Naxals in Bihar's Munger district torched four road construction vehicles on Thursday.

They also burned three other vehicles along with it.

The police authorities have confirmed that Naxals have abducted eight labourers in the process but freed four of them.

A search operation has been launched to track down the Naxals and the abductees.

Earlier on May 1 Naxalites had set ablaze as many as five vehicles engaged in road construction work in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district.

The police authorities have confirmed that Naxals have abducted eight labourers in the process but freed four of them

Naxals in Bihar's Munger district torched four road construction vehicles on Thursday. They also burned three other vehicles along with it. The police authorities have confirmed that Naxals have abducted eight labourers in the process but freed four of them. A search operation has been launched to track down the Naxals and the abductees. Earlier on May 1 Naxalites had set ablaze as many as five vehicles engaged in road construction work in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district.

Bihar: Naxals torch four road construction vehicles, abduct labours

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said today the southwest monsoon has set over Kerala, three days ahead of the normal date.

According to the Met Department, the rains were set to arrive on June 1.

Skymet, a private weather forecasting agency and a rival of the IMD, had said that the monsoon made its arrival in Kerala on Monday.&nbsp;

According to the IMD, if after May 10, 60 per cent of the available 14 stations - Minicoy, Amini, Thiruvananthapuram, Punalur, Kollam, Allapuzha, Kottayam, Kochi, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Thalassery, Kannur, Kudulu and Mangalore - report 2.5 mm or more rainfall for two consecutive days, the onset of monsoon over Kerala can be declared on the second day. This is one of the main parameters for declaring the arrival of monsoon.&nbsp;

All the necessary parameters were met following which the onset of monsoon over Kerala was announced, Mritunjay Mohapatra, Additional Director General, IMD said.&nbsp;

The IMD had predicted that India will experience third successful monsoon this year, even though some foreign forecasters have said uneven rain could affect crop production in the country.

The monsoon is considered normal if the average rainfall is between 96 to 104 per cent of long period average.&nbsp;

Anything less than 90 per cent of LPA is termed a "deficient' monsoon", and 90-96 per cent of the same is considered "below normal".

The monsoon is considered normal if the average rainfall is between 96 to 104 per cent of long period average.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said today the southwest monsoon has set over Kerala, three days ahead of the normal date. According to the Met Department, the rains were set to arrive on June 1. Skymet, a private weather forecasting agency and a rival of the IMD, had said that the monsoon made its arrival in Kerala on Monday. According to the IMD, if after May 10, 60 per cent of the available 14 stations - Minicoy, Amini, Thiruvananthapuram, Punalur, Kollam, Allapuzha, Kottayam, Kochi, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Thalassery, Kannur, Kudulu and Mangalore - report 2.5 mm or more rainfall for two consecutive days, the onset of monsoon over Kerala can be declared on the second day. This is one of the main parameters for declaring the arrival of monsoon. All the necessary parameters were met following which the onset of monsoon over Kerala was announced, Mritunjay Mohapatra, Additional Director General, IMD said. The IMD had predicted that India will experience third successful monsoon this year, even though some foreign forecasters have said uneven rain could affect crop production in the country. The monsoon is considered normal if the average rainfall is between 96 to 104 per cent of long period average. Anything less than 90 per cent of LPA is termed a "deficient' monsoon", and 90-96 per cent of the same is considered "below normal".

Monsoon has arrived in Kerala, 3 days ahead of schedule: IMD

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today said the quota for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) could rise after the 2021 Census.

Kumar said this at Bagaha in West Champaran district, where he was attending a function organised by the members of the "Tharu" tribe.

"After the 2021 Census, the quota for SCs and STs may be hiked, in keeping with the rise in their population. This would provide greater opportunities to these groups," the JD(U) chief said.

While Kumar's remark drew praise from the leaders of his party and was backed by the JD-U's coalition partner BJP, the opposition RJD-Congress combine dismissed it as a political gimmick and challenged the chief minister to speak out in favour of making the data of the caste-based census public.

"During my tours of the state, I often face people from the depressed classes, who say that the existing quota is not sufficient. I can only say that a hike in it is not in the state government's hands, though the next census may pave the way for the same," Kumar said.

Reacting to the chief minister's statement, RJD spokesman Mrityunjay Tiwari alleged that Kumar was "playing a trick" to win back the Dalits, whom he had "angered by siding with the BJP".

"If he (Kumar) is really serious about the SCs and STs, why does he not put pressure on the BJP, which is his ally and also in power at the Centre, to make public the report of the caste-based census, a demand that RJD supremo Lalu Prasad has been raising for long," he said.

Dismissing the opposition's criticisms, JD(U) spokesman and MLC Neeraj Kumar said, "The opposition is frustrated over its inability to woo the Dalits, who stand strongly behind Nitish Kumar. The number of schemes our government has been running for the SCs and STs does not have a parallel."

While Kumar's remark drew praise from the leaders of his party and was backed by the JD-U's coalition partner BJP, the opposition RJD-Congress combine dismissed it

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today said the quota for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) could rise after the 2021 Census. Kumar said this at Bagaha in West Champaran district, where he was attending a function organised by the members of the "Tharu" tribe. "After the 2021 Census, the quota for SCs and STs may be hiked, in keeping with the rise in their population. This would provide greater opportunities to these groups," the JD(U) chief said. While Kumar's remark drew praise from the leaders of his party and was backed by the JD-U's coalition partner BJP, the opposition RJD-Congress combine dismissed it as a political gimmick and challenged the chief minister to speak out in favour of making the data of the caste-based census public. "During my tours of the state, I often face people from the depressed classes, who say that the existing quota is not sufficient. I can only say that a hike in it is not in the state government's hands, though the next census may pave the way for the same," Kumar said. Reacting to the chief minister's statement, RJD spokesman Mrityunjay Tiwari alleged that Kumar was "playing a trick" to win back the Dalits, whom he had "angered by siding with the BJP". "If he (Kumar) is really serious about the SCs and STs, why does he not put pressure on the BJP, which is his ally and also in power at the Centre, to make public the report of the caste-based census, a demand that RJD supremo Lalu Prasad has been raising for long," he said. Dismissing the opposition's criticisms, JD(U) spokesman and MLC Neeraj Kumar said, "The opposition is frustrated over its inability to woo the Dalits, who stand strongly behind Nitish Kumar. The number of schemes our government has been running for the SCs and STs does not have a parallel."

Quota for SCs, STs may increase after 2021 Census: Nitish Kumar

After <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rjd-alliance-parties-meet-bihar-governor-submit-letter-proving-majority-137916">RJD leader&nbspTejashwi Yadav</a> met with the Bihar governor Satyapal Malik demanding an invitation from him to form the government in the state, the leader also urged all the opposition parties to come together and collectively oppose the BJP led central government.

Calling the BJP government a "dictatorship" he compared the party with Britishers.

He said, " All the opposition parties need to come together and raise voice against what is being done by BJP across India. We need to oppose their dictatorship. If something is not done now, then soon there will be no Constitution. The Britishers came to India and treated us like slaves. Now BJP is doing the same".

"The BJP leaders will not follow any of the Consitution rules as they feel Prime Minister Narendra Modi is bigger than Constitution."If the Consitution is same for all, then why Karnataka is different from what happened in Bihar?" he asked.

The former deputy chief minister of Bihar was addressing ' Samvidhan Bachao Andolan' rally in Patna on Friday.

The opposition's move has come after the BJP staked claim of the Karnataka state despite not having the&nbspmajority mark required to form the government.

He said, 'All the opposition parties need to come together and raise voice against what is being done by BJP across India. We need to oppose their dictatorship'

After RJD leader&nbspTejashwi Yadav met with the Bihar governor Satyapal Malik demanding an invitation from him to form the government in the state, the leader also urged all the opposition parties to come together and collectively oppose the BJP led central government. Calling the BJP government a "dictatorship" he compared the party with Britishers. He said, " All the opposition parties need to come together and raise voice against what is being done by BJP across India. We need to oppose their dictatorship. If something is not done now, then soon there will be no Constitution. The Britishers came to India and treated us like slaves. Now BJP is doing the same". "The BJP leaders will not follow any of the Consitution rules as they feel Prime Minister Narendra Modi is bigger than Constitution."If the Consitution is same for all, then why Karnataka is different from what happened in Bihar?" he asked. The former deputy chief minister of Bihar was addressing ' Samvidhan Bachao Andolan' rally in Patna on Friday. The opposition's move has come after the BJP staked claim of the Karnataka state despite not having the&nbspmajority mark required to form the government.

Tejashwi Yadav urges opposition to join together against BJP

The ruling BJP described as a "stunt" the Congress decision to stake claim to form the government in Goa and said the opposition party's "dream" to acquire power in the coastal state will never be fulfilled.

&nbsp;Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-congress-to-stake-claim-to-form-government-after-karnataka-governors-invite-to-bjp--137692">Now, Goa Congress, RJD in Bihar to stake claim to form </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-congress-to-stake-claim-to-form-government-after-karnataka-governors-invite-to-bjp--137692">government</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-congress-to-stake-claim-to-form-government-after-karnataka-governors-invite-to-bjp--137692"> after Karnataka Governor's invite to BJP</a>

Seeking adoption of the Karnataka example in Goa, the Congress decided to stake claim to form government in the coastal state, where it had emerged as the single largest party in the Assembly polls held last year.

On Thursday Congress Legislature Party chief Chandrakant Kavlekar said, "the party will stake claim tomorrow by submitting to Governor Mridula Sinha a formal letter containing signatures of all the 16 MLAs that the party has now".

"The Congress had a chance to form the government after 2017 assembly results. But their legislators and party's national leaders were busy enjoying stay at a hotel," BJP state unit president Vinay Tendulkar said.

He said the Congress should have staked their claim to form government one and half year back after the outcome of the polls.

"Why are they doing it now?" he said.

Tendulkar said the Congress was "dreaming: about forming the government in the coastal state, but their "dream" will not be fulfilled.

"The BJP had staked the claim to form government successfully (in 2017), as the party had the majority with more than 21 (MLAs) supporting it," he said, adding that the Congress move was just a "stunt".

Meanwhile, the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP), one of the constituents of the BJP-led NDA government, dared the Congress to parade all the 16 MLAs of the party in public before meeting the governor.

MGP chief Dipak Dhavalikar said the Congress had already missed the bus and was trying in vain to gain power.

"Do they have 16 MLAs with them? They should parade them before people before going to meet the governor," he said.

Dhavlikar said it would be a different matter altogether if the Congress had to stake claim for power in case the incumbent government runs into minority.

The BJP-led government in Goa is headed by Manohar Parrikar, who is currently undergoing treatment in the US for a pancreatic ailment.

In the Assembly elections held in February last year, the Congress had bagged 17 seats, becoming the single largest party in the 40-member House but fell short of the majority mark by four seats.

The BJP, which had bagged 13 seats, firmed up an alliance with the Goa Forward Party (GFP) and the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP), both of which had secured three seats each, and also took the support of three Independents.

Subsequently, the Goa governor had invited the BJP-led coalition to form the government.

The Congress currently has 16 members in the Goa Assembly as one of its legislators Vishwajeet Rane joined the BJP last year. Rane later won the bypoll from Valpoi Assembly constituency on a BJP ticket.

The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party with 104 seats in the Karnataka Assembly, was invited by the governor despite the JD(S)-Congress combine staking claim, citing the support of 117 MLAs.

Seeking adoption of the Karnataka example in Goa, the Congress decided to stake claim to form government in the coastal state, where it had emerged as the single largest party in the Assembly polls held last year

The ruling BJP described as a "stunt" the Congress decision to stake claim to form the government in Goa and said the opposition party's "dream" to acquire power in the coastal state will never be fulfilled. Also read: Now, Goa Congress, RJD in Bihar to stake claim to form government after Karnataka Governor's invite to BJP Seeking adoption of the Karnataka example in Goa, the Congress decided to stake claim to form government in the coastal state, where it had emerged as the single largest party in the Assembly polls held last year. On Thursday Congress Legislature Party chief Chandrakant Kavlekar said, "the party will stake claim tomorrow by submitting to Governor Mridula Sinha a formal letter containing signatures of all the 16 MLAs that the party has now". "The Congress had a chance to form the government after 2017 assembly results. But their legislators and party's national leaders were busy enjoying stay at a hotel," BJP state unit president Vinay Tendulkar said. He said the Congress should have staked their claim to form government one and half year back after the outcome of the polls. "Why are they doing it now?" he said. Tendulkar said the Congress was "dreaming: about forming the government in the coastal state, but their "dream" will not be fulfilled. "The BJP had staked the claim to form government successfully (in 2017), as the party had the majority with more than 21 (MLAs) supporting it," he said, adding that the Congress move was just a "stunt". Meanwhile, the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP), one of the constituents of the BJP-led NDA government, dared the Congress to parade all the 16 MLAs of the party in public before meeting the governor. MGP chief Dipak Dhavalikar said the Congress had already missed the bus and was trying in vain to gain power. "Do they have 16 MLAs with them? They should parade them before people before going to meet the governor," he said. Dhavlikar said it would be a different matter altogether if the Congress had to stake claim for power in case the incumbent government runs into minority. The BJP-led government in Goa is headed by Manohar Parrikar, who is currently undergoing treatment in the US for a pancreatic ailment. In the Assembly elections held in February last year, the Congress had bagged 17 seats, becoming the single largest party in the 40-member House but fell short of the majority mark by four seats. The BJP, which had bagged 13 seats, firmed up an alliance with the Goa Forward Party (GFP) and the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP), both of which had secured three seats each, and also took the support of three Independents. Subsequently, the Goa governor had invited the BJP-led coalition to form the government. The Congress currently has 16 members in the Goa Assembly as one of its legislators Vishwajeet Rane joined the BJP last year. Rane later won the bypoll from Valpoi Assembly constituency on a BJP ticket. The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party with 104 seats in the Karnataka Assembly, was invited by the governor despite the JD(S)-Congress combine staking claim, citing the support of 117 MLAs.

Congress decision to stake claim to form govt in Goa a stunt: BJP

Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tejashwi Yadav and other alliance leaders met with the Bihar Governor Satyapal Malik today&nbspto prove their majority in&nbspthe state assembly.&nbsp

The parties handed over letters to the governor showing RJD as the single largest party in the assembly.&nbsp

The meeting was organised&nbspto demand&nbspan invitation from the governor for forming the&nbspgovernment in the state.&nbsp

The parties which joined the RJD in the meeting included Congress and CPI (ML).

RJD's Tejashwi Yadav had said yesterday that their party will hold a one-day protest against the ''murder of democracy''. He also said he will request Bihar Governor to dissolve the state government and like Karnataka invite the single largest party which in Bihar is RJD. &nbsp

A similar meeting was organised by the Congress MLAs in Goa where they met the Goa governor and handed over a memorandum to her stating their majority.

The opposition's move has come after the BJP staked claim of the Karnataka state after emerging as the single largest party,&nbspless than the majority mark.&nbsp

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RJD and other alliance parties-Congress and CPI(ML) hand over letters to Governor Satyapal Malik stating that RJD is the single largest party hence should be invited to form Government <a href="https://t.co/NdTSuvBsB0">pic.twitter.com/NdTSuvBsB0</a>
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&nbsp

The meeting was organised to demand an invitation from the governor for forming the government in the state

Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tejashwi Yadav and other alliance leaders met with the Bihar Governor Satyapal Malik today&nbspto prove their majority in&nbspthe state assembly. The parties handed over letters to the governor showing RJD as the single largest party in the assembly. The meeting was organised&nbspto demand&nbspan invitation from the governor for forming the&nbspgovernment in the state. The parties which joined the RJD in the meeting included Congress and CPI (ML). RJD's Tejashwi Yadav had said yesterday that their party will hold a one-day protest against the ''murder of democracy''. He also said he will request Bihar Governor to dissolve the state government and like Karnataka invite the single largest party which in Bihar is RJD. A similar meeting was organised by the Congress MLAs in Goa where they met the Goa governor and handed over a memorandum to her stating their majority. The opposition's move has come after the BJP staked claim of the Karnataka state after emerging as the single largest party,&nbspless than the majority mark. RJD and other alliance parties-Congress and CPI(ML) hand over letters to Governor Satyapal Malik stating that RJD is the single largest party hence should be invited to form Government pic.twitter.com/NdTSuvBsB0 — ANI (@ANI) May 18, 2018 × Patna: Tejashwi Yadav and other alliance leaders met Bihar Governor Satyapal Malik, hand over letters stating that RJD is the single largest party and hence should be invited to form Government pic.twitter.com/K24yHxu3nH — ANI (@ANI) May 18, 2018 ×

RJD, alliance parties meet Bihar governor, submit letter proving majority

Bhaskar Kalita, the Officer in Charge of Bordumsa Police Station in eastern Assam's Tinsukia district, lost his life during an intense gun battle between United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent ULFA-(I) cadres and the security forces on Friday evening.

Reportedly, two persons, including an ULFA-I member, were killed in the exchange of fire between the police and the militant outfit.

Earlier, an intense gunfight took place between a combined team of Army, Police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawans and suspected cadres of ULFA-I at Kujipathar area of Bordumsa.

According to sources, the joint team of security forces had intel about the presence of ULFA-I cadres in the area and launched an operation leading to a massive firefight.

Earlier, one ULFA terrorist was arrested by security forces in Charaideo, 2 NQ- 71 series pistols, 2 magazines and 78 live cartridges were recovered from him.

Reportedly, two persons, including an ULFA-I member, were killed in the exchange of fire between the police and the militant outfit

Bhaskar Kalita, the Officer in Charge of Bordumsa Police Station in eastern Assam's Tinsukia district, lost his life during an intense gun battle between United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent ULFA-(I) cadres and the security forces on Friday evening. Reportedly, two persons, including an ULFA-I member, were killed in the exchange of fire between the police and the militant outfit. Earlier, an intense gunfight took place between a combined team of Army, Police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawans and suspected cadres of ULFA-I at Kujipathar area of Bordumsa. According to sources, the joint team of security forces had intel about the presence of ULFA-I cadres in the area and launched an operation leading to a massive firefight. Earlier, one ULFA terrorist was arrested by security forces in Charaideo, 2 NQ- 71 series pistols, 2 magazines and 78 live cartridges were recovered from him.

Pakistan girl becomes ambassador for 'Swachh Jamui Swasth Jamui'

At least 27 people died when a bus caught fire after it overturned in Bihar's Motihari district.&nbsp;

The bus reportedly fell into a ditch and caught fire.

The accident occurred under the Kotwa police station area, over 75 km from the state capital.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Pratyay Amrit, Principal Secretary - Disaster Management Department, said that most of the charred bodies were still inside the bus.

According to police, an air-conditioned bus from Muzaffarpur to Delhi met with the accident after the driver lost control over it.

Soon after the bus overturned, it caught fire and the seven persons were either charred or died due to suffocation from smoke inside the vehicle.

Police officials said the passengers who managed to come out of the bus had been admitted to a hospital.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced a compensation of Rs 4 lakh each to the families of the deceased.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpotVisuals?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpotVisuals</a>: Bihar: 12 people dead due to fire in a bus after it overturned, in Motihari Death toll expected to rise, more details awaited. <a href="https://t.co/SNyMYUYmih">pic.twitter.com/SNyMYUYmih</a>
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&nbsp;

At least 27 people died when a bus caught fire after it overturned in Bihar's Motihari district. The bus reportedly fell into a ditch and caught fire. The accident occurred under the Kotwa police station area, over 75 km from the state capital. Pratyay Amrit, Principal Secretary - Disaster Management Department, said that most of the charred bodies were still inside the bus. According to police, an air-conditioned bus from Muzaffarpur to Delhi met with the accident after the driver lost control over it. Soon after the bus overturned, it caught fire and the seven persons were either charred or died due to suffocation from smoke inside the vehicle. Police officials said the passengers who managed to come out of the bus had been admitted to a hospital. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced a compensation of Rs 4 lakh each to the families of the deceased. #SpotVisuals: Bihar: 12 people dead due to fire in a bus after it overturned, in Motihari Death toll expected to rise, more details awaited. pic.twitter.com/SNyMYUYmih — ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2018 ×

27 killed after bus overturns, catches fire in Bihar's Motihari

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/many-killed-as-bus-catches-fire-in-bihars-motihari-134410">27 killed after bus overturns, catches fire in Bihar's Motihari</a>

At least 27 people died afer a bus overturned and caught fire in Bihar's Motihari district.&nbsp;

The bus reportedly fell into a ditch, after which it caught fire.&nbsp;

The government has announced compensation of Rs 4 lakh for the families of each of the victims.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-national-film-awards-2018-68-winners-skip-ceremony-janhvi-kapoor-a-r-rahman-attend-134403">National Film Awards: 68 winners skip ceremony because President Kovind does not present all awards</a>

Sixty-eight winners of the National Film Awards skipped the awards ceremony this afternoon in Delhi.&nbsp;

The winners were miffed that President Ram Nath Kovind was handing out only 11 of the National Awards, and that the rest would be handed out by Information and Broadcasting Minister Smriti Irani.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/dust-storm-kills-close-to-100-in-uttar-pradesh-rajasthan-134406">Dust storm kills close to 100 in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan</a>

A severe dust storm followed by thunder showers hit parts of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan overnight, killing nearly 100 people and leaving a trail of destruction.

Houses collapsed and trees and poles were uprooted in the storm that also led to power outages.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-money-for-his-lawyer-cohen-not-from-the-campaign-134417">Porn star</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-money-for-his-lawyer-cohen-not-from-the-campaign-134417"> Stormy Daniels was not paid with campaign money: Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump said on Thursday his lawyer Michael Cohen did not use presidential campaign funds to pay Stormy Daniels as part of a contract he said was aimed at stopping the adult-film star from making "false and extortionist accusations" about an affair.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-45-youth-including-mba-phd-scholar-join-terrorist-ranks-in-2018-134419">Kashmir: 45 youths including MBA, PhD scholar join terrorist ranks in 2018</a>

At least 45 youths from the Kashmir Valley, including an MBA graduate and a PhD scholar, have joined militancy this year till mid-April, according to officials. The unusual surge in numbers has taken the security establishment by surprise.

27 killed after bus overturns, catches fire in Bihar's Motihari At least 27 people died afer a bus overturned and caught fire in Bihar's Motihari district. The bus reportedly fell into a ditch, after which it caught fire. The government has announced compensation of Rs 4 lakh for the families of each of the victims. National Film Awards: 68 winners skip ceremony because President Kovind does not present all awards Sixty-eight winners of the National Film Awards skipped the awards ceremony this afternoon in Delhi. The winners were miffed that President Ram Nath Kovind was handing out only 11 of the National Awards, and that the rest would be handed out by Information and Broadcasting Minister Smriti Irani. Dust storm kills close to 100 in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan A severe dust storm followed by thunder showers hit parts of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan overnight, killing nearly 100 people and leaving a trail of destruction. Houses collapsed and trees and poles were uprooted in the storm that also led to power outages. Porn star Stormy Daniels was not paid with campaign money: Trump US President Donald Trump said on Thursday his lawyer Michael Cohen did not use presidential campaign funds to pay Stormy Daniels as part of a contract he said was aimed at stopping the adult-film star from making "false and extortionist accusations" about an affair. Kashmir: 45 youths including MBA, PhD scholar join terrorist ranks in 2018 At least 45 youths from the Kashmir Valley, including an MBA graduate and a PhD scholar, have joined militancy this year till mid-April, according to officials. The unusual surge in numbers has taken the security establishment by surprise.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Katihar Superintendent of Police (SP) Siddharth Mohan Jain was caught shooting rounds of celebratory firing during his farewell ceremony in Bihar’s Katihar.&nbsp;

Jain, along with other police officials, was enjoying the farewell celebration.&nbsp;

The incident, which was caught on camera shows both DM and SP holding the mike and singing songs, thereafter ‘drunk on power’ SP can be seen taking out a gun from his pocket and firing celebratory shots.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Bihar: Celebratory firing by Katihar Superintendent of Police(SP) Siddharth Mohan Jain during his farewell ceremony (1.5.18) <a href="https://t.co/avJKoF2gsy">pic.twitter.com/avJKoF2gsy</a>
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No case has been registered against the SP for misusing the weapon which is issued to them for protecting the society.

In a video that surfaced, SP Jain and Mishra were seen happily enjoying their farewell party. The latter was singing a song from the 1975 hit Sholay film - 'Ye Dosti Hum Nahi Todenge'.

It was then the Katihar SP started firing bullets in the sky in a jubilant mood. He kept on firing till the magazine of the pistol was completely empty.

Jain, along with other police officials, was enjoying the farewell celebration.

Katihar Superintendent of Police (SP) Siddharth Mohan Jain was caught shooting rounds of celebratory firing during his farewell ceremony in Bihar’s Katihar. Jain, along with other police officials, was enjoying the farewell celebration. The incident, which was caught on camera shows both DM and SP holding the mike and singing songs, thereafter ‘drunk on power’ SP can be seen taking out a gun from his pocket and firing celebratory shots. #WATCH Bihar: Celebratory firing by Katihar Superintendent of Police(SP) Siddharth Mohan Jain during his farewell ceremony (1.5.18) pic.twitter.com/avJKoF2gsy — ANI (@ANI) May 2, 2018 × No case has been registered against the SP for misusing the weapon which is issued to them for protecting the society. In a video that surfaced, SP Jain and Mishra were seen happily enjoying their farewell party. The latter was singing a song from the 1975 hit Sholay film - 'Ye Dosti Hum Nahi Todenge'. It was then the Katihar SP started firing bullets in the sky in a jubilant mood. He kept on firing till the magazine of the pistol was completely empty.

Caught on camera: Bihar IPS officer fires revolver at farewell ceremony

Four people have been detained for their alleged involvement in the molestation of a minor girl in Jehanabad.

Earlier, an FIR was lodged against unidentified persons after videos showing a minor girl being molested by a group of youths went viral on Saturday.

While some reports said that the video was filmed by the accused, others claimed&nbsp;it was captured by locals.&nbsp;

The video shows the girl being hounded and molested by a group of youths. The incident took place on Saturday. &nbsp;

Two Special Investigation Teams (SIT) were also constituted to investigate the incident, according to news agency ANI.&nbsp;

A manhunt has been launched to arrest others involved in the crime.

The SIT also seized a motorbike seen in the video.

The video shows the girl being hounded and molested by a group of youths in broad daylight.

Four people have been detained for their alleged involvement in the molestation of a minor girl in Jehanabad. Earlier, an FIR was lodged against unidentified persons after videos showing a minor girl being molested by a group of youths went viral on Saturday. While some reports said that the video was filmed by the accused, others claimed it was captured by locals. The video shows the girl being hounded and molested by a group of youths. The incident took place on Saturday. Two Special Investigation Teams (SIT) were also constituted to investigate the incident, according to news agency ANI. A manhunt has been launched to arrest others involved in the crime. The SIT also seized a motorbike seen in the video.

Bihar: Four held for molesting, stripping minor in broad daylight, video goes viral

At least eight people died in Bihar’s Bhagalpur district after the boat they were travelling in capsized in Kosi river on Sunday, news agency ANI reported.

“Seven people were rescued and sent to Sadar Hospital for treatment,” an official said.

At least eight people died in Bihar’s Bhagalpur district after the boat they were travelling in capsized in Kosi river on Sunday, news agency ANI reported. “Seven people were rescued and sent to Sadar Hospital for treatment,” an official said.

8 feared dead as boat capsizes in Kosi river in Bihar's Bhagalpur

NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant on Tuesday said that the states in India's eastern region like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan are keeping India backward, especially on social indicators.

Speaking at the first Khan Abdul Gaffar Khan Memorial Lecture at Jamia Millia Islamia University, Kant said, "Eastern part of India particularly states like Bihar, UP, Chattisgarh, MP, and Rajasthan are keeping India backward especially on social indicators. While we have improved on ease of doing business, we have remained backward on human development index."Kant further said that India is still 131 out of 188 countries in the Human Development Index (HDI).

Reacting to 'Challenges of Transforming India' he said that the part of southern and western India was doing well and growing speedily."And when the country's HDI has to improve and we have to focus on these social indicators. We are working on these things through Aspirational Districts Programme," he added.

Stressing upon the significance of sustainable growth, the NITI Aayog CEO said, "Education and health are vital and in these two areas India is lagging behind. Our learning outcomes are poor - a class 5 student is not able to do class 2 subtractions. Class 5 student is not able to read his mother tongue. Infant mortality rates are very high. Unless we improve on these aspects, it will be difficult to grow in a consistent way."

He also encouraged women to participate in decision-making process. He said, "There must be a conscious effort to frame policies to give women opportunities."

The other states he included in his list were Chattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan

NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant on Tuesday said that the states in India's eastern region like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan are keeping India backward, especially on social indicators. Speaking at the first Khan Abdul Gaffar Khan Memorial Lecture at Jamia Millia Islamia University, Kant said, "Eastern part of India particularly states like Bihar, UP, Chattisgarh, MP, and Rajasthan are keeping India backward especially on social indicators. While we have improved on ease of doing business, we have remained backward on human development index."Kant further said that India is still 131 out of 188 countries in the Human Development Index (HDI). Reacting to 'Challenges of Transforming India' he said that the part of southern and western India was doing well and growing speedily."And when the country's HDI has to improve and we have to focus on these social indicators. We are working on these things through Aspirational Districts Programme," he added. Stressing upon the significance of sustainable growth, the NITI Aayog CEO said, "Education and health are vital and in these two areas India is lagging behind. Our learning outcomes are poor - a class 5 student is not able to do class 2 subtractions. Class 5 student is not able to read his mother tongue. Infant mortality rates are very high. Unless we improve on these aspects, it will be difficult to grow in a consistent way." He also encouraged women to participate in decision-making process. He said, "There must be a conscious effort to frame policies to give women opportunities."

States like UP, Bihar holding India back: NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant

Bihar opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav on Tuesday slammed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/states-like-up-bihar-holding-india-back-niti-aayog-ceo-amitabh-kant-132435">NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant</a>’s statement blaming the state for India’s backwardness, saying the remark has exposed the mindset of “babus” in the Modi-led government.

"Bihar and Bihari`s pay equal taxes, contribute equally or more to governance and nation-building. Bihar gave 33 MPs to NDA, seven Union Ministers from Bihar, both State and Centre governments are of same party and alliance. But still, these Babus say Bihar is backward..." the former Deputy Chief Minister tweeted.

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Bihar & Bihari’s pay equal taxes, contribute equally or more in governance & Nation building. Bihar gave 33 MPs to NDA, 7 Union Ministers r frm Bihar, both State & Centre govts are of same party nd alliance But still these Babu’s says Bihar is backward.BJP ruling state for 10yrs <a href="https://t.co/Ii9pxjt4Xt">https://t.co/Ii9pxjt4Xt</a>
— Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) <a href="https://twitter.com/yadavtejashwi/status/988632682597900288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"Modi has failed to grant special category status or special packages promised by him. Four years have passed, but nothing has happened so far, except 'jumlas' (hollow words)," he said.

While speaking at the first Khan Abdul Gaffar Khan Memorial Lecture at Jamia Millia Islamia University, NITI Aayog Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Amitabh Kant said, "India was backward because of the eastern states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, especially on social indicators."

Kant said that the states in India's southern and western region were growing rapidly, but those like Bihar, UP and Chattisgarh were keeping the country backwards.

"Modi has failed to grant special category status or special packages promised by him," he said.

Bihar opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav on Tuesday slammed NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant’s statement blaming the state for India’s backwardness, saying the remark has exposed the mindset of “babus” in the Modi-led government. "Bihar and Bihari`s pay equal taxes, contribute equally or more to governance and nation-building. Bihar gave 33 MPs to NDA, seven Union Ministers from Bihar, both State and Centre governments are of same party and alliance. But still, these Babus say Bihar is backward..." the former Deputy Chief Minister tweeted. Bihar & Bihari’s pay equal taxes, contribute equally or more in governance & Nation building. Bihar gave 33 MPs to NDA, 7 Union Ministers r frm Bihar, both State & Centre govts are of same party nd alliance But still these Babu’s says Bihar is backward.BJP ruling state for 10yrs https://t.co/Ii9pxjt4Xt — Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) April 24, 2018 × "Modi has failed to grant special category status or special packages promised by him. Four years have passed, but nothing has happened so far, except 'jumlas' (hollow words)," he said. While speaking at the first Khan Abdul Gaffar Khan Memorial Lecture at Jamia Millia Islamia University, NITI Aayog Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Amitabh Kant said, "India was backward because of the eastern states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, especially on social indicators." Kant said that the states in India's southern and western region were growing rapidly, but those like Bihar, UP and Chattisgarh were keeping the country backwards.

Tejashwi replies to NITI Aayog CEO for blaming Bihar for India's backwardness

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today asserted that Naxalism will be "wiped out" from the country as he lauded the efforts of the Nitish Kumar government in tackling the menace in Bihar.

Addressing an event organised by the state party unit on the eve of Babu Veer Kuer Singh's 160th Viyotsav Diwas in Patna, he said the number of incidents related to the rebels has come down since 2013.&nbsp 
Also, the number of deaths due to Naxal attacks has come down to one third, he said.&nbsp

"Naxalite's confidence is shattered...Naxalism will be wiped out from the country," Singh said at the programme attended by a galaxy of BJP leaders and Union ministers.

"These Naxalites thrive at the cost of poor people...I would like to tell the poor of the country as well as those of Bihar that the Naxal leaders want them to remain poor, whereas their own children study in prominent colleges and universities, and some of them even study abroad. The Naxalite leaders have become crorepatis," he said.

Thirteen Naxals were on Sunday gunned down in an encounter with security forces at Etapalli's Boriya forest area in Gadchiroli district in Maharashtra.

A huge cache of arms and ammunition was also recovered and the search operation is still on.

The home minister asked the people to be on guard against the Naxalites' designs to win their sympathies.

Earlier, addressing a function to inaugurate the ITBP's 6th battalion's buildings at Saran, the headquarter town of Chapra district, the Union minister lauded the efforts of the Nitish Kumar government in tackling Naxalism.

"I would like to mention the situation of Naxalism in Bihar. The number of Naxal incidents has come down to less than half here since 2013 and the deaths to one-third," Singh said.

"I would like to thank CM Nitish Kumar, deputy CM Sushil Modi, the police and para military forces for this (achievement)," he said.&nbsp 
The senior BJP leader also appreciated the Bihar government for posting a resounding 10 per cent plus growth rate.

"Bihar's growth rate has increased tremendously during the NDA government. The state has clocked a growth rate of 10.3 per cent for the first time when the national growth stands at 7.3 per cent. Both Nitish Kumar and Sushil Modi deserve praise for this," he said.&nbsp

Singh termed as "historic" the enforcement of complete prohibition in the state and said the decision had been taken for the better future of the state's people.

"As a home minister of the country, I can say that the crime rate has gone down in Bihar after the enforcement of prohibition," he said, adding that even Prime Minister Narendra Modi had appreciated the same during the recent centenary celebrations of Champaran satyagraha.&nbsp&nbsp &nbsp

The Bihar chief minister, deputy chief minister Sushil Kumar Modi and BJP MPs Janardan Singh Sigriwal and Rajiv Pratap Rudy were among those present at the programme.

(With inputs from PTI)

Addressing an event organised by the state party unit on the eve of Babu Veer Kuer Singh's 160th Viyotsav Diwas in Patna, he said the number of incidents related to the rebels has come down since 2013

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today asserted that Naxalism will be "wiped out" from the country as he lauded the efforts of the Nitish Kumar government in tackling the menace in Bihar. Addressing an event organised by the state party unit on the eve of Babu Veer Kuer Singh's 160th Viyotsav Diwas in Patna, he said the number of incidents related to the rebels has come down since 2013. Also, the number of deaths due to Naxal attacks has come down to one third, he said. "Naxalite's confidence is shattered...Naxalism will be wiped out from the country," Singh said at the programme attended by a galaxy of BJP leaders and Union ministers. "These Naxalites thrive at the cost of poor people...I would like to tell the poor of the country as well as those of Bihar that the Naxal leaders want them to remain poor, whereas their own children study in prominent colleges and universities, and some of them even study abroad. The Naxalite leaders have become crorepatis," he said. Thirteen Naxals were on Sunday gunned down in an encounter with security forces at Etapalli's Boriya forest area in Gadchiroli district in Maharashtra. A huge cache of arms and ammunition was also recovered and the search operation is still on. The home minister asked the people to be on guard against the Naxalites' designs to win their sympathies. Earlier, addressing a function to inaugurate the ITBP's 6th battalion's buildings at Saran, the headquarter town of Chapra district, the Union minister lauded the efforts of the Nitish Kumar government in tackling Naxalism. "I would like to mention the situation of Naxalism in Bihar. The number of Naxal incidents has come down to less than half here since 2013 and the deaths to one-third," Singh said. "I would like to thank CM Nitish Kumar, deputy CM Sushil Modi, the police and para military forces for this (achievement)," he said. The senior BJP leader also appreciated the Bihar government for posting a resounding 10 per cent plus growth rate. "Bihar's growth rate has increased tremendously during the NDA government. The state has clocked a growth rate of 10.3 per cent for the first time when the national growth stands at 7.3 per cent. Both Nitish Kumar and Sushil Modi deserve praise for this," he said. Singh termed as "historic" the enforcement of complete prohibition in the state and said the decision had been taken for the better future of the state's people. "As a home minister of the country, I can say that the crime rate has gone down in Bihar after the enforcement of prohibition," he said, adding that even Prime Minister Narendra Modi had appreciated the same during the recent centenary celebrations of Champaran satyagraha. The Bihar chief minister, deputy chief minister Sushil Kumar Modi and BJP MPs Janardan Singh Sigriwal and Rajiv Pratap Rudy were among those present at the programme. (With inputs from PTI)

Naxalism will be wiped out from the country: Rajnath Singh

Farmers in Bihar's Rohtas on Sunday dumped tomatoes on roads and ran vehicles over them in a bid to protest over insufficient profits from the produce.&nbsp

Farmers stated that they hardly earn the profit and did not get fair and adequate prices from the produced tomatoes.&nbsp

The farmers said that they are not even getting wholesale rate of Rs&nbsp1 per kilogram for tomatoes and whereas the cost to bring tomatoes to the market comes at Rs&nbsp2 per kilogram.

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Rohtas based farmers threw away tomatoes on road & ran a vehicle over them alleging they didn't get fair and adequate prices for the product in the market said, 'we haven't even met our expenses & that's why we are protesting on road' <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bihar?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bihar</a> <a href="https://t.co/nYCqwyyUxJ">pic.twitter.com/nYCqwyyUxJ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/988018358040891392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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A farmer said, "I spent Rs. 50000 per acre to produce tomatoes and now I am not even getting Rs. 500 for tomatoes produced in an acre. We don't have any other option left than destroying tomatoes here only."

To register their protest, the farmers spilled tomatoes on road near Post Office square and ran their tractor trolleys over it. Some of them were seen crushing tomatoes with their feet.

The farmers said that they are not even getting wholesale rate of Rs 1 per kilogram for tomatoes and whereas the cost to bring tomatoes to the market comes at Rs 2 per kilogram

Farmers in Bihar's Rohtas on Sunday dumped tomatoes on roads and ran vehicles over them in a bid to protest over insufficient profits from the produce. Farmers stated that they hardly earn the profit and did not get fair and adequate prices from the produced tomatoes. The farmers said that they are not even getting wholesale rate of Rs&nbsp1 per kilogram for tomatoes and whereas the cost to bring tomatoes to the market comes at Rs&nbsp2 per kilogram. Rohtas based farmers threw away tomatoes on road & ran a vehicle over them alleging they didn't get fair and adequate prices for the product in the market said, 'we haven't even met our expenses & that's why we are protesting on road' #Bihar pic.twitter.com/nYCqwyyUxJ — ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2018 × A farmer said, "I spent Rs. 50000 per acre to produce tomatoes and now I am not even getting Rs. 500 for tomatoes produced in an acre. We don't have any other option left than destroying tomatoes here only." To register their protest, the farmers spilled tomatoes on road near Post Office square and ran their tractor trolleys over it. Some of them were seen crushing tomatoes with their feet.

Bihar: Farmers dump tomatoes on roads over inadequate prices

Arijit Shashwat, accused in the Bhagalpur communal violence case, was released from Bhagalpur jail earlier today after being granted bail.

An arrest warrant was issued against Shashwat and eight others in a communal clash case on March 17.&nbsp

Arijit Shashwat was arrested in Patna for his alleged involvement in the Bhagalpur communal clashes late night on March 31.&nbsp

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Arijit shashwat, son of Union Minister Ashwini Choubey, released from Bhagalpur jail after being granted bail in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bhagalpur?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bhagalpur</a> communal clash <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bihar?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bihar</a> (File pic) <a href="https://t.co/OK6JTmCf9O">pic.twitter.com/OK6JTmCf9O</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/983995656527335424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Shashwat, son of Union Minister Ashwini Choubey, was denied bail on March 31. He was then sent to judicial custody for 14-days. A local court on April 9 finally granted him bail.

Clashes broke out after Shashwat led a rally of saffron-clad youths in Nathnagar, Patna. Some people objected to the loud music that was being played during the procession. Several were injured while shops were vandalised.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp

Shashwat, son of Union Minister Ashwini Choubey, was denied bail on March 31. He was then sent to judicial custody for 14-days

Arijit Shashwat, accused in the Bhagalpur communal violence case, was released from Bhagalpur jail earlier today after being granted bail. An arrest warrant was issued against Shashwat and eight others in a communal clash case on March 17. Arijit Shashwat was arrested in Patna for his alleged involvement in the Bhagalpur communal clashes late night on March 31. Arijit shashwat, son of Union Minister Ashwini Choubey, released from Bhagalpur jail after being granted bail in #Bhagalpur communal clash #Bihar (File pic) pic.twitter.com/OK6JTmCf9O — ANI (@ANI) April 11, 2018 × Shashwat, son of Union Minister Ashwini Choubey, was denied bail on March 31. He was then sent to judicial custody for 14-days. A local court on April 9 finally granted him bail. Clashes broke out after Shashwat led a rally of saffron-clad youths in Nathnagar, Patna. Some people objected to the loud music that was being played during the procession. Several were injured while shops were vandalised. (With inputs from agencies)

Bhagalpur communal violence case: Arijit Shashwat released from jail

A nationwide anti-quota bandh call today received mixed reactions with shops remaining closed in some parts of states such as Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan amidst heavy security arrangements, while internet services were restricted in a few sensitive areas.

Reports said over a dozen of people were injured in a violent clash in Ara town in Bihar's Bhojpur district.

The reports added that additional security has been deployed in Ara.

Reports from Bihar also described attempts to block trains, while some schools suspended their bus services in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh (MP), which was the worst hit during the April 2 nationwide bandh called by Dalit groups with at least eight people being killed in violent protests.

Officials in MP said the call for today's bandh was given on social media and no organisation had come forward so far to claim responsibility for it.

In Rajasthan, which was also hit badly during the Dalit-convened bandh, the state government has issued prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the CrPC and blocked mobile internet services in the state capital as precautionary measure.

The police chiefs and collectors of districts across the state have been asked to take prompt action if any nuisance is created, officials in Jaipur said.

Yesterday, the union Home Ministry had issued advisory to all states to beef up security and prevent violence during the Bharat Bandh against caste-based reservations in jobs and education.

The Ministry of Home Affairs also said the districts magistrates and superintendents of police (SPs) would be personally held responsible for any violence in their area of jurisdiction.

The directive came a week after a similar protest saw massive violence in different parts of the country leading to the death of at least 11 persons.

"The situation in the state (Rajasthan) is peaceful," ADG (Law and Order) NRK Reddy told PTI in Jaipur.

He said that companies of paramilitary forces including BSF and CRPF have also been deployed at sensitive areas of different districts in the state.

Markets in the walled city area of Jaipur as well as in the areas such as Bajaj nagar, Barkat Nagar and nearby places were not open today.

However, no demonstration or rally has taken place and the situation is quite peaceful. Private schools were closed and transport vehicles are plying normally.

The authorities in Bhopal have announced daytime curfew in Morena and Bhind, besides enforcing prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) in Gwalior, Bhopal, Sagar and some other sensitive towns of the state to avoid any untoward incidents.

"We are monitoring the situation. There has been no impact of the alleged bandh so far. The state police is also keeping a watch on the social media," Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Bhupendra Singh told reporters.

The internet services too have been blocked in the Gwalior-Chambal region to prevent rumour-mongering, officials said.

Bhopal range Deputy Inspector General of Police Dharmendra Choudhary had said yesterday that the social media messages were being monitored.

He had warned that those spreading hate messages would be booked under the Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code for disobedience to order promulgated by public servant.

In Uttar Pradesh, life remained by and large normal and officials said there was no report of any untoward incident from anywhere in the state till around noon.

Today's anti-quota protest came a week after a nationwide protest by Dalit groups against "dilution" of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act by the Supreme Court, entailing massive violence in different parts of the country and leading to the death of nine people.&nbsp

The bandh, called in response to the earlier nationwide shutdown by the Dalit community, saw a mixed reaction elsewhere

A nationwide anti-quota bandh call today received mixed reactions with shops remaining closed in some parts of states such as Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan amidst heavy security arrangements, while internet services were restricted in a few sensitive areas. Reports said over a dozen of people were injured in a violent clash in Ara town in Bihar's Bhojpur district. The reports added that additional security has been deployed in Ara. Reports from Bihar also described attempts to block trains, while some schools suspended their bus services in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh (MP), which was the worst hit during the April 2 nationwide bandh called by Dalit groups with at least eight people being killed in violent protests. Officials in MP said the call for today's bandh was given on social media and no organisation had come forward so far to claim responsibility for it. In Rajasthan, which was also hit badly during the Dalit-convened bandh, the state government has issued prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the CrPC and blocked mobile internet services in the state capital as precautionary measure. The police chiefs and collectors of districts across the state have been asked to take prompt action if any nuisance is created, officials in Jaipur said. Yesterday, the union Home Ministry had issued advisory to all states to beef up security and prevent violence during the Bharat Bandh against caste-based reservations in jobs and education. The Ministry of Home Affairs also said the districts magistrates and superintendents of police (SPs) would be personally held responsible for any violence in their area of jurisdiction. The directive came a week after a similar protest saw massive violence in different parts of the country leading to the death of at least 11 persons. "The situation in the state (Rajasthan) is peaceful," ADG (Law and Order) NRK Reddy told PTI in Jaipur. He said that companies of paramilitary forces including BSF and CRPF have also been deployed at sensitive areas of different districts in the state. Markets in the walled city area of Jaipur as well as in the areas such as Bajaj nagar, Barkat Nagar and nearby places were not open today. However, no demonstration or rally has taken place and the situation is quite peaceful. Private schools were closed and transport vehicles are plying normally. The authorities in Bhopal have announced daytime curfew in Morena and Bhind, besides enforcing prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) in Gwalior, Bhopal, Sagar and some other sensitive towns of the state to avoid any untoward incidents. "We are monitoring the situation. There has been no impact of the alleged bandh so far. The state police is also keeping a watch on the social media," Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Bhupendra Singh told reporters. The internet services too have been blocked in the Gwalior-Chambal region to prevent rumour-mongering, officials said. Bhopal range Deputy Inspector General of Police Dharmendra Choudhary had said yesterday that the social media messages were being monitored. He had warned that those spreading hate messages would be booked under the Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code for disobedience to order promulgated by public servant. In Uttar Pradesh, life remained by and large normal and officials said there was no report of any untoward incident from anywhere in the state till around noon. Today's anti-quota protest came a week after a nationwide protest by Dalit groups against "dilution" of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act by the Supreme Court, entailing massive violence in different parts of the country and leading to the death of nine people.

Bharat anti-reservation Bandh: Over a dozen injured in violent clash in Bihar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday reached Motihari in Bihar in the concluding ceremony of the Champaran Satyagraha centenary celebrations at Motihari. Titled "Satyagrah se Swachhagrah" campaign, he addressed about 20,000 'Swacchagrahis' or cleanliness ambassadors at the Sacch Bharat Abhiyan event.&nbsp;

A sprawling tent-city, named 'Swachhagram', has been set up to accommodate the volunteers. Mahatma Gandhi had set off on his Champaran Satyagraha in 1917 in protest against atrocities on Indigo planters.

Here are some highlights of the event:&nbsp;

- PM Modi was accompanied by Bihar CM Nitish Kumar at the event on Tuesday where he laid foundation stone for four sewerage projects worth Rs. 1,111.56 crore. "These four projects together will create new sewage treatment plant (STP) capacity of 60 MLD and lay the sewer network of 376.12 km in Saidpur and Pahari sewerage zones of Patna," the release said.&nbsp;The expected sewage load for Patna by 2035 is estimated to be 320 MLD.&nbsp;

- PM Modi also flagged off&nbsp;an electric locomotive, with a 12,000 horsepower (HP), which will be flagged off from Bihar's Madhepura loco factory.&nbsp;This will be the first of 40 locomotives expected to roll out of the factory by the end of March 2020. Under the agreement with Alstom, India will get 800 high horsepower electric locomotives over the next 11 years, at a cost of Rs. 20,000 crore

- He also flagged off the first run of the Champaran Humsafar Express between Katihar and Old Delhi.&nbsp;The Champaran Humsafar Express will facilitate faster, safer and comfortable journey experience for the common man of North Bihar.&nbsp;

- "In the last one week, more than 8,50,000 toilets have been constructed in Bihar. This is a great achievement. I congratulate the people, the 'Swachhagrahis' and the State Govt for this," he said.&nbsp;

-&nbsp;We will launch a Gram Swaraj Abhiyan from April 14. We should see that the message of hygiene reaches all sections and every person in the society.&nbsp;We should make India a clean country in order to realise the idea of a 'New India' by 2022, says PM.&nbsp;

- At the event, PM Modi says Bihar is the state that transformed Mahatma Gandhi into 'Bapu'. "Hundred years ago, people from across the country came to Champaran and worked under the leadership of Gandhi. Today, enthusiastic youngsters are working shoulder to shoulder with cleanliness workers," he said.

- Rs&nbsp;6,600 crore worth projects have been launched&nbsp;today will be a boon to Bihar and Champaran. Projects worth Rs. 3,000 crore have been approved to prevent waste dumping in Ganga.&nbsp;

- "Under the leadership of Gandhi, the Satyagraha movement gave a new lease of life to many individuals. Swachhagraha is also changing people's lives," says Modi. "We will fulfill the dreams of Mahatma Gandhi" Modi added.&nbsp;

- He further urged the youth to play a big part in nation building with full enthusiasm.&nbsp;

A sprawling tent-city, named 'Swachhagram', has been set up to accommodate the volunteers. Mahatma Gandhi had set off on his Champaran Satyagraha in 1917 in protest against atrocities on Indigo planter

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday reached Motihari in Bihar in the concluding ceremony of the Champaran Satyagraha centenary celebrations at Motihari. Titled "Satyagrah se Swachhagrah" campaign, he addressed about 20,000 'Swacchagrahis' or cleanliness ambassadors at the Sacch Bharat Abhiyan event. A sprawling tent-city, named 'Swachhagram', has been set up to accommodate the volunteers. Mahatma Gandhi had set off on his Champaran Satyagraha in 1917 in protest against atrocities on Indigo planters. Here are some highlights of the event: - PM Modi was accompanied by Bihar CM Nitish Kumar at the event on Tuesday where he laid foundation stone for four sewerage projects worth Rs. 1,111.56 crore. "These four projects together will create new sewage treatment plant (STP) capacity of 60 MLD and lay the sewer network of 376.12 km in Saidpur and Pahari sewerage zones of Patna," the release said. The expected sewage load for Patna by 2035 is estimated to be 320 MLD. - PM Modi also flagged off an electric locomotive, with a 12,000 horsepower (HP), which will be flagged off from Bihar's Madhepura loco factory. This will be the first of 40 locomotives expected to roll out of the factory by the end of March 2020. Under the agreement with Alstom, India will get 800 high horsepower electric locomotives over the next 11 years, at a cost of Rs. 20,000 crore - He also flagged off the first run of the Champaran Humsafar Express between Katihar and Old Delhi. The Champaran Humsafar Express will facilitate faster, safer and comfortable journey experience for the common man of North Bihar. - "In the last one week, more than 8,50,000 toilets have been constructed in Bihar. This is a great achievement. I congratulate the people, the 'Swachhagrahis' and the State Govt for this," he said. - We will launch a Gram Swaraj Abhiyan from April 14. We should see that the message of hygiene reaches all sections and every person in the society. We should make India a clean country in order to realise the idea of a 'New India' by 2022, says PM. - At the event, PM Modi says Bihar is the state that transformed Mahatma Gandhi into 'Bapu'. "Hundred years ago, people from across the country came to Champaran and worked under the leadership of Gandhi. Today, enthusiastic youngsters are working shoulder to shoulder with cleanliness workers," he said. - Rs 6,600 crore worth projects have been launched today will be a boon to Bihar and Champaran. Projects worth Rs. 3,000 crore have been approved to prevent waste dumping in Ganga. - "Under the leadership of Gandhi, the Satyagraha movement gave a new lease of life to many individuals. Swachhagraha is also changing people's lives," says Modi. "We will fulfill the dreams of Mahatma Gandhi" Modi added. - He further urged the youth to play a big part in nation building with full enthusiasm.

8.5 lakh toilets built in Bihar in one week: PM Modi in Champaran

The Patiala House Court on Saturday will continue hearing the money laundering case filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Chief Lalu Prasad Yadav's daughter Misa Bharti and her husband Shailesh Kumar.

The duo was granted bail on Monday by a special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court in the aforementioned case, on the condition that they cannot leave the country without the Court's permission.

Nearly 10 days ago, the ED had seized a farmhouse belonging to the RJD Chief's daughter.

Misa and Shailesh's involvement is being probed in a money laundering case worth Rs. 8,000 crore, investigation for which began in July last year.

Apart from the ED, the Income Tax (I-T) department has also issued a final attachment order against Bharti and her husband in a benami assets case.

Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court earlier in January granted bail to two accused businessmen, Surendra Jain and Virender Jain in connection with the same case, and asked them to furnish personal bonds of Rs 2 lakh each.

Both businessmen brothers are allegedly involved in the black money racket being run by shell companies linked to Bharti and her husband.

Misa Bharti and her husband were granted bail on Monday by a special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court in the aforementioned case, on the condition that they cannot leave the country without the Court's permission

The Patiala House Court on Saturday will continue hearing the money laundering case filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Chief Lalu Prasad Yadav's daughter Misa Bharti and her husband Shailesh Kumar. The duo was granted bail on Monday by a special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court in the aforementioned case, on the condition that they cannot leave the country without the Court's permission. Nearly 10 days ago, the ED had seized a farmhouse belonging to the RJD Chief's daughter. Misa and Shailesh's involvement is being probed in a money laundering case worth Rs. 8,000 crore, investigation for which began in July last year. Apart from the ED, the Income Tax (I-T) department has also issued a final attachment order against Bharti and her husband in a benami assets case. Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court earlier in January granted bail to two accused businessmen, Surendra Jain and Virender Jain in connection with the same case, and asked them to furnish personal bonds of Rs 2 lakh each. Both businessmen brothers are allegedly involved in the black money racket being run by shell companies linked to Bharti and her husband.

Delhi Court to hear money laundering case against Misa Bharti

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) worker Anil Singh, who was arrested in connection with the recent communal clash in Bihar`s Aurangabad, has escaped from the police custody.

Singh, who was one of the central figures among the 148 persons booked in the matter fled away on Thursday.&nbsp

A clash broke out between two communities during Rama Navami celebrations on March 25.&nbsp

The situation became tense in the evening when rioters set ablaze more than 20 shops and pelted stones at those participating in the Rama Navami procession through Nawadih Colony.&nbsp

As per reports, nearly 50 shops were torched by rioters, while nearly 60 persons, including 20 policemen were injured due to stone pelting by miscreants.&nbsp

The situation further intensified on Monday, which thereby led to a curfew being imposed in the vicinity.&nbsp

Anil Singh was arrested in connection with the recent communal clash in Bihar`s Aurangabad

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) worker Anil Singh, who was arrested in connection with the recent communal clash in Bihar`s Aurangabad, has escaped from the police custody. Singh, who was one of the central figures among the 148 persons booked in the matter fled away on Thursday. A clash broke out between two communities during Rama Navami celebrations on March 25. The situation became tense in the evening when rioters set ablaze more than 20 shops and pelted stones at those participating in the Rama Navami procession through Nawadih Colony. As per reports, nearly 50 shops were torched by rioters, while nearly 60 persons, including 20 policemen were injured due to stone pelting by miscreants. The situation further intensified on Monday, which thereby led to a curfew being imposed in the vicinity.

Aurangabad clash: BJP worker flee away from police custody

Minister of State for External Affairs, General VK Singh is going to Iraq on April 1 and on the matter, he spoke exclusively to Zee News.

VK Singh is going to Iraq to bring back bodies of 38 Indians&nbsp;who died in Mosul in Iraq while speaking to Zee, VK Singh expressed grief over the matter and said, "the government is sad that we can not bring the Indians back to life."

VK Singh said that " the kind of honesty Modi government &nbsp;showed while trying to find Indians, no government had made such an effort before this."

He further informed that 38 Indian bodies have been identified which will be recovered from Iraq. 27 bodies are from Punjab, 4 are from Himachal and the rest are from Bengal and Bihar.

However, VK Singh also informed that one Indian name Raju Yadav from Bihar, his body has not been identified even after 70 DNA test was done.

"If his body also gets identified that all 39 Indians' body will be brought back to India."

While speaking on the efforts made by the government to search Indians, he said that "the Indian government was in constant touch with Iraq." &nbsp;

"I myself went to Iraq several times and tried to find the missing Indians, he added.

VK Singh also said that he has only one question for people who are politicising the matter and that is "why they didn't go to Iraq to find Indians?"

VK Singh further urged the state governments to help families at every step and the Centre is ready for whatever help they need.

After coming from Iraq, VK Singh will go to Amritsar, Bihar and Kolkata with bodies.

Sushma Swaraj on March 20 informed Rajya Sabha that 39 Indians who were kidnapped and had gone missing since 2014 are dead now.

Sushma Swaraj said that the Islamic State (IS) had killed all the Indian nationals.

Total 40 Indians were kidnapped in Iraq from which one, Harjit Masih from Gurdaspur had managed to escape and had claimed to have witnessed the massacre of the others. But the government has rejected this claims.

VK Singh is going to Iraq to bring back bodies of 38 Indians who died in Iraq

Minister of State for External Affairs, General VK Singh is going to Iraq on April 1 and on the matter, he spoke exclusively to Zee News. VK Singh is going to Iraq to bring back bodies of 38 Indians who died in Mosul in Iraq while speaking to Zee, VK Singh expressed grief over the matter and said, "the government is sad that we can not bring the Indians back to life." VK Singh said that " the kind of honesty Modi government showed while trying to find Indians, no government had made such an effort before this." He further informed that 38 Indian bodies have been identified which will be recovered from Iraq. 27 bodies are from Punjab, 4 are from Himachal and the rest are from Bengal and Bihar. However, VK Singh also informed that one Indian name Raju Yadav from Bihar, his body has not been identified even after 70 DNA test was done. "If his body also gets identified that all 39 Indians' body will be brought back to India." While speaking on the efforts made by the government to search Indians, he said that "the Indian government was in constant touch with Iraq." "I myself went to Iraq several times and tried to find the missing Indians, he added. VK Singh also said that he has only one question for people who are politicising the matter and that is "why they didn't go to Iraq to find Indians?" VK Singh further urged the state governments to help families at every step and the Centre is ready for whatever help they need. After coming from Iraq, VK Singh will go to Amritsar, Bihar and Kolkata with bodies. Sushma Swaraj on March 20 informed Rajya Sabha that 39 Indians who were kidnapped and had gone missing since 2014 are dead now. Sushma Swaraj said that the Islamic State (IS) had killed all the Indian nationals. Total 40 Indians were kidnapped in Iraq from which one, Harjit Masih from Gurdaspur had managed to escape and had claimed to have witnessed the massacre of the others. But the government has rejected this claims.

Government ready to help families of Indians killed in Mosul: VK Singh

Every five years, a finance commission decides how to split India's tax revenue between the Centre and India's states.&nbsp;

A major factor deciding the split is a state's population. The bigger a state's population, the greater the share of tax revenue given to it.&nbsp;

That however, say the experts, is also unfair for it punishes the states that have done the hard work of controlling their populations.&nbsp;

There is at the moment a massive difference in fertility rates — the rate at which a state's population grows — between the southern and other states, with the southern states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra, Telangana, and the western state of Maharashtra having a fertility rate of about 1.5.&nbsp;

Bihar on the other hand has a fertility rate of about 3.5, and the other Bimaru states a rate of about 2.5.&nbsp;

The problem cropped up when the previous finance commission switched over to the 2011 Census to decide&nbsp;the split the commissions had so far been using the 1971 Census.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu's politicians, including Chief Minister E Palaniswami and Leader of the Opposition MK Stalin, have said a division on the basis of the 2011 Census will be patently unfair. They say they have done the hard work of controlling their populations and instead of being rewarded for having done so, they are now being punished.&nbsp;

They have also accused the Centre of "highway robbery". And are insisting the current 15th finance commission go back to the 1971 Census.&nbsp;

BJP general secretary Ram Madhav met on Wednesday with Finance Commission Chairperson NK Singh, news reports said, and promised that the southern states would not lose out.&nbsp;

The reports however did not say how he would ensure that.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Tax revenue is divided on the basis of population. The larger a state's population, the higher its share of revenue. That, say the southern states and experts, is patently unfair

Every five years, a finance commission decides how to split India's tax revenue between the Centre and India's states. A major factor deciding the split is a state's population. The bigger a state's population, the greater the share of tax revenue given to it. That however, say the experts, is also unfair for it punishes the states that have done the hard work of controlling their populations. There is at the moment a massive difference in fertility rates — the rate at which a state's population grows — between the southern and other states, with the southern states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra, Telangana, and the western state of Maharashtra having a fertility rate of about 1.5. Bihar on the other hand has a fertility rate of about 3.5, and the other Bimaru states a rate of about 2.5. The problem cropped up when the previous finance commission switched over to the 2011 Census to decide the split the commissions had so far been using the 1971 Census. Tamil Nadu's politicians, including Chief Minister E Palaniswami and Leader of the Opposition MK Stalin, have said a division on the basis of the 2011 Census will be patently unfair. They say they have done the hard work of controlling their populations and instead of being rewarded for having done so, they are now being punished. They have also accused the Centre of "highway robbery". And are insisting the current 15th finance commission go back to the 1971 Census. BJP general secretary Ram Madhav met on Wednesday with Finance Commission Chairperson NK Singh, news reports said, and promised that the southern states would not lose out. The reports however did not say how he would ensure that.

Southern states accuse Centre of 'highway robbery', say not getting fair share of tax revenue

A Naxal with a reward of Rs 50,000 was arrested in Noida, Uttar Pradesh on Monday.

The arrestee, identified as Sudhir Bhagat, is accused of at least four murders and cases of massacre in Bihar.

A resident of&nbsp&nbspMuzaffarpur, Bihar, he was residing in Noida Sector 5 for the past three years.&nbsp

He had rented the house in Noida&nbspusing a fake ID.&nbsp

The police have also recovered a pistol from the man.

Police claimed Bhagat has confessed&nbspbeing a Naxal commander.

The arrestee, identified as Sudhir Bhagat, is accused of at least four murders and cases of massacre in Bihar

A Naxal with a reward of Rs 50,000 was arrested in Noida, Uttar Pradesh on Monday. The arrestee, identified as Sudhir Bhagat, is accused of at least four murders and cases of massacre in Bihar. A resident of &nbspMuzaffarpur, Bihar, he was residing in Noida Sector 5 for the past three years. He had rented the house in Noida&nbspusing a fake ID. The police have also recovered a pistol from the man. Police claimed Bhagat has confessed&nbspbeing a Naxal commander.

Noida: Police arrest suspected Naxal with Rs 50,000 bounty on his head

In wake of the clashes at Aurangabad Bihar, a heated exchange took place between the&nbspBihar chief minister Nitish Kumar and leader of opposition Tejashwi Yadav in the state Legislative assembly on Monday.

Chief minister Nitish Kumar&nbspended up giving an advice to Tejashwi Yadav in middle of the assembly proceedings.

His advice came after Tejashwi Yadav questioned the government about&nbspthe recent clashes in Rama Navami.

The CM said, " Suno babu baat&nbspsamjho, you have a long career in politics and you should be willing to learn".

He then turned to another RJD leader and asked him (referring to Tejashwi)&nbsp "Why does anyone not teach him some basics?".

Kumar also said that the&nbspRam Navami was celebrated peacefully in the state with few exceptions.

Clashes broke out in Bihar's Aurangabad town on the occasion of Ram Navami when members of two communities indulged in heavy stone pelting leaving several injured.

A number of people were injured in the clashes that broke out between two communities in Bihar's Bhagalpur

In wake of the clashes at Aurangabad Bihar, a heated exchange took place between the&nbspBihar chief minister Nitish Kumar and leader of opposition Tejashwi Yadav in the state Legislative assembly on Monday. Chief minister Nitish Kumar&nbspended up giving an advice to Tejashwi Yadav in middle of the assembly proceedings. His advice came after Tejashwi Yadav questioned the government about&nbspthe recent clashes in Rama Navami. The CM said, " Suno babu baat samjho, you have a long career in politics and you should be willing to learn". He then turned to another RJD leader and asked him (referring to Tejashwi) "Why does anyone not teach him some basics?". Kumar also said that the&nbspRam Navami was celebrated peacefully in the state with few exceptions. Clashes broke out in Bihar's Aurangabad town on the occasion of Ram Navami when members of two communities indulged in heavy stone pelting leaving several injured.

'Suno babu, baat samjho,' Nitish Kumar tells Tejashwi Yadav after Ram Navami clashes

Senior BJP MP from Patna Sahib, Bihar, Shatrughan Sinha who frequently draws controversies over his repeated attacks on his own political party has yet again invited attention after his meet with BJP arch-rival RJD chief Lalu Yadav and his family.

Referring to the&nbsprecent verdict on Lalu Yadav where<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/fodder-scam-lalu-prasad-yadav-sentenced-to-14-years-jail-in-dumka-treasury-case-36979" target="_blank">&nbspthe court has awarded him imprisonment of 14 years</a>&nbspas "heartbreaking and non-expected", Sinha tweeted&nbsp"It was a great reunion of old family friends and members of mutual admiration society".

Sinha went to meet Lalu Yadav at&nbsp&nbspRanchi Institute of Medical Sciences where the RJD chief is undergoing treatment.&nbsp

He further tweeted "It is indeed a learning experience always to see Laluji's high morale, inner strength & cool. “Seeing is believing”! Of course the support, sympathy, blessings of people in general and Bihar, in particular, give him the strength. Had gone to meet, wish & enquire about his health."

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Great meeting with Lalu Yadav amidst heartbreaking & non expected verdict... 
...of course with necessary administrative permission – nothing political or official about it. 
It was a great reunion of old family friends & members of mutual admiration society..1>2 <a href="https://t.co/ESbRxRLMyw">pic.twitter.com/ESbRxRLMyw</a>
— Shatrughan Sinha (@ShatruganSinha) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShatruganSinha/status/977775311931756544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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After meeting the RJD chief, Sinha also met with his wife and former Bihar chief minister Rabri Devi and her sons Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap&nbspYadav.

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BJP leader Shatrughan Sinha met RJD leader Rabri Devi & her sons Tejashwi Yadav & Tej Pratap Yadav at her residence in Patna <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bihar?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bihar</a> <a href="https://t.co/JkIbFq1hKK">pic.twitter.com/JkIbFq1hKK</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/977961286947532801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The meeting of the disgruntled BJP leader with Lalu Yadav and his family has sparked speculation about his future position in the party.&nbsp

The meeting of the disgruntled BJP leader with Lalu Yadav and his family has sparked speculation about his future position in the party

Senior BJP MP from Patna Sahib, Bihar, Shatrughan Sinha who frequently draws controversies over his repeated attacks on his own political party has yet again invited attention after his meet with BJP arch-rival RJD chief Lalu Yadav and his family. Referring to the&nbsprecent verdict on Lalu Yadav where&nbspthe court has awarded him imprisonment of 14 years&nbspas "heartbreaking and non-expected", Sinha tweeted "It was a great reunion of old family friends and members of mutual admiration society". Sinha went to meet Lalu Yadav at &nbspRanchi Institute of Medical Sciences where the RJD chief is undergoing treatment. He further tweeted "It is indeed a learning experience always to see Laluji's high morale, inner strength & cool. “Seeing is believing”! Of course the support, sympathy, blessings of people in general and Bihar, in particular, give him the strength. Had gone to meet, wish & enquire about his health." Great meeting with Lalu Yadav amidst heartbreaking & non expected verdict... ...of course with necessary administrative permission – nothing political or official about it. It was a great reunion of old family friends & members of mutual admiration society..1>2 pic.twitter.com/ESbRxRLMyw — Shatrughan Sinha (@ShatruganSinha) March 25, 2018 × After meeting the RJD chief, Sinha also met with his wife and former Bihar chief minister Rabri Devi and her sons Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap&nbspYadav. BJP leader Shatrughan Sinha met RJD leader Rabri Devi & her sons Tejashwi Yadav & Tej Pratap Yadav at her residence in Patna #Bihar pic.twitter.com/JkIbFq1hKK — ANI (@ANI) March 25, 2018 × The meeting of the disgruntled BJP leader with Lalu Yadav and his family has sparked speculation about his future position in the party.

Shatrughan Sinha meets Lalu Yadav, family; calls court verdict against him 'heartbreaking and non-expected'

The special CBI court on Saturday sentenced the RJD chief for 14 years in Dumka treasury case.&nbsp;

The case involves the fraudulent withdrawal of Rs 3.13 crore from December 1995 to January 1996 from the Dumka treasury.

Lalu was convicted in the case on March 19 by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court in Ranchi.

The special CBI judge Shiv Pal Singh delivered the judgement in the case under Indian Penal Code and&nbsp;the Prevention of Corruption Act.&nbsp;

He had pronounced him separate sentences of seven years each under the two sections. The two terms will be served consequently making the jail term to 14 years.

The CBI judge also imposed a fine of Rs 60 lakh on Lalu. He also directed the Enforcement Directorate to confiscate the assets acquired illegally&nbsp;from&nbsp;Dumka treasury.&nbsp;

The former Bihar chief minister is already serving sentences for three prior fodder scam-related convictions where he&nbsp;has been awarded jail terms of three and a half to five years. The sentence in these cases is&nbsp;running concurrently.

In this case, however, the sentence will run consequently and not concurrently.&nbsp;

This is the maximum sentence awarded to any politician in the fodder scam.

 
&nbsp;

Lalu was sentenced to two separate 7-year terms under the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Corruption Act. The two terms will be served consequently

The special CBI court on Saturday sentenced the RJD chief for 14 years in Dumka treasury case. The case involves the fraudulent withdrawal of Rs 3.13 crore from December 1995 to January 1996 from the Dumka treasury. Lalu was convicted in the case on March 19 by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court in Ranchi. The special CBI judge Shiv Pal Singh delivered the judgement in the case under Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Corruption Act. He had pronounced him separate sentences of seven years each under the two sections. The two terms will be served consequently making the jail term to 14 years. The CBI judge also imposed a fine of Rs 60 lakh on Lalu. He also directed the Enforcement Directorate to confiscate the assets acquired illegally from Dumka treasury. The former Bihar chief minister is already serving sentences for three prior fodder scam-related convictions where he has been awarded jail terms of three and a half to five years. The sentence in these cases is running concurrently. In this case, however, the sentence will run consequently and not concurrently. This is the maximum sentence awarded to any politician in the fodder scam.

4th fodder scam: Lalu Yadav sentenced to 14 years in jail

At least five people died in a blast that took place in an illegal firecracker factory at Nalanda&#39;s Jalalpur in Bihar. &nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Visuals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Visuals</a> from Nalanda&#39;s Jalalpur, where a blast took place in an illegal firecracker factory. One dead, 25 injured in the blast. Investigation is underway. <a href="https://t.co/eYP4hrrUHm">pic.twitter.com/eYP4hrrUHm</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/976978544491450368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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At least 25 people sustained injuries in the incident, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

One person reportedly died as per earlier reports.&nbsp;

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Latest <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/visuals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#visuals</a> from Nalanda&#39;s Jalalpur where a blast in an illegal firecracker factory killed five &amp; injured several <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bihar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bihar</a> <a href="https://t.co/ImEyd2KcnF">pic.twitter.com/ImEyd2KcnF</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/976998945455996930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The investigation is underway, as per ANI report.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

At least 25 people sustained injuries in the incident.

At least five people died in a blast that took place in an illegal firecracker factory at Nalanda's Jalalpur in Bihar. #Visuals from Nalanda's Jalalpur, where a blast took place in an illegal firecracker factory. One dead, 25 injured in the blast. Investigation is underway. pic.twitter.com/eYP4hrrUHm — ANI (@ANI) March 23, 2018 × At least 25 people sustained injuries in the incident, news agency ANI reported. One person reportedly died as per earlier reports. Latest #visuals from Nalanda's Jalalpur where a blast in an illegal firecracker factory killed five & injured several #Bihar pic.twitter.com/ImEyd2KcnF — ANI (@ANI) March 23, 2018 × The investigation is underway, as per ANI report.

Bihar: Death toll rises to 5 in blast at illegal firecracker factory

The family members of the woman who was operated upon in torchlight at Sadar Hospital in Saharsa, Bihar are mourning her death.

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Bihar: Family of the woman who was operated upon in torch light at Sadar Hospital in Saharsa, mourns her death. She passed away last night. Relatives say &#39;we hold the administration and their negligence responsible for her death&#39; <a href="https://t.co/FwS9WbIfcB">pic.twitter.com/FwS9WbIfcB</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/976661696734482432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-bihar-doctor-operates-on-woman-under-torchlight-36340">She passed away last night</a>. Relatives of the victim held the administration and their negligence responsible for her death.

&#39;&#39;We hold the administration and their negligence responsible for her death,&#39;&#39; they said.

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We weren&#39;t satisfied with her treatment. So we admitted her in pvt hospital. They kept saying she&#39;s fine &amp; made us wait for 2 days. Suddenly they asked us to take her to Patna where they said she has broken bones &amp; internal injuries. No case registered yet: Omkar, relative <a href="https://t.co/uCDJnXgCXA">pic.twitter.com/uCDJnXgCXA</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/976661700207357952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The woman who died was operated upon in torchlight. The doctors at the hospital used a torch as there was no electricity in the hospital at the time of surgery.

There was no facility of the generator at the hospital and therefore the doctors had no other option.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: A woman is operated upon in torch light at Sadar Hospital in Saharsa as there was no electricity at that time in the hospital. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bihar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bihar</a> <a href="https://t.co/HN6T5I2683">pic.twitter.com/HN6T5I2683</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/975542261923614720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The video showed a woman on a stretcher in an unconscious state. Many people were seen surrounding and operating her.

The people who were operating her were not dressed in the usual white apron.&nbsp;

Bihar Health Minister then speaking to media denied any operation being conducted under torchlight and said that the patient was injured and given stitches in the dressing room.&nbsp;

The woman died Wednesday night. 'We hold the administration and their negligence responsible for her death,' her family said

The family members of the woman who was operated upon in torchlight at Sadar Hospital in Saharsa, Bihar are mourning her death. Bihar: Family of the woman who was operated upon in torch light at Sadar Hospital in Saharsa, mourns her death. She passed away last night. Relatives say 'we hold the administration and their negligence responsible for her death' pic.twitter.com/FwS9WbIfcB — ANI (@ANI) March 22, 2018 × She passed away last night. Relatives of the victim held the administration and their negligence responsible for her death. ''We hold the administration and their negligence responsible for her death,'' they said. We weren't satisfied with her treatment. So we admitted her in pvt hospital. They kept saying she's fine & made us wait for 2 days. Suddenly they asked us to take her to Patna where they said she has broken bones & internal injuries. No case registered yet: Omkar, relative pic.twitter.com/uCDJnXgCXA — ANI (@ANI) March 22, 2018 × The woman who died was operated upon in torchlight. The doctors at the hospital used a torch as there was no electricity in the hospital at the time of surgery. There was no facility of the generator at the hospital and therefore the doctors had no other option. #WATCH: A woman is operated upon in torch light at Sadar Hospital in Saharsa as there was no electricity at that time in the hospital. #Bihar pic.twitter.com/HN6T5I2683 — ANI (@ANI) March 19, 2018 × The video showed a woman on a stretcher in an unconscious state. Many people were seen surrounding and operating her. The people who were operating her were not dressed in the usual white apron. Bihar Health Minister then speaking to media denied any operation being conducted under torchlight and said that the patient was injured and given stitches in the dressing room.

Bihar woman who was operated upon under torchlight dies, family blames government

Without naming its ally BJP, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday said he will not compromise with politics that divides society.

The JD-U President told the media that his party will not compromise with the people who are trying to divide the society.

&quot;We will not side with divisive politics,&quot; he said.

&quot;Our policy is very clear in this regard. We cannot support those trying to divide the society, nor will we compromise with corruption. We firmly believe in social harmony and taking everyone together. My government works for development with justice,&quot; Nitish said.

He also strongly pitched for special category status for Bihar. A similar demand for Andhra Pradesh saw TDP pull out of the BJP-led government at the Centre last week.

The trigger for Nitish&#39;s outburst, highly placed sources said, was the Darbhanga incident in which a septuagenarian was hacked to death.The man&#39;s family members and a section of BJP leaders - including state president Nityanand Rai and Union minister Giriraj Singh - have alleged the murder was sparked by the elderly man&#39;s putting up a board at a chowk naming it after Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

However, police and deputy chief minister Sushil Kumar Modi say the murder was a fallout of an old dispute over land. &quot;Nitish was upset after seeing footage showing Giriraj inciting a crowd to raise slogans against the Darbhanga DSP,&quot; a JDU leader said under cover of anonymity.

Paswan's and Nitish's comments follow BJP's shock defeat last week in all three Lok Sabha by-elections — two in UP and one in Bihar

Without naming its ally BJP, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday said he will not compromise with politics that divides society. The JD-U President told the media that his party will not compromise with the people who are trying to divide the society. "We will not side with divisive politics," he said. "Our policy is very clear in this regard. We cannot support those trying to divide the society, nor will we compromise with corruption. We firmly believe in social harmony and taking everyone together. My government works for development with justice," Nitish said. He also strongly pitched for special category status for Bihar. A similar demand for Andhra Pradesh saw TDP pull out of the BJP-led government at the Centre last week. The trigger for Nitish's outburst, highly placed sources said, was the Darbhanga incident in which a septuagenarian was hacked to death.The man's family members and a section of BJP leaders - including state president Nityanand Rai and Union minister Giriraj Singh - have alleged the murder was sparked by the elderly man's putting up a board at a chowk naming it after Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, police and deputy chief minister Sushil Kumar Modi say the murder was a fallout of an old dispute over land. "Nitish was upset after seeing footage showing Giriraj inciting a crowd to raise slogans against the Darbhanga DSP," a JDU leader said under cover of anonymity.

Will not side with divisive politics: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today said he had not given up the demand for grant of special status to Bihar &quot;for even one second&quot; since he first raised the issue 13 years ago.

He also hit out at the RJD for questioning his &quot;silence&quot; after the TDP pulled out of the NDA seeking similar benefits for Andhra Pradesh.

Kumar declined to comment on the fresh conviction of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad in the fourth fodder scam case but said the claims of the former chief minister and his family members of being &quot;framed&quot; in corruption cases &quot;could convince only hardcore supporters&quot;.

&quot;I had written to the then prime minister for a special status to Bihar in 2005, shortly after assuming power in the state. A year later, we got a resolution passed in the state assembly to the effect.

&quot;Since then, the demand has been raised by us relentlessly and I have not strayed for even a second. I&#39;m amused to see those who were never concerned about the issue have suddenly started questioning my silence&quot;, Kumar told reporters at party headquarters here.

He also indicated that the issue of special status for Bihar would be raised before the 15th Finance Commission.

Kumar, who is the JD(U) national chief, had made a surprise appearance at a press conference convened by state chief Bashishth Narain Singh to announce merger of a breakaway faction of Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) founded by former chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi.

Senior JD(U) leader and state minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh was also present on the occasion.

Kumar was responding to queries about the relentless attacks by Lalu Prasad and Leader of Opposition in state Assembly Tejashwi Yadav.

They have been challenging him to speak up on the issue of special status for Bihar in the backdrop of the TDP walking out of the NDA over a similar demand for Andhra Pradesh. 
&quot;Special status is a need for Bihar. We will work towards ensuring that it is fulfilled. But we are not going to issue statements about the matter every now and then. We have always placed interests of the voters above their votes, unlike our detractors,&quot; he said.

About Prasad&#39;s conviction in the Dumka treasury case , Kumar said, &quot;It is a judicial verdict and I have never spoken about a judgement passed by a court of law&quot;.

A special CBI court in Ranchi today convicted Lalu Prasad in the fourth case of multi-crore fodder scam related to fradulent withdrawal of Rs 3.13 crore from Dumka treasury in 1990s.

The court acquitted former chief minister Jagannath Mishra in the same case.

To a query about allegations of political vendetta and that the RJD supremo was being &quot;framed&quot;, he said, &quot;When we were sharing power in Bihar, they said the same thing. I had said this could convince only hardcore supporters.&quot;

The chief minister also said his government had ensured communal harmony and betterment of all communities and that he strongly believed in &quot;taking all sections of the society along&quot;.

He, however, replied in the negative when asked whether he would advise the same to his ally BJP which has often been accused of triggering communal tension. &quot;Every party has to decide its own course of action&quot;, he said.

To another query, the JD(U) chief said he did not attach much importance to bypoll results and &quot;had decided to stay away in keeping with our policy not to contest a bypoll necessitated by incumbent&#39;s death. We relented following the

BJP&#39;s demands, though we knew what would be the outcome&quot;.

The JD(U) had contested the Jahanabad assembly segment in bypolls, where its candidate lost by a margin of over 35,000 votes.

About the Supreme Court order dismissing a PIL seeking his disqualification from the Legislative council on the ground that he did not disclose his criminal records, he said, &quot;I was not made a party and not even served with a notice&quot;.

Kumar declined to comment on the fresh conviction of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad in the fourth fodder scam case but said the claims of the former chief minister and his family members of being 'framed' in corruption cases 'could convince only hardcore supporters'

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today said he had not given up the demand for grant of special status to Bihar "for even one second" since he first raised the issue 13 years ago. He also hit out at the RJD for questioning his "silence" after the TDP pulled out of the NDA seeking similar benefits for Andhra Pradesh. Kumar declined to comment on the fresh conviction of RJD supremo Lalu Prasad in the fourth fodder scam case but said the claims of the former chief minister and his family members of being "framed" in corruption cases "could convince only hardcore supporters". "I had written to the then prime minister for a special status to Bihar in 2005, shortly after assuming power in the state. A year later, we got a resolution passed in the state assembly to the effect. "Since then, the demand has been raised by us relentlessly and I have not strayed for even a second. I'm amused to see those who were never concerned about the issue have suddenly started questioning my silence", Kumar told reporters at party headquarters here. He also indicated that the issue of special status for Bihar would be raised before the 15th Finance Commission. Kumar, who is the JD(U) national chief, had made a surprise appearance at a press conference convened by state chief Bashishth Narain Singh to announce merger of a breakaway faction of Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) founded by former chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi. Senior JD(U) leader and state minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh was also present on the occasion. Kumar was responding to queries about the relentless attacks by Lalu Prasad and Leader of Opposition in state Assembly Tejashwi Yadav. They have been challenging him to speak up on the issue of special status for Bihar in the backdrop of the TDP walking out of the NDA over a similar demand for Andhra Pradesh. "Special status is a need for Bihar. We will work towards ensuring that it is fulfilled. But we are not going to issue statements about the matter every now and then. We have always placed interests of the voters above their votes, unlike our detractors," he said. About Prasad's conviction in the Dumka treasury case , Kumar said, "It is a judicial verdict and I have never spoken about a judgement passed by a court of law". A special CBI court in Ranchi today convicted Lalu Prasad in the fourth case of multi-crore fodder scam related to fradulent withdrawal of Rs 3.13 crore from Dumka treasury in 1990s. The court acquitted former chief minister Jagannath Mishra in the same case. To a query about allegations of political vendetta and that the RJD supremo was being "framed", he said, "When we were sharing power in Bihar, they said the same thing. I had said this could convince only hardcore supporters." The chief minister also said his government had ensured communal harmony and betterment of all communities and that he strongly believed in "taking all sections of the society along". He, however, replied in the negative when asked whether he would advise the same to his ally BJP which has often been accused of triggering communal tension. "Every party has to decide its own course of action", he said. To another query, the JD(U) chief said he did not attach much importance to bypoll results and "had decided to stay away in keeping with our policy not to contest a bypoll necessitated by incumbent's death. We relented following the BJP's demands, though we knew what would be the outcome". The JD(U) had contested the Jahanabad assembly segment in bypolls, where its candidate lost by a margin of over 35,000 votes. About the Supreme Court order dismissing a PIL seeking his disqualification from the Legislative council on the ground that he did not disclose his criminal records, he said, "I was not made a party and not even served with a notice".

Not given up demand for special status: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar

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