The overall number of cases and deaths per million population due to COVID-19 in the country is low compared to similarly affected countries, Minister of State for Health Ashwini Kumar Choubey told Rajya Sabha on Sunday.

Noting that there are no established pharmaceutical interventions that can break the chain of transmission, Mr Choubey said non-pharmaceutical interventions such as hand and respiratory hygiene, wearing of mask/face cover, physical distancing measures, preventing large gatherings, etc are the only tools to suppress and break the chain of transmission.

This has to be in turn supported by heightened community awareness and behavioral change communication.

He was responding to a question on the reasons for spread of COVID-19 at an increased rate despite lower numbers at the initial stage in India as compared to other countries.

"COVID-19 is a highly infectious disease. Many of the epidemiological parameters such as agent-host interaction, socio-cultural and environmental factors, modes of transmission, susceptibility of individuals, immune response are still under research," Mr Choubey said in a written reply.

The Government of India since January, has followed a pre-emptive, graded and proactive approach for managing COVID-19, the minister said.

States have been supported in terms of logistics, funding and technical guidance right from the beginning.

To blunt the progression of cases in the country, the government had taken series of steps under Disaster Management Act, 2005 including lockdown, Mr Choubey highlighted.

"This in effect reduced the growth rate of cases, increased community awareness, and the period was utilized to upgrade health infrastructure and health staff capacities which has supported the country in terms of managing the disease.

"In effect, the overall number of cases and deaths per million population due to COVID-19 in the country is low compared to similarly affected countries," Mr Choubey said.

The overall number of cases and deaths per million population due to COVID-19 in the country is low compared to similarly affected countries, Minister of State for Health Ashwini Kumar Choubey told Rajya Sabha on Sunday.

The overall number of cases and deaths per million population due to COVID-19 in the country is low compared to similarly affected countries, Minister of State for Health Ashwini Kumar Choubey told Rajya Sabha on Sunday. Noting that there are no established pharmaceutical interventions that can break the chain of transmission, Mr Choubey said non-pharmaceutical interventions such as hand and respiratory hygiene, wearing of mask/face cover, physical distancing measures, preventing large gatherings, etc are the only tools to suppress and break the chain of transmission. This has to be in turn supported by heightened community awareness and behavioral change communication. He was responding to a question on the reasons for spread of COVID-19 at an increased rate despite lower numbers at the initial stage in India as compared to other countries. "COVID-19 is a highly infectious disease. Many of the epidemiological parameters such as agent-host interaction, socio-cultural and environmental factors, modes of transmission, susceptibility of individuals, immune response are still under research," Mr Choubey said in a written reply. The Government of India since January, has followed a pre-emptive, graded and proactive approach for managing COVID-19, the minister said. States have been supported in terms of logistics, funding and technical guidance right from the beginning. To blunt the progression of cases in the country, the government had taken series of steps under Disaster Management Act, 2005 including lockdown, Mr Choubey highlighted. "This in effect reduced the growth rate of cases, increased community awareness, and the period was utilized to upgrade health infrastructure and health staff capacities which has supported the country in terms of managing the disease. "In effect, the overall number of cases and deaths per million population due to COVID-19 in the country is low compared to similarly affected countries," Mr Choubey said.

India's Covid deaths per million population among lowest in world: Centre 

The COVID-19 recovery rate in India has risen to 77.31 per cent with 69,564 patients recuperating from the disease in 24 hours pushing the total number of recoveries to 32.5 lakh, the health ministry said on Monday.

The case fatality rate has further dropped to 1.7 per cent, it said.

According to the ministry, five states are contributing 60 per cent of the total cases with Maharashtra at the top accounting for 21.6 per cent cases, followed by Andhra Pradesh with 11.8 per cent, Tamil Nadu 11 per cent, Karnataka 9.5 per cent and Uttar Pradesh 6.3 per cent.

Maharashtra also contributed 26.76 per cent of the active cases in the country, followed by Andhra Pradesh 11.30 per cent, Karnataka 11.25 per cent, Uttar Pradesh 6.98 per cent and Tamil Nadu 5.83 per cent.

These five states combined presently contribute 62 per cent of total active cases, the ministry said.

"On a continuous upward trajectory, India's total recovered cases have crossed 32.5 lakh today, with 69,564 patients being discharged in the last 24 hours. This has resulted in the recovery rate touching 77.31 per cent," it said in a statement.

In the last 24 hours, Andhra Pradesh recorded the highest recoveries at 11,915.

Karnataka and Maharashtra saw 9,575 and 7,826 recoveries respectively.

Tamil Nadu witnessed 5,820 people recuperating from the disease and Uttar Pradesh 4,779 recoveries during the same period, it said.

"These five states together contributed 57 per cent of the recoveries in the last 24 hours," the health ministry said.

It said various calibrated and focussed actions undertaken within the umbrella strategy of 'test, track and treat' have enabled early identification of cases through aggressive and wide-scale testing.

"Better ambulance services and seamless point-to-point management of patients to facilitate their timely hospitalisation before their health deteriorates has led to a high number of COVID-19 patients recovering and being discharged from the hospitals," the ministry said.

It further said supervised isolation in homes and facility settings, following effective standard of care protocol, have hugely aided in the recovery of mild and moderate cases.

India's COVID-19 tally of cases went past 42 lakh On Monday with a record 90,802 people being infected in a day, according to the Union health ministry data.

The total number of coronavirus cases mounted to 42,04,613, while the death toll climbed to 71,642 with 1,016 fatalities being reported in 24 hours, the data updated at 8 am showed.

The COVID-19 recovery rate in India has risen to 77.31 per cent with 69,564 patients recuperating from the disease in 24 hours pushing the total number of recoveries to 32.

The COVID-19 recovery rate in India has risen to 77.31 per cent with 69,564 patients recuperating from the disease in 24 hours pushing the total number of recoveries to 32.5 lakh, the health ministry said on Monday. The case fatality rate has further dropped to 1.7 per cent, it said. According to the ministry, five states are contributing 60 per cent of the total cases with Maharashtra at the top accounting for 21.6 per cent cases, followed by Andhra Pradesh with 11.8 per cent, Tamil Nadu 11 per cent, Karnataka 9.5 per cent and Uttar Pradesh 6.3 per cent. Maharashtra also contributed 26.76 per cent of the active cases in the country, followed by Andhra Pradesh 11.30 per cent, Karnataka 11.25 per cent, Uttar Pradesh 6.98 per cent and Tamil Nadu 5.83 per cent. These five states combined presently contribute 62 per cent of total active cases, the ministry said. "On a continuous upward trajectory, India's total recovered cases have crossed 32.5 lakh today, with 69,564 patients being discharged in the last 24 hours. This has resulted in the recovery rate touching 77.31 per cent," it said in a statement. In the last 24 hours, Andhra Pradesh recorded the highest recoveries at 11,915. Karnataka and Maharashtra saw 9,575 and 7,826 recoveries respectively. Tamil Nadu witnessed 5,820 people recuperating from the disease and Uttar Pradesh 4,779 recoveries during the same period, it said. "These five states together contributed 57 per cent of the recoveries in the last 24 hours," the health ministry said. It said various calibrated and focussed actions undertaken within the umbrella strategy of 'test, track and treat' have enabled early identification of cases through aggressive and wide-scale testing. "Better ambulance services and seamless point-to-point management of patients to facilitate their timely hospitalisation before their health deteriorates has led to a high number of COVID-19 patients recovering and being discharged from the hospitals," the ministry said. It further said supervised isolation in homes and facility settings, following effective standard of care protocol, have hugely aided in the recovery of mild and moderate cases. India's COVID-19 tally of cases went past 42 lakh On Monday with a record 90,802 people being infected in a day, according to the Union health ministry data. The total number of coronavirus cases mounted to 42,04,613, while the death toll climbed to 71,642 with 1,016 fatalities being reported in 24 hours, the data updated at 8 am showed.

COVID-19 recoveries in India cross 32 lakh, fatality rate drops to 1.7 per cent: Centre

The government of India on Wednesday allowed Indian airlines to increase the number of domestic passenger flights to 60 per cent of their pre-COVID services.

The average occupancy rate in domestic flights since their resumption in India on May 25 has been around 50-60 per cent only.

Scheduled international passenger flights continue to remain suspended in the country since March 23 due to the pandemic.

However, special international flights have been operating under Vande Bharat Mission since May and under bilateral air bubble pacts signed with various countries since July.

Meanwhile, India's coronavirus tally inched closer to 38 lakh mark with single-day spike of 78,357 new positive cases and 1,045 deaths in the past 24 hours.

With the latest spike, the total COVID-19 cases in India has surged to 37,69,524. Of the total cases, 8,01,282 are active cases while 29,01,909 have been cured and discharged from hospitals.

(With inputs from agencies)

The government of India on Wednesday allowed Indian airlines to increase the number of domestic passenger flights to 60 per cent of their pre-COVID services. The average occupancy rate in domestic flights since their resumption in India on May 25 has been around 50-60 per cent only.

The government of India on Wednesday allowed Indian airlines to increase the number of domestic passenger flights to 60 per cent of their pre-COVID services. The average occupancy rate in domestic flights since their resumption in India on May 25 has been around 50-60 per cent only. Scheduled international passenger flights continue to remain suspended in the country since March 23 due to the pandemic. However, special international flights have been operating under Vande Bharat Mission since May and under bilateral air bubble pacts signed with various countries since July. Meanwhile, India's coronavirus tally inched closer to 38 lakh mark with single-day spike of 78,357 new positive cases and 1,045 deaths in the past 24 hours. With the latest spike, the total COVID-19 cases in India has surged to 37,69,524. Of the total cases, 8,01,282 are active cases while 29,01,909 have been cured and discharged from hospitals. (With inputs from agencies)

Centre allows airlines to fly 60 per cent of their pre-COVID domestic passenger flights

The Government of India has decided to remove all the inefficient and corrupt employees of the several&nbsp;departments, an order from the Personnel Ministry said.

To execute this plan, Centre has asked all its departments to review the service records of employees who have completed 30 years in the job.

"It is clarified that the premature retirement of government servants under these rules is not a penalty. It is distinct from 'compulsory retirement', which is one of the prescribed penalties under Central Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1965," said the order that was issued on Friday.

The government may, at any time after a government servant has attained the age of 50/55 years or completed 30 years of service, as the case may be, retire him/her prematurely in the public interest, it said.

Instructions have been issued from time to time for undertaking periodic review of the performance of government servants with a view to ascertain whether they should be retained in service or retired prematurely, the ministry said.

The latest order has been issued in order to bring in better clarity to the existing instructions and enable uniform implementation, it said. 
"An effort has been made to review, consolidate and reiterate the guidelines so far issued on the subject at one place," the ministry said in the order issued to the secretaries of all central government departments.

Giving details on the applicability of FR 56 (J), the order said the service record of a group A and B category officer can be reviewed if he/she has attained the age of 50 years (in case of joining service before 35 years of age) or after attaining 55 years (in case of joining service after 35 years of age).

Under FR 56 (I), the appropriate authority has the absolute right to retire a government servant in Group C service or post who is not governed by any pension rules, after he has completed 30 years' service by giving him/her notice of not less than three months in writing or three months' pay and allowances in lieu of such notice, it said.

For employees covered under Rule 48 (1) (b) of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972, it said the review can be done at any time after a government servant has completed 30 years' qualifying service.

"... and in the case of such retirement, the government servant shall be entitled to a retiring pension, provided that the appointing authority may also give notice in writing to a government servant at least three months before the date on which he is required to retire in the public interest or three months' pay and allowances in lieu of such notice," said the order.

The Personnel Ministry has also asked all the departments to maintain a register for conducting such a review.

"A register of the government servants who are due to attain the age of 50/55 years or to complete 30 years of service, has to be maintained. The register should be scrutinized at the beginning of every quarter by a senior officer in the ministry/ department/ cadre...," it said.

The Personnel Ministry has mentioned the composition of a review committee and broad criteria to be followed by it while conducting an assessment of the employees' performance.

"Government servants whose integrity is doubtful shall be retired. Government servants found to be ineffective shall also be retired. The basic consideration in identifying such government servants should be their fitness/competence to continue in the post held," it said.

"No government servant should ordinarily be retired on ground of ineffectiveness, if, in any event, he would be retiring on superannuation within a period of one year from the date of consideration of his case," reads the criteria mentioned in the order.

However, in the case where there is a sudden and steep fall in the competence, efficiency or effectiveness of a government servant, it will be open to review such a case also for premature retirement, it said.

The entire service record, in addition to the Annual Performance Appraisal Report (APAR), of a government servant should be considered at the time of review, the order said.

"The personal file of the government servant may contain valuable material. Similarly, his work and performance could also be assessed by looking into files dealt with by him or in any papers or reports prepared and submitted by him," it said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Government of India has decided to remove all the inefficient and corrupt employees of the several departments, an order from the Personnel Ministry said. To execute this plan, Centre has asked all its departments to review the service records of employees who have completed 30 years in the job.

The Government of India has decided to remove all the inefficient and corrupt employees of the several departments, an order from the Personnel Ministry said. To execute this plan, Centre has asked all its departments to review the service records of employees who have completed 30 years in the job. "It is clarified that the premature retirement of government servants under these rules is not a penalty. It is distinct from 'compulsory retirement', which is one of the prescribed penalties under Central Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1965," said the order that was issued on Friday. The government may, at any time after a government servant has attained the age of 50/55 years or completed 30 years of service, as the case may be, retire him/her prematurely in the public interest, it said. Instructions have been issued from time to time for undertaking periodic review of the performance of government servants with a view to ascertain whether they should be retained in service or retired prematurely, the ministry said. The latest order has been issued in order to bring in better clarity to the existing instructions and enable uniform implementation, it said. "An effort has been made to review, consolidate and reiterate the guidelines so far issued on the subject at one place," the ministry said in the order issued to the secretaries of all central government departments. Giving details on the applicability of FR 56 (J), the order said the service record of a group A and B category officer can be reviewed if he/she has attained the age of 50 years (in case of joining service before 35 years of age) or after attaining 55 years (in case of joining service after 35 years of age). Under FR 56 (I), the appropriate authority has the absolute right to retire a government servant in Group C service or post who is not governed by any pension rules, after he has completed 30 years' service by giving him/her notice of not less than three months in writing or three months' pay and allowances in lieu of such notice, it said. For employees covered under Rule 48 (1) (b) of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972, it said the review can be done at any time after a government servant has completed 30 years' qualifying service. "... and in the case of such retirement, the government servant shall be entitled to a retiring pension, provided that the appointing authority may also give notice in writing to a government servant at least three months before the date on which he is required to retire in the public interest or three months' pay and allowances in lieu of such notice," said the order. The Personnel Ministry has also asked all the departments to maintain a register for conducting such a review. "A register of the government servants who are due to attain the age of 50/55 years or to complete 30 years of service, has to be maintained. The register should be scrutinized at the beginning of every quarter by a senior officer in the ministry/ department/ cadre...," it said. The Personnel Ministry has mentioned the composition of a review committee and broad criteria to be followed by it while conducting an assessment of the employees' performance. "Government servants whose integrity is doubtful shall be retired. Government servants found to be ineffective shall also be retired. The basic consideration in identifying such government servants should be their fitness/competence to continue in the post held," it said. "No government servant should ordinarily be retired on ground of ineffectiveness, if, in any event, he would be retiring on superannuation within a period of one year from the date of consideration of his case," reads the criteria mentioned in the order. However, in the case where there is a sudden and steep fall in the competence, efficiency or effectiveness of a government servant, it will be open to review such a case also for premature retirement, it said. The entire service record, in addition to the Annual Performance Appraisal Report (APAR), of a government servant should be considered at the time of review, the order said. "The personal file of the government servant may contain valuable material. Similarly, his work and performance could also be assessed by looking into files dealt with by him or in any papers or reports prepared and submitted by him," it said. (With inputs from agencies)

Centre to remove inefficient and corrupt employees, asks departments to review service records

The Centre on Tuesday told the Supreme Court that a special committee looking into the issue of internet restoration in Jammu and Kashmir has decided to provide 4G internet access on a trial basis in limited areas of the union territory after August 15.

A bench headed by Justice N V Ramana was told by Attorney General K K Venugopal, appearing for the Centre, that the committee has decided that trial will be done in one district each in Jammu and Kashmir division.

He said that the Committee has decided that access to 4G internet in J-K will be given in a calibrated manner and outcome of the trial will be reviewed after two months.

The bench also comprising Justices R Subhash Reddy and B R Gavai said this is a fairly good stand on the part of the respondents (Centre and J-K administration).

High speed internet service in J&amp;K was suspended in August last year when the Centre announced revocation of its special status and bifurcation of the state into two UTs -- Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir.

On August 7, the top court had asked the J&amp;K administration to explore the possibility of restoring 4G services in certain areas of the Union Territory.

The Centre on Tuesday told the Supreme Court that a special committee looking into the issue of internet restoration in Jammu and Kashmir has decided to provide 4G internet access on a trial basis in limited areas of the union territory after August 15.

The Centre on Tuesday told the Supreme Court that a special committee looking into the issue of internet restoration in Jammu and Kashmir has decided to provide 4G internet access on a trial basis in limited areas of the union territory after August 15. A bench headed by Justice N V Ramana was told by Attorney General K K Venugopal, appearing for the Centre, that the committee has decided that trial will be done in one district each in Jammu and Kashmir division. He said that the Committee has decided that access to 4G internet in J-K will be given in a calibrated manner and outcome of the trial will be reviewed after two months. The bench also comprising Justices R Subhash Reddy and B R Gavai said this is a fairly good stand on the part of the respondents (Centre and J-K administration). High speed internet service in J&K was suspended in August last year when the Centre announced revocation of its special status and bifurcation of the state into two UTs -- Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir. On August 7, the top court had asked the J&K administration to explore the possibility of restoring 4G services in certain areas of the Union Territory.

Centre allows 4G internet services on trial basis in two J&K districts after August 15

The Shiv Sena on Monday said it is the Centre's responsibility to make arrangements for sending migrant labourers to their native places in the wake of the lockdown enforced to contain the spread of coronavirus.

Several migrant labourers have been residing in the coronavirus hotspots of Mumbai's Dharavi slum area, it noted.

"It is the Centres responsibility to arrange trains and buses so that labourers could reach their homes," an editorial in Sena mouthpiece 'Saamana' said.

If these people continue to flock the streets, it is not safe for their health, the Marathi publication said, adding that the Centre cannot shrug off its responsibility.

"We wish that the kind of promptness shown by the Centre for the return of some Gujarati tourists from Haridwar (in Uttarakhand), should also be shown for migrant labourers," it said.

"These people are homesick and we cannot assess what would happen if they gather on streets," it added.

Without taking any names, the Sena said it feared that some people in Maharashtra would "instigate" the migrant labourers for their petty political gains.

It also took a dim view of the incident where hundreds of migrants gathered near Bandra station in Mumbai earlier this month and demanded that authorities make transport arrangements for them to go back to their native places.

The Sena said Maharashtra needs to take note of each and every labourer who gathered there, make necessary arrangements to send them back home and ensure to "foil" their any future attempt to come back to the state.

"These migrants should have trusted the state as it is trying to arrange food and shelter for them. If any other state has done so much for them, they should bring it to our notice," the Uddhav Thackeray-led said.

It also referred to some recent comments of Union minister Nitin Gadkari on the need for policy measures to create jobs in rural areas and check migration to cities for employment.

"What Gadkari has said is crucial. If these people wish to return to Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, how are they going to feed themselves?&nbsp;

There is no work for these people anywhere in the country during the current crisis," the Sena said.

The Shiv Sena on Monday said it is the Centre's responsibility to make arrangements for sending migrant labourers to their native places in the wake of the lockdown enforced to contain the spread of coronavirus.

The Shiv Sena on Monday said it is the Centre's responsibility to make arrangements for sending migrant labourers to their native places in the wake of the lockdown enforced to contain the spread of coronavirus. Several migrant labourers have been residing in the coronavirus hotspots of Mumbai's Dharavi slum area, it noted. "It is the Centres responsibility to arrange trains and buses so that labourers could reach their homes," an editorial in Sena mouthpiece 'Saamana' said. If these people continue to flock the streets, it is not safe for their health, the Marathi publication said, adding that the Centre cannot shrug off its responsibility. "We wish that the kind of promptness shown by the Centre for the return of some Gujarati tourists from Haridwar (in Uttarakhand), should also be shown for migrant labourers," it said. "These people are homesick and we cannot assess what would happen if they gather on streets," it added. Without taking any names, the Sena said it feared that some people in Maharashtra would "instigate" the migrant labourers for their petty political gains. It also took a dim view of the incident where hundreds of migrants gathered near Bandra station in Mumbai earlier this month and demanded that authorities make transport arrangements for them to go back to their native places. The Sena said Maharashtra needs to take note of each and every labourer who gathered there, make necessary arrangements to send them back home and ensure to "foil" their any future attempt to come back to the state. "These migrants should have trusted the state as it is trying to arrange food and shelter for them. If any other state has done so much for them, they should bring it to our notice," the Uddhav Thackeray-led said. It also referred to some recent comments of Union minister Nitin Gadkari on the need for policy measures to create jobs in rural areas and check migration to cities for employment. "What Gadkari has said is crucial. If these people wish to return to Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, how are they going to feed themselves? There is no work for these people anywhere in the country during the current crisis," the Sena said.

Shiv Sena pushes for evacuation of migrants, says Centre should arrange for workers to go home

After clashes erupted between pro and anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) protestors in North-East Delhi, AAP leader Aman Arora on Tuesday said that the Centre has "miserably failed" to handle law and order situation in the national capital.

After clashes erupted between pro and anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) protestors in North-East Delhi, AAP leader Aman Arora on Tuesday said that the Centre has "miserably failed" to handle law and order situation in the national capital. "Firstly, the Centre, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have implemented the wrong legislation. Secondly, they have miserably failed to handle the situation. Law and order in Delhi come under Amit Shah and they are responsible for this mess," Arora told reporters. He said that the nation-wide protests against CAA and National Register of Citizens (NRC) are because of the laws enacted by the Home Ministry and the central government. Also Read: Amit Shah chairs meet with Kejriwal, others to discuss situation in Delhi "Unfortunately, the Prime Minister and Amit Shah tried to take political benefit out of it due to the Delhi Assembly elections instead of resolving that issue," Arora said. He added, "The nation wants to know why the Centre is delaying to diffuse the situation and something like this would not have emerged if they had handled the situation properly." Also Read: One policeman killed in clashes during CAA protests in Delhi Arora's remarks came after seven people were killed and over 100 injured in clashes over CAA in North-East Delhi on Monday. Section 144 of the CrPC has been imposed in Khajuri Khas and Bhajanpura of the national capital on Tuesday in the wake of violent incidents in these areas. Earlier today, Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a meeting with Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Police Commissioner Amulya Patnaik and other political leaders regarding the violence and prevailing situation in Delhi.

Centre 'miserably failed' to handle law and order in Delhi: AAP's Aman Arora

A day after the Bodo pact was signed, senior Assam minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday said that the Centre is willing to hold peace talks with ULFA (Independent) faction and appealed to its leader Paresh Barua to come to the negotiating table.

Sarma, also the North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) convenor, told reporters here that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had clearly said on Monday that if the anti-talk ULFA(I) faction is ready for negotiations, then “the Centre is more than willing to hold dialogue with them for the sake of permanent peace in Assam and the Northeast.”

“A historic Accord was signed on Monday through discussions with all the factions of the NDFB. The Centre and state government want peace in the region through dialogue,” Sarma said, referring to the Bodo pact.

Most of the militant outfits in the northeastern states, barring some in Assam and Manipur, are holding talks but “if we want peace in the region, it should be inclusive by involving all the factions and the outfits,” he said. The offer comes a few days after ULFA(I) claimed responsibility for four serial blasts in Upper Assam districts on the Republic Day.

A day after the Bodo pact was signed, senior Assam minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday said that the Centre is willing to hold peace talks with ULFA (Independent) faction and appealed to its leader Paresh Barua to come to the negotiating table.

A day after the Bodo pact was signed, senior Assam minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday said that the Centre is willing to hold peace talks with ULFA (Independent) faction and appealed to its leader Paresh Barua to come to the negotiating table. Sarma, also the North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) convenor, told reporters here that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had clearly said on Monday that if the anti-talk ULFA(I) faction is ready for negotiations, then “the Centre is more than willing to hold dialogue with them for the sake of permanent peace in Assam and the Northeast.” “A historic Accord was signed on Monday through discussions with all the factions of the NDFB. The Centre and state government want peace in the region through dialogue,” Sarma said, referring to the Bodo pact. Most of the militant outfits in the northeastern states, barring some in Assam and Manipur, are holding talks but “if we want peace in the region, it should be inclusive by involving all the factions and the outfits,” he said. The offer comes a few days after ULFA(I) claimed responsibility for four serial blasts in Upper Assam districts on the Republic Day.

Centre ready to hold peace talks with ULFA(I), says Himanta Biswa Sarma

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday launched an official plan to tackle water scarcity in the country, focussing on seven states where groundwater levels are critically low.

"New India has to be prepared to deal with any situation of the water crisis," PM Modi said at the launch event.

Earlier, the Union Cabinet gave its approval for the implementation of the Atal Bhujal Yojana, a central sector scheme with a total outlay of Rs 6,000 crore to be implemented over five years (2020-2021 to 2024-2025).

The scheme aims to improve groundwater management through community participation in identified priority areas in seven states -- Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. Implementation of the scheme is expected to benefit nearly 8,350-gram panchayats in 78 districts in these states.

The States have been selected according to several criteria, including the degree of groundwater exploitation and degradation, established legal and regulatory instruments, institutional readiness, and experience in implementing initiatives related to groundwater management.

(With inputs from ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday launched an official plan to tackle water scarcity in the country, focussing on seven states where groundwater levels are critically low.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday launched an official plan to tackle water scarcity in the country, focussing on seven states where groundwater levels are critically low. "New India has to be prepared to deal with any situation of the water crisis," PM Modi said at the launch event. Earlier, the Union Cabinet gave its approval for the implementation of the Atal Bhujal Yojana, a central sector scheme with a total outlay of Rs 6,000 crore to be implemented over five years (2020-2021 to 2024-2025). The scheme aims to improve groundwater management through community participation in identified priority areas in seven states -- Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. Implementation of the scheme is expected to benefit nearly 8,350-gram panchayats in 78 districts in these states. The States have been selected according to several criteria, including the degree of groundwater exploitation and degradation, established legal and regulatory instruments, institutional readiness, and experience in implementing initiatives related to groundwater management. (With inputs from ANI)

Centre launches Rs 6000 crore Atal Bhujal Yojana to improve groundwater management 

The Delhi High Court has asked the Central government to take a decision on the extension of free education to disadvantaged children even after attaining the age of 14 years or beyond.

"We expect from respondent No 1 [Union government] that the policy decision of extension of free education under the of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 to children of disadvantaged group even after attaining the age of 14 years or beyond Class VIII up to Class XII in the same school, would be taken at the earliest. It will be a major policy decision which involves financial aspect," a bench of Chief Justice D N Patel and Justice C Hari Shankar said.

The court was hearing a plea filed by a civil right group Social Jurist through advocate Ashok Agarwal.

The government had earlier told the court a new national education policy is presently under formulation.

The issue of extension of the RTE Act beyond elementary level is a major policy decision and has been discussed by the Committee set up for preparing a draft of National Policy on Education, it said.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Delhi High Court has asked the Central government to take a decision on the extension of free education to disadvantaged children even after attaining the age of 14 years or beyond.

The Delhi High Court has asked the Central government to take a decision on the extension of free education to disadvantaged children even after attaining the age of 14 years or beyond. "We expect from respondent No 1 [Union government] that the policy decision of extension of free education under the of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 to children of disadvantaged group even after attaining the age of 14 years or beyond Class VIII up to Class XII in the same school, would be taken at the earliest. It will be a major policy decision which involves financial aspect," a bench of Chief Justice D N Patel and Justice C Hari Shankar said. The court was hearing a plea filed by a civil right group Social Jurist through advocate Ashok Agarwal. The government had earlier told the court a new national education policy is presently under formulation. The issue of extension of the RTE Act beyond elementary level is a major policy decision and has been discussed by the Committee set up for preparing a draft of National Policy on Education, it said.

Delhi High Court asks Centre to decide on extension of free education beyond age of 14 years

The Central government on Friday said that it is ready to accept suggestions from people protesting the Citizenship Amendment Act.&nbsp;

The development comes after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-citizenship-amendment-act-protests-3-killed-section-144-imposed-in-several-districts-of-uttar-pradesh-269311">protesters across the country took to the streets</a> against the new law which seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh.

Students, activists, among others have been voicing their dissent against the new Act amid heavy security.&nbsp;

Section 144 has been imposed in many parts of the country while internet services have also been affected in some areas.&nbsp;

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MHA sources on people protesting on roads against CAA: We brought the Bill after we consulted all, there were discussions. But they have the right to go to court &amp; people have right to protest too. Those who want to give suggestions can give, we're in process of framing the rule. <a href="https://t.co/6BNAm7CW6q">https://t.co/6BNAm7CW6q</a>
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Meanwhile, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) sources have said that the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act is under the Central government's control and will finalise who all will be involved in the enforcement of legislation, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

"Implementation of the Act is under centre. We will finalise who all will be involved in implementation. It will be a digital and easy process so that people don't face any problem," MHA sources on some states denying implementation of the new citizenship law.

Sources said that the ministry is in the process of framing rules for CAA and people can give their suggestions.

"We brought the Bill after we consulted all, there were discussions. But, they have the right to go to the court and the people have the right to protest too. Those who want to give suggestions can give. We`re in process of framing the rule," they said on the protests against CAA adding that the CAA will not affect the Indian citizens.&nbsp;

"If any country has illegal migrants than the government has the right to through them out anyway," sources said on international bodies' reaction on CAA.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

The Central government on Friday said that it is ready to accept suggestions from people protesting the Citizenship Amendment Act. The development comes after protesters across the country took to the streets against the new law which seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh.

The Central government on Friday said that it is ready to accept suggestions from people protesting the Citizenship Amendment Act. The development comes after protesters across the country took to the streets against the new law which seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh. Students, activists, among others have been voicing their dissent against the new Act amid heavy security. Section 144 has been imposed in many parts of the country while internet services have also been affected in some areas. MHA sources on people protesting on roads against CAA: We brought the Bill after we consulted all, there were discussions. But they have the right to go to court & people have right to protest too. Those who want to give suggestions can give, we're in process of framing the rule. https://t.co/6BNAm7CW6q — ANI (@ANI) December 20, 2019 × Meanwhile, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) sources have said that the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act is under the Central government's control and will finalise who all will be involved in the enforcement of legislation, news agency ANI reported. "Implementation of the Act is under centre. We will finalise who all will be involved in implementation. It will be a digital and easy process so that people don't face any problem," MHA sources on some states denying implementation of the new citizenship law. Sources said that the ministry is in the process of framing rules for CAA and people can give their suggestions. "We brought the Bill after we consulted all, there were discussions. But, they have the right to go to the court and the people have the right to protest too. Those who want to give suggestions can give. We`re in process of framing the rule," they said on the protests against CAA adding that the CAA will not affect the Indian citizens. "If any country has illegal migrants than the government has the right to through them out anyway," sources said on international bodies' reaction on CAA. (With inputs from ANI)

Centre seeks suggestions from protesters over Citizenship Amendment Act

The youth has a major role to play in the vision of "New India" and the Centre was coming up with new education policy to strengthen the education system in the country and make education employment-oriented, Union Human Resource Development Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal said on Friday. 
 
Speaking at the 25th convocation ceremony of Himachal Pradesh University, Pokhriyal said: "The youth has a major role to play in the vision of 'New India'. The Union government was coming up with a new education policy to strengthen the education system in the country and make education employment-oriented." 
 
The Union Minister said that India was known as the 'Vishwa Guru' across the world since time immemorial due to knowledge and wisdom. 
 
Stating that India believes in universal brotherhood and peaceful co-existence, he said: "The challenges in life become opportunities for those who accept them. With the launch of schemes such as 'Make in India', Skill India, Start-Up etc., there were ample employment and self-employment opportunities to the youth of the country." 
 
He urged the students to work with dedication to make India a five trillion economy in the next few years. 
 
As many as 448 degrees and gold medals were awarded on the occasion to meritorious students, out of which 276 were females and 172 males. 
 
State Governor Bandaru Dattatraya said that the aim of education should be gaining knowledge along with character building. He called upon the students to develop skills along with higher education, which would help to get employment. 
 
Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said that the state government was committed to providing quality education to students of the state by strengthening the existing infrastructure.

"The motto of the government was to make Himachal Pradesh an 'education hub' of the country," he said.

The youth has a major role to play in the vision of "New India" and the Centre was coming up with new education policy to strengthen the education system in the country and make education employment-oriented, Union Human Resource Development Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal said on Friday.

The youth has a major role to play in the vision of "New India" and the Centre was coming up with new education policy to strengthen the education system in the country and make education employment-oriented, Union Human Resource Development Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal said on Friday. Speaking at the 25th convocation ceremony of Himachal Pradesh University, Pokhriyal said: "The youth has a major role to play in the vision of 'New India'. The Union government was coming up with a new education policy to strengthen the education system in the country and make education employment-oriented." The Union Minister said that India was known as the 'Vishwa Guru' across the world since time immemorial due to knowledge and wisdom. Stating that India believes in universal brotherhood and peaceful co-existence, he said: "The challenges in life become opportunities for those who accept them. With the launch of schemes such as 'Make in India', Skill India, Start-Up etc., there were ample employment and self-employment opportunities to the youth of the country." He urged the students to work with dedication to make India a five trillion economy in the next few years. As many as 448 degrees and gold medals were awarded on the occasion to meritorious students, out of which 276 were females and 172 males. State Governor Bandaru Dattatraya said that the aim of education should be gaining knowledge along with character building. He called upon the students to develop skills along with higher education, which would help to get employment. Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said that the state government was committed to providing quality education to students of the state by strengthening the existing infrastructure. "The motto of the government was to make Himachal Pradesh an 'education hub' of the country," he said.

Centre to strengthen education system, make it employment-oriented: Ramesh Pokhriyal

The Centre has extended the ban on the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) for five more years.

According to the notification issued by Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the organisation has been indulging in illegal and violent activities intended to disrupt, or which may disrupt, the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India in furtherance of its objective of achieving a separate "Bodoland".

"NDFB is aligning itself with other undergrounds outfits of the North Eastern Region in furtherance of its objectives to create a separate Bodoland and engaging in unlawful and violent activities thereby undermining the authority of the Government of India and the Government of Assam and spreading terror and panic among the people," the notification said.

The Home Ministry has also said that the group has indulged in extortion of money from various sections of the society with a view to financing and executing its plans for the creation of a separate Bodoland; embarking on a systematic drive for the recruitment of fresh cadres with a view to continuing its terrorist and insurgency activities.

"NDFB creating carnage and ethnic violence resulting in killings, destruction of property of non-Bodos inhabiting the Bodo dominated areas in Assam with a view to spreading panic and insecurity among the non-Bodos, establishing camps and hideouts across the country`s border to carry out its secessionist activities; and obtaining assistance from anti-India forces in other countries to procure arms and other assistance in its struggle for the creation of a separate Bodoland," MHA said.

The Centre has also mentioned the number of incidents carried out by the organisation over the past few years.

"Killing of 19 civilians in incidents of violence since January 2015; and involvement in about sixty-two violent incidents since January 2015 in which fifty-five extremists have been killed, four hundred fifty extremists have been arrested and four hundred forty-four arms have been recovered from them."

"Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (37 of 1967), (hereinafter referred to as the said Act) the Central Government hereby declares the National Democratic Front of Bodoland, along with all its groups, factions and front organisations, as an "unlawful association"," the notification said.

"The Central Government, is of the opinion that it is necessary to declare the NDFB to be an unlawful association with immediate effect, and accordingly, in exercise of powers conferred by the proviso to sub-section (3) of section 3 of the said Act, hereby directs that this notification shall, subject to any order that may be made under section 4 of the said Act, have effect from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette," the notification said.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Centre has extended the ban on the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) for five more years. According to the notification issued by Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the organisation has been indulging in illegal and violent activities intended to disrupt, or which may disrupt, the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India in furtherance of its objective of achieving a separate "Bodoland".

The Centre has extended the ban on the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) for five more years. According to the notification issued by Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the organisation has been indulging in illegal and violent activities intended to disrupt, or which may disrupt, the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India in furtherance of its objective of achieving a separate "Bodoland". "NDFB is aligning itself with other undergrounds outfits of the North Eastern Region in furtherance of its objectives to create a separate Bodoland and engaging in unlawful and violent activities thereby undermining the authority of the Government of India and the Government of Assam and spreading terror and panic among the people," the notification said. The Home Ministry has also said that the group has indulged in extortion of money from various sections of the society with a view to financing and executing its plans for the creation of a separate Bodoland; embarking on a systematic drive for the recruitment of fresh cadres with a view to continuing its terrorist and insurgency activities. "NDFB creating carnage and ethnic violence resulting in killings, destruction of property of non-Bodos inhabiting the Bodo dominated areas in Assam with a view to spreading panic and insecurity among the non-Bodos, establishing camps and hideouts across the country`s border to carry out its secessionist activities; and obtaining assistance from anti-India forces in other countries to procure arms and other assistance in its struggle for the creation of a separate Bodoland," MHA said. The Centre has also mentioned the number of incidents carried out by the organisation over the past few years. "Killing of 19 civilians in incidents of violence since January 2015; and involvement in about sixty-two violent incidents since January 2015 in which fifty-five extremists have been killed, four hundred fifty extremists have been arrested and four hundred forty-four arms have been recovered from them." "Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (37 of 1967), (hereinafter referred to as the said Act) the Central Government hereby declares the National Democratic Front of Bodoland, along with all its groups, factions and front organisations, as an "unlawful association"," the notification said. "The Central Government, is of the opinion that it is necessary to declare the NDFB to be an unlawful association with immediate effect, and accordingly, in exercise of powers conferred by the proviso to sub-section (3) of section 3 of the said Act, hereby directs that this notification shall, subject to any order that may be made under section 4 of the said Act, have effect from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette," the notification said.

Centre extends ban on Assam's Bodo insurgent group NDFB for 5 more years

The Centre on Thursday told the Supreme Court that there is normalcy in Kashmir and the situation which is being depicted about the region is "incorrect."

Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, made these contentions on a petition filed by Kashmir Times Editor Anuradha Bhasin on the imposition of communication blockade in the region.

She has alleged that following the revocation of its special status, the Central government had disabled various media activities.

"The petitioner (Anuradha Bhasin) has chosen not to publish the newspaper from Kashmir. It is her wish. There were no restrictions as such. There is normalcy of life in Kashmir. The situation presented and depicted is incorrect," Mehta told a bench headed by Justice N V Ramana.

Mehta said that access to the internet, printers and other facilities was given to the media professionals.

"At regular intervals, media professionals were briefed and provided press briefs. Media kiosks were facilitated at the DCP offices to various media professionals," Mehta said.

While justifying certain restrictions imposed in the region, the Solicitor General said that authorities had applied their minds in imposing or lifting the curbs.

"It is a preventive measure. It is not a long drawn trial. It is not a danger to public life. Ninety-nine per cent people are happy and living a normal life there," he said.

In August, the Central government scrapped Article 370 and bifurcated the erstwhile state into two UTs -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Following this, phone lines and the internet were blocked in the region.

Normalcy is gradually returning to Jammu and Kashmir as mobile and landline services have been restored in both UTs and restrictions under Section 144 on movement have been withdrawn or relaxed.

The Centre on Thursday told the Supreme Court that there is normalcy in Kashmir and the situation which is being depicted about the region is "incorrect." Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, made these contentions on a petition filed by Kashmir Times Editor Anuradha Bhasin on the imposition of communication blockade in the region.

The Centre on Thursday told the Supreme Court that there is normalcy in Kashmir and the situation which is being depicted about the region is "incorrect." Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, made these contentions on a petition filed by Kashmir Times Editor Anuradha Bhasin on the imposition of communication blockade in the region. She has alleged that following the revocation of its special status, the Central government had disabled various media activities. "The petitioner (Anuradha Bhasin) has chosen not to publish the newspaper from Kashmir. It is her wish. There were no restrictions as such. There is normalcy of life in Kashmir. The situation presented and depicted is incorrect," Mehta told a bench headed by Justice N V Ramana. Mehta said that access to the internet, printers and other facilities was given to the media professionals. "At regular intervals, media professionals were briefed and provided press briefs. Media kiosks were facilitated at the DCP offices to various media professionals," Mehta said. While justifying certain restrictions imposed in the region, the Solicitor General said that authorities had applied their minds in imposing or lifting the curbs. "It is a preventive measure. It is not a long drawn trial. It is not a danger to public life. Ninety-nine per cent people are happy and living a normal life there," he said. In August, the Central government scrapped Article 370 and bifurcated the erstwhile state into two UTs -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Following this, phone lines and the internet were blocked in the region. Normalcy is gradually returning to Jammu and Kashmir as mobile and landline services have been restored in both UTs and restrictions under Section 144 on movement have been withdrawn or relaxed.

There is normalcy in Kashmir: Centre tells Supreme Court

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shahs-call-for-hindi-as-national-language-triggers-political-row-249706">Union Home Minister Amit Shah</a> chaired the 29th meeting of the Northern Zonal Council (NZC) here on Friday.

The Chief Minister of Haryana Manohar Lal Khattar, who is also Vice-Chairman of the Council, hosted the meeting.

The Northern Zonal Council consists of Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Jammu &amp; Kashmir, and Delhi.

Chief Ministers from the member states in the zone along with two ministers each, administrators of Union Territories, Chief Secretaries and senior officers from the State Governments and the Central Government are members of NZC.

The Council takes up issues involving Centre and States and one/many States falling in the Zone. The Zonal Councils thus provide a forum for resolving disputes and irritants between Centre and States and among many States in the Zone.

The Zonal Councils discuss a broad range of issues which include boundary-related disputes, security, infrastructure-related matters like road, transport, industries, water, power, matters pertaining to forests and environment, housing, education, food security, tourism, transport, etc.

Five Zonal Councils were set up in the year 1957 under the States Reorganization Act, 1956. The Union Home Minister is the Chairman of each of these five Zonal Councils and Chief Ministers of the host State (to be chosen by routine every year) is the Vice-Chairman. Two more Ministers from each State are nominated as Members by the Governor.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired the 29th meeting of the Northern Zonal Council (NZC) here on Friday. The Chief Minister of Haryana Manohar Lal Khattar, who is also Vice-Chairman of the Council, hosted the meeting.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired the 29th meeting of the Northern Zonal Council (NZC) here on Friday. The Chief Minister of Haryana Manohar Lal Khattar, who is also Vice-Chairman of the Council, hosted the meeting. The Northern Zonal Council consists of Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Jammu & Kashmir, and Delhi. Chief Ministers from the member states in the zone along with two ministers each, administrators of Union Territories, Chief Secretaries and senior officers from the State Governments and the Central Government are members of NZC. The Council takes up issues involving Centre and States and one/many States falling in the Zone. The Zonal Councils thus provide a forum for resolving disputes and irritants between Centre and States and among many States in the Zone. The Zonal Councils discuss a broad range of issues which include boundary-related disputes, security, infrastructure-related matters like road, transport, industries, water, power, matters pertaining to forests and environment, housing, education, food security, tourism, transport, etc. Five Zonal Councils were set up in the year 1957 under the States Reorganization Act, 1956. The Union Home Minister is the Chairman of each of these five Zonal Councils and Chief Ministers of the host State (to be chosen by routine every year) is the Vice-Chairman. Two more Ministers from each State are nominated as Members by the Governor.

Home Minister Amit Shah chairs 29th meeting of Northern Zonal Council

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notices to the Centre, Twitter, Google, and YouTube on a plea filed by Facebook seeking transfer to the court petitions pending before different high courts, demanding to interlink of Aadhaar database with social media profiles.

Several petitions are pending before Madras, Bombay and Madhya Pradesh High Courts seeking their direction for the interlinking of Aadhaar data with social media accounts for identity authentication.

A bench of Justice Deepak Gupta and Justice Aniruddha Bose said the Madras High Court shall continue hearing the pleas but shall not pass any order.

The apex court will further take up the matter for hearing on September 13.

The petition was filed by the social media giant last week. Facebook and WhatsApp told the bench that the matter should be adjudicated by it and sought transfer of petitions pending before high courts to the top court as any order passed against them will have global ramifications.

Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Facebook, argued that the issue is of such a magnitude that only the top court should take a decision on it.

"It affects the privacy of the whole nation. This is the policy matter," he said.

Rohatgi further argued that any order passed by the high courts will have wider ramifications as Facebook is a global entity and it has to abide by laws of different nations.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for WhatsApp, told the court that the Central government is concerned about the messaging platform's end-to-end encryption and it is looking into it to frame some guidelines.

"While the government is dealing with this matter, let all the pleas come here. This can't be decided by high courts, it's a policy issue and should be decided by the Supreme Court. These are very serious issues," Sibal added.

Attorney General KK Venugopal, appearing for the Tamil Nadu government, contended that 18 hearings have taken place on the petitions in the Madras High Court and the judgement would come in another month.

"Facebook should not object to it," he said.

Citing the example of the controversial Blue Whale challenge, he argued that social media platforms should provide details about the origin of a message.

"Online games like the Blue Whale caused deaths in India because service providers did not provide details of the 'originator'. We had a serious situation during the Blue Whale game. Government of India struggled to find out about its originator, some said it's from Russia. Government is not equipped to detect the originator," Venugopal said.

He further said,&nbsp;"It is pertinent for social media platforms to share data with law enforcement agencies to ensure criminal activities like abetment to suicide or call for violence inter alia, through these platforms is curbed."After hearing the arguments, the bench said that a balance has to be struck between the protection of people's privacy online as well as a mechanism to identify people who commit an online criminal offence."

There is a conflict between the right to privacy and the duty to prevent crimes online. There is no doubt that there has to be a balance between the two," the court observed.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notices to the Centre, Twitter, Google, and YouTube on a plea filed by Facebook seeking transfer to the court petitions pending before different high courts, demanding to interlink of Aadhaar database with social media profiles.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notices to the Centre, Twitter, Google, and YouTube on a plea filed by Facebook seeking transfer to the court petitions pending before different high courts, demanding to interlink of Aadhaar database with social media profiles. Several petitions are pending before Madras, Bombay and Madhya Pradesh High Courts seeking their direction for the interlinking of Aadhaar data with social media accounts for identity authentication. A bench of Justice Deepak Gupta and Justice Aniruddha Bose said the Madras High Court shall continue hearing the pleas but shall not pass any order. The apex court will further take up the matter for hearing on September 13. The petition was filed by the social media giant last week. Facebook and WhatsApp told the bench that the matter should be adjudicated by it and sought transfer of petitions pending before high courts to the top court as any order passed against them will have global ramifications. Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Facebook, argued that the issue is of such a magnitude that only the top court should take a decision on it. "It affects the privacy of the whole nation. This is the policy matter," he said. Rohatgi further argued that any order passed by the high courts will have wider ramifications as Facebook is a global entity and it has to abide by laws of different nations. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for WhatsApp, told the court that the Central government is concerned about the messaging platform's end-to-end encryption and it is looking into it to frame some guidelines. "While the government is dealing with this matter, let all the pleas come here. This can't be decided by high courts, it's a policy issue and should be decided by the Supreme Court. These are very serious issues," Sibal added. Attorney General KK Venugopal, appearing for the Tamil Nadu government, contended that 18 hearings have taken place on the petitions in the Madras High Court and the judgement would come in another month. "Facebook should not object to it," he said. Citing the example of the controversial Blue Whale challenge, he argued that social media platforms should provide details about the origin of a message. "Online games like the Blue Whale caused deaths in India because service providers did not provide details of the 'originator'. We had a serious situation during the Blue Whale game. Government of India struggled to find out about its originator, some said it's from Russia. Government is not equipped to detect the originator," Venugopal said. He further said, "It is pertinent for social media platforms to share data with law enforcement agencies to ensure criminal activities like abetment to suicide or call for violence inter alia, through these platforms is curbed."After hearing the arguments, the bench said that a balance has to be struck between the protection of people's privacy online as well as a mechanism to identify people who commit an online criminal offence." There is a conflict between the right to privacy and the duty to prevent crimes online. There is no doubt that there has to be a balance between the two," the court observed.

Supreme Court issues notices to Centre, social media majors on Facebook plea

The Centre on Friday sought one more week to decide on the implementation of Supreme Court Collegium`s recommendation to appoint Bombay High Court`s Justice Akil Kureshi as Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh High Court.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted before a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi that the issue will be considered and Centre needs one week time.

"The decision of the Centre will be informed to the Collegium," Tushar Mehta told the bench.&nbsp;

The Bench indicated that the date will be fixed on the administrative side for a hearing next week.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, the Supreme Court had asked the Centre to take a decision by August 14 on the recommendation of the Court`s Collegium to appoint Akil Kureshi as the Chief Justice of the Madhya Pradesh High Court.&nbsp;

The Solicitor General had said that the matter was under consideration and sought two weeks.&nbsp;

The plea was filed by the Gujarat High Court Advocates` Association seeking a direction to the Centre to implement the Supreme Court collegium`s recommendation to appoint Akil Kureshi as Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh High Court.

The Advocates` Association said that Kureshi was appointed as a judge of Gujarat High Court in 2004 and was functioning as acting Chief Justice of High Court when he was transferred to Bombay High Court on November 2018

 
&nbsp;

The Centre on Friday sought one more week to decide on the implementation of Supreme Court Collegium`s recommendation to appoint Bombay High Court`s Justice Akil Kureshi as Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh High Court.

The Centre on Friday sought one more week to decide on the implementation of Supreme Court Collegium`s recommendation to appoint Bombay High Court`s Justice Akil Kureshi as Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh High Court. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted before a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi that the issue will be considered and Centre needs one week time. "The decision of the Centre will be informed to the Collegium," Tushar Mehta told the bench. The Bench indicated that the date will be fixed on the administrative side for a hearing next week. Earlier this month, the Supreme Court had asked the Centre to take a decision by August 14 on the recommendation of the Court`s Collegium to appoint Akil Kureshi as the Chief Justice of the Madhya Pradesh High Court. The Solicitor General had said that the matter was under consideration and sought two weeks. The plea was filed by the Gujarat High Court Advocates` Association seeking a direction to the Centre to implement the Supreme Court collegium`s recommendation to appoint Akil Kureshi as Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh High Court. The Advocates` Association said that Kureshi was appointed as a judge of Gujarat High Court in 2004 and was functioning as acting Chief Justice of High Court when he was transferred to Bombay High Court on November 2018

Centre seeks one week's time to take decision on Justice Akil Kureshi's elevation

Governor Satya Pal Malik, in a meeting held at Raj Bhavan on Monday&nbsp;evening, reviewed prevailing security and law and order in the state, in the aftermath of developments in the Parliament relating to Jammu and Kashmir.

K Vijay Kumar, KK Sharma, K Skandan, Farooq Khan-Advisors to Governor, Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir BVR Subrahmanyam were present in the meeting.

The governor's meeting took place as former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-omar-abdullah-mehbooba-mufti-detained-after-special-status-to-jammu-and-kashmir-is-revoked-240931">Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah</a>, who were put under house arrest on Sunday night, were&nbsp;detained hours after resolution on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-revoked-shah-lauds-modi-for-unwavering-commitment-towards-ensuring-indias-unity-integrity-240935">scrapping of Article 370</a> was passed in the Rajya Sabha.

Other political leaders of J&amp;K including Shah Faesal, Mohammed Yousuf Tarigami, Usman Majid have also&nbsp;been put under preventive detention.

Governor was given an assessment of the prevailing situation in the state. K Vijay Kumar, K Skandan, and Farooq Khan, who have returned from Jammu after taking stock of the essential services, briefed the governor about the adequacy of essential supplies and delivery of various public services to the people including electricity, water supply and health care services in both Jammu and Kashmir regions.

The officers also stressed on the need to ensure safety of the general public and advised the administration to give due consideration to the genuine needs of people in the current scenario.

The Chief Secretary informed the Governor that there is no dearth of essential commodities in the Valley and there is sufficient stocking of the same for over three months.

&nbsp;The Indian Army and Air Force were put on high alert on Monday with the Centre set to move over 8,000 paramiltary troops to J&amp;K in view of the changed situation.

Abrogation of article 370: Here are the reactions

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The Governor in the meeting emphasised on the need for constant alertness, preparedness and synergy among various departments and agencies to enable dealing with an emerging situation in a coordinated and effective manner.

He also reiterated the need to constantly maintain a close watch on the ground situation and underlined the importance of sustained efforts to bring peace and harmony in the society for the overall benefit of people.

Meanwhile, the Governor has appealed to the public and leaders of various social, religious and political organisations to cooperate with the government machinery in the maintenance of law and order in the state.

Governor Satya Pal Malik, in a meeting held at Raj Bhavan on Monday evening, reviewed prevailing security and law and order in the state, in the aftermath of developments in the Parliament relating to Jammu and Kashmir.

Governor Satya Pal Malik, in a meeting held at Raj Bhavan on Monday evening, reviewed prevailing security and law and order in the state, in the aftermath of developments in the Parliament relating to Jammu and Kashmir. K Vijay Kumar, KK Sharma, K Skandan, Farooq Khan-Advisors to Governor, Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir BVR Subrahmanyam were present in the meeting. The governor's meeting took place as former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah, who were put under house arrest on Sunday night, were detained hours after resolution on scrapping of Article 370 was passed in the Rajya Sabha. Other political leaders of J&K including Shah Faesal, Mohammed Yousuf Tarigami, Usman Majid have also been put under preventive detention. Governor was given an assessment of the prevailing situation in the state. K Vijay Kumar, K Skandan, and Farooq Khan, who have returned from Jammu after taking stock of the essential services, briefed the governor about the adequacy of essential supplies and delivery of various public services to the people including electricity, water supply and health care services in both Jammu and Kashmir regions. The officers also stressed on the need to ensure safety of the general public and advised the administration to give due consideration to the genuine needs of people in the current scenario. The Chief Secretary informed the Governor that there is no dearth of essential commodities in the Valley and there is sufficient stocking of the same for over three months. The Indian Army and Air Force were put on high alert on Monday with the Centre set to move over 8,000 paramiltary troops to J&K in view of the changed situation. Abrogation of article 370: Here are the reactions The Governor in the meeting emphasised on the need for constant alertness, preparedness and synergy among various departments and agencies to enable dealing with an emerging situation in a coordinated and effective manner. He also reiterated the need to constantly maintain a close watch on the ground situation and underlined the importance of sustained efforts to bring peace and harmony in the society for the overall benefit of people. Meanwhile, the Governor has appealed to the public and leaders of various social, religious and political organisations to cooperate with the government machinery in the maintenance of law and order in the state.

J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik reviews security as government deploys more paramilitary troops

PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday said that all the political parties in Jammu and Kashmir should come together to give a message to the central government that they cannot tamper with the state's special position.

"The workers of all political parties should come together so that a message can be given to the Centre that they cannot tamper with J-K's special position. Recent developments in the state have created fear among the people. It appears that something is about to happen," she told reporters.

Mehbooba said that it was "unfortunate" that the central government has not issued a clear statement over the current situation as the state is rocked by rumours and uncertainty.

Earlier in the day, Mehbooba said that it is a travesty that the Centre has not made efforts to reach out and clarify on the situation in the state.

"Yet again the valley is on edge. It's a travesty that Central government hasn't made efforts to reach out and clarify recent developments," she tweeted.

Yesterday, the state government advised Amarnath yatris and tourists to curtail their stay in the Valley "immediately", shortly after the Indian Army said Pakistani terrorists were planning to disrupt the pilgrimage.

Criticising the move, Mufti said that the advisory created chaos and confusion among the people.

The Union Home Ministry had ordered the deployment of an additional 100 companies of central paramilitary forces in the state.

One company comprises around 100 personnel. Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft were also pressed into service to induct the security troops in Valley.

Meanwhile, National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah earlier today asked the Centre to come forward and assure the people of Jammu and Kashmir that there is nothing to worry about.

He also said Governor Satya Pal Malik assured him that so far no preparation has been made for any announcement regarding rumours on Article 35A, 370, delimitation and trifurcation.&nbsp;

PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday said that all the political parties in Jammu and Kashmir should come together to give a message to the central government that they cannot tamper with the state's special position.

PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday said that all the political parties in Jammu and Kashmir should come together to give a message to the central government that they cannot tamper with the state's special position. "The workers of all political parties should come together so that a message can be given to the Centre that they cannot tamper with J-K's special position. Recent developments in the state have created fear among the people. It appears that something is about to happen," she told reporters. Mehbooba said that it was "unfortunate" that the central government has not issued a clear statement over the current situation as the state is rocked by rumours and uncertainty. Earlier in the day, Mehbooba said that it is a travesty that the Centre has not made efforts to reach out and clarify on the situation in the state. "Yet again the valley is on edge. It's a travesty that Central government hasn't made efforts to reach out and clarify recent developments," she tweeted. Yesterday, the state government advised Amarnath yatris and tourists to curtail their stay in the Valley "immediately", shortly after the Indian Army said Pakistani terrorists were planning to disrupt the pilgrimage. Criticising the move, Mufti said that the advisory created chaos and confusion among the people. The Union Home Ministry had ordered the deployment of an additional 100 companies of central paramilitary forces in the state. One company comprises around 100 personnel. Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft were also pressed into service to induct the security troops in Valley. Meanwhile, National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah earlier today asked the Centre to come forward and assure the people of Jammu and Kashmir that there is nothing to worry about. He also said Governor Satya Pal Malik assured him that so far no preparation has been made for any announcement regarding rumours on Article 35A, 370, delimitation and trifurcation.

Jammu and Kashmir parties should come together to give message to Centre over special status: Mehbooba

The Supreme Court on Friday issued notice to the Centre and several states on a plea seeking proper implementation of the court's 2018 judgement laying down guidelines to prevent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/alwar-lynching-case-victim-pehlu-khan-sons-charged-for-smuggling-cattle-231421">mob lynching</a>.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Aniruddha Bose sought reponse from the Home Ministry and states including Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Gujarat and Jammu and Kashmir while hearing a plea filed by Anti Corruption Council of India Trust (ACCIT).

ACCIT sought a direction to the states to comply with the apex court's directions in true letter and spirit as incidents of mob lynching were taking place.

In its verdict of July 17 last year, the Supreme Court had said that "horrendous acts of mobocracy" cannot be allowed to overrun the law of the land and issued a slew of guidelines to deal with mob lynching and cow vigilantism.

The court had ordered the appointment of nodal police officers in all districts, efficient patrolling in areas where there was a possibility of such incidents, and the completion of trial in these cases within six months.

The Supreme Court on Friday issued notice to the Centre and several states on a plea seeking proper implementation of the court's 2018 judgement laying down guidelines to prevent mob lynching.

The Supreme Court on Friday issued notice to the Centre and several states on a plea seeking proper implementation of the court's 2018 judgement laying down guidelines to prevent mob lynching. A division bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Aniruddha Bose sought reponse from the Home Ministry and states including Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Gujarat and Jammu and Kashmir while hearing a plea filed by Anti Corruption Council of India Trust (ACCIT). ACCIT sought a direction to the states to comply with the apex court's directions in true letter and spirit as incidents of mob lynching were taking place. In its verdict of July 17 last year, the Supreme Court had said that "horrendous acts of mobocracy" cannot be allowed to overrun the law of the land and issued a slew of guidelines to deal with mob lynching and cow vigilantism. The court had ordered the appointment of nodal police officers in all districts, efficient patrolling in areas where there was a possibility of such incidents, and the completion of trial in these cases within six months.

Supreme Court notice to Centre, states for implementation of guidelines to prevent mob lynching

Pope Francis expressed his sorrow for the migrants killed by air strikes against a detention centre in Libya that killed at least 53 people, including six children.

Pope Francis Prays For Victims In Libya

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Sunday dispatched a central team to review the Japanese Encephalitis (JE) situation in view of recently reported cases in Assam and also directed the Ministry to extend all support and assistance to the state government.

"I am closely monitoring the situation. The Health Ministry is coordinating with the Assam government for the prevention and management of JE to ensure that the cases don`t rise in the state," the Union Minister said in a statement.

He also said the Union Health Ministry is providing all logistical and technical support to the Assam government in terms of surveillance and diagnostic kits to strengthen their efforts in dealing with the JE in the state.

Noting that community participation and empowerment are the most crucial to the prevention of JE, Dr Vardhan has urged all the stakeholders to start rigorous awareness campaigns regarding the preventive steps to be taken by the communities.

The Central team, likely to reach Assam this evening, is headed by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Additional Secretary Sanjeeva Kumar and is accompanied by the senior officers from the National Vector Borne Diseases Control Programme in New Delhi.

All 27 districts of Assam have been covered under the JE vaccination campaign (for 1-15 years) followed by the routine immunization as part of the Immunization Programme. Ten high endemic districts of Assam -&nbsp;Shivsagar Barpeta, Nagaon, Sonitpur, Darrang, Udalguri, Bongaigaon, Cachar, Morigaon, and Nalbari - have been included under the multipronged strategy for the prevention and control of JE.

These districts have also been covered under adult JE vaccination campaign.

Out of 10 high burdened districts, funds have been provided for the establishment of seven Pediatric ICUs (PICUs). Of these, four PICUs have been made functional.

For the diagnosis of the disease, till date 28 Sentinel Surveillance Hospitals have been identified and the Union Health Ministry is providing diagnostic kits to Assam free of cost, said the statement.

For rehabilitation of JE disabled patients, the Centre has provided funds for the strengthening of two Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) departments at Dibrugarh Medical College and Guwahati Medical College.JE is vector-borne encephalitis transmitted by Culex groups of mosquitoes.

These mosquitoes breed mainly in rice fields and large water bodies rich in aquatic vegetations. Migratory birds along with pigs in the community play an important role in the transmission of JE from one area to other areas.&nbsp;

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Sunday dispatched a central team to review the Japanese Encephalitis (JE) situation in view of recently reported cases in Assam and also directed the Ministry to extend all support and assistance to the state government.

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Sunday dispatched a central team to review the Japanese Encephalitis (JE) situation in view of recently reported cases in Assam and also directed the Ministry to extend all support and assistance to the state government. "I am closely monitoring the situation. The Health Ministry is coordinating with the Assam government for the prevention and management of JE to ensure that the cases don`t rise in the state," the Union Minister said in a statement. He also said the Union Health Ministry is providing all logistical and technical support to the Assam government in terms of surveillance and diagnostic kits to strengthen their efforts in dealing with the JE in the state. Noting that community participation and empowerment are the most crucial to the prevention of JE, Dr Vardhan has urged all the stakeholders to start rigorous awareness campaigns regarding the preventive steps to be taken by the communities. The Central team, likely to reach Assam this evening, is headed by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Additional Secretary Sanjeeva Kumar and is accompanied by the senior officers from the National Vector Borne Diseases Control Programme in New Delhi. All 27 districts of Assam have been covered under the JE vaccination campaign (for 1-15 years) followed by the routine immunization as part of the Immunization Programme. Ten high endemic districts of Assam - Shivsagar Barpeta, Nagaon, Sonitpur, Darrang, Udalguri, Bongaigaon, Cachar, Morigaon, and Nalbari - have been included under the multipronged strategy for the prevention and control of JE. These districts have also been covered under adult JE vaccination campaign. Out of 10 high burdened districts, funds have been provided for the establishment of seven Pediatric ICUs (PICUs). Of these, four PICUs have been made functional. For the diagnosis of the disease, till date 28 Sentinel Surveillance Hospitals have been identified and the Union Health Ministry is providing diagnostic kits to Assam free of cost, said the statement. For rehabilitation of JE disabled patients, the Centre has provided funds for the strengthening of two Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) departments at Dibrugarh Medical College and Guwahati Medical College.JE is vector-borne encephalitis transmitted by Culex groups of mosquitoes. These mosquitoes breed mainly in rice fields and large water bodies rich in aquatic vegetations. Migratory birds along with pigs in the community play an important role in the transmission of JE from one area to other areas.

Centre dispatches team to review Japanese encephalitis situation in Assam

Delhi chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) president Arvind Kejriwal met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Parliament on Friday and assured full cooperation of his government.

"I have congratulated him and wished him luck for the next five years. I told him that it is important for Centre and state government to work together for the development of Delhi. I have assured him that Delhi government will work with them and hopes that we will get support from Centre too," Kejriwal said.

The Delhi chief minister briefly discussed Ayushman Bharat scheme with Modi. "Ayushman Bharat was briefly discussed. Informed Hon’ble PM that Delhi Govt’s Delhi Health scheme is much bigger and wider in scope. However, assured him to examine if Ayushman Bharat scheme cud also be integrated into our scheme," he tweeted after the meeting.

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Ayushman Bharat was briefly discussed. Informed Hon’ble PM that Delhi Govt’s Delhi Health scheme is much bigger and wider in scope. However, assured him to examine if Ayushman Bharat scheme cud also be integrated into our scheme. <a href="https://t.co/qUVvPrnZc6">https://t.co/qUVvPrnZc6</a>
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1141961167700578304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Water harvesting-related issues were also discussed between the two. "Del govt plans to store yamuna water during rainy season. One season’s water sufficient to meet one year’s Delhi’s water needs. Requested Centre’s support," Kejriwal said in another tweet. 
&nbsp;

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Met Sh <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji n congratulated him for LS victory 
 
1. Del govt plans to store yamuna water during rainy season. One season’s water sufficient to meet one year’s Delhi’s water needs. Requested Centre’s support 
 
2. Invited PM to visit a Mohalla clinic n Del govt school
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1141958983286050816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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AAP chief also invited the Prime Minister to visit Mohalla clinic and a Delhi government school.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Delhi chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) president Arvind Kejriwal met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Parliament on Friday and assured full cooperation of his government.

Delhi chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) president Arvind Kejriwal met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Parliament on Friday and assured full cooperation of his government. "I have congratulated him and wished him luck for the next five years. I told him that it is important for Centre and state government to work together for the development of Delhi. I have assured him that Delhi government will work with them and hopes that we will get support from Centre too," Kejriwal said. The Delhi chief minister briefly discussed Ayushman Bharat scheme with Modi. "Ayushman Bharat was briefly discussed. Informed Hon’ble PM that Delhi Govt’s Delhi Health scheme is much bigger and wider in scope. However, assured him to examine if Ayushman Bharat scheme cud also be integrated into our scheme," he tweeted after the meeting. Ayushman Bharat was briefly discussed. Informed Hon’ble PM that Delhi Govt’s Delhi Health scheme is much bigger and wider in scope. However, assured him to examine if Ayushman Bharat scheme cud also be integrated into our scheme. https://t.co/qUVvPrnZc6 — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) June 21, 2019 × Water harvesting-related issues were also discussed between the two. "Del govt plans to store yamuna water during rainy season. One season’s water sufficient to meet one year’s Delhi’s water needs. Requested Centre’s support," Kejriwal said in another tweet. Met Sh @narendramodi ji n congratulated him for LS victory 1. Del govt plans to store yamuna water during rainy season. One season’s water sufficient to meet one year’s Delhi’s water needs. Requested Centre’s support 2. Invited PM to visit a Mohalla clinic n Del govt school — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) June 21, 2019 × AAP chief also invited the Prime Minister to visit Mohalla clinic and a Delhi government school. (With inputs from agencies)

Arvind Kejriwal meets PM Narendra Modi, says Delhi government and Centre must work together

The Central government has filed fresh affidavits in the Rafale review case in the Supreme Court stating that the apex court's judgement, which was pronounced last year on December 14, upholding 36 Rafale jets' deal was "correct," news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

The Centre, in its response, also noted that the "monitoring of progress by PMO of this Government to Government process cannot be construed as interference or parallel negotiations".&nbsp;

It added that the "unsubstantiated media reports and/or part internal file notings deliberately projected in a selective manner cannot form the basis for review".&nbsp;

The top court on Tuesday had issued a formal notice to the Central government asking it to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-asks-centre-to-reply-on-rafale-review-petition-posts-matter-for-hearing-on-may-6-214723">file its reply on the Rafale review petitions by May 4</a>. The matter will be put up for hearing on May 6.&nbsp;

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Centre files fresh affidavits in Rafale review case in SC saying- the Dec 14, 2018 judgement upholding 36 Rafale jets' deal was correct and unsubstantiated media reports and/or part internal file notings deliberately projected in a selective manner cannot form basis for review. <a href="https://t.co/oMfFYdZltG">pic.twitter.com/oMfFYdZltG</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1124546148138487808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Centre, in its letter on Monday, had said it needs time to file reply on merits on the review petitions.

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Centre in affidavit in Rafale review petition case: the then Hon’ble Raksha Mantri had recorded on file that …”it appears that PMO and French President’s office are monitoring the progress of the issues which was an outcome of the summit meeting.” 2/2 <a href="https://t.co/yKwpR9sX5d">https://t.co/yKwpR9sX5d</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1124564394736738304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The petitions seek review of the apex court's verdict that was pronounced last year in December wherein it had dismissed the pleas challenging India's deal to procure 36 Rafale fighter jets from France.

The Supreme Court had quashed the pleas. In its decision, the apex court had said that there was no occasion to "really doubt the decision-making process".

It added that there was no reason for any intervention by the court on the "sensitive issue" of purchase of 36 jets.

 
&nbsp;

The Central government has filed fresh affidavits in the Rafale review case in the Supreme Court stating that the apex court's judgement, which was pronounced last year on December 14, upholding 36 Rafale jets' deal was "correct," news agency ANI reported.

The Central government has filed fresh affidavits in the Rafale review case in the Supreme Court stating that the apex court's judgement, which was pronounced last year on December 14, upholding 36 Rafale jets' deal was "correct," news agency ANI reported. The Centre, in its response, also noted that the "monitoring of progress by PMO of this Government to Government process cannot be construed as interference or parallel negotiations". It added that the "unsubstantiated media reports and/or part internal file notings deliberately projected in a selective manner cannot form the basis for review". The top court on Tuesday had issued a formal notice to the Central government asking it to file its reply on the Rafale review petitions by May 4. The matter will be put up for hearing on May 6. Centre files fresh affidavits in Rafale review case in SC saying- the Dec 14, 2018 judgement upholding 36 Rafale jets' deal was correct and unsubstantiated media reports and/or part internal file notings deliberately projected in a selective manner cannot form basis for review. pic.twitter.com/oMfFYdZltG — ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2019 × The Centre, in its letter on Monday, had said it needs time to file reply on merits on the review petitions. Centre in affidavit in Rafale review petition case: the then Hon’ble Raksha Mantri had recorded on file that …”it appears that PMO and French President’s office are monitoring the progress of the issues which was an outcome of the summit meeting.” 2/2 https://t.co/yKwpR9sX5d — ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2019 × The petitions seek review of the apex court's verdict that was pronounced last year in December wherein it had dismissed the pleas challenging India's deal to procure 36 Rafale fighter jets from France. The Supreme Court had quashed the pleas. In its decision, the apex court had said that there was no occasion to "really doubt the decision-making process". It added that there was no reason for any intervention by the court on the "sensitive issue" of purchase of 36 jets.

'Monitoring by PMO cannot be construed as interference,' says Centre in fresh affidavits in Rafale review case

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