital told AFP Friday.

Sudan has allowed Qatari broadcaster Al-Jazeera to reopen its Khartoum office, which they had shut down in May, the channel's director in the Sudanese capital told AFP Friday. "The Sudanese authorities have agreed to let us resume our work in covering Sudan," Al-Musallami Al-Kabbashi said. The Al-Jazeera crew had been informed in late May, at the height of the protests that brought down longtime ruler Omar al-Bashir, that their licence and work permits were being withdrawn. The news channel's staff had handed over equipment and closed down the office afer being notified of the decision by the country's Transitional Military Council. Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia broke off diplomatic ties with Doha in 2017, accusing it of terrorism, which it denies. The generals, backed by those three powers, had resisted calls from African and Western governments to hand over the reins of power until a political deal was eventually reached with protest leaders last month. A compromise for a 39-month transition to civilian rule was sealed on August 4 and is due to be officially signed on Saturday, during a ceremony to be attended by several foreign dignitaries.

Sudan allows Al-Jazeera to reopen office: channel

Bangladesh will host Zimbabwe for a tri-nations Twenty20 tournament in September despite the African nation being suspended by the game's world body, an official of the Bangladesh Cricket Board said Thursday.

Bangladesh will host Zimbabwe for a tri-nations Twenty20 tournament in September despite the African nation being suspended by the game's world body, an official of the Bangladesh Cricket Board said Thursday. The International Cricket Council (ICC) suspended Zimbabwe in July over a failure to keep the sport free from government interference, putting the country's participation in multi-nation events in doubt. "We have been informed by the concerned officials that there is no bar on Zimbabwe playing in bilateral matches. They are only suspended from ICC events. This is why we included them in the series," BCB spokesman Jalal Yunus told AFP. Afghanistan is the third team in the tournament scheduled to be held from September 13 to 24. Bangladesh was originally scheduled to play a bilateral series against Afghanistan in September, but officials said Zimbabwe had been included in the series following a request from the strife-torn country. The tri-series will be preceded by Afghanistan's maiden Test match against Bangladesh in Chittagong from September 5 to 9.

Bangladesh to host Zimbabwe despite ICC ban

Pakistan Lifts Ban On Indian Flights From Flying Over Its Territory

Gravitas: Pakistan opens it Airspace for all Civilian Traffic

The Chinese government convened top tech companies this week and warned them of consequences if they cut off technology sales to the country, US media reported on Saturday.

The meeting followed US President Donald Trump's move last month to blacklist Chinese tech giant Huawei over national security concerns, threatening the firm's global ambitions and ramping up the months-long trade battle between the two countries.

Earlier this week, the Chinese government summoned executives from American firms Dell and Microsoft and South Korea's Samsung, among others, to warn them that any moves to ramp down their businesses in China may lead to retaliation, The New York Times reported.

American companies were told "that the Trump administration's move to cut off Chinese companies from American technology had disrupted the global supply chain, adding that companies that followed the policy could face permanent consequences," the newspaper reported.&nbsp;

Companies based outside the United States were told that as long as they maintained business as usual, they wouldn't be punished, the newspaper reported.

Last Friday, Facebook announced it would cut Huwaei off from its popular social networking app to comply with the US sanctions, further isolating the company that has become the world's second-largest smartphone vendor.

Google made a similar announcement in May.

Washington and Beijing resumed their trade battle last month when negotiations in the US ended without a deal and US President Donald Trump raised tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese goods.

Beijing retaliated with its own tariff hike on billions of dollars worth of US goods.&nbsp;

The US move to cut Huawei off from American hardware came next, but was delayed by 90 days to prevent economic disruptions.

The Chinese government convened top tech companies this week and warned them of consequences if they cut off technology sales to the country, US media reported on Saturday.

The Chinese government convened top tech companies this week and warned them of consequences if they cut off technology sales to the country, US media reported on Saturday. The meeting followed US President Donald Trump's move last month to blacklist Chinese tech giant Huawei over national security concerns, threatening the firm's global ambitions and ramping up the months-long trade battle between the two countries. Earlier this week, the Chinese government summoned executives from American firms Dell and Microsoft and South Korea's Samsung, among others, to warn them that any moves to ramp down their businesses in China may lead to retaliation, The New York Times reported. American companies were told "that the Trump administration's move to cut off Chinese companies from American technology had disrupted the global supply chain, adding that companies that followed the policy could face permanent consequences," the newspaper reported. Companies based outside the United States were told that as long as they maintained business as usual, they wouldn't be punished, the newspaper reported. Last Friday, Facebook announced it would cut Huwaei off from its popular social networking app to comply with the US sanctions, further isolating the company that has become the world's second-largest smartphone vendor. Google made a similar announcement in May. Washington and Beijing resumed their trade battle last month when negotiations in the US ended without a deal and US President Donald Trump raised tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese goods. Beijing retaliated with its own tariff hike on billions of dollars worth of US goods. The US move to cut Huawei off from American hardware came next, but was delayed by 90 days to prevent economic disruptions.

China warns tech giants after US Huawei ban: Report

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/huawei-reviewing-fedex-relationship-says-packages-diverted-222142">Huawei</a> said Wednesday the tech giant has asked a US court to throw out<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-be-too-optimistic-huawei-employees-fret-at-us-ban-221684"> US </a>legislation that bars federal agencies from buying its products.

The tech giant filed suit against the US bill in March, calling it "unconstitutional" and saying the US Congress had failed to provide evidence to support its restrictions on Huawei products.

The company said it filed the motion for summary judgment on Wednesday (Tuesday in the United States).

"The US government has provided no evidence to show that Huawei is a security threat. There is no gun, no smoke. Only speculation," Huawei's chief legal officer Song Liuping said in a statement.

A motion for summary judgment aims to seek a judge's decision without going to a full trial.

Watch: Huawei says it's a 'victim of bullying by the US administration'

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The court case comes as Huawei also faces a broader US executive order preventing the use of its equipment in the United States and a more damaging US action to blacklist the company, cutting it off from critical American-made components for its products, though a 90-day reprieve was issued.

'Correct the mistakes'

Huawei's case against the US was filed in a US District Court in Plano, Texas, challenging what it called an "unconstitutional" 2019 defence bill that prevents government agencies from buying its equipment, services, or working with third parties that are Huawei customers.

The firm has argued that the US bill violates a bill of attainder clause by "singling out Huawei for punishment".

"The judicial system is the last line of defence for justice. Huawei has confidence in the independence and integrity of the US judicial system," Song said.

"We hope that mistakes in the NDAA can be corrected by the court," he said, referring to the National Defense Authorization Act.

Washington has warned that Huawei systems could be manipulated by Beijing to spy on other countries and disrupt critical communications, and is urging nations to shun the company in 5G networks.

The concerns have escalated as Huawei has risen to become the world leader in telecom networking equipment and one of the top smartphone manufacturers alongside Samsung and Apple.

The firm's proactive battles in US courts signal it is willing to use all means, including national courts, to prevent exclusion from a race to the 5G market -- the future of high-speed telecommunications.

Huawei said Wednesday the tech giant has asked a US court to throw out US legislation that bars federal agencies from buying its products. The tech giant filed suit against the US bill in March, calling it "unconstitutional" and saying the US Congress had failed to provide evidence to support its restrictions on Huawei products.

Huawei said Wednesday the tech giant has asked a US court to throw out US legislation that bars federal agencies from buying its products. The tech giant filed suit against the US bill in March, calling it "unconstitutional" and saying the US Congress had failed to provide evidence to support its restrictions on Huawei products. The company said it filed the motion for summary judgment on Wednesday (Tuesday in the United States). "The US government has provided no evidence to show that Huawei is a security threat. There is no gun, no smoke. Only speculation," Huawei's chief legal officer Song Liuping said in a statement. A motion for summary judgment aims to seek a judge's decision without going to a full trial. Watch: Huawei says it's a 'victim of bullying by the US administration' × The court case comes as Huawei also faces a broader US executive order preventing the use of its equipment in the United States and a more damaging US action to blacklist the company, cutting it off from critical American-made components for its products, though a 90-day reprieve was issued. 'Correct the mistakes' Huawei's case against the US was filed in a US District Court in Plano, Texas, challenging what it called an "unconstitutional" 2019 defence bill that prevents government agencies from buying its equipment, services, or working with third parties that are Huawei customers. The firm has argued that the US bill violates a bill of attainder clause by "singling out Huawei for punishment". "The judicial system is the last line of defence for justice. Huawei has confidence in the independence and integrity of the US judicial system," Song said. "We hope that mistakes in the NDAA can be corrected by the court," he said, referring to the National Defense Authorization Act. Washington has warned that Huawei systems could be manipulated by Beijing to spy on other countries and disrupt critical communications, and is urging nations to shun the company in 5G networks. The concerns have escalated as Huawei has risen to become the world leader in telecom networking equipment and one of the top smartphone manufacturers alongside Samsung and Apple. The firm's proactive battles in US courts signal it is willing to use all means, including national courts, to prevent exclusion from a race to the 5G market -- the future of high-speed telecommunications.

Huawei asks US court to throw out federal ban

Alabama Senate passes toughest abortion ban bill in US

Austrian MPs on Wednesday approved a law aimed at banning the headscarf in primary schools, a measure proposed by the ruling right-wing government.

So as to avoid charges that the law discriminates against Muslims, the text refers to any "ideologically or religiously influenced clothing which is associated with the covering of the head".

However, representatives of both parts of the governing coalition, the centre-right People's Party (OeVP) and the far-right Freedom Party (FPOe), have made it clear that the law is targeted at the Islamic headscarf.

FPOe education spokesman Wendelin Moelzer said the law was "a signal against political Islam" while OeVP MP Rudolf Taschner said the measure was necessary to free girls from "subjugation".

The government says the patka head covering worn by Sikh boys or the Jewish kippa would not be affected.

Austria's official Muslim community organisation IGGOe has previously condemned the proposals as "shameless" and a "diversionary tactic".

The IGGOe says that in any case only a "miniscule number" of girls would be affected.

Opposition MPs almost all voted against the measure, with some accusing the government of focusing on garnering positive headlines rather than child welfare.

The government admits that the law is likely to be challenged at Austria's constitutional court, either on grounds of religious discrimination or because similar legislation affecting schools is normally passed with a two-thirds majority of MPs.

The OeVP and FPOe formed a coalition in late 2017 after elections in which both parties took a tough anti-immigration stance and warned of the dangers of so-called "parallel societies".&nbsp;

Austrian MPs on Wednesday approved a law aimed at banning the headscarf in primary schools, a measure proposed by the ruling right-wing government. So as to avoid charges that the law discriminates against Muslims, the text refers to any "ideologically or religiously influenced clothing which is associated with the covering of the head".

Austrian MPs on Wednesday approved a law aimed at banning the headscarf in primary schools, a measure proposed by the ruling right-wing government. So as to avoid charges that the law discriminates against Muslims, the text refers to any "ideologically or religiously influenced clothing which is associated with the covering of the head". However, representatives of both parts of the governing coalition, the centre-right People's Party (OeVP) and the far-right Freedom Party (FPOe), have made it clear that the law is targeted at the Islamic headscarf. FPOe education spokesman Wendelin Moelzer said the law was "a signal against political Islam" while OeVP MP Rudolf Taschner said the measure was necessary to free girls from "subjugation". The government says the patka head covering worn by Sikh boys or the Jewish kippa would not be affected. Austria's official Muslim community organisation IGGOe has previously condemned the proposals as "shameless" and a "diversionary tactic". The IGGOe says that in any case only a "miniscule number" of girls would be affected. Opposition MPs almost all voted against the measure, with some accusing the government of focusing on garnering positive headlines rather than child welfare. The government admits that the law is likely to be challenged at Austria's constitutional court, either on grounds of religious discrimination or because similar legislation affecting schools is normally passed with a two-thirds majority of MPs. The OeVP and FPOe formed a coalition in late 2017 after elections in which both parties took a tough anti-immigration stance and warned of the dangers of so-called "parallel societies".

Austrian MPs approve headscarf ban in primary schools

Alabama's governor on Wednesday signed a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/alabama-senate-passes-toughest-abortion-ban-bill-in-us-218929">bill to ban nearly all abortions in the state</a>, even in cases of rape and incest, in political conservatives' latest challenge to the landmark 1973 US Supreme Court decision establishing a woman's right to terminate her pregnancy.

US abortion-rights activists had already vowed to go court to block enforcement of the Alabama measure, the strictest anti-abortion law yet enacted by abortion foes aiming to provoke reconsideration of the Roe v. Wade ruling.

Governor Kay Ivey, a Republican, signed the measure a day after the Republican-controlled state Senate approved the ban and rejected a provision to allow abortions for women and girls impregnated by rape or incest.

"To the bill’s many supporters, this legislation stands as a powerful testament to Alabamians’ deeply held belief that every life is precious and that every life is a sacred gift from God," Ivey said in a statement. "To all Alabamians, I assure you that we will continue to follow the rule of law."

The law would take effect in six months.

Legislation to restrict abortion rights has been introduced this year in 16 states, four of whose governors have signed bills banning abortion if an embryonic heartbeat can be detected.

Planned Parenthood joined the American Civil Liberties Union on Wednesday in filing a legal challenge to Ohio's recent ban on abortions after six weeks of pregnancy.

The Alabama bill goes further, banning abortions at any time, unless the mother's health is in danger. Those performing abortions would be committing a felony, punishable by up to 99 years in prison. A woman who receives an abortion would not be held criminally liable.

2020 Democratic candidates blast move

Most of the Democratic candidates seeking their party's 2020 nomination to run for the White House condemned the Alabama law, calling it an attack on women's rights and vowing to fight to uphold legal access to abortion.

"The idea that supposed leaders have passed a law that would criminalize a physician for assisting a woman on something that she, in consult with her physician, with her God, with her faith leader, has made the decision to do, that is her body that you would criminalize," US Senator Kamala Harris of California, one of the large field of hopefuls, said at a town hall on Wednesday morning in Nashua, New Hampshire.

Some on Twitter had called on their allies to mail coat hangers to Ivey, as a reminder of the illegal abortion practices common before it was made legal.

Christian television broadcaster Pat Robertson, a staunch critic of Roe v. Wade, said the Alabama law "has gone too far."

“It’s an extreme law, and they want to challenge Roe versus Wade. But my humble view is that this is not the case we want to bring to the Supreme Court because I think this one will lose,” Robertson said on his program, "The 700 Club."

Anti-abortion advocates are aware that any laws they pass are certain to be challenged. Courts this year have blocked a restrictive Kentucky law and another in Iowa passed last year.

But supporters of the Alabama ban said the right to life of the fetus transcended other rights, an idea they would like tested at the Supreme Court.

The high court, now with a majority of conservative justices after Republican President Donald Trump appointed two, could possibly overturn Roe v. Wade. That decision held that the due process clause of the 14th Amendment provides a fundamental right to privacy that protects a woman's right to abortion.

Roe v. Wade did allow states to place restrictions on the procedure from the time a fetus could viably survive outside the womb, except in cases in which a woman's health was otherwise at risk. A fetus is generally considered viable at 22 to 24 weeks. A full-term pregnancy typically is about 40 weeks.

Just this year, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi and Ohio enacted statutes outlawing abortion after a doctor can detect an embryonic heartbeat.

Opponents call the "heartbeat" legislation a virtual ban because embryonic cardiac activity can be detected as early as six weeks, before a woman may even be aware she is pregnant.

Alabama's governor on Wednesday signed a bill to ban nearly all abortions in the state, even in cases of rape and incest, in political conservatives' latest challenge to the landmark 1973 US Supreme Court decision establishing a woman's right to terminate her pregnancy.

Alabama's governor on Wednesday signed a bill to ban nearly all abortions in the state, even in cases of rape and incest, in political conservatives' latest challenge to the landmark 1973 US Supreme Court decision establishing a woman's right to terminate her pregnancy. US abortion-rights activists had already vowed to go court to block enforcement of the Alabama measure, the strictest anti-abortion law yet enacted by abortion foes aiming to provoke reconsideration of the Roe v. Wade ruling. Governor Kay Ivey, a Republican, signed the measure a day after the Republican-controlled state Senate approved the ban and rejected a provision to allow abortions for women and girls impregnated by rape or incest. "To the bill’s many supporters, this legislation stands as a powerful testament to Alabamians’ deeply held belief that every life is precious and that every life is a sacred gift from God," Ivey said in a statement. "To all Alabamians, I assure you that we will continue to follow the rule of law." The law would take effect in six months. Legislation to restrict abortion rights has been introduced this year in 16 states, four of whose governors have signed bills banning abortion if an embryonic heartbeat can be detected. Planned Parenthood joined the American Civil Liberties Union on Wednesday in filing a legal challenge to Ohio's recent ban on abortions after six weeks of pregnancy. The Alabama bill goes further, banning abortions at any time, unless the mother's health is in danger. Those performing abortions would be committing a felony, punishable by up to 99 years in prison. A woman who receives an abortion would not be held criminally liable. 2020 Democratic candidates blast move Most of the Democratic candidates seeking their party's 2020 nomination to run for the White House condemned the Alabama law, calling it an attack on women's rights and vowing to fight to uphold legal access to abortion. "The idea that supposed leaders have passed a law that would criminalize a physician for assisting a woman on something that she, in consult with her physician, with her God, with her faith leader, has made the decision to do, that is her body that you would criminalize," US Senator Kamala Harris of California, one of the large field of hopefuls, said at a town hall on Wednesday morning in Nashua, New Hampshire. Some on Twitter had called on their allies to mail coat hangers to Ivey, as a reminder of the illegal abortion practices common before it was made legal. Christian television broadcaster Pat Robertson, a staunch critic of Roe v. Wade, said the Alabama law "has gone too far." “It’s an extreme law, and they want to challenge Roe versus Wade. But my humble view is that this is not the case we want to bring to the Supreme Court because I think this one will lose,” Robertson said on his program, "The 700 Club." Anti-abortion advocates are aware that any laws they pass are certain to be challenged. Courts this year have blocked a restrictive Kentucky law and another in Iowa passed last year. But supporters of the Alabama ban said the right to life of the fetus transcended other rights, an idea they would like tested at the Supreme Court. The high court, now with a majority of conservative justices after Republican President Donald Trump appointed two, could possibly overturn Roe v. Wade. That decision held that the due process clause of the 14th Amendment provides a fundamental right to privacy that protects a woman's right to abortion. Roe v. Wade did allow states to place restrictions on the procedure from the time a fetus could viably survive outside the womb, except in cases in which a woman's health was otherwise at risk. A fetus is generally considered viable at 22 to 24 weeks. A full-term pregnancy typically is about 40 weeks. Just this year, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi and Ohio enacted statutes outlawing abortion after a doctor can detect an embryonic heartbeat. Opponents call the "heartbeat" legislation a virtual ban because embryonic cardiac activity can be detected as early as six weeks, before a woman may even be aware she is pregnant.

Alabama governor signs nation's strictest abortion ban

Alabama's state Senate passed a bill on Tuesday to outlaw nearly all abortions, creating exceptions only to protect the mother's health, as part of a multistate effort to have the US Supreme Court reconsider a woman's constitutional right to an abortion.

The country's strictest abortion bill was previously approved by the Alabama House of Representatives and will now go to Republican Governor Kay Ivey, who has withheld comment on whether she would sign but is generally a strong opponent of abortion.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-constitutional-court-lifts-abortion-ban-209486">South Korean constitutional court lifts abortion ban</a>

The law, which passed 25-6, would take effect six months after being signed by the governor, but is certain to face legal challenge from the American Civil Liberties Union and other groups which have vowed to sue.

Legislation to restrict abortion rights has been introduced this year in 16 states, four of whose governors have signed bills banning abortion if an embryonic heartbeat can be detected.

The Alabama bill goes further, banning abortions at any time. Those performing abortions would be committing a felony, punishable by 10 to 99 years in prison, although a woman who receives an abortion would not be held criminally liable.

The Republican-controlled Alabama Senate also defeated a Democratic amendment that would have allowed legal abortions for women and girls impregnated by rape and incest.

Anti-abortion advocates know any laws they pass are certain to be challenged, and courts this year have blocked a restrictive Kentucky law and another in Iowa passed last year.

But supporters of the Alabama ban said the right to life of the unborn child transcends other rights, an idea they would like tested.

Republican Senator Clyde Chambliss, arguing in favor of the Alabama bill, said the whole point was "so that we can go directly to the Supreme Court to challenge Roe versus Wade."

The high court, now with a majority of conservative justices after Republican President Donald Trump appointed two, could possibly overturn Roe v. Wade, the 1973 landmark decision establishing a woman's right to an abortion.

Just this year, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi and Ohio have outlawed abortion after a doctor can detect an embryonic heartbeat.

Opponents call the "heartbeat" legislation a virtual ban because embryonic cardiac activity can be detected as early as six weeks, before a woman may be aware she is pregnant.

Democratic state Senator Linda Coleman-Madison called the Republicans hypocritical for advocating small government that ought to stay out of private matters but "now you want in my womb; I want you out."

All 27 Republican senators are men.

The group Physicians for Reproductive Health said the near total ban on abortions would have a disastrous effect on healthcare.

"Physicians will be unwilling to help patients in need, even when continuing pregnancy is detrimental to a patient's health, or potentially fatal, out of fear of being scrutinized by the criminal justice system," Dr. Yashica Robinson, a board member and ob/gyn, said in a statement.

The National Organization for Women (NOW) denounced the ban as unconstitutional.

"This is a transparent effort to drum up political support for anti-abortion candidates in upcoming elections and serves as a direct threat to women's health, autonomy and pursuit of happiness," NOW said in a statement.

Actress and activist Alyssa Milano has called for a sex strike under the social media hashtag #SexStrike in response to the campaigns against abortion rights, urging women to refuse sex with men "until we get bodily autonomy back."

Alabama's state Senate passed a bill on Tuesday to outlaw nearly all abortions, creating exceptions only to protect the mother's health, as part of a multistate effort to have the US Supreme Court reconsider a woman's constitutional right to an abortion.

Alabama's state Senate passed a bill on Tuesday to outlaw nearly all abortions, creating exceptions only to protect the mother's health, as part of a multistate effort to have the US Supreme Court reconsider a woman's constitutional right to an abortion. The country's strictest abortion bill was previously approved by the Alabama House of Representatives and will now go to Republican Governor Kay Ivey, who has withheld comment on whether she would sign but is generally a strong opponent of abortion. Also read: South Korean constitutional court lifts abortion ban The law, which passed 25-6, would take effect six months after being signed by the governor, but is certain to face legal challenge from the American Civil Liberties Union and other groups which have vowed to sue. Legislation to restrict abortion rights has been introduced this year in 16 states, four of whose governors have signed bills banning abortion if an embryonic heartbeat can be detected. The Alabama bill goes further, banning abortions at any time. Those performing abortions would be committing a felony, punishable by 10 to 99 years in prison, although a woman who receives an abortion would not be held criminally liable. The Republican-controlled Alabama Senate also defeated a Democratic amendment that would have allowed legal abortions for women and girls impregnated by rape and incest. Anti-abortion advocates know any laws they pass are certain to be challenged, and courts this year have blocked a restrictive Kentucky law and another in Iowa passed last year. But supporters of the Alabama ban said the right to life of the unborn child transcends other rights, an idea they would like tested. Republican Senator Clyde Chambliss, arguing in favor of the Alabama bill, said the whole point was "so that we can go directly to the Supreme Court to challenge Roe versus Wade." The high court, now with a majority of conservative justices after Republican President Donald Trump appointed two, could possibly overturn Roe v. Wade, the 1973 landmark decision establishing a woman's right to an abortion. Just this year, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi and Ohio have outlawed abortion after a doctor can detect an embryonic heartbeat. Opponents call the "heartbeat" legislation a virtual ban because embryonic cardiac activity can be detected as early as six weeks, before a woman may be aware she is pregnant. Democratic state Senator Linda Coleman-Madison called the Republicans hypocritical for advocating small government that ought to stay out of private matters but "now you want in my womb; I want you out." All 27 Republican senators are men. The group Physicians for Reproductive Health said the near total ban on abortions would have a disastrous effect on healthcare. "Physicians will be unwilling to help patients in need, even when continuing pregnancy is detrimental to a patient's health, or potentially fatal, out of fear of being scrutinized by the criminal justice system," Dr. Yashica Robinson, a board member and ob/gyn, said in a statement. The National Organization for Women (NOW) denounced the ban as unconstitutional. "This is a transparent effort to drum up political support for anti-abortion candidates in upcoming elections and serves as a direct threat to women's health, autonomy and pursuit of happiness," NOW said in a statement. Actress and activist Alyssa Milano has called for a sex strike under the social media hashtag #SexStrike in response to the campaigns against abortion rights, urging women to refuse sex with men "until we get bodily autonomy back."

Alabama Senate bans nearly all abortions, including rape cases

The central government has extended the ban on the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) for another five years with immediate effect, a Home Ministry notification issued Tuesday said.

The ban was extended under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, it said.

LTTE's continued violent and disruptive activities are prejudicial to the integrity and sovereignty of India, the notification said.

The outfit continues to adopt a strong anti-India posture and poses a grave threat to the security of Indian nationals, the notification said.

The central government has extended the ban on the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) for another five years with immediate effect, a Home Ministry notification issued Tuesday said.

The central government has extended the ban on the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) for another five years with immediate effect, a Home Ministry notification issued Tuesday said. The ban was extended under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, it said. LTTE's continued violent and disruptive activities are prejudicial to the integrity and sovereignty of India, the notification said. The outfit continues to adopt a strong anti-India posture and poses a grave threat to the security of Indian nationals, the notification said.

Government extends ban on LTTE for five more years: Home Ministry

The Home Ministry on Tuesday issued a notification&nbsp;extending a ban on the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) for another five years.

The ban was extended with immediate effect&nbsp;under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.

LTTE's continued violent and disruptive activities are prejudicial to the integrity and sovereignty of India, the notification said.

The outfit continues to adopt a strong anti-India posture and poses a grave threat to the security of Indian nationals, the notification said.

The LTTE group emerged in Sri Lanka as an outcome of the&nbsp;growing resentment of the Tamil group in the country.

Hundreds of thousands of Tamils lost their jobs after Sinhala was selected as the national language in 1956.

The group soon became the strongest of all rebel groups, based on its unswerving demand for a separate Tamil homeland.

Tensions ran high between the government and the rebel group in July 1983, leading to a full-blown civil war.

In a massive anti-Tamil pogrom that followed, Tamils were hunted and slaughtered. This further led to a spate of attacks by the LTTE. The group carried out a slew of brutal suicide attacks in the 90s.

Sri Lanka has come a long way since the decimation of the Tamil liberation group.

&nbsp;

The Home Ministry on Tuesday issued a notification extending a ban on the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) for another five years. The ban was extended with immediate effect under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.

The Home Ministry on Tuesday issued a notification extending a ban on the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) for another five years. The ban was extended with immediate effect under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. LTTE's continued violent and disruptive activities are prejudicial to the integrity and sovereignty of India, the notification said. The outfit continues to adopt a strong anti-India posture and poses a grave threat to the security of Indian nationals, the notification said. The LTTE group emerged in Sri Lanka as an outcome of the growing resentment of the Tamil group in the country. Hundreds of thousands of Tamils lost their jobs after Sinhala was selected as the national language in 1956. The group soon became the strongest of all rebel groups, based on its unswerving demand for a separate Tamil homeland. Tensions ran high between the government and the rebel group in July 1983, leading to a full-blown civil war. In a massive anti-Tamil pogrom that followed, Tamils were hunted and slaughtered. This further led to a spate of attacks by the LTTE. The group carried out a slew of brutal suicide attacks in the 90s. Sri Lanka has come a long way since the decimation of the Tamil liberation group.

The Sri Lankan authorities on Monday reimposed the curfew, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-imposes-curfew-in-western-coastal-town-after-communal-clashes-218047">few hours after it was lifted on four towns</a> in the northwestern region following communal violence in the area.

"Curfew was lifted at 6 am this morning from Kuliyapitiya, Hettipola, Bingiriya and Dummalasuriya towns," a police official said.

"However, following a communal clash in the afternoon at Hettipola, the curfew was re-imposed with immediate effect till 4 am tomorrow on the area and its neighbouring towns of Kuliyapitiya, Bingiriya and Dummalasuriya," the official added.

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Earlier today,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-blocks-some-social-media-platforms-after-mosque-attack-in-chilaw-218230"> the Lankan government temporarily blocked some social media network</a> and instant messaging apps after violent incidents marred the country in the fallout of Easter suicide bombings

Several dozen people threw stones at mosques and Muslim-owned stores and a man was beaten in the town of Chilaw on the west coast on Sunday in a dispute that started on Facebook, news agency Reuters reported.

Some temporarily blocked apps include Facebook Messenger and Whatsapp.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Sri Lankan authorities on Monday reimposed the curfew, few hours after it was lifted on four towns in the northwestern region following communal violence in the area.

The Sri Lankan authorities on Monday reimposed the curfew, few hours after it was lifted on four towns in the northwestern region following communal violence in the area. "Curfew was lifted at 6 am this morning from Kuliyapitiya, Hettipola, Bingiriya and Dummalasuriya towns," a police official said. "However, following a communal clash in the afternoon at Hettipola, the curfew was re-imposed with immediate effect till 4 am tomorrow on the area and its neighbouring towns of Kuliyapitiya, Bingiriya and Dummalasuriya," the official added. Earlier today, the Lankan government temporarily blocked some social media network and instant messaging apps after violent incidents marred the country in the fallout of Easter suicide bombings Several dozen people threw stones at mosques and Muslim-owned stores and a man was beaten in the town of Chilaw on the west coast on Sunday in a dispute that started on Facebook, news agency Reuters reported. Some temporarily blocked apps include Facebook Messenger and Whatsapp. (With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lankan authorities reimpose ban on four towns following communal violence

The Delhi government has extended the ban on the manufacture, storage, sale or distribution of gutkha, pan masala and any other tobacco products for one year in the national capital.

The Food Safety Department has issued a notification extending the ban on these products.

The notification has been issued by Food Safety Commissioner L R Garg.

"Commissioner (Food Safety), National Capital Territory of Delhi, prohibits in the interest of public health for a period of one year in NCT the manufacture, storage, distribution, or sale of tobacco which is either flavoured, scented or mixed with any of the said additives, and whether going by the name or form of gutkha, pan masala, flavoured/scented tobacco, kharra..." it stated.

No such ban, however, will be enforced on cigarettes.

The Delhi government has extended the ban on the manufacture, storage, sale or distribution of gutkha, pan masala and any other tobacco products for one year in the national capital.

The Delhi government has extended the ban on the manufacture, storage, sale or distribution of gutkha, pan masala and any other tobacco products for one year in the national capital. The Food Safety Department has issued a notification extending the ban on these products. The notification has been issued by Food Safety Commissioner L R Garg. "Commissioner (Food Safety), National Capital Territory of Delhi, prohibits in the interest of public health for a period of one year in NCT the manufacture, storage, distribution, or sale of tobacco which is either flavoured, scented or mixed with any of the said additives, and whether going by the name or form of gutkha, pan masala, flavoured/scented tobacco, kharra..." it stated. No such ban, however, will be enforced on cigarettes.

Delhi govt extends ban on manufacture, sale of gutkha, pan masala, tobacco products for one year

As the 72-hour campaigning ban imposed on him by the Election Commission came to an end, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Friday said that respect for constitutional bodies was part of the BJP's ideology.

IEW: Back from Ban, Yogi Adityanath Campaigns

Mike Pompeo slams China for blocking ban on Masood Azhar

Yusuf Pathan&nbsp;was <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-cricketer-yusuf-pathan-suspended-for-5-months-failing-a-dope-test-28991" target="_blank">suspended by the BCCI for 5 months</a> Tuesday on account of failing a dope test.

On October 27, 2017, Pathan was charged with the commission of an anti-doping rule violation (ADRV) under the BCCI's Anti-Doping Rules (ADR).

According to BCCI,&nbsp;Pathan had provided a urine sample as part of the BCCI’s anti-doping testing program during a domestic T-20 competition on March 16, 2017 in New Delhi.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yusuf-pathan-dope-case-bcci-satisfied-with-his-explanation-29004" target="_blank">Yusuf Pathan's 5-month suspension to end in 5 days</a>

His sample was subsequently tested and found to contain Terbutaline. Terbutaline, a banned substance, is prohibited both in and out of competition by the World Anti-Doping Agency.

The five-month ban, which began on August 15, 2017, will end at midnight on January 14, 2018.

Pathan released a statement saying, "I wish to thank the BCCI for allowing me to plead my case in a fair and reasonable manner."

"The prohibited substances were detected in my sample because of a medicine I was taking for a throat infection," he said.

"I should have been more careful and checked the status of the medications with BCCI's dedicated Anti-Doping Helpline," he added.

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On receiving the statement from Yusuf Pathan, BCCI is satisfied and convinced&nbsp;that he had taken Terbutaline inadvertently to treat an Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (URTI) and not as a performance-enhancing drug.

Having considered all of the evidence and taken expert external advice, the BCCI has accepted Pathan’s explanation of the cause of his ADRV, and on that basis has agreed that a period of ineligibility of five months should apply, together with the disqualification of certain results.

The all-rounder&nbsp;has played 57 ODIs and 22 T20 Internationals for India and will resume his&nbsp;game from 14th January 2018. He has not played for India since 2012 but has been seen in the Indian Premier League, turning up for the Kolkata Knight Riders.

The end of the ban means he will be available on 27th and 28th January for player's auction as&nbsp;is a free agent now&nbsp;for the upcoming Indian Premier League because KKR has retained Sunil&nbsp;Naraine and Andre Russell and not him.

&nbsp;

The BCCI said Tuesday it was convinced with Pathan's explanation that he had taken the banned substance inadvertently

Yusuf Pathan was suspended by the BCCI for 5 months Tuesday on account of failing a dope test. On October 27, 2017, Pathan was charged with the commission of an anti-doping rule violation (ADRV) under the BCCI's Anti-Doping Rules (ADR). According to BCCI, Pathan had provided a urine sample as part of the BCCI’s anti-doping testing program during a domestic T-20 competition on March 16, 2017 in New Delhi. Also read: Yusuf Pathan's 5-month suspension to end in 5 days His sample was subsequently tested and found to contain Terbutaline. Terbutaline, a banned substance, is prohibited both in and out of competition by the World Anti-Doping Agency. The five-month ban, which began on August 15, 2017, will end at midnight on January 14, 2018. Pathan released a statement saying, "I wish to thank the BCCI for allowing me to plead my case in a fair and reasonable manner." "The prohibited substances were detected in my sample because of a medicine I was taking for a throat infection," he said. "I should have been more careful and checked the status of the medications with BCCI's dedicated Anti-Doping Helpline," he added. Yusuf Pathan releases statement says, 'I wish to thank the BCCI for allowing me to plead my case in a fair and reasonable manner.' pic.twitter.com/R9Plv3gfQo — ANI (@ANI) January 9, 2018 × On receiving the statement from Yusuf Pathan, BCCI is satisfied and convinced that he had taken Terbutaline inadvertently to treat an Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (URTI) and not as a performance-enhancing drug. Having considered all of the evidence and taken expert external advice, the BCCI has accepted Pathan’s explanation of the cause of his ADRV, and on that basis has agreed that a period of ineligibility of five months should apply, together with the disqualification of certain results. The all-rounder has played 57 ODIs and 22 T20 Internationals for India and will resume his game from 14th January 2018. He has not played for India since 2012 but has been seen in the Indian Premier League, turning up for the Kolkata Knight Riders. The end of the ban means he will be available on 27th and 28th January for player's auction as is a free agent now for the upcoming Indian Premier League because KKR has retained Sunil Naraine and Andre Russell and not him.

Banned substance was in my cough syrup: Yusuf Pathan

New Zealand on Thursday banned assault rifles, semi-automatic rifles, high-capacity magazines, and parts that convert guns into military-style semi-automatic (MSSA) rifles. &nbsp;

The announcement was made by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern after last Friday's attack on two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bullet-riddled-new-zealand-mosque-to-reopen-for-friday-prayers-more-victims-buried-204613">left 50 people dead</a>.&nbsp;

A 28-year-old Australian and white supremacist had walked up to the Al Noor mosque and started shooting with automatic rifles. He then drove away, walked up to a second mosque — the Linwood mosque — and started shooting again. He used a total of five rifles.&nbsp;

The youngest of his victims was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-mosque-attacks-youngest-victim-was-3-years-old-say-families-203805">three years old</a>, the families of the dead said. &nbsp;

"Now, six days after this attack, we are announcing a ban on all military-style semi-automatics (MSSA) and assault rifles in New Zealand," Reuters quoted Ardern as saying on Thursday.

“Related parts used to convert these guns into MSSAs are also being banned, along with all high-capacity magazines," she added.&nbsp;

Ardern has come in for tremendous praise for her handling of the crisis — the worst mass shooting in her country's history.&nbsp;

She has refused to name the terrorist who carried out the shootings, saying he should not be given the fame he desired. She has called the massacre a terrorist attack, and offered consolation to New Zealand's Muslim communities.&nbsp;

"New Zealand is their home... They are us," she had said.&nbsp;

When US President Donald Trump called her after the attacks, offering to help, Ardern, who is 38,&nbsp;said he could by offering "love and compassion" to Muslim communities all over the world.&nbsp;

And she promptly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-pm-vows-gun-reforms-after-racist-mosque-massacre-203623">vowed gun reform</a>.&nbsp;

New Zealanders have followed her lead, placing flowers and cards at memorial sites for the dead and offering innumerable hakas — the ceremonial Maori dance — <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-man-performs-emotional-haka-dance-to-pay-tribute-to-new-zealand-mosque-shooting-victims-204322">to remember the dead</a>.&nbsp;

Ardern has also asked that attention not be directed at her but at the victims.&nbsp;

New Zealand on Thursday banned assault rifles, semi-automatic rifles, high-capacity magazines, and parts that convert guns into military-style semi-automatic (MSSA) rifles.

New Zealand on Thursday banned assault rifles, semi-automatic rifles, high-capacity magazines, and parts that convert guns into military-style semi-automatic (MSSA) rifles. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern after last Friday's attack on two mosques in the New Zealand city of Christchurch left 50 people dead. A 28-year-old Australian and white supremacist had walked up to the Al Noor mosque and started shooting with automatic rifles. He then drove away, walked up to a second mosque — the Linwood mosque — and started shooting again. He used a total of five rifles. The youngest of his victims was three years old, the families of the dead said. "Now, six days after this attack, we are announcing a ban on all military-style semi-automatics (MSSA) and assault rifles in New Zealand," Reuters quoted Ardern as saying on Thursday. “Related parts used to convert these guns into MSSAs are also being banned, along with all high-capacity magazines," she added. Ardern has come in for tremendous praise for her handling of the crisis — the worst mass shooting in her country's history. She has refused to name the terrorist who carried out the shootings, saying he should not be given the fame he desired. She has called the massacre a terrorist attack, and offered consolation to New Zealand's Muslim communities. "New Zealand is their home... They are us," she had said. When US President Donald Trump called her after the attacks, offering to help, Ardern, who is 38, said he could by offering "love and compassion" to Muslim communities all over the world. And she promptly vowed gun reform. New Zealanders have followed her lead, placing flowers and cards at memorial sites for the dead and offering innumerable hakas — the ceremonial Maori dance — to remember the dead. Ardern has also asked that attention not be directed at her but at the victims.

New Zealand bans assault, semi-automatic rifles after mosque massacre leaves 50 dead

Australia on Wednesday cut its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/abuse-rife-in-australian-immigration-centre-leaked-reports-4618">annual intake of immigrants</a> by nearly 15 per cent, and barred some new arrivals from living in its largest cities for three years, in a bid to ease urban congestion.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison —&nbsp;who is trailing badly in the polls ahead of a federal election in May —&nbsp;hopes to tap into rising voter frustration over house prices and congestion, which some see as a consequence of population growth.

"This is a practical problem that Australians wanted addressed," Morrison told reporters in Canberra, the capital, after announcing the annual immigration intake would be cut to 160,000 people, with effect from July 1, versus 190,000 before.

The policy change comes at a time of national reflection over Australia's attitude towards migrants after the shooting of at least 50 people at two mosques in New Zealand's city of Christchurch.

Australian Brenton Tarrant, 28, a suspected white supremacist, was charged with murder on Saturday after a lone gunman opened fire at the two mosques during Friday prayers.

"My great frustration is that, in addressing these issues of population and immigration programs, these debates often get hijacked by those of competing views who seek to exploit them for other causes," Morrison added.

"I reject all of that absolutely."

A ReachTel poll published in September showed that 63 per cent of Sydney residents supported curbs on the number of migrants moving to Australia's biggest city.

Morrison said the cap would include places for up to 23,000 people who could migrate to Australia under a new skilled visa.

Such arrivals could gain permanent residency after living outside of Australia's largest cities for three years, he added.

They will be barred from living in Melbourne, Perth, Sydney or the Gold Coast, where infrastructure is overutilised, said immigration minister David Coleman.

Authorities will require proof of residential and work addresses in future applications for permanent residency, he added, as a way of enforcing the requirement.

Business welcomed the bid to alleviate regional skill shortages.

"While Australians in our major cities are frustrated by congestion, those in our regions have told us they need more people, skills, jobs and investment," said Jennifer Westacott, chief executive of the Australian Business Council.

There is no cap on temporary migration, such as students on temporary visas, who form the bulk of migrants to Australia, which issued 378,292 student visas in the year to June 30, 2018.

Australia on Wednesday cut its annual intake of immigrants by nearly 15 per cent, and barred some new arrivals from living in its largest cities for three years, in a bid to ease urban congestion.

Australia on Wednesday cut its annual intake of immigrants by nearly 15 per cent, and barred some new arrivals from living in its largest cities for three years, in a bid to ease urban congestion. Prime Minister Scott Morrison — who is trailing badly in the polls ahead of a federal election in May — hopes to tap into rising voter frustration over house prices and congestion, which some see as a consequence of population growth. "This is a practical problem that Australians wanted addressed," Morrison told reporters in Canberra, the capital, after announcing the annual immigration intake would be cut to 160,000 people, with effect from July 1, versus 190,000 before. The policy change comes at a time of national reflection over Australia's attitude towards migrants after the shooting of at least 50 people at two mosques in New Zealand's city of Christchurch. Australian Brenton Tarrant, 28, a suspected white supremacist, was charged with murder on Saturday after a lone gunman opened fire at the two mosques during Friday prayers. "My great frustration is that, in addressing these issues of population and immigration programs, these debates often get hijacked by those of competing views who seek to exploit them for other causes," Morrison added. "I reject all of that absolutely." A ReachTel poll published in September showed that 63 per cent of Sydney residents supported curbs on the number of migrants moving to Australia's biggest city. Morrison said the cap would include places for up to 23,000 people who could migrate to Australia under a new skilled visa. Such arrivals could gain permanent residency after living outside of Australia's largest cities for three years, he added. They will be barred from living in Melbourne, Perth, Sydney or the Gold Coast, where infrastructure is overutilised, said immigration minister David Coleman. Authorities will require proof of residential and work addresses in future applications for permanent residency, he added, as a way of enforcing the requirement. Business welcomed the bid to alleviate regional skill shortages. "While Australians in our major cities are frustrated by congestion, those in our regions have told us they need more people, skills, jobs and investment," said Jennifer Westacott, chief executive of the Australian Business Council. There is no cap on temporary migration, such as students on temporary visas, who form the bulk of migrants to Australia, which issued 378,292 student visas in the year to June 30, 2018.

Australia says some new immigrants will not be allowed to live in its biggest cities

All Boeing 737 Max planes flying in the country have now been grounded. The ban came into effect at 4 pm on Wednesday after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/four-indians-among-those-dead-in-ethiopian-airlines-plane-crash-202378">two recent crashes of the aircraft</a>, one in Ethiopia this Sunday and one in October last year in Indonesia.&nbsp;

"As of now, all flights of Boeing 737 Max have been grounded," Pradeep Singh Kharola, secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, said on Wednesday. &nbsp;

Kharola added that the flights were grounded "before the deadline of 4 pm", but he also warned that tomorrow will be "a real challenging day".&nbsp;

"Today, SpiceJet cancelled 14 flights. It operates 500 plus flights daily and 14 were cancelled. They've been able to accommodate all passengers on their own. Tomorrow is going to be a real challenging day, as today grounding came into effect in second half of the day," Kharola said.&nbsp;

He added that the government had had a "discussion with the airlines as to how they plan to reduce inconvenience to passengers".&nbsp;

At the moment, SpiceJet is the only Indian airline flying the Boeing 737 Max 8.&nbsp;

It has 12 of them.&nbsp;

Jet Airlines has 5 of the Boeings, but they were already grounded before the Ethiopian Airlines crash on Sunday.&nbsp;

"SpiceJet says they've increased utilisation of existing aircraft," Kharola said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

He said that "about 30-35 flights will get affected tomorrow" but that SpiceJet have "assured that no airport that has SpiceJet service will go unserviced."&nbsp;

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MoCA Secy: Today SpiceJet has cancelled 14 flights, it operates 500 plus flights daily &amp; 14 were cancelled. They've been able to accommodate all passengers on their own. Tomorrow is going to be a real challenging day, as today grounding came into effect in 2nd half of the day <a href="https://t.co/S7aykJOaf2">pic.twitter.com/S7aykJOaf2</a>
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He added that SpiceJet would set up a special cell to monitor passengers' complaints.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

All Boeing 737 Max planes flying in the country have now been grounded. The ban came into effect at 4 pm on Wednesday after two recent crashes of the aircraft, one in Ethiopia this Sunday and one in October last year in Indonesia.

All Boeing 737 Max planes flying in the country have now been grounded. The ban came into effect at 4 pm on Wednesday after two recent crashes of the aircraft, one in Ethiopia this Sunday and one in October last year in Indonesia. "As of now, all flights of Boeing 737 Max have been grounded," Pradeep Singh Kharola, secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, said on Wednesday. Kharola added that the flights were grounded "before the deadline of 4 pm", but he also warned that tomorrow will be "a real challenging day". "Today, SpiceJet cancelled 14 flights. It operates 500 plus flights daily and 14 were cancelled. They've been able to accommodate all passengers on their own. Tomorrow is going to be a real challenging day, as today grounding came into effect in second half of the day," Kharola said. He added that the government had had a "discussion with the airlines as to how they plan to reduce inconvenience to passengers". At the moment, SpiceJet is the only Indian airline flying the Boeing 737 Max 8. It has 12 of them. Jet Airlines has 5 of the Boeings, but they were already grounded before the Ethiopian Airlines crash on Sunday. "SpiceJet says they've increased utilisation of existing aircraft," Kharola said on Wednesday. He said that "about 30-35 flights will get affected tomorrow" but that SpiceJet have "assured that no airport that has SpiceJet service will go unserviced." MoCA Secy: Today SpiceJet has cancelled 14 flights, it operates 500 plus flights daily & 14 were cancelled. They've been able to accommodate all passengers on their own. Tomorrow is going to be a real challenging day, as today grounding came into effect in 2nd half of the day pic.twitter.com/S7aykJOaf2 — ANI (@ANI) March 13, 2019 × He added that SpiceJet would set up a special cell to monitor passengers' complaints.

India: All Boeing 737 Max planes now grounded, government warns tomorrow will be 'real challenging day'

India has grounded all Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft.&nbsp;

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation said late Tuesday that it had banned the aircraft from flying in light of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-call-you-when-i-land-texted-indian-passenger-who-lost-life-in-ethiopia-crash-202892">Ethiopian Airlines crash</a> on Sunday which killed all 157 people, including four Indians, on board.&nbsp;

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Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has taken the decision to ground the Boeing 737-MAX planes immediately. <a href="https://t.co/jWS7qZaDYQ">pic.twitter.com/jWS7qZaDYQ</a>
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This was the second Boeing 737 Max 8 crash in less than five months.&nbsp;

On October 29 last year, a Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft belonging to the Indonesian carrier Lion Air <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-boy-bhavye-suneja-was-reportedly-flying-lion-air-plane-that-crashed-with-189-on-board-174149">had crashed into the Java Sea about 12 minutes after taking off</a> from Jakarta.&nbsp;

The Ethiopian Airlines plane, which had been en route to Nairobi, had crashed about six minutes after taking off from the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa.&nbsp;

"We are likely to ban the use of 737 Max 8 by Indian airlines... The discussions are ongoing," PTI had quoted a DGCA official as saying earlier on Tuesday.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/spicejet-defends-sophisticated-boeing-737-max-202917">SpiceJet</a> currently has around 12 Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft in its fleet, while Jet Airways has five, which are currently grounded.

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

India has grounded all Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation said late Tuesday that it had banned the aircraft from flying in light of the Ethiopian Airlines crash on Sunday which killed all 157 people, including four Indians, on board.

India has grounded all Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation said late Tuesday that it had banned the aircraft from flying in light of the Ethiopian Airlines crash on Sunday which killed all 157 people, including four Indians, on board. Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has taken the decision to ground the Boeing 737-MAX planes immediately. pic.twitter.com/jWS7qZaDYQ — ANI (@ANI) March 12, 2019 × This was the second Boeing 737 Max 8 crash in less than five months. On October 29 last year, a Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft belonging to the Indonesian carrier Lion Air had crashed into the Java Sea about 12 minutes after taking off from Jakarta. The Ethiopian Airlines plane, which had been en route to Nairobi, had crashed about six minutes after taking off from the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa. "We are likely to ban the use of 737 Max 8 by Indian airlines... The discussions are ongoing," PTI had quoted a DGCA official as saying earlier on Tuesday. SpiceJet currently has around 12 Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft in its fleet, while Jet Airways has five, which are currently grounded. (With inputs from PTI)

After second crash in 5 months, India bans Boeing's 737 Max 8 aircraft

Thousands cheer as a caravan of camels outfitted in decoratives saddles and garlands lumber across a dusty pitch to fight -- a sport that is officially banned in Pakistan but remains popular.&nbsp;

The crowd scream to the din of dhol drums and inch closer to the animals as anticipation mounts ahead of the bout, which is part of a festival in the central city of Layyah.&nbsp;

Before the fight begins, the camels are stripped of their festive pom poms and bells.

Then the games begin.

Animals wrestle with their necks and bite as they attempt to pin their adversary to the ground. There are howls of pain and grunts.

"It is a cultural fair and people came here to see it with passion and zeal," spectator Atiq ur Rehman told AFP.&nbsp;

"You can see the excitement around here.

Eventually, the referee declares a winner, prompting fans to surge forward to encircle the victorious animal.

The owner sits proudly on the camel's back celebrating success -- but also prize money of around 100,000 rupees ($715).

Camel fighting is illegal in Pakistan but the event at the Layyah festival still draws a significant crowd.

The country has a long history of bloodsports -- with bears, cocks, and dogs, among the other creatures forced to fight.

"According to the Pakistani law, all animal fights are illegal," said lawyer Abdul Ahad Shah of the Animal Welfare Organisation.

He added that most camels injured in the fights are not given proper medical care.&nbsp;

"Villagers use local remedies to treat wounds. It's cruel," Shah explained.&nbsp;

Enthusiasts brush away the criticism, saying the fights are a tradition in the country's Punjab heartland.

The animals are usually trained for more than a year before they take part in any fights.&nbsp;

"It shows our culture," said local elder Muhammad Ali Jatoi. "People gather here, greet each other and forget the anxieties of life."

Pakistan does little to enforce its bans on any kind of animal fighting, though there are sporadic crackdowns.

Last year it passed an amendment to its Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Bill which suggested the fine for inciting animals to fight should be increased from 50 rupees to 300,000 rupees.&nbsp;

The original law was set by the British in 1890 and had not been amended.&nbsp;

The Koran also instructs Muslims to avoid animal fighting as a sport.

Camel wrestling is also common in Afghanistan and the Middle East. The practice dates back thousands of years.&nbsp;

In Turkey, which hosts the hugely popular Selcuk Camel Wrestling Festival, local media reported attempts by local politicians for the activity to be listed on the UNESCO Intangible World Heritage List.

Thousands cheer as a caravan of camels outfitted in decoratives saddles and garlands lumber across a dusty pitch to fight -- a sport that is officially banned in Pakistan but remains popular.

Thousands cheer as a caravan of camels outfitted in decoratives saddles and garlands lumber across a dusty pitch to fight -- a sport that is officially banned in Pakistan but remains popular. The crowd scream to the din of dhol drums and inch closer to the animals as anticipation mounts ahead of the bout, which is part of a festival in the central city of Layyah. Before the fight begins, the camels are stripped of their festive pom poms and bells. Then the games begin. Animals wrestle with their necks and bite as they attempt to pin their adversary to the ground. There are howls of pain and grunts. "It is a cultural fair and people came here to see it with passion and zeal," spectator Atiq ur Rehman told AFP. "You can see the excitement around here. Eventually, the referee declares a winner, prompting fans to surge forward to encircle the victorious animal. The owner sits proudly on the camel's back celebrating success -- but also prize money of around 100,000 rupees ($715). Camel fighting is illegal in Pakistan but the event at the Layyah festival still draws a significant crowd. The country has a long history of bloodsports -- with bears, cocks, and dogs, among the other creatures forced to fight. "According to the Pakistani law, all animal fights are illegal," said lawyer Abdul Ahad Shah of the Animal Welfare Organisation. He added that most camels injured in the fights are not given proper medical care. "Villagers use local remedies to treat wounds. It's cruel," Shah explained. Enthusiasts brush away the criticism, saying the fights are a tradition in the country's Punjab heartland. The animals are usually trained for more than a year before they take part in any fights. "It shows our culture," said local elder Muhammad Ali Jatoi. "People gather here, greet each other and forget the anxieties of life." Pakistan does little to enforce its bans on any kind of animal fighting, though there are sporadic crackdowns. Last year it passed an amendment to its Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Bill which suggested the fine for inciting animals to fight should be increased from 50 rupees to 300,000 rupees. The original law was set by the British in 1890 and had not been amended. The Koran also instructs Muslims to avoid animal fighting as a sport. Camel wrestling is also common in Afghanistan and the Middle East. The practice dates back thousands of years. In Turkey, which hosts the hugely popular Selcuk Camel Wrestling Festival, local media reported attempts by local politicians for the activity to be listed on the UNESCO Intangible World Heritage List.

Culture or cruelty? Camel fighting persists in Pakistan despite ban

Under pressure from the world community to act on terror, Pakistan on Monday banned 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed's Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) and Falah-e-Insaniat (FiF) by issuing a United Nations Security Council (Freezing and Seizure) Order (SRO), 2019.

The objective of the SRO is to make certain UN Security Council sanctions are applied on individuals and entities such as the JuD and FiF. The UNSC list includes the names of the al-Qaeda, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, JuD, FiF, Lashkar-e-Taiba and other organisations and individuals.

The SRO overrides all previous local listings and under it, the assets of terror groups are frozen and taken over by the Pakistani government.

But India has dismissed the actions taken.&nbsp;

"JUD, LeT, FiF have been banned by UN since 2009. So is Pak saying they are following that decision now? &nbsp;If so what were they doing all these many years," top government sources told WION.&nbsp;

"Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me," the sources added.&nbsp;

Pakistan's flip-flop was very visible earlier in the day as a list from Pakistan's interior ministry's NACTA or the national counter-terrorism authority placed the JuD and FiF in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/after-saying-it-will-pakistan-does-not-ban-hafiz-saeeds-jud-fif-201111">organisations "under watch" category</a> despite Pakistan declaring publicly on February 21 that both would be banned.

The banning had been decided after a national security committee meeting held under the chairmanship of Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in February.

The announcement of the ban came during the Financial Action Task Force or FATF meet in Paris from February 17 to 22 at which Pakistan was put under tremendous pressure to act on terror. &nbsp;

FATF had slammed Islamabad in a statement after the week-long meet, saying the country had not demonstrated a "proper understanding" of the terror financing risks posed by Islamic State, al-Qaeda, JuD, FiF, LeT, JeM, the Haqqani Network, and persons affiliated with the Taliban.

In the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack on February 14 in which at least 40 CRPF personnel died, the US, UK, France, Germany, Japan, Austrlia, and the EU have called for Pakistan to act against terror groups on its soil.

Under pressure from the world community to act on terror, Pakistan on Monday banned 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed's Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) and Falah-e-Insaniat (FiF) by issuing a United Nations Security Council (Freezing and Seizure) Order (SRO), 2019.

Under pressure from the world community to act on terror, Pakistan on Monday banned 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed's Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) and Falah-e-Insaniat (FiF) by issuing a United Nations Security Council (Freezing and Seizure) Order (SRO), 2019. The objective of the SRO is to make certain UN Security Council sanctions are applied on individuals and entities such as the JuD and FiF. The UNSC list includes the names of the al-Qaeda, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, JuD, FiF, Lashkar-e-Taiba and other organisations and individuals. The SRO overrides all previous local listings and under it, the assets of terror groups are frozen and taken over by the Pakistani government. But India has dismissed the actions taken. "JUD, LeT, FiF have been banned by UN since 2009. So is Pak saying they are following that decision now? If so what were they doing all these many years," top government sources told WION. "Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me," the sources added. Pakistan's flip-flop was very visible earlier in the day as a list from Pakistan's interior ministry's NACTA or the national counter-terrorism authority placed the JuD and FiF in the organisations "under watch" category despite Pakistan declaring publicly on February 21 that both would be banned. The banning had been decided after a national security committee meeting held under the chairmanship of Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in February. The announcement of the ban came during the Financial Action Task Force or FATF meet in Paris from February 17 to 22 at which Pakistan was put under tremendous pressure to act on terror. FATF had slammed Islamabad in a statement after the week-long meet, saying the country had not demonstrated a "proper understanding" of the terror financing risks posed by Islamic State, al-Qaeda, JuD, FiF, LeT, JeM, the Haqqani Network, and persons affiliated with the Taliban. In the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack on February 14 in which at least 40 CRPF personnel died, the US, UK, France, Germany, Japan, Austrlia, and the EU have called for Pakistan to act against terror groups on its soil.

Pakistan bans Hafiz Saeed's JuD & FiF, India says it isn't quite convinced

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Sunday expressed disappointment at the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-cricket-captain-sarfraz-ahmed-gets-4-match-suspension-over-racist-remark-by-icc-193139">ICC's decision to suspend </a>its captain Sarfraz Ahmed for four matches for his racist comments on a South African player during an ODI match in Durban.&nbsp;

The PCB said that it thought the matter to have been resolved amicably after Sarfraz apologised to Proteas all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo.&nbsp;

Sarfraz was Sunday suspended for four matches by the International Cricket Council for his racist comments against Andile Phehlukwayo during the second one-dayer on January 22.

After the ICC announced its decision, the PCB issued a statement expressing surprise at the ban imposed of Sarfraz.

"The PCB notes the ICC decision on Sarfraz Ahmed with its utmost disappointment. PCB had anticipated that the matter had been resolved amicably between the two players and the two Boards following Sarfraz Ahmed's public apologies, which were accepted by the player, the Board and South Africa cricket team," the statement said.

"The PCB will be pursuing this matter at the ICC forums with the objective to bring reforms to the Code, promoting amicable resolutions to issues as opposed to penalties. Having said that, the PCB reiterates its zero-tolerance approach towards racist comments and behavior," it said.&nbsp;

The PCB also announced that Sarfraz would be returning home immediately from South Africa.

Sarfraz was heard on stump microphone of making racist remarks directed at Andile Phehlukwayo.

"Abey kaalay, teri ammi aaj kahan baitheen hain? Kya parhwa ke aya hai aaj tu? (Hey black (man), where is your mother sitting? What prayer did you get her to say for you today)?" Sarfraz was heard as saying.

Shoaib Malik will captain the team for the remaining ODIs and T20 internationals while Mohammad Rizwan has been included in the T20I side.

A PCB source said that the Board was unaware that Sarfraz would be suspended for four matches when it named him on Saturday to lead the team in the T20 series in South Africa, beginning on February 6.

"We were not aware what penalty the ICC would impose on him and when. There was some doubt if Sarfraz would face a ban after he had apologised publicly and in person to the South Africa players including Andile Phehlukwayo," a PCB official told PTI on Sunday.

Sarfraz, who leads Pakistan in all three formats, became the first Pakistani player to be penalized by the ICC under its anti-racism code.

The source also said that the ICC had considered an eight-match ban but took into account his prompt apology and the report of the match referee Ranjan Madugalle.

According to media reports, Pakistan's chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq and South African players Hashim Amla and Imran Tahir had played major roles in diffusing the situation.

Inzamam, who is in South Africa watching the one-day series with the World Cup in mind, used his friendship with Amla and Tahir to diffuse the situation.

The 'Daily Jang' newspaper reported that Inzamam had approached Amla and Tahir immediately after the incident happened and requested them to help out in containing the situation.

Inzamam and the PCB directed Sarfraz to immediately issue a public apology. Inzamam, Amla and Tahir arranged the meeting between Sarfraz and Phehlukwayo in which the Pakistan skipper extended his apologies and insisted it was unintentional.&nbsp;

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Sunday expressed disappointment at the ICC's decision to suspend its captain Sarfraz Ahmed for four matches for his racist comments on a South African player during an ODI match in Durban.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Sunday expressed disappointment at the ICC's decision to suspend its captain Sarfraz Ahmed for four matches for his racist comments on a South African player during an ODI match in Durban. The PCB said that it thought the matter to have been resolved amicably after Sarfraz apologised to Proteas all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo. Sarfraz was Sunday suspended for four matches by the International Cricket Council for his racist comments against Andile Phehlukwayo during the second one-dayer on January 22. After the ICC announced its decision, the PCB issued a statement expressing surprise at the ban imposed of Sarfraz. "The PCB notes the ICC decision on Sarfraz Ahmed with its utmost disappointment. PCB had anticipated that the matter had been resolved amicably between the two players and the two Boards following Sarfraz Ahmed's public apologies, which were accepted by the player, the Board and South Africa cricket team," the statement said. "The PCB will be pursuing this matter at the ICC forums with the objective to bring reforms to the Code, promoting amicable resolutions to issues as opposed to penalties. Having said that, the PCB reiterates its zero-tolerance approach towards racist comments and behavior," it said. The PCB also announced that Sarfraz would be returning home immediately from South Africa. Sarfraz was heard on stump microphone of making racist remarks directed at Andile Phehlukwayo. "Abey kaalay, teri ammi aaj kahan baitheen hain? Kya parhwa ke aya hai aaj tu? (Hey black (man), where is your mother sitting? What prayer did you get her to say for you today)?" Sarfraz was heard as saying. Shoaib Malik will captain the team for the remaining ODIs and T20 internationals while Mohammad Rizwan has been included in the T20I side. A PCB source said that the Board was unaware that Sarfraz would be suspended for four matches when it named him on Saturday to lead the team in the T20 series in South Africa, beginning on February 6. "We were not aware what penalty the ICC would impose on him and when. There was some doubt if Sarfraz would face a ban after he had apologised publicly and in person to the South Africa players including Andile Phehlukwayo," a PCB official told PTI on Sunday. Sarfraz, who leads Pakistan in all three formats, became the first Pakistani player to be penalized by the ICC under its anti-racism code. The source also said that the ICC had considered an eight-match ban but took into account his prompt apology and the report of the match referee Ranjan Madugalle. According to media reports, Pakistan's chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq and South African players Hashim Amla and Imran Tahir had played major roles in diffusing the situation. Inzamam, who is in South Africa watching the one-day series with the World Cup in mind, used his friendship with Amla and Tahir to diffuse the situation. The 'Daily Jang' newspaper reported that Inzamam had approached Amla and Tahir immediately after the incident happened and requested them to help out in containing the situation. Inzamam and the PCB directed Sarfraz to immediately issue a public apology. Inzamam, Amla and Tahir arranged the meeting between Sarfraz and Phehlukwayo in which the Pakistan skipper extended his apologies and insisted it was unintentional.

PCB says it's disappointed at ICC decision to suspend Sarfraz Ahmed for 4 matches

A Chelsea fan has been banned from football matches for three years after being ejected from their Premier League game against Brighton for shouting homophobic abuse.

The 20-year-old man pleaded guilty to the offence of using threatening, abusive or insulting words during Chelsea's 2-1 win at Brighton's Amex Stadium on December 16.

As a result, the fan has been banned and fined £965 ($1219).

A spokesperson for Brighton and Hove Albion said in a statement: "We would like to thank Sussex Police for their assistance in dealing with this unsavoury incident, and we are very pleased with the outcome.

"It underlines both their and our commitment to a zero tolerance policy on any form of abuse from those attending matches at the Amex. We would remind all fans that we will not tolerate any form of abusive behaviour at the stadium and will always take the strongest possible action."

The fan ban is the latest worrying incident involving Chelsea supporters this season.

A Chelsea fan was accused of shouting racist abuse at Manchester City star Raheem Sterling during the Blues' 2-0 win at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri admitted he was frustrated by the "stupid" people who were tarnishing his club's reputation after repeated complaints about fans singing an anti-semitic chant about Tottenham supporters.&nbsp;

A Chelsea fan has been banned from football matches for three years after being ejected from their Premier League game against Brighton for shouting homophobic abuse.

A Chelsea fan has been banned from football matches for three years after being ejected from their Premier League game against Brighton for shouting homophobic abuse. The 20-year-old man pleaded guilty to the offence of using threatening, abusive or insulting words during Chelsea's 2-1 win at Brighton's Amex Stadium on December 16. As a result, the fan has been banned and fined £965 ($1219). A spokesperson for Brighton and Hove Albion said in a statement: "We would like to thank Sussex Police for their assistance in dealing with this unsavoury incident, and we are very pleased with the outcome. "It underlines both their and our commitment to a zero tolerance policy on any form of abuse from those attending matches at the Amex. We would remind all fans that we will not tolerate any form of abusive behaviour at the stadium and will always take the strongest possible action." The fan ban is the latest worrying incident involving Chelsea supporters this season. A Chelsea fan was accused of shouting racist abuse at Manchester City star Raheem Sterling during the Blues' 2-0 win at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri admitted he was frustrated by the "stupid" people who were tarnishing his club's reputation after repeated complaints about fans singing an anti-semitic chant about Tottenham supporters.

Chelsea fan banned for homophobic abuse

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