After the verdict over the 2018 murder of journalist <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jamal-khashoggi-murder-saudi-arabia-court-hands-death-penalty-to-five-24-years-imprisonment-to-three-269717">Jamal Khashoggi</a> was announced, Turkey criticised it for falling short of being able to decrypt the killing and motive of the crime. For Turkey, the Saudi court failed to deliver justice.

The decision announced by the Saudi court "is far from meeting the expectations of both our country and the international community to shed light on the murder with all its dimensions and deliver justice," the foreign ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

A Saudi Arabian court&nbsp;on Monday sentenced five people to death for the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi Kingdom’s consulate in Istanbul on October 2, 2018.

The criminal court of Riyadh has sentenced five people to death for committing and directly participating in the murder of Jamal Khashoggi.

The court sentenced 24 years of imprisonment to three individuals for their role in covering up the crime and violating the law.

And charges against three individuals have been dismissed.

Khashoggi, a Washington Post contributor and US resident, was killed in October 2018 by Saudi agents while at Saudi Arabia's consulate in Istanbul to obtain paperwork ahead of his wedding to Hatice Cengiz.

For decades, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggis-killers-will-pay-the-price-says-turkish-president-228875">Khashoggi was close to the Saudi royal family</a> and also served as an adviser to the government.

(With inputs from agencies)

After the verdict over the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi was announced, Turkey criticised it for falling short of being able to decrypt the killing and motive of the crime.

After the verdict over the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi was announced, Turkey criticised it for falling short of being able to decrypt the killing and motive of the crime. For Turkey, the Saudi court failed to deliver justice. The decision announced by the Saudi court "is far from meeting the expectations of both our country and the international community to shed light on the murder with all its dimensions and deliver justice," the foreign ministry said in a statement. A Saudi Arabian court on Monday sentenced five people to death for the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi Kingdom’s consulate in Istanbul on October 2, 2018. The criminal court of Riyadh has sentenced five people to death for committing and directly participating in the murder of Jamal Khashoggi. The court sentenced 24 years of imprisonment to three individuals for their role in covering up the crime and violating the law. And charges against three individuals have been dismissed. Khashoggi, a Washington Post contributor and US resident, was killed in October 2018 by Saudi agents while at Saudi Arabia's consulate in Istanbul to obtain paperwork ahead of his wedding to Hatice Cengiz. For decades, Khashoggi was close to the Saudi royal family and also served as an adviser to the government. (With inputs from agencies)

Khashoggi verdict 'far from justice': Turkey

The European Union has accused the ruling<a href="Poland's ruling nationalists signalled on Thursday they plan to water down legislation allowing for judges to be disciplined for questioning judicial reforms, in an apparent attempt to ease a dispute between Brussels and Warsaw over democratic standards. The European Union has accused the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party of politicising the judiciary ever since it came to power in 2015. PiS argues that the reforms are necessary to make Poland's courts more efficient. The nationalist government has introduced draft legislation providing for the disciplining of judges who have questioned the independence of peers nominated by a panel set up under new rules drawn up by the PiS-dominated parliament. The EU's top court said last month it was up to Poland's Supreme Court to decide whether the panel was independent, and the Supreme Court has ruled that in its view the panel was neither impartial nor independent. One of PiS's smaller partners, Porozumienie, which depicts itself as a pro-business party, has since come under opposition pressure to partially block the reform. Porozumienie recently impeded another reform planned by the PiS. On Thursday state news agency PAP quoted Porozumienie head Jaroslaw Gowin as saying that ruling politicians would adopt amendments to the bill aimed at removing its two most criticized parts. These are disciplinary measures against judges questioning legitimacy of their peers appointed by the new panel, and a part of the bill that forced judges to reveal the names of social media accounts they use under pseudonyms. &quot;There's an agreement ... amendments (to the proposed bill) will be adopted,&quot; Gowin was quoted as saying by PAP. On Wednesday thousands of people poured onto the streets to protest against what they saw as an attempt by PiS to further browbeat judges. On Thursday the lower house of parliament started the debate on the judicial reforms. PiS, which won a second term in October, says it will continue the reforms to try to rid the judiciary of communist leftovers, despi"> Law and Justice (PiS) party</a> of politicising the judiciary ever since it came to power in 2015. PiS argues that the reforms are necessary to make Poland's courts more efficient.

The nationalist government has introduced draft legislation providing for the disciplining of judges who have questioned the independence of peers nominated by a panel set up under new rules drawn up by the PiS-dominated parliament.

The EU's top court said last month it was up to Poland's Supreme Court to decide whether the panel was independent, and the Supreme Court has ruled that in its view the panel was neither impartial nor independent.

One of PiS's smaller partners, Porozumienie, which depicts itself as a pro-business party, has since come under opposition pressure to partially block the reform. Porozumienie recently impeded another reform planned by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/polands-main-opposition-picks-moderate-veteran-for-presidential-vote-268295">PiS</a>.

On Thursday state news agency PAP quoted Porozumienie head, Jaroslaw Gowin, as saying that ruling politicians would adopt amendments to the bill aimed at removing its two most criticized parts.

These are disciplinary measures against judges questioning the legitimacy of their peers appointed by the new panel, and a part of the bill that forced judges to reveal the names of social media accounts they use under pseudonyms.

"There's an agreement ... amendments (to the proposed bill) will be adopted," Gowin was quoted as saying by PAP.

On Wednesday thousands of people poured onto the streets to protest against what they saw as an attempt by PiS to further browbeat judges. On Thursday the lower house of parliament started the debate on the judicial reforms.

PiS, which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/polands-ruling-nationalists-win-majority-in-parliament-255794">won a second term</a> in October, says it will continue the reforms to try to rid the judiciary of communist leftovers, despite EU criticism over adherence to the rule of law and threats to cut off vital EU funding.

During the parliamentary debate, opposition parties accused the PiS of using the new legislation as a tool to intimidate judges so they rule in line with the party's expectations.

"The real reason is your panic attempt to escape accountability. You know that the time of your defeat is coming and you will be held accountable at Polish courts for all your scandals," opposition MP Borys Budka told deputies.

The European Union has accused the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party of politicising the judiciary ever since it came to power in 2015. PiS argues that the reforms are necessary to make Poland's courts more efficient.

The European Union has accused the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party of politicising the judiciary ever since it came to power in 2015. PiS argues that the reforms are necessary to make Poland's courts more efficient. The nationalist government has introduced draft legislation providing for the disciplining of judges who have questioned the independence of peers nominated by a panel set up under new rules drawn up by the PiS-dominated parliament. The EU's top court said last month it was up to Poland's Supreme Court to decide whether the panel was independent, and the Supreme Court has ruled that in its view the panel was neither impartial nor independent. One of PiS's smaller partners, Porozumienie, which depicts itself as a pro-business party, has since come under opposition pressure to partially block the reform. Porozumienie recently impeded another reform planned by the PiS. On Thursday state news agency PAP quoted Porozumienie head, Jaroslaw Gowin, as saying that ruling politicians would adopt amendments to the bill aimed at removing its two most criticized parts. These are disciplinary measures against judges questioning the legitimacy of their peers appointed by the new panel, and a part of the bill that forced judges to reveal the names of social media accounts they use under pseudonyms. "There's an agreement ... amendments (to the proposed bill) will be adopted," Gowin was quoted as saying by PAP. On Wednesday thousands of people poured onto the streets to protest against what they saw as an attempt by PiS to further browbeat judges. On Thursday the lower house of parliament started the debate on the judicial reforms. PiS, which won a second term in October, says it will continue the reforms to try to rid the judiciary of communist leftovers, despite EU criticism over adherence to the rule of law and threats to cut off vital EU funding. During the parliamentary debate, opposition parties accused the PiS of using the new legislation as a tool to intimidate judges so they rule in line with the party's expectations. "The real reason is your panic attempt to escape accountability. You know that the time of your defeat is coming and you will be held accountable at Polish courts for all your scandals," opposition MP Borys Budka told deputies.

Poland's ruling nationalists signal they could weaken court reforms

A Delhi court on Tuesday decided to reserve its judgment on the Unnao rape case in which a former Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Kuldeep Singh Sengar and Shashi Singh are the prime accused.&nbsp;

The judgment is expected to be declared by District Judge Dharmesh Sharma on December 16.

According to the charge sheet filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on October 3, the victim was kidnapped and raped for nine days at different locations by three people in 2017. The victim was legally a minor at the time.

Earlier, the court had passed an order on an FIR relating to the Arms Act and about the custodial death of the victim's father. The two were clubbed together owing to connections in terms of witnesses and incidents.

The court added that the accused had detained the victim's father to ensure the complaint isn't pursued.&nbsp;

Earlier in July, the victim and her lawyer had sustained serious injuries in a truck collision, which killed her aunts.

Allegedly, the victim had approached Sengar for a job at his residence on June 4, 2017, when she was raped.

(With inputs from ANI)

A Delhi court on Tuesday decided to reserve its judgment on the Unnao rape case in which a former Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Kuldeep Singh Sengar and Shashi Singh are the prime accused.

A Delhi court on Tuesday decided to reserve its judgment on the Unnao rape case in which a former Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Kuldeep Singh Sengar and Shashi Singh are the prime accused. The judgment is expected to be declared by District Judge Dharmesh Sharma on December 16. According to the charge sheet filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on October 3, the victim was kidnapped and raped for nine days at different locations by three people in 2017. The victim was legally a minor at the time. Earlier, the court had passed an order on an FIR relating to the Arms Act and about the custodial death of the victim's father. The two were clubbed together owing to connections in terms of witnesses and incidents. The court added that the accused had detained the victim's father to ensure the complaint isn't pursued. Earlier in July, the victim and her lawyer had sustained serious injuries in a truck collision, which killed her aunts. Allegedly, the victim had approached Sengar for a job at his residence on June 4, 2017, when she was raped. (With inputs from ANI)

Delhi court reserves judgment in Unnao rape case

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-suu-kyi-looks-on-gambia-asks-un-judges-to-stop-genocide-in-myanmar-267424">Aung San Suu Kyi</a>, the Nobel laureate from Myanmar was directed to ''stop the genocide'' of Rohingya Muslims at United Nations' top court today.

Kyi, who was for long hailed as a rights icon has suffered setbacks due to her approach in dealing with the Rohingya crisis.

West African state of Gambia has accused <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-suu-kyi-arrives-at-un-court-for-genocide-hearings-267407">Myanmar</a> of breaching the 1948 Genocide Convention.

"This is very much a dispute between Gambia and Myanmar," Gambian Justice Minister Abubacarr Tambadou told the judges of the court, which was set up in 1946 to resolve disputes between UN member states.

Suu Kyi is representing Myanmar at the International Court of Justice.

Around 740,000 Rohingya fled to neighbouring Bangladesh after a bloody crackdown by the Myanmar military in 2017 that UN investigators have already described as genocide. 
 
"All that The Gambia asks is that you tell Myanmar to stop these senseless killings, to stop these acts of barbarity that continue to shock our collective conscience, to stop this genocide of its own people", Tambadou added.

Tambadou, a former prosecutor at the tribunal into Rwanda's 1994 genocide, said Myanmar's military operation involved "mass murder, mass rape and mass torture, children being burned alive in their homes and places of worship."

The Gambia is seeking emergency measures to prevent further harm to the Rohingya, pending a wider case at the ICJ which could take years. 
 
Suu Kyi listened to accounts by The Gambia's lawyers of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-suu-kyi-arrives-at-un-court-for-genocide-hearings-267407">Rohingya victims</a>, including a mother whose one-year-old son was beaten to death and an eight-month-pregnant woman who was stamped on and then repeatedly raped.

A group of some 50 pro-Rohingya protesters gathered outside the gates of the ICJ for the hearing, carrying banners saying: 'Say yes to Rohingya, justice delayed is justice denied" and "Stop Burma military attack Rohingya."

Thousands of people have also turned out in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/thousands-in-myanmar-rally-behind-suu-kyi-ahead-of-hague-court-date-266956">Suu Kyi's support in Myanmar</a> in recent weeks since she announced that she would personally lead the southeast Asian nation's case at the court.

Suu Kyi is set to speak in Myanmar's defence on Wednesday. She is expected to argue that Myanmar was conducting legitimate operations against Rohingya militants and that the ICJ has no jurisdiction in the case. 
&nbsp;

Aung San Suu Kyi, the Nobel laureate from Myanmar was directed to ''stop the genocide'' of Rohingya Muslims at United Nations' top court today. Kyi, who was for long hailed as a rights icon has suffered setbacks due to her approach in dealing with the Rohingya crisis.

Aung San Suu Kyi, the Nobel laureate from Myanmar was directed to ''stop the genocide'' of Rohingya Muslims at United Nations' top court today. Kyi, who was for long hailed as a rights icon has suffered setbacks due to her approach in dealing with the Rohingya crisis. West African state of Gambia has accused Myanmar of breaching the 1948 Genocide Convention. "This is very much a dispute between Gambia and Myanmar," Gambian Justice Minister Abubacarr Tambadou told the judges of the court, which was set up in 1946 to resolve disputes between UN member states. Suu Kyi is representing Myanmar at the International Court of Justice. Around 740,000 Rohingya fled to neighbouring Bangladesh after a bloody crackdown by the Myanmar military in 2017 that UN investigators have already described as genocide. "All that The Gambia asks is that you tell Myanmar to stop these senseless killings, to stop these acts of barbarity that continue to shock our collective conscience, to stop this genocide of its own people", Tambadou added. Tambadou, a former prosecutor at the tribunal into Rwanda's 1994 genocide, said Myanmar's military operation involved "mass murder, mass rape and mass torture, children being burned alive in their homes and places of worship." The Gambia is seeking emergency measures to prevent further harm to the Rohingya, pending a wider case at the ICJ which could take years. Suu Kyi listened to accounts by The Gambia's lawyers of Rohingya victims, including a mother whose one-year-old son was beaten to death and an eight-month-pregnant woman who was stamped on and then repeatedly raped. A group of some 50 pro-Rohingya protesters gathered outside the gates of the ICJ for the hearing, carrying banners saying: 'Say yes to Rohingya, justice delayed is justice denied" and "Stop Burma military attack Rohingya." Thousands of people have also turned out in Suu Kyi's support in Myanmar in recent weeks since she announced that she would personally lead the southeast Asian nation's case at the court. Suu Kyi is set to speak in Myanmar's defence on Wednesday. She is expected to argue that Myanmar was conducting legitimate operations against Rohingya militants and that the ICJ has no jurisdiction in the case.

Myanmar's Suu Kyi told to 'stop the genocide' in United Nations court over Rohingya crisis

Thousands rallied in support of Aung San Suu Kyi in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/the-lady-and-the-hague-myanmar-leader-suu-kyi-courts-home-audience-266663">Myanmar</a> Saturday, on the eve of her departure for the UN's top court to defend Myanmar against charges of genocide against Rohingya Muslims.&nbsp;

The raucous rally in the capital Naypyidaw came as China's foreign minister arrived for a visit at Suu Kyi's invitation.

Analysts say Beijing's permanent seat on the UN Security Council,&nbsp;and its veto vote,&nbsp;makes it a valuable ally as Myanmar faces intensifying scrutiny over its treatment of the Rohingya.&nbsp;

Once-lauded democracy champion Suu Kyi's shock decision to face the International Court of Justice (ICJ) next week to defend Myanmar against charges it committed genocide against the Muslim minority risks further damaging her already tattered overseas reputation.&nbsp;

But domestically "The Lady" remains revered, and the resolve of her supporters has only hardened in the lead-up to the ICJ hearing scheduled for December 10-12.&nbsp;

"We are proud of her taking accountability... by going to The Hague to protect the nation's image," shouted prominent writer Htin Lin Oo into a microphone in front of a banner emblazoned with the words "We stand with our leader".&nbsp;

"Our blood shall come together and unite us when it is important," he shouted to a cheering crowd, who hoisted colourful artwork of Suu Kyi in the air.&nbsp;

The ICJ lawsuit was brought by Gambia, a tiny, mainly Muslim West African state that alleges Myanmar breached the UN's Genocide Convention with its bloody 2017 crackdown on the Rohingya.&nbsp;

Some 740,000 Rohingya fled into neighbouring Bangladesh, bringing with them accounts of widespread murder, rape and arson,&nbsp;violence that UN investigators have branded as genocide.

But the Rohingya garner little sympathy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-cabinet-approves-india-myanmar-agreement-to-prevent-human-trafficking-264858">within Myanmar</a>, with many believing that they are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Myanmar insists abuse allegations are under investigation by its own committees,&nbsp;panels which rights groups say have whitewashed the atrocities.

The military says the operations were justified to flush out Rohingya militants.&nbsp;

Win Swe, a Naypyidaw resident at the rally who was sporting a T-shirt with Suu Kyi's face on it, told AFP he will support his leader in "whatever she does".&nbsp;

"They aren't just accusing one person in Myanmar, they are accusing the whole country," he said.&nbsp;

Thousands rallied in support of Aung San Suu Kyi in Myanmar Saturday, on the eve of her departure for the UN's top court to defend Myanmar against charges of genocide against Rohingya Muslims.

Thousands rallied in support of Aung San Suu Kyi in Myanmar Saturday, on the eve of her departure for the UN's top court to defend Myanmar against charges of genocide against Rohingya Muslims. The raucous rally in the capital Naypyidaw came as China's foreign minister arrived for a visit at Suu Kyi's invitation. Analysts say Beijing's permanent seat on the UN Security Council, and its veto vote, makes it a valuable ally as Myanmar faces intensifying scrutiny over its treatment of the Rohingya. Once-lauded democracy champion Suu Kyi's shock decision to face the International Court of Justice (ICJ) next week to defend Myanmar against charges it committed genocide against the Muslim minority risks further damaging her already tattered overseas reputation. But domestically "The Lady" remains revered, and the resolve of her supporters has only hardened in the lead-up to the ICJ hearing scheduled for December 10-12. "We are proud of her taking accountability... by going to The Hague to protect the nation's image," shouted prominent writer Htin Lin Oo into a microphone in front of a banner emblazoned with the words "We stand with our leader". "Our blood shall come together and unite us when it is important," he shouted to a cheering crowd, who hoisted colourful artwork of Suu Kyi in the air. The ICJ lawsuit was brought by Gambia, a tiny, mainly Muslim West African state that alleges Myanmar breached the UN's Genocide Convention with its bloody 2017 crackdown on the Rohingya. Some 740,000 Rohingya fled into neighbouring Bangladesh, bringing with them accounts of widespread murder, rape and arson, violence that UN investigators have branded as genocide. But the Rohingya garner little sympathy within Myanmar, with many believing that they are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. Myanmar insists abuse allegations are under investigation by its own committees, panels which rights groups say have whitewashed the atrocities. The military says the operations were justified to flush out Rohingya militants. Win Swe, a Naypyidaw resident at the rally who was sporting a T-shirt with Suu Kyi's face on it, told AFP he will support his leader in "whatever she does". "They aren't just accusing one person in Myanmar, they are accusing the whole country," he said.

Thousands in Myanmar rally behind Suu Kyi ahead of Hague court date

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-high-court-adjourns-hearing-on-plea-seeking-linkage-of-aadhaar-to-properties-263426">Delhi High Court</a> has placed a restriction on the sale of assets belonging to Anil Ambani-led Reliance Capital which is reeling under mounting debt. 
 
"The court has passed an order placing restrictions on any sale, disposal or creation of any encumbrance on any assets of the company, which inter-alia include the company's 4.28 per cent shareholding in Reliance Nippon Life Asset Management Ltd, till December 16," Reliance Capital informed stock exchanges in regulatory filings. 
 
The formal order of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-delhi-high-court-rejects-p-chidambarams-bail-plea-262420">high court</a> is awaited. "The company will take all appropriate steps in the matter as legally advised, including to file an appeal against the said order to protect the interests of its lenders and other stakeholders," it said late on Wednesday. 
 
In late September, Ambani said the company suffered great collateral damage over the last six months due to a combination of factors, including the crisis in financial services sector, irrational action by auditors and rating agencies, and now slowdown of the Indian economy. 
 
As a part of the transformation process, Reliance Capital will no more be in any of the lending businesses. 
 
The company had repaid over Rs 35,000 crore in debt over the past 15 months. It is close to repaying another Rs 15,000 crore by March 2020 despite zero funding from any bank, NBFC or financial institution, Reliance Capital says.

Delhi High Court has placed a restriction on the sale of assets belonging to Anil Ambani-led Reliance Capital which is reeling under mounting debt. "The court has passed an order placing restrictions on any sale, disposal or creation of any encumbrance on any assets of the company, which inter-alia include the company's 4.

Delhi High Court has placed a restriction on the sale of assets belonging to Anil Ambani-led Reliance Capital which is reeling under mounting debt. "The court has passed an order placing restrictions on any sale, disposal or creation of any encumbrance on any assets of the company, which inter-alia include the company's 4.28 per cent shareholding in Reliance Nippon Life Asset Management Ltd, till December 16," Reliance Capital informed stock exchanges in regulatory filings. The formal order of the high court is awaited. "The company will take all appropriate steps in the matter as legally advised, including to file an appeal against the said order to protect the interests of its lenders and other stakeholders," it said late on Wednesday. In late September, Ambani said the company suffered great collateral damage over the last six months due to a combination of factors, including the crisis in financial services sector, irrational action by auditors and rating agencies, and now slowdown of the Indian economy. As a part of the transformation process, Reliance Capital will no more be in any of the lending businesses. The company had repaid over Rs 35,000 crore in debt over the past 15 months. It is close to repaying another Rs 15,000 crore by March 2020 despite zero funding from any bank, NBFC or financial institution, Reliance Capital says.

Delhi High Courts halts asset sale of Reliance Capital

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/saudi-arabia-kick-starts-ipo-of-worlds-largest-oil-company-259638">Saudi Arabian</a> court has convicted 38 people of terrorism-related crimes, state-run Al Ekhbariya television reported on Tuesday.

The TV channel said they were charged with financing terrorism and with takfir,&nbsp;the Islamist militant practice of labelling followers of other schools of Islam unbelievers. It said one of them "set up a terrorist organisation in prison".

Ekhbariya did not provide the nationalities or names of those convicted, details about when they were arrested or put on trial, nor what sentences were issued by the specialist criminal court in Riyadh, which was set up to try terrorism cases.

Riyadh has come under mounting international scrutiny over its human rights record since the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in October 2018 and the detention of women's rights activists who are still on trial.

In April, the Sunni Muslim-ruled kingdom beheaded 37 men for terrorism crimes. The U.N. human rights chief said most of them were Shi'ites who may not have had fair trials and at least three were minors when sentenced.

In 2017, Saudi Arabia launched a crackdown on dissent, arresting scores of clerics, intellectuals and activists. Some of them have been put on trial for terrorism-related charges.

The kingdom is an absolute monarchy where public protests and political parties are banned.

The Gulf Arab state faced a militant insurgency from 2003 to 2006 in which al Qaeda members staged attacks on residential compounds and government facilities.

The kingdom responded by arresting thousands of suspected militants and launching a media campaign to discredit their ideology.

A Saudi Arabian court has convicted 38 people of terrorism-related crimes, state-run Al Ekhbariya television reported on Tuesday. The TV channel said they were charged with financing terrorism and with takfir, the Islamist militant practice of labelling followers of other schools of Islam unbelievers.

A Saudi Arabian court has convicted 38 people of terrorism-related crimes, state-run Al Ekhbariya television reported on Tuesday. The TV channel said they were charged with financing terrorism and with takfir, the Islamist militant practice of labelling followers of other schools of Islam unbelievers. It said one of them "set up a terrorist organisation in prison". Ekhbariya did not provide the nationalities or names of those convicted, details about when they were arrested or put on trial, nor what sentences were issued by the specialist criminal court in Riyadh, which was set up to try terrorism cases. Riyadh has come under mounting international scrutiny over its human rights record since the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in October 2018 and the detention of women's rights activists who are still on trial. In April, the Sunni Muslim-ruled kingdom beheaded 37 men for terrorism crimes. The U.N. human rights chief said most of them were Shi'ites who may not have had fair trials and at least three were minors when sentenced. In 2017, Saudi Arabia launched a crackdown on dissent, arresting scores of clerics, intellectuals and activists. Some of them have been put on trial for terrorism-related charges. The kingdom is an absolute monarchy where public protests and political parties are banned. The Gulf Arab state faced a militant insurgency from 2003 to 2006 in which al Qaeda members staged attacks on residential compounds and government facilities. The kingdom responded by arresting thousands of suspected militants and launching a media campaign to discredit their ideology.

Saudi court convicts 38 people on terrorism-related charges

In Essex lorry death case suspect to be produced in the court today. Watch this video to know more.

In Essex lorry death case suspect to be produced in the court today

PMLN Vice president seen crying in court. To know more watch the video

Maryam Nawaz Breaks down in Court

South Africa's embattled former president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africas-zuma-due-back-at-corruption-inquiry-after-adjournment-237053">Jacob Zuma is expected in court</a> on corruption charges on Tuesday, in what would be the first time he faces trial for graft despite multiple accusations.

Zuma stands accused of taking kickbacks before he became president from a&nbsp;$3.4-billion&nbsp;purchase of fighter jets, patrol boats and military equipment manufactured by five European firms, including French defence company Thales.&nbsp;

The ruling African National Congress (ANC) party forced him to resign as president last year after a nine-year reign marred by corruption allegations and diminishing popularity.

After several attempts to dodge the trial, he will appear before a High Court in the southern-eastern city of Pietermaritzburg on Tuesday for the opening of the case in which he allegedly profited $270,000.&nbsp;

However, his appearance could be brief -- a court official has predicted that at the start of the process he would likely appeal last week's ruling that he should stand trial.

That would potentially drag out a case that is already more than 20 years old.

Zuma is expected to appear alongside representatives of Thales, which is accused of paying the bribes. Both Zuma and Thales deny the charges.

There is also doubt over whether the court will be able to start proceedings straight away.

"I just don't see how the trial is going to start tomorrow. It takes a whole year to prepare for a trial of this magnitude," Johannesburg-based lawyer Tyrone Maseko told AFP.

"They are not ready for a trial," said Maseko, adding that Zuma faces many charges and that a final indictment needs to be defined.

Zuma faces 16 charges of fraud, graft and racketeering related to the 1990s arms deal struck when he was deputy president to the country's second black president Thabo Mbeki.

His former financial adviser Schabir Shaik, who allegedly facilitated Thales's payments, was in 2005 found guilty of fraud and corruption and was sentenced to 15 years behind bars.&nbsp;

But, shortly after Zuma became president in 2009, Shaik was released on medical parole.

Analysts have warned that if Zuma goes on trial, he will drag down with him many leaders of Nelson Mandela's ANC, which has governed the country since the end of apartheid in 1994.

'The king of corrupt people'

Zuma has also been accused of overseeing the mass looting of state assets during his nine-year presidency.

High on the list of alleged benefactors is the wealthy Indian-born Gupta business family, who were accused of unfairly obtaining lucrative government contracts and even influencing Zuma's ministerial appointments.

The country's former anti-corruption watchdog head Thuli Madonsela accused Zuma of being an integral player who opened the doors for individuals and private companies to loot state resources.

After duelling with Madonsela in the courts, Zuma was ordered to appoint a commission of inquiry into the corruption scandal -- commonly known as "state capture". It has been hearing testimonies since August last year.

Zuma appeared at the inquiry in July, putting on a defiant performance and denying all wrongdoing.

"I have been vilified, alleged to be the king of corrupt people," he said, adding that he had been the victim of "character assassination over 20 years".

President Cyril Ramaphosa, who took over from Zuma, has vowed to tackle deep-seated corruption but faces opposition from senior powerful ANC members, many of whom remain Zuma allies.

South Africa's embattled former president Jacob Zuma is expected in court on corruption charges on Tuesday, in what would be the first time he faces trial for graft despite multiple accusations.

South Africa's embattled former president Jacob Zuma is expected in court on corruption charges on Tuesday, in what would be the first time he faces trial for graft despite multiple accusations. Zuma stands accused of taking kickbacks before he became president from a $3.4-billion purchase of fighter jets, patrol boats and military equipment manufactured by five European firms, including French defence company Thales. The ruling African National Congress (ANC) party forced him to resign as president last year after a nine-year reign marred by corruption allegations and diminishing popularity. After several attempts to dodge the trial, he will appear before a High Court in the southern-eastern city of Pietermaritzburg on Tuesday for the opening of the case in which he allegedly profited $270,000. However, his appearance could be brief -- a court official has predicted that at the start of the process he would likely appeal last week's ruling that he should stand trial. That would potentially drag out a case that is already more than 20 years old. Zuma is expected to appear alongside representatives of Thales, which is accused of paying the bribes. Both Zuma and Thales deny the charges. There is also doubt over whether the court will be able to start proceedings straight away. "I just don't see how the trial is going to start tomorrow. It takes a whole year to prepare for a trial of this magnitude," Johannesburg-based lawyer Tyrone Maseko told AFP. "They are not ready for a trial," said Maseko, adding that Zuma faces many charges and that a final indictment needs to be defined. Zuma faces 16 charges of fraud, graft and racketeering related to the 1990s arms deal struck when he was deputy president to the country's second black president Thabo Mbeki. His former financial adviser Schabir Shaik, who allegedly facilitated Thales's payments, was in 2005 found guilty of fraud and corruption and was sentenced to 15 years behind bars. But, shortly after Zuma became president in 2009, Shaik was released on medical parole. Analysts have warned that if Zuma goes on trial, he will drag down with him many leaders of Nelson Mandela's ANC, which has governed the country since the end of apartheid in 1994. 'The king of corrupt people' Zuma has also been accused of overseeing the mass looting of state assets during his nine-year presidency. High on the list of alleged benefactors is the wealthy Indian-born Gupta business family, who were accused of unfairly obtaining lucrative government contracts and even influencing Zuma's ministerial appointments. The country's former anti-corruption watchdog head Thuli Madonsela accused Zuma of being an integral player who opened the doors for individuals and private companies to loot state resources. After duelling with Madonsela in the courts, Zuma was ordered to appoint a commission of inquiry into the corruption scandal -- commonly known as "state capture". It has been hearing testimonies since August last year. Zuma appeared at the inquiry in July, putting on a defiant performance and denying all wrongdoing. "I have been vilified, alleged to be the king of corrupt people," he said, adding that he had been the victim of "character assassination over 20 years". President Cyril Ramaphosa, who took over from Zuma, has vowed to tackle deep-seated corruption but faces opposition from senior powerful ANC members, many of whom remain Zuma allies.

Former South African president Jacob Zuma faces court on corruption charges

A Delhi court on Thursday allowed home-cooked food to be provided to senior Congress leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-chidambaram-moves-application-seeking-home-cooked-food-in-tihar-jail-253058">P Chidambaram</a> in Tihar jail once in a day.

The court, however, clarified that this will not be treated as a precedent for other accused lodged in jails.

Citing health reasons, the leader had moved an application in the court seeking the same to be provided to him.

During the course of proceedings, Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), said that they do not have any objection if the accused is given the home-cooked food.

The CBI had arrested him on August 21 following which he was sent to judicial custody in Tihar jail.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-delhi-court-dismisses-chidambarams-bail-plea-252831">court</a>&nbsp;on Thursday extended his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-delhi-court-extends-chidambarams-judicial-custody-till-october-17-253503">judicial custody till October 17</a>.

Senior advocates Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Kapil Sibal told the court that they will not argue on the CBI's application which sought the extension of their client's remand.

Chidambaram's friend, Bishop Ezra Sargunam,&nbsp;also attended the court proceedings and presented a book named "Christian and Contribution to Nation building" to him.&nbsp;

Earlier today, the former Finance Minister had moved a Special Leave Petition (SLP) before the Supreme Court against the order of the Delhi High Court that dismissed his regular bail petition in the case.

The High Court had dismissed the plea contending that he might influence the witnesses in the case.

Chidambaram is facing probe for alleged irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when he was the Union finance minister.

While <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-cbi-opposes-chidambarams-bail-plea-in-delhi-hc-citing-gravity-of-offence-250861">CBI</a>&nbsp;is probing the corruption allegations, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is looking into money laundering allegations against him in the case.

A Delhi court on Thursday allowed home-cooked food to be provided to senior Congress leader P Chidambaram in Tihar jail once in a day. The court, however, clarified that this will not be treated as a precedent for other accused lodged in jails.

A Delhi court on Thursday allowed home-cooked food to be provided to senior Congress leader P Chidambaram in Tihar jail once in a day. The court, however, clarified that this will not be treated as a precedent for other accused lodged in jails. Citing health reasons, the leader had moved an application in the court seeking the same to be provided to him. During the course of proceedings, Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), said that they do not have any objection if the accused is given the home-cooked food. The CBI had arrested him on August 21 following which he was sent to judicial custody in Tihar jail. The court on Thursday extended his judicial custody till October 17. Senior advocates Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Kapil Sibal told the court that they will not argue on the CBI's application which sought the extension of their client's remand. Chidambaram's friend, Bishop Ezra Sargunam, also attended the court proceedings and presented a book named "Christian and Contribution to Nation building" to him. Earlier today, the former Finance Minister had moved a Special Leave Petition (SLP) before the Supreme Court against the order of the Delhi High Court that dismissed his regular bail petition in the case. The High Court had dismissed the plea contending that he might influence the witnesses in the case. Chidambaram is facing probe for alleged irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when he was the Union finance minister. While CBI is probing the corruption allegations, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is looking into money laundering allegations against him in the case.

INX Media case: Delhi court allows home-cooked food to Chidambaram in Tihar jail

Our experience tells those who fled country were respectable, responsible businessmen: CBI tells court on Chidambaram''s flight risk

The CBI on Friday said former union minister P Chidambaram is at flight risk while arguing in the Delhi High Court against the Congress leader`s bail plea in the INX media case.&nbsp;

The agency said that all those who have fled the country were all respectable and responsible businessmen of the society and this is a serious case where a person knows he may be punished.&nbsp;

He is powerful, influential and economically strong enough to settle down in another country.

Senior Kapil Sibal, appearing for Chidambaram said he is not at flight risk and there is no evidence of me tampering with evidence.&nbsp;

"All the persons concerned have given their statements and all documents are in the files. Why the prosecution agency wants P Chidambaram to continue to be in jail? P Chidambaram`s is in their Custody (CBI custody and Judicial custody) since 40 days now," he said.

CBI through SG Tushar Mehta further told the Delhi High Court that Chidambaram putting out tweets (through his family members) on the merits of the INX media case is an attempt to influence the case and the investigation.&nbsp;

"There has been a tendency that influential people have been influencing proceedings through social media," he added.&nbsp;

On CBI allegations that P Chidambaram had met Indrani Mukharji, Sibal said that the Congress leader has never met Indrani Mukherjee at any stage.&nbsp;

"Peter Mukharjee also said in a confrontation that Indrani was not the part of the delegation. Indrani is in custody for the allegation of the murder of her own daughter. Her statement can`t be relied upon," he said.&nbsp;

Justice Suresh Kumar Kait who is hearing the bail plea of P Chidambaram reserved the order P Chidambaram was arrested by the CBI on 21st August in INX media case and currently in judicial custody and lodged in Tihar Jail.

Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi appearing for Chidambaram also stated, "After spending 40 days in prison, he will flee? They have to justify each day of incarceration. What is it that you cannot do outside jail but can do inside it."&nbsp;

A Delhi court on September 19 extended Chidambaram`s judicial custody till October 3 in a corruption case filed by the CBI.

Chidambaram was arrested by the CBI on August 21. At present, he is in judicial custody in Tihar Jail.

He is facing a probe by the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for alleged irregularities in granting the clearance to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007.

Earlier in the day, the Court had reserved the order on Chidambaram`s bail plea in the INX Media case.

Justice Suresh Kumar Kait reserved the order after the lawyers from both sides concluded their arguments.

Chidambaram was the Finance Minister when the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) gave Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) clearance to INX Media in 2007. He is facing probe by the CBI and Enforcement Directorate (ED) for alleged irregularities in granting clearance to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore. 
&nbsp;

Our experience tells those who fled country were respectable, responsible businessmen: CBI tells court on Chidambaram''s flight risk The CBI on Friday said former union minister P Chidambaram is at flight risk while arguing in the Delhi High Court against the Congress leader`s bail plea in the INX media case.

Our experience tells those who fled country were respectable, responsible businessmen: CBI tells court on Chidambaram''s flight risk The CBI on Friday said former union minister P Chidambaram is at flight risk while arguing in the Delhi High Court against the Congress leader`s bail plea in the INX media case. The agency said that all those who have fled the country were all respectable and responsible businessmen of the society and this is a serious case where a person knows he may be punished. He is powerful, influential and economically strong enough to settle down in another country. Senior Kapil Sibal, appearing for Chidambaram said he is not at flight risk and there is no evidence of me tampering with evidence. "All the persons concerned have given their statements and all documents are in the files. Why the prosecution agency wants P Chidambaram to continue to be in jail? P Chidambaram`s is in their Custody (CBI custody and Judicial custody) since 40 days now," he said. CBI through SG Tushar Mehta further told the Delhi High Court that Chidambaram putting out tweets (through his family members) on the merits of the INX media case is an attempt to influence the case and the investigation. "There has been a tendency that influential people have been influencing proceedings through social media," he added. On CBI allegations that P Chidambaram had met Indrani Mukharji, Sibal said that the Congress leader has never met Indrani Mukherjee at any stage. "Peter Mukharjee also said in a confrontation that Indrani was not the part of the delegation. Indrani is in custody for the allegation of the murder of her own daughter. Her statement can`t be relied upon," he said. Justice Suresh Kumar Kait who is hearing the bail plea of P Chidambaram reserved the order P Chidambaram was arrested by the CBI on 21st August in INX media case and currently in judicial custody and lodged in Tihar Jail. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi appearing for Chidambaram also stated, "After spending 40 days in prison, he will flee? They have to justify each day of incarceration. What is it that you cannot do outside jail but can do inside it." A Delhi court on September 19 extended Chidambaram`s judicial custody till October 3 in a corruption case filed by the CBI. Chidambaram was arrested by the CBI on August 21. At present, he is in judicial custody in Tihar Jail. He is facing a probe by the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for alleged irregularities in granting the clearance to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007. Earlier in the day, the Court had reserved the order on Chidambaram`s bail plea in the INX Media case. Justice Suresh Kumar Kait reserved the order after the lawyers from both sides concluded their arguments. Chidambaram was the Finance Minister when the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) gave Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) clearance to INX Media in 2007. He is facing probe by the CBI and Enforcement Directorate (ED) for alleged irregularities in granting clearance to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore.

Our experience tells those who fled country were respectable, responsible businessmen: CBI tells court on Chidambaram's flight risk

A Pakistani court on Thursday reserved its verdict on the murder case of social media personality Qandeel Baloch.

The verdict will be announced tomorrow, reported Dawn.<iframe data-google-container-id="5" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>

Qandeel, whose real name was Fouzia Azeem, was allegedly murdered by her brother in a shocking case of 'honour-killing' in July 2016.

Suspects, including <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/brother-arrested-for-qandeel-balochs-murder-2659/amp">Qandeel's brother</a>,&nbsp;the main accused, Muhammad Wasim, her other brothers Aslam Shaheen, Mufti Abdul Qavi, Haq Nawaz and Abdul Basit were present in the model court in Multan during the proceedings.

Around 35 witnesses recorded their statement in the case.

Qandeel's brother had earlier confessed to the crime saying that his sister had brought shame to the family with her bold choice of lifestyle and racy posts.

Wasim confessed that he killed his sister because she "brought dishonour to the Baloch name" with her risque videos and statements posted on social media.

In August, Qandeel's parents had submitted an affidavit in the court stating that they have forgiven their sons and the case against them should be dropped.

However, the trial court rejected their demand.

A Pakistani court on Thursday reserved its verdict on the murder case of social media personality Qandeel Baloch. The verdict will be announced tomorrow, reported Dawn.

A Pakistani court on Thursday reserved its verdict on the murder case of social media personality Qandeel Baloch. The verdict will be announced tomorrow, reported Dawn. Qandeel, whose real name was Fouzia Azeem, was allegedly murdered by her brother in a shocking case of 'honour-killing' in July 2016. Suspects, including Qandeel's brother, the main accused, Muhammad Wasim, her other brothers Aslam Shaheen, Mufti Abdul Qavi, Haq Nawaz and Abdul Basit were present in the model court in Multan during the proceedings. Around 35 witnesses recorded their statement in the case. Qandeel's brother had earlier confessed to the crime saying that his sister had brought shame to the family with her bold choice of lifestyle and racy posts. Wasim confessed that he killed his sister because she "brought dishonour to the Baloch name" with her risque videos and statements posted on social media. In August, Qandeel's parents had submitted an affidavit in the court stating that they have forgiven their sons and the case against them should be dropped. However, the trial court rejected their demand.

Pakistan court reserves verdict in Qandeel Baloch case, verdict tomorrow

A Japanese court on Thursday cleared three energy firm bosses of professional negligence in the only criminal trial stemming from the 2011 Fukushima nuclear meltdown.

The three men were senior officials at the TEPCO firm operating the Fukushima Daiichi plant and had faced up to five years in prison if convicted.

"All defendants are not guilty", the presiding judge said, ruling that the executives could not have predicted the scale of the tsunami that overwhelmed the plant and triggered the accident.

The decision is likely to be appealed, extending the legal wrangling over responsibility for the worst nuclear accident since Chernobyl, more than eight years after the disaster.

Outside the courtroom, dozens of people staged a rally, including some who had travelled from the Fukushima region to hear the verdict.

"It is absolutely an unjust ruling. We absolutely cannot accept this," one woman said angrily, addressing the crowd.

"We will appeal this and continue our fight," shouted a man nearby.

TEPCO declined to comment on the verdict, repeating its "sincere apologies for the great inconvenience and concern" caused by the disaster.

The three former executives were accused of professional negligence resulting in death and injury for failing to act on information about the risks from a major tsunami, but they argued the data available to them at the time was unreliable.

Judge Kenichi Nagafuchi said the verdict turned on the "predictability" of the massive tsunami that swamped the nuclear plant in March 2011 after a 9.0-magnitude undersea earthquake.

He pointed out there had been no proposal from the government's nuclear watchdog "that TEPCO should suspend operations until (safety) measures are taken."

Complex path to trial

No one was killed in the nuclear meltdown, but the tsunami left 18,500 dead or missing.

The ex-TEPCO executives faced trial in relation to the deaths of more than 40 hospitalised patients who died after having to be evacuated following the nuclear disaster.

Prosecutors twice declined to proceed with the case, citing insufficient evidence and a slim chance of conviction, but were forced to after a judicial review panel composed of ordinary citizens ruled that the trio should face trial.

All three defendants -- former TEPCO chairman Tsunehisa Katsumata, 79, and former vice presidents Sakae Muto, 69, and Ichiro Takekuro, 73 -- had pleaded not guilty.

The prosecutors said the men were present at meetings where experts warned of the anticipated height of a tsunami off the Fukushima coast and should have taken better safety measures.

They argued the executives were presented data warning a tsunami exceeding 10 metres (33 feet) could trigger power loss and a major disaster at the plant.

And a TEPCO internal study, based on a government report, concluded that a wave of up to 15.7 metres could hit after a magnitude-8.3 quake.

In the event, when a 9.0-magnitude quake hit offshore on March 11, 2011, waves as high as 14 metres swamped the reactors' cooling systems.

The resulting meltdown forced massive evacuations and left parts of the surrounding area uninhabitable -- in some cases possibly forever.

'No one taking responsibility'

The three defendants have apologised, but argued they could not have foreseen the disaster based on the available evidence and that they thought officials in the firm responsible for nuclear safety had taken appropriate measures.

"It is difficult to deal with issues that are uncertain and obscure," Takekuro said during the trial.

Separately from the criminal case, dozens of civil lawsuits have been filed against the government and TEPCO.

Some district courts have granted damages to local residents, ordering TEPCO and the government to pay.

Before the verdict, protestors outside the court said the trial was a chance to hold someone accountable for the disaster.

"If we don't hear guilty verdicts, our years-long efforts to bring this to court will not have been rewarded," said Saki Okawara, 67, who came from Miharu in the Fukushima region to hear the verdict.

"And Japanese society's culture of no one taking responsibility will continue."

A Japanese court on Thursday cleared three energy firm bosses of professional negligence in the only criminal trial stemming from the 2011 Fukushima nuclear meltdown.

A Japanese court on Thursday cleared three energy firm bosses of professional negligence in the only criminal trial stemming from the 2011 Fukushima nuclear meltdown. The three men were senior officials at the TEPCO firm operating the Fukushima Daiichi plant and had faced up to five years in prison if convicted. "All defendants are not guilty", the presiding judge said, ruling that the executives could not have predicted the scale of the tsunami that overwhelmed the plant and triggered the accident. The decision is likely to be appealed, extending the legal wrangling over responsibility for the worst nuclear accident since Chernobyl, more than eight years after the disaster. Outside the courtroom, dozens of people staged a rally, including some who had travelled from the Fukushima region to hear the verdict. "It is absolutely an unjust ruling. We absolutely cannot accept this," one woman said angrily, addressing the crowd. "We will appeal this and continue our fight," shouted a man nearby. TEPCO declined to comment on the verdict, repeating its "sincere apologies for the great inconvenience and concern" caused by the disaster. The three former executives were accused of professional negligence resulting in death and injury for failing to act on information about the risks from a major tsunami, but they argued the data available to them at the time was unreliable. Judge Kenichi Nagafuchi said the verdict turned on the "predictability" of the massive tsunami that swamped the nuclear plant in March 2011 after a 9.0-magnitude undersea earthquake. He pointed out there had been no proposal from the government's nuclear watchdog "that TEPCO should suspend operations until (safety) measures are taken." Complex path to trial No one was killed in the nuclear meltdown, but the tsunami left 18,500 dead or missing. The ex-TEPCO executives faced trial in relation to the deaths of more than 40 hospitalised patients who died after having to be evacuated following the nuclear disaster. Prosecutors twice declined to proceed with the case, citing insufficient evidence and a slim chance of conviction, but were forced to after a judicial review panel composed of ordinary citizens ruled that the trio should face trial. All three defendants -- former TEPCO chairman Tsunehisa Katsumata, 79, and former vice presidents Sakae Muto, 69, and Ichiro Takekuro, 73 -- had pleaded not guilty. The prosecutors said the men were present at meetings where experts warned of the anticipated height of a tsunami off the Fukushima coast and should have taken better safety measures. They argued the executives were presented data warning a tsunami exceeding 10 metres (33 feet) could trigger power loss and a major disaster at the plant. And a TEPCO internal study, based on a government report, concluded that a wave of up to 15.7 metres could hit after a magnitude-8.3 quake. In the event, when a 9.0-magnitude quake hit offshore on March 11, 2011, waves as high as 14 metres swamped the reactors' cooling systems. The resulting meltdown forced massive evacuations and left parts of the surrounding area uninhabitable -- in some cases possibly forever. 'No one taking responsibility' The three defendants have apologised, but argued they could not have foreseen the disaster based on the available evidence and that they thought officials in the firm responsible for nuclear safety had taken appropriate measures. "It is difficult to deal with issues that are uncertain and obscure," Takekuro said during the trial. Separately from the criminal case, dozens of civil lawsuits have been filed against the government and TEPCO. Some district courts have granted damages to local residents, ordering TEPCO and the government to pay. Before the verdict, protestors outside the court said the trial was a chance to hold someone accountable for the disaster. "If we don't hear guilty verdicts, our years-long efforts to bring this to court will not have been rewarded," said Saki Okawara, 67, who came from Miharu in the Fukushima region to hear the verdict. "And Japanese society's culture of no one taking responsibility will continue."

Japan court acquits energy bosses over Fukushima disaster

A court here on Tuesday reserved its order on the anticipatory bail plea of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/saradha-chit-fund-scam-former-kolkata-police-commissioner-rajeev-kumar-seeks-more-time-to-appear-before-cbi-249713">former Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar</a>, who is accused of tampering with evidence in Saradha scam case.

District Sessions Judge Md Shabbar Rashidi heard the arguments from both the sides and reserved the order.

Kumar in his plea contended that he was merely a part of the special investigation team (SIT) probing the case and that there were several officers above him in the hierarchy.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/saradha-chit-fund-scam-cbi-issues-lookout-notice-against-rajeev-kumar-221738">CBI</a>, on the other hand, sought the custodial interrogation of Kumar.

Earlier today, a special court in Barasat had refused to hear the anticipatory bail plea, saying it does not have the jurisdiction to pass an order on the application.

Special Court Judge Sanjib Talukdar had asked Kumar to move Barasat's District Sessions Court for relief in the matter.

For quite some time Kumar has been avoiding appearing before the CBI despite being summoned after the Calcutta High Court withdrew protection from the arrest granted to him in the case.

Kumar was a part of the SIT constituted by the state government to probe the scam before the Supreme Court transferred it to the CBI.

Earlier, the CBI had said it needs to interrogate the former Kolkata Police Commissioner in the case.

A court here on Tuesday reserved its order on the anticipatory bail plea of former Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar, who is accused of tampering with evidence in Saradha scam case.

A court here on Tuesday reserved its order on the anticipatory bail plea of former Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar, who is accused of tampering with evidence in Saradha scam case. District Sessions Judge Md Shabbar Rashidi heard the arguments from both the sides and reserved the order. Kumar in his plea contended that he was merely a part of the special investigation team (SIT) probing the case and that there were several officers above him in the hierarchy. The CBI, on the other hand, sought the custodial interrogation of Kumar. Earlier today, a special court in Barasat had refused to hear the anticipatory bail plea, saying it does not have the jurisdiction to pass an order on the application. Special Court Judge Sanjib Talukdar had asked Kumar to move Barasat's District Sessions Court for relief in the matter. For quite some time Kumar has been avoiding appearing before the CBI despite being summoned after the Calcutta High Court withdrew protection from the arrest granted to him in the case. Kumar was a part of the SIT constituted by the state government to probe the scam before the Supreme Court transferred it to the CBI. Earlier, the CBI had said it needs to interrogate the former Kolkata Police Commissioner in the case.

West Bengal: Court reserves order on bail plea of former Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar

The man&nbsp;suspected of&nbsp;shooting&nbsp;at people inside a Norwegian&nbsp;mosque&nbsp;on Saturday, and of killing his stepsister, appeared in&nbsp;court&nbsp;on Monday with black eyes and wounds&nbsp;on his face and neck.

Police are initially seeking to hold Philip Manshaus in custody for four weeks on suspicion of murder and breach of anti-terrorism law.

Manshaus, who briefly smiled at photographers, does not admit to any crime, his lawyer said earlier.

The man suspected of shooting at people inside a Norwegian mosque on Saturday, and of killing his stepsister, appeared in court on Monday with black eyes and wounds on his face and neck.

The man suspected of shooting at people inside a Norwegian mosque on Saturday, and of killing his stepsister, appeared in court on Monday with black eyes and wounds on his face and neck. Police are initially seeking to hold Philip Manshaus in custody for four weeks on suspicion of murder and breach of anti-terrorism law. Manshaus, who briefly smiled at photographers, does not admit to any crime, his lawyer said earlier.

Suspect in Norway mosque shooting appears in court

A Special Court here on Monday extended the interim protection of businessman Ratul Puri from the arrest till tomorrow in connection with the AgustaWestland case.

Hearing and further arguments on his anticipatory bail plea will be held tomorrow at the Rouse Avenue court.

Puri's counsel, advocate Vijay Aggarwal moved several applications seeking case-related documents to be provided to him and certified copies, copy of ECIR and official records of timing and duration in which he had joined the investigation.

Aggarwal further argued that "The same court has granted anticipatory bail to Robert Vadra in a case in which he had appeared around nine times, as far as Ratul Puri matter is concerned, my client has visited more than 25 times".

DP Singh, special public prosecutor in AgustaWestland money laundering case, argued, "Most of the time Ratul was not cooperative, yesterday he himself on record had written that `I m not here for the recording of the statement".

Congress leader and senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who also appeared for Ratul Puri, said, "My client is not on flight risk... There is no authentic information of evidence tempering. After Saturday`s court direction Ratul Puri was called on Saturday and Sunday also. He has been called 25 times. He has shown cooperation, but after calling him so many time, the agency is still harassing him."

Singhvi further stated that his client has provided 'trucks loads documents' but the Enforcement Directorate still saying he is not cooperating.

The ED in its reply has denied the averments made by Puri that he was permitted a lunch and a short meeting during the said time on July 26.

ED alleged that no such meeting was to take place on the said date but only went to meet his lawyers from the office.

After 15-20 minutes he left with his lawyers while his car and the driver were stationed at the same place, the investigative agency stated.

There is a clear attempt to frustrate the investigation as he left in the middle of the ongoing investigation while his statement was being recorded, it said.

ED added that Puri did not deem it appropriate to inform the investigating officer before leaving even though his statement on the said date had begun.

He came at 11 am instead of the scheduled time of 2 pm entailing doubt that he can come early to sit at the reception and see who are the others being summoned and appearing only in a bid to hamper the investigation.

ED reply on the anticipatory bail further highlights that Puri received money from both chains of money trail which includes interstellar technology and channel of Christian Michel James.

ED claims that Puri is in conversation with accused-turned-approver Rajiv Saxena though he claims that he is not influencing the witness.

A Special Court here on Monday extended the interim protection of businessman Ratul Puri from the arrest till tomorrow in connection with the AgustaWestland case.

A Special Court here on Monday extended the interim protection of businessman Ratul Puri from the arrest till tomorrow in connection with the AgustaWestland case. Hearing and further arguments on his anticipatory bail plea will be held tomorrow at the Rouse Avenue court. Puri's counsel, advocate Vijay Aggarwal moved several applications seeking case-related documents to be provided to him and certified copies, copy of ECIR and official records of timing and duration in which he had joined the investigation. Aggarwal further argued that "The same court has granted anticipatory bail to Robert Vadra in a case in which he had appeared around nine times, as far as Ratul Puri matter is concerned, my client has visited more than 25 times". DP Singh, special public prosecutor in AgustaWestland money laundering case, argued, "Most of the time Ratul was not cooperative, yesterday he himself on record had written that `I m not here for the recording of the statement". Congress leader and senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who also appeared for Ratul Puri, said, "My client is not on flight risk... There is no authentic information of evidence tempering. After Saturday`s court direction Ratul Puri was called on Saturday and Sunday also. He has been called 25 times. He has shown cooperation, but after calling him so many time, the agency is still harassing him." Singhvi further stated that his client has provided 'trucks loads documents' but the Enforcement Directorate still saying he is not cooperating. The ED in its reply has denied the averments made by Puri that he was permitted a lunch and a short meeting during the said time on July 26. ED alleged that no such meeting was to take place on the said date but only went to meet his lawyers from the office. After 15-20 minutes he left with his lawyers while his car and the driver were stationed at the same place, the investigative agency stated. There is a clear attempt to frustrate the investigation as he left in the middle of the ongoing investigation while his statement was being recorded, it said. ED added that Puri did not deem it appropriate to inform the investigating officer before leaving even though his statement on the said date had begun. He came at 11 am instead of the scheduled time of 2 pm entailing doubt that he can come early to sit at the reception and see who are the others being summoned and appearing only in a bid to hamper the investigation. ED reply on the anticipatory bail further highlights that Puri received money from both chains of money trail which includes interstellar technology and channel of Christian Michel James. ED claims that Puri is in conversation with accused-turned-approver Rajiv Saxena though he claims that he is not influencing the witness.

AgustaWestland case: Court extends interim protection of Ratul Puri till Tuesday

Mohamed Morsi, Egypt’s first democratically elected president, collapsed and died while on trial in a Cairo courtroom on Monday, six years after the military ousted him in tumultuous circumstances that pushed Egypt back to autocratic rule.

Egypt's former president Mohamed Morsi has died in court

Kathua Rape Case Verdict: 3 policemen convicted for damaging the evidence and one accused acquitted by the court

Kathua Rape Case Verdict: Once accused acquitted by court

Former Nissan Motor Co Chairman Carlos Ghosn looked set to walk out of a Japanese detention centre for the second time since his arrest last year on financial misconduct charges, after a Tokyo court on Thursday set his bail at $4.5 million.

The Tokyo District Court said in a statement that it had approved a bail request from Ghosn's defence team and set bail at 500 million yen ($4.5 million).

Ghosn's lawyers on Monday filed the bail request after the former executive was indicted for aggravated breach of trust, accused of enriching himself at a cost of $5 million to Nissan from July 2017 through July 2018.

It will mark the second time he has been released on bail.&nbsp;

He was initially released last month, but then re-arrested on April 4 on the new charges, returning to the same Tokyo detention centre where he had previously spent 108 dates following his first arrest in November. He has denied all the charges against him.

Ghosn will be free to leave the detention centre after posting bail, but his movements and communications will likely be strictly monitored and restricted in line with his previous bail conditions.

Former Nissan Motor Co Chairman Carlos Ghosn looked set to walk out of a Japanese detention centre for the second time since his arrest last year on financial misconduct charges, after a Tokyo court on Thursday set his bail at $4.

Former Nissan Motor Co Chairman Carlos Ghosn looked set to walk out of a Japanese detention centre for the second time since his arrest last year on financial misconduct charges, after a Tokyo court on Thursday set his bail at $4.5 million. The Tokyo District Court said in a statement that it had approved a bail request from Ghosn's defence team and set bail at 500 million yen ($4.5 million). Ghosn's lawyers on Monday filed the bail request after the former executive was indicted for aggravated breach of trust, accused of enriching himself at a cost of $5 million to Nissan from July 2017 through July 2018. It will mark the second time he has been released on bail. He was initially released last month, but then re-arrested on April 4 on the new charges, returning to the same Tokyo detention centre where he had previously spent 108 dates following his first arrest in November. He has denied all the charges against him. Ghosn will be free to leave the detention centre after posting bail, but his movements and communications will likely be strictly monitored and restricted in line with his previous bail conditions.

Ex-Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn to walk free, again, after court sets bail at $4.5 million

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-declares-complete-exoneration-after-mueller-report-finds-no-collusion-205408">Trump declares 'complete exoneration' after Mueller report finds no collusion with Russia</a>

US President Donald Trump declared Sunday that he had been completely exonerated after his campaign was cleared of colluding with Russia in the 2016 election, in a major boost for his re-election hopes.

The long-awaited final report of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's probe into Moscow's election meddling concluded that no member or associate of the campaign conspired or coordinated with Russia in its plot to boost Trump in the vote more than two years ago.

While not completely absolving the president, Attorney General Bill Barr's letter to Congress summarizing the still-secret Mueller report cleared a dark cloud that had hung over the Trump's legitimacy since he took office in January 2017.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/huge-jump-in-rahul-gandhis-income-says-bjp-asks-where-its-coming-from-205426">'Huge jump' in Rahul Gandhi's income, says BJP, asks where it's coming from</a>

The BJP said Sunday that there had been a "huge jump" in Congress President Rahul Gandhi's income and asked where the money was coming from.&nbsp;

The BJP national spokesperson Sambit Patra said at a press conference on Sunday that Rahul's income, according to his election affidavits, had risen from over Rs 55 lakh in 2004 to Rs 9 crore in 2014.&nbsp;

"How can an MP, who is not a professional, witness such a jump in his income?" Patra asked.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-hindu-minor-girls-approach-court-seeking-protection-man-suspected-to-assist-in-wedding-held-205430">Pakistan: Minor Hindu girls approach </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-hindu-minor-girls-approach-court-seeking-protection-man-suspected-to-assist-in-wedding-held-205430">court</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-hindu-minor-girls-approach-court-seeking-protection-man-suspected-to-assist-in-wedding-held-205430">, </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-hindu-minor-girls-approach-court-seeking-protection-man-suspected-to-assist-in-wedding-held-205430">man</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-hindu-minor-girls-approach-court-seeking-protection-man-suspected-to-assist-in-wedding-held-205430"> suspected to have assisted in their&nbsp;wedding held</a>

A man suspected to have assisted in solemnising the wedding of two Pakistani Hindu minor girls, who were reportedly abducted and forcefully converted to Islam, was arrested on Sunday, as the teenagers approached a court in Pakistan's Punjab province seeking protection, according to a media report.&nbsp;

The two girls, Raveena (13) and Reena (15), were allegedly kidnapped by a group of "influential" men from their home in Ghotki district in Sindh on the eve of Holi. Soon after the kidnapping, a video went viral in which a cleric was purportedly shown solemnising the Nikah (marriage) of the two girls, triggering nationwide outrage.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had also ordered a probe into the issue.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stricken-norway-cruise-ship-reaches-port-after-airlift-drama-205421">Stricken Norway cruise ship reaches port after airlift drama</a>

A cruise liner that ran into trouble in stormy seas off Norway reached port under its own steam Sunday after hundreds of passengers were winched to safety by helicopter in a spectacular rescue operation.

Escorted by tugboats, the Viking Sky arrived in the port of Molde at around 4:15 pm (1515 GMT), television images showed. Nearly a third of its 1,373 passengers and crew had already been airlifted off the ship.

The cruise liner lost power and started drifting on Saturday afternoon two kilometres (1.2 miles) off a stretch of Norwegian coastline notorious for shipwrecks.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/on-the-back-foot-democrats-demand-release-of-full-mueller-report-205409">On the back foot, Democrats demand </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/on-the-back-foot-democrats-demand-release-of-full-mueller-report-205409">release</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/on-the-back-foot-democrats-demand-release-of-full-mueller-report-205409"> of full Mueller report</a>

Top congressional Democrats said Sunday it was "urgent" that the full report on Russian interference in the 2016 US election be publicly released, stressing it does not exonerate Donald Trump.

The president was quick to claim vindication by Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report findings which, according to a summary by Attorney General Bill Barr, found that no Trump campaign official was involved in Russian conspiracies to interfere in the 2016 US election.

Such a conclusion would no doubt blunt a key weapon for Democrats desperate to oust Trump in 2020.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Trump declares 'complete exoneration' after Mueller report finds no collusion with Russia US President Donald Trump declared Sunday that he had been completely exonerated after his campaign was cleared of colluding with Russia in the 2016 election, in a major boost for his re-election hopes.

Trump declares 'complete exoneration' after Mueller report finds no collusion with Russia US President Donald Trump declared Sunday that he had been completely exonerated after his campaign was cleared of colluding with Russia in the 2016 election, in a major boost for his re-election hopes. The long-awaited final report of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's probe into Moscow's election meddling concluded that no member or associate of the campaign conspired or coordinated with Russia in its plot to boost Trump in the vote more than two years ago. While not completely absolving the president, Attorney General Bill Barr's letter to Congress summarizing the still-secret Mueller report cleared a dark cloud that had hung over the Trump's legitimacy since he took office in January 2017. 'Huge jump' in Rahul Gandhi's income, says BJP, asks where it's coming from The BJP said Sunday that there had been a "huge jump" in Congress President Rahul Gandhi's income and asked where the money was coming from. The BJP national spokesperson Sambit Patra said at a press conference on Sunday that Rahul's income, according to his election affidavits, had risen from over Rs 55 lakh in 2004 to Rs 9 crore in 2014. "How can an MP, who is not a professional, witness such a jump in his income?" Patra asked. Pakistan: Minor Hindu girls approach court, man suspected to have assisted in their wedding held A man suspected to have assisted in solemnising the wedding of two Pakistani Hindu minor girls, who were reportedly abducted and forcefully converted to Islam, was arrested on Sunday, as the teenagers approached a court in Pakistan's Punjab province seeking protection, according to a media report. The two girls, Raveena (13) and Reena (15), were allegedly kidnapped by a group of "influential" men from their home in Ghotki district in Sindh on the eve of Holi. Soon after the kidnapping, a video went viral in which a cleric was purportedly shown solemnising the Nikah (marriage) of the two girls, triggering nationwide outrage. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had also ordered a probe into the issue. Stricken Norway cruise ship reaches port after airlift drama A cruise liner that ran into trouble in stormy seas off Norway reached port under its own steam Sunday after hundreds of passengers were winched to safety by helicopter in a spectacular rescue operation. Escorted by tugboats, the Viking Sky arrived in the port of Molde at around 4:15 pm (1515 GMT), television images showed. Nearly a third of its 1,373 passengers and crew had already been airlifted off the ship. The cruise liner lost power and started drifting on Saturday afternoon two kilometres (1.2 miles) off a stretch of Norwegian coastline notorious for shipwrecks. On the back foot, Democrats demand release of full Mueller report Top congressional Democrats said Sunday it was "urgent" that the full report on Russian interference in the 2016 US election be publicly released, stressing it does not exonerate Donald Trump. The president was quick to claim vindication by Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report findings which, according to a summary by Attorney General Bill Barr, found that no Trump campaign official was involved in Russian conspiracies to interfere in the 2016 US election. Such a conclusion would no doubt blunt a key weapon for Democrats desperate to oust Trump in 2020.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The accused New Zealand guman, Brenton Tarrant, has sacked his lawyer and will represent himself in court, news reports said Monday.&nbsp;

Tarrant, who is 28 and Australian, had walked up to two Christchurch mosques on Friday and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-indians-confirmed-dead-in-new-zealand-terror-attack-death-toll-rises-to-50-203766">started shooting with automatic rifles</a>.&nbsp;

By the time he finished — he was finally arrested by police — he had killed 50 worshippers. The youngest of his victims was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-mosque-attacks-youngest-victim-was-3-years-old-say-families-203805">three years old</a>.&nbsp;

Tarrant videotaped the entire attack on a helmet-mounted camera.&nbsp;

The New Zealand Herald quoted the duty lawyer who represented him in court on Saturday as confirming that Tarrant had sacked him and that he planned to represent himself in court.&nbsp;

The Herald quoted Richard Peters as saying Tarrant appeared to be lucid and not mentally unstable — other than the extreme views he held.&nbsp;

Peters added that the could provide an amicus curiae at the trial, a lawyer who would advise Tarrant on the court's rules.

"For this sort of case, you'd have to have a lawyer of some experience, so I would have thought a layperson is not going to quite cut the mustard," Peters told the Herald.&nbsp;

Peters added that the lawyer would not tell Tarrant what questions to ask but would give him "the boundaries for arguing the case".&nbsp;

Peters added that Tarrant did not say why he wanted to represent himself.&nbsp;

There is the fear however, with Tarrant defending himself, that he may use his trial as a platform to propagate his extreme views.&nbsp;

The accused New Zealand guman, Brenton Tarrant, has sacked his lawyer and will represent himself in court, news reports said Monday. Tarrant, who is 28 and Australian, had walked up to two Christchurch mosques on Friday and started shooting with automatic rifles.

The accused New Zealand guman, Brenton Tarrant, has sacked his lawyer and will represent himself in court, news reports said Monday. Tarrant, who is 28 and Australian, had walked up to two Christchurch mosques on Friday and started shooting with automatic rifles. By the time he finished — he was finally arrested by police — he had killed 50 worshippers. The youngest of his victims was three years old. Tarrant videotaped the entire attack on a helmet-mounted camera. The New Zealand Herald quoted the duty lawyer who represented him in court on Saturday as confirming that Tarrant had sacked him and that he planned to represent himself in court. The Herald quoted Richard Peters as saying Tarrant appeared to be lucid and not mentally unstable — other than the extreme views he held. Peters added that the could provide an amicus curiae at the trial, a lawyer who would advise Tarrant on the court's rules. "For this sort of case, you'd have to have a lawyer of some experience, so I would have thought a layperson is not going to quite cut the mustard," Peters told the Herald. Peters added that the lawyer would not tell Tarrant what questions to ask but would give him "the boundaries for arguing the case". Peters added that Tarrant did not say why he wanted to represent himself. There is the fear however, with Tarrant defending himself, that he may use his trial as a platform to propagate his extreme views.

New Zealand mosque attacker to represent himself in court: Reports

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/black-boxes-show-clear-similarities-with-indonesia-crash-ethiopia-says-203937">Black boxes show 'clear similarities' with Indonesia crash, says Ethiopia</a>

Black box data recovered from an Ethiopian Airlines plane that crashed last week show "clear similarities" with a recent crash in Indonesia of the same type of aircraft, Ethiopia's transport minister said on Sunday.

While declining to give details, Dagmawit Moges told journalists the parallels would be the "subject of further study during the investigation," with a preliminary report issued in "30 days".

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manohar-parrikars-last-rites-to-take-place-in-panaji-on-monday-203924">Manohar Parrikar's last rites to take place in Panaji on Monday</a>

The last rites of Goa chief minister Manohar Parrikar will be performed at Miramar here on Monday evening, a BJP spokesperson said.

Parrikar, 63, died at his private residence at Dona Paula near the state capital on Sunday evening after a long illness.

A four-term chief minister and former defence minister, Parrikar had been battling pancreatic cancer since February last year. The BJP stalwart's health, which has been fluctuating for over a year, took a turn for the worse in the past two days.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-mosque-attacker-to-represent-himself-in-court-reports-203964">New Zealand mosque attacker to represent himself in court: Reports</a>

The accused New Zealand guman, Brenton Tarrant, has sacked his lawyer and will represent himself in court, news reports said Monday.&nbsp;

Tarrant, who is Australian and 28, had walked up to two Christchurch mosques on Friday and started shooting with automatic rifles.&nbsp;

By the time he finished — he was finally arrested by police — he had killed 50 worshippers. The youngest of his victims was three years old.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slammed-for-silence-on-white-supremacist-threat-203942">Trump slammed for 'silence' on white supremacist threat</a>

Democrats led by an Arab-American lawmaker attacked President Donald Trump's "silence" on the rise of white supremacy Sunday as a reaction to the New Zealand mosque massacre spilled into a heated US debate over religious and racial bigotry.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-led-alliance-hasnt-reached-a-consensus-on-goa-chief-minister-post-203949">'No consensus yet on next Goa chief minister'</a>

The BJP-led alliance in Goa did not reach a consensus over the next chief minister on Monday, a move necessitated by the death of Manohar Parrikar.

Parrikar (63) died on Sunday evening at his residence near here after battling pancreatic cancer for over a year.

Union minister and senior BJP leader Nitin Gadkari, who arrived here in the early hours of the day, could not secure a consensus between the saffron party and its alliance partners in the state, party MLA Michael Lobo said.

Black boxes show 'clear similarities' with Indonesia crash, says Ethiopia Black box data recovered from an Ethiopian Airlines plane that crashed last week show "clear similarities" with a recent crash in Indonesia of the same type of aircraft, Ethiopia's transport minister said on Sunday.

Black boxes show 'clear similarities' with Indonesia crash, says Ethiopia Black box data recovered from an Ethiopian Airlines plane that crashed last week show "clear similarities" with a recent crash in Indonesia of the same type of aircraft, Ethiopia's transport minister said on Sunday. While declining to give details, Dagmawit Moges told journalists the parallels would be the "subject of further study during the investigation," with a preliminary report issued in "30 days". Manohar Parrikar's last rites to take place in Panaji on Monday The last rites of Goa chief minister Manohar Parrikar will be performed at Miramar here on Monday evening, a BJP spokesperson said. Parrikar, 63, died at his private residence at Dona Paula near the state capital on Sunday evening after a long illness. A four-term chief minister and former defence minister, Parrikar had been battling pancreatic cancer since February last year. The BJP stalwart's health, which has been fluctuating for over a year, took a turn for the worse in the past two days. New Zealand mosque attacker to represent himself in court: Reports The accused New Zealand guman, Brenton Tarrant, has sacked his lawyer and will represent himself in court, news reports said Monday. Tarrant, who is Australian and 28, had walked up to two Christchurch mosques on Friday and started shooting with automatic rifles. By the time he finished — he was finally arrested by police — he had killed 50 worshippers. The youngest of his victims was three years old. Trump slammed for 'silence' on white supremacist threat Democrats led by an Arab-American lawmaker attacked President Donald Trump's "silence" on the rise of white supremacy Sunday as a reaction to the New Zealand mosque massacre spilled into a heated US debate over religious and racial bigotry. 'No consensus yet on next Goa chief minister' The BJP-led alliance in Goa did not reach a consensus over the next chief minister on Monday, a move necessitated by the death of Manohar Parrikar. Parrikar (63) died on Sunday evening at his residence near here after battling pancreatic cancer for over a year. Union minister and senior BJP leader Nitin Gadkari, who arrived here in the early hours of the day, could not secure a consensus between the saffron party and its alliance partners in the state, party MLA Michael Lobo said.

A Delhi court on Thursday sent corporate lobbyist Deepak Talwar to 14-days judicial custody in connection with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/agustawestland-case-delhi-court-sends-rajeev-saxena-to-judicial-custody-till-february-18-orders-his-medical-check-up-196928">AgustaWestland case</a>.

Talwar was extradited by Dubai authorities on January 30, along with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajiv-saxena-accused-in-agustawestland-case-to-be-extradited-from-dubai-sources-193950">Dubai-based businessman Rajeev Saxena.</a>

The ED has alleged that Talwar was involved in cases related to corporate lobbying. Last week, he was extradited to India in cases involving alleged routing and misuse of Rs 90 crore.&nbsp;

He is the main accused who allegedly facilitated dispersal of profit making routes of Air India to private airlines using his contacts.

On January 31, the Patiala House Court granted a seven-day custodial remand of Talwar to the ED after he was produced before the Special Judge S S Mann.

A Delhi court on Thursday sent corporate lobbyist Deepak Talwar to 14-days judicial custody in connection with AgustaWestland case. Talwar was extradited by Dubai authorities on January 30, along with Dubai-based businessman Rajeev Saxena.

A Delhi court on Thursday sent corporate lobbyist Deepak Talwar to 14-days judicial custody in connection with AgustaWestland case. Talwar was extradited by Dubai authorities on January 30, along with Dubai-based businessman Rajeev Saxena. The ED has alleged that Talwar was involved in cases related to corporate lobbying. Last week, he was extradited to India in cases involving alleged routing and misuse of Rs 90 crore. He is the main accused who allegedly facilitated dispersal of profit making routes of Air India to private airlines using his contacts. On January 31, the Patiala House Court granted a seven-day custodial remand of Talwar to the ED after he was produced before the Special Judge S S Mann.

AgustaWestland case: Delhi Court sends Deepak Talwar to 14-day judicial custody

A Delhi court on Monday fixed February 22 for hearing a pre-summoning argument in the defamation complaint filed against 'The Caravan'&nbsp;and Congress'&nbsp;Jairam Ramesh.

The complaint was filed by National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval`s son Vivek Doval against the magazine for allegedly publishing a defamatory article and Jairam Ramesh for using content from the article.

Earlier in the day, Vivek`s business partner Amit Sharma had recorded his statement before the court.

In his statement, Sharma said, "I know Vivek Doval (complainant) since 2004 when we both were semiconductor analyst at different banks. I was at Deutsche Bank and Vivek was at Bear Stearn Bank. Since then we became friends and had been in regular contact."

"Later, Vivek and I discussed stock ideas very regularly and got along very well over the course of the next several years," he noted."In 2012, when Boyer Allen shut down. Vivek was looking for what to do next.&nbsp;This is when we came up with the idea of the launching of a fund together," Sharma said.

This development came to light after Vivek on January 30 recorded his statement before the same court.

Vivek asserted that all charges made against him were “baseless and false” and references were made in “a demeaning manner” without trying to “ascertain the facts.”He had recorded his statement before Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Samar Vishal.

“I was livid after reading the article published about me in a magazine and the manner in which the events were narrated. My family was referred to as D-Companies whereas we all know that in our country the D-Company refers to Dawood Ibrahim, a known criminal, who figures in the most wanted list,” he told the court.

“Questions were also raised on the integrity of my family, especially my father who has dedicated his life to the service of the nation and fighting against Dawood,” Vivek further said.

Vivek, who obtained CFA from the US in 2006 and did CAIA from CAIA institute in 2010, said: “Allegations were levied about money laundering and converting the black money into white, without there being any basis.”It was written that Rs 8,300 crore of black money has been round tripped to India thereby tarnishing my career and my venture GNY Asia Fund,” he stated.

Calling himself a proud Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) and citizen of the UK, Doval also asserted that “the article branded him and his family as anti-national.”

Stating that Jairam Ramesh, a former Union Minister, had used the platform of the Indian National Congress (INC) to propagate these charges, he said: “There were many derogatory comments spoken which raised numerous questions on the integrity of my family.”

“Unpleasantness was bestowed upon me and my family based on falsehood and mala-fide. Without trying to ascertain facts, references were made in a demeaning manner,” he said.

He also claimed that the repercussions of the article and press conference questioned his professional integrity, which is of critical importance for his career.“It has questioned my social standing as a fund manager. If I have dubious integrity, my career is over as a Fund manager.”

On January 21, Vivek had filed a criminal defamation case against Congress leader Jairam Ramesh and two journalists, contending that they had caused “irreparable damage” to his reputation “through calculated insinuations and innuendos.”

Vivek has contended that Ramesh and the two journalists “have committed the offence of defamation punishable under Section 500 of IPC (which provides for simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both) read with Section 120-B IPC (criminal conspiracy).&nbsp;

A Delhi court on Monday fixed February 22 for hearing a pre-summoning argument in the defamation complaint filed against 'The Caravan' and Congress' Jairam Ramesh.

A Delhi court on Monday fixed February 22 for hearing a pre-summoning argument in the defamation complaint filed against 'The Caravan' and Congress' Jairam Ramesh. The complaint was filed by National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval`s son Vivek Doval against the magazine for allegedly publishing a defamatory article and Jairam Ramesh for using content from the article. Earlier in the day, Vivek`s business partner Amit Sharma had recorded his statement before the court. In his statement, Sharma said, "I know Vivek Doval (complainant) since 2004 when we both were semiconductor analyst at different banks. I was at Deutsche Bank and Vivek was at Bear Stearn Bank. Since then we became friends and had been in regular contact." "Later, Vivek and I discussed stock ideas very regularly and got along very well over the course of the next several years," he noted."In 2012, when Boyer Allen shut down. Vivek was looking for what to do next. This is when we came up with the idea of the launching of a fund together," Sharma said. This development came to light after Vivek on January 30 recorded his statement before the same court. Vivek asserted that all charges made against him were “baseless and false” and references were made in “a demeaning manner” without trying to “ascertain the facts.”He had recorded his statement before Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Samar Vishal. “I was livid after reading the article published about me in a magazine and the manner in which the events were narrated. My family was referred to as D-Companies whereas we all know that in our country the D-Company refers to Dawood Ibrahim, a known criminal, who figures in the most wanted list,” he told the court. “Questions were also raised on the integrity of my family, especially my father who has dedicated his life to the service of the nation and fighting against Dawood,” Vivek further said. Vivek, who obtained CFA from the US in 2006 and did CAIA from CAIA institute in 2010, said: “Allegations were levied about money laundering and converting the black money into white, without there being any basis.”It was written that Rs 8,300 crore of black money has been round tripped to India thereby tarnishing my career and my venture GNY Asia Fund,” he stated. Calling himself a proud Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) and citizen of the UK, Doval also asserted that “the article branded him and his family as anti-national.” Stating that Jairam Ramesh, a former Union Minister, had used the platform of the Indian National Congress (INC) to propagate these charges, he said: “There were many derogatory comments spoken which raised numerous questions on the integrity of my family.” “Unpleasantness was bestowed upon me and my family based on falsehood and mala-fide. Without trying to ascertain facts, references were made in a demeaning manner,” he said. He also claimed that the repercussions of the article and press conference questioned his professional integrity, which is of critical importance for his career.“It has questioned my social standing as a fund manager. If I have dubious integrity, my career is over as a Fund manager.” On January 21, Vivek had filed a criminal defamation case against Congress leader Jairam Ramesh and two journalists, contending that they had caused “irreparable damage” to his reputation “through calculated insinuations and innuendos.” Vivek has contended that Ramesh and the two journalists “have committed the offence of defamation punishable under Section 500 of IPC (which provides for simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both) read with Section 120-B IPC (criminal conspiracy).

Court to hear pre-summoning argument in defamation suit by Vivek Doval on February 22

In a landmark decision, Abu Dhabi has included Hindi as the third official language used in its courts, alongside Arabic and English, as part of a move designed to improve access to justice.

The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department on Saturday said it has extended the adoption of interactive forms of statement of claims filed before courts by including the Hindi language alongside Arabic and English in labour cases.

This is aimed at helping Hindi speakers to learn about litigation procedures, their rights and duties without a language barrier, in addition to facilitating registration procedures via unified forms available through the ADJD website, the judicial body said.

According to official figures, the UAE population is estimated to be around five million of which 2/3rd are immigrants from foreign countries.

The Indian community in the UAE, numbering 2.6 million, constitutes 30 per cent of the total population and is the largest expatriate community in the country.

Yousef Saeed Al Abri, the undersecretary of the ADJD, said the adoption of multilingual interactive forms for claim sheets, grievances, and requests, aims to promote judicial services in line with the plan Tomorrow 2021 and increase the transparency of litigation procedures.

"This is in addition to facilitating registration procedures to the public through simplified and easy forms and raising litigants' legal awareness via interactive forms of the statements of claims, to ensure access to the legal materials related to the subject of the dispute," Al Abri was quoted as saying by the Khaleej Times.

He indicated that the extension of the adoption of interactive forms in several languages comes under the directives of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs and ADJD Chairman.

Al Abri explained that the adoption of new languages comes as part of the bilingual litigation system, the first phase of which was launched in November 2018, through the adoption of procedures requiring the plaintiffs to translate the case documents in civil and commercial lawsuits into English, if the defendant is a foreigner.&nbsp;

"The foreign investor receives the case files translated, thus contributing to the provision of a global judicial service that meets the requirements of residents in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi," he added.&nbsp;

In a landmark decision, Abu Dhabi has included Hindi as the third official language used in its courts, alongside Arabic and English, as part of a move designed to improve access to justice.

In a landmark decision, Abu Dhabi has included Hindi as the third official language used in its courts, alongside Arabic and English, as part of a move designed to improve access to justice. The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department on Saturday said it has extended the adoption of interactive forms of statement of claims filed before courts by including the Hindi language alongside Arabic and English in labour cases. This is aimed at helping Hindi speakers to learn about litigation procedures, their rights and duties without a language barrier, in addition to facilitating registration procedures via unified forms available through the ADJD website, the judicial body said. According to official figures, the UAE population is estimated to be around five million of which 2/3rd are immigrants from foreign countries. The Indian community in the UAE, numbering 2.6 million, constitutes 30 per cent of the total population and is the largest expatriate community in the country. Yousef Saeed Al Abri, the undersecretary of the ADJD, said the adoption of multilingual interactive forms for claim sheets, grievances, and requests, aims to promote judicial services in line with the plan Tomorrow 2021 and increase the transparency of litigation procedures. "This is in addition to facilitating registration procedures to the public through simplified and easy forms and raising litigants' legal awareness via interactive forms of the statements of claims, to ensure access to the legal materials related to the subject of the dispute," Al Abri was quoted as saying by the Khaleej Times. He indicated that the extension of the adoption of interactive forms in several languages comes under the directives of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs and ADJD Chairman. Al Abri explained that the adoption of new languages comes as part of the bilingual litigation system, the first phase of which was launched in November 2018, through the adoption of procedures requiring the plaintiffs to translate the case documents in civil and commercial lawsuits into English, if the defendant is a foreigner. "The foreign investor receives the case files translated, thus contributing to the provision of a global judicial service that meets the requirements of residents in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi," he added.

Abu Dhabi to use Hindi as third official language in its courts alongside Arabic and English

The Delhi High Court today sought a response from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on a plea by alleged lobbyist Deepak Talwar challenging his detention by Indian agencies after he was deported from the UAE last week.

The probe agency has claimed entities directly or indirectly controlled by the accused received exorbitant amounts from Qatar Airways, Emirates and Air Arabia and submitted a chart of total $60.54 million received by firms directly or indirectly owned by Deepak Talwar between April 23, 2008, to February 6, 2009.

A bench of Justices Siddharth Mridul and Sangita Dhingra Sehgal issued a notice to the ED and directed it to file a response to the petition by February 11.

The court listed the matter for further hearing on February 12.

Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Deepak Talwar, contended that his client was picked up from Dubai and handed over to Indian authorities.

"Government of India abducted my client. More so when there was a summons for him to appear on February 4. There was no extradition and they picked him up," he argued.

The ED was represented by Central government standing counsel Amit Mahajan who sought time to respond to the plea.

Deepak Talwar, who is in ED custody, was deported from Dubai on January 30 and was arrested by the agency after reaching New Delhi.

The ED earlier alleged before a trial court that Deepak Talwar acted as a middleman in negotiations to favour foreign private airlines, causing loss to national carrier Air India.

ED said it needs to interrogate Deepak Talwar to get the names of officials of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, National Aviation Company of India Ltd and Air India, who favoured foreign airlines, including Qatar Airways, Emirates and Air Arabia.

He has been charged with criminal conspiracy, forgery and under various other sections of the FCRA for allegedly diverting Rs. 90.72 crore worth of foreign funds meant for ambulances and other articles received by his NGO from Europe's leading missile manufacturing company.

His role in some aviation deals during the previous Congress-led United Progressive Alliance's (UPA) regime at the Centre is under the scanner as well.

Deepak Talwar was booked by the ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in criminal cases of corruption, while the Income Tax Department charged him with tax evasion.

The Delhi High Court today sought a response from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on a plea by alleged lobbyist Deepak Talwar challenging his detention by Indian agencies after he was deported from the UAE last week.

The Delhi High Court today sought a response from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on a plea by alleged lobbyist Deepak Talwar challenging his detention by Indian agencies after he was deported from the UAE last week. The probe agency has claimed entities directly or indirectly controlled by the accused received exorbitant amounts from Qatar Airways, Emirates and Air Arabia and submitted a chart of total $60.54 million received by firms directly or indirectly owned by Deepak Talwar between April 23, 2008, to February 6, 2009. A bench of Justices Siddharth Mridul and Sangita Dhingra Sehgal issued a notice to the ED and directed it to file a response to the petition by February 11. The court listed the matter for further hearing on February 12. Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Deepak Talwar, contended that his client was picked up from Dubai and handed over to Indian authorities. "Government of India abducted my client. More so when there was a summons for him to appear on February 4. There was no extradition and they picked him up," he argued. The ED was represented by Central government standing counsel Amit Mahajan who sought time to respond to the plea. Deepak Talwar, who is in ED custody, was deported from Dubai on January 30 and was arrested by the agency after reaching New Delhi. The ED earlier alleged before a trial court that Deepak Talwar acted as a middleman in negotiations to favour foreign private airlines, causing loss to national carrier Air India. ED said it needs to interrogate Deepak Talwar to get the names of officials of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, National Aviation Company of India Ltd and Air India, who favoured foreign airlines, including Qatar Airways, Emirates and Air Arabia. He has been charged with criminal conspiracy, forgery and under various other sections of the FCRA for allegedly diverting Rs. 90.72 crore worth of foreign funds meant for ambulances and other articles received by his NGO from Europe's leading missile manufacturing company. His role in some aviation deals during the previous Congress-led United Progressive Alliance's (UPA) regime at the Centre is under the scanner as well. Deepak Talwar was booked by the ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in criminal cases of corruption, while the Income Tax Department charged him with tax evasion.

Court seeks probe agency's reply on Deepak Talwar's plea on deportation

A witness in the trial of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/at-el-chapo-trial-ex-hitman-tells-of-kingpins-gruesome-tactics-192586">Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman</a> told the US government the Mexican drug kingpin drugged and raped girls as young as 13, according to court documents unsealed Saturday.

Longtime associate Alex Cifuentes told authorities a woman would send Guzman photos of young girls to choose from, with a fee of $5,000 per girl.

Cifuentes used this service himself three or four times, having sex with girls as young as 15-years-old, the government said in the documents, adding he "witnessed the defendant do the same on multiple occasions, with girls as young as 13 years old."

The former Sinaloa cartel leader, 61, would allegedly sometimes drug the girls with "a powdery substance" with Cifuentes' help before raping them.

But Cifuentes, who lived with Guzman in 2007 and 2008, did not mention any of this in four days of testimony during the trial, which ended on Thursday after three months of hearings.

"Joaquin denies the allegations, which lack any corroboration and were deemed too prejudicial and unreliable to be admitted at trial," Guzman's lawyer, Eduardo Balarezo, said in an emailed statement.

"It is unfortunate that the material was publicly released just prior to the jury beginning deliberations."

On Monday, the jury will begin deliberating whether Guzman is guilty of trafficking hundreds of tons of drugs into the US. He faces a life sentence if convicted.

The documents were published following a legal claim by US media, which throughout the trial fought the secrecy surrounding the case.

Cifuentes, 50, was arrested in Mexico in 2013 then deported from Colombia to the US. Currently, in prison, he is cooperating with the government in exchange for a reduced sentence.

A witness in the trial of Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman told the US government the Mexican drug kingpin drugged and raped girls as young as 13, according to court documents unsealed Saturday.

A witness in the trial of Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman told the US government the Mexican drug kingpin drugged and raped girls as young as 13, according to court documents unsealed Saturday. Longtime associate Alex Cifuentes told authorities a woman would send Guzman photos of young girls to choose from, with a fee of $5,000 per girl. Cifuentes used this service himself three or four times, having sex with girls as young as 15-years-old, the government said in the documents, adding he "witnessed the defendant do the same on multiple occasions, with girls as young as 13 years old." The former Sinaloa cartel leader, 61, would allegedly sometimes drug the girls with "a powdery substance" with Cifuentes' help before raping them. But Cifuentes, who lived with Guzman in 2007 and 2008, did not mention any of this in four days of testimony during the trial, which ended on Thursday after three months of hearings. "Joaquin denies the allegations, which lack any corroboration and were deemed too prejudicial and unreliable to be admitted at trial," Guzman's lawyer, Eduardo Balarezo, said in an emailed statement. "It is unfortunate that the material was publicly released just prior to the jury beginning deliberations." On Monday, the jury will begin deliberating whether Guzman is guilty of trafficking hundreds of tons of drugs into the US. He faces a life sentence if convicted. The documents were published following a legal claim by US media, which throughout the trial fought the secrecy surrounding the case. Cifuentes, 50, was arrested in Mexico in 2013 then deported from Colombia to the US. Currently, in prison, he is cooperating with the government in exchange for a reduced sentence.

El Chapo drugged and raped teenage girls, witness claims

Already tilted to the right by President Donald Trump's nominations, the US Supreme Court is facing a test case on abortion rights, one of the most polarizing issues in an already divided nation. &nbsp;

A clinic and two doctors offering abortions in Louisiana have appealed to the Supreme Court to block a law restricting access to abortion that is due to come into force next week in the conservative southern state.

The law, approved in 2014, would require doctors offering abortions to have admitting privileges at a hospital within 30 miles of where they operate.

Louisiana argues that the risks of complications arising during an abortion procedure mean that patients may need to be transferred to a nearby hospital where doctors could step in.

That argument was endorsed by a state appeals court and the law will come into effect on Monday unless challenged by the Supreme Court.

A similar law limiting abortion access in Texas was struck down by the Supreme Court in 2016.

But since Trump came to office two years ago, he has appointed two new conservative justices, tilting the balance of the court sharply to the right.

A decision not to take up the case would encourage the American right-wing and evangelical movement to step up challenges to longstanding abortion laws.&nbsp;

The plaintiffs in the Louisiana case argue the new law "will have disastrous consequences for women in the state," where 10,000 women seek abortions every year.

"Louisiana’s admitting privileges requirement would leave only one physician providing abortions in the entire state and that all-but-one clinic that provides abortion care would be forced to close," they said.

They said the Texas law, adopted in 2013, led to the closure of half of the services offering abortions in the state, before being overturned by the Supreme Court three years later.&nbsp;

All eyes on new judges

Despite being a twice-divorced former casino mogul, Trump won over the powerful evangelical right by promising to appoint judges opposed to abortion rights.

Once in office, he made good on his pledge by nominating Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh, tipping the balance of the court to five conservative justices and just four liberals.

Both men stressed the importance of legal precedent in their confirmation hearings, but anti-abortion activists saw their appointments as a chance to assail the landmark 1973 Supreme Court ruling allowing abortion, known as Roe v Wade.

The Louisiana case will prove a key stress test for that ruling.

If either one of the new appointees' sides with the progressives, the top court can freeze the Louisiana law.

Otherwise, the court will not intercede and the law will go into effect.

Defenders of women's right to abortion fear that silence from the court will encourage other states to follow Louisiana's lead.

'1,000 cuts '

A 57-per cent majority of Americans back women's right to seek abortions, but the hot-button issue cuts deeply along political and religious lines, according to a survey by the Pew Research Center.&nbsp;

Some 59 per cent of Republicans and 61 per cent of evangelicals say that abortion should be illegal in all or most cases.&nbsp;

Since Roe v&nbsp;Wade came into effect, states have sought ways to restrict access, trying to impose delays and threatening non-reimbursement of costs to patients. &nbsp;

That has led to huge regional disparities in the availability of abortions, with more than 500 centres offering them in California and only four in Kansas, according to the Guttmacher Institute.

The Guttmacher Institute said the "changing composition of the Supreme Court has heightened the risks" of restrictions on access to abortions.

"Anti-abortion politicians are hoping that the Supreme Court will stand by and let them legislate abortion out of reach — without the court ever having to reverse Roe v. Wade," said Nancy Northup, head of the Center for Reproductive Rights.

"That would be death to Roe by a thousand cuts," she said in an opinion piece in the New York Times.

Already tilted to the right by President Donald Trump's nominations, the US Supreme Court is facing a test case on abortion rights, one of the most polarizing issues in an already divided nation.

Already tilted to the right by President Donald Trump's nominations, the US Supreme Court is facing a test case on abortion rights, one of the most polarizing issues in an already divided nation. A clinic and two doctors offering abortions in Louisiana have appealed to the Supreme Court to block a law restricting access to abortion that is due to come into force next week in the conservative southern state. The law, approved in 2014, would require doctors offering abortions to have admitting privileges at a hospital within 30 miles of where they operate. Louisiana argues that the risks of complications arising during an abortion procedure mean that patients may need to be transferred to a nearby hospital where doctors could step in. That argument was endorsed by a state appeals court and the law will come into effect on Monday unless challenged by the Supreme Court. A similar law limiting abortion access in Texas was struck down by the Supreme Court in 2016. But since Trump came to office two years ago, he has appointed two new conservative justices, tilting the balance of the court sharply to the right. A decision not to take up the case would encourage the American right-wing and evangelical movement to step up challenges to longstanding abortion laws. The plaintiffs in the Louisiana case argue the new law "will have disastrous consequences for women in the state," where 10,000 women seek abortions every year. "Louisiana’s admitting privileges requirement would leave only one physician providing abortions in the entire state and that all-but-one clinic that provides abortion care would be forced to close," they said. They said the Texas law, adopted in 2013, led to the closure of half of the services offering abortions in the state, before being overturned by the Supreme Court three years later. All eyes on new judges Despite being a twice-divorced former casino mogul, Trump won over the powerful evangelical right by promising to appoint judges opposed to abortion rights. Once in office, he made good on his pledge by nominating Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh, tipping the balance of the court to five conservative justices and just four liberals. Both men stressed the importance of legal precedent in their confirmation hearings, but anti-abortion activists saw their appointments as a chance to assail the landmark 1973 Supreme Court ruling allowing abortion, known as Roe v Wade. The Louisiana case will prove a key stress test for that ruling. If either one of the new appointees' sides with the progressives, the top court can freeze the Louisiana law. Otherwise, the court will not intercede and the law will go into effect. Defenders of women's right to abortion fear that silence from the court will encourage other states to follow Louisiana's lead. '1,000 cuts ' A 57-per cent majority of Americans back women's right to seek abortions, but the hot-button issue cuts deeply along political and religious lines, according to a survey by the Pew Research Center. Some 59 per cent of Republicans and 61 per cent of evangelicals say that abortion should be illegal in all or most cases. Since Roe v Wade came into effect, states have sought ways to restrict access, trying to impose delays and threatening non-reimbursement of costs to patients. That has led to huge regional disparities in the availability of abortions, with more than 500 centres offering them in California and only four in Kansas, according to the Guttmacher Institute. The Guttmacher Institute said the "changing composition of the Supreme Court has heightened the risks" of restrictions on access to abortions. "Anti-abortion politicians are hoping that the Supreme Court will stand by and let them legislate abortion out of reach — without the court ever having to reverse Roe v. Wade," said Nancy Northup, head of the Center for Reproductive Rights. "That would be death to Roe by a thousand cuts," she said in an opinion piece in the New York Times.

US top court facing litmus test on abortion

A dozen <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/court-asks-for-jail-transfer-of-catalans-before-trial-189443">Catalan separatists will go on trial</a> on February 12 over their bid to make the region independent from Spain, the Supreme Court said Friday, naming former prime minister Mariano Rajoy among those called to testify.

Nine of the accused are charged with rebellion for their role in the dramatic breakaway attempt in October 2017. They face up to 25 years in jail.

Rajoy, who ruled Spain until last June, will be one of "hundreds" of witnesses to testify at the trial, a Supreme Court document said.

He sacked Catalonia's regional government and called snap local elections after the Catalan parliament declared independence in October 2017 following a banned independence referendum.&nbsp;

Rajoy was unseated by a no-confidence vote backed by Catalan separatist parties last year.

The trial will last "around three months", with a verdict expected within three months, the president of Spain's Supreme Court, Carlos Lesmes, told reporters in Madrid.

"This is the most important trial which we have known in democracy," he added.

The trial will be broadcast in full on Spanish TV and it is expected to have national political implications.

Tensions are likely to flare up between the central government and the separatists who rule Catalonia despite Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's attempts to defuse the independence issue.

That makes it unlikely Catalan separatist parties will give their crucial backing for his minority government's 2019 budget, said Eurasia Group analyst Federico Santi.

"Failure to pass the budget, in turn, is likely to prompt Sanchez to resign and bring the 2020 elections forward to later this year," he added.

'Fake justice!'

Rajoy's deputy prime minister Soraya Saez de Santamaria and Barcelona's current mayor Ada Colau are among those summoned to testify at the trial.

The court said it would also hear testimony from police officers and citizens who were injured during clashes during the October 1, 2017 independence referendum.

Riot police beat protesters and stormed polling stations on the day of the referendum in an attempt to stop it from going ahead.

In pre-trial detention for months, the nine jailed defendants were being transferred from the northeastern region of Catalonia to prisons near Madrid on Friday.

Supporters in Barcelona cheered them as they were taken away, waving the region's red, yellow and blue separatist flag and holding up umbrellas to guard against the rain. Some held up black and white signs in English that read "Fake justice!".

Three others will also stand trial, accused of disobedience and misuse of public funds.

Catalan President Quim Torra read a statement in English and Catalan in support of the defendants, saying "they have not committed any crimes".

'Farce'

Supporters of independence for Catalonia call the trial a "farce".

But many Spaniards support it, having looked on in disbelief as the rich region's then executive tried to secede.

Catalonia's president at the time of the secession bid, Carles Puigdemont, is also accused of rebellion.

But he fled Spain after the region's majority-separatist parliament made a short-lived declaration of independence on October 27, 2017, which triggered Spain's worst political crisis in decades.&nbsp;

He is not among the 12 going on trial this month in Spain, which does not try suspects in absentia.

The trial's main protagonist is former Catalan vice president Oriol Junqueras, who opted to remain in Spain. He faces up to 25 years in jail on charges of rebellion and misuse of public funds.

'Not a crime'

Puigdemont and fellow separatists have all denied any wrongdoing, saying the 2017 referendum gave them the authority to break away from Spain.

The Catalan government claimed some 2.3 million people took part in the referendum and that 90 per cent had backed independence. Those figures could not be independently confirmed.

Far from curbing the desire for independence, the prosecution of the separatist leaders has energised the movement for Catalan self-determination and helped to keep the movement united despite deep divisions over strategy.

Hundreds of Catalan separatists protested outside an EU office in Barcelona on Friday night against what they claim is the unfair treatment of the defendants.

They hung a banner from the office's balcony that read in English: "Self-determination is a right, not a crime".

Twenty-one protesters entered the office and plan to spend the night, a spokeswoman for influential grassroots separatist group ANC which organised the demonstration told AFP. 
&nbsp;

A dozen Catalan separatists will go on trial on February 12 over their bid to make the region independent from Spain, the Supreme Court said Friday, naming former prime minister Mariano Rajoy among those called to testify.

A dozen Catalan separatists will go on trial on February 12 over their bid to make the region independent from Spain, the Supreme Court said Friday, naming former prime minister Mariano Rajoy among those called to testify. Nine of the accused are charged with rebellion for their role in the dramatic breakaway attempt in October 2017. They face up to 25 years in jail. Rajoy, who ruled Spain until last June, will be one of "hundreds" of witnesses to testify at the trial, a Supreme Court document said. He sacked Catalonia's regional government and called snap local elections after the Catalan parliament declared independence in October 2017 following a banned independence referendum. Rajoy was unseated by a no-confidence vote backed by Catalan separatist parties last year. The trial will last "around three months", with a verdict expected within three months, the president of Spain's Supreme Court, Carlos Lesmes, told reporters in Madrid. "This is the most important trial which we have known in democracy," he added. The trial will be broadcast in full on Spanish TV and it is expected to have national political implications. Tensions are likely to flare up between the central government and the separatists who rule Catalonia despite Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's attempts to defuse the independence issue. That makes it unlikely Catalan separatist parties will give their crucial backing for his minority government's 2019 budget, said Eurasia Group analyst Federico Santi. "Failure to pass the budget, in turn, is likely to prompt Sanchez to resign and bring the 2020 elections forward to later this year," he added. 'Fake justice!' Rajoy's deputy prime minister Soraya Saez de Santamaria and Barcelona's current mayor Ada Colau are among those summoned to testify at the trial. The court said it would also hear testimony from police officers and citizens who were injured during clashes during the October 1, 2017 independence referendum. Riot police beat protesters and stormed polling stations on the day of the referendum in an attempt to stop it from going ahead. In pre-trial detention for months, the nine jailed defendants were being transferred from the northeastern region of Catalonia to prisons near Madrid on Friday. Supporters in Barcelona cheered them as they were taken away, waving the region's red, yellow and blue separatist flag and holding up umbrellas to guard against the rain. Some held up black and white signs in English that read "Fake justice!". Three others will also stand trial, accused of disobedience and misuse of public funds. Catalan President Quim Torra read a statement in English and Catalan in support of the defendants, saying "they have not committed any crimes". 'Farce' Supporters of independence for Catalonia call the trial a "farce". But many Spaniards support it, having looked on in disbelief as the rich region's then executive tried to secede. Catalonia's president at the time of the secession bid, Carles Puigdemont, is also accused of rebellion. But he fled Spain after the region's majority-separatist parliament made a short-lived declaration of independence on October 27, 2017, which triggered Spain's worst political crisis in decades. He is not among the 12 going on trial this month in Spain, which does not try suspects in absentia. The trial's main protagonist is former Catalan vice president Oriol Junqueras, who opted to remain in Spain. He faces up to 25 years in jail on charges of rebellion and misuse of public funds. 'Not a crime' Puigdemont and fellow separatists have all denied any wrongdoing, saying the 2017 referendum gave them the authority to break away from Spain. The Catalan government claimed some 2.3 million people took part in the referendum and that 90 per cent had backed independence. Those figures could not be independently confirmed. Far from curbing the desire for independence, the prosecution of the separatist leaders has energised the movement for Catalan self-determination and helped to keep the movement united despite deep divisions over strategy. Hundreds of Catalan separatists protested outside an EU office in Barcelona on Friday night against what they claim is the unfair treatment of the defendants. They hung a banner from the office's balcony that read in English: "Self-determination is a right, not a crime". Twenty-one protesters entered the office and plan to spend the night, a spokeswoman for influential grassroots separatist group ANC which organised the demonstration told AFP.

Catalan separatists' trial set for February 12: Court

A Pakistan court heard the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/india-news/a-decade-of-mumbai-terror-attack-what-all-happened-during-attacks-and-in-years-to-follow-179407&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjv0fXUuYPgAhVUfXAKHa52B8oQFggSMAU&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw31vZgk0QTYYvZ1newbXenL">2008 Mumbai attack case</a> to let the prosecutor produce more witnesses. 
&nbsp; 
Ten Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists had sailed into <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-summons-sharif-treason-case-over-mumbai-attack-remarks-167459&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjv0fXUuYPgAhVUfXAKHa52B8oQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1TwF2StqSd3ZG5PLHmKQ_X">Mumbai </a>from Karachi and carried out coordinated attacks, killing 166 people and injuring over 300 in November 2008.

The trial, underway in an anti-terrorism court in Pakistan against seven activists, has made little headway in more than 10 years as the Pakistani establishment has been claiming lack of enough evidence against them.&nbsp;

A divisional bench of Islamabad High Court, comprising Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Mohsin Akhter Kiyani, on Tuesday conducted hearing on a petition by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) seeking a stay on anti-terrorism court proceedings.

Seven LeT suspects — Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi, Abdul Wajid, Mazhar Iqbal, Hamad Amin Sadiq, Shahid Jamil Riaz, Jamil Ahmed and Younis Anjum —are facing charges of abetment to murder, attempted murder, planning and executing the Mumbai attack since 2009.

Except Lakhvi, the other six are kept in the high-security Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi.&nbsp;

A Pakistan court heard the 2008 Mumbai attack case to let the prosecutor produce more witnesses. Ten Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists had sailed into Mumbai from Karachi and carried out coordinated attacks, killing 166 people and injuring over 300 in November 2008.

A Pakistan court heard the 2008 Mumbai attack case to let the prosecutor produce more witnesses. Ten Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists had sailed into Mumbai from Karachi and carried out coordinated attacks, killing 166 people and injuring over 300 in November 2008. The trial, underway in an anti-terrorism court in Pakistan against seven activists, has made little headway in more than 10 years as the Pakistani establishment has been claiming lack of enough evidence against them. A divisional bench of Islamabad High Court, comprising Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Mohsin Akhter Kiyani, on Tuesday conducted hearing on a petition by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) seeking a stay on anti-terrorism court proceedings. Seven LeT suspects — Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi, Abdul Wajid, Mazhar Iqbal, Hamad Amin Sadiq, Shahid Jamil Riaz, Jamil Ahmed and Younis Anjum —are facing charges of abetment to murder, attempted murder, planning and executing the Mumbai attack since 2009. Except Lakhvi, the other six are kept in the high-security Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi.

Pakistan court temporarily halts Mumbai attack case hearing

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