In the Ottawa suburb of Barrhaven,&nbsp;four children and two adults were found dead inside a two-storey townhouse on Berrigan Drive late Wednesday night (March 6). Ottawa police responded to 911 calls just before 11 pm, leading to one arrest.

Police have identified five of the victims as members of a Sri Lankan family who recently immigrated to Canada.

They include Darshani Banbaranayake Gama Walwwe Darshani Dilanthika Ekanyake (35), Inuka Wickramasinghe (7), Ashwini Wickramasinghe (4), Rinyana Wickramasinghe (2), and Kelly Wickramasinghe (2 months). Ekanyake's husband sustained injuries and is currently hospitalised in stable condition. Another victim, 40-year-old Amarakoonmubiayansela Ge Gamini Amarakoon, was also killed, as reported by CBC News.

Ottawa Police Chief Eric Stubbs told the Ottawa Citizen&nbsp;that the homicide is not believed to be an incident of domestic violence. However, the investigation is still in its early stages, with the Ottawa Police Homicide Unit leading the efforts.&nbsp;

Police officials informed reporters later on Thursday (March 7) that an "edged weapon" was used&nbsp;in the homicides. In a previous interview on CBC News Network, officials initially characterised the incident as a "mass shooting",&nbsp;which later proved inaccurate.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-18-killed-in-suspected-is-attack-on-syria-truffle-hunters-report-697404">Also read |&nbsp;At least 18 killed, over 50 missing in suspected IS attack on Syria truffle hunters: Report</a>

<h2>Shockwaves in the neighbourhood</h2>

The&nbsp;incident has deeply affected the city of Ottawa, prompting Mayor Mark Sutcliffe to express shock and sorrow. Support is being extended to affected family members and neighbours, with emergency responders actively involved in investigating and aiding those impacted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
My community has woken up to shock, grief and tragedy today as 6 people, including four children, have been murdered. There are no words for the heartbreak me and my neighbours feel for the surviving family, friends &amp; playmates of the deceased. I’ve spoken already this morning…
— Lisa MacLeod (@MacLeodLisa) <a href="https://twitter.com/MacLeodLisa/status/1765724953893097717?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Public officials and community leaders, including Barrhaven East Coun. Wilson Lo and Nepean MPP Lisa Macleod, have expressed their condolences and support for those affected by the tragedy.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the Ottawa suburb of Barrhaven, four children and two adults were found dead inside a two-storey townhouse on Berrigan Drive late Wednesday night (March 6). Ottawa police responded to 911 calls just before 11 pm, leading to one arrest.

In the Ottawa suburb of Barrhaven, four children and two adults were found dead inside a two-storey townhouse on Berrigan Drive late Wednesday night (March 6). Ottawa police responded to 911 calls just before 11 pm, leading to one arrest. Police have identified five of the victims as members of a Sri Lankan family who recently immigrated to Canada. They include Darshani Banbaranayake Gama Walwwe Darshani Dilanthika Ekanyake (35), Inuka Wickramasinghe (7), Ashwini Wickramasinghe (4), Rinyana Wickramasinghe (2), and Kelly Wickramasinghe (2 months). Ekanyake's husband sustained injuries and is currently hospitalised in stable condition. Another victim, 40-year-old Amarakoonmubiayansela Ge Gamini Amarakoon, was also killed, as reported by CBC News. Ottawa Police Chief Eric Stubbs told the Ottawa Citizen that the homicide is not believed to be an incident of domestic violence. However, the investigation is still in its early stages, with the Ottawa Police Homicide Unit leading the efforts. Police officials informed reporters later on Thursday (March 7) that an "edged weapon" was used in the homicides. In a previous interview on CBC News Network, officials initially characterised the incident as a "mass shooting", which later proved inaccurate. Also read | At least 18 killed, over 50 missing in suspected IS attack on Syria truffle hunters: Report Shockwaves in the neighbourhood The incident has deeply affected the city of Ottawa, prompting Mayor Mark Sutcliffe to express shock and sorrow. Support is being extended to affected family members and neighbours, with emergency responders actively involved in investigating and aiding those impacted. My community has woken up to shock, grief and tragedy today as 6 people, including four children, have been murdered. There are no words for the heartbreak me and my neighbours feel for the surviving family, friends & playmates of the deceased. I’ve spoken already this morning… — Lisa MacLeod (@MacLeodLisa) March 7, 2024 × Public officials and community leaders, including Barrhaven East Coun. Wilson Lo and Nepean MPP Lisa Macleod, have expressed their condolences and support for those affected by the tragedy. (With inputs from agencies)

Six Sri Lankans found dead inside two-storey house in Canada's Ottawa

In response to a recent surge in asylum claims, Canada announced on Thursday (Feb 29) the immediate reinstatement of visas for Mexican nationals visiting the country.

"Mexican citizens will have to get a visa to come to Canada from now on," Immigration Minister Marc Miller said at a news conference and&nbsp;explained&nbsp;the need to preserve the viability of Canada's immigration and refugee system.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/armed-men-kidnapped-32-migrants-in-mexico-for-extortion-president-says-676763" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/armed-men-kidnapped-32-migrants-in-mexico-for-extortion-president-says-676763&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiespOz9NCEAxX8TWwGHTxQCdIQFnoECAEQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1JRZwV_Ykl0QnloIlUXU0P" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armed-men-kidnapped-32-migrants-in-mexico-for-extortion-president-says-676763" target="_blank">Armed men kidnapped 32&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;in&nbsp;Mexico&nbsp;for extortion</a>

While Mexican citizens will generally require a visa to enter Canada, there are exceptions. Those who have held a Canadian visa in the past decade or possess a valid visa for the United States can opt for a simplified electronic travel authorisation.

The decision comes as immigration data reveals a significant increase in refugee claims from Mexicans, constituting 17 per cent of all claims in Canada in 2023.&nbsp;

This surge contrasts sharply with the 260 claims recorded in 2016 when a previous visa requirement was lifted. However, most of the recent claims were either rejected or withdrawn by the applicants.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-migrant-caravan-in-mexico-heads-to-us-border-escalating-challenges-amid-blinkens-visit-673325" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-migrant-caravan-in-mexico-heads-to-us-border-escalating-challenges-amid-blinkens-visit-673325&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiespOz9NCEAxX8TWwGHTxQCdIQFnoECAYQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2r8kjiy75qzPyNs_R50Bff" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-migrant-caravan-in-mexico-heads-to-us-border-escalating-challenges-amid-blinkens-visit-673325" target="_blank">Massive&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;caravan in&nbsp;Mexico&nbsp;heads to US border</a>

Minister Miller highlighted that some Mexican nationals have been using Canada as a transit point to enter the United States. He acknowledged the comparatively lower numbers compared to migrants arriving at the US' southern border but emphasised the need to address the situation.

Notably, this reinstatement echoes a measure previously imposed in 2009 by a conservative government to curb a similar uptick. However, it was lifted in 2016 during Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's liberal administration.

The province of Quebec recently expressed concern about the situation, sending a letter to Prime Minister Trudeau, asserting that the migrant influx had reached a breaking point and urging&nbsp;immediate action to manage the flow.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-mexico-agree-to-strengthen-efforts-to-curb-record-migration-674653" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-mexico-agree-to-strengthen-efforts-to-curb-record-migration-674653&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiespOz9NCEAxX8TWwGHTxQCdIQFnoECAUQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3RJXQzAWTCdUG0cd30isHT" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-mexico-agree-to-strengthen-efforts-to-curb-record-migration-674653" target="_blank">US,&nbsp;Mexico&nbsp;agree to strengthen efforts to curb record&nbsp;migration</a>

Minister Miller acknowledged the dissatisfaction expressed by the Mexican government in response to the newly reintroduced visa requirement.

"We attach great importance to our close ties with Mexico," he said. "Mexico is and will remain an important partner."

(With inputs from agencies)

In response to a recent surge in asylum claims, Canada announced on Thursday (Feb 29) the immediate reinstatement of visas for Mexican nationals visiting the country.

In response to a recent surge in asylum claims, Canada announced on Thursday (Feb 29) the immediate reinstatement of visas for Mexican nationals visiting the country. "Mexican citizens will have to get a visa to come to Canada from now on," Immigration Minister Marc Miller said at a news conference and explained the need to preserve the viability of Canada's immigration and refugee system. Also read: Armed men kidnapped 32 migrants in Mexico for extortion While Mexican citizens will generally require a visa to enter Canada, there are exceptions. Those who have held a Canadian visa in the past decade or possess a valid visa for the United States can opt for a simplified electronic travel authorisation. The decision comes as immigration data reveals a significant increase in refugee claims from Mexicans, constituting 17 per cent of all claims in Canada in 2023. This surge contrasts sharply with the 260 claims recorded in 2016 when a previous visa requirement was lifted. However, most of the recent claims were either rejected or withdrawn by the applicants. Also read: Massive migrant caravan in Mexico heads to US border Minister Miller highlighted that some Mexican nationals have been using Canada as a transit point to enter the United States. He acknowledged the comparatively lower numbers compared to migrants arriving at the US' southern border but emphasised the need to address the situation. Notably, this reinstatement echoes a measure previously imposed in 2009 by a conservative government to curb a similar uptick. However, it was lifted in 2016 during Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's liberal administration. The province of Quebec recently expressed concern about the situation, sending a letter to Prime Minister Trudeau, asserting that the migrant influx had reached a breaking point and urging immediate action to manage the flow. Also read: US, Mexico agree to strengthen efforts to curb record migration Minister Miller acknowledged the dissatisfaction expressed by the Mexican government in response to the newly reintroduced visa requirement. "We attach great importance to our close ties with Mexico," he said. "Mexico is and will remain an important partner." (With inputs from agencies)

Canada reinstates visa requirements for Mexican travellers

Canada fired two scientists working at a high-security infectious disease laboratory in 2021 because they provided confidential information to China, the Globe and Mail newspaper reported on Wednesday.

Officials concluded that the husband and wife team were "a realistic and credible threat to Canada's economic security," the paper said, citing a mass of documents that the government released after a long fight with opposition legislators who had demanded information behind the sackings.

Health Minister Mark Holland, decrying what he called unacceptable security lapses at the lab at the time, said there had been no risk to national security.

Xiangguo Qiu and her husband, Keding Cheng, were escorted out of the National Microbiology Lab in Winnipeg in 2019 and their security permits revoked. They were fired in 2021.

Canadian police said in 2019 they were launching a probe into the matter but Wednesday's revelation was the first time that details of the sackings were revealed.

The documents show the Canadian Security Intelligence Service concluded Qiu "had intentionally transferred scientific knowledge and materials to China", the Globe said.

It is not clear whether the couple is still in Canada.

The news is likely to worsen already chilly ties with Beijing, especially since Ottawa has set up an investigation into alleged Chinese interference in domestic Canadian affairs.

The Winnipeg laboratory's work includes research on the most dangerous human and animal pathogens, such as Ebola.

"At no time did national secrets, or information that threatened the security of Canada, leave or enter the lab," Holland told reporters, saying the couple had not been transparent about their dealings with China.

Canada fired two scientists working at a high-security infectious disease laboratory in 2021 because they provided confidential information to China, the Globe and Mail newspaper reported on Wednesday.

Canada fired two scientists working at a high-security infectious disease laboratory in 2021 because they provided confidential information to China, the Globe and Mail newspaper reported on Wednesday. Officials concluded that the husband and wife team were "a realistic and credible threat to Canada's economic security," the paper said, citing a mass of documents that the government released after a long fight with opposition legislators who had demanded information behind the sackings. Health Minister Mark Holland, decrying what he called unacceptable security lapses at the lab at the time, said there had been no risk to national security. Xiangguo Qiu and her husband, Keding Cheng, were escorted out of the National Microbiology Lab in Winnipeg in 2019 and their security permits revoked. They were fired in 2021. Canadian police said in 2019 they were launching a probe into the matter but Wednesday's revelation was the first time that details of the sackings were revealed. The documents show the Canadian Security Intelligence Service concluded Qiu "had intentionally transferred scientific knowledge and materials to China", the Globe said. It is not clear whether the couple is still in Canada. The news is likely to worsen already chilly ties with Beijing, especially since Ottawa has set up an investigation into alleged Chinese interference in domestic Canadian affairs. The Winnipeg laboratory's work includes research on the most dangerous human and animal pathogens, such as Ebola. "At no time did national secrets, or information that threatened the security of Canada, leave or enter the lab," Holland told reporters, saying the couple had not been transparent about their dealings with China.

Canada fired two scientists for sharing information with Beijing, says paper

Another member of the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) cabin crew, has reportedly gone missing while on duty, Pakistan-based DAWN newspaper reported.&nbsp;

The air hostess was identified as Maryam Raza, who landed in Canada's Toronto on PIA flight PK-782 from Islamabad on Monday. However, the reports said that she failed to report for duty on the return flight, PK-784 to Karachi.&nbsp;

She went missing but after a search, a note saying, "Thank you, PIA", was found in a Toronto hotel room. The authorities also found her uniform when they scanned her room.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/balochistan-heavy-rains-paralyse-pakistans-coastal-city-of-gwadar-694733">Balochistan: Heavy rains batter Pakistan’s coastal city of Gwadar, paralyse life</a>&nbsp;

As per the report, she joined Pakistan's national flag carrier 15 years ago. She was given the duty of flight from Islamabad to Toronto.&nbsp;

Notably, this is not the first case as&nbsp;a similar incident&nbsp;has happened earlier this year. Around a month before, another PIA flight attendant Faiza Mukhtar also disappeared in Canada.&nbsp;

Local reports said that she landed in Canada and was supposed to fly back to Karachi, but she went MIA (missing in action). PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez Khan had said that a day after landing in Canada "did not board the flight and disappeared".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rats-on-the-plane-sri-lanka-airlines-plane-grounded-for-three-days-after-rodent-spotted-on-flight-694388">Rats on plane: Sri Lanka Airlines aircraft grounded for three days after rodent spotting on flight</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan: Can Arif Alvi grant pardon to Imran Khan?&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-can-arif-alvi-grant-pardon-to-imran-khan-694431/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

DAWN quoted officials as saying that the disappearances of the cabin crew members are due to the flexible Canadian law, which offers asylum after entering the country.&nbsp;

However, the trend will pose issues for the crisis-hit carrier because it will tarnish its image globally. The airline has already been struggling to secure funds to maintain its operations. Last year in September, PIA was forced to ground several aircraft.&nbsp;

Again in October, the operations were halted again due to a lack of fuel as the Pakistan State Oil (PSO) stopped fuel supply to PIA, which severely impacted the airlines.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Another member of the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) cabin crew, has reportedly gone missing while on duty, Pakistan-based DAWN newspaper reported. The air hostess was identified as Maryam Raza, who landed in Canada's Toronto on PIA flight PK-782 from Islamabad on Monday.

Another member of the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) cabin crew, has reportedly gone missing while on duty, Pakistan-based DAWN newspaper reported. The air hostess was identified as Maryam Raza, who landed in Canada's Toronto on PIA flight PK-782 from Islamabad on Monday. However, the reports said that she failed to report for duty on the return flight, PK-784 to Karachi. She went missing but after a search, a note saying, "Thank you, PIA", was found in a Toronto hotel room. The authorities also found her uniform when they scanned her room. Also read: Balochistan: Heavy rains batter Pakistan’s coastal city of Gwadar, paralyse life As per the report, she joined Pakistan's national flag carrier 15 years ago. She was given the duty of flight from Islamabad to Toronto. Notably, this is not the first case as a similar incident has happened earlier this year. Around a month before, another PIA flight attendant Faiza Mukhtar also disappeared in Canada. Local reports said that she landed in Canada and was supposed to fly back to Karachi, but she went MIA (missing in action). PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez Khan had said that a day after landing in Canada "did not board the flight and disappeared". Also read: Rats on plane: Sri Lanka Airlines aircraft grounded for three days after rodent spotting on flight Watch: Pakistan: Can Arif Alvi grant pardon to Imran Khan? × DAWN quoted officials as saying that the disappearances of the cabin crew members are due to the flexible Canadian law, which offers asylum after entering the country. However, the trend will pose issues for the crisis-hit carrier because it will tarnish its image globally. The airline has already been struggling to secure funds to maintain its operations. Last year in September, PIA was forced to ground several aircraft. Again in October, the operations were halted again due to a lack of fuel as the Pakistan State Oil (PSO) stopped fuel supply to PIA, which severely impacted the airlines. (With inputs from agencies)

Air hostess of Pakistan International Airlines goes 'missing' from Canada

Canada has introduced a new bill that aims to combat online abuse with steep penalties for hate crimes, including life in prison for inciting genocide. The bill still needs to be voted on by Canada's Parliament.

Canada introduces new bill to fight online abuse with severe penalties for hate crimes

Members of a First Nation in Canada have initiated a lawsuit alleging they were subjected to a non-consensual secret medical experiment, which they say left them feeling "violated and humiliated."

The class-action lawsuit, recently certified by the Nova Scotia Supreme Court, once again shines the spotlight on the troubling history of Canada conducting medical experiments on Indigenous people, and the discrimination they face within the healthcare system.

<h2>The claim</h2>

According to the statement of claim, Chief Andrea Paul and 60 other members of the Pictou Landing First Nation underwent an MRI in 2017 for a medical research project overseen by the Canadian Alliance for Healthy Hearts and Minds. However, as per The Guardian report, following the initial test, hospital staff in Halifax kept Chief Paul for a second procedure without her consent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjJrcqUk8uEAxW6UGwGHa72C9UQFnoECBAQAQ" href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/trending/7-unethical-human-experiments-that-shocked-the-world-1702913320156" jsname="UWckNb" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/trending/7-unethical-human-experiments-that-shocked-the-world-1702913320156&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjJrcqUk8uEAxW6UGwGHa72C9UQFnoECBAQAQ">7 Unethical Human Experiments That Shocked The World</a>

During this second MRI, intimate medical information about Chief Paul's body was obtained without her knowledge or consent.

The statement describes her experience vividly: "As she lay inside the claustrophobic MRI chamber, holding her breath, and cringing from the loud banging sounds around her, the MRI scans generated data that revealed intimate medical information about her body without her knowledge or consent."

"She had been singled out for the one reason—she was Mi'kmaq," it alleged.

A year later, Chief Paul discovered that two radiologists, Robert Miller and Sharon Clarke, allegedly utilised the second procedure to conduct MRI elastography on the livers of Indigenous subjects, again without their consent.

The lawsuit identifies Miller and Clarke as defendants, alleging breaches of privacy, negligence, and other violations. It asserts that the actions of the radiologists exacerbate Indigenous communities' mistrust of the healthcare system, stemming from a legacy of mistreatment and abuse.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-agrees-historic-indigenous-child-welfare-settlement-650989" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-agrees-historic-indigenous-child-welfare-settlement-650989&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi6tfPJk8uEAxVh4jgGHXDYBKIQFnoECAYQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3nT2_N03pMmjAQaLO5p7Jv" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-agrees-historic-indigenous-child-welfare-settlement-650989" target="_blank">Canada&nbsp;agrees historic&nbsp;Indigenous&nbsp;child welfare settlement&nbsp;</a>

According to the claim, in 2018, Miller met with Paul, and it was then that she was told that her MRI had been used for a broader research project titled "MRI Findings of Liver Disease in an Atlantic Canada First Nations Population" and were also shared with a radiology conference.

The results were, however, not provided to the plaintiffs or to the Canadian Alliance for Healthy Hearts and Minds, the organisation they thought they were undertaking the medical research project for.

<h2>Compensation they are demanding</h2>

The plaintiffs, as per The Guardian, are seeking a declaration for various legal breaches and damages. They argue that the MRI procedures amount to assault and battery due to being performed without informed consent.

(With inputs from agencies)

Members of a First Nation in Canada have initiated a lawsuit alleging they were subjected to a non-consensual secret medical experiment, which they say left them feeling "violated and humiliated.

Members of a First Nation in Canada have initiated a lawsuit alleging they were subjected to a non-consensual secret medical experiment, which they say left them feeling "violated and humiliated." The class-action lawsuit, recently certified by the Nova Scotia Supreme Court, once again shines the spotlight on the troubling history of Canada conducting medical experiments on Indigenous people, and the discrimination they face within the healthcare system. The claim According to the statement of claim, Chief Andrea Paul and 60 other members of the Pictou Landing First Nation underwent an MRI in 2017 for a medical research project overseen by the Canadian Alliance for Healthy Hearts and Minds. However, as per The Guardian report, following the initial test, hospital staff in Halifax kept Chief Paul for a second procedure without her consent. Also read | 7 Unethical Human Experiments That Shocked The World During this second MRI, intimate medical information about Chief Paul's body was obtained without her knowledge or consent. The statement describes her experience vividly: "As she lay inside the claustrophobic MRI chamber, holding her breath, and cringing from the loud banging sounds around her, the MRI scans generated data that revealed intimate medical information about her body without her knowledge or consent." "She had been singled out for the one reason—she was Mi'kmaq," it alleged. A year later, Chief Paul discovered that two radiologists, Robert Miller and Sharon Clarke, allegedly utilised the second procedure to conduct MRI elastography on the livers of Indigenous subjects, again without their consent. The lawsuit identifies Miller and Clarke as defendants, alleging breaches of privacy, negligence, and other violations. It asserts that the actions of the radiologists exacerbate Indigenous communities' mistrust of the healthcare system, stemming from a legacy of mistreatment and abuse. Also read | Canada agrees historic Indigenous child welfare settlement According to the claim, in 2018, Miller met with Paul, and it was then that she was told that her MRI had been used for a broader research project titled "MRI Findings of Liver Disease in an Atlantic Canada First Nations Population" and were also shared with a radiology conference. The results were, however, not provided to the plaintiffs or to the Canadian Alliance for Healthy Hearts and Minds, the organisation they thought they were undertaking the medical research project for. Compensation they are demanding The plaintiffs, as per The Guardian, are seeking a declaration for various legal breaches and damages. They argue that the MRI procedures amount to assault and battery due to being performed without informed consent. (With inputs from agencies)

Indigenous Canadians, allegedly subjected to non-consensual medical experiment, launch lawsuit

Latest in Russia-Ukraine war: On the second anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Zelenskyy claimed 'victory & fair peace'. Western leaders arrived in Ukraine to pledge moral support on the second year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russian forces have advanced further to the West. Russia claims it has destroyed key Ukrainian facilities. As the war rages on, Ukrainians across the country face a grim uncertainty. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war: Western leaders offer support to Ukraine

Today is the second anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Russian forces have advanced further to the West. Russia claims it has destroyed key Ukrainian facilities. Meanwhile, as the war rages on, Ukrainians across the country face a grim uncertainty. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war | Italian PM says, 'Italy will continue to provide support to Ukraine'

Canada is headed for another deadly fire season after witnessing the worst season in its history last year. Numerous 'zombie fires' continue to smolder beneath the ground in western Canada. The number is 10 to 12 times more than usual. They pose a major challenge to firefighters who are currently battling around 150 fires.

Canada heading for a brutal wildfire season

In the dead of Canada's winter, the embers of last year's record-setting wildfire season remain. So-called zombie fires are burning under thick layers of snow at an unprecedented rate.

Canada headed for another brutal fire season

More than a hundred "zombie" fires have continued to burn under the ground in Canada, even though winter has set in.&nbsp;

These "zombie" fires, which are known as holdover fires or overwintering fires, have continued to burn under the surface in the winter months which has increased the risk of turning into full-blown wildfires in the spring season.

Currently, 92 zombie fires have been actively burning in British Columbia, and 54 have been simmering in Alberta, as per the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre, with as many more continuing&nbsp;to burn in the Northwest Territories.

In Canada, wildfire activity generally peaks during the summer months, especially in the western provinces and territories where lightning strikes and dry conditions are common.

In Canada, the areas which are most wildfire-prone include British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/climate-change-how-budget-2024-is-landmark-in-indias-journey-to-a-net-zero-economy-686932">Climate Change: How Budget 2024 is a ‘landmark in India’s journey to net-zero economy’</a>

There are vast forest areas in these regions which are susceptible to ignition in the right conditions.&nbsp;

In 2023, 2,220 wildfires were recorded in British Columbia which damaged an area of 2,830,808 hectares (6,995,078.9 acres).

Sometimes, large fires continue burning in the winter months which damage soil and roots under the ground.

"Smoldering fires are flaming fires that have entered 'energy-saver mode," said Rebecca Scholten, who is a researcher at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, in a NASA Earth Observatory post.

&nbsp;"These fires are only just surviving based on the resources they have—oxygen and fuel—and can transition back into flaming fires once conditions are more favourable," he added.

Sometimes, these fires are visible only because of smoke rising from them.&nbsp;

<h2>Is climate change keeping continued ignition underneath?</h2>

Some experts have blamed climate change for an increase in the severity and frequency of wildfires in Canada and the United States, as changing rainfall patterns and increasing temperatures contribute to drier conditions and increase fire ignition.&nbsp;

This year a lot of zombie fires have continued to blaze across the country than usual.

"It's not something I've seen in any of the data sets," said Jennifer Baltzer, a professor in the department of biology at Wilfrid Laurier University in Ontario, while speaking to local news CBC.

&nbsp;"What we don't know is how many of these will actually translate to reignition in the spring. This is yet another indication of the impact of climate warming on these systems," she added.

Watch:&nbsp;China braces for severe cold wave; authorities issue orange alert

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-braces-for-severe-cold-wave-authorities-issue-orange-alert-692678/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As per experts, these fires may have led to an increase in wildfires at the beginning of spring and summer, as per experts.

"It still feels like we haven't had enough time to get recovered, let alone get ready because here we go again," said Sonja Leverkus, a wildfire professor at the University of Alberta, while speaking to local news CBC.

"A lot of people talk about fire season and the end of the fire season, but our fires did not stop burning in 2023. Our fires dug underground and have been burning pretty much all winter," Leverkus added.

(With inputs from agencies)

More than a hundred "zombie" fires have continued to burn under the ground in Canada, even though winter has set in. These "zombie" fires, which are known as holdover fires or overwintering fires, have continued to burn under the surface in the winter months which has increased the risk of turning into full-blown wildfires in the spring season.

More than a hundred "zombie" fires have continued to burn under the ground in Canada, even though winter has set in. These "zombie" fires, which are known as holdover fires or overwintering fires, have continued to burn under the surface in the winter months which has increased the risk of turning into full-blown wildfires in the spring season. Currently, 92 zombie fires have been actively burning in British Columbia, and 54 have been simmering in Alberta, as per the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre, with as many more continuing to burn in the Northwest Territories. In Canada, wildfire activity generally peaks during the summer months, especially in the western provinces and territories where lightning strikes and dry conditions are common. In Canada, the areas which are most wildfire-prone include British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories. Also Read: Climate Change: How Budget 2024 is a ‘landmark in India’s journey to net-zero economy’ There are vast forest areas in these regions which are susceptible to ignition in the right conditions. In 2023, 2,220 wildfires were recorded in British Columbia which damaged an area of 2,830,808 hectares (6,995,078.9 acres). Sometimes, large fires continue burning in the winter months which damage soil and roots under the ground. "Smoldering fires are flaming fires that have entered 'energy-saver mode," said Rebecca Scholten, who is a researcher at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, in a NASA Earth Observatory post. "These fires are only just surviving based on the resources they have—oxygen and fuel—and can transition back into flaming fires once conditions are more favourable," he added. Sometimes, these fires are visible only because of smoke rising from them. Is climate change keeping continued ignition underneath? Some experts have blamed climate change for an increase in the severity and frequency of wildfires in Canada and the United States, as changing rainfall patterns and increasing temperatures contribute to drier conditions and increase fire ignition. This year a lot of zombie fires have continued to blaze across the country than usual. "It's not something I've seen in any of the data sets," said Jennifer Baltzer, a professor in the department of biology at Wilfrid Laurier University in Ontario, while speaking to local news CBC. "What we don't know is how many of these will actually translate to reignition in the spring. This is yet another indication of the impact of climate warming on these systems," she added. Watch: China braces for severe cold wave; authorities issue orange alert As per experts, these fires may have led to an increase in wildfires at the beginning of spring and summer, as per experts. "It still feels like we haven't had enough time to get recovered, let alone get ready because here we go again," said Sonja Leverkus, a wildfire professor at the University of Alberta, while speaking to local news CBC. "A lot of people talk about fire season and the end of the fire season, but our fires did not stop burning in 2023. Our fires dug underground and have been burning pretty much all winter," Leverkus added. (With inputs from agencies)

Zombie fires continue to burn underground in Canada even in winters

The Canadian police, on Tuesday (Feb 20) said two teenagers have been detained and charged in connection with a shooting at the home of a close associate of slain Khalistani separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar and ruled out the allegations of “foreign interference”.&nbsp;

<h2>‘No foreign interference’</h2>

Two 16-year-olds have been charged in connection with the shooting, said the Surrey detachment of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in a statement.&nbsp;

Multiple shots had been fired at the residence of an associate of the pro-Khalistan figure Nijjar who was killed in Canada’s Surrey, British Columbia, last year.

Since then Khalistani separatist groups in Canada, including Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) had alleged the involvement of the Indian government in the shooting which took place at Simranjeet Singh’s residence on February 1.&nbsp;

Officers responded to a report of shots fired at a residence in the 2800-block of 154 Street, on February 1 at around 1:21 am (local time), said the RCMP.&nbsp;

“At the time of this incident, there was speculation circulating that this was connected to foreign interference. Investigators have not established any links to foreign interference in relation to this matter,” it added.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britains-trident-nuclear-missile-test-fails-for-the-second-time-in-row-692195">Britain's Trident nuclear missile test fails for the second time in a row</a>

The RCMP in Canada’s Surrey also said that they have arrested and charged two 16-year-olds in connection with the shooting.&nbsp;

“On February 12, 2024, two 16-year-old males were arrested and the BC Prosecution Service approved charges of Discharging a Firearm into a place and Possessing a Loaded Prohibited Firearm,” said the Canadian police.&nbsp;

<h2>Allegations against&nbsp;Indian government</h2>

The shots were fired at Simranjeet Singh’s home, earlier this month, who is reportedly a close associate of Hardeep Singh Nijjar and helped organise a pro-Khalistani protest outside the Indian consulate in Vancouver on January 26.&nbsp;

A spokesperson for the British Columbia Gurdwaras Council and prominent figure of the pro-Khalistan movement in Canada, Moninder Singh told CBC News how Simranjeet believes the Indian government is involved in the incident.&nbsp;

Simranjeet Singh “feels like this is the Indian state, or their actors, that are playing their part here to kind of scare them off from…the activism work that he’s doing,” Moninder told CBC News.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-gives-green-light-to-its-13th-sanctions-package-targeting-russia-692352">European Union gives green light to its 13th sanctions package targeting Russia</a>

The statement came after the Surrey RCMP, on the day of the shooting, had said that the “investigators believe this was an isolated incident”.&nbsp;

<h2>India and Canada relations&nbsp;</h2>

Diplomatic relations between India and Canada have been strained since September last year after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his government was investigating a potential link between agents of the Indian government in the killing of Nijjar – a designated terrorist in India.&nbsp;

New Delhi has since denied these allegations calling them “absurd” and “motivated”. The Khalistani separatist leader was killed outside a gurdwara in Surrey city on June 18, 2023.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Canadian police, on Tuesday (Feb 20) said two teenagers have been detained and charged in connection with a shooting at the home of a close associate of slain Khalistani separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar and ruled out the allegations of “foreign interference”.

The Canadian police, on Tuesday (Feb 20) said two teenagers have been detained and charged in connection with a shooting at the home of a close associate of slain Khalistani separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar and ruled out the allegations of “foreign interference”. ‘No foreign interference’ Two 16-year-olds have been charged in connection with the shooting, said the Surrey detachment of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in a statement. Multiple shots had been fired at the residence of an associate of the pro-Khalistan figure Nijjar who was killed in Canada’s Surrey, British Columbia, last year. Since then Khalistani separatist groups in Canada, including Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) had alleged the involvement of the Indian government in the shooting which took place at Simranjeet Singh’s residence on February 1. Officers responded to a report of shots fired at a residence in the 2800-block of 154 Street, on February 1 at around 1:21 am (local time), said the RCMP. “At the time of this incident, there was speculation circulating that this was connected to foreign interference. Investigators have not established any links to foreign interference in relation to this matter,” it added. Also Read | Britain's Trident nuclear missile test fails for the second time in a row The RCMP in Canada’s Surrey also said that they have arrested and charged two 16-year-olds in connection with the shooting. “On February 12, 2024, two 16-year-old males were arrested and the BC Prosecution Service approved charges of Discharging a Firearm into a place and Possessing a Loaded Prohibited Firearm,” said the Canadian police. Allegations against Indian government The shots were fired at Simranjeet Singh’s home, earlier this month, who is reportedly a close associate of Hardeep Singh Nijjar and helped organise a pro-Khalistani protest outside the Indian consulate in Vancouver on January 26. A spokesperson for the British Columbia Gurdwaras Council and prominent figure of the pro-Khalistan movement in Canada, Moninder Singh told CBC News how Simranjeet believes the Indian government is involved in the incident. Simranjeet Singh “feels like this is the Indian state, or their actors, that are playing their part here to kind of scare them off from…the activism work that he’s doing,” Moninder told CBC News. Also Read | European Union gives green light to its 13th sanctions package targeting Russia The statement came after the Surrey RCMP, on the day of the shooting, had said that the “investigators believe this was an isolated incident”. India and Canada relations Diplomatic relations between India and Canada have been strained since September last year after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his government was investigating a potential link between agents of the Indian government in the killing of Nijjar – a designated terrorist in India. New Delhi has since denied these allegations calling them “absurd” and “motivated”. The Khalistani separatist leader was killed outside a gurdwara in Surrey city on June 18, 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

Canadian police found no ‘foreign interference’ behind attack on home of Nijjar’s associate

The annual gathering of intelligence chiefs from around the globe is set to convene in Delhi starting Tuesday (Feb 20), with a two-day agenda packed with discussions on critical issues, primarily centered around counterterrorism efforts.

The meeting will witness the participation of numerous intelligence chiefs from various countries.

The event serves as a crucial platform for sharing insights, strategies, and fostering cooperation among nations to combat evolving security challenges.&nbsp;This year marks the third consecutive year for Delhi to host this significant gathering, which last year saw the participation of 25 intelligence chiefs. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;India PM Modi at GPAI Summit 2023: India to launch AI mission to boost startups

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-pm-modi-at-gpai-summit-2023-india-to-launch-ai-mission-to-boost-startups-world-dna-wion-669118/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

As the global landscape continues to witness evolving security challenges, ranging from terrorism to cyber threats, the annual intelligence chiefs' meet in Delhi is seen vital for information-sharing, and coordinated action.

During this year's intelligence chief's gathering, Canada is being represented at the highest level. This despite the ongoing diplomatic row between India and Canada over New Delhi's concerns regarding Khalistani activities and Ottawa's allegations of Indian connections to Nijjar killing.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw1DRO1B2KeguzBIhnptN6Kb" data-ved="2ahUKEwjV8teE8reEAxXzgVYBHS7ZAYQQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/new-delhi-summit-on-artificial-intelligence-a-quest-for-international-collaboration-670333" jsname="YKoRaf">New Delhi summit on Artificial Intelligence, a quest for international collaboration</a>

The presence of Canadian representatives at the Delhi intelligence chiefs' meet signifies a willingness to engage in dialogue amidst these tensions. This will also be the&nbsp;first such high-level visit from Canada to India since the diplomatic row became public with allegations being made by Canadian PM Justin Trudeau in Canadian Parliament over Nijjar's killing.

In addition to discussions among intelligence officials, in all likelihood, intelligence chiefs will also call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their visit to Delhi.&nbsp;

The timing of the intelligence chiefs' meeting coincides with a week when Delhi will be hosting several foreign ministers as part of the Raisina Dialogue. While Greece PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis&nbsp;will be the chief guest at this year's Raisina Dialogue, several foreign ministers from Europe, in the region-Nepal, Mauritius etc., will be present.

This convergence of global leaders and policymakers underscores Delhi's growing prominence as a hub for international diplomacy and strategic dialogue.

The annual gathering of intelligence chiefs from around the globe is set to convene in Delhi starting Tuesday (Feb 20), with a two-day agenda packed with discussions on critical issues, primarily centered around counterterrorism efforts.

The annual gathering of intelligence chiefs from around the globe is set to convene in Delhi starting Tuesday (Feb 20), with a two-day agenda packed with discussions on critical issues, primarily centered around counterterrorism efforts. The meeting will witness the participation of numerous intelligence chiefs from various countries. The event serves as a crucial platform for sharing insights, strategies, and fostering cooperation among nations to combat evolving security challenges. This year marks the third consecutive year for Delhi to host this significant gathering, which last year saw the participation of 25 intelligence chiefs. Watch: India PM Modi at GPAI Summit 2023: India to launch AI mission to boost startups × As the global landscape continues to witness evolving security challenges, ranging from terrorism to cyber threats, the annual intelligence chiefs' meet in Delhi is seen vital for information-sharing, and coordinated action. During this year's intelligence chief's gathering, Canada is being represented at the highest level. This despite the ongoing diplomatic row between India and Canada over New Delhi's concerns regarding Khalistani activities and Ottawa's allegations of Indian connections to Nijjar killing. Also read: New Delhi summit on Artificial Intelligence, a quest for international collaboration The presence of Canadian representatives at the Delhi intelligence chiefs' meet signifies a willingness to engage in dialogue amidst these tensions. This will also be the first such high-level visit from Canada to India since the diplomatic row became public with allegations being made by Canadian PM Justin Trudeau in Canadian Parliament over Nijjar's killing. In addition to discussions among intelligence officials, in all likelihood, intelligence chiefs will also call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their visit to Delhi. The timing of the intelligence chiefs' meeting coincides with a week when Delhi will be hosting several foreign ministers as part of the Raisina Dialogue. While Greece PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis will be the chief guest at this year's Raisina Dialogue, several foreign ministers from Europe, in the region-Nepal, Mauritius etc., will be present. This convergence of global leaders and policymakers underscores Delhi's growing prominence as a hub for international diplomacy and strategic dialogue.

Exclusive: Global intelligence chiefs to meet in Delhi from Feb 20, Canada to attend

Since the time Canada alleged India's involvement in the killing of Khalistani extremist leader diplomatic ties between the two Nations have taken a nose dive. The expulsion of 41 Canadian diplomats from India has had an unexpected Fallout. Student visas processed by Canada in the year 2023 dipped by a whopping 42%. As per the immigration refugees and citizenship Canada portal when compared to October to December in the year 2022 the number of Indian student permit applications finalized by Canada in the last quarter of 2023 has dipped massively. Watch to know more!

Canada reduces intake of Indian students | Student visas processed by Canada dropped by 42%

The Canadian province of British Columbia announced on Monday (local time) that it will put a hold on approving new colleges seeking to enrol international students for the next two years, until February 2026.

India-Canada diplomatic row: Canada reduces intake of Indian students

The 'Last Chance Lake' in Canada's British Columbia province contains the highest levels of concentrated phosphate ever recorded in any natural body of water on Earth. The shallow body of water reportedly contains precise blend of chemicals that could point to origin of life on Earth.&nbsp;

The salty body of water situated on volcanic rock is much like the carbonate-rich lakes in ancient Earth that could have been a "cradle of life", according to a study.&nbsp;

The finding, published in the <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-023-01192-8">Nature</a> journal, could expand humanity's understanding of how life began.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-discovers-super-earth-with-habitable-zone-this-planet-137-light-years-away-assures-687327">NASA discovers ‘super-Earth’ with habitable zone. This planet 137 light years away assures…</a>

"We were able to look for the specific conditions that people use to synthesise the building blocks of life in nature," the study coauthor David Catling, a University of Washington professor of geosciences, was quoted as saying by CNN.

"We think that we have a very promising place for the origin of life."

<h2>How the study was conducted?</h2>

Between the years 2021 and 2022, a team of researchers visited Last Chance Lake to collect and analyse water and sediment samples. They reportedly discovered that the lake is also a hotbed to the mineral dolomite. They allow phosporous to build up in this environment that formed in response to a reaction between calcium, magnesium and carbonate.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-was-more-charming-for-aliens-when-dinosaurs-existed-657525">Earth was more charming for aliens when dinosaurs existed, suggests study</a>

These reactions effectively produced the unique concentrations of phosphate. Scientists believe that these are the type of conditions that could have led to the emergence of life on Earth.&nbsp;

"We are adding credibility to the idea that this type of environment would be favorable to the origin of life, and is plausible," Sebastian Haas, a postdoctoral researcher studying the microbiology and chemistry of aquatic environments at the University of Washington who led the research paper, was quoted as saying by the CNN.

Also watch |&nbsp;Remains of an ancient planet lie deep within earth

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/remains-of-an-ancient-planet-lie-deep-within-earth-654586/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"There’s every reason to believe that similar lakes would have occurred on the first land about 4 billion years ago because the volcanic rocks that Last Chance Lake sits on are basically a prerequisite for forming soda lakes," Haas said.&nbsp;

<h2>Study supports existing theory on how life appeared on Earth</h2>

A pre-existing theory on how life appeared on Earth billions of years ago is that it began in hydrothermal vents in the deep sea.&nbsp;

The new study adds to the body of evidence that supports the warm little pond hypothesis, according to Matthew Pasek, a professor at the University of South Florida who studies phosphorus chemistry and origin of life sciences but was not involved in the study.

(With inputs from agencies)

The 'Last Chance Lake' in Canada's British Columbia province contains the highest levels of concentrated phosphate ever recorded in any natural body of water on Earth.

The 'Last Chance Lake' in Canada's British Columbia province contains the highest levels of concentrated phosphate ever recorded in any natural body of water on Earth. The shallow body of water reportedly contains precise blend of chemicals that could point to origin of life on Earth. The salty body of water situated on volcanic rock is much like the carbonate-rich lakes in ancient Earth that could have been a "cradle of life", according to a study. The finding, published in the Nature journal, could expand humanity's understanding of how life began. Also read | NASA discovers ‘super-Earth’ with habitable zone. This planet 137 light years away assures… "We were able to look for the specific conditions that people use to synthesise the building blocks of life in nature," the study coauthor David Catling, a University of Washington professor of geosciences, was quoted as saying by CNN. "We think that we have a very promising place for the origin of life." How the study was conducted? Between the years 2021 and 2022, a team of researchers visited Last Chance Lake to collect and analyse water and sediment samples. They reportedly discovered that the lake is also a hotbed to the mineral dolomite. They allow phosporous to build up in this environment that formed in response to a reaction between calcium, magnesium and carbonate. Also read | Earth was more charming for aliens when dinosaurs existed, suggests study These reactions effectively produced the unique concentrations of phosphate. Scientists believe that these are the type of conditions that could have led to the emergence of life on Earth. "We are adding credibility to the idea that this type of environment would be favorable to the origin of life, and is plausible," Sebastian Haas, a postdoctoral researcher studying the microbiology and chemistry of aquatic environments at the University of Washington who led the research paper, was quoted as saying by the CNN. Also watch | Remains of an ancient planet lie deep within earth × "There’s every reason to believe that similar lakes would have occurred on the first land about 4 billion years ago because the volcanic rocks that Last Chance Lake sits on are basically a prerequisite for forming soda lakes," Haas said. Study supports existing theory on how life appeared on Earth A pre-existing theory on how life appeared on Earth billions of years ago is that it began in hydrothermal vents in the deep sea. The new study adds to the body of evidence that supports the warm little pond hypothesis, according to Matthew Pasek, a professor at the University of South Florida who studies phosphorus chemistry and origin of life sciences but was not involved in the study. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada's Last Chance Lake may hold secret to Earth's first chance at life: Study

A theory suggests that when life first emerged on Earth roughly four billion years ago, it looked like a volcanic landscape devoid of flora and fauna rather than an ocean setting.

A theory suggests that when life first emerged on Earth roughly four billion years ago, it looked like a volcanic landscape devoid of flora and fauna rather than an ocean setting. According to a study published in Nature, Last Chance Lake, a shallow, salty body of water on a volcanic rock in the Canadian province of British Columbia, holds a clue that carbonate-rich lakes in ancient Earth could have been the "cradle of life." David Catling, the study co-author and a professor of geosciences at the University of Washington, said, "We were able to look for the specific conditions that people use to synthesise the building blocks of life in nature. We think that we have a very promising place for the origin of life." The research team made the lake a point of study after a literature review unveiled an unpublished thesis from the 1990s, reporting high phosphate levels there. The Last Chance Lake, located on a volcanic plateau in British Columbia, is only a foot deep. It contains the highest levels of concentrated phosphate recorded in any natural body of water on Earth. Phosphate is a critical component of biological molecules, as the chemical compound contains the life-sustaining element phosphorus. RNA and DNA contain phosphate, and it's also present in ATP, a molecule necessary for energy production in all life forms. ALSO READ | ISRO successfully launches INSAT-3DS satellite, adds another feather in its cap According to Sebastian Haas, a postdoctoral researcher studying microbiology and chemistry of aquatic environments at the University of Washington, the abundance of phosphate at Last Chance Lake is over a thousand times more than what is typical for oceans or lakes. The research team visited Last Chance Lake to collect and analyse water and sediment samples between 2021 and 2022. They discovered that the lake has an abundance of phosphate and the mineral dolomite. Dolomite allows phosphorus to build in such an environment. "We are adding credibility to the idea that this environment would be favourable to the origin of life and is plausible," Haas said. However, Last Chance Lake wasn't four billion years old. It's estimated to have been around less than 10,000 years. Although the site is a natural snapshot of the past or a modern analogue, it offers scientists to understand what primordial Earth may have looked like outside of a lab. "There’ a every reason to believe that similar lakes would have occurred on the first land about 4 billion years ago, because the volcanic rocks that Last Chance Lake sits on are basically a prerequisite for forming soda lakes," Haas said. "And what we're partially showing here is that soda lake water chemistry is the prerequisite for these high phosphate levels." (With inputs from agencies)

A shallow, salty lake in Canada may have an explanation for the origin of life on Earth

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged in discussions with Canadian counterpart Melanie Joly during the Munich Security Conference on Friday (Feb 16).&nbsp;The focus of their dialogue encompassed the current state of bilateral relations and global dynamics, amid strains arising from allegations made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau against India regarding the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

The 60th Munich Security Conference commenced as an in-person event, hosting discussions from February 16-18. Under the chairmanship of German Ambassador Christoph Heusgen, the conference serves as a vital platform for addressing global security challenges.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-protest-indian-government-to-enter-fourth-round-of-talks-with-protestors-on-feb-18-691060">Also read |&nbsp;Farmers' protest: Indian government to enter fourth round of talks with protestors on Feb 18</a>

<h2>Bilateral meetings and agenda setting</h2>

Jaishankar's diplomatic agenda included meetings with various counterparts. He convened with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, deliberating on global challenges and preparations for the India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations.

Additionally, discussions with Argentina's Diana Mondino covered economic and political cooperation.

The External Affairs Minister interacted with a spectrum of leaders during the conference. Discussions with Greece's Minister of National Defense Nikos Dendias centred&nbsp;on contemporary security challenges.

Jaishankar also met European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, and exchanged perspectives on global affairs and the likelihood of Borrell's visit to India.

<h2>Dialogue with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken</h2>

Jaishankar engaged in talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, addressing geopolitical issues including West Asia, Ukraine, and the Indo-Pacific. The conversation underscored the ongoing progress in bilateral relations.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Also watch |&nbsp;ISRO commences countdown for 2nd launch mission of 2024</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/isro-commences-countdown-for-2nd-launch-mission-of-2024-691086/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Meetings with United Kingdom Foreign Secretary David Cameron and Bulgaria's Deputy Prime Minister Mariya Gabriel emphasised India's bilateral cooperation and regional engagement. Dialogue with Peru's Foreign Minister Javier Gonzalez Olaechea touched upon United Nations reforms and economic collaboration between India and Peru.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged in discussions with Canadian counterpart Melanie Joly during the Munich Security Conference on Friday (Feb 16).

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged in discussions with Canadian counterpart Melanie Joly during the Munich Security Conference on Friday (Feb 16). The focus of their dialogue encompassed the current state of bilateral relations and global dynamics, amid strains arising from allegations made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau against India regarding the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The 60th Munich Security Conference commenced as an in-person event, hosting discussions from February 16-18. Under the chairmanship of German Ambassador Christoph Heusgen, the conference serves as a vital platform for addressing global security challenges. Also read | Farmers' protest: Indian government to enter fourth round of talks with protestors on Feb 18 Bilateral meetings and agenda setting Jaishankar's diplomatic agenda included meetings with various counterparts. He convened with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, deliberating on global challenges and preparations for the India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations. Additionally, discussions with Argentina's Diana Mondino covered economic and political cooperation. The External Affairs Minister interacted with a spectrum of leaders during the conference. Discussions with Greece's Minister of National Defense Nikos Dendias centred on contemporary security challenges. Jaishankar also met European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, and exchanged perspectives on global affairs and the likelihood of Borrell's visit to India. Dialogue with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken Jaishankar engaged in talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, addressing geopolitical issues including West Asia, Ukraine, and the Indo-Pacific. The conversation underscored the ongoing progress in bilateral relations. Also watch | ISRO commences countdown for 2nd launch mission of 2024 Meetings with United Kingdom Foreign Secretary David Cameron and Bulgaria's Deputy Prime Minister Mariya Gabriel emphasised India's bilateral cooperation and regional engagement. Dialogue with Peru's Foreign Minister Javier Gonzalez Olaechea touched upon United Nations reforms and economic collaboration between India and Peru. (With inputs from agencies)

India: S Jaishankar meets Canadian FM and Antony Blinken in Munich, discusses bilateral ties

The family of an Indian-origin student who passed away in Canada due to a cardiac arrest on Friday (Feb 16) is seeking assistance from External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to repatriate his body to India. The student has been identified as Shaik Muzammil Ahmed, a Hyderabad resident.

<h2>A request for help</h2>

On X, formerly Twitter, Amjad Ullah Khan, a leader from the Telangana-based political party Majlis Bachao Tehreek (MBT), confirmed the news of the 25-year-old student's death and stated that Ahmed's family has sought assistance from Union Minister S Jaishankar.

According to Khan, Ahmed, a Master's student in IT at Conestoga College in Ontario, had been suffering from a fever for the past week. On Friday, his family received a call from a friend informing them of his sudden demise.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-police-identifies-indian-origin-techie-as-suspect-in-family-murder-suicide-case-690859">US: Indian-origin techie killed family, then self in apparent murder-suicide, police say</a>

In a letter to Jaishankar, Ahmed's uncle expressed the family's shock and requested the Indian High Commission in Ottawa and the Consulate General of India in Toronto to expedite the repatriation process.

"@DrSJaishankar&nbsp;Sir, One Shaik Muzammil Ahmed-25 years from Hyderabad, Telangana State pursuing Masters in IT from Conestoga College, Waterloo Campus in Kitchener City in Ontario, Canada since Dec 2022 was suffering from fever since last one week, but his family received a call from his friend that he died due to cardiac arrest today," reads the&nbsp;post shared on X by Khan.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
.<a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> Sir, One Shaik Muzammil Ahmed-25 years from Hyderabad, Telangana State persuing Masters in IT from Conestoga College, Waterloo Campus in Kitchener City in Ontario, Canada since Dec 2022 was suffering from fever since last one week, but his family received a call… <a href="https://t.co/hvA1munXaX">pic.twitter.com/hvA1munXaX</a>
— Amjed Ullah Khan MBT (@amjedmbt) <a href="https://twitter.com/amjedmbt/status/1758248796088148426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Along with the post, the Telangana leader shared a letter written by Muzammil Ahmed's uncle Mahammed Amzad.&nbsp;

"On hearing this news his parents and entire family is in a state of shock, and we request you to kindly send his mortal remains back to Hyderabad as soon as possible," read&nbsp;the letter.&nbsp;

This tragic incident, as per a Hindustan Times report, comes in the wake of another incident where an Indian student, Syed Mazahir Ali, was brutally attacked in Chicago, as previously highlighted by Khan.

(With inputs from agencies)

The family of an Indian-origin student who passed away in Canada due to a cardiac arrest on Friday (Feb 16) is seeking assistance from External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to repatriate his body to India.

The family of an Indian-origin student who passed away in Canada due to a cardiac arrest on Friday (Feb 16) is seeking assistance from External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to repatriate his body to India. The student has been identified as Shaik Muzammil Ahmed, a Hyderabad resident. A request for help On X, formerly Twitter, Amjad Ullah Khan, a leader from the Telangana-based political party Majlis Bachao Tehreek (MBT), confirmed the news of the 25-year-old student's death and stated that Ahmed's family has sought assistance from Union Minister S Jaishankar. According to Khan, Ahmed, a Master's student in IT at Conestoga College in Ontario, had been suffering from a fever for the past week. On Friday, his family received a call from a friend informing them of his sudden demise. Also read | US: Indian-origin techie killed family, then self in apparent murder-suicide, police say In a letter to Jaishankar, Ahmed's uncle expressed the family's shock and requested the Indian High Commission in Ottawa and the Consulate General of India in Toronto to expedite the repatriation process. "@DrSJaishankar Sir, One Shaik Muzammil Ahmed-25 years from Hyderabad, Telangana State pursuing Masters in IT from Conestoga College, Waterloo Campus in Kitchener City in Ontario, Canada since Dec 2022 was suffering from fever since last one week, but his family received a call from his friend that he died due to cardiac arrest today," reads the post shared on X by Khan. .@DrSJaishankar Sir, One Shaik Muzammil Ahmed-25 years from Hyderabad, Telangana State persuing Masters in IT from Conestoga College, Waterloo Campus in Kitchener City in Ontario, Canada since Dec 2022 was suffering from fever since last one week, but his family received a call… pic.twitter.com/hvA1munXaX — Amjed Ullah Khan MBT (@amjedmbt) February 15, 2024 × Along with the post, the Telangana leader shared a letter written by Muzammil Ahmed's uncle Mahammed Amzad. "On hearing this news his parents and entire family is in a state of shock, and we request you to kindly send his mortal remains back to Hyderabad as soon as possible," read the letter. This tragic incident, as per a Hindustan Times report, comes in the wake of another incident where an Indian student, Syed Mazahir Ali, was brutally attacked in Chicago, as previously highlighted by Khan. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian student dies in Canada, family appeals to MEA for help in bringing back mortal remains

A Montreal-based Canadian teacher has been caught red-handed for allegedly selling his students’ art pieces on his personal website. The teacher, identified as Mario Perron teaches arts at Montreal’s Westwood Junior High School, and this distasteful discovery was made by his students when they stumbled upon Perron’s personal website.

The students were shocked to find their artwork on coffee mugs, mobile cases and other items for sale on Perron’s website. Some were in complete disbelief and told their parents.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailands-jailed-pm-thaksin-shinawatra-to-taste-freedom-due-to-old-age-689745">Thailand's jailed PM Thaksin Shinawatra to taste freedom due to old age</a>

“Imagine your 13-year-old son coming home from school today with a story that his art teacher is selling students’ artwork online at $94 per drawing without their prior knowledge!? That is completely insane,” parent Joel DeBellefeuille posted on social media. “I’m sure I’m not the only parent that wants answers.”

<h2>Art teacher put up his students’ art pieces for sale on website</h2>

Perron, whose identity was uncovered by CTV News, described himself as a “life-long student of art”. His artworks have been displayed in private collections in Canada, the US, Spain and Italy, as per his official website.

Many art pieces by students were found displayed on coffee mugs, notebooks, mobile cases and other such items with titles like- Julia’s Creepy Portrait, and Charlotte’s Creepy Portrait, apparently referring to the names of students who created the art.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-house-of-khalistani-terrorist-pannuns-aide-inderjit-singh-gosal-shot-at-689763">Canada: House of Khalistani terrorist Pannun's aide Inderjit Singh Gosal shot at</a>

After a complaint from parents on Monday, the links of the art pieces have now been routed to Perron’s paintings and the student art can no longer be purchased. Perron’s other social media accounts, including his pages on Instagram and Facebook, have also been taken down.&nbsp;

“I’m extremely disgusted with this person. It’s extremely, you know, it’s unbelievable,” Michael Bennett, who found work from both his daughters for sale, told CTV News. “Is [Perron] asking for these types of portraits to be done so it meets the market? I’m not quite sure about that aspect. However, I am not impressed at all with this person. I’m not impressed with the school, or the school board … [My daughters] feel cheated.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-proposes-hezbollah-withdrawal-border-talks-for-israel-lebanon-truce-689774">France proposes Hezbollah withdrawal, border talks for Israel-Lebanon truce</a>

The school board said in the official statement that they were “aware of the situation” and the administration is taking these allegations very seriously. The school also said that an investigation is “underway” and the board would not comment any further.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A Montreal-based Canadian teacher has been caught red-handed for allegedly selling his students’ art pieces on his personal website. The teacher, identified as Mario Perron teaches arts at Montreal’s Westwood Junior High School, and this distasteful discovery was made by his students when they stumbled upon Perron’s personal website.

A Montreal-based Canadian teacher has been caught red-handed for allegedly selling his students’ art pieces on his personal website. The teacher, identified as Mario Perron teaches arts at Montreal’s Westwood Junior High School, and this distasteful discovery was made by his students when they stumbled upon Perron’s personal website. The students were shocked to find their artwork on coffee mugs, mobile cases and other items for sale on Perron’s website. Some were in complete disbelief and told their parents. Also Read | Thailand's jailed PM Thaksin Shinawatra to taste freedom due to old age “Imagine your 13-year-old son coming home from school today with a story that his art teacher is selling students’ artwork online at $94 per drawing without their prior knowledge!? That is completely insane,” parent Joel DeBellefeuille posted on social media. “I’m sure I’m not the only parent that wants answers.” Art teacher put up his students’ art pieces for sale on website Perron, whose identity was uncovered by CTV News, described himself as a “life-long student of art”. His artworks have been displayed in private collections in Canada, the US, Spain and Italy, as per his official website. Many art pieces by students were found displayed on coffee mugs, notebooks, mobile cases and other such items with titles like- Julia’s Creepy Portrait, and Charlotte’s Creepy Portrait, apparently referring to the names of students who created the art. Also Read | Canada: House of Khalistani terrorist Pannun's aide Inderjit Singh Gosal shot at After a complaint from parents on Monday, the links of the art pieces have now been routed to Perron’s paintings and the student art can no longer be purchased. Perron’s other social media accounts, including his pages on Instagram and Facebook, have also been taken down. “I’m extremely disgusted with this person. It’s extremely, you know, it’s unbelievable,” Michael Bennett, who found work from both his daughters for sale, told CTV News. “Is [Perron] asking for these types of portraits to be done so it meets the market? I’m not quite sure about that aspect. However, I am not impressed at all with this person. I’m not impressed with the school, or the school board … [My daughters] feel cheated.” Also Read | France proposes Hezbollah withdrawal, border talks for Israel-Lebanon truce The school board said in the official statement that they were “aware of the situation” and the administration is taking these allegations very seriously. The school also said that an investigation is “underway” and the board would not comment any further. (With inputs from agencies)

Canadian art teacher allegedly sells students' art on his website, 'investigation underway'

The house of an aide of Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun was shot at in Ontario, police said on Monday (Feb 12). The development occurred amid recent accusations by Canada and the United States that linked New Delhi with targeted eliminations of individuals listed as terrorists in India.&nbsp;

Constable Tyler Bell-Morena said Peel Regional Police were alerted by construction crews about what appeared to be "a bullet hole in a window of the home" of Inderjit Singh Gosal in the province of Ontario, and are investigating.

<h2>Who is Inderjit Singh Gosal?&nbsp;</h2>

Gosal is also a close associate of prominent Sikh separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, an American citizen listed as a terrorist in India due to his call for a separate Sikh state, a denounced secessionist cause.

There were no injuries in the shooting as the Brampton, Ontario, home is under construction and currently unoccupied.

"We understand who this person is and his affiliations, but it's just too early for us to speculate that there's any connection" to other violence and threats, Bell-Morena told AFP.

"We are obviously investigating it with all avenues in mind," he added.

Pannun, writing on social media, called the incident a "drive-by shooting".

<h2>India-Canada ties in recent months</h2>

Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in September directly linked New Delhi to the killing of another Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.&nbsp;

As Trudeau went public with his accusation, the Ottawa-New Delhi ties nosedived with New Delhi briefly imposing visa restrictions on Canadians and forcing Canada to withdraw its diplomats.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-for-new-delhi-a-silver-lining-in-ottawas-assassination-accusation-639207">The Capitals: For New Delhi, a silver-lining in Ottawa's assassination accusation</a>

The free trade agreement negotiations were suspended too.&nbsp;

Later, Washington accused that an Indian government official was allegedly involved in planning the assassination of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.

Also watch |&nbsp;Pannun 'murder plot': White House says, 'US taking the matter seriously' | The India Story

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pannun-murder-plot-white-house-says-us-taking-the-matter-seriously-the-india-story-665252/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Earlier this month, unidentified men, later identified as teenagers, shot at the British Columbia home of Simranjeet Singh, an associate of Nijjar.&nbsp;

India has called upon the Western countries to curb&nbsp;the support for separatism in India from abroad in the name of free speech. In the UK, the US, and Canada, the denounced cause of Khalistan continues to find radical refuge.

(With inputs from agencies)

The house of an aide of Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun was shot at in Ontario, police said on Monday (Feb 12). The development occurred amid recent accusations by Canada and the United States that linked New Delhi with targeted eliminations of individuals listed as terrorists in India.

The house of an aide of Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun was shot at in Ontario, police said on Monday (Feb 12). The development occurred amid recent accusations by Canada and the United States that linked New Delhi with targeted eliminations of individuals listed as terrorists in India. Constable Tyler Bell-Morena said Peel Regional Police were alerted by construction crews about what appeared to be "a bullet hole in a window of the home" of Inderjit Singh Gosal in the province of Ontario, and are investigating. Who is Inderjit Singh Gosal? Gosal is also a close associate of prominent Sikh separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, an American citizen listed as a terrorist in India due to his call for a separate Sikh state, a denounced secessionist cause. There were no injuries in the shooting as the Brampton, Ontario, home is under construction and currently unoccupied. "We understand who this person is and his affiliations, but it's just too early for us to speculate that there's any connection" to other violence and threats, Bell-Morena told AFP. "We are obviously investigating it with all avenues in mind," he added. Pannun, writing on social media, called the incident a "drive-by shooting". India-Canada ties in recent months Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in September directly linked New Delhi to the killing of another Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. As Trudeau went public with his accusation, the Ottawa-New Delhi ties nosedived with New Delhi briefly imposing visa restrictions on Canadians and forcing Canada to withdraw its diplomats. Also read | The Capitals: For New Delhi, a silver-lining in Ottawa's assassination accusation The free trade agreement negotiations were suspended too. Later, Washington accused that an Indian government official was allegedly involved in planning the assassination of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Also watch | Pannun 'murder plot': White House says, 'US taking the matter seriously' | The India Story × Earlier this month, unidentified men, later identified as teenagers, shot at the British Columbia home of Simranjeet Singh, an associate of Nijjar. India has called upon the Western countries to curb the support for separatism in India from abroad in the name of free speech. In the UK, the US, and Canada, the denounced cause of Khalistan continues to find radical refuge. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada: House of Khalistani terrorist Pannun's aide Inderjit Singh Gosal comes under gunfire

The controversy over a Nazi war veteran in Canadian Parliament is far from over, it has now been revealed that Hunka was invited by Prime Minister Trudeau to attend a rally in Toronto.

Canada: Nazi war veteran controversy continues, now recieves Zelensky's rally invitation

India has firmly rejected Canada's claims of interference in Canadian democratic processes. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal dismissed the allegations as unfounded during a routine press briefing&nbsp;on Thursday (Feb 8).&nbsp;This comes as the Canadian Security Intelligence Service labelled India as a 'foreign interference threat' in a recent report.&nbsp;

While highlighting that India has a commitment to non-interference in other nations' democratic procedures, the MEA spokesperson stated, "We strongly reject such baseless allegations of Indian interference in Canadian elections."

Moreover, Jaiswal accused Canada of meddling in India's internal affairs. He underscored India's consistent communication with Canada on this matter and urged Canada to address India's concerns effectively.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/two-jetblue-planes-collide-at-boston-airport-us-regulators-investigate-688437">Two JetBlue planes collide at Boston Airport; US regulators investigate</a>

“In fact, quite the reverse, it is Canada who has been interfering in our internal affairs. We have been raising this issue regularly with them, and we continue to call on Canada to take effective measures to address our core concerns."&nbsp;

In the Canadian intel report, China and Russia were also mentioned for their alleged meddling in Canadian politics. The report pointed at China as the primary threat to Canadian democracy.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-advances-95-billion-ukraine-israel-aid-bill-after-failed-border-deal-688435">US Senate advances $95 billion Ukraine, Israel aid bill after failed border deal</a>

In the wake of this report, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced a probe into alleged Indian interference in the country's elections in 2019 and 2021.

Besides the purported involvement in Canada's electoral system, China is also facing accusations of establishing illicit police stations throughout Canada.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-drone-strike-kills-pro-iran-commander-in-baghdad-688418">US drone strike kills pro-Iran commander in Baghdad</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-drone-strike-kills-pro-iran-commander-in-baghdad-688418/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Diplomatic tensions between India and Canada escalated following Trudeau's assertion in the country's parliament regarding 'credible allegations' against New Delhi in the assassination of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Subsequently, a tit-for-tat exchange of diplomat expulsions ensued, exacerbating the strained relations between the two countries.

Earlier, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, in a hard-hitting statement against Canada over its elections interference allegations said it is like "the pot calling the kettle black".&nbsp;"I was....what shall I say, the phrase which came to my mind was actually a Hindi phrase which was: 'Ulta chor kotwal ko daantey' (the pot calling the kettle black)," Jaishankar added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India has firmly rejected Canada's claims of interference in Canadian democratic processes. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal dismissed the allegations as unfounded during a routine press briefing on Thursday (Feb 8).

India has firmly rejected Canada's claims of interference in Canadian democratic processes. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal dismissed the allegations as unfounded during a routine press briefing on Thursday (Feb 8). This comes as the Canadian Security Intelligence Service labelled India as a 'foreign interference threat' in a recent report. While highlighting that India has a commitment to non-interference in other nations' democratic procedures, the MEA spokesperson stated, "We strongly reject such baseless allegations of Indian interference in Canadian elections." Moreover, Jaiswal accused Canada of meddling in India's internal affairs. He underscored India's consistent communication with Canada on this matter and urged Canada to address India's concerns effectively. Also Read | Two JetBlue planes collide at Boston Airport; US regulators investigate “In fact, quite the reverse, it is Canada who has been interfering in our internal affairs. We have been raising this issue regularly with them, and we continue to call on Canada to take effective measures to address our core concerns." In the Canadian intel report, China and Russia were also mentioned for their alleged meddling in Canadian politics. The report pointed at China as the primary threat to Canadian democracy. Also Read | US Senate advances $95 billion Ukraine, Israel aid bill after failed border deal In the wake of this report, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced a probe into alleged Indian interference in the country's elections in 2019 and 2021. Besides the purported involvement in Canada's electoral system, China is also facing accusations of establishing illicit police stations throughout Canada. Watch | US drone strike kills pro-Iran commander in Baghdad × Diplomatic tensions between India and Canada escalated following Trudeau's assertion in the country's parliament regarding 'credible allegations' against New Delhi in the assassination of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Subsequently, a tit-for-tat exchange of diplomat expulsions ensued, exacerbating the strained relations between the two countries. Earlier, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, in a hard-hitting statement against Canada over its elections interference allegations said it is like "the pot calling the kettle black". "I was....what shall I say, the phrase which came to my mind was actually a Hindi phrase which was: 'Ulta chor kotwal ko daantey' (the pot calling the kettle black)," Jaishankar added. (With inputs from agencies)

MEA dismisses Canada's election interference accusations, says it's meddling in India's internal affairs

Five Indian-origin people were arrested by Canadian police on charges of&nbsp;incidents such as "mischief to property, threats,&nbsp;and firearms-related offences." The three men and two women charged by the Peel extortion authorities in help with Ontario Provincial Police reportedly made the South Asian business community within the Greater Toronto area their target. The Peel Regional Police Extortion Investigative Task Force (EITF) on January 24, 2024, executed a search warrant at a residence in the City of Brampton and booked four individuals.&nbsp;

It includes&nbsp;23-year-old Gagan Ajit Singh from Brampton, 23-year-old Anmoldeep Singh from Mississauga, 25-year-old Hashmeet Kaur from Brampton, and 21-year-old&nbsp;Iymanjot Kaur from Brampton.&nbsp;

Gagan Ajit Singh was charged with two instances of "extortion, uttering threats to cause death,&nbsp;discharge firearms with intent, arson causing damage to property,&nbsp;unauthorised possession of a firearm,&nbsp;possession of a prohibited device, possession of a firearm knowing its possession is unauthorised,&nbsp;possession of prohibited or restricted firearm with ammunition fraud over $5000."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-advances-95-billion-ukraine-israel-aid-bill-after-failed-border-deal-688435">US Senate advances $95 billion Ukraine, Israel aid bill after failed border deal</a>

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Anmoldeep Singh was charged with multiple firearm offences and fraud of over&nbsp;$5000. The others were also charged with firearms offences. The fifth person charged is 39-year-old Arundeep Thind. As per the police authorities, Thind has no fixed address and is charged with the extortion offence.&nbsp;

The extortion task force was reportedly established in response to a surge in reports from South Asian business owners concerning threats of violence if they failed to comply with monetary demands.

Superintendent Shelley Thompson, who oversees the task force unit, disclosed that the targeted businesses encompassed various sectors such as restaurants, bakeries, used car dealerships and trucking companies all owned by individuals of South Asian descent.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-willfully-retained-classified-documents-but-no-criminal-charges-warranted-special-counsel-688431">Biden 'willfully retained' classified documents, but no criminal charges warranted: Special counsel</a>

Moreover, at a presser, he also revealed that&nbsp;24 charges have been levelled about 29 attempts at extortion. The modus operandi involved contacting owners via phone calls, social media platforms, or video calling services like WhatsApp.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-drone-strike-kills-pro-iran-commander-in-baghdad-688418">US drone strike kills pro-Iran commander in Baghdad</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-drone-strike-kills-pro-iran-commander-in-baghdad-688418/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Perpetrators always requested cash or money transfers in either Canadian dollars or Indian rupees. While no injuries were reported in connection with the extortion attempts, nine instances involved gunfire directed at unoccupied businesses. The investigation has also revealed similar extortion attempts in other Canadian cities like Edmonton and the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, as well as in various jurisdictions in the US.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Five Indian-origin people were arrested by Canadian police on charges of incidents such as "mischief to property, threats, and firearms-related offences." The three men and two women charged by the Peel extortion authorities in help with Ontario Provincial Police reportedly made the South Asian business community within the Greater Toronto area their target.

Five Indian-origin people were arrested by Canadian police on charges of incidents such as "mischief to property, threats, and firearms-related offences." The three men and two women charged by the Peel extortion authorities in help with Ontario Provincial Police reportedly made the South Asian business community within the Greater Toronto area their target. The Peel Regional Police Extortion Investigative Task Force (EITF) on January 24, 2024, executed a search warrant at a residence in the City of Brampton and booked four individuals. It includes 23-year-old Gagan Ajit Singh from Brampton, 23-year-old Anmoldeep Singh from Mississauga, 25-year-old Hashmeet Kaur from Brampton, and 21-year-old Iymanjot Kaur from Brampton. Gagan Ajit Singh was charged with two instances of "extortion, uttering threats to cause death, discharge firearms with intent, arson causing damage to property, unauthorised possession of a firearm, possession of a prohibited device, possession of a firearm knowing its possession is unauthorised, possession of prohibited or restricted firearm with ammunition fraud over $5000." Also Read | US Senate advances $95 billion Ukraine, Israel aid bill after failed border deal Meanwhile, Anmoldeep Singh was charged with multiple firearm offences and fraud of over $5000. The others were also charged with firearms offences. The fifth person charged is 39-year-old Arundeep Thind. As per the police authorities, Thind has no fixed address and is charged with the extortion offence. The extortion task force was reportedly established in response to a surge in reports from South Asian business owners concerning threats of violence if they failed to comply with monetary demands. Superintendent Shelley Thompson, who oversees the task force unit, disclosed that the targeted businesses encompassed various sectors such as restaurants, bakeries, used car dealerships and trucking companies all owned by individuals of South Asian descent. Also Read | Biden 'willfully retained' classified documents, but no criminal charges warranted: Special counsel Moreover, at a presser, he also revealed that 24 charges have been levelled about 29 attempts at extortion. The modus operandi involved contacting owners via phone calls, social media platforms, or video calling services like WhatsApp. Watch | US drone strike kills pro-Iran commander in Baghdad × Perpetrators always requested cash or money transfers in either Canadian dollars or Indian rupees. While no injuries were reported in connection with the extortion attempts, nine instances involved gunfire directed at unoccupied businesses. The investigation has also revealed similar extortion attempts in other Canadian cities like Edmonton and the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, as well as in various jurisdictions in the US. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada: Police arrest 5 Indian-origin people for extortion, firearms offences targeting South Asian businesses

canada

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