Former Prime Minister of Malaysia Mahathir Mohamad is often blamed for ruining the bilateral ties between his country and India.

In December last year, he slammed India by questioning the necessity of the the Indian Citizenship (Amendment) Act&nbsp;at Kuala Lumpur summit in Malaysia.

Indian foreign ministry had hit&nbsp;back by rejecting all claims and said that the&nbsp;Indian citizenship law was India's internal matter.&nbsp;

Mahathir went&nbsp;out of his way to take on India, merely to&nbsp;impress Pakistan.

As a result, India&nbsp;imposed&nbsp;a de facto ban on palm oil imports from Malaysia over a diplomatic row.&nbsp;In January this year, Malaysia palm oil export to india tanked 85 per cent&nbsp;year-on-year, the lowest since 2011.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-imposes-new-curbs-on-malaysia-as-mahathir-mohamad-continues-to-comment-on-caa-274344">India plans to impose new curbs on Malaysia as Mahathir Mohamad continues to comment on CAA</a>

The country's government&nbsp;also&nbsp;confined import of microchips amid signs that the trade issue was probably not going to be sifted through soon as the Southeast Asian country kept&nbsp;on irritating India over Kashmir and the Citizenship (Amendment Act).

But a month later, the political dynamic in Malaysia changed. Mahathir Mohamad resigned as Malaysia's prime minister in February this year.

The country is currently being headed by Muhyiddin Yassin. This has brought positive changes in&nbsp;rebuilding India-Malaysia bilateral ties.

For starters, the two countries are engaging with each other. India's external affairs minsiter S.Jaishankar spoke to his Malaysian counterpart after the Yassin government took charge.

India's high commissioner to Malaysia Mridul Kumar has held several rounds of talks with Malaysian foreign minister Hisha-Muddin. The Indian envoy was the first foreign official that he received on taking office.

On the trade front,&nbsp;India resumed the import of Malaysian palm oil in May this year. India also increased imports of rice, sugar and high-speed diesel.

New Delhi and Kuala Lumpur have been working closely through the Wuhan virus pandemic.

India's Vande Vharat flights have brought back at least 7000 Indians from Malaysia. India is also exporting hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol to malaysia.

On August 5, the&nbsp;anniversary of the abrogation of article 370, under&nbsp;Yassin's leadership,&nbsp;Malaysia refrained from making any comment despite the fact that its&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;tried&nbsp;its best to rake the issue of Kashmir.

Therefore, it can be said that there has been a noticeable change in Malaysia's attitude towards India. But the elephant in the room, that is Zakir Naik, remains unaddressed.

Naik is accused of terrorism, hate speech and money laundering but the man is still hiding in Malaysia.

India sent a formal extradition request on May 14 this year. But the response from Malaysia has not been positive.

So, going forward, if Yassin wants to continue improving ties with India. He must cooperate with New Delhi in Naik's extradition.

If Malaysia agrees to send the Naik back to India, that will be a defining moment in the India-Malaysia ties.

Former Prime Minister of Malaysia Mahathir Mohamad is often blamed for ruining the bilateral ties between his country and India. In December last year, he slammed India by questioning the necessity of the the Indian Citizenship (Amendment) Act at Kuala Lumpur summit in Malaysia.

Former Prime Minister of Malaysia Mahathir Mohamad is often blamed for ruining the bilateral ties between his country and India. In December last year, he slammed India by questioning the necessity of the the Indian Citizenship (Amendment) Act at Kuala Lumpur summit in Malaysia. Indian foreign ministry had hit back by rejecting all claims and said that the Indian citizenship law was India's internal matter. Mahathir went out of his way to take on India, merely to impress Pakistan. As a result, India imposed a de facto ban on palm oil imports from Malaysia over a diplomatic row. In January this year, Malaysia palm oil export to india tanked 85 per cent year-on-year, the lowest since 2011. Also read: India plans to impose new curbs on Malaysia as Mahathir Mohamad continues to comment on CAA The country's government also confined import of microchips amid signs that the trade issue was probably not going to be sifted through soon as the Southeast Asian country kept on irritating India over Kashmir and the Citizenship (Amendment Act). But a month later, the political dynamic in Malaysia changed. Mahathir Mohamad resigned as Malaysia's prime minister in February this year. The country is currently being headed by Muhyiddin Yassin. This has brought positive changes in rebuilding India-Malaysia bilateral ties. For starters, the two countries are engaging with each other. India's external affairs minsiter S.Jaishankar spoke to his Malaysian counterpart after the Yassin government took charge. India's high commissioner to Malaysia Mridul Kumar has held several rounds of talks with Malaysian foreign minister Hisha-Muddin. The Indian envoy was the first foreign official that he received on taking office. On the trade front, India resumed the import of Malaysian palm oil in May this year. India also increased imports of rice, sugar and high-speed diesel. New Delhi and Kuala Lumpur have been working closely through the Wuhan virus pandemic. India's Vande Vharat flights have brought back at least 7000 Indians from Malaysia. India is also exporting hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol to malaysia. On August 5, the anniversary of the abrogation of article 370, under Yassin's leadership, Malaysia refrained from making any comment despite the fact that its Pakistan tried its best to rake the issue of Kashmir. Therefore, it can be said that there has been a noticeable change in Malaysia's attitude towards India. But the elephant in the room, that is Zakir Naik, remains unaddressed. Naik is accused of terrorism, hate speech and money laundering but the man is still hiding in Malaysia. India sent a formal extradition request on May 14 this year. But the response from Malaysia has not been positive. So, going forward, if Yassin wants to continue improving ties with India. He must cooperate with New Delhi in Naik's extradition. If Malaysia agrees to send the Naik back to India, that will be a defining moment in the India-Malaysia ties.

How India-Malaysia ties have transformed since Mahathir's departure

In April, a&nbsp;US Commission had questioned religious freedom in India. A string of strong verbal rebuttals followed. However, India has now given its stern response.

No visas will be issued to the teams of the United States Commission on international religious freedom.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced the decision in a letter to a member of parliament.

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey had raised objections made by the US Commission. The commission had advised the US government to designate India as a country of particular concern.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-report-on-religious-freedom-blames-pakistan-for-targeted-killing-of-minorities-305123">Also read:&nbsp;US report on religious freedom blames Pakistan for targeted killing of minorities</a>

It was the first time since 2004 that the commission made such a recommendation. It said religious freedom in India had seen a drastic turn downward.

The report cited the controversies around the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), which led to Delhi riots in February. It even mentioned the scrapping of special status of Jammu and Kashmir.

The commission said religious minorities are under assault in India. It ranked India along with Pakistan, North Korea, China and Saudi Arabia.

The External Affairs minister has once again hit out at the commission.

In the letter, he said, "We do not see the locus standi of a foreign entity like UNCIRF to pronounce on the state of Indian citizen's constitutionally protected rights."

Jaishankar assured the member of parliament that his ministry will not accept any such external interference or pronouncements.

Since the release of the report, India has maintained that the commission was driven by its prejudices and biases, and has no locus standi whatsoever.

But India has not responded to the comments made by top official in the Trump administration.

Samuel Brownback, the ambassador at large for international religious freedom said, "The US is concerned about what's happening in India in terms of religious freedom."

The comments came hours after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo released the international religious freedom report for 2019.

In April, a US Commission had questioned religious freedom in India. A string of strong verbal rebuttals followed. However, India has now given its stern response.

In April, a US Commission had questioned religious freedom in India. A string of strong verbal rebuttals followed. However, India has now given its stern response. No visas will be issued to the teams of the United States Commission on international religious freedom. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced the decision in a letter to a member of parliament. BJP MP Nishikant Dubey had raised objections made by the US Commission. The commission had advised the US government to designate India as a country of particular concern. Also read: US report on religious freedom blames Pakistan for targeted killing of minorities It was the first time since 2004 that the commission made such a recommendation. It said religious freedom in India had seen a drastic turn downward. The report cited the controversies around the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), which led to Delhi riots in February. It even mentioned the scrapping of special status of Jammu and Kashmir. The commission said religious minorities are under assault in India. It ranked India along with Pakistan, North Korea, China and Saudi Arabia. The External Affairs minister has once again hit out at the commission. In the letter, he said, "We do not see the locus standi of a foreign entity like UNCIRF to pronounce on the state of Indian citizen's constitutionally protected rights." Jaishankar assured the member of parliament that his ministry will not accept any such external interference or pronouncements. Since the release of the report, India has maintained that the commission was driven by its prejudices and biases, and has no locus standi whatsoever. But India has not responded to the comments made by top official in the Trump administration. Samuel Brownback, the ambassador at large for international religious freedom said, "The US is concerned about what's happening in India in terms of religious freedom." The comments came hours after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo released the international religious freedom report for 2019.

No visas for US Commission on international religious freedom: India

Highlighting its "vibrant democratic tradition" India has dismissed the annual US State department's international religious freedom for 2019, released on Wednesday, that mentions the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), National Register of Citizens (NRC), and revocation of article 370 -- that gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "India’s vibrant democratic traditions and practices are evident to the world. The people and government of India are proud of our country’s democratic traditions."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-stimulus-package-is-as-large-as-gdp-of-pakistan-india-tells-imran-khan-after-he-offers-help-305154">Also read:&nbsp;Our stimulus package is as large as GDP of Pakistan: India tells Imran Khan after he offers 'help'</a>

Elaborating, "We have a robust public discourse in India and constitutionally mandated institutions that guarantee protection of religious freedom and rule of law."

Dismissing the report he said,"Our principled position remains that we see no locus standi for a foreign entity to pronounce on the state of our citizens’ constitutionally protected rights."

Earlier in the month of April, United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), a US&nbsp;federal government commission in its annual report had also criticized India on its religious freedom drawing a sharp reaction from New Delhi. Calling the body an "organisation of particular concern" after it listed India among "countries of particular concern" on the situation of minorities, MEA back then said, “we reject the observations on India in the USCIRF Annual Report. Its biased and tendentious comments against India are not new."

Highlighting its "vibrant democratic tradition" India has dismissed the annual US State department's international religious freedom for 2019, released on Wednesday, that mentions the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), National Register of Citizens (NRC), and revocation of article 370 -- that gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Highlighting its "vibrant democratic tradition" India has dismissed the annual US State department's international religious freedom for 2019, released on Wednesday, that mentions the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), National Register of Citizens (NRC), and revocation of article 370 -- that gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "India’s vibrant democratic traditions and practices are evident to the world. The people and government of India are proud of our country’s democratic traditions." Also read: Our stimulus package is as large as GDP of Pakistan: India tells Imran Khan after he offers 'help' Elaborating, "We have a robust public discourse in India and constitutionally mandated institutions that guarantee protection of religious freedom and rule of law." Dismissing the report he said,"Our principled position remains that we see no locus standi for a foreign entity to pronounce on the state of our citizens’ constitutionally protected rights." Earlier in the month of April, United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), a US federal government commission in its annual report had also criticized India on its religious freedom drawing a sharp reaction from New Delhi. Calling the body an "organisation of particular concern" after it listed India among "countries of particular concern" on the situation of minorities, MEA back then said, “we reject the observations on India in the USCIRF Annual Report. Its biased and tendentious comments against India are not new."

Highlighting vibrant democratic traditions, India dismisses US State dept report that mentions NRC/CAA

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) released its Annual Report 2020 on April 28, covering global trends in 2019. The USCIRF, it may be recalled, was established by the US Congress as a federal bipartisan entity in 1998 through the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA). It claims to be an “independent” body whose stated objective is to “monitor, analyse and report on threats to freedom of religion or belief abroad” and to make policy recommendations to the US President, the Secretary of State and Congress. The recommendations are supposedly &nbsp;“intended to deter religious persecution and promote freedom of religion or belief.”&nbsp;

The USCIRF has rarely been correct in its pronouncements on the status of religious freedoms in India. More often than not, the USCIRF reports on India have turned out to be less than objective and even malicious. Nevertheless, the 2020 Report cannot be ignored for more than one reason. For the Commission has not only levelled some baseless allegations against the government of a sovereign nation but has also crossed all lines in its attempt to damage India’s reputation as a secular country, while seeking to carve out a role for itself in managing the affairs of the pluralistic society in India. &nbsp;

In a completely erroneous, fallacious and even scandalous assessment of the freedom of religion in India, the USCIRF, in its Annual Report 2020, has recommended that India (together with 13 other countries such as North Korea, China, Pakistan etc.) be designated as a “country of particular concern” allegedly for “engaging in and tolerating systematic, on-going, and egregious religious freedom violations as defined by the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA)”&nbsp;

Further, the Commission has acted with audacity in recommending to the US President that stringent punitive actions be taken against those individual Government agencies/officials which/who in their assessment are responsible for the violation of freedom of religion in India. The recommended punitive actions include &nbsp; for instance targeted sanctions by freezing those individuals’ assets and/ or barring their entry into the United States. &nbsp;

The Commission has further recommended that engagement between the US Diplomatic Missions in India and India’s religious communities and law-enforcement agencies be strengthened and funds be allocated for civil society to strengthen their monitoring systems. In other words, the Commission is asking for the legitimisation of intended interference in the internal affairs of India in a socially hyper-sensitive area. In fact, the recommendation is nothing short of seeking a direct role in managing the affairs of India’s multi-lingual, multi-ethnic, multi-religious society. Before making such ridiculous recommendations, the Commission should have posed a question to itself: Will the Commission agree to the Indian Diplomatic Missions in the USA playing a role in curbing the rampant racial discrimination in the USA?&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a sweeping statement, the Commission has concluded that religious freedom in India experienced a “drastic turn downward in 2019”, when the &nbsp;“religious minorities found themselves under increasing assault”. It has accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) of misusing its strengthened majority in Parliament (the following re-election in May 2019) to institute national-level policies, which allegedly violate religious freedom across India, especially for Muslims. It goes on to allege that “the national government allowed violence against minorities and their houses of worship to continue with impunity, and also engaged in and tolerated hate speech and incitement to violence”. The observation is a blatantly mischievous attempt to create a religion-based divide in Indian society, where the overwhelming opinion is in favour of unity in diversity.&nbsp;

In support of its conclusions, the Commission has cited the abrogation of Article 370 of India’s Constitution and &nbsp;Citizenship &nbsp;Amendment Act in 2019 and continued enforcement of the existing laws on cow slaughter, religious conversions, and even the Supreme &nbsp;Court’s ruling on Babri Masjid. This clearly reflects an utter lack of understanding of the social fabric of India, the benign intentions behind the Indian Government’s decisions and the independence of the judiciary in India. &nbsp;

India is the largest functioning democracy in the world and its Constitution is explicit and unambiguous in guaranteeing its citizens the freedom not only to pursue but also preach the religion of their choice. There are adequate institutional and legal protections against discrimination on the basis of religion.&nbsp;

India’s democratic and secular credentials are well established and India owes no explanation, least to ill-informed organisations such as USCIRF. At the same time, USCIRF deserves a befitting response. In a quick rebuttal, the official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs therefore justifiably rejected the Commission’s observations on India. While recalling that the Commission’s “biased and tendentious” comments against India were not new, he said that “on this occasion, its misrepresentation has reached new levels” and went on to add in a sarcastically retaliatory tone that “We regard it (the Commission) as an organization of particular concern and will treat it accordingly.”&nbsp;

It is worth noting that the Chapter on India in the Annual Report did not enjoy full consensus. Two out of nine Members namely Commissioner Gary L. Bauer and Commissioner Tenzin Dorjee have recorded their explicit disagreement with fellow Commissioners over the recommendation that India be designated as a “country of particular concern”; they have given several valid arguments to assert that India cannot be equated with China and North Korea whom they have described as “rogue nations and authoritarian regimes”. Although Commissioner Johnnie Moore has not registered his dissent, he has made some very laudatory observations describing India, for instance, as “the largest democracy, governed by a pristine Constitution”, and a “great nation” that is the “very definition of diverse” &nbsp;

Relations between India and the USA have seen upward swing in the past two decades, and have now developed into a "global strategic partnership", based on shared democratic values and increasing convergence of interests on bilateral, regional and global issues. The canvas of relations is so wide that isolated adverse comments from ill-informed organisations such as USCIRF are very unlikely to cause any dent to the strong relationship. Nevertheless, it would be prudent on the part of the US President and US Administration to be seen as ignoring the Report. &nbsp;At the same time, the Commission must be reminded to be fair and objective in its assessment of the conduct of sovereign nations, and learn a lesson from India which refrains from censuring other countries including the USA whose track-record in matters of racial discrimination is questionable. &nbsp;

&nbsp;(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) released its Annual Report 2020 on April 28, covering global trends in 2019. The USCIRF, it may be recalled, was established by the US Congress as a federal bipartisan entity in 1998 through the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA).

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) released its Annual Report 2020 on April 28, covering global trends in 2019. The USCIRF, it may be recalled, was established by the US Congress as a federal bipartisan entity in 1998 through the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA). It claims to be an “independent” body whose stated objective is to “monitor, analyse and report on threats to freedom of religion or belief abroad” and to make policy recommendations to the US President, the Secretary of State and Congress. The recommendations are supposedly “intended to deter religious persecution and promote freedom of religion or belief.” The USCIRF has rarely been correct in its pronouncements on the status of religious freedoms in India. More often than not, the USCIRF reports on India have turned out to be less than objective and even malicious. Nevertheless, the 2020 Report cannot be ignored for more than one reason. For the Commission has not only levelled some baseless allegations against the government of a sovereign nation but has also crossed all lines in its attempt to damage India’s reputation as a secular country, while seeking to carve out a role for itself in managing the affairs of the pluralistic society in India. In a completely erroneous, fallacious and even scandalous assessment of the freedom of religion in India, the USCIRF, in its Annual Report 2020, has recommended that India (together with 13 other countries such as North Korea, China, Pakistan etc.) be designated as a “country of particular concern” allegedly for “engaging in and tolerating systematic, on-going, and egregious religious freedom violations as defined by the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA)” Further, the Commission has acted with audacity in recommending to the US President that stringent punitive actions be taken against those individual Government agencies/officials which/who in their assessment are responsible for the violation of freedom of religion in India. The recommended punitive actions include for instance targeted sanctions by freezing those individuals’ assets and/ or barring their entry into the United States. The Commission has further recommended that engagement between the US Diplomatic Missions in India and India’s religious communities and law-enforcement agencies be strengthened and funds be allocated for civil society to strengthen their monitoring systems. In other words, the Commission is asking for the legitimisation of intended interference in the internal affairs of India in a socially hyper-sensitive area. In fact, the recommendation is nothing short of seeking a direct role in managing the affairs of India’s multi-lingual, multi-ethnic, multi-religious society. Before making such ridiculous recommendations, the Commission should have posed a question to itself: Will the Commission agree to the Indian Diplomatic Missions in the USA playing a role in curbing the rampant racial discrimination in the USA? In a sweeping statement, the Commission has concluded that religious freedom in India experienced a “drastic turn downward in 2019”, when the “religious minorities found themselves under increasing assault”. It has accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) of misusing its strengthened majority in Parliament (the following re-election in May 2019) to institute national-level policies, which allegedly violate religious freedom across India, especially for Muslims. It goes on to allege that “the national government allowed violence against minorities and their houses of worship to continue with impunity, and also engaged in and tolerated hate speech and incitement to violence”. The observation is a blatantly mischievous attempt to create a religion-based divide in Indian society, where the overwhelming opinion is in favour of unity in diversity. In support of its conclusions, the Commission has cited the abrogation of Article 370 of India’s Constitution and Citizenship Amendment Act in 2019 and continued enforcement of the existing laws on cow slaughter, religious conversions, and even the Supreme Court’s ruling on Babri Masjid. This clearly reflects an utter lack of understanding of the social fabric of India, the benign intentions behind the Indian Government’s decisions and the independence of the judiciary in India. India is the largest functioning democracy in the world and its Constitution is explicit and unambiguous in guaranteeing its citizens the freedom not only to pursue but also preach the religion of their choice. There are adequate institutional and legal protections against discrimination on the basis of religion. India’s democratic and secular credentials are well established and India owes no explanation, least to ill-informed organisations such as USCIRF. At the same time, USCIRF deserves a befitting response. In a quick rebuttal, the official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs therefore justifiably rejected the Commission’s observations on India. While recalling that the Commission’s “biased and tendentious” comments against India were not new, he said that “on this occasion, its misrepresentation has reached new levels” and went on to add in a sarcastically retaliatory tone that “We regard it (the Commission) as an organization of particular concern and will treat it accordingly.” It is worth noting that the Chapter on India in the Annual Report did not enjoy full consensus. Two out of nine Members namely Commissioner Gary L. Bauer and Commissioner Tenzin Dorjee have recorded their explicit disagreement with fellow Commissioners over the recommendation that India be designated as a “country of particular concern”; they have given several valid arguments to assert that India cannot be equated with China and North Korea whom they have described as “rogue nations and authoritarian regimes”. Although Commissioner Johnnie Moore has not registered his dissent, he has made some very laudatory observations describing India, for instance, as “the largest democracy, governed by a pristine Constitution”, and a “great nation” that is the “very definition of diverse” Relations between India and the USA have seen upward swing in the past two decades, and have now developed into a "global strategic partnership", based on shared democratic values and increasing convergence of interests on bilateral, regional and global issues. The canvas of relations is so wide that isolated adverse comments from ill-informed organisations such as USCIRF are very unlikely to cause any dent to the strong relationship. Nevertheless, it would be prudent on the part of the US President and US Administration to be seen as ignoring the Report. At the same time, the Commission must be reminded to be fair and objective in its assessment of the conduct of sovereign nations, and learn a lesson from India which refrains from censuring other countries including the USA whose track-record in matters of racial discrimination is questionable. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

USCIRF’s futile attempt to damage India’s secular credentials

The government has briefed the international community on the abrogation of Article 370 provisions in Jammu and Kashmir and the amended citizenship law, and these countries have shown an understanding of India's position, Rajya Sabha was informed on Thursday. 
 
In a written reply to a question, Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said as a result of government's efforts, countries have shown a better understanding that matters related to Jammu &amp; Kashmir are internal to India and that Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism has been posing a grave threat and affecting the lives of Indians.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/caa-does-not-violate-fundamental-rights-centre-tells-supreme-court-286974" hreflang="en">CAA does not violate fundamental rights, Centre tells Supreme Court</a> 
&nbsp; 
Some countries have also called on Pakistan not to allow its territories to be used for terrorism in any manner, he said. 
 
"The government has proactively reached out and briefed the members of the international community on the facts relating to Jammu and Kashmir and also shared perspectives and objectives of the Citizenship Amendment Act 2019," Muraleedharan said.

Also read:<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/delhi-police-detains-couple-linked-to-isis-for-instigating-anti-caa-protests-285117">&nbsp;Delhi Police detains couple linked to ISIS for instigating Anti-CAA protests</a> 
 
Interlocutors also understand the Indian position that the Citizenship Amendment Act 2019 is an affirmative action meant to address the long-standing predicament of the vulnerable sections living in India, he said. 
 
They also understand that it does not impact in any manner the status of any citizen of India or deprive any Indian of any faith of her or his citizenship, Muraleedharan said. 
 
"These countries know that Indian democratic practices and institutions are equipped to deal with issues that may arise in the implementation of the decisions taken by the Indian Parliament," he said.

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Muraleedhran also hit out at the spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights for his remarks in December on the CAA. 
 
The United Nations' human rights body had voiced concern over India's new citizenship law, terming it "fundamentally discriminatory" in nature. 
 
"Government immediately registered its protest with the office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and clearly conveyed that the legislation is a humanitarian measure and is in line with India's international human rights obligations," Muraleedharan said. 
 
He said the government completely and unequivocally rejected any efforts to internationalise the issues which are internal to India, in particular on laws passed by Parliament of a sovereign nation. 
 
The government has also taken note of some statements made by China, Malaysia and Turkey on the issue of Jammu &amp; Kashmir, he said. 
 
"It has been conveyed that India expects these countries to not comment on the internal affairs of India; respect India's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and develop a proper understanding of the issue," Muraleedharan said.

The government has briefed the international community on the abrogation of Article 370 provisions in Jammu and Kashmir and the amended citizenship law, and these countries have shown an understanding of India's position, Rajya Sabha was informed on Thursday.

The government has briefed the international community on the abrogation of Article 370 provisions in Jammu and Kashmir and the amended citizenship law, and these countries have shown an understanding of India's position, Rajya Sabha was informed on Thursday. In a written reply to a question, Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said as a result of government's efforts, countries have shown a better understanding that matters related to Jammu & Kashmir are internal to India and that Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism has been posing a grave threat and affecting the lives of Indians. Also read: CAA does not violate fundamental rights, Centre tells Supreme Court Some countries have also called on Pakistan not to allow its territories to be used for terrorism in any manner, he said. "The government has proactively reached out and briefed the members of the international community on the facts relating to Jammu and Kashmir and also shared perspectives and objectives of the Citizenship Amendment Act 2019," Muraleedharan said. Also read: Delhi Police detains couple linked to ISIS for instigating Anti-CAA protests Interlocutors also understand the Indian position that the Citizenship Amendment Act 2019 is an affirmative action meant to address the long-standing predicament of the vulnerable sections living in India, he said. They also understand that it does not impact in any manner the status of any citizen of India or deprive any Indian of any faith of her or his citizenship, Muraleedharan said. "These countries know that Indian democratic practices and institutions are equipped to deal with issues that may arise in the implementation of the decisions taken by the Indian Parliament," he said. Muraleedhran also hit out at the spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights for his remarks in December on the CAA. The United Nations' human rights body had voiced concern over India's new citizenship law, terming it "fundamentally discriminatory" in nature. "Government immediately registered its protest with the office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and clearly conveyed that the legislation is a humanitarian measure and is in line with India's international human rights obligations," Muraleedharan said. He said the government completely and unequivocally rejected any efforts to internationalise the issues which are internal to India, in particular on laws passed by Parliament of a sovereign nation. The government has also taken note of some statements made by China, Malaysia and Turkey on the issue of Jammu & Kashmir, he said. "It has been conveyed that India expects these countries to not comment on the internal affairs of India; respect India's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and develop a proper understanding of the issue," Muraleedharan said.

Briefed international community on J&K, CAA; countries have shown understanding: Govt

The Centre Tuesday told the Supreme Court that the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019 does not violate any fundamental right. The central government, in its 129-page affidavit in response to the pleas challenging the constitutional validity of CAA, termed the legislation legal and asserted that there was no question of it violating constitutional morality.

It also said CAA does not confer any arbitrary and unguided powers on the executive as the citizenship to the persecuted minorities of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh would be granted in a manner as specified under the law governing grant of citizenship. The affidavit has been filed by BC Joshi, Director in the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The Supreme Court on December 18 last year had decided to examine the constitutional validity of the CAA but had refused to stay its operation. The newly amended law seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Christian, Jain and Parsi communities who came to the country from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan on or before December 31, 2014.

The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), one of the petitioners out of over 100 pleas which have challenged the CAA, has said in its plea that it violates the fundamental Right to Equality and intends to grant citizenship to a section of illegal immigrants by making an exclusion on the basis of religion.

A bench, comprising Chief Justice S A Bobde and Justices B R Gavai and Surya Kant, had earlier issued notice to the Centre and sought its response on the batch of pleas, including those filed by the IUML and Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, challenging the CAA.

The bench had also agreed to the submission of lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay that common people should be made aware about the aim, objects and the contents of the CAA and had asked Attorney General K K Venugopal, representing the Centre, to consider using audio-visual medium to make citizens aware of the legislation.

Venugopal had agreed to the suggestion and said the needful would be done by the government.

Parliament had cleared the Act, which grants citizenship rights to religious minorities such as Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, Parsis, Jains and Buddhists, who have come to India on or before December 31, 2014. President Ram Nath Kovind gave assent to the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 on December 12 last year, turning it into an Act.

The plea by IUML, filed through advocate Pallavi Pratap, had sought an interim stay on the operation of CAB and the Foreigner Amendment (Order), 2015 and Passport (Entry Into Rules), Amendment Rules, 2015. The petition has alleged that the government’s CAB was against the basic structure of the Constitution and intended to explicitly discriminate against Muslims as the Act extended benefits only to Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians.

The plea filed by Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, has said that the Act is a “brazen attack” on core fundamental rights envisaged under the Constitution and treats “equals as unequal”. In his petition, Ramesh has said that substantial questions of law, including whether religion can be a factor to either acquire or deny citizenship in India, arises for consideration of the court as it is a “patently unconstitutional” amendment to the Citizenship Act, 1955.

“The impugned Act creates two classifications, viz, classification on basis of religion and the classification on the basis of geography and both the classifications are completely unreasonable and share no rational nexus to the object of the impugned Act i.e., to provide shelter, safety and citizenship to communities who in their native country are facing persecution on grounds of religion,” the plea has said.

Several petitions have been filed challenging the constitutional validity of the CAA including by RJD leader Manoj Jha, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi. Other petitioners include Muslim body Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, All Assam Students Union (AASU), Peace Party, CPI, NGOs ‘Rihai Manch’ and Citizens Against Hate, advocate M L Sharma, and law students have also approached the apex court challenging the Act.

The Centre Tuesday told the Supreme Court that the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019 does not violate any fundamental right. The central government, in its 129-page affidavit in response to the pleas challenging the constitutional validity of CAA, termed the legislation legal and asserted that there was no question of it violating constitutional morality.

The Centre Tuesday told the Supreme Court that the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019 does not violate any fundamental right. The central government, in its 129-page affidavit in response to the pleas challenging the constitutional validity of CAA, termed the legislation legal and asserted that there was no question of it violating constitutional morality. It also said CAA does not confer any arbitrary and unguided powers on the executive as the citizenship to the persecuted minorities of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh would be granted in a manner as specified under the law governing grant of citizenship. The affidavit has been filed by BC Joshi, Director in the Ministry of Home Affairs. The Supreme Court on December 18 last year had decided to examine the constitutional validity of the CAA but had refused to stay its operation. The newly amended law seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Christian, Jain and Parsi communities who came to the country from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan on or before December 31, 2014. The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), one of the petitioners out of over 100 pleas which have challenged the CAA, has said in its plea that it violates the fundamental Right to Equality and intends to grant citizenship to a section of illegal immigrants by making an exclusion on the basis of religion. A bench, comprising Chief Justice S A Bobde and Justices B R Gavai and Surya Kant, had earlier issued notice to the Centre and sought its response on the batch of pleas, including those filed by the IUML and Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, challenging the CAA. The bench had also agreed to the submission of lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay that common people should be made aware about the aim, objects and the contents of the CAA and had asked Attorney General K K Venugopal, representing the Centre, to consider using audio-visual medium to make citizens aware of the legislation. Venugopal had agreed to the suggestion and said the needful would be done by the government. Parliament had cleared the Act, which grants citizenship rights to religious minorities such as Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, Parsis, Jains and Buddhists, who have come to India on or before December 31, 2014. President Ram Nath Kovind gave assent to the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 on December 12 last year, turning it into an Act. The plea by IUML, filed through advocate Pallavi Pratap, had sought an interim stay on the operation of CAB and the Foreigner Amendment (Order), 2015 and Passport (Entry Into Rules), Amendment Rules, 2015. The petition has alleged that the government’s CAB was against the basic structure of the Constitution and intended to explicitly discriminate against Muslims as the Act extended benefits only to Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians. The plea filed by Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, has said that the Act is a “brazen attack” on core fundamental rights envisaged under the Constitution and treats “equals as unequal”. In his petition, Ramesh has said that substantial questions of law, including whether religion can be a factor to either acquire or deny citizenship in India, arises for consideration of the court as it is a “patently unconstitutional” amendment to the Citizenship Act, 1955. “The impugned Act creates two classifications, viz, classification on basis of religion and the classification on the basis of geography and both the classifications are completely unreasonable and share no rational nexus to the object of the impugned Act i.e., to provide shelter, safety and citizenship to communities who in their native country are facing persecution on grounds of religion,” the plea has said. Several petitions have been filed challenging the constitutional validity of the CAA including by RJD leader Manoj Jha, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi. Other petitioners include Muslim body Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, All Assam Students Union (AASU), Peace Party, CPI, NGOs ‘Rihai Manch’ and Citizens Against Hate, advocate M L Sharma, and law students have also approached the apex court challenging the Act.

CAA does not violate fundamental rights, Centre tells Supreme Court

The violence in Delhi in the garb of protest against Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) reminds one of Thomas Hobbes a 17th-century philosopher who had analysed that society has a drive towards chaos and destruction. 
 
However, many studies and analysis on crowd behaviour state that whenever people indulge in rioting, their collective behaviour is never mindless. It may often be criminal, but it is structured and coherent with meaning and conscious intent. To address the causes of such violence, we need to understand that there are actually important boundaries and limits that the crowd behaviour works on during riots which not only relate to what to do and what not, but also on who is going to be the target of such violence to leave a maximum impact.

Research and ‘Modern Crowd Theory’ suggest that these behavioural limits of crowd action relate in important ways to the limits of social identification.&nbsp;

Since the day the protest against Citizenship Amendment Act started at Shaheen Bagh there was extreme anger and hatred exhibited against the Central government. The announcements and the atmosphere at Shaheen Bagh was brimming with vitriolic comments against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shag and the Act. The Delhi Police being the force of central government was wrongly seen as an oppressor, hence, the force was the first to be challenged by protesters at Shaheen Bagh and later by mobs in the North-East Delhi.

It was the domino effect of 73 days of protests. The continuous verbal violence through inflammatory provocative speeches were enough to disturb communal harmony.

It has been observed in various studies on riots that 'Behavioural Contagion'&nbsp;also play a role in which the rioters are not seen as or behaving mindlessly, rather a 'group mind'&nbsp;works for them. According to this line of thinking, the behaviour is spread via a process of 'contagion', transmitted automatically from one person to another.

Throwing stones at cops become normative and widespread – 'a few bricks and stone went and then people closed the road and everybody starts doing it'.

Delhi police which was on the streets to control the violent mob, equipped with protective gear and only lathis, became the first target. The first day of violence saw the deputy commissioner of police being injured. There were several incidents where cops were surrounded, beaten and shot at by the rioters. Efforts were made to even kill them and their vehicles were also not spared. Acid was also thrown on the paramilitary forces.

Even firefighters were not spared and they got injured due to stone-pelting while five fire tenders were damaged, according to the official reports.

And after almost 72 hours of unrest that killed more than three dozen people and injured over 200, Delhi Police filed 18 FIRs and have arrested more than 100 persons in connection with the violence.

Normalcy seems to be returning with the deployment of 45 companies of paramilitary forces to contain violence and restore law and order situation.

The situation must be contained before it becomes Hobbesian Dystopia, where pre-emptive strikes occur between two communities due to an imaginative state of injustice.&nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

The violence in Delhi in the garb of protest against Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) reminds one of Thomas Hobbes a 17th-century philosopher who had analysed that society has a drive towards chaos and destruction.

The violence in Delhi in the garb of protest against Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) reminds one of Thomas Hobbes a 17th-century philosopher who had analysed that society has a drive towards chaos and destruction. However, many studies and analysis on crowd behaviour state that whenever people indulge in rioting, their collective behaviour is never mindless. It may often be criminal, but it is structured and coherent with meaning and conscious intent. To address the causes of such violence, we need to understand that there are actually important boundaries and limits that the crowd behaviour works on during riots which not only relate to what to do and what not, but also on who is going to be the target of such violence to leave a maximum impact. Research and ‘Modern Crowd Theory’ suggest that these behavioural limits of crowd action relate in important ways to the limits of social identification. Since the day the protest against Citizenship Amendment Act started at Shaheen Bagh there was extreme anger and hatred exhibited against the Central government. The announcements and the atmosphere at Shaheen Bagh was brimming with vitriolic comments against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shag and the Act. The Delhi Police being the force of central government was wrongly seen as an oppressor, hence, the force was the first to be challenged by protesters at Shaheen Bagh and later by mobs in the North-East Delhi. It was the domino effect of 73 days of protests. The continuous verbal violence through inflammatory provocative speeches were enough to disturb communal harmony. It has been observed in various studies on riots that 'Behavioural Contagion' also play a role in which the rioters are not seen as or behaving mindlessly, rather a 'group mind' works for them. According to this line of thinking, the behaviour is spread via a process of 'contagion', transmitted automatically from one person to another. Throwing stones at cops become normative and widespread – 'a few bricks and stone went and then people closed the road and everybody starts doing it'. Delhi police which was on the streets to control the violent mob, equipped with protective gear and only lathis, became the first target. The first day of violence saw the deputy commissioner of police being injured. There were several incidents where cops were surrounded, beaten and shot at by the rioters. Efforts were made to even kill them and their vehicles were also not spared. Acid was also thrown on the paramilitary forces. Even firefighters were not spared and they got injured due to stone-pelting while five fire tenders were damaged, according to the official reports. And after almost 72 hours of unrest that killed more than three dozen people and injured over 200, Delhi Police filed 18 FIRs and have arrested more than 100 persons in connection with the violence. Normalcy seems to be returning with the deployment of 45 companies of paramilitary forces to contain violence and restore law and order situation. The situation must be contained before it becomes Hobbesian Dystopia, where pre-emptive strikes occur between two communities due to an imaginative state of injustice. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and Hobbesian dystopia

A couple linked to the Islamic State's Khorasan module was on Sunday detained from South Delhi's Jamia Nagar for instigating anti-CAA riots in the national capital, police said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/madras-high-court-directs-tn-dgp-to-take-into-custody-proanti-caa-protestors-who-agitate-without-permission-284489">Madras High Court directs TN DGP to take into custody pro/anti CAA protestors who agitate without permission</a>

They have been identified as Jahanjeb Sami and his wife Hina Bashir Beg, said Pramod Singh Kushwah, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Cell).

Also see:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/expect-shaheen-bagh-protesters-to-come-up-with-amicable-solutions-says-sanjay-hegde-284220">&nbsp;Expect Shaheen Bagh protesters to come up with amicable solutions, says Sanjay Hegde</a>

"They were involved in instigating anti-Citizenship (Amendment) Act protests," he said.

A couple linked to the Islamic State's Khorasan module was on Sunday detained from South Delhi's Jamia Nagar for instigating anti-CAA riots in the national capital, police said.

A couple linked to the Islamic State's Khorasan module was on Sunday detained from South Delhi's Jamia Nagar for instigating anti-CAA riots in the national capital, police said. Also read: Madras High Court directs TN DGP to take into custody pro/anti CAA protestors who agitate without permission They have been identified as Jahanjeb Sami and his wife Hina Bashir Beg, said Pramod Singh Kushwah, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Cell). Also see: Expect Shaheen Bagh protesters to come up with amicable solutions, says Sanjay Hegde "They were involved in instigating anti-Citizenship (Amendment) Act protests," he said.

Delhi Police detains couple linked to ISIS for instigating Anti-CAA protests

A 35-year-old Bangladeshi national was arrested for illegal stay from Budhwar Peth area of Maharashtra's Pune city, police said on Friday.

Jamal alias Shakib Suleman Mulla has allegedly been living in Pune illegally and owned a 'paan' shop in Budhwar Peth area, an official from the special branch of Pune police said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assams-nrc-will-not-impact-bangladesh-says-indias-foreign-secretary-harsh-vardhan-shringla-283845">Assam's NRC will not impact Bangladesh, says India's foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla</a>

On interrogation, Mulla revealed that he is a Bangladeshi national and had entered India illegally 16 years ago, the official said.

While the accused did not possess a valid passport or visa, a fake Aadhar card and PAN card were recovered from his possession, the official said.

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A case has been registered against the accused under relevant sections of the Foreigners Act and the Passport (Entry Into India) Rules, 1950 at Faras Khana police station.

A 35-year-old Bangladeshi national was arrested for illegal stay from Budhwar Peth area of Maharashtra's Pune city, police said on Friday. Jamal alias Shakib Suleman Mulla has allegedly been living in Pune illegally and owned a 'paan' shop in Budhwar Peth area, an official from the special branch of Pune police said.

A 35-year-old Bangladeshi national was arrested for illegal stay from Budhwar Peth area of Maharashtra's Pune city, police said on Friday. Jamal alias Shakib Suleman Mulla has allegedly been living in Pune illegally and owned a 'paan' shop in Budhwar Peth area, an official from the special branch of Pune police said. Also read: Assam's NRC will not impact Bangladesh, says India's foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla On interrogation, Mulla revealed that he is a Bangladeshi national and had entered India illegally 16 years ago, the official said. While the accused did not possess a valid passport or visa, a fake Aadhar card and PAN card were recovered from his possession, the official said. Watch: × A case has been registered against the accused under relevant sections of the Foreigners Act and the Passport (Entry Into India) Rules, 1950 at Faras Khana police station.

Bangladeshi national arrested in Pune for illegal stay

Gravitas: UN rights body moves Supreme Court on CAA The UNHRC has filed an intervention application in the Supreme Court against the Citizenship Amendment Act. In response, India has said that the CAA is India's internal issue. This report has the details.

Gravitas: UN rights body moves Supreme Court on CAA

India defended its contentious citizenship law as an internal issue Tuesday as the UN rights chief sought to join efforts challenging the legislation in the country's highest court.

The law, which makes it easier for religious minorities from three neighbouring countries to get Indian citizenship but not if they are Muslim, was the spark for last week's deadly riots in New Delhi.&nbsp;

More than 40 people were killed and hundreds wounded in the worst sectarian violence to rock the capital in decades.&nbsp;

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-riots-shahrukh-who-pointed-gun-at-constable-nabbed-in-uttar-pradesh-283924"> Delhi riots: Shahrukh who pointed gun at constable nabbed in Uttar Pradesh</a>

That followed street demonstrations that have occasionally turned deadly across the Hindu-majority country since the law was approved by parliament in December.

"The Citizenship Amendment Act is an internal matter of India and concerns the sovereign right of the Indian parliament to make laws," foreign ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar said.

"We strongly believe that no foreign party has any locus standi on issues pertaining to India's sovereignty."

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/citizenship-of-any-muslim-or-minority-will-not-be-taken-away-through-caa-amit-shah-reiterates-in-odisha-283349">Citizenship of any Muslim or minority will not be taken away through CAA: Amit Shah reiterates in Odisha</a>

Dozens of petitions filed in the Supreme Court, including by social rights activists and political parties, are challenging the law's constitutionality.&nbsp;

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet informed India on Monday of its application to be a third party in one petition brought by a former civil servant, Kumar said.

The court is hearing all the petitions together.

Kumar said the government was confident in the legality of the law, which was approved by parliament in December.&nbsp;

The UN application came as the government Tuesday summoned the Iranian ambassador over tweets by Foreign Minister Javad Zarif condemning the "wave of organized violence against Indian Muslims" in the Delhi riots.

Kumar said a "strong protest was lodged against the unwarranted remarks", adding that they were "not acceptable".

India defended its contentious citizenship law as an internal issue Tuesday as the UN rights chief sought to join efforts challenging the legislation in the country's highest court.

India defended its contentious citizenship law as an internal issue Tuesday as the UN rights chief sought to join efforts challenging the legislation in the country's highest court. The law, which makes it easier for religious minorities from three neighbouring countries to get Indian citizenship but not if they are Muslim, was the spark for last week's deadly riots in New Delhi. More than 40 people were killed and hundreds wounded in the worst sectarian violence to rock the capital in decades. Also read: Delhi riots: Shahrukh who pointed gun at constable nabbed in Uttar Pradesh That followed street demonstrations that have occasionally turned deadly across the Hindu-majority country since the law was approved by parliament in December. "The Citizenship Amendment Act is an internal matter of India and concerns the sovereign right of the Indian parliament to make laws," foreign ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar said. "We strongly believe that no foreign party has any locus standi on issues pertaining to India's sovereignty." Also see: Citizenship of any Muslim or minority will not be taken away through CAA: Amit Shah reiterates in Odisha Dozens of petitions filed in the Supreme Court, including by social rights activists and political parties, are challenging the law's constitutionality. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet informed India on Monday of its application to be a third party in one petition brought by a former civil servant, Kumar said. The court is hearing all the petitions together. Kumar said the government was confident in the legality of the law, which was approved by parliament in December. The UN application came as the government Tuesday summoned the Iranian ambassador over tweets by Foreign Minister Javad Zarif condemning the "wave of organized violence against Indian Muslims" in the Delhi riots. Kumar said a "strong protest was lodged against the unwarranted remarks", adding that they were "not acceptable".

India defends citizenship law as UN rights Chief joins legal challenge

The Border Security Force on Monday handed over a cheque of Rs 10 lakh to its jawan Mohammed Anees after his house in northeast Delhi was vandalized and burnt by rioters.

The border guarding force has also pledged to rebuild the house of the jawan and hand it over to him as a 'wedding gift', as he is scheduled to get married soon, a Border Security Force (BSF) spokesperson said.

The engineering and technical team of the force is already on job, the spokesperson said.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-violence-tension-persists-in-riot-hit-areas-four-more-bodies-fished-out-from-drains-283598"> Delhi violence: Tension persists in riot-hit areas, four more bodies fished out from drains&nbsp;</a>

"Constable Anees along with his father Mohammed Munis met Inspector General D K Upadhyay at the force headquarters here at Lodhi Road.

The jawan was handed over a cheque of Rs 10 lakh," the spokesperson added.

Another senior official said the welfare funds of the force were utilized and other resources were mobilized to assist their 29-year-old colleague whose house in Khajuri Khas area of the national capital was badly burnt and vandalized by rioting mobs when communal violence engulfed parts of northeast Delhi last week.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/what-role-do-demographics-play-in-orchestrating-structural-violence-283677">What role do demographics play in orchestrating structural violence?</a>

The riots in areas like Jaffrabad, Maujpur, Gokalpuri, Khajuri Khas, Bhajanpur and few others have leftover 40 people dead and more than 200 injured.

Anees is posted at a BSF camp in Radhabari near West Bengal's Siliguri after he recently completed a stint in the anti-Naxal operations grid in Odisha.

The BSF has also decided to post to him to a unit in the national capital region so that he can take care of his family, officials had said.

The BSF, with about 2.5 lakh personnel in its ranks, is primarily mandated to guard Indian fronts with Pakistan and Bangladesh apart from rendering a variety of roles in the internal security domain of the country.

&nbsp;

The Border Security Force on Monday handed over a cheque of Rs 10 lakh to its jawan Mohammed Anees after his house in northeast Delhi was vandalized and burnt by rioters.

The Border Security Force on Monday handed over a cheque of Rs 10 lakh to its jawan Mohammed Anees after his house in northeast Delhi was vandalized and burnt by rioters. The border guarding force has also pledged to rebuild the house of the jawan and hand it over to him as a 'wedding gift', as he is scheduled to get married soon, a Border Security Force (BSF) spokesperson said. The engineering and technical team of the force is already on job, the spokesperson said. Also read: Delhi violence: Tension persists in riot-hit areas, four more bodies fished out from drains "Constable Anees along with his father Mohammed Munis met Inspector General D K Upadhyay at the force headquarters here at Lodhi Road. The jawan was handed over a cheque of Rs 10 lakh," the spokesperson added. Another senior official said the welfare funds of the force were utilized and other resources were mobilized to assist their 29-year-old colleague whose house in Khajuri Khas area of the national capital was badly burnt and vandalized by rioting mobs when communal violence engulfed parts of northeast Delhi last week. Also see: What role do demographics play in orchestrating structural violence? The riots in areas like Jaffrabad, Maujpur, Gokalpuri, Khajuri Khas, Bhajanpur and few others have leftover 40 people dead and more than 200 injured. Anees is posted at a BSF camp in Radhabari near West Bengal's Siliguri after he recently completed a stint in the anti-Naxal operations grid in Odisha. The BSF has also decided to post to him to a unit in the national capital region so that he can take care of his family, officials had said. The BSF, with about 2.5 lakh personnel in its ranks, is primarily mandated to guard Indian fronts with Pakistan and Bangladesh apart from rendering a variety of roles in the internal security domain of the country.

BSF hands over Rs 10L cheque to jawan whose house was burnt in Delhi riots

The death toll in violence in the Indian capital Delhi has risen to 32. The Anti-CAA protests have now turned into violent riots. The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appealed to maintain harmony and peace.

India: Death toll in Delhi violence rises to 32

As many as 32&nbsp;people have lost their lives and over 200 are injured in the incidents of violence after rival groups clashed over the Citizenship Amendment Act in Northeast Delhi.

Yesterday, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval said that the situation is totally under control as he visited the riot-affected areas of Delhi's northeast district.

<img alt="Ajit Doval" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="879147b2-c40b-48be-acd3-2481de96c5b0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ajit-doval.jpg" />

National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval during his visit to the violence-hit area of Northeast Delhi on Wednesday. (ANI Photo)

<img alt="Delhi-riots" src="http://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%286%29_27.jpg" />

A police vehicle moves past burning debris that was set on fire by demonstrators. (Reuters Photo)

"Death toll has increased to 30 at the hospital," said Sunil Kumar Gautam, Medical Superintendent, Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital news agency ANI reported.

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Several WhatsApp groups, social media posts and the role of people from outside Delhi is under the scanner in connection with the incidents of violence, ANI reported citing sources.

Meanwhile, in the wake of the violence, the United States embassy issued an advisory in which it told its citizens to "exercise caution" and avoid all-violence affected areas.

"It is important that you monitor local media outlets for updates on demonstrations, road and Metro closures, and possible curfews. The Government of India-imposed law that prohibits political gatherings of four or more people – known as Section 144 – remains in effect in certain areas," the advisory read.

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As many as 32 people have lost their lives and over 200 are injured in the incidents of violence after rival groups clashed over the Citizenship Amendment Act in Northeast Delhi.

As many as 32 people have lost their lives and over 200 are injured in the incidents of violence after rival groups clashed over the Citizenship Amendment Act in Northeast Delhi. Yesterday, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval said that the situation is totally under control as he visited the riot-affected areas of Delhi's northeast district. National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval during his visit to the violence-hit area of Northeast Delhi on Wednesday. (ANI Photo) A police vehicle moves past burning debris that was set on fire by demonstrators. (Reuters Photo) "Death toll has increased to 30 at the hospital," said Sunil Kumar Gautam, Medical Superintendent, Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital news agency ANI reported. Several WhatsApp groups, social media posts and the role of people from outside Delhi is under the scanner in connection with the incidents of violence, ANI reported citing sources. Meanwhile, in the wake of the violence, the United States embassy issued an advisory in which it told its citizens to "exercise caution" and avoid all-violence affected areas. "It is important that you monitor local media outlets for updates on demonstrations, road and Metro closures, and possible curfews. The Government of India-imposed law that prohibits political gatherings of four or more people – known as Section 144 – remains in effect in certain areas," the advisory read. Security Alert - Demonstrations in Northeast Delhi: https://t.co/e48NNK2xk6 — U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) February 26, 2020 ×

Delhi riots: Death toll reaches 32; WhatsApp groups under scanner

Today was the business end of Donald Trump's visit to India. After holding talks with PM Modi, the US President took questions from the press - giving his take on the trade negotiations and even the Citizenship Amendment Law. This report gets you the highlights.

Gravitas: Trump's visit to India, highlights from Day 2

As the death toll in the violence in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-protests-10-dead-in-clashes-section-144-imposed-in-parts-of-north-east-delhi-282704">Delhi</a> rose to 24, the Supreme Court rebuked Delhi Police on Wednesday for failing to act "professionally" and to check "unfortunate incidents" of violence in north-east Delhi.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-heartfelt-appeal-to-people-of-delhi-after-fatal-clashes-282847">Also Read:&nbsp;PM Modi's heartfelt appeal to people of Delhi after fatal clashes</a>

With the violence continuing, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal speaking in the Delhi assembly appealed for calm while asserting that people do not want violence.

"All this has not been done by the 'aam aadmi'. This has been done by some anti-social, political and external elements. Hindus and Muslims in Delhi never want to fight," Kejriwal said in the Delhi assembly.

Watch Video:

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The Delhi chief minister also announced a compensation of 1 crore and a job for the family member of Delhi Police head constable Rattan Lal who had died as a result of the clashes in north-east Delhi.

At least 200 people have been injured in the violence which escalated last week.

Supreme Court came down heavily against the Delhi Police asserting that, "If somebody makes an inflammatory remark, police has to take action."

The top court told the law enforcement agencies that they should act "independently" as per law without waiting for somebody's nod.

The court, however, refused to take up pleas related to the riots over the CAA.&nbsp;

"We are not going into the applications related to the issue of violence. It is for the high court to look into the matter," it said.

As the death toll in the violence in Delhi rose to 24, the Supreme Court rebuked Delhi Police on Wednesday for failing to act "professionally" and to check "unfortunate incidents" of violence in north-east Delhi.

As the death toll in the violence in Delhi rose to 24, the Supreme Court rebuked Delhi Police on Wednesday for failing to act "professionally" and to check "unfortunate incidents" of violence in north-east Delhi. Also Read: PM Modi's heartfelt appeal to people of Delhi after fatal clashes With the violence continuing, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal speaking in the Delhi assembly appealed for calm while asserting that people do not want violence. "All this has not been done by the 'aam aadmi'. This has been done by some anti-social, political and external elements. Hindus and Muslims in Delhi never want to fight," Kejriwal said in the Delhi assembly. Watch Video: The Delhi chief minister also announced a compensation of 1 crore and a job for the family member of Delhi Police head constable Rattan Lal who had died as a result of the clashes in north-east Delhi. At least 200 people have been injured in the violence which escalated last week. Supreme Court came down heavily against the Delhi Police asserting that, "If somebody makes an inflammatory remark, police has to take action." The top court told the law enforcement agencies that they should act "independently" as per law without waiting for somebody's nod. The court, however, refused to take up pleas related to the riots over the CAA. "We are not going into the applications related to the issue of violence. It is for the high court to look into the matter," it said.

Supreme Court raps Delhi Police over violence

According to the latest reports, the death toll in violent protest in the Indian capital Delhi has risen to 20 with at least 150 people injured. Violent clashes are in Delhi over the new Citizenship Act in India.

Delhi violence: Death toll rises to 20, at least 150 injured in clashes over CAA

According to the latest reports, the death toll in a violent protest in the Indian capital Delhi has risen to 20 with over 189 people injured. Violent clashes are in Delhi over the new Citizenship Act in India.

Indian PM Narendra Modi tweets on violence in capital

Delhi Riots: Clashes over CAA rock the national capital

Clashes in the national capital have reportedly led to the death of 20&nbsp;people — including a policeman in the last 3 days. And a total of 150 people have been injured — including a child — as rival groups clashed amid protests over the citizenship law.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-chairs-meet-with-kejriwal-others-to-discuss-situation-in-delhi-282625">Also read: Amit Shah chairs meet with Kejriwal, others to discuss situation in Delhi</a>

News agency ANI, citing a Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital official, has reported that four persons were brought dead today.

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A police vehicle moves past burning debris that was set on fire by demonstrators. (Reuters Photo)

People armed with sticks and rods clashed in a violent encounter in the north-eastern part of Delhi on Monday and Tuesday. Section-144 has been imposed in the affected areas.Section-144 is often used to prohibit an assembly of five or more persons when unrest is anticipated.

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Delhi Police: Any person who wants the details of any victim, he or she may contact the following officers. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiViolence?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiViolence</a> <a href="https://t.co/casFST2mnx">pic.twitter.com/casFST2mnx</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1232559618863165442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/one-policeman-killed-in-clashes-during-caa-protests-in-delhi-282424">Also read: One policeman killed in clashes during CAA protests in Delhi</a>

As violence continues to spread in northeast Delhi 'shoot at sight' have been issued in various parts. Union home minister Amit shah chaired three meetings with political leaders and police officials in 24 hours.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and police commissioner Amulya Patnaik were also present at the meet. National security advisor Ajit Doval has also reached Seelampur in northeast Delhi to take a look at the situation. This visit comes minutes after home minister chaired the third meeting to counter the violence.

Meanwhile, the Central Board of Secondary Education has postponed their board exams scheduled today in the affected areas of the capital. Shah said that to tackle the situation, the city's borders with Uttar Pradesh and Haryana have been under surveillance over the last three days.

35 companies of paramilitary forces have been deployed in northeast Delhi. Major curfew was imposed in the areas of Jaffrabad, Maujpur, Karawal Nagar to cut down the violence.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal has appealed to the people of Delhi to maintain peace and calm. Tension simmered in the area after hundreds of anti-CAA protesters, mostly women, blocked a road near the Jaffrabad metro station in northeast Delhi on Sunday.&nbsp;

Several vehicles, shops and houses were torched, as clashes broke out between groups supporting and opposing the CAA in several areas in northeast Delhi.

Protesters were also seen brandishing guns and firing at the crowd. The Delhi police commissioner has given us an update on the situation. Listen in.

"Sufficient security forces have been deployed in the areas where there has been violence. Along with Delhi police, there are Delhi armed forces. Central paramilitary forces have also been deployed. Even senior officers have been sent to affected areas. Few incidents have been reported in small alleys in the area. Police will respond to it and bring the situation under control. Section-144 has been imposed in the affected areas. I request people not to take the law into their own hands," said Amulya Patnaik, Delhi Police Commissioner.

Clashes in the national capital have reportedly led to the death of 20 people — including a policeman in the last 3 days. And a total of 150 people have been injured — including a child — as rival groups clashed amid protests over the citizenship law.

Clashes in the national capital have reportedly led to the death of 20 people — including a policeman in the last 3 days. And a total of 150 people have been injured — including a child — as rival groups clashed amid protests over the citizenship law. Also read: Amit Shah chairs meet with Kejriwal, others to discuss situation in Delhi News agency ANI, citing a Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital official, has reported that four persons were brought dead today. A police vehicle moves past burning debris that was set on fire by demonstrators. (Reuters Photo) People armed with sticks and rods clashed in a violent encounter in the north-eastern part of Delhi on Monday and Tuesday. Section-144 has been imposed in the affected areas.Section-144 is often used to prohibit an assembly of five or more persons when unrest is anticipated. Delhi Police: Any person who wants the details of any victim, he or she may contact the following officers. #DelhiViolence pic.twitter.com/casFST2mnx — ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2020 × Also read: One policeman killed in clashes during CAA protests in Delhi As violence continues to spread in northeast Delhi 'shoot at sight' have been issued in various parts. Union home minister Amit shah chaired three meetings with political leaders and police officials in 24 hours. Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and police commissioner Amulya Patnaik were also present at the meet. National security advisor Ajit Doval has also reached Seelampur in northeast Delhi to take a look at the situation. This visit comes minutes after home minister chaired the third meeting to counter the violence. Meanwhile, the Central Board of Secondary Education has postponed their board exams scheduled today in the affected areas of the capital. Shah said that to tackle the situation, the city's borders with Uttar Pradesh and Haryana have been under surveillance over the last three days. 35 companies of paramilitary forces have been deployed in northeast Delhi. Major curfew was imposed in the areas of Jaffrabad, Maujpur, Karawal Nagar to cut down the violence. Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal has appealed to the people of Delhi to maintain peace and calm. Tension simmered in the area after hundreds of anti-CAA protesters, mostly women, blocked a road near the Jaffrabad metro station in northeast Delhi on Sunday. Several vehicles, shops and houses were torched, as clashes broke out between groups supporting and opposing the CAA in several areas in northeast Delhi. Protesters were also seen brandishing guns and firing at the crowd. The Delhi police commissioner has given us an update on the situation. Listen in. "Sufficient security forces have been deployed in the areas where there has been violence. Along with Delhi police, there are Delhi armed forces. Central paramilitary forces have also been deployed. Even senior officers have been sent to affected areas. Few incidents have been reported in small alleys in the area. Police will respond to it and bring the situation under control. Section-144 has been imposed in the affected areas. I request people not to take the law into their own hands," said Amulya Patnaik, Delhi Police Commissioner.

Delhi riots: Death toll rises to 20; high alert in Noida, Ghaziabad

Ajit Doval, the National Security Advisor (NSA) is the in charge of bringing peace back in North-East Delhi he is going to attend the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting on Wednesday.

According to the government, sources "He is going to brief Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cabinet about the situation."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-riots-death-toll-rises-to-20-high-alert-in-noida-ghaziabad-282772">Alsor read: Delhi riots — Death toll rises to 20; high alert in Noida, Ghaziabad</a>

NSA Ajit Doval visited Jaffrabad, Seelampur and other parts of North-East Delhi yesterday and held talks with leaders of different communities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-chairs-meet-with-kejriwal-others-to-discuss-situation-in-delhi-282625">Also read: Amit Shah chairs meet with Kejriwal, others to discuss situation in Delhi</a>

IPS officer SN Srivastava was appointed as the Delhi Police Special Commissioner (Law and Order) with immediate effect.

Meanwhile, clashes in the national capital have reportedly led to the death of 20 people — including a policeman in the last 3 days. And a total of 190 people have been injured — including a child — as rival groups clashed amid protests over the citizenship law.

People armed with sticks and rods clashed in a violent encounter in the north-eastern part of Delhi on Monday and Tuesday. Section-144 has been imposed in the affected areas.Section-144 is often used to prohibit an assembly of five or more persons when unrest is anticipated.

As violence continues to spread in northeast Delhi 'shoot at sight' have been issued in various parts. Union home minister Amit shah chaired three meetings with political leaders and police officials in 24 hours.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and police commissioner Amulya Patnaik were also present at the meet.

Ajit Doval, the National Security Advisor (NSA) is the in charge of bringing peace back in North-East Delhi he is going to attend the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting on Wednesday.

Ajit Doval, the National Security Advisor (NSA) is the in charge of bringing peace back in North-East Delhi he is going to attend the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting on Wednesday. According to the government, sources "He is going to brief Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cabinet about the situation." Alsor read: Delhi riots — Death toll rises to 20; high alert in Noida, Ghaziabad NSA Ajit Doval visited Jaffrabad, Seelampur and other parts of North-East Delhi yesterday and held talks with leaders of different communities. Also read: Amit Shah chairs meet with Kejriwal, others to discuss situation in Delhi IPS officer SN Srivastava was appointed as the Delhi Police Special Commissioner (Law and Order) with immediate effect. Meanwhile, clashes in the national capital have reportedly led to the death of 20 people — including a policeman in the last 3 days. And a total of 190 people have been injured — including a child — as rival groups clashed amid protests over the citizenship law. People armed with sticks and rods clashed in a violent encounter in the north-eastern part of Delhi on Monday and Tuesday. Section-144 has been imposed in the affected areas.Section-144 is often used to prohibit an assembly of five or more persons when unrest is anticipated. As violence continues to spread in northeast Delhi 'shoot at sight' have been issued in various parts. Union home minister Amit shah chaired three meetings with political leaders and police officials in 24 hours. Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and police commissioner Amulya Patnaik were also present at the meet.

20 dead in Delhi riots; Ajit Doval given charge to bring peace back to National Capital

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday tweeted on Delhi violence and appealed Delhi citizens to maintain peace and calm.

"Peace and harmony are central to our ethos. I appeal to my sisters and brothers of Delhi to maintain peace and brotherhood at all times. It is important that there is calm and normalcy is restored at the earliest," PM Narendra Modi tweeted.

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Peace and harmony are central to our ethos. I appeal to my sisters and brothers of Delhi to maintain peace and brotherhood at all times. It is important that there is calm and normalcy is restored at the earliest.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1232581653916155912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Had an extensive review on the situation prevailing in various parts of Delhi. Police and other agencies are working on the ground to ensure peace and normalcy," he tweeted.

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Had an extensive review on the situation prevailing in various parts of Delhi. Police and other agencies are working on the ground to ensure peace and normalcy.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1232581547175313414?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, hitting out at the Delhi government and the Centre, Sonia Gandhi said both the governments didn't activate the administration to reach out to the people to maintain peace and harmony.&nbsp; 
 
"It is the collective failure of both governments that have resulted in a great tragedy in the capital city," she added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday tweeted on Delhi violence and appealed Delhi citizens to maintain peace and calm. "Peace and harmony are central to our ethos.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday tweeted on Delhi violence and appealed Delhi citizens to maintain peace and calm. "Peace and harmony are central to our ethos. I appeal to my sisters and brothers of Delhi to maintain peace and brotherhood at all times. It is important that there is calm and normalcy is restored at the earliest," PM Narendra Modi tweeted. Peace and harmony are central to our ethos. I appeal to my sisters and brothers of Delhi to maintain peace and brotherhood at all times. It is important that there is calm and normalcy is restored at the earliest. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 26, 2020 × "Had an extensive review on the situation prevailing in various parts of Delhi. Police and other agencies are working on the ground to ensure peace and normalcy," he tweeted. Had an extensive review on the situation prevailing in various parts of Delhi. Police and other agencies are working on the ground to ensure peace and normalcy. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 26, 2020 × Meanwhile, hitting out at the Delhi government and the Centre, Sonia Gandhi said both the governments didn't activate the administration to reach out to the people to maintain peace and harmony. "It is the collective failure of both governments that have resulted in a great tragedy in the capital city," she added.

PM Modi's heartfelt appeal to people of Delhi after fatal clashes

13 people are reportedly dead in the violent clashes in Delhi over the new Citizenship Act in India. At least 150 people are injured in the clashes.

Delhi violence: 13 dead in violent clashes over CAA

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi on Wednesday called for the resignation of Home Minister Amit Shah over the deadly clashes in National Capital.

"The Centre and the Union Home Minister is responsible for the present situation in Delhi. The Union Home Minister should resign," said Sonia Gandhi.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-riots-death-toll-rises-to-20-high-alert-in-noida-ghaziabad-282772">Also&nbsp;read: Delhi riots — Death toll rises to 20; high alert in Noida, Ghaziabad</a>

Launching a scathing attack at BJP, Congress President said that there is a conspiracy behind the violence, the country also saw this during Delhi elections. Many BJP leaders made inciting comments creating an atmosphere of fear and hatred. Delhi Police has remained paralysed in the last 72 hrs-around 18 lives have been lost so far, including a head constable, hundreds are in hospital, many with gunshot injuries. Violence continues unabated on the streets of North East Delhi.

Sonia said that Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal is equally responsible for not activating the administration to reach out to the people to maintain peace and&nbsp;harmony.&nbsp;

"It is the collective failure of both governments that have resulted in a great tragedy in the capital city," she added.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, who has been given the charge of bringing violence in North-East Delhi under control, will attend the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-chairs-meet-with-kejriwal-others-to-discuss-situation-in-delhi-282625">Also read: Amit Shah chairs meet with Kejriwal, others to discuss situation in Delhi</a>

"He is going to brief Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cabinet about the situation," sources said.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-violence-death-toll-rises-to-20-in-clashes-over-caa-282840/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Last night, Doval visited Jaffrabad, Seelampur and other parts of North-East Delhi where he held talks with leaders of different communities.

Unrest over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) began in December but the latest deadly clashes were the worst the capital has seen in decades.

An official at Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital in New Delhi said 20 people had died there and more than 200 injured people, many of them with bullet wounds, had been treated.

clashes in the national capital have reportedly led to the death of 20 people — including a policeman in the last 3 days. And a total of 190 people have been injured — including a child — as rival groups clashed amid protests over the citizenship law.

People armed with sticks and rods clashed in a violent encounter in the north-eastern part of Delhi on Monday and Tuesday. Section-144 has been imposed in the affected areas.Section-144 is often used to prohibit an assembly of five or more persons when unrest is anticipated.

As violence continues to spread in northeast Delhi 'shoot at sight' have been issued in various parts. Union home minister Amit shah chaired three meetings with political leaders and police officials in 24 hours.

(With inputs from ANI)

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi on Wednesday called for the resignation of Home Minister Amit Shah over the deadly clashes in National Capital. "The Centre and the Union Home Minister is responsible for the present situation in Delhi.

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi on Wednesday called for the resignation of Home Minister Amit Shah over the deadly clashes in National Capital. "The Centre and the Union Home Minister is responsible for the present situation in Delhi. The Union Home Minister should resign," said Sonia Gandhi. Also read: Delhi riots — Death toll rises to 20; high alert in Noida, Ghaziabad Launching a scathing attack at BJP, Congress President said that there is a conspiracy behind the violence, the country also saw this during Delhi elections. Many BJP leaders made inciting comments creating an atmosphere of fear and hatred. Delhi Police has remained paralysed in the last 72 hrs-around 18 lives have been lost so far, including a head constable, hundreds are in hospital, many with gunshot injuries. Violence continues unabated on the streets of North East Delhi. Sonia said that Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal is equally responsible for not activating the administration to reach out to the people to maintain peace and harmony. "It is the collective failure of both governments that have resulted in a great tragedy in the capital city," she added. Meanwhile, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, who has been given the charge of bringing violence in North-East Delhi under control, will attend the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting. Also read: Amit Shah chairs meet with Kejriwal, others to discuss situation in Delhi "He is going to brief Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cabinet about the situation," sources said. Last night, Doval visited Jaffrabad, Seelampur and other parts of North-East Delhi where he held talks with leaders of different communities. Unrest over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) began in December but the latest deadly clashes were the worst the capital has seen in decades. An official at Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital in New Delhi said 20 people had died there and more than 200 injured people, many of them with bullet wounds, had been treated. clashes in the national capital have reportedly led to the death of 20 people — including a policeman in the last 3 days. And a total of 190 people have been injured — including a child — as rival groups clashed amid protests over the citizenship law. People armed with sticks and rods clashed in a violent encounter in the north-eastern part of Delhi on Monday and Tuesday. Section-144 has been imposed in the affected areas.Section-144 is often used to prohibit an assembly of five or more persons when unrest is anticipated. As violence continues to spread in northeast Delhi 'shoot at sight' have been issued in various parts. Union home minister Amit shah chaired three meetings with political leaders and police officials in 24 hours. (With inputs from ANI)

Delhi riots: Police remained paralysed, Home Minister Amit Shah should resign, says Sonia Gandhi

According to the latest reports, 20 people are reportedly dead with more at least 150 injured in the violent clashes. The clashes are taking place in the Indian capital over the amended Citizenship Act in India.

Delhi violence: Death toll rises to 20 in clashes over CAA

US President Donald Trump, asked today about the violence in parts of Delhi over CAA and religious freedom. He said, I had word with PM Modi and he wants people to have religious freedom. He said, it's up to India.

Do You want to know What Trump has said on CAA?

A drastic increase of&nbsp;stone-pelting incidents&nbsp;reported in the Maujpur area of the national capital resulted in the deployment of additional police personnel&nbsp;to maintain order and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-misleading-public-to-disrupt-law-and-order-over-caa-tamil-nadu-cm-palaniswami-281421" target="_blank">reduce the number of violent clashes</a>.

Stringent security measures precede fierce clashes in the area that resulted in 7 deaths on Monday. Police officers and Rapid Action Force personnel arrived at the scene following&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/road-at-shaheen-bagh-opened-by-group-of-protesters-blocked-again-police-282148" target="_blank">multiple incidents of stone-pelting</a>&nbsp;in Brahampuri and Maujpur area.

Law enforcement officials conducted a flag march in these areas after clashes broke out.

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/a-person-open-fires-at-shaheen-bagh-shouting-sirf-hinduon-ki-chalegi-278057" target="_blank">A person open fires at Shaheen Bagh shouting "Sirf Hinduon Ki Chalegi"</a>

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&nbsp;The events have received bipartisan condemnation on social media, as Lt. Governor Baijal tweeted, “Instructed @DelhiPolice and @CPDelhito ensure that law and order is maintained in North East Delhi. The situation is being closely monitored. I urge everyone to exercise restraint.”

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Instructed <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiPolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiPolice</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/CPDelhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CPDelhi</a> to ensure that law and order is maintained in North East Delhi. The situation is being closely monitored. I urge everyone to exercise restraint for maintenance of peace and harmony.
— LG Delhi (@LtGovDelhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/LtGovDelhi/status/1231887820861521920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Leader of the Indian National Congress, Rahul Gandhi, tweeted, "The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/latest-india-news-third-firing-incident-takes-place-at-jamia-milia-islamia-278235" target="_blank">violence today in Delhi is disturbing</a>&nbsp;and must be unequivocally condemned... I urge the citizens of Delhi to show restraint, compassion and understanding no matter what the provocation,"

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The violence today in Delhi is disturbing &amp; must be unequivocally condemned. Peaceful protests are a sign of a healthy democracy, but violence can never be justified. I urge the citizens of Delhi to show restraint, compassion &amp; understanding no matter what the provocation.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1231928862365241344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/one-policeman-killed-in-clashes-during-caa-protests-in-delhi-282424" target="_blank">One policeman killed in clashes during CAA protests in Delhi</a>
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Rattan Lal, a Police Head Constable was among the 7 who had lost their lives in the clashes. More than 100 people have been reportedly injured in the clashes between groups that favour and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shaheen-bagh-protesters-try-to-march-to-home-ministers-residence-stopped-by-police-280992" target="_blank">groups that oppose the Citizenship Amendment Act</a>&nbsp;in North-East Delhi.

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&nbsp;Home Minister Amit Shah held a meeting on Monday with senior Delhi Police officers and top Home Ministry officials to review the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajinikanth-comes-out-in-support-of-caa-npr-says-youth-being-misled-into-protests-278734" target="_blank">law and order situation in Delhi</a>. All government and private schools in northeast Delhi are reportedly closed on Tuesday, as per tweets from Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia.
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A drastic increase of stone-pelting incidents reported in the Maujpur area of the national capital resulted in the deployment of additional police personnel to maintain order and reduce the number of violent clashes.

A drastic increase of stone-pelting incidents reported in the Maujpur area of the national capital resulted in the deployment of additional police personnel to maintain order and reduce the number of violent clashes. Stringent security measures precede fierce clashes in the area that resulted in 7 deaths on Monday. Police officers and Rapid Action Force personnel arrived at the scene following multiple incidents of stone-pelting in Brahampuri and Maujpur area. Law enforcement officials conducted a flag march in these areas after clashes broke out. Watch: A person open fires at Shaheen Bagh shouting "Sirf Hinduon Ki Chalegi" The events have received bipartisan condemnation on social media, as Lt. Governor Baijal tweeted, “Instructed @DelhiPolice and @CPDelhito ensure that law and order is maintained in North East Delhi. The situation is being closely monitored. I urge everyone to exercise restraint.” Instructed @DelhiPolice and @CPDelhi to ensure that law and order is maintained in North East Delhi. The situation is being closely monitored. I urge everyone to exercise restraint for maintenance of peace and harmony. — LG Delhi (@LtGovDelhi) February 24, 2020 × Leader of the Indian National Congress, Rahul Gandhi, tweeted, "The violence today in Delhi is disturbing and must be unequivocally condemned... I urge the citizens of Delhi to show restraint, compassion and understanding no matter what the provocation," The violence today in Delhi is disturbing & must be unequivocally condemned. Peaceful protests are a sign of a healthy democracy, but violence can never be justified. I urge the citizens of Delhi to show restraint, compassion & understanding no matter what the provocation. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) February 24, 2020 × Also Read: One policeman killed in clashes during CAA protests in Delhi Rattan Lal, a Police Head Constable was among the 7 who had lost their lives in the clashes. More than 100 people have been reportedly injured in the clashes between groups that favour and groups that oppose the Citizenship Amendment Act in North-East Delhi. Home Minister Amit Shah held a meeting on Monday with senior Delhi Police officers and top Home Ministry officials to review the law and order situation in Delhi. All government and private schools in northeast Delhi are reportedly closed on Tuesday, as per tweets from Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia.

CAA: Death toll rises to seven as Maujpur witnesses heavy security

Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal on Tuesday called for peace and harmony in the national capital amid the ongoing violence in Delhi between pro and anti CAA protestors, which has led to the death of seven people.

Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal on Tuesday called for peace and harmony in the national capital amid the ongoing violence in Delhi between pro and anti CAA protestors, which has led to the death of seven people. "Both the Chief Minister (Arvind Kejriwal) and I want that peace and harmony should remain intact in Delhi. We should do everything possible to maintain peace and order," he said while speaking to media in New Delhi. Also Read: Following CAA violence, Maujpur witnesses heavy security measures The Delhi Lieutenant Governor also stressed upon working in coordination with the Delhi government led by Arvind Kejriwal to help the police to curb violence. "We (Centre and Delhi government) should also help Police in this," he said. The Delhi Chief Minister had also told media earlier in the day that discussion with Amit Shah was "positive" and said all political parties have stressed upon restoring peace. Also Read: One policeman killed in clashes during CAA protests in Delhi "It was decided in the meeting that all the political parties will take requisite steps to restore peace in Delhi. The meeting with Home Minister Amit Shah was positive," CM Kejriwal had said. Seven people, including one police head constable, have lost their lives and over 100 have been injured in North-East Delhi in two days after clashes broke out between pro and anti CAA protestors.

Anil Baijal calls for peace in Delhi, amid continued violence

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday chaired a meeting with Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Police Commissioner Amulya Patnaik and other political leaders regarding the violence and prevailing situation in North East Delhi areas.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday chaired a meeting with Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Police Commissioner Amulya Patnaik and other political leaders regarding the violence and prevailing situation in North East Delhi areas. Congress leader Subhash Chopra, BJP leaders Manoj Tiwari, Rambir Singh Bidhuri and others are also present in the meeting. Also Read: 19 in police custody for pelting stones at law enforcement in UP's Azamgarh As many as seven persons were killed and over 100 injured in violent incidents reported from the North-East district of the national capital on Monday, police said. The violence occurred after clashes took place between the pro and anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) protesters at various places in the area on Monday. Also Read: Third firing incident takes place within a week amid anti-CAA protests in Delhi A statement from the Delhi Police said, "A total of seven deaths were reported - one police personnel and six civilians have lost their lives." Union Home Minister Amit Shah also held a meeting late Monday night with senior Delhi Police officers and top Home Ministry officials on the prevailing law and order situation in the national capital.

Amit Shah chairs meet with Kejriwal, others to discuss situation in Delhi

A Delhi police official was killed during clashes with protesters over&nbsp;the Citizenship (Amendment) Act(<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-misleading-public-to-disrupt-law-and-order-over-caa-tamil-nadu-cm-palaniswami-281421">CAA</a>) in the national capital on Monday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-adjourns-shaheen-bagh-matter-to-february-26-after-interlocutors-submit-report-282357">Also Read: Supreme Court adjourns Shaheen Bagh case to February 26</a>

The head constable Ratan Lal belonged to Assistant Commissioner of Police, Gokulpuri.

Amid the protests in&nbsp;Citizenship (Amendment) Act in Delhi, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Shahdara, Amit Sharma was injured.

Amit Sharma reportedly suffered injuries on his head and hand and has been hospitalised. Several other police personnel were also injured in the clashes with vehicles and shops destroyed.

As the violence erupted, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal urged Lt Governor Anil Baijal and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to restore law and order in the wake of violence in parts of northeast Delhi.

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Very distressing news regarding disturbance of peace and harmony in parts of Delhi coming in. 
I sincerely urge Hon’ble LG n Hon'ble Union Home Minister to restore law and order n ensure that peace and harmony is maintained. Nobody should be allowed to orchestrate flagrations.
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1231879205773697024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Very distressing news regarding disturbance of peace and harmony in parts of Delhi coming in, the Delhi chie minister said, adding,"I sincerely urge Hon'ble LG n Hon'ble Union Home Minister to restore law and order n ensure that peace and harmony is maintained. Nobody should be allowed to orchestrate flagrations (sic)," the Delhi chief minister said in a tweet. 
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A Delhi police official was killed during clashes with protesters over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act(CAA) in the national capital on Monday. Also Read: Supreme Court adjourns Shaheen Bagh case to February 26 The head constable Ratan Lal belonged to Assistant Commissioner of Police, Gokulpuri.

A Delhi police official was killed during clashes with protesters over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act(CAA) in the national capital on Monday. Also Read: Supreme Court adjourns Shaheen Bagh case to February 26 The head constable Ratan Lal belonged to Assistant Commissioner of Police, Gokulpuri. Amid the protests in Citizenship (Amendment) Act in Delhi, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Shahdara, Amit Sharma was injured. Amit Sharma reportedly suffered injuries on his head and hand and has been hospitalised. Several other police personnel were also injured in the clashes with vehicles and shops destroyed. As the violence erupted, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal urged Lt Governor Anil Baijal and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to restore law and order in the wake of violence in parts of northeast Delhi. Very distressing news regarding disturbance of peace and harmony in parts of Delhi coming in. I sincerely urge Hon’ble LG n Hon'ble Union Home Minister to restore law and order n ensure that peace and harmony is maintained. Nobody should be allowed to orchestrate flagrations. — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) February 24, 2020 × "Very distressing news regarding disturbance of peace and harmony in parts of Delhi coming in, the Delhi chie minister said, adding,"I sincerely urge Hon'ble LG n Hon'ble Union Home Minister to restore law and order n ensure that peace and harmony is maintained. Nobody should be allowed to orchestrate flagrations (sic)," the Delhi chief minister said in a tweet.

One policeman killed in clashes during CAA protests in Delhi

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shaheen-bagh-sc-says-people-have-right-to-protest-but-there-must-be-balancing-factor-281160">Supreme Court </a>on Monday adjourned the hearing in the matter pertaining to the protests against Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/road-at-shaheen-bagh-opened-by-group-of-protesters-blocked-again-police-282148">Shaheen Bagh</a> after the interlocutors submitted their report in a sealed cover.

A division bench headed by Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and also comprising KM Joseph will take up the matter on February 26 after going through the report.

The two Amicus Curiae have submitted their report in a sealed cover to the apex court.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/road-at-shaheen-bagh-opened-by-group-of-protesters-blocked-again-police-282148">Road at Shaheen Bagh opened by group of protesters, blocked again: Police</a>

"We will go through the report," Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul said.

The Supreme Court-appointed mediators senior advocates Sanjay Hegde and Sadhana Ramachandran had last week engaged with the anti-CAA protestors for shifting the venue from Shaheen Bagh.

The Supreme Court had last week appointed senior advocates Sanjay Hedge, Sadhana Ramachandran and former bureaucrat Wajahat Habibullah as interlocutors to talk to the protestors here and urge them to clear the road and protest at an alternate site.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shaheen-bagh-sc-says-people-have-right-to-protest-but-there-must-be-balancing-factor-281160">Shaheen Bagh: SC says people have right to protest but there must be balancing factor</a>

Thousands of people, including a large number of Muslim women, have been staging a sit-in protest at Delhi's Shaheen Bagh area since mid-December last year against the CAA and the proposed National Register of Citizens (NRC).

A public interest litigation (PIL) in the matter, filed by Nand Kishore Garg and Amit Sahni through their lawyer Shashank Deo Sudhi, sought appropriate directions to the Centre and others concerned for removal of protestors from Shaheen Bagh near Kalindi Kunj.

The petition seeks appropriate direction to the respondents, including the Centre, for laying down "detailed, comprehensive and exhaustive guidelines relating to outright restrictions for holding protest/agitation" leading to obstruction of the public space.

The Supreme Court on Monday adjourned the hearing in the matter pertaining to the protests against Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) at Shaheen Bagh after the interlocutors submitted their report in a sealed cover.

The Supreme Court on Monday adjourned the hearing in the matter pertaining to the protests against Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) at Shaheen Bagh after the interlocutors submitted their report in a sealed cover. A division bench headed by Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and also comprising KM Joseph will take up the matter on February 26 after going through the report. The two Amicus Curiae have submitted their report in a sealed cover to the apex court. Also read: Road at Shaheen Bagh opened by group of protesters, blocked again: Police "We will go through the report," Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul said. The Supreme Court-appointed mediators senior advocates Sanjay Hegde and Sadhana Ramachandran had last week engaged with the anti-CAA protestors for shifting the venue from Shaheen Bagh. The Supreme Court had last week appointed senior advocates Sanjay Hedge, Sadhana Ramachandran and former bureaucrat Wajahat Habibullah as interlocutors to talk to the protestors here and urge them to clear the road and protest at an alternate site. Also read: Shaheen Bagh: SC says people have right to protest but there must be balancing factor Thousands of people, including a large number of Muslim women, have been staging a sit-in protest at Delhi's Shaheen Bagh area since mid-December last year against the CAA and the proposed National Register of Citizens (NRC). A public interest litigation (PIL) in the matter, filed by Nand Kishore Garg and Amit Sahni through their lawyer Shashank Deo Sudhi, sought appropriate directions to the Centre and others concerned for removal of protestors from Shaheen Bagh near Kalindi Kunj. The petition seeks appropriate direction to the respondents, including the Centre, for laying down "detailed, comprehensive and exhaustive guidelines relating to outright restrictions for holding protest/agitation" leading to obstruction of the public space.

Supreme Court adjourns Shaheen Bagh matter to February 26 after interlocutors submit report

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