Devastating wildfires swept the globe this summer. Canada experienced its worst wildfire season on record this year. Even Hawaii had to bear the brunt of extreme wildfires. In 2023, forest fires destroyed nearly 988 million acres of land around the world and killed more than 250 people. Here is a recap of deadly wildfires that were fuelled by climate change.

Record year of Wildfires: Canada, Hawaii, Greece

<p>As many as 14 gunshots were fired at the residence of the son of a Hindu temple president in Surrey, in the Canadian province of British Columbia. In the wake of this unsettling incident, Canadian authorities are currently investigating the matter, details of which in media reports only include the efforts being made in the probe and do not confirm&nbsp;if any suspects have been identified. The house in this case is of the son of Satish Kumar, who is the president of the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The man whose house came under attack is a Hindu businessman and the incident transpired on December 27, 2023, at around 8:03 am. The resident is located in the 14900 block of 80 Avenue.&nbsp;Surrey Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) responded to a report of shots fired at the house.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a statement from RCMP,&nbsp;no one was injured during the incident. However, the police added that the residence involved "sustained damage consistent with bullet holes."</p>

<p>"Police remained in the area, examining the scene, speaking with witnesses and canvassing the neighbourhood for CCTV footage. The Surrey RCMP General Investigation Unit has conduct of the investigation. Officers are still working to determine the motive of this incident," the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police requested anyone with more information about the incident, including dashcam footage of the incident, to get in contact with them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This attack comes against the backdrop of a growing diplomatic row between India and Canada.</p>

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<p>The Surrey RCMP General Investigation Unit has taken charge of the investigation and is working to ascertain the motive behind this targeted attack.</p>

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<p>There has been a concerning escalation in violence against Hindu communities in Canada. Temples have been increasingly subjected to acts of vandalism and attacks, coinciding with the surging presence of Khalistani groups in the country, something that India has been probing Canada to take action against.</p>

<p>In September, the Shri Mata Bhameshwari Durga temple, in Canada's Surrey was defaced with anti-India and pro-Khalistan graffiti on its outer walls.&nbsp;Recent occurrences also include vandalism at temples in Brampton and the Greater Toronto area.</p>

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<p>Community leaders are pressing law enforcement to allocate additional resources for the security of these temples as the Hindu community remains uneasy in the face of these troubling developments and heightening tensions in the diplomatic relations between India and Canada.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As many as 14 gunshots were fired at the residence of the son of a Hindu temple president in Surrey, in the Canadian province of British Columbia. In the wake of this unsettling incident, Canadian authorities are currently investigating the matter, details of which in media reports only include the efforts being made in the probe and do not confirm if any suspects have been identified.

As many as 14 gunshots were fired at the residence of the son of a Hindu temple president in Surrey, in the Canadian province of British Columbia. In the wake of this unsettling incident, Canadian authorities are currently investigating the matter, details of which in media reports only include the efforts being made in the probe and do not confirm if any suspects have been identified. The house in this case is of the son of Satish Kumar, who is the president of the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey. The man whose house came under attack is a Hindu businessman and the incident transpired on December 27, 2023, at around 8:03 am. The resident is located in the 14900 block of 80 Avenue. Surrey Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) responded to a report of shots fired at the house. According to a statement from RCMP, no one was injured during the incident. However, the police added that the residence involved "sustained damage consistent with bullet holes." "Police remained in the area, examining the scene, speaking with witnesses and canvassing the neighbourhood for CCTV footage. The Surrey RCMP General Investigation Unit has conduct of the investigation. Officers are still working to determine the motive of this incident," the statement added. The police requested anyone with more information about the incident, including dashcam footage of the incident, to get in contact with them. This attack comes against the backdrop of a growing diplomatic row between India and Canada. Also Read | Volodymyr Zelensky and Pope discuss Ukraine's Peace Plan The Surrey RCMP General Investigation Unit has taken charge of the investigation and is working to ascertain the motive behind this targeted attack. Also Read | Maine deals 2nd blow to Trump, disqualifies him from primary ballot after similar move by Colorado There has been a concerning escalation in violence against Hindu communities in Canada. Temples have been increasingly subjected to acts of vandalism and attacks, coinciding with the surging presence of Khalistani groups in the country, something that India has been probing Canada to take action against. In September, the Shri Mata Bhameshwari Durga temple, in Canada's Surrey was defaced with anti-India and pro-Khalistan graffiti on its outer walls. Recent occurrences also include vandalism at temples in Brampton and the Greater Toronto area. Watch | Donald Trump blocked from Maine presidential ballot × Community leaders are pressing law enforcement to allocate additional resources for the security of these temples as the Hindu community remains uneasy in the face of these troubling developments and heightening tensions in the diplomatic relations between India and Canada. (With inputs from agencies)

14 shots fired at house of Hindu temple president's son in Canada's British Columbia

<p>In the wake of escalating violence against Hindu communities and a surge in the presence of Khalistani activities&nbsp;in Canada, the authorities have identified a 41-year-old suspect in connection with&nbsp;a series of break-and-entries&nbsp;at Hindu temples.</p>

<p>Police have identified Jagdish Pandher, a man from Brampton, as the alleged perpetrator behind multiple incidents targeting places of worship.</p>

<p>This also includes an incident on October 8, 2023, when the Canadian police responded to reports of a break-and-entry&nbsp;at a Hindu temple in Bayly Street and Krosno Boulevard neighbourhood in Pickering, Ontario.</p>

<p>As per Canada's Durham Regional Police, surveillance footage revealed Pandher breaking into the temple and leaving with a substantial amount of cash from donation boxes.</p>

<p>Subsequent investigations connected him to additional break-ins at temples in Pickering and Ajax, as well as various locations across Durham Region and the Greater Toronto Area.</p>

<p>"Investigators have linked the same suspect to numerous other break-and-enters at Hindu temples throughout the year. &nbsp;These break-and-enters occurred in Durham Region and around the Greater Toronto Area,"&nbsp;Durham regional police said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Despite the targeted locations being places of worship, authorities assert that the offences "do not appear to be hate crimes or motivated by hate."</p>

<p>These incidents of increased violence towards Hindu communities have left the people on edge.</p>

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<p>Jagdish Pandher is now facing a list of charges, including four counts of Break-and-Enter Place Other Than Dwelling, four counts of Possess Property Obtained by Crime Under $5000, one count of Break-and-Enter with Intent, and five counts of Breach of Probation.</p>

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<p>The incidents have prompted authorities to urge the public to contact the West Division Property Crimes Unit with any relevant information available to them.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In the wake of escalating violence against Hindu communities and a surge in the presence of Khalistani activities in Canada, the authorities have identified a 41-year-old suspect in connection with a series of break-and-entries at Hindu temples.

In the wake of escalating violence against Hindu communities and a surge in the presence of Khalistani activities in Canada, the authorities have identified a 41-year-old suspect in connection with a series of break-and-entries at Hindu temples. Police have identified Jagdish Pandher, a man from Brampton, as the alleged perpetrator behind multiple incidents targeting places of worship. This also includes an incident on October 8, 2023, when the Canadian police responded to reports of a break-and-entry at a Hindu temple in Bayly Street and Krosno Boulevard neighbourhood in Pickering, Ontario. As per Canada's Durham Regional Police, surveillance footage revealed Pandher breaking into the temple and leaving with a substantial amount of cash from donation boxes. Subsequent investigations connected him to additional break-ins at temples in Pickering and Ajax, as well as various locations across Durham Region and the Greater Toronto Area. "Investigators have linked the same suspect to numerous other break-and-enters at Hindu temples throughout the year. These break-and-enters occurred in Durham Region and around the Greater Toronto Area," Durham regional police said in a statement. Also Read | Wisconsin university chancellor produces, appears in porn videos, gets fired Despite the targeted locations being places of worship, authorities assert that the offences "do not appear to be hate crimes or motivated by hate." These incidents of increased violence towards Hindu communities have left the people on edge. Also Read | Israeli soldiers mistook hostages' cries for help as 'ambush': Report Jagdish Pandher is now facing a list of charges, including four counts of Break-and-Enter Place Other Than Dwelling, four counts of Possess Property Obtained by Crime Under $5000, one count of Break-and-Enter with Intent, and five counts of Breach of Probation. Watch | Mexico & U.S. agree to keep borders open | U.S.-Mexico Border Dispute × The incidents have prompted authorities to urge the public to contact the West Division Property Crimes Unit with any relevant information available to them. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada identifies 41-year-old suspect, Jagdish Pandher, in multiple break-and-entries at Hindu temples

<p>Two people, who have been suspected of being involved in Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar's fatal shooting in British Columbia, are under police surveillance as per reports and are likely to be apprehended by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in the next few weeks, as stated by Canadian daily The Globe and Mail.</p>

<p>In a fatal attack, 45-year-old Hardeep Singh Nijjar was shot multiple times while he was moving out of a Sikh temple in Surrey on June 18. Before the attack, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service had earlier warned him of a potential threat&nbsp;to his life.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-accuses-canada-of-harbouring-terrorists-in-response-to-trudeaus-hinted-tonal-shift-in-relations-672283">India accuses Canada of harbouring terrorists in response to Trudeau's hinted 'tonal shift' in relations</a></p>

<p>As per the report published in Globe and Mail, the suspected assailants were in Canada after the killing and remained under police surveillance. It is likely that the RCMP will make arrests soon and charges will be pressed against the individuals. The sources said that more details regarding the alleged involvement of the accused and the Indian government will be disclosed by the police.</p>

<h2><strong>India-Canada's strained ties</strong></h2>

<p>The relations between India and Canada have been dented after Hardeep Singh Nijjar was killed on June 18 as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of playing a role in the assassination of Nijjar. The charges were rejected by India as the diplomatic ties strained. Temporarily, India suspended visa operations in Canada and 41 Canadian diplomats - who were posted in India - were sent back while holding them responsible for interference in the internal affairs of India.</p>

<p>New Delhi said that Ottawa has turned into a haven for Khalistani terrorists and that despite being nudged by India, the Canadian government took no action against these elements. On the other hand, India has said it is willing to cooperate with the investigation into the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Pannun Murder Plot: Canada PM tones down rhetoric on India&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, an Indian man Nikhil Gupta has been charged by the United States of conspiring to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil. After the US indictment, the Canadian PM said that he feels the relations with India are likely to have undergone a tonal shift. "I think there is a beginning of an understanding that they can't bluster their way through this and there is an openness to collaborating in a way that perhaps they were less open before," said Trudeau.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reacting to US allegations, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a recent interview with Financial Times, said that India will look into all the information it has received in the matter. "If a citizen of ours has done anything good or bad, we are ready to look into it. Our commitment is to the rule of law," said PM Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;</em></p>


Two people, who have been suspected of being involved in Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar's fatal shooting in British Columbia, are under police surveillance as per reports and are likely to be apprehended by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in the next few weeks, as stated by Canadian daily The Globe and Mail.

Two people, who have been suspected of being involved in Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar's fatal shooting in British Columbia, are under police surveillance as per reports and are likely to be apprehended by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in the next few weeks, as stated by Canadian daily The Globe and Mail. In a fatal attack, 45-year-old Hardeep Singh Nijjar was shot multiple times while he was moving out of a Sikh temple in Surrey on June 18. Before the attack, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service had earlier warned him of a potential threat to his life. Also read: India accuses Canada of harbouring terrorists in response to Trudeau's hinted 'tonal shift' in relations As per the report published in Globe and Mail, the suspected assailants were in Canada after the killing and remained under police surveillance. It is likely that the RCMP will make arrests soon and charges will be pressed against the individuals. The sources said that more details regarding the alleged involvement of the accused and the Indian government will be disclosed by the police. India-Canada's strained ties The relations between India and Canada have been dented after Hardeep Singh Nijjar was killed on June 18 as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of playing a role in the assassination of Nijjar. The charges were rejected by India as the diplomatic ties strained. Temporarily, India suspended visa operations in Canada and 41 Canadian diplomats - who were posted in India - were sent back while holding them responsible for interference in the internal affairs of India. New Delhi said that Ottawa has turned into a haven for Khalistani terrorists and that despite being nudged by India, the Canadian government took no action against these elements. On the other hand, India has said it is willing to cooperate with the investigation into the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Watch: Pannun Murder Plot: Canada PM tones down rhetoric on India Meanwhile, an Indian man Nikhil Gupta has been charged by the United States of conspiring to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil. After the US indictment, the Canadian PM said that he feels the relations with India are likely to have undergone a tonal shift. "I think there is a beginning of an understanding that they can't bluster their way through this and there is an openness to collaborating in a way that perhaps they were less open before," said Trudeau. Reacting to US allegations, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a recent interview with Financial Times, said that India will look into all the information it has received in the matter. "If a citizen of ours has done anything good or bad, we are ready to look into it. Our commitment is to the rule of law," said PM Modi. (With inputs from agencies)

Suspects of Nijjar killing still in Canada, to be arrested soon: Report

<p>Sonja Semyonova, a self-proclaimed "ecosexual" from Vancouver Island, British Columbia, has stirred curiosity by declaring an intimate connection with an oak tree, saying&nbsp;that the romantic energy she experiences is what she has always sought in a human partner.</p>

<h2><strong>Defining 'ecosexual'</strong></h2>

<p>The term "ecosexual" refers to individuals who perceive nature as romantic.&nbsp;They often envision Earth as a lover, seeking intimate connections with the natural world.</p>

<p>Semyonova, a 45-year-old self-intimacy coach, relocated to Vancouver Island in 2020. During the COVID-19 lockdown, she developed a profound connection with a massive oak tree near her residence, walking its path regularly.</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/ChLAjDFvxAL/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Sonja Semyonova (@bodystoryteller)</a></p>
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<p>"The presence I feel with the tree is what I'm looking for but that's a fantasy with a person. I had been craving that rush of erotic energy that comes when you meet a new partner and that is not sustainable," Ms Semyonova told the New York Post.</p>

<p>While acknowledging that loving a life form other than humans may seem peculiar, Semyonova distinguishes her bond with the oak tree from conventional human relationships.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-japanese-woman-ex-soldier-got-justice-after-sexaul-assault-by-male-colleagues-669072">Also read |&nbsp;Explained | How Japanese woman ex-soldier got justice after sexual assault by male colleagues</a></p>

<h2><strong>Misconceptions about ecosexuality</strong></h2>

<p>Contrary to common misconceptions, Semyonova clarifies that ecosexuality doesn't involve physical acts between people and nature.</p>

<p>Instead, it offers a unique way to explore the romance,&nbsp;with experiences such as observing the changing seasons considered as sensual acts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Court revives child sexual exploitation lawsuit against Nirvana</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/court-revives-child-sexual-exploitation-lawsuit-against-nirvana-672886/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"There's a reason we want to go for picnics in parks and hike in nature. What we fail to notice is that the reason we want this is to tap into the life force that comes from these things, which is the erotic. I believe that we could gain from having a more symbiotic relationship with nature," she added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Sonja Semyonova, a self-proclaimed "ecosexual" from Vancouver Island, British Columbia, has stirred curiosity by declaring an intimate connection with an oak tree, saying that the romantic energy she experiences is what she has always sought in a human partner.

Sonja Semyonova, a self-proclaimed "ecosexual" from Vancouver Island, British Columbia, has stirred curiosity by declaring an intimate connection with an oak tree, saying that the romantic energy she experiences is what she has always sought in a human partner. Defining 'ecosexual' The term "ecosexual" refers to individuals who perceive nature as romantic. They often envision Earth as a lover, seeking intimate connections with the natural world. Semyonova, a 45-year-old self-intimacy coach, relocated to Vancouver Island in 2020. During the COVID-19 lockdown, she developed a profound connection with a massive oak tree near her residence, walking its path regularly. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sonja Semyonova (@bodystoryteller) × "The presence I feel with the tree is what I'm looking for but that's a fantasy with a person. I had been craving that rush of erotic energy that comes when you meet a new partner and that is not sustainable," Ms Semyonova told the New York Post. While acknowledging that loving a life form other than humans may seem peculiar, Semyonova distinguishes her bond with the oak tree from conventional human relationships. Also read | Explained | How Japanese woman ex-soldier got justice after sexual assault by male colleagues Misconceptions about ecosexuality Contrary to common misconceptions, Semyonova clarifies that ecosexuality doesn't involve physical acts between people and nature. Instead, it offers a unique way to explore the romance, with experiences such as observing the changing seasons considered as sensual acts. Also watch | Court revives child sexual exploitation lawsuit against Nirvana "There's a reason we want to go for picnics in parks and hike in nature. What we fail to notice is that the reason we want this is to tap into the life force that comes from these things, which is the erotic. I believe that we could gain from having a more symbiotic relationship with nature," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Love in bloom: ‘Ecosexual’ woman declares romantic bond with oak tree

The tense relations between Canada and India, Canadian authorities are expected to arrest two suspects tied to the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Nijjar killing: Canadian police expected to arrest culprit who are still in Canada | WION

This summer, towns from Maui to the Mediterranean have been devastated by wildfires caused by climate change, which has left many dead, worn out firefighters, and increased need for innovative solutions. AI-enabled cameras are being used by entrepreneurs and firefighters to search the horizon for smoke. In order to detect fires from orbit, a German business is constructing a constellation of satellites. Additionally, Microsoft is utilizing AI algorithms to forecast the potential locations of future fires.

2023, deadliest year for wildfires: Forest fire destroyed 400 million hectares of land worldwide

<p>The worldwide celebration of Jesus Christ's birth takes place with great enthusiasm and splendour on December 25. The holiday festivities commence on Christmas Eve and conclude after New Year. The day between Christmas and New Year's Eve is marked as Boxing Day. Observed on the day following Christmas, Boxing Day, contrary to its name, has no association with the sport. Initially established as a day to bestow gifts upon the less fortunate, it has evolved into a widely recognised 'shopping holiday.'</p>

<h3><strong>History&nbsp;</strong></h3>

<p>Boxing Day is specifically observed in the United Kingdom and various other regions globally, including Canada, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. However, it is not widely recognised in the United States. The term originates from an era when affluent individuals boxed up gifts to give to those who are poor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In historical times, it was customary for the servants of wealthy individuals to work on Christmas, catering to guests and celebrations. In appreciation for their dedicated service, employers would assemble gift boxes for the servants to take home on the day following Christmas as a token of gratitude. This practice is the origin of the term Boxing Day.</p>

<h3><strong>Significance&nbsp;</strong></h3>

<p>Boxing Day holds historical significance rooted in the tradition of giving back to those in need. This day is to glorify the fact that sharing is caring. The practice symbolised a form of charity and generosity during the Christmas season.</p>

<p>Over time, Boxing Day has evolved into a public holiday observed in various countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and others. It is often associated with shopping, sports events, and charitable activities. In some cultures, it continues to be a day dedicated to acts of kindness, giving to the less fortunate, and spending time with family and friends. While the historical context may have shifted, Boxing Day remains a day of diverse celebrations and a continuation of the spirit of generosity.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The worldwide celebration of Jesus Christ's birth takes place with great enthusiasm and splendour on December 25. The holiday festivities commence on Christmas Eve and conclude after New Year.

The worldwide celebration of Jesus Christ's birth takes place with great enthusiasm and splendour on December 25. The holiday festivities commence on Christmas Eve and conclude after New Year. The day between Christmas and New Year's Eve is marked as Boxing Day. Observed on the day following Christmas, Boxing Day, contrary to its name, has no association with the sport. Initially established as a day to bestow gifts upon the less fortunate, it has evolved into a widely recognised 'shopping holiday.' History Boxing Day is specifically observed in the United Kingdom and various other regions globally, including Canada, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. However, it is not widely recognised in the United States. The term originates from an era when affluent individuals boxed up gifts to give to those who are poor. In historical times, it was customary for the servants of wealthy individuals to work on Christmas, catering to guests and celebrations. In appreciation for their dedicated service, employers would assemble gift boxes for the servants to take home on the day following Christmas as a token of gratitude. This practice is the origin of the term Boxing Day. Significance Boxing Day holds historical significance rooted in the tradition of giving back to those in need. This day is to glorify the fact that sharing is caring. The practice symbolised a form of charity and generosity during the Christmas season. Over time, Boxing Day has evolved into a public holiday observed in various countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and others. It is often associated with shopping, sports events, and charitable activities. In some cultures, it continues to be a day dedicated to acts of kindness, giving to the less fortunate, and spending time with family and friends. While the historical context may have shifted, Boxing Day remains a day of diverse celebrations and a continuation of the spirit of generosity. (With inputs from agencies)

Boxing Day 2023: Why the day was formed, History, and its significance

<p>For nearly seven decades, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), a joint organisation between the United States and Canada which is responsible for tracking everything flying in and around the two countries, has also been fulfilling its mission to track when you will receive your present from Santa Claus on Christmas.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Track Santa on his journey across the world</strong></h2>

<p>In continuation of its decades-long tradition of tracking Santa’s whereabouts and helping children around the world find out when his reindeer-powered, present-filled sleigh is coming to their town, NORAD’s Santa tracker is now live.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-feel-sad-bethlehem-the-birthplace-of-jesus-marks-sombre-christmas-celebration-with-vigil-amid-gaza-war-673157">‘We feel sad’: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, marks sombre Christmas Eve amid Gaza war</a></strong></p>

<p>The 3-D, interactive website at www.noradsanta.org shows Santa and his reindeer on their imagined worldwide delivery route. It also allows users to learn about different cities across the world and features interactive games, videos, and educational content to engage children.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How did this Christmas tradition begin?</strong></h2>

<p>The story of how the tracker came to be dates to 1955 when a Colorado newspaper advertisement printed a phone number to connect children with Santa but accidentally directed them to the hotline for the military centre.</p>

<p>A child then dialled the unlisted phone number of the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) Operations Center in Colorado Springs in the US state of Colorado, believing she was calling Santa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To avoid disappointing the children calling, NORAD's director of operations at the time, Colonel Harry Shoup, ordered his staff to check the radar to see where Santa might be and update the children on his location.</p>

<p>From there, a tradition which is now in its 68th year, began.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-develop-wireless-charger-that-can-be-fitted-inside-human-body-673045">Scientists develop wireless charger that can be fitted inside human body, dissolve later</a></strong></p>

<p>The Santa Tracker has since become a global phenomenon, with people around the world eagerly awaiting its launch each year.</p>

<h2><strong>How does it work?</strong></h2>

<p>The Santa tracking operation begins on Christmas Eve when radar stations pick up an infrared signal emanating from Rudolph, Santa’s favourite “Red Nose” reindeer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Like every year,&nbsp;NORAD also continued the tradition of setting up a temporary call centre out of its base in&nbsp;Colorado&nbsp;to answer children's burning questions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Major General Allan M Pepin, who is in the midst of coordinating his first mission with NORAD’s Santa Tracker, in an interview with Reuters, said how he takes this task seriously, especially as a grandfather to a two-year-old.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainians-to-officially-celebrate-christmas-on-december-25-for-the-first-time-in-snub-to-russia-673201">Ukrainians to officially celebrate Christmas on December 25 for the first time, in snub to Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>“For me now, as a grandfather to a two-year-old, this is my first time doing it, first time inside this headquarters. So it’s my honour to participate in the same way because we know this can bring smiles to people and there’s one thing you can not have enough of - a kid smiling, parents smiling, and bringing that family together for this special time.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the US Army official, the planning starts months in advance and includes civilians, military from the command, and many volunteers from the community and sponsors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The planning for the next year also begins as soon as this year’s Christmas ends, he told Reuters, adding, “That’s how important this is for the community.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


For nearly seven decades, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), a joint organisation between the United States and Canada which is responsible for tracking everything flying in and around the two countries, has also been fulfilling its mission to track when you will receive your present from Santa Claus on Christmas.

For nearly seven decades, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), a joint organisation between the United States and Canada which is responsible for tracking everything flying in and around the two countries, has also been fulfilling its mission to track when you will receive your present from Santa Claus on Christmas. Track Santa on his journey across the world In continuation of its decades-long tradition of tracking Santa’s whereabouts and helping children around the world find out when his reindeer-powered, present-filled sleigh is coming to their town, NORAD’s Santa tracker is now live. ALSO READ | ‘We feel sad’: Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, marks sombre Christmas Eve amid Gaza war The 3-D, interactive website at www.noradsanta.org shows Santa and his reindeer on their imagined worldwide delivery route. It also allows users to learn about different cities across the world and features interactive games, videos, and educational content to engage children. How did this Christmas tradition begin? The story of how the tracker came to be dates to 1955 when a Colorado newspaper advertisement printed a phone number to connect children with Santa but accidentally directed them to the hotline for the military centre. A child then dialled the unlisted phone number of the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) Operations Center in Colorado Springs in the US state of Colorado, believing she was calling Santa. To avoid disappointing the children calling, NORAD's director of operations at the time, Colonel Harry Shoup, ordered his staff to check the radar to see where Santa might be and update the children on his location. From there, a tradition which is now in its 68th year, began. ALSO READ | Scientists develop wireless charger that can be fitted inside human body, dissolve later The Santa Tracker has since become a global phenomenon, with people around the world eagerly awaiting its launch each year. How does it work? The Santa tracking operation begins on Christmas Eve when radar stations pick up an infrared signal emanating from Rudolph, Santa’s favourite “Red Nose” reindeer. Like every year, NORAD also continued the tradition of setting up a temporary call centre out of its base in Colorado to answer children's burning questions. Major General Allan M Pepin, who is in the midst of coordinating his first mission with NORAD’s Santa Tracker, in an interview with Reuters, said how he takes this task seriously, especially as a grandfather to a two-year-old. ALSO READ | Ukrainians to officially celebrate Christmas on December 25 for the first time, in snub to Russia “For me now, as a grandfather to a two-year-old, this is my first time doing it, first time inside this headquarters. So it’s my honour to participate in the same way because we know this can bring smiles to people and there’s one thing you can not have enough of - a kid smiling, parents smiling, and bringing that family together for this special time.” According to the US Army official, the planning starts months in advance and includes civilians, military from the command, and many volunteers from the community and sponsors. The planning for the next year also begins as soon as this year’s Christmas ends, he told Reuters, adding, “That’s how important this is for the community.” (With inputs from agencies)

Where is Santa? US-Canada military 'track' his gift-giving journey across the world

As the holiday season unfolds Santa Claus has embarked on his yearly global voyage from the enchanting North Pole spreading joy and delivering gifts to children across the world. Keeping the magic alive North American Aerospace Defense Command has its official tracker on standby ready to follow Santa's Whimsical Journey this Christmas.

US-Canada military 'track' Santa's gift giving journey across the world

<p>A day after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau hinted at a "tonal shift" in relations with India, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi responded, stressing&nbsp;the core issue with Canada lies in providing space to separatists, terrorists, and anti-India elements.</p>

<p>MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi reiterated India's consistent stance, highlighting concerns about the space given to extremists and anti-India elements in Canada. The response aimed to clarify New Delhi's perspective on the ongoing challenges in bilateral relations.</p>

<p>"Our position has been consistent. We have highlighted how we see the problem and frankly, the core issue remains the space that is given to extremists, terrorists and anti-India elements in that country," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said on Thursday (Dec 21).</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attacks-against-canada-wont-justin-trudeau-says-tonal-shift-in-ties-with-india-671891">Also read |&nbsp;‘Attacks against Canada won’t make problem go away’, says Trudeau, cites 'tonal shift' on India’s part</a></p>

<h2><strong>Trudeau's remarks and India's expectations</strong></h2>

<p>Trudeau had suggested a perceived shift in relations with India, referencing the United States' accusation of Indian government officials plotting the murder of separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Bagchi, while refraining from acknowledging a shift, expressed the hope that Canada would take action against extremist elements misusing freedom of speech and expression.</p>

<p>India-Canada relations soured when Trudeau accused Indian agents of conspiring to kill Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia. India dismissed the charges as absurd, leading to a strained diplomatic environment.</p>

<p>Trudeau acknowledged a beginning of understanding, suggesting a more collaborative approach and openness compared to previous interactions. He noted that mere verbal attacks by Canada might not resolve the issues and expressed a desire to avoid a conflict with India.</p>

<p>"I think there is a beginning of an understanding that they cannot bluster their way through this and there is an openness to collaborating in a way that perhaps they were less open before," Trudeau said on Wednesday.</p>

<p>"There is an understanding that maybe, maybe just churning out attacks against Canada is not going to make this problem go away. We do not want to be in a situation of having a fight with India right now over this," Trudeau added.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Canada PM Justin Trudeau's tanking approval ratings</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/canada-pm-justin-trudeaus-tanking-approval-ratings-667974/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Trudeau referred to a recent US indictment accusing a man named Nikhil Gupta of collaborating with Indian government employees to plot Pannun's murder. India has initiated an inquiry committee to examine inputs from the US, reiterating that Canada's allegations lack equitable treatment due to a lack of evidence.</p>

<p>The exchange reflects the complex dynamics between India and Canada, encompassing accusations, diplomatic challenges, and a nuanced approach by both nations to navigate contentious issues.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A day after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau hinted at a "tonal shift" in relations with India, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi responded, stressing the core issue with Canada lies in providing space to separatists, terrorists, and anti-India elements.

A day after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau hinted at a "tonal shift" in relations with India, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi responded, stressing the core issue with Canada lies in providing space to separatists, terrorists, and anti-India elements. MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi reiterated India's consistent stance, highlighting concerns about the space given to extremists and anti-India elements in Canada. The response aimed to clarify New Delhi's perspective on the ongoing challenges in bilateral relations. "Our position has been consistent. We have highlighted how we see the problem and frankly, the core issue remains the space that is given to extremists, terrorists and anti-India elements in that country," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said on Thursday (Dec 21). Also read | ‘Attacks against Canada won’t make problem go away’, says Trudeau, cites 'tonal shift' on India’s part Trudeau's remarks and India's expectations Trudeau had suggested a perceived shift in relations with India, referencing the United States' accusation of Indian government officials plotting the murder of separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Bagchi, while refraining from acknowledging a shift, expressed the hope that Canada would take action against extremist elements misusing freedom of speech and expression. India-Canada relations soured when Trudeau accused Indian agents of conspiring to kill Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia. India dismissed the charges as absurd, leading to a strained diplomatic environment. Trudeau acknowledged a beginning of understanding, suggesting a more collaborative approach and openness compared to previous interactions. He noted that mere verbal attacks by Canada might not resolve the issues and expressed a desire to avoid a conflict with India. "I think there is a beginning of an understanding that they cannot bluster their way through this and there is an openness to collaborating in a way that perhaps they were less open before," Trudeau said on Wednesday. "There is an understanding that maybe, maybe just churning out attacks against Canada is not going to make this problem go away. We do not want to be in a situation of having a fight with India right now over this," Trudeau added. Also watch | Canada PM Justin Trudeau's tanking approval ratings Trudeau referred to a recent US indictment accusing a man named Nikhil Gupta of collaborating with Indian government employees to plot Pannun's murder. India has initiated an inquiry committee to examine inputs from the US, reiterating that Canada's allegations lack equitable treatment due to a lack of evidence. The exchange reflects the complex dynamics between India and Canada, encompassing accusations, diplomatic challenges, and a nuanced approach by both nations to navigate contentious issues. (With inputs from agencies)

India accuses Canada of harbouring terrorists in response to Trudeau's hinted 'tonal shift' in relations

Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's comments are seen as a change in tone after months of rhetoric. He also says India's tone with the country has changed ever since Washington warned New Delhi of its role in a plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpawant Singh Pannun on American soil.

Canadian PM Trudeau: Tonal shift after US indictment against Indian official

<p>Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday (Dec 20) said that there has been a 'tonal shift' from India since an Indian government employee was accused by the United States of assigning an individual with the task of hiring an assassin to kill separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.<br />
<br />
Speaking in an interview with CBC, Trudeau said that there was an understanding that "they can't bluster their way through this".<br />
<br />
As per Trudeau, some unidentified Indian agents were involved in plotting the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June in Canada. The claim has been outrightly rejected by the Indian government and they have demanded evidence from Ottawa.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-sikh-driver-flees-to-india-after-being-convicted-for-smuggling-cocaine-669769">Canada: Sikh driver flees to India after being convicted for smuggling cocaine</a></p>

<p>"I think there is a beginning of an understanding that they can't bluster their way through this and there is an openness to collaborating in a way that perhaps they were less open before," said Trudeau, speaking in an interview with the Canadian Broadcasting Corp.<br />
<br />
"There's an understanding that maybe, maybe just churning out attacks against Canada isn't going to make this problem go away," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>Canada doesn't wish to fight with India: Trudeau</strong></h2>

<p>In a US indictment, it was alleged that $100,000 was offered to a man, called Nikhil Gupta, by Indian officials for hiring an assassin to kill Pannun in New York. Although the claim of Canada was rejected by India, it added that they were taking the indictment seriously.<br />
<br />
Trudeau further added that Canada is not willing to fight with India even though China has continued to assert its dominance in the Indo-Pacific region.<br />
<br />
"We don't want to be in a situation of having a fight with India right now over this. We want to be working on that trade deal. We want to be advancing the Indo-Pacific strategy," Trudeau said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Jaishankar clears the air on diplomatic rows with US and Canada</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jaishankar-clears-the-air-on-diplomatic-rows-with-us-and-canada-670832/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while speaking in an interview with Financial Times,&nbsp;expressed his deep concern over the activities carried out by some extremist groups based overseas. “These elements, under the guise of freedom of expression, have engaged in intimidation and incited violence,” Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi said that the country is committed to the rule of law. However, he said that a few incidents will not derail the US-India ties.<br />
<br />
“If someone gives us any information, we would definitely look into it. If a citizen of ours has done anything good or bad, we are ready to look into it. Our commitment is to the rule of law,” Modi said.<br />
<br />
<em>With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday (Dec 20) said that there has been a 'tonal shift' from India since an Indian government employee was accused by the United States of assigning an individual with the task of hiring an assassin to kill separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday (Dec 20) said that there has been a 'tonal shift' from India since an Indian government employee was accused by the United States of assigning an individual with the task of hiring an assassin to kill separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Speaking in an interview with CBC, Trudeau said that there was an understanding that "they can't bluster their way through this". As per Trudeau, some unidentified Indian agents were involved in plotting the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June in Canada. The claim has been outrightly rejected by the Indian government and they have demanded evidence from Ottawa. Also read: Canada: Sikh driver flees to India after being convicted for smuggling cocaine "I think there is a beginning of an understanding that they can't bluster their way through this and there is an openness to collaborating in a way that perhaps they were less open before," said Trudeau, speaking in an interview with the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. "There's an understanding that maybe, maybe just churning out attacks against Canada isn't going to make this problem go away," he said. Canada doesn't wish to fight with India: Trudeau In a US indictment, it was alleged that $100,000 was offered to a man, called Nikhil Gupta, by Indian officials for hiring an assassin to kill Pannun in New York. Although the claim of Canada was rejected by India, it added that they were taking the indictment seriously. Trudeau further added that Canada is not willing to fight with India even though China has continued to assert its dominance in the Indo-Pacific region. "We don't want to be in a situation of having a fight with India right now over this. We want to be working on that trade deal. We want to be advancing the Indo-Pacific strategy," Trudeau said. Watch: Jaishankar clears the air on diplomatic rows with US and Canada Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while speaking in an interview with Financial Times, expressed his deep concern over the activities carried out by some extremist groups based overseas. “These elements, under the guise of freedom of expression, have engaged in intimidation and incited violence,” Modi said. PM Modi said that the country is committed to the rule of law. However, he said that a few incidents will not derail the US-India ties. “If someone gives us any information, we would definitely look into it. If a citizen of ours has done anything good or bad, we are ready to look into it. Our commitment is to the rule of law,” Modi said. With inputs from agencies)

‘Attacks against Canada won’t make problem go away’, says Trudeau, cites 'tonal shift' on India’s part

Trudeau on Pannun Murder Plot: US indictment triggered a change | World News | WION

Calling India an important strategic partner, the White House once again called for full investigation into alleged failed plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's comments on are seen as a change in tone after months of rhetoric. He also says India's tone with the country has changed ever since Washington warned New Delhi of its role in a plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpawant Singh Pannun on American soil.

Pannun Murder Plot: Canada PM tones down rhetoric on India | World DNA | WION

Following the US warning to New Delhi about its suspected role in a failed plan to murder a Sikh separatist leader on US soil, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he has observed a "tonal shift" in India's stance towards Ottawa.

India-Canada ties: Canada's PM sees change in India's tone after US involvement |Pannun murder plot

Calling India an important strategic partner, the White House once again called for full investigation into alleged failed plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's comments are seen as a change in tone after months of rhetoric. He also says India's tone with the country has changed ever since Washington warned New Delhi of its role in a plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpawant Singh Pannun on American soil.

Canada's PM changes tone on India | Pannun Murder Plot

According to Canadian broadcaster CBC, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that he thought there had been a "tonal shift" in relations between Ottawa and New Delhi following US claims of a plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on US grounds.

Canada-India ties over Pannun murder plot: Trudeau claims involvement of US changed India's stance

Recent allegations of Indian involvement in the death of a Khalistani activist have triggered a diplomatic showdown between India and Canada. India's firm stance against all forms of terrorism and its expectation of Western support has set the stage for a prolonged standoff. This dispute has the potential to strain relations further, and it highlights the complexities of addressing terrorism on a global scale. Vikram Chandra tells you more.

India-Canada row: India always open to look at inputs, says Jaishankar

India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Sunday (Dec 17) opened up about allegations made by the United States and Canada regarding pro-Khalistani elements saying that both the issues were not the same.

Jaishankar clears the air on diplomatic rows with US and Canada

<p>How and when did humans get to North America? It is arguably one of the most hotly debated topics in archaeology. There have been many theories and studies over the years, and a recent study suggests that sea ice may have played a role in one way for people to move farther south.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Traditionally, scientists have believed that around 13,000 years ago, Stone Age hunters made their way across a land bridge between eastern Siberia and western Alaska and eventually walked their way to an ice-free corridor that briefly opened between ice sheets during this time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, recent findings, including human footprints in New Mexico which date back to 23,000 years have once again reignited the debate since the discoveries suggest that people made their way onto the continent much earlier.</p>

<h2><strong>What does the recent study propose?</strong></h2>

<p>Research presented on December 15 at the American Geophysical Union Annual Meeting (AGU23) suggests that sea ice may have been one way for people to move thousands of years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-tiny-telescope-discovers-seven-hot-jupiters-millions-of-light-years-away-670508">NASA’s tiny telescope discovers seven hot Jupiters millions of light-years away</a></strong></p>

<p>While the idea that early Americans may have travelled along the Pacific Coast isn’t new, the conditions were not exactly favourable. In 2020, researchers noted that freshwater from melting glaciers at the time may have created a strong current which would make it difficult for people to travel along the coast.</p>

<p>In line with this, Summer Praetorius the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and her team tried to study climate proxies in ocean sediment from the coast. Archaeologists have previously found evidence of coastal settlements as early as 14,000 years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although most of the data for Praetorius’ study came from tiny, fossilised plankton, researchers also used climate models to check ocean currents at the time. The abundance and chemistry of these organisms helped scientists reconstruct ocean temperatures, salinity, and sea ice cover.</p>

<h2><strong>What did they find?</strong></h2>

<p>Praetorious’ team found that ocean currents were twice the strength they are today at the height of the last glacial maximum around 20,000 years ago due to glacial winds and lower sea levels, conditions which would have made travelling by boat nearly impossible.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/iss-astronaut-snaps-photos-of-icebergs-a-reminder-of-climate-change-670133">ISS astronaut snaps photos of icebergs - a reminder of climate change</a></strong></p>

<p>Therefore, Praetorius suggests that since&nbsp;people back then who were adapted to the cold, would “rather than having to paddle against this horrible glacial current, maybe they were using the sea ice as a platform.” Similar to how people living in the Arctic travel along sea ice on dog sleds and snowmobiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Early Americans could have used the ‘sea ice highway’ to get around and hunt marine mammals, slowly making their way into North America in the process, said Praetorius.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While proving this will be difficult given that most of the archaeological sites are underwater, the recently proposed theory does provide a new framework.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The USGS scientist also noted that the sea ice highway isn’t mutually exclusive with other human migrations which took place later since their models show the Alaskan current had calmed down by 14,000 years ago, making it easier for people to travel by boat along the coast.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


How and when did humans get to North America? It is arguably one of the most hotly debated topics in archaeology. There have been many theories and studies over the years, and a recent study suggests that sea ice may have played a role in one way for people to move farther south.

How and when did humans get to North America? It is arguably one of the most hotly debated topics in archaeology. There have been many theories and studies over the years, and a recent study suggests that sea ice may have played a role in one way for people to move farther south. Traditionally, scientists have believed that around 13,000 years ago, Stone Age hunters made their way across a land bridge between eastern Siberia and western Alaska and eventually walked their way to an ice-free corridor that briefly opened between ice sheets during this time. However, recent findings, including human footprints in New Mexico which date back to 23,000 years have once again reignited the debate since the discoveries suggest that people made their way onto the continent much earlier. What does the recent study propose? Research presented on December 15 at the American Geophysical Union Annual Meeting (AGU23) suggests that sea ice may have been one way for people to move thousands of years ago. ALSO READ | NASA’s tiny telescope discovers seven hot Jupiters millions of light-years away While the idea that early Americans may have travelled along the Pacific Coast isn’t new, the conditions were not exactly favourable. In 2020, researchers noted that freshwater from melting glaciers at the time may have created a strong current which would make it difficult for people to travel along the coast. In line with this, Summer Praetorius the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and her team tried to study climate proxies in ocean sediment from the coast. Archaeologists have previously found evidence of coastal settlements as early as 14,000 years ago. Although most of the data for Praetorius’ study came from tiny, fossilised plankton, researchers also used climate models to check ocean currents at the time. The abundance and chemistry of these organisms helped scientists reconstruct ocean temperatures, salinity, and sea ice cover. What did they find? Praetorious’ team found that ocean currents were twice the strength they are today at the height of the last glacial maximum around 20,000 years ago due to glacial winds and lower sea levels, conditions which would have made travelling by boat nearly impossible. ALSO READ | ISS astronaut snaps photos of icebergs - a reminder of climate change Therefore, Praetorius suggests that since people back then who were adapted to the cold, would “rather than having to paddle against this horrible glacial current, maybe they were using the sea ice as a platform.” Similar to how people living in the Arctic travel along sea ice on dog sleds and snowmobiles. Early Americans could have used the ‘sea ice highway’ to get around and hunt marine mammals, slowly making their way into North America in the process, said Praetorius. While proving this will be difficult given that most of the archaeological sites are underwater, the recently proposed theory does provide a new framework. The USGS scientist also noted that the sea ice highway isn’t mutually exclusive with other human migrations which took place later since their models show the Alaskan current had calmed down by 14,000 years ago, making it easier for people to travel by boat along the coast. (With inputs from agencies)

Study suggests first people reached North America via ‘sea ice highway’ around 24,000 years ago

<p>A Canadian youth was charged and arrested with terrorism related offences in connection with antisemitism activity, which has been witnessing&nbsp;a spike across the world after the Israel-Hamas war.</p>

<p>The police arrested the youth, whose information has not been shared citing the accused’s age, on Friday (Dec 15) for facilitating terrorist activity by communicating instructional material related to an explosive substance, CTV News reported.</p>

<p>The accused is further charged with knowingly instructing a person to carry out terrorist activity against "Jewish persons”, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police said in a press release.</p>

<p>Noting the rise of using the internet in terrorism-related activities, the police said it has arrested five young people on such offences since June 2023.</p>

<p>The police said that these activities are especially prevalent among young people, urging the adults in authority positions to watch for early warning signs of radicalisation.</p>

<h2>Mayor asks police to tighten security around Jewish institutions&nbsp;</h2>

<p>“Those include dehumanisation of others, extreme anti-government attitudes and clear statements of intention to carry out violent acts,” the statement added.</p>

<p>Reacting to the development,&nbsp;Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe expressed shock over the incident and asked the police to tighten security around synagogues and other Jewish institutions.</p>

<p>“I was shocked to learn the details of a planned attack against Ottawa's Jewish community,” Sutcliffe said on X.</p>

<p>“There has been a rise in antisemitism in Ottawa in recent weeks.”</p>

<p>He added he was grateful that strong investigative work by the RCMP and Ottawa police was able to avert an attack. He said police would continue to patrol synagogues and other Jewish institutions.</p>

<h2><strong>Rise of hate crimes in Canada after Oct 7 attack</strong></h2>

<p>The Canadian authorities have been witnessing a rise in hate crimes against Jewish and Muslim communities since the October 7 deadly surprise attack in Israel by Hamas, prompting that country's military offensive in Gaza.</p>

<p><strong>Also read </strong>|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-hostages-mistakenly-killed-by-idf-were-waving-white-flag-when-troops-shot-them-reveals-initial-probe-670436">Israeli hostages mistakenly killed by IDF were waving white flag, finds probe</a></p>

<p>Many metropolitan cities like Toronto, which is house to Canada's largest Jewish population and Muslim population, have reported almost double the number of hate crimes in October compared to the same period last year.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-60-including-women-and-children-drown-after-shipwreck-off-libya-says-iom-670455">More than 60 people, including women, kids, drown in shipwreck off Libya: IOM</a></p>

<p>The city's police chief, Myron Demkiw, said there were 15 reported antisemitic hate crimes for the period of Oct&nbsp;7 to 25 compared to seven in the same time frame in 2022 and three in 2021.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A Canadian youth was charged and arrested with terrorism related offences in connection with antisemitism activity, which has been witnessing a spike across the world after the Israel-Hamas war.

A Canadian youth was charged and arrested with terrorism related offences in connection with antisemitism activity, which has been witnessing a spike across the world after the Israel-Hamas war. The police arrested the youth, whose information has not been shared citing the accused’s age, on Friday (Dec 15) for facilitating terrorist activity by communicating instructional material related to an explosive substance, CTV News reported. The accused is further charged with knowingly instructing a person to carry out terrorist activity against "Jewish persons”, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police said in a press release. Noting the rise of using the internet in terrorism-related activities, the police said it has arrested five young people on such offences since June 2023. The police said that these activities are especially prevalent among young people, urging the adults in authority positions to watch for early warning signs of radicalisation. Mayor asks police to tighten security around Jewish institutions “Those include dehumanisation of others, extreme anti-government attitudes and clear statements of intention to carry out violent acts,” the statement added. Reacting to the development, Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe expressed shock over the incident and asked the police to tighten security around synagogues and other Jewish institutions. “I was shocked to learn the details of a planned attack against Ottawa's Jewish community,” Sutcliffe said on X. “There has been a rise in antisemitism in Ottawa in recent weeks.” He added he was grateful that strong investigative work by the RCMP and Ottawa police was able to avert an attack. He said police would continue to patrol synagogues and other Jewish institutions. Rise of hate crimes in Canada after Oct 7 attack The Canadian authorities have been witnessing a rise in hate crimes against Jewish and Muslim communities since the October 7 deadly surprise attack in Israel by Hamas, prompting that country's military offensive in Gaza. Also read | Israeli hostages mistakenly killed by IDF were waving white flag, finds probe Many metropolitan cities like Toronto, which is house to Canada's largest Jewish population and Muslim population, have reported almost double the number of hate crimes in October compared to the same period last year. Also read | More than 60 people, including women, kids, drown in shipwreck off Libya: IOM The city's police chief, Myron Demkiw, said there were 15 reported antisemitic hate crimes for the period of Oct 7 to 25 compared to seven in the same time frame in 2022 and three in 2021. (With inputs from agencies)

Canadian youth arrested on terrorism charges for targeting Jewish community

<p>Hidden beneath the lush forest coverage of Canada's Vancouver Island, researchers have uncovered a new geological threat—a 45-mile fault line known as the XEOLXELEK-Elk Lake fault (XELF).</p>

<p>Geologists, mineralogists, and Earth and ocean scientists, prompted by evidence of an ancient earthquake on the Saanich Peninsula between 4,700 and 2,300 years ago, now say that there is a tsunami risk this newly discovered fault poses.</p>

<p>"In the northern Cascadia forearc on the west coast of North America, high-resolution topography and geologic mapping show a [approximately] 2.3-m-high scarp across a [approximately] 14,000-year-old land surface 10 km [6.2 miles] north of downtown Victoria, British Columbia, Canada," revealed the international team of researchers from France, the US, and Canada.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sun-releases-strong-x-class-solar-flare-most-powerful-since-2017-669820">Also Read | Sun releases strongest X-class solar flare since 2017, radio blackout reported over Americas</a></p>

<p>Finding the fault line initially proved challenging due to the dense forest but extensive research methodologies such as shallow geophysical surveys, historical image analysis, and remote sensing proved fruitful in gaining insights.</p>

<p>The team identified minerals in the rocks indicating changes in the magnetic field over time—a clear sign of rock formations being pulled apart or broken, strongly implying the presence of a fault line.</p>

<h2><strong>What are the implications?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>If an earthquake were to occur along this fault line, it could unleash a tsunami with catastrophic consequences for approximately 400,000 inhabitants in the Greater Victoria region of Canada and potentially impact cities along the US West Coast, including Seattle, Bellingham, Olympia, and Tacoma, the findings of the report said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/james-webb-spots-record-breaking-small-rare-kind-of-brown-failed-star-669808">James Webb spots record-breaking small, rare kind of brown 'failed' star</a></p>

<p>"This newly identified fault, the XEOLXELEK-Elk Lake fault (XELF), crosses Saanich Peninsula within Greater Victoria and poses a hazard to the region's [approximately] 400,000 inhabitants," as per the researchers.</p>

<p>The fault, which runs northwest to southeast for about 45 miles, maybe a slip-dip fault, where rocks move vertically up and down against each other. According to the researchers, a seismic event at this fault line could trigger a local tsunami in the waters surrounding Greater Victoria.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/denmark-festive-kayaks-light-up-copenhagens-canals-669822">Denmark: Festive kayaks light up Copenhagen's canals</a></strong></p>

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<p>The most recent earthquake from this fault line was seen several thousand years ago and had a magnitude of between 6.1 and 7.6. It is possible that the event caused a tsunami as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Determining whether it produced recent large earthquakes is important for updating regional earthquake hazard models and increasing earthquake preparedness," the researchers said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Hidden beneath the lush forest coverage of Canada's Vancouver Island, researchers have uncovered a new geological threat—a 45-mile fault line known as the XEOLXELEK-Elk Lake fault (XELF).

Hidden beneath the lush forest coverage of Canada's Vancouver Island, researchers have uncovered a new geological threat—a 45-mile fault line known as the XEOLXELEK-Elk Lake fault (XELF). Geologists, mineralogists, and Earth and ocean scientists, prompted by evidence of an ancient earthquake on the Saanich Peninsula between 4,700 and 2,300 years ago, now say that there is a tsunami risk this newly discovered fault poses. "In the northern Cascadia forearc on the west coast of North America, high-resolution topography and geologic mapping show a [approximately] 2.3-m-high scarp across a [approximately] 14,000-year-old land surface 10 km [6.2 miles] north of downtown Victoria, British Columbia, Canada," revealed the international team of researchers from France, the US, and Canada. Also Read | Sun releases strongest X-class solar flare since 2017, radio blackout reported over Americas Finding the fault line initially proved challenging due to the dense forest but extensive research methodologies such as shallow geophysical surveys, historical image analysis, and remote sensing proved fruitful in gaining insights. The team identified minerals in the rocks indicating changes in the magnetic field over time—a clear sign of rock formations being pulled apart or broken, strongly implying the presence of a fault line. What are the implications? If an earthquake were to occur along this fault line, it could unleash a tsunami with catastrophic consequences for approximately 400,000 inhabitants in the Greater Victoria region of Canada and potentially impact cities along the US West Coast, including Seattle, Bellingham, Olympia, and Tacoma, the findings of the report said. Also Read | James Webb spots record-breaking small, rare kind of brown 'failed' star "This newly identified fault, the XEOLXELEK-Elk Lake fault (XELF), crosses Saanich Peninsula within Greater Victoria and poses a hazard to the region's [approximately] 400,000 inhabitants," as per the researchers. The fault, which runs northwest to southeast for about 45 miles, maybe a slip-dip fault, where rocks move vertically up and down against each other. According to the researchers, a seismic event at this fault line could trigger a local tsunami in the waters surrounding Greater Victoria. Watch | Denmark: Festive kayaks light up Copenhagen's canals × The most recent earthquake from this fault line was seen several thousand years ago and had a magnitude of between 6.1 and 7.6. It is possible that the event caused a tsunami as well. "Determining whether it produced recent large earthquakes is important for updating regional earthquake hazard models and increasing earthquake preparedness," the researchers said. (With inputs from agencies)

Tsunami fears in Canada's Vancouver Island after discovery of 45-mile hidden fault line

<p>Canadian authorities are on the lookout for a 60-year-old Sikh truck driver who fled to India after he was convicted of smuggling nearly 80 kg of cocaine into Canada from the United States, reported the local media.</p>

<p>Raj Kumar Mehmi was sentenced to 15-year-imprisonment in absentia by a provincial court in British Columbia earlier in November this year after he was arrested in the year 2017 for smuggling a controlled substance, the CBC reported on Wednesday (Dec 13).</p>

<p>However, on Oct 11, just a month before he could be sentenced, he boarded a flight to New Delhi from Vancouver,&nbsp;reported the&nbsp;Vancouver Sun.</p>

<p>Arash Seyed, a spokesman with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police's (RCMP) federal serious and organised crime division said that a Canada-wide warrant has been issued for Mehmi.</p>

<p>"If you locate this suspect or have information regarding his whereabouts, please do not approach him and contact your local police agency," Seyed said announcing the warrant in Surrey on Wednesday, as per CBC.</p>

<p>A red notice has also been issued in his name which asks member countries to help locate, arrest and extradite Mehmi to face criminal charges in Canada.</p>

<p>Mehmi, in a separate release, was described as 185cm in height (just over six feet tall) and weighing 91 kilogrammes.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vivek-ramaswamys-response-on-being-asked-if-us-can-accept-hindu-president-takes-internet-by-storm-669659">Will US accept Hindu president? Ramaswamy answers critical question and says 'won't fake identity'</a></p>

<p>“Our officers are the first line of defence in keeping illicit drugs from crossing Canada’s borders and we are proud to work with the RCMP to ensure those who break our laws are held accountable. The seizure of over $3 million of cocaine at our Pacific Highway border crossing and the subsequent 15-year conviction is a direct result of the strong partnership between our organisations and the diligent work of our officers,” CBSA Pacific Region director Holly Stoner said.</p>

<h2><strong>80 bricks of cocaine discovered in Mehmi's truck</strong></h2>

<p>Mehmi's truck was stopped while he was at the Pacific Highway border crossing into Metro Vancouver, said the Canada Border Services Agency, as per CBC reports.</p>

<p>His truck was randomly selected by the officials for a secondary examination, which was when the drugs were discovered.</p>

<p>"During their search, CBSA officers found 80 bricks of cocaine inside the sleeper cab of the commercial vehicle," the agency's Pacific region director Holly Stoner said.</p>

<p>"The driver was arrested and taken into custody."</p>

<p>"There are certain conditions where an individual may be granted a passport, such as emergency situations," Seyed was quoted as saying by CBC.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Canadian authorities are on the lookout for a 60-year-old Sikh truck driver who fled to India after he was convicted of smuggling nearly 80 kg of cocaine into Canada from the United States, reported the local media.

Canadian authorities are on the lookout for a 60-year-old Sikh truck driver who fled to India after he was convicted of smuggling nearly 80 kg of cocaine into Canada from the United States, reported the local media. Raj Kumar Mehmi was sentenced to 15-year-imprisonment in absentia by a provincial court in British Columbia earlier in November this year after he was arrested in the year 2017 for smuggling a controlled substance, the CBC reported on Wednesday (Dec 13). However, on Oct 11, just a month before he could be sentenced, he boarded a flight to New Delhi from Vancouver, reported the Vancouver Sun. Arash Seyed, a spokesman with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police's (RCMP) federal serious and organised crime division said that a Canada-wide warrant has been issued for Mehmi. "If you locate this suspect or have information regarding his whereabouts, please do not approach him and contact your local police agency," Seyed said announcing the warrant in Surrey on Wednesday, as per CBC. A red notice has also been issued in his name which asks member countries to help locate, arrest and extradite Mehmi to face criminal charges in Canada. Mehmi, in a separate release, was described as 185cm in height (just over six feet tall) and weighing 91 kilogrammes. Also read: Will US accept Hindu president? Ramaswamy answers critical question and says 'won't fake identity' “Our officers are the first line of defence in keeping illicit drugs from crossing Canada’s borders and we are proud to work with the RCMP to ensure those who break our laws are held accountable. The seizure of over $3 million of cocaine at our Pacific Highway border crossing and the subsequent 15-year conviction is a direct result of the strong partnership between our organisations and the diligent work of our officers,” CBSA Pacific Region director Holly Stoner said. 80 bricks of cocaine discovered in Mehmi's truck Mehmi's truck was stopped while he was at the Pacific Highway border crossing into Metro Vancouver, said the Canada Border Services Agency, as per CBC reports. His truck was randomly selected by the officials for a secondary examination, which was when the drugs were discovered. "During their search, CBSA officers found 80 bricks of cocaine inside the sleeper cab of the commercial vehicle," the agency's Pacific region director Holly Stoner said. "The driver was arrested and taken into custody." "There are certain conditions where an individual may be granted a passport, such as emergency situations," Seyed was quoted as saying by CBC. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada: Sikh driver flees to India after being convicted for smuggling cocaine

<p>Black people in Canada's Toronto are immoderately being stopped and checked by police, a new report by the Ontario Human Rights Commission has found.</p>

<p>The commission’s report, which released on Thursday (Dec 14)&nbsp;concerning anti-Black racism incidents that take place within the Toronto Police Service, stated that even though the official street checks were fully eradicated from the system, Black people still reported being stopped and searched at a much larger frequency than the ones from other racial groups.</p>

<p>Nearly two years after the provincial regulation put a ban on the official street checks, a survey in 2019 found that around 40.4 per cent of Black respondents reported being stopped by the police at least once in the last two years, as compared to 24.7 per cent of white respondents and 24.9 per cent of Asian respondents, as per the Canadian Press reports.</p>

<p>The report highlighted that one of the problems was the presence of "significant gaps" between the provincial regulations and Toronto police policies and procedures that govern the interactions that take place between the public, particularly when it comes to stops and searches.</p>

<p>It also stated that Toronto police gathered and maintained "significant personal data" via the street checks before the provincial rules came into effect.</p>

<p>It further said that this data should be destroyed unless and until required for investigative purposes.</p>

<p>The commission has so far issued more than 100 recommendations to enhance police interactions with Black communities.</p>

<p>"I am cautiously optimistic that, if adopted, the OHRC's recommendations will help reduce systemic racism, improve public transparency and police oversight, and begin to foster a relationship of trust between the TPS and Toronto’s Black communities," Dr Scot Wortley, a professor of criminology and socio-legal studies at the University of Toronto who provided analysis for the report, wrote in a statement, according to the Canadian Press.</p>

<p>The probe into anti-Black racism within Toronto police was launched in the year 2017 and earlier released two interim reports – one in 2018 and one in 2020.</p>

<p>The report that came out in the year 2020 found that Black people were more likely than others to be arrested, charged or shot by the Toronto police.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Black people in Canada's Toronto are immoderately being stopped and checked by police, a new report by the Ontario Human Rights Commission has found. The commission’s report, which released on Thursday (Dec 14) concerning anti-Black racism incidents that take place within the Toronto Police Service, stated that even though the official street checks were fully eradicated from the system, Black people still reported being stopped and searched at a much larger frequency than the ones from other racial groups.

Black people in Canada's Toronto are immoderately being stopped and checked by police, a new report by the Ontario Human Rights Commission has found. The commission’s report, which released on Thursday (Dec 14) concerning anti-Black racism incidents that take place within the Toronto Police Service, stated that even though the official street checks were fully eradicated from the system, Black people still reported being stopped and searched at a much larger frequency than the ones from other racial groups. Nearly two years after the provincial regulation put a ban on the official street checks, a survey in 2019 found that around 40.4 per cent of Black respondents reported being stopped by the police at least once in the last two years, as compared to 24.7 per cent of white respondents and 24.9 per cent of Asian respondents, as per the Canadian Press reports. The report highlighted that one of the problems was the presence of "significant gaps" between the provincial regulations and Toronto police policies and procedures that govern the interactions that take place between the public, particularly when it comes to stops and searches. It also stated that Toronto police gathered and maintained "significant personal data" via the street checks before the provincial rules came into effect. It further said that this data should be destroyed unless and until required for investigative purposes. The commission has so far issued more than 100 recommendations to enhance police interactions with Black communities. "I am cautiously optimistic that, if adopted, the OHRC's recommendations will help reduce systemic racism, improve public transparency and police oversight, and begin to foster a relationship of trust between the TPS and Toronto’s Black communities," Dr Scot Wortley, a professor of criminology and socio-legal studies at the University of Toronto who provided analysis for the report, wrote in a statement, according to the Canadian Press. The probe into anti-Black racism within Toronto police was launched in the year 2017 and earlier released two interim reports – one in 2018 and one in 2020. The report that came out in the year 2020 found that Black people were more likely than others to be arrested, charged or shot by the Toronto police. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada: Black people immoderately stopped, checked by Toronto police, finds report

<p>A Canadian woman named Tracey Thompson, suffering from long Covid&nbsp;is seeking assisted suicide after the disease robbed her off of all her&nbsp;life savings and the ability to get out of bed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thompson applied for the country's legal euthanasia programme after it became apparent she was stuck with an incurable disease and that her condition would not improve.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"My quality of life with this illness is almost nonexistent, it’s not a good life.&nbsp;I don’t do anything. It is painfully boring. It’s profoundly isolating,” she was quoted as saying by DailyMail.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thompson hasn't been able to work a single day since 2020 when she first caught the virus. She is so sore and fatigued that she stays in bed for up to 22 hours a day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Her symptoms developed as an ordinary COVID-19 patient - losing her sense of taste and smell while developing a sore throat was the first stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-delays-euthanasia-for-mentally-ill-after-facing-criticism-544360"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Canada delays euthanasia for mentally ill after facing criticism</strong></a></p>

<p>However, a few months later, the illness caught up with her. Instead of getting better as most COVID-19 patients do, Thompson's health started deteriorating. In May 2020, she went to the doctors who couldn't diagnose her as nobody knew what long Covid was as the concept did not exist</p>

<p>As a result, she was sent back home and her health continued to tumble. In the fall of the same year, she had to be rushed to the hospital after suffering intense chest pains and struggling to catch her breath for over 36 hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thompson somehow managed to survive that particular onslaught but the treatment depleted her finances. With her health not improving, she kept losing money without any source of income.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-is-euthanasia-9164"><strong>Watch | What is euthanasia?</strong></a></p>

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<p>Once a professional chef and full of life, Thompson now mostly only consumes various medications and a meal replacement shake because long Covid has caused her to become “allergic to everything".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, in Canada, there are euthanasia&nbsp;rules which state that anyone suffering from an incurable medical condition can apply to die, even if the disease like long-Covid is not terminal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As a result, the programme, first introduced in 2016 remains a controversial topic in the country. It recently came under more scrutiny after the government considered adding another eligibility criterion: terminally ill minors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The change would allow those under the age of 18 to be euthanised, a procedure the current policy blocks.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A Canadian woman named Tracey Thompson, suffering from long Covid is seeking assisted suicide after the disease robbed her off of all her life savings and the ability to get out of bed.

A Canadian woman named Tracey Thompson, suffering from long Covid is seeking assisted suicide after the disease robbed her off of all her life savings and the ability to get out of bed. Thompson applied for the country's legal euthanasia programme after it became apparent she was stuck with an incurable disease and that her condition would not improve. "My quality of life with this illness is almost nonexistent, it’s not a good life. I don’t do anything. It is painfully boring. It’s profoundly isolating,” she was quoted as saying by DailyMail. Thompson hasn't been able to work a single day since 2020 when she first caught the virus. She is so sore and fatigued that she stays in bed for up to 22 hours a day. Her symptoms developed as an ordinary COVID-19 patient - losing her sense of taste and smell while developing a sore throat was the first stage. Also read | Canada delays euthanasia for mentally ill after facing criticism However, a few months later, the illness caught up with her. Instead of getting better as most COVID-19 patients do, Thompson's health started deteriorating. In May 2020, she went to the doctors who couldn't diagnose her as nobody knew what long Covid was as the concept did not exist As a result, she was sent back home and her health continued to tumble. In the fall of the same year, she had to be rushed to the hospital after suffering intense chest pains and struggling to catch her breath for over 36 hours. Thompson somehow managed to survive that particular onslaught but the treatment depleted her finances. With her health not improving, she kept losing money without any source of income. Watch | What is euthanasia? × Once a professional chef and full of life, Thompson now mostly only consumes various medications and a meal replacement shake because long Covid has caused her to become “allergic to everything". Notably, in Canada, there are euthanasia rules which state that anyone suffering from an incurable medical condition can apply to die, even if the disease like long-Covid is not terminal. As a result, the programme, first introduced in 2016 remains a controversial topic in the country. It recently came under more scrutiny after the government considered adding another eligibility criterion: terminally ill minors. The change would allow those under the age of 18 to be euthanised, a procedure the current policy blocks. (With inputs from agencies)

Tired of battling long Covid, Canadian woman applies for euthanasia

<p>The human-made possessions from about 7,000 years ago are being discovered from Mount Edziza, a volcano located in northwestern British Columbia in Canada.&nbsp;The site belonged to the Tahltan First Nations. With latest discoveries, the spotlight is back on what the life was around 5,000 BC.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What has been found so far?</strong></h2>

<p>Archaeologists have found containers crafted from birch bark,&nbsp;antler ice picks, tools carved from bones, walking sticks as well as a stitched boot.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>They are rare finds. According to Duncan McLaren, the lead archaeologist on the project to study the signs of human life thousands of years ago, the findings hold remarkable significance for the study of human ancestry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There was such a high density of artifacts. We knew there was obsidian, but we didn’t realise until we had done this project that there were all these organic artifacts that were preserved around the obsidian," he was quoted as saying by <em>Atlas Obscura</em>.</p>

<p>Notably, these objects were so well-preserved partly due to their remote location.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/escape-from-british-museum-chinese-tiktok-video-on-artefact-return-becomes-a-hit-632943">'Escape from British Museum': Chinese TikTok video on artefact return becomes a hit</a></strong></p>

<p>"This keeps visitor numbers low and also aids in the protection and preservation of artifacts," said David Karn while&nbsp;commenting on behalf of the Ministry of Environment to <em>Atlas Obscura</em>.</p>

<p>Noting the reason why these objects surfaced encapsulated in ice, researchers say it's the low snowback in the Canadian region over the period of time that kept it well preserved.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The excavation first began in 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: U.K secretly ships stolen artefacts to Cambodia</strong></p>

<p>McLaren's research team&nbsp;worked on exploratory project along&nbsp;with organisations, including the Obsidian Discoveries Tahltan Tene Mehodihi Youth Group Hike. <em>Tene mehodihi</em> translates to "<em>the trail we know</em>".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The education program aims to educate Tahltan youth about the history of their nation through exploratory experiences such as this one.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The human-made possessions from about 7,000 years ago are being discovered from Mount Edziza, a volcano located in northwestern British Columbia in Canada. The site belonged to the Tahltan First Nations.

The human-made possessions from about 7,000 years ago are being discovered from Mount Edziza, a volcano located in northwestern British Columbia in Canada. The site belonged to the Tahltan First Nations. With latest discoveries, the spotlight is back on what the life was around 5,000 BC. What has been found so far? Archaeologists have found containers crafted from birch bark, antler ice picks, tools carved from bones, walking sticks as well as a stitched boot. What does it mean? They are rare finds. According to Duncan McLaren, the lead archaeologist on the project to study the signs of human life thousands of years ago, the findings hold remarkable significance for the study of human ancestry. "There was such a high density of artifacts. We knew there was obsidian, but we didn’t realise until we had done this project that there were all these organic artifacts that were preserved around the obsidian," he was quoted as saying by Atlas Obscura. Notably, these objects were so well-preserved partly due to their remote location. Also read | 'Escape from British Museum': Chinese TikTok video on artefact return becomes a hit "This keeps visitor numbers low and also aids in the protection and preservation of artifacts," said David Karn while commenting on behalf of the Ministry of Environment to Atlas Obscura. Noting the reason why these objects surfaced encapsulated in ice, researchers say it's the low snowback in the Canadian region over the period of time that kept it well preserved. The excavation first began in 2019. Also watch | Gravitas: U.K secretly ships stolen artefacts to Cambodia McLaren's research team worked on exploratory project along with organisations, including the Obsidian Discoveries Tahltan Tene Mehodihi Youth Group Hike. Tene mehodihi translates to "the trail we know". The education program aims to educate Tahltan youth about the history of their nation through exploratory experiences such as this one. (With inputs from agencies)

Ancient stones trapped in ice give glimpse of how life was 7,000 years ago

<p>India has the world’s biggest diaspora, with most people living abroad out of any country in the world, as of 2020, according to the United Nations World Migration Report 2022. The Indian foreign ministry said a record number of Indians surrendered their passports last year, with most settling in the United States, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. But this might change soon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, Australia, Canada, and the UK have introduced visa restrictions which might impact tens of thousands of Indian students and workers who leave the country every year in search of better education and employment opportunities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Indian government data, the largest number of Indians who gave up Indian citizenship in 2021 settled in the United States (78,284), Australia (23,533), Canada (21,597), and the UK (14,637).</p>

<h2><strong>Australia</strong></h2>

<p>On Monday (Dec 11), the Australian government in a bid to “fix the broken immigration system,” said that it is restricting the intake of international students and low-skilled workers by tightening the visa rules. It will also tighten the English language test.&nbsp;The decision comes after net immigration was expected to have peaked at a record 510,000 in 2022-23, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-announces-stricter-visa-rules-for-students-workers-as-it-prepares-to-overhaul-immigration-system-668343">Australia announces stricter visa rules for students, workers as it prepares to overhaul immigration system</a></strong></p>

<p>Ahead of the formal release of the government’s strategy, Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil said the move is expected to halve Australia's&nbsp;migrant intake over the next two years. “We’ve worked around the clock to strike the best balance in Australia’s migration system,” said the Australian minister.</p>

<p>In line with the new rules, Canberra will require international students to achieve higher scores on English proficiency tests. The students applying for a graduate visa will require a score of 6.5 points, up from 6.0, while student visa applicants will need a 6.0, up from 5.5.</p>

<p>However, Australia’s High Commissioner to India, Philip Green, according to the Mint said, “Commitments agreed between India and Australia under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) will be upheld under the new migration Strategy.”</p>

<p>Indian graduates will be eligible to stay on a Temporary Graduate Visa for two years for a Bachelor’s degree, three years for the completion of a Masters’ degree, and four years for finishing a PhD.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-most-vital-partner-in-indian-ocean-australian-envoy-philip-green-to-wion-667859">India most vital partner in Indian ocean: Australian Envoy Philip Green to WION</a></strong></p>

<p>The Australian government said it would set up a new specialist visa for highly skilled workers which would cut the processing time to one week, in a bid to help businesses recruit top migrants amid tough competition with other developed economies.</p>

<p>Australia, which has become one of the tightest labour markets in the world, has been long reliant on immigration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government believes the new pathway, which will be open to eligible applicants earning at least $135,000 in any occupation aside from trade workers, machinery operators and drivers, and labourers, will add $3.4 billion to the country’s budget over the next decade.</p>

<h2><strong>Canada</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this month, the Canadian government’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that starting January 1, 2024, the cost-of-living financial requirement for study permit applicants will be raised to more than double.&nbsp;</p>

<p>International students will need to show they have access to US$15,219 (CAN$20,635) instead of the previous US$7,376 (CAN$10,000) which had been in place for around 20 years, in addition to paying for travel and tuition.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-400-indian-students-studying-abroad-died-since-2018-canada-with-highest-fatalies-centre-667453">Canada tops list of Indian student deaths abroad at 91, total fatalities since 2018 at 403</a></strong></p>

<p>The hike also comes as many international students are unable to keep up with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-sets-immigration-targets-for-2024-2026-with-view-to-contain-housing-woes-654371">rise in the cost of living</a>&nbsp;in Canada that has spiked over the past couple of years.</p>

<p>In addition to this announcement, IRCC Minister Marc Miller, on Thursday (Dec 7) also said that the measure which offers extended off-campus work hours will be extended till the end of April.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government had previously sought to limit the number of hours that international students can work while studying in Canada.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The waiver on the 20-hour-per-week limit on the number of hours international students are allowed to work off campus while class is in session will be extended to April 30, 2024,” said Miller.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The IRCC might set the limit to 30 hours per week moving forward, said Miller, while also ruling out the possibility of full-time work for international students while they are studying.&nbsp;</p>

<p>International education contributes more than $22 billion in economic activity every year and supports more than 200,000 jobs in Canada, according to the government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-student-speaks-to-wion-reveals-shocking-state-of-canadas-education-system-housing-and-health-infra-659409">Indian student speaks to WION, reveals shocking state of Canada's education system, housing and health infra</a></strong></p>

<p>Indian students already are set to deal with long delays for visa applications. This comes after Ottawa removed its 41 diplomats from New Delhi amid an ongoing diplomatic row.</p>

<p>Tensions rose following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s unfounded accusations of India’s involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>United Kingdom</strong></h2>

<p>The British government earlier this month announced tough new immigration rules as the country continues to grapple with high number of people moving to the UK legally and illegally.</p>

<p>The new package of measures has sought to reduce immigration each year by hundreds of thousands.</p>

<p>Home Secretary James Cleverly said he was taking “robust action” to lower authorised immigration which hit a record high in 2022.</p>

<p>“This package of measures will take place from next spring,” said Cleverly on December 4.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-diaspora-in-uk-outperforms-british-in-education-home-ownership-survey-573583">Indian diaspora in UK outperforms the Britons in education, home ownership: Survey</a></strong></p>

<p>The UK government plans to raise the minimum salary required for foreign workers to be eligible for a work visa by a third and make it more difficult for them to bring their families.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The minimum salary threshold for foreign skilled workers will be raised to $48,800 from $33,000. Meanwhile, British citizens who want to bring their foreign spouse to the UK will now have to earn the same amount, which is double the current threshold.</p>

<p>While health and social care, which are highly reliant on immigrant staff, are exempt from the salary rule, care workers from overseas will no longer be able to bring dependent relatives with them. The restriction has raised concerns in the industry that fewer will want to come to the UK.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Migrant workers were encouraged to come here because both sectors are critically short of staff. Hospitals and care homes simply couldn’t function without them,” said Christina McAnea, general secretary of the Unison trade union.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-are-indian-students-crossing-the-english-channel-to-enter-uk-on-small-boats-558460">Why are Indian students crossing the English Channel on small boats?</a></strong></p>

<p>She also called the measures a “total disaster” for health and the care sector. “Migrants will now head to more welcoming countries, rather than be forced to live without their families,” said McAnea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, starting in January, most foreign graduate students will no longer be able to bring family members to the UK. The measures have irked Indian students and business associations, who contribute significantly to the British economy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by London Economics, citing data from 2020-21, said international students put nearly 10 times more into the British economy than they take, with Indians representing the second largest cohort of international students coming to study in the UK.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The measures were announced amid mounting pressure on UK PM Rishi Sunak to act amid record net migration last year. The issue has dominated Britain’s political landscape for more than a decade and the incumbent PM has promised to crack down on irregular migration after tens of thousands of people arrived on small boats across the English Channel.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


India has the world’s biggest diaspora, with most people living abroad out of any country in the world, as of 2020, according to the United Nations World Migration Report 2022.

India has the world’s biggest diaspora, with most people living abroad out of any country in the world, as of 2020, according to the United Nations World Migration Report 2022. The Indian foreign ministry said a record number of Indians surrendered their passports last year, with most settling in the United States, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. But this might change soon. Recently, Australia, Canada, and the UK have introduced visa restrictions which might impact tens of thousands of Indian students and workers who leave the country every year in search of better education and employment opportunities. According to the Indian government data, the largest number of Indians who gave up Indian citizenship in 2021 settled in the United States (78,284), Australia (23,533), Canada (21,597), and the UK (14,637). Australia On Monday (Dec 11), the Australian government in a bid to “fix the broken immigration system,” said that it is restricting the intake of international students and low-skilled workers by tightening the visa rules. It will also tighten the English language test. The decision comes after net immigration was expected to have peaked at a record 510,000 in 2022-23, reported Reuters. ALSO READ | Australia announces stricter visa rules for students, workers as it prepares to overhaul immigration system Ahead of the formal release of the government’s strategy, Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil said the move is expected to halve Australia's migrant intake over the next two years. “We’ve worked around the clock to strike the best balance in Australia’s migration system,” said the Australian minister. In line with the new rules, Canberra will require international students to achieve higher scores on English proficiency tests. The students applying for a graduate visa will require a score of 6.5 points, up from 6.0, while student visa applicants will need a 6.0, up from 5.5. However, Australia’s High Commissioner to India, Philip Green, according to the Mint said, “Commitments agreed between India and Australia under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) will be upheld under the new migration Strategy.” Indian graduates will be eligible to stay on a Temporary Graduate Visa for two years for a Bachelor’s degree, three years for the completion of a Masters’ degree, and four years for finishing a PhD. ALSO READ | India most vital partner in Indian ocean: Australian Envoy Philip Green to WION The Australian government said it would set up a new specialist visa for highly skilled workers which would cut the processing time to one week, in a bid to help businesses recruit top migrants amid tough competition with other developed economies. Australia, which has become one of the tightest labour markets in the world, has been long reliant on immigration. The government believes the new pathway, which will be open to eligible applicants earning at least $135,000 in any occupation aside from trade workers, machinery operators and drivers, and labourers, will add $3.4 billion to the country’s budget over the next decade. Canada Earlier this month, the Canadian government’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that starting January 1, 2024, the cost-of-living financial requirement for study permit applicants will be raised to more than double. International students will need to show they have access to US$15,219 (CAN$20,635) instead of the previous US$7,376 (CAN$10,000) which had been in place for around 20 years, in addition to paying for travel and tuition. ALSO READ | Canada tops list of Indian student deaths abroad at 91, total fatalities since 2018 at 403 The hike also comes as many international students are unable to keep up with the rise in the cost of living in Canada that has spiked over the past couple of years. In addition to this announcement, IRCC Minister Marc Miller, on Thursday (Dec 7) also said that the measure which offers extended off-campus work hours will be extended till the end of April. The government had previously sought to limit the number of hours that international students can work while studying in Canada. “The waiver on the 20-hour-per-week limit on the number of hours international students are allowed to work off campus while class is in session will be extended to April 30, 2024,” said Miller. The IRCC might set the limit to 30 hours per week moving forward, said Miller, while also ruling out the possibility of full-time work for international students while they are studying. International education contributes more than $22 billion in economic activity every year and supports more than 200,000 jobs in Canada, according to the government. ALSO READ | Indian student speaks to WION, reveals shocking state of Canada's education system, housing and health infra Indian students already are set to deal with long delays for visa applications. This comes after Ottawa removed its 41 diplomats from New Delhi amid an ongoing diplomatic row. Tensions rose following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s unfounded accusations of India’s involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. United Kingdom The British government earlier this month announced tough new immigration rules as the country continues to grapple with high number of people moving to the UK legally and illegally. The new package of measures has sought to reduce immigration each year by hundreds of thousands. Home Secretary James Cleverly said he was taking “robust action” to lower authorised immigration which hit a record high in 2022. “This package of measures will take place from next spring,” said Cleverly on December 4. ALSO READ | Indian diaspora in UK outperforms the Britons in education, home ownership: Survey The UK government plans to raise the minimum salary required for foreign workers to be eligible for a work visa by a third and make it more difficult for them to bring their families. The minimum salary threshold for foreign skilled workers will be raised to $48,800 from $33,000. Meanwhile, British citizens who want to bring their foreign spouse to the UK will now have to earn the same amount, which is double the current threshold. While health and social care, which are highly reliant on immigrant staff, are exempt from the salary rule, care workers from overseas will no longer be able to bring dependent relatives with them. The restriction has raised concerns in the industry that fewer will want to come to the UK. “Migrant workers were encouraged to come here because both sectors are critically short of staff. Hospitals and care homes simply couldn’t function without them,” said Christina McAnea, general secretary of the Unison trade union. ALSO READ | Why are Indian students crossing the English Channel on small boats? She also called the measures a “total disaster” for health and the care sector. “Migrants will now head to more welcoming countries, rather than be forced to live without their families,” said McAnea. Similarly, starting in January, most foreign graduate students will no longer be able to bring family members to the UK. The measures have irked Indian students and business associations, who contribute significantly to the British economy. A report by London Economics, citing data from 2020-21, said international students put nearly 10 times more into the British economy than they take, with Indians representing the second largest cohort of international students coming to study in the UK. The measures were announced amid mounting pressure on UK PM Rishi Sunak to act amid record net migration last year. The issue has dominated Britain’s political landscape for more than a decade and the incumbent PM has promised to crack down on irregular migration after tens of thousands of people arrived on small boats across the English Channel. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | How new visa rules in Australia, UK, Canada will adversely affect Indian students, workers

<p>Kenneth Law, a 58-year-old Canadian has been charged with 14 counts of second-degree murder, police said on Tuesday (Dec 12). Law allegedly helped more than a dozen young people across Ontario&nbsp;commit suicide by mailing them poison.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local reports mentioned that Law is believed to have sent as many as 1,200 packages to people in more than 40 countries since 2020.</p>

<p>The official documents showed that the charges filed against Law are on top of 14 he already faces for allegedly "counselling or aiding" suicides across Ontario province.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-arrives-at-white-house-for-aid-talks-with-joe-biden-669060">Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200m emergency aid drawdown</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The mother of a teenage boy, who died by suicide, told CTV News, she could see the "light at the end of the tunnel" on Tuesday. "It's infuriating. It's very heavy to carry," Isabella, of Langley, BC, told CTV News.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She said that her son, Jaden, took his own life in February 2021 with the use of a nitrogen tank and regulator after consulting with Law over e-mail.</p>

<p>Matthew Gourlay, who is Law's defence lawyer, also confirmed to the news agency AFP that Law has been charged with 14 new counts of second-degree murder.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this year in May, he was arrested for marketing a substance that is used as a food additive but can kill if misused.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In fact, he even said that he had targeted vulnerable people online.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nikki-haleys-prez-campaign-may-get-support-from-new-hampshir-governor-sununu-669004">Nikki Haley's prez campaign may get support from New Hampshire Governor Sununu</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>People buying products</strong></h2>

<p>Police have said at least 272 people purchased products from Law's websites and 88 of them died in Britain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alerted by Interpol, several other countries have launched investigations, including New Zealand and Italy, where nine buyers have been identified and one victim has died.</p>

<p>The Canadian victims were both male and female between the ages of 16 and 36, according to police.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Kenneth Law, a 58-year-old Canadian has been charged with 14 counts of second-degree murder, police said on Tuesday (Dec 12). Law allegedly helped more than a dozen young people across Ontario commit suicide by mailing them poison.

Kenneth Law, a 58-year-old Canadian has been charged with 14 counts of second-degree murder, police said on Tuesday (Dec 12). Law allegedly helped more than a dozen young people across Ontario commit suicide by mailing them poison. Local reports mentioned that Law is believed to have sent as many as 1,200 packages to people in more than 40 countries since 2020. The official documents showed that the charges filed against Law are on top of 14 he already faces for allegedly "counselling or aiding" suicides across Ontario province. Also read: Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200m emergency aid drawdown The mother of a teenage boy, who died by suicide, told CTV News, she could see the "light at the end of the tunnel" on Tuesday. "It's infuriating. It's very heavy to carry," Isabella, of Langley, BC, told CTV News. She said that her son, Jaden, took his own life in February 2021 with the use of a nitrogen tank and regulator after consulting with Law over e-mail. Matthew Gourlay, who is Law's defence lawyer, also confirmed to the news agency AFP that Law has been charged with 14 new counts of second-degree murder. Earlier this year in May, he was arrested for marketing a substance that is used as a food additive but can kill if misused. In fact, he even said that he had targeted vulnerable people online. Also read: Nikki Haley's prez campaign may get support from New Hampshire Governor Sununu People buying products Police have said at least 272 people purchased products from Law's websites and 88 of them died in Britain. Alerted by Interpol, several other countries have launched investigations, including New Zealand and Italy, where nine buyers have been identified and one victim has died. The Canadian victims were both male and female between the ages of 16 and 36, according to police. (With inputs from agencies)

Canadian faces 14 murder charges for allegedly selling suicide kits

<p>The government of Canada, in its official response to a Hinduphobia petition before the House of Commons, said it “rejects all forms of hate and discrimination and believes all Canadians must stand up against it where and whenever it is encountered.”</p>

<p>However, the petitioners were left disappointed by the response of the government, which was issued by its Minister of Diversity and Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities Kamal Khera. The response was signed by Khera's Parliamentary Secretary Sameer Zuberi.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Canadian government's response is frustrating: Petitioner</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking about the response of the government, the person who moved the petition Brampton-based Vijay Jain said, "The response from the Government is very frustrating.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He emphasised that the government's response although met the request in the petition for recognising Hinduphobia as a term in the Human Rights Code's glossary of terms describing anti-Hindu prejudice and discrimination for defining Hinduphobia as denial, prejudice, vilification or negation against Hindus, Hinduism, or Hinduness and for raising awareness and addressing systemic and institutional Hinduphobia.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rejects-secret-memo-report-over-crackdown-against-khalistani-terrorists-668308">India rejects 'secret memo' report over 'crackdown' against Khalistani terrorists</a></p>

<p>He said that although Canada's human rights code was “prescriptive” when it came to Islamophobia and anti-Semitism, similar steps have not been applied against increasing Hinduphobia. “This itself shows systemic discrimination against Hindus in Canada,” Jain said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jain said that he and other community groups had called for a meeting with Khera but did not get any appointment as of yet.</p>

<p>The government, in its response, thanked the petitioner “for expressing their concerns regarding the growing negative stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination of Hindus in Canada.”</p>

<p>The petition had collected 25,794 signatures as against the 500 required to elicit a formal response from the government. Conservative Party MP Melissa Lantsman, while presenting the petition in the House of Commons on November 3, said, “Canadian Hindus are facing growing negative stereotypes, prejudice, discrimination, at work, in schools and in their communities while traditions and cultures are misrepresented and misunderstood.”</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | Canada: 3 theatres playing Hindi movies attacked</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-canada-3-theatres-playing-hindi-movies-attacked-667720/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The petition was backed by a total of 81 community organisations, which include major temples. The petition attracted attention after a video was released by secessionist group Sikhs for Justice or SFJ in September which targeted Canadian Hindus of Indian origin. SFJ's&nbsp;Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, in the viral video, said, “Indo-Hindus leave Canada, go to India.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“You not only support India but you are also supporting the suppression of speech and expression of pro-Khalistan Sikhs,” Pannun said, while adding that they were “also promoting violence by celebrating” Nijjar’s “assassination.” He was speaking about the plot to kill SFJ's leader and terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Canada's government, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, has accused India of plotting against Nijjar.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;</p>


The government of Canada, in its official response to a Hinduphobia petition before the House of Commons, said it “rejects all forms of hate and discrimination and believes all Canadians must stand up against it where and whenever it is encountered.

The government of Canada, in its official response to a Hinduphobia petition before the House of Commons, said it “rejects all forms of hate and discrimination and believes all Canadians must stand up against it where and whenever it is encountered.” However, the petitioners were left disappointed by the response of the government, which was issued by its Minister of Diversity and Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities Kamal Khera. The response was signed by Khera's Parliamentary Secretary Sameer Zuberi. Canadian government's response is frustrating: Petitioner Speaking about the response of the government, the person who moved the petition Brampton-based Vijay Jain said, "The response from the Government is very frustrating.” He emphasised that the government's response although met the request in the petition for recognising Hinduphobia as a term in the Human Rights Code's glossary of terms describing anti-Hindu prejudice and discrimination for defining Hinduphobia as denial, prejudice, vilification or negation against Hindus, Hinduism, or Hinduness and for raising awareness and addressing systemic and institutional Hinduphobia. Also read: India rejects 'secret memo' report over 'crackdown' against Khalistani terrorists He said that although Canada's human rights code was “prescriptive” when it came to Islamophobia and anti-Semitism, similar steps have not been applied against increasing Hinduphobia. “This itself shows systemic discrimination against Hindus in Canada,” Jain said. Jain said that he and other community groups had called for a meeting with Khera but did not get any appointment as of yet. The government, in its response, thanked the petitioner “for expressing their concerns regarding the growing negative stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination of Hindus in Canada.” The petition had collected 25,794 signatures as against the 500 required to elicit a formal response from the government. Conservative Party MP Melissa Lantsman, while presenting the petition in the House of Commons on November 3, said, “Canadian Hindus are facing growing negative stereotypes, prejudice, discrimination, at work, in schools and in their communities while traditions and cultures are misrepresented and misunderstood.” Watch: Gravitas | Canada: 3 theatres playing Hindi movies attacked The petition was backed by a total of 81 community organisations, which include major temples. The petition attracted attention after a video was released by secessionist group Sikhs for Justice or SFJ in September which targeted Canadian Hindus of Indian origin. SFJ's Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, in the viral video, said, “Indo-Hindus leave Canada, go to India.” “You not only support India but you are also supporting the suppression of speech and expression of pro-Khalistan Sikhs,” Pannun said, while adding that they were “also promoting violence by celebrating” Nijjar’s “assassination.” He was speaking about the plot to kill SFJ's leader and terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Canada's government, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, has accused India of plotting against Nijjar. (With inputs from agencies)

Trudeau's Canada sees Hinduphobia petition amid row with India over Nijjar's killing

<p>Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, in a recent interview, has claimed that the allegations he levelled against India over its involvement in the killing of pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar were intended to "put a chill" on New Delhi amid strained diplomatic ties between the two countries.</p>

<p>While speaking to the Canadian Press in a year-end interview, Trudeau said that the statement he made on September&nbsp;18 in the House of Commons was meant to place an extra 'level of deterrence' for India to refrain from carrying out such acts in the future.</p>

<p>He further said that he wanted the Canadians to know that the government was on top of the situation and proactively taking measures.</p>

<p>"Too many Canadians were worried that they were vulnerable," Trudeau said in the interview, adding that the Sikh community in British Columbia had been raising concerns since shortly after Nijjar was killed.</p>

<p>"We felt that all the quiet diplomacy and all the measures that we put in -- and ensured that our security services put in to keep people safe in the community, needed a further level of deterrence, perhaps of saying publicly and loudly that we know, or we have credible reasons to believe, that the Indian government was behind this," he said.</p>

<p>"And therefore put a chill on them continuing or considering doing anything like this," he added.</p>

<p>He also went on to claim that the Indian government chose to attack and undermine them with misinformation after he had made the allegations public and accused New Delhi of launching an information war.</p>

<p>"They chose to attack us and undermine us with a scale of misinformation and disinformation in their media that was comical," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fbi-aggressively-investigating-attack-on-indian-consulate-in-san-francisco-director-wray-tells-nia-668995">FBI 'aggressively investigating' attack on Indian Consulate in San Francisco: Director Wray</a></p>

<p>"(It) would have been more comical had it not had real implications for people's lives and relations between our two countries that are so deep in terms of people-to-people ties, and people depending on the flow of connections between us," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Difficult conversations'</strong></h2>

<p>Trudeau also stated that he raised the issue of Nijjar's killing with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi during his bilateral talks in September at the time of G20 in New Delhi and was hoping for the conversation to be constructive.</p>

<p>However, on being asked if the discussion with Modi on the issue was helpful, the Canadian Prime Minister replied with a "No".</p>

<p>"We knew it would be difficult conversation, but we also knew that this was an important moment for India to be demonstrating its leadership on the world stage with the G20," Trudeau said.</p>

<p>"And we felt that we could use that as a constructive opportunity to work together."</p>

<p>India's Ministry of External Affairs, which has recently constituted a high-level inquiry committee to probe the alleged murder plot against Sikh separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, maintains that Canada had given no evidence about its allegations and so the question of equitable treatment for the two countries does not arise.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, in a recent interview, has claimed that the allegations he levelled against India over its involvement in the killing of pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar were intended to "put a chill" on New Delhi amid strained diplomatic ties between the two countries.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, in a recent interview, has claimed that the allegations he levelled against India over its involvement in the killing of pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar were intended to "put a chill" on New Delhi amid strained diplomatic ties between the two countries. While speaking to the Canadian Press in a year-end interview, Trudeau said that the statement he made on September 18 in the House of Commons was meant to place an extra 'level of deterrence' for India to refrain from carrying out such acts in the future. He further said that he wanted the Canadians to know that the government was on top of the situation and proactively taking measures. "Too many Canadians were worried that they were vulnerable," Trudeau said in the interview, adding that the Sikh community in British Columbia had been raising concerns since shortly after Nijjar was killed. "We felt that all the quiet diplomacy and all the measures that we put in -- and ensured that our security services put in to keep people safe in the community, needed a further level of deterrence, perhaps of saying publicly and loudly that we know, or we have credible reasons to believe, that the Indian government was behind this," he said. "And therefore put a chill on them continuing or considering doing anything like this," he added. He also went on to claim that the Indian government chose to attack and undermine them with misinformation after he had made the allegations public and accused New Delhi of launching an information war. "They chose to attack us and undermine us with a scale of misinformation and disinformation in their media that was comical," he said. Also read: FBI 'aggressively investigating' attack on Indian Consulate in San Francisco: Director Wray "(It) would have been more comical had it not had real implications for people's lives and relations between our two countries that are so deep in terms of people-to-people ties, and people depending on the flow of connections between us," he added. 'Difficult conversations' Trudeau also stated that he raised the issue of Nijjar's killing with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi during his bilateral talks in September at the time of G20 in New Delhi and was hoping for the conversation to be constructive. However, on being asked if the discussion with Modi on the issue was helpful, the Canadian Prime Minister replied with a "No". "We knew it would be difficult conversation, but we also knew that this was an important moment for India to be demonstrating its leadership on the world stage with the G20," Trudeau said. "And we felt that we could use that as a constructive opportunity to work together." India's Ministry of External Affairs, which has recently constituted a high-level inquiry committee to probe the alleged murder plot against Sikh separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, maintains that Canada had given no evidence about its allegations and so the question of equitable treatment for the two countries does not arise. (With inputs from agencies)

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau claims he made allegations over Nijjar killing public to 'put a chill' on India

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