Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Friday (Apr 12) sent Bharat Rasthra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha to Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) custody till April 15 over the Delhi excise policy case.

Earlier on Friday, CBI stated that Kavitha did not give satisfactory responses on being questioned about the payment of kickbacks made to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to sway the excise policy for Delhi to the advantage of a liquor lobby.&nbsp;

Special Judge Kaveri Baweja, after hearing arguments of CBI and Kavitha’s counsel, passed the order.

Former Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao's daughter Kavitha was arrested by CBI on Thursday (Apr 11) in Delhi's Tihar Jail where she was imprisoned following her arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the month of March over her alleged involvement in a money laundering case related to the Delhi excise policy scam.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-cbi-arrests-brs-leader-k-kavitha-over-delhi-liquor-policy-scam-710150">Also read: India: CBI arrests BRS leader K Kavitha in connection with Delhi liquor policy scam</a>

CBI remand application stated, "Ms Kavitha Kalvakuntla was required to be arrested in the instant case to conduct her custodial interrogation for confronting her with the evidence and witnesses to unearth the larger conspiracy hatched among the accused/suspect persons regarding formulation and implementation of the Excise Policy, as well as to establish the money trail of ill-gotten money generated and to establish the role of other accused/suspect persons including public servants as well as to unearth the facts which are in her exclusive knowledge."

While seeking Kavitha's custodial remand, CBI said to the court that one of the firms under Aurbindo Group made a payment of Rs 14 crore via a bank transaction in July 2021.&nbsp;

The BRS leader's attorneys opposed CBI's remand application and argued that the arrest by the central probe agency was without any approval, permission or imprimatur of the Court.

"K Kavitha was lying in custody in the PMLA case. This Court is exercising distinct jurisdiction in the capacity of Special Judge (PMLA) vis-a-vis Special Judge (CBI). Both jurisdictions cannot overlap and the CBI cannot use them to violate the procedures established by law," the lawyers submitted.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Friday (Apr 12) sent Bharat Rasthra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha to Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) custody till April 15 over the Delhi excise policy case.

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Friday (Apr 12) sent Bharat Rasthra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha to Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) custody till April 15 over the Delhi excise policy case. Earlier on Friday, CBI stated that Kavitha did not give satisfactory responses on being questioned about the payment of kickbacks made to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to sway the excise policy for Delhi to the advantage of a liquor lobby. Special Judge Kaveri Baweja, after hearing arguments of CBI and Kavitha’s counsel, passed the order. Former Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao's daughter Kavitha was arrested by CBI on Thursday (Apr 11) in Delhi's Tihar Jail where she was imprisoned following her arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the month of March over her alleged involvement in a money laundering case related to the Delhi excise policy scam. Also read: India: CBI arrests BRS leader K Kavitha in connection with Delhi liquor policy scam CBI remand application stated, "Ms Kavitha Kalvakuntla was required to be arrested in the instant case to conduct her custodial interrogation for confronting her with the evidence and witnesses to unearth the larger conspiracy hatched among the accused/suspect persons regarding formulation and implementation of the Excise Policy, as well as to establish the money trail of ill-gotten money generated and to establish the role of other accused/suspect persons including public servants as well as to unearth the facts which are in her exclusive knowledge." While seeking Kavitha's custodial remand, CBI said to the court that one of the firms under Aurbindo Group made a payment of Rs 14 crore via a bank transaction in July 2021. The BRS leader's attorneys opposed CBI's remand application and argued that the arrest by the central probe agency was without any approval, permission or imprimatur of the Court. "K Kavitha was lying in custody in the PMLA case. This Court is exercising distinct jurisdiction in the capacity of Special Judge (PMLA) vis-a-vis Special Judge (CBI). Both jurisdictions cannot overlap and the CBI cannot use them to violate the procedures established by law," the lawyers submitted. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Delhi court sends BRS leader K Kavitha to CBI custody till April 15

In a significant development, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued 27 Bangladeshi fishermen aboard a boat that drifted inside Indian waters,&nbsp;officials said on Friday (Apr 5).

The swift operation took place on Thursday (Apr 4) after the ICG spotted the fishing boat (BFB) Sagar II, adrift inside Indian waters&nbsp;during a patrol at Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Border Line (IMBL).&nbsp;

During the probe it was revealed that the boat's steering gear suffered a breakdown, leaving the fishermen stranded at the sea.

''At about 1130 hrs on April 4, Indian Coast Guard Ship 'Amogh' during a patrol at Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Border Line (IMBL) sighted a Bangladeshi fishing boat (BFB) 'Sagar II' adrift inside Indian waters,'' the ICG said in a statement.

"The boat had a steering gear breakdown for the last two days and had been adrift since then which led to the boat drifting inside Indian waters'', it added.

The Indian Coast Guard's technical team attempted to determine and fix the defect, however, the team observed that the rudder of the boat was "completely damaged" and that its repair could not be done at sea.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaCoastGuard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaCoastGuard</a> Ship Amogh during patrol rescued 27 Bangladeshi fishermen on 4th Apr, adrift near Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) due to machinery breakdown. Rescued Bangladesh boat &amp; crew were handed over to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BCG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BCG</a> ship at IMBL. (1/2) <a href="https://twitter.com/giridhararamane?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@giridhararamane</a> <a href="https://t.co/IalII8J5gS">pic.twitter.com/IalII8J5gS</a>
— Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaCoastGuard/status/1776135407778058667?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-rebuffs-senior-un-officials-free-and-fair-remark-on-elections-in-india-707865">Jaishankar rebuffs senior UN official's 'free and fair' remark on elections in India</a>

''As the sea state and weather conditions were conducive, it was decided that the distressed boat would be towed to the Indo-Bangladesh IMBL and handed over to another Bangladeshi fishing boat operating across IMBL or to Bangladesh Coast Guard Ship by the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Indian Coast Guard and Bangladesh Coast Guard,'' read the statement.

The Indian Coast Guard regional headquarters at Kolkata in the meantime informed the Bangladesh Coast Guard about the situation and also discussed further plan of action, said the officials.

''BCG ship 'Kamaruzzaman' arrived near the IMBL at about 1845 hrs on April 4. ICGS 'Amogh' handed over the 27 Bangladeshi fishermen along with their boat to BCG ship 'Kamaruzzaman','' the statement said.

''The operation reflects the commitment of the Indian Coast Guard towards safeguarding precious lives at sea against all odds. Such successful search and rescue (SAR) operations will not only strengthen the regional SAR structure but also enhance international cooperation with neighbouring countries. This is in keeping with the motto of the Indian Coast Guard 'Vayam Rakshamah' which means 'We Protect','' it added.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a significant development, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued 27 Bangladeshi fishermen aboard a boat that drifted inside Indian waters, officials said on Friday (Apr 5).

In a significant development, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued 27 Bangladeshi fishermen aboard a boat that drifted inside Indian waters, officials said on Friday (Apr 5). The swift operation took place on Thursday (Apr 4) after the ICG spotted the fishing boat (BFB) Sagar II, adrift inside Indian waters during a patrol at Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Border Line (IMBL). During the probe it was revealed that the boat's steering gear suffered a breakdown, leaving the fishermen stranded at the sea. ''At about 1130 hrs on April 4, Indian Coast Guard Ship 'Amogh' during a patrol at Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Border Line (IMBL) sighted a Bangladeshi fishing boat (BFB) 'Sagar II' adrift inside Indian waters,'' the ICG said in a statement. "The boat had a steering gear breakdown for the last two days and had been adrift since then which led to the boat drifting inside Indian waters'', it added. The Indian Coast Guard's technical team attempted to determine and fix the defect, however, the team observed that the rudder of the boat was "completely damaged" and that its repair could not be done at sea. @IndiaCoastGuard Ship Amogh during patrol rescued 27 Bangladeshi fishermen on 4th Apr, adrift near Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) due to machinery breakdown. Rescued Bangladesh boat & crew were handed over to #BCG ship at IMBL. (1/2) @giridhararamane pic.twitter.com/IalII8J5gS — Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) April 5, 2024 × Also read: Jaishankar rebuffs senior UN official's 'free and fair' remark on elections in India ''As the sea state and weather conditions were conducive, it was decided that the distressed boat would be towed to the Indo-Bangladesh IMBL and handed over to another Bangladeshi fishing boat operating across IMBL or to Bangladesh Coast Guard Ship by the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Indian Coast Guard and Bangladesh Coast Guard,'' read the statement. The Indian Coast Guard regional headquarters at Kolkata in the meantime informed the Bangladesh Coast Guard about the situation and also discussed further plan of action, said the officials. ''BCG ship 'Kamaruzzaman' arrived near the IMBL at about 1845 hrs on April 4. ICGS 'Amogh' handed over the 27 Bangladeshi fishermen along with their boat to BCG ship 'Kamaruzzaman','' the statement said. ''The operation reflects the commitment of the Indian Coast Guard towards safeguarding precious lives at sea against all odds. Such successful search and rescue (SAR) operations will not only strengthen the regional SAR structure but also enhance international cooperation with neighbouring countries. This is in keeping with the motto of the Indian Coast Guard 'Vayam Rakshamah' which means 'We Protect','' it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Coast Guard rescues 27 Bangladeshi fishermen during patrol

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's wife Sunita on Monday (Apr 1) hit out at the Centre stating that "the people of the country will answer to this dictatorship."

"If the investigation was over, then why has he been sent to jail? The people of the country will answer to this dictatorship," she said.

Her remarks came after the Rouse Avenue court extended the AAP supremo's judicial custody till April 15.

<h2>'Rabri Devi in making'</h2>

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri took a jibe at Sunita Kejriwal and compared her with Lalu Yadav's wife, Rabri Devi, who took over as the Bihar CM when her husband was imprisoned in a corruption case.

"A Rabri Devi is in the making. I have already said 3-4 times in the past 7-10 days that 'Rabri Devi' will come forward. I mean to say that Sunita Kejriwal will come forward now," Puri said.

He also took a dig at the AAP chief stating that he could now conduct cabinet meetings inside the jail with his fellow party leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/did-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-name-two-aap-ministers-in-liquor-policy-case-706549">Did Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal name two AAP ministers in liquor policy case?</a>

"Can any government-run from behind the bars?... Here is a government which has three ministers already behind bars. They have a quorum, they can have cabinet meetings behind bars," he said.&nbsp;

The latest hearing in the Delhi Court took place after Kejriwal's previous duration of custody granted to the Enforcement Directorate came to an end.&nbsp;

Kejriwal was produced in the court of Special Judge Kaveri Baweja.

The ED sought a 15-day custody and told Judge Baweja that they may require further custody at a later date.

The probe agency told the court that the Aam Aadmi Party chief was "non-cooperative" during the custody and showed an "evasive" attitude with his replies.&nbsp;

"He has deliberately not given passwords to the electronic devices," Additional Solicitor General S. V. Raju, appearing for the ED said.

Speaking to reporters before entering court, the AAP leader said, "Whatever the prime minister is doing (referring to his arrest) is not good for the country".

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's wife Sunita on Monday (Apr 1) hit out at the Centre stating that "the people of the country will answer to this dictatorship.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's wife Sunita on Monday (Apr 1) hit out at the Centre stating that "the people of the country will answer to this dictatorship." "If the investigation was over, then why has he been sent to jail? The people of the country will answer to this dictatorship," she said. Her remarks came after the Rouse Avenue court extended the AAP supremo's judicial custody till April 15. 'Rabri Devi in making' The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri took a jibe at Sunita Kejriwal and compared her with Lalu Yadav's wife, Rabri Devi, who took over as the Bihar CM when her husband was imprisoned in a corruption case. "A Rabri Devi is in the making. I have already said 3-4 times in the past 7-10 days that 'Rabri Devi' will come forward. I mean to say that Sunita Kejriwal will come forward now," Puri said. He also took a dig at the AAP chief stating that he could now conduct cabinet meetings inside the jail with his fellow party leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh. Also read: Did Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal name two AAP ministers in liquor policy case? "Can any government-run from behind the bars?... Here is a government which has three ministers already behind bars. They have a quorum, they can have cabinet meetings behind bars," he said. The latest hearing in the Delhi Court took place after Kejriwal's previous duration of custody granted to the Enforcement Directorate came to an end. Kejriwal was produced in the court of Special Judge Kaveri Baweja. The ED sought a 15-day custody and told Judge Baweja that they may require further custody at a later date. The probe agency told the court that the Aam Aadmi Party chief was "non-cooperative" during the custody and showed an "evasive" attitude with his replies. "He has deliberately not given passwords to the electronic devices," Additional Solicitor General S. V. Raju, appearing for the ED said. Speaking to reporters before entering court, the AAP leader said, "Whatever the prime minister is doing (referring to his arrest) is not good for the country". (With inputs from agencies)

BJP hits out at Sunita Kejriwal as she makes ‘dictatorship’ remark; ‘Rabri Devi in making’

A leopard attacked at least five people in a village in North Delhi's Wazirabad on Monday. According to the officials, the leopard attack in the national capital triggered panic among locals.

A leopard attacked at least five people in a village in North Delhi's Wazirabad on Monday. According to the officials, the leopard attack in the national capital triggered panic among locals. Delhi Fire Service Chief Atul Garg later informed that they had rescued the leopard. A video of the leopard has gone viral on social media platforms. In the video, the leopard can be seen jumping from the terrace of a house in Jagatpur village early morning on Monday. The animal barged into the next building. There it was locked in a room, the officials said. There are videos of the leopard on social media, where some people are chasing the leopard and others are running in panic. STORY | Leopard barges into house in Delhi's Roop Nagar, 5 injured READ: https://t.co/EbH7OulTMV VIDEO: (Source: Third Party) pic.twitter.com/7bJRdu08YH — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 1, 2024 × Delhi Fire Service stated that they received information about the incident at around 06:20 am IST and they immediately dispatched two fire tenders to the spot. "With the help of the locals, the officials locked the leopard in a room. The injured were sent to a hospital," Delhi Fire Service (DFS) Chief Atul Garg said. A local said that the leopard tried to attack several people and injured some. Another village resident added that the village is surrounded by a jungle and there is no fencing or other kind of security. ALSO READ | Delhi court extends CM Kejriwal's judicial custody till April 15 in alleged liquor scam case Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) MK Meena said that the officials received a call from Jagatpur village about a leopard entering a house. The local police reached the spot and the same information was given to the forest department. Three out of five injured people during the leopard attack have been identified as Mahender, Akash, and Rampal. The DCP added that seven forest department personnel, a team from the Delhi Fire Department, and the local police are currently present at the spot. Leopard sightings are rare in Delhi. In December 2023, a leopard was sighted at Sainik Farms in South Delhi. While the forest department suspected that the leopard had returned to Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary, it was killed by a car on National Highway 44 near Khatushyam Temple in North Delhi's Alipur. (With inputs from agencies)

Leopard attacks five in Delhi's Wazirabad; triggers panic

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Thursday (Mar 28) extended Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Enforcement Directorate custody by four more days, i.e. till April 1 in the excise policy case.

The central probe agency had sought a seven-day extension of the Delhi chief minister's custodial remand at the court stating that they would&nbsp;be requiring&nbsp;further&nbsp;interrogation of Kejriwal in order to confront him with a set of other people.

However, the court stated that the AAP chief have&nbsp;to be produced before it on Monday (Apr 1) at 11 am.

He was produced in the court before special Judge Kaveri Baweja who extended the ED remand period until April 1, 2024.

The investigation agency in its renewed remand plea stated that Kejriwal's statements were recorded on five days during his custodial interrogation and he was "giving evasive replies".

It said that during the remand, the statements of the other three persons were also recorded.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-claims-ed-trying-to-crush-aap-top-quotes-from-court-hearing-705163">Arvind Kejriwal claims ED trying to crush AAP, top quotes from court hearing</a>

<h2>'I was arrested, but no court has proven me guilty yet,' says Kejriwal</h2>

The Delhi chief minister addressed the court during the hearing and said, "CBI lodged an FIR on August 17, 2022, ED lodged ECIR on August 22, 2022."

"I was arrested, but no court has proven me guilty yet. CBI filed 31,000 pages and ED has filed 25,000 pages related to this matter. Even if you read them together, I would like to ask why have I been arrested? My name came to light only in four statements of four people," Kejriwal added.

"Are these four statements made by different people sufficient to arrest a sitting Chief Minister?" he asked referring to the statements of C Arvind, Raghav Magunta and his father&nbsp;Sharath Reddy.

He then alleged that people were being forced to turn&nbsp;approvers in the case and&nbsp;change their statements further claiming that there was a political conspiracy behind his arrest.

"You may keep me in remand as long as you like...I am ready for investigation," the Delhi Chief Minister said.

He also alleged that the ED's agenda was to crush his party.

"It's being alleged that 100 crore was in Liquor scam...Justice Sanjiv Khanna said that the money trail is not yet traced," Kejriwal said.

"The real liquor scam begins post the ED investigation. The motive of the ED is to crush the Aam Aadmi Party," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Thursday (Mar 28) extended Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Enforcement Directorate custody by four more days, i.

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Thursday (Mar 28) extended Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Enforcement Directorate custody by four more days, i.e. till April 1 in the excise policy case. The central probe agency had sought a seven-day extension of the Delhi chief minister's custodial remand at the court stating that they would be requiring further interrogation of Kejriwal in order to confront him with a set of other people. However, the court stated that the AAP chief have to be produced before it on Monday (Apr 1) at 11 am. He was produced in the court before special Judge Kaveri Baweja who extended the ED remand period until April 1, 2024. The investigation agency in its renewed remand plea stated that Kejriwal's statements were recorded on five days during his custodial interrogation and he was "giving evasive replies". It said that during the remand, the statements of the other three persons were also recorded. Also read: Arvind Kejriwal claims ED trying to crush AAP, top quotes from court hearing 'I was arrested, but no court has proven me guilty yet,' says Kejriwal The Delhi chief minister addressed the court during the hearing and said, "CBI lodged an FIR on August 17, 2022, ED lodged ECIR on August 22, 2022." "I was arrested, but no court has proven me guilty yet. CBI filed 31,000 pages and ED has filed 25,000 pages related to this matter. Even if you read them together, I would like to ask why have I been arrested? My name came to light only in four statements of four people," Kejriwal added. "Are these four statements made by different people sufficient to arrest a sitting Chief Minister?" he asked referring to the statements of C Arvind, Raghav Magunta and his father Sharath Reddy. He then alleged that people were being forced to turn approvers in the case and change their statements further claiming that there was a political conspiracy behind his arrest. "You may keep me in remand as long as you like...I am ready for investigation," the Delhi Chief Minister said. He also alleged that the ED's agenda was to crush his party. "It's being alleged that 100 crore was in Liquor scam...Justice Sanjiv Khanna said that the money trail is not yet traced," Kejriwal said. "The real liquor scam begins post the ED investigation. The motive of the ED is to crush the Aam Aadmi Party," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi court extends Arvind Kejriwal's ED custody till April 1

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with the excise policy case on Thursday (Mar 21).

The move came hours after the Delhi High Court refused interim protection from coercive action to Kejriwal stating that at this stage the court wasn't inclined to grant interim relief.

Immediately after the arrest, AAP leader and Delhi Minister Atishi took to her official X account and stated that the party had moved the Supreme Court to quash Kejriwal's arrest, seeking an urgent hearing.

"We have moved the Supreme Court for quashing the arrest of Delhi CM @ArvindKejriwal by ED. We have asked for an urgent hearing by the Supreme Court tonight itself," Atishi said in a post on X.

<h2>'Will run government from jail'</h2>

Earlier, Atishi had said that AAP's national convenor would run the government from prison and that he would remain the Chief Minister of Delhi.

"We have received news that ED has arrested Arvind Kejriwal... We have always said that Arvind Kejriwal will run the govt from jail. He will remain the CM of Delhi. We have filed a case in the Supreme Court. Our lawyers are reaching SC. We will demand SC have an urgent hearing tonight," she said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/excise-policy-case-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-moves-fresh-plea-in-delhi-hc-702485">Excise policy case: Delhi HC rejects CM Arvind Kejriwal's plea to protect him from getting arrested</a>

<h2>Timeline of events in the excise policy case</h2>

- November 2021 
Delhi government implemented a new excise policy

- July 8, 2022 
The Chief Secretary of Delhi reported violations in the policy

- July 22, 2022 
The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi recommended a CBI investigation into the breach of rules

- August 19, 2022 
CBI raided the then Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia's residence

- August 22, 2022 
The Enforcement Directorate filed a money laundering case on liquor policy

- September, 2022 
AAP communications head Vijay Nair was arrested by CBI

- March 2023 
ED arrested Manish Sisodia

- October 2023 
ED arrested AAP leader Sanjay Singh 
&nbsp; 
- October 2023 
ED sent the first summons to Kejriwal

- March 16, 2024 
ED arrested Bharat Rashtra Samithi leader K Kavitha&nbsp;

- March 21, 2024 
Kejriwal skipped the ED&nbsp;summon&nbsp;for the ninth time in the excise policy case. Hours later the Delhi HC denied him interim relief in the excise policy case following which he was arrested.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with the excise policy case on Thursday (Mar 21). The move came hours after the Delhi High Court refused interim protection from coercive action to Kejriwal stating that at this stage the court wasn't inclined to grant interim relief.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with the excise policy case on Thursday (Mar 21). The move came hours after the Delhi High Court refused interim protection from coercive action to Kejriwal stating that at this stage the court wasn't inclined to grant interim relief. Immediately after the arrest, AAP leader and Delhi Minister Atishi took to her official X account and stated that the party had moved the Supreme Court to quash Kejriwal's arrest, seeking an urgent hearing. "We have moved the Supreme Court for quashing the arrest of Delhi CM @ArvindKejriwal by ED. We have asked for an urgent hearing by the Supreme Court tonight itself," Atishi said in a post on X. 'Will run government from jail' Earlier, Atishi had said that AAP's national convenor would run the government from prison and that he would remain the Chief Minister of Delhi. "We have received news that ED has arrested Arvind Kejriwal... We have always said that Arvind Kejriwal will run the govt from jail. He will remain the CM of Delhi. We have filed a case in the Supreme Court. Our lawyers are reaching SC. We will demand SC have an urgent hearing tonight," she said. Also read: Excise policy case: Delhi HC rejects CM Arvind Kejriwal's plea to protect him from getting arrested Timeline of events in the excise policy case - November 2021 Delhi government implemented a new excise policy - July 8, 2022 The Chief Secretary of Delhi reported violations in the policy - July 22, 2022 The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi recommended a CBI investigation into the breach of rules - August 19, 2022 CBI raided the then Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia's residence - August 22, 2022 The Enforcement Directorate filed a money laundering case on liquor policy - September, 2022 AAP communications head Vijay Nair was arrested by CBI - March 2023 ED arrested Manish Sisodia - October 2023 ED arrested AAP leader Sanjay Singh - October 2023 ED sent the first summons to Kejriwal - March 16, 2024 ED arrested Bharat Rashtra Samithi leader K Kavitha - March 21, 2024 Kejriwal skipped the ED summon for the ninth time in the excise policy case. Hours later the Delhi HC denied him interim relief in the excise policy case following which he was arrested. (With inputs from agencies)

ED arrests Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal; here's a timeline of events in excise policy case

The Gurugram Police in India's north-Indian state of Haryana arrested a man who allegedly killed his live-in partner after she refused to prepare egg curry for him.

The incident came to light after the woman's dead body was spotted in an under-construction building in Chauma village, the authorities said on Saturday (Mar 16).

The accused, identified as Lallan Yadav, aged 35, during police interrogation, admitted to having killed his partner under the influence of alcohol.

The police said that the man resorted to violence and hit his partner with a belt and hammer after the deceased, identified as Anjali, aged 32, refused to make egg curry.

Lallan Yadav, a native of Aurahi village in Bihar's Madhepura district, was arrested by a team of Palam Vihar Police Station from Delhi's Sarai Kale Khan area after the caretaker of the building filed a police complaint on spotting the body.

Anjali, a ragpicker, was found dead on Wednesday in the under-construction house in Chauma.

The police, as per news agency PTI reports, said that both Yadav and Anjali were brought to the site on March 10 from the Gurugram bus stand.

When hiring the two, Yadav and Anjali did not disclose their correct names, addresses, and IDs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-india-shopkeeper-attacked-alleges-asked-to-stop-bhajan-for-azaan-701539">India shopkeeper attacked in Bengaluru, alleges ‘asked to stop bhajan for azaan’</a>

Yadav had introduced Anjali to the homeowners as his wife.

During his questioning with the police, he revealed that his wife had succumbed to a snake bite nearly six years ago, after which he moved to Delhi.

He then said that he met Anjali about seven months ago and started living with her while the two worked as labourers, said the police.

"After killing her, he fled. We have recovered the hammer and belt which were used in the murder and are questioning the accused," Naveen Kumar, ACP, Palam Vihar, said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Gurugram Police in India's north-Indian state of Haryana arrested a man who allegedly killed his live-in partner after she refused to prepare egg curry for him.

The Gurugram Police in India's north-Indian state of Haryana arrested a man who allegedly killed his live-in partner after she refused to prepare egg curry for him. The incident came to light after the woman's dead body was spotted in an under-construction building in Chauma village, the authorities said on Saturday (Mar 16). The accused, identified as Lallan Yadav, aged 35, during police interrogation, admitted to having killed his partner under the influence of alcohol. The police said that the man resorted to violence and hit his partner with a belt and hammer after the deceased, identified as Anjali, aged 32, refused to make egg curry. Lallan Yadav, a native of Aurahi village in Bihar's Madhepura district, was arrested by a team of Palam Vihar Police Station from Delhi's Sarai Kale Khan area after the caretaker of the building filed a police complaint on spotting the body. Anjali, a ragpicker, was found dead on Wednesday in the under-construction house in Chauma. The police, as per news agency PTI reports, said that both Yadav and Anjali were brought to the site on March 10 from the Gurugram bus stand. When hiring the two, Yadav and Anjali did not disclose their correct names, addresses, and IDs. Also read: India shopkeeper attacked in Bengaluru, alleges ‘asked to stop bhajan for azaan’ Yadav had introduced Anjali to the homeowners as his wife. During his questioning with the police, he revealed that his wife had succumbed to a snake bite nearly six years ago, after which he moved to Delhi. He then said that he met Anjali about seven months ago and started living with her while the two worked as labourers, said the police. "After killing her, he fled. We have recovered the hammer and belt which were used in the murder and are questioning the accused," Naveen Kumar, ACP, Palam Vihar, said. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Man thrashes live-in partner to death over refusing to make egg curry

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal along with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday (March 8) launched the party's Lok Sabha election&nbsp;campaign&nbsp;slogan “Sansad mein bhi Kejriwal, toh Dilli hogi aur khush haal (Delhi will be more prosperous with Kejriwal in Parliament)”.

While launching the campaign at the AAP’s headquarters in New Delhi, Kejriwal slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party, the Indian government and the Delhi Lt Governor&nbsp;of stalling the works of his government.

He then appealed to the voters to ensure the victory of all seven candidates of the AAP-Congress combine in Delhi.

The AAP is a member of the INDIA bloc which has positioned itself to take on the BJP in the upcoming April–May Lok Sabha elections.

While AAP is contesting from four of Delhi’s seven Lok Sabha seats, the Congress will field candidates from three.

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VIDEO | Here’s what Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal (<a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArvindKejriwal</a>) said at the launch of the party’s campaign ‘Sansad mein bhi Kejriwal, toh Delhi hogi aur khush-haal’ for Lok Sabha Elections 2024. 
 
“AAP’s Delhi Lok Sabha campaign is being launched today. Our slogan is ‘Sansad mein… <a href="https://t.co/X5YI04HX2J">pic.twitter.com/X5YI04HX2J</a>
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&nbsp;

“I have made all efforts to serve the people of Delhi who are my family, without considering myself as the chief minister,” Kejriwal, the AAP’s national convenor, said.

“Our slogan is ‘Sansad mein bhi Kejriwal, toh Dilli hogi aur khush haal (Delhi will be more prosperous with Kejriwal in Parliament)’,” the Delhi CM added.

He further alleged that the BJP stalls every initiative launched by the AAP government.

“They hate you because you elected and brought an ordinary man to power in Delhi. They demolished Mohalla Clinics with bulldozers, they stopped door-to-door ration delivery, tests and medicines in hospitals,” he alleged.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-releases-first-list-of-39-candidates-for-lok-sabha-elections-rahul-gandhi-to-contest-from-wayanad-698114">Congress releases first list of 39 candidates for Lok Sabha elections</a>

<h2>'Kejriwal's rule marked by loot and corruption, says BJP&nbsp;Delhi chief</h2>

After the launch of the campaign by Delhi Chief Minister Kejriwal, BJP’s Delhi chief Virendra Sachdeva took a dig at the AAP chief stating that the party's apt slogan would be “nine-year rule of Kejriwal marked by loot and corruption, rendering Delhi miserable”.

“The people of Delhi, Punjab and Gujarat will reject Kejriwal in such a way that even the AAP’s national status will be snatched,” he said.

The AAP has entered into a seat-sharing&nbsp;deal for Delhi, Gujarat and Haryana with the Congress party. Whereas in Punjab, both parties have agreed to contest the elections independently.

(With inputs from agencies)

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal along with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday (March 8) launched the party's Lok Sabha election campaign slogan “Sansad mein bhi Kejriwal, toh Dilli hogi aur khush haal (Delhi will be more prosperous with Kejriwal in Parliament)”.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal along with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday (March 8) launched the party's Lok Sabha election campaign slogan “Sansad mein bhi Kejriwal, toh Dilli hogi aur khush haal (Delhi will be more prosperous with Kejriwal in Parliament)”. While launching the campaign at the AAP’s headquarters in New Delhi, Kejriwal slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party, the Indian government and the Delhi Lt Governor of stalling the works of his government. He then appealed to the voters to ensure the victory of all seven candidates of the AAP-Congress combine in Delhi. The AAP is a member of the INDIA bloc which has positioned itself to take on the BJP in the upcoming April–May Lok Sabha elections. While AAP is contesting from four of Delhi’s seven Lok Sabha seats, the Congress will field candidates from three. VIDEO | Here’s what Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) said at the launch of the party’s campaign ‘Sansad mein bhi Kejriwal, toh Delhi hogi aur khush-haal’ for Lok Sabha Elections 2024. “AAP’s Delhi Lok Sabha campaign is being launched today. Our slogan is ‘Sansad mein… pic.twitter.com/X5YI04HX2J — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 8, 2024 × “I have made all efforts to serve the people of Delhi who are my family, without considering myself as the chief minister,” Kejriwal, the AAP’s national convenor, said. “Our slogan is ‘Sansad mein bhi Kejriwal, toh Dilli hogi aur khush haal (Delhi will be more prosperous with Kejriwal in Parliament)’,” the Delhi CM added. He further alleged that the BJP stalls every initiative launched by the AAP government. “They hate you because you elected and brought an ordinary man to power in Delhi. They demolished Mohalla Clinics with bulldozers, they stopped door-to-door ration delivery, tests and medicines in hospitals,” he alleged. Also read: Congress releases first list of 39 candidates for Lok Sabha elections 'Kejriwal's rule marked by loot and corruption, says BJP Delhi chief After the launch of the campaign by Delhi Chief Minister Kejriwal, BJP’s Delhi chief Virendra Sachdeva took a dig at the AAP chief stating that the party's apt slogan would be “nine-year rule of Kejriwal marked by loot and corruption, rendering Delhi miserable”. “The people of Delhi, Punjab and Gujarat will reject Kejriwal in such a way that even the AAP’s national status will be snatched,” he said. The AAP has entered into a seat-sharing deal for Delhi, Gujarat and Haryana with the Congress party. Whereas in Punjab, both parties have agreed to contest the elections independently. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections: Arvind Kejriwal launches AAP's poll campaign in Delhi

Amid the ongoing farmers' protest in India, the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Thursday (March 7) ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident of farmer Shubhkaran Singh's death.

Singh died last month during a skirmish that broke out between protesting farmers and the Haryana security personnel at Khanauri border.

A division bench of Acting Chief Justice G S Sandhawalia and Justice Lapita Banerji was hearing petitions related to the farmers' protest.

Advocate Uday Partap Singh, who is also a petitioner in the matter, stated that the court ordered the judicial probe into Shubhkaran Singh's death.

He added that the investigation into the matter will be conducted by a retired HC judge and two ADGP rank officers of Punjab and Haryana.

Twenty-one-year-old Singh died and 12 police personnel suffered injuries in clashes at Khanauri border point on the Punjab-Haryana border on February 21.

The incident occurred when security personnel prevented several protesting farmers,&nbsp;attempting to head towards barricades, from crossing the state border.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-protest-india-haryana-government-says-will-cancel-visa-passports-of-violent-demonstrators-695199">Also read:&nbsp;India farmers' protest: Haryana government says will cancel visa, passports of 'violent' demonstrators</a>

<h2>Punjab police register FIR on farmer Shubhkaran Singh's death</h2>

Punjab police registered a zero FIR on Feb 29 in the case of Singh's death.&nbsp;

Punjab IGP Sukhchain Singh Gill stated that the probe will proceed as per the law after consulting with the legal experts.

"In the matter of Shubhkaran (Singh), after consulting the legal experts, the Punjab Police has registered a zero FIR. Further investigation will be done as per the law. His family is performing his last rites today. Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann provided compensation of Rs 1 crore to the family and a daughter in the family is being given the job of a constable," said Gill.

<h2>Farmers resume 'Delhi Chalo' March</h2>

The farmers resumed the 'Delhi Chalo' march on Wednesday (Mar 6) in a bid to amplify their demands over various issues, including Minimum Support Price (MSP) assurance, and relief from debt burden, among others.

Dozens of them were detained en route to New Delhi and were stopped by police about 200 km (125 miles) north of the capital.

Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political), or United Farmers' Front, released a statement saying that the farmers had begun proceeding towards Delhi but were stopped by police in some states, according to news agency Reuters.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the ongoing farmers' protest in India, the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Thursday (March 7) ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident of farmer Shubhkaran Singh's death.

Amid the ongoing farmers' protest in India, the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Thursday (March 7) ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident of farmer Shubhkaran Singh's death. Singh died last month during a skirmish that broke out between protesting farmers and the Haryana security personnel at Khanauri border. A division bench of Acting Chief Justice G S Sandhawalia and Justice Lapita Banerji was hearing petitions related to the farmers' protest. Advocate Uday Partap Singh, who is also a petitioner in the matter, stated that the court ordered the judicial probe into Shubhkaran Singh's death. He added that the investigation into the matter will be conducted by a retired HC judge and two ADGP rank officers of Punjab and Haryana. Twenty-one-year-old Singh died and 12 police personnel suffered injuries in clashes at Khanauri border point on the Punjab-Haryana border on February 21. The incident occurred when security personnel prevented several protesting farmers, attempting to head towards barricades, from crossing the state border. Also read: India farmers' protest: Haryana government says will cancel visa, passports of 'violent' demonstrators Punjab police register FIR on farmer Shubhkaran Singh's death Punjab police registered a zero FIR on Feb 29 in the case of Singh's death. Punjab IGP Sukhchain Singh Gill stated that the probe will proceed as per the law after consulting with the legal experts. "In the matter of Shubhkaran (Singh), after consulting the legal experts, the Punjab Police has registered a zero FIR. Further investigation will be done as per the law. His family is performing his last rites today. Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann provided compensation of Rs 1 crore to the family and a daughter in the family is being given the job of a constable," said Gill. Farmers resume 'Delhi Chalo' March The farmers resumed the 'Delhi Chalo' march on Wednesday (Mar 6) in a bid to amplify their demands over various issues, including Minimum Support Price (MSP) assurance, and relief from debt burden, among others. Dozens of them were detained en route to New Delhi and were stopped by police about 200 km (125 miles) north of the capital. Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political), or United Farmers' Front, released a statement saying that the farmers had begun proceeding towards Delhi but were stopped by police in some states, according to news agency Reuters. (With inputs from agencies)

India farmers' protest: Punjab & Haryana HC orders judicial inquiry into death of farmer Shubhkaran Singh

Pakistan, Afghanistan and parts of northwest India are experiencing an unusually cold March. Heavy rains and unexpected snowfall hit remote areas of Pakistan over the weekend, killing at least 35 people and injuring many.

Pakistan, Afghanistan and parts of northwest India are experiencing an unusually cold March. Heavy rains and unexpected snowfall hit remote areas of Pakistan over the weekend, killing at least 35 people and injuring many. Among the fatalities, there were 22 children, crushed under landslides that destroyed their houses. According to the disaster management authorities, the harsh weather conditions in Pakistan's northern and western regions blocked several roads and buried hundreds of homes. In Afghanistan, at least 39 people died and more than 30 suffered injuries across different provinces as heavy showers and snowfall hit several regions. The sudden snowfall typically has shocked weather experts as weather in Pakistan is usually mild in March. Mushtaq Ali Shah, a former director of Pakistan's meteorological department, connected the abnormal weather conditions to climate change. A westerly disturbance has been moving across Afghanistan, Pakistan and northwest India in the last few days, making the region colder than expected. Many places in these regions are experiencing heavy snow and torrential rains. In a weekly forecast, Pakistan's meteorological department said that most parts of the country will have "mainly cold and dry weather, while some parts of Balochistan and Kashim could expect "snowfall over hills". While summer has already arrived in India's southern parts, hot weather seems to be taking its sweet time to reach the northern half of the country. Northwest India Weather Forecast In northwest India, March generally serves as a transition period, allowing people to ease into the fiery depths of the Indian summer after winter. However, this year, regions like Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and some parts of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, might witness daytime temperatures hover at four to eight degrees Celsius below normal until Thursday (Mar 7). ALSO READ | India: Farmers resume 'Dilli Chalo' march, police boost surveillance on borders The India Meteorological Department (IMD) stated in a weather forecast, "A Western Disturbance as a trough in middle tropospheric westerlies runs roughly along Long 60 degree East to the north of Lat 30 degrees North. Under its influence; isolated to scattered light/moderate rainfall/snowfall likely over Jammu-Kashmir-Ladakh-Gilgit-Baltistan-Mazaffarabad, Himachal Pradesh and isolated rainfall/snowfall likely over Uttarakhand during 06th-07th March 2024." IMD has also warned that thunderstorms and lightning are very likely at isolated places over Jammu-Kashmir-Ladakh-Gilgit-Baltistan-Muzaffarabad and Himachal Pradesh. In Delhi, the country's national capital, people woke up to chill in the air on Wednesday as the minimum temperature dropped to nine degrees Celsius in the last 24 hours. IMD has predicted a partly cloudy sky over the next few days with minimum temperature ranging between 10 to 13 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, the maximum temperature will remain between 23 to 30 degrees Celsius. (With inputs from agencies)

Unexpected snowfall takes several lives in Pakistan, Afghanistan; Northwest India shivers in March

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party has been given a deadline by the Supreme Court to vacate its headquarters which stands on the plot of land allotted to the High Court.

The apex court has directed the party to vacate the place by June 15.

Taking into consideration the upcoming general election, a bench led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud also allowed AAP to apply to the Land and Development Office of the Government of India for allotment of alternate land in accordance with the law in the meantime.

"In view of the impending general elections, we grant time until June 15, 2024, to vacate the premises," the court said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-kejriwal-agrees-to-cooperate-with-ed-after-skipping-eight-summons-in-a-row-696339">Delhi CM Kejriwal agrees to cooperate with ED after skipping eight summons in a row</a>

<h2>Respect&nbsp;SC's order to vacate the Delhi office, says AAP</h2>

The party released a statement saying that it respected the court's order to vacate its offices in Delhi's Rouse Avenue further expressing hope that it would be allotted land in the same location soon.

Priyanka Kakkar, the AAP's chief national spokesperson, said, "We respect the Supreme Court. The apex court has also directed that the Centre's L&amp;DO (Land and Development Office) allot an alternative land for the AAP's office as soon as possible."&nbsp;

"We hope that the BJP will not do any regressive, discriminatory or dirty politics and, without further delay, allot land for the AAP's office premises at the same location where all the other national parties have been allotted land for office use in Delhi," Kakkar said.

At the time of the hearing in the court, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted that the Aam Aadmi Party had encroached on the land since 2017.

The court also underscored that the AAP was not a lawful occupant of the land after 2017.

However, senior Abhishek Singhvi, appearing for the national capital's ruling party, submitted that the AAP was one of the six national parties and is entitled to land in the New Delhi municipal area, under its status.

"They are telling us as a national party we get nothing. I'm given (land in) Badarpur while everyone else is in better places. A particular government does not want me to be flourishing and working," Singhvi said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party has been given a deadline by the Supreme Court to vacate its headquarters which stands on the plot of land allotted to the High Court.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party has been given a deadline by the Supreme Court to vacate its headquarters which stands on the plot of land allotted to the High Court. The apex court has directed the party to vacate the place by June 15. Taking into consideration the upcoming general election, a bench led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud also allowed AAP to apply to the Land and Development Office of the Government of India for allotment of alternate land in accordance with the law in the meantime. "In view of the impending general elections, we grant time until June 15, 2024, to vacate the premises," the court said. Also read: Delhi CM Kejriwal agrees to cooperate with ED after skipping eight summons in a row Respect SC's order to vacate the Delhi office, says AAP The party released a statement saying that it respected the court's order to vacate its offices in Delhi's Rouse Avenue further expressing hope that it would be allotted land in the same location soon. Priyanka Kakkar, the AAP's chief national spokesperson, said, "We respect the Supreme Court. The apex court has also directed that the Centre's L&DO (Land and Development Office) allot an alternative land for the AAP's office as soon as possible." "We hope that the BJP will not do any regressive, discriminatory or dirty politics and, without further delay, allot land for the AAP's office premises at the same location where all the other national parties have been allotted land for office use in Delhi," Kakkar said. At the time of the hearing in the court, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted that the Aam Aadmi Party had encroached on the land since 2017. The court also underscored that the AAP was not a lawful occupant of the land after 2017. However, senior Abhishek Singhvi, appearing for the national capital's ruling party, submitted that the AAP was one of the six national parties and is entitled to land in the New Delhi municipal area, under its status. "They are telling us as a national party we get nothing. I'm given (land in) Badarpur while everyone else is in better places. A particular government does not want me to be flourishing and working," Singhvi said. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Supreme Court orders Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party to vacate headquarters

A portion of the concrete roof of southwest Delhi's Ambience Mall collapsed in the wee hours of Monday (March 4). Fortunately, there were no casualties reported in the incident.

The police, as per news agency PTI reports, said that the roof of the building partially collapsed in the mall’s central hall at around 12.45 am and the debris scattered all around the railings and the escalators.

The videos of the incident doing rounds on social media show the area engulfed in cloud of dust after the incident took place.

The police said that an inquiry was launched into the incident.

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😱😱😱😱 roof of ambience mall in Vasant Kunj collapsed during maintenance work 😱😱😱😱 new fear unlocked. <a href="https://t.co/oWx00zLs8C">pic.twitter.com/oWx00zLs8C</a>
— Nirwa Mehta (@nirwamehta) <a href="https://twitter.com/nirwamehta/status/1764643661088759843?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

This comes a day after two men lost their lives after being allegedly hit by an iron grille inside a shopping mall in Noida Extension.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/video-shows-exact-moment-when-massive-boulder-crush-two-trucks-696449">Video shows exact moment when massive boulders crushed two trucks</a>

The grille fell on the duo from the fifth floor while they were walking towards an escalator on the ground floor of Galaxy Blue Sapphire Mall.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Uttar Pradesh: Two men died after a ceiling grill fell on them at Galaxy Blue Sapphire Mall in Greater Noida. 
 
Police present on the spot. <a href="https://t.co/NgPOmvsIwT">https://t.co/NgPOmvsIwT</a> <a href="https://t.co/Hw50Lq5Q9G">pic.twitter.com/Hw50Lq5Q9G</a>
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&nbsp;

Both victims, aged 35, died on the spot. They were residents of the Vijay Nagar area in adjoining Ghaziabad district, Additional DCP (Central Noida) Hridesh Katheriya said.

“The local Bisrakh police station was informed by Yatharth Hospital that two people died in Blue Sapphire Mall after an iron grille fell on them from the fifth floor. A police team immediately reached the spot,” he said.

The deceased have been identified as Harendra Bhati and Shakeel, said the officer.

Katheriya further said that the families of the victims were contacted and that&nbsp;legal action would be initiated in the case once a complaint was received from them.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A portion of the concrete roof of southwest Delhi's Ambience Mall collapsed in the wee hours of Monday (March 4). Fortunately, there were no casualties reported in the incident.

A portion of the concrete roof of southwest Delhi's Ambience Mall collapsed in the wee hours of Monday (March 4). Fortunately, there were no casualties reported in the incident. The police, as per news agency PTI reports, said that the roof of the building partially collapsed in the mall’s central hall at around 12.45 am and the debris scattered all around the railings and the escalators. The videos of the incident doing rounds on social media show the area engulfed in cloud of dust after the incident took place. The police said that an inquiry was launched into the incident. 😱😱😱😱 roof of ambience mall in Vasant Kunj collapsed during maintenance work 😱😱😱😱 new fear unlocked. pic.twitter.com/oWx00zLs8C — Nirwa Mehta (@nirwamehta) March 4, 2024 × This comes a day after two men lost their lives after being allegedly hit by an iron grille inside a shopping mall in Noida Extension. Also read: Video shows exact moment when massive boulders crushed two trucks The grille fell on the duo from the fifth floor while they were walking towards an escalator on the ground floor of Galaxy Blue Sapphire Mall. #WATCH | Uttar Pradesh: Two men died after a ceiling grill fell on them at Galaxy Blue Sapphire Mall in Greater Noida. Police present on the spot. https://t.co/NgPOmvsIwT pic.twitter.com/Hw50Lq5Q9G — ANI (@ANI) March 3, 2024 × Both victims, aged 35, died on the spot. They were residents of the Vijay Nagar area in adjoining Ghaziabad district, Additional DCP (Central Noida) Hridesh Katheriya said. “The local Bisrakh police station was informed by Yatharth Hospital that two people died in Blue Sapphire Mall after an iron grille fell on them from the fifth floor. A police team immediately reached the spot,” he said. The deceased have been identified as Harendra Bhati and Shakeel, said the officer. Katheriya further said that the families of the victims were contacted and that legal action would be initiated in the case once a complaint was received from them. (With inputs from agencies)

Video: Portion of roof collapses at Delhi’s Ambience Mall, debris scatters all around escalators

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the war game ‘Bharat Shakti’ in Rajasthan’s Pokhran on March 12 which is likely to coincide with the Election Commission of India's announcement of the Lok Sabha election schedule.

The top brass of the tri-services, including Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan, are also scheduled to attend the warfare event.

The exercises in the war game will comprise an exhibition, and display of the weapons platforms and systems that have been designed in an indigenous manner.

The event, which is due to take place in Pokhran, is set around PM Modi's concept of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat' and will push India-centric tactics-led revolution in military affairs which is distinctive to the Indian geography and threats related to security when it comes to Bharat, as per a report by the Hindustan Times.

The ‘Bharat Shakti’ war game is aimed at testing the effectiveness of Indian-made platforms and network-centric systems and also to display the country's progress in the defence manufacturing sector.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-pm-modi-to-chair-key-ministerial-meet-ahead-of-polls-whats-on-agenda-696119">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: PM Modi to chair key ministerial meet ahead of polls. What’s on agenda?</a>

Apart from this, the exercise will also examine the integrity and resilience of indigenous communication systems and networks to ensure that they cannot be hacked especially during hostile conditions.

The exercise will also exhibit the alliance among the three defence services which often tend to operate within their silos.

The weapons set to be put on display are Tejas fighter aircraft, K-9 artillery guns, indigenous drones, Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers and short-range missiles.

Prior to this, PM Modi attended the Indian Air Forces’ Vayushakti-2024 at Pokhran Range near Jaisalmer last month, where a range of the country's enviable air assets, including Rafale fighters, LCH Prachand Chinook and Apache demonstrated their capabilities for the first time.

The theme of the Vayushakti was, 'Lightning Strike from the Sky', as 120 aircraft displayed the lAF's offensive capabilities by day as well as by night.

Fighters of the Indian Air Force that took part in the exercise included the Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, Mirage-2000, Tejas and Hawk. The fighters from the IAF fleet bombarded and destroyed simulated enemy targets on the ground and in the air with fatal precision.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the war game ‘Bharat Shakti’ in Rajasthan’s Pokhran on March 12 which is likely to coincide with the Election Commission of India's announcement of the Lok Sabha election schedule.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the war game ‘Bharat Shakti’ in Rajasthan’s Pokhran on March 12 which is likely to coincide with the Election Commission of India's announcement of the Lok Sabha election schedule. The top brass of the tri-services, including Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan, are also scheduled to attend the warfare event. The exercises in the war game will comprise an exhibition, and display of the weapons platforms and systems that have been designed in an indigenous manner. The event, which is due to take place in Pokhran, is set around PM Modi's concept of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat' and will push India-centric tactics-led revolution in military affairs which is distinctive to the Indian geography and threats related to security when it comes to Bharat, as per a report by the Hindustan Times. The ‘Bharat Shakti’ war game is aimed at testing the effectiveness of Indian-made platforms and network-centric systems and also to display the country's progress in the defence manufacturing sector. Also read: Lok Sabha Elections 2024: PM Modi to chair key ministerial meet ahead of polls. What’s on agenda? Apart from this, the exercise will also examine the integrity and resilience of indigenous communication systems and networks to ensure that they cannot be hacked especially during hostile conditions. The exercise will also exhibit the alliance among the three defence services which often tend to operate within their silos. The weapons set to be put on display are Tejas fighter aircraft, K-9 artillery guns, indigenous drones, Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers and short-range missiles. Prior to this, PM Modi attended the Indian Air Forces’ Vayushakti-2024 at Pokhran Range near Jaisalmer last month, where a range of the country's enviable air assets, including Rafale fighters, LCH Prachand Chinook and Apache demonstrated their capabilities for the first time. The theme of the Vayushakti was, 'Lightning Strike from the Sky', as 120 aircraft displayed the lAF's offensive capabilities by day as well as by night. Fighters of the Indian Air Force that took part in the exercise included the Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, Mirage-2000, Tejas and Hawk. The fighters from the IAF fleet bombarded and destroyed simulated enemy targets on the ground and in the air with fatal precision. (With inputs from agencies)

India: PM Modi set to attend ‘Bharat Shakti’ war game in Pokhran exhibiting indigenous capabilities

As hundreds of farmers continue to camp at the Punjab-Haryana border amid the ongoing 'Dilli Chalo' march, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher on Sunday (Feb 25) said that the agitation will go on until their demands are fulfilled.&nbsp;

He also urged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speak on the matter and address "whatever is happening with the farmers".

"Today, is the 13th day of the morchas at Shambhu and Khanauri. Today, we will have a convention on both borders as there will be a discussion on WTO. We have demanded that the farming sector should be taken out of WTO...We will hold a press conference in the evening," Pandher said.

He further stated that on Feb 26, over 20ft tall effigies will be burned at both borders. While&nbsp;on Feb 27 and 28 discussions will be held with the government and the next steps will be decided and announced on Feb 29.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher says, "Today, is the 13th day of the morchas at Shambhu and Khanauri. Today, we will have a convention on both borders as there will be a discussion on WTO. We have demanded that the farming sector should be taken out of WTO...We will… <a href="https://t.co/Zm1GTAWZ1g">pic.twitter.com/Zm1GTAWZ1g</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1761556928818270553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"On the morning of 26th Feb, biers of WTO, corporate houses and governments will be burned; in the afternoon, at both borders over 20ft tall effigies will be burned. On 27th Feb, Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, SKM (non-political) will hold a meeting of all its leaders from across the country. On 28th Feb, both forums will sit and hold a discussion. On 29th Feb, the next steps will be decided...We are asking PM Modi to speak on whatever is happening with the farmers," he added.

Meanwhile, the authorities have begun the process of partially reopening the Singhu and&nbsp;Tikri borders with the north Indian state of Haryana, almost two weeks after they were shut in&nbsp;view of the protest.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-to-hold-candle-march-as-toll-amid-protest-reaches-four-693322">Indian Farmers to hold candle march as toll amid protest reaches four</a>

<h2>Tikait urges for solution through dialogue</h2>

Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait, following rounds of inconclusive talks between the Indian government and farmers over their demands, said that there should be a solution through dialogue.

"People living in the forests protect the environment. From Bihar to Andhra Pradesh, which is a forest area, Adivasis worship the 'Jungle'. No army and farmers are standing face to face. We have people in the army also who come from a farming background. There should be a solution through dialogue. Continuous talks are going on with the Centre," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

As hundreds of farmers continue to camp at the Punjab-Haryana border amid the ongoing 'Dilli Chalo' march, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher on Sunday (Feb 25) said that the agitation will go on until their demands are fulfilled.

As hundreds of farmers continue to camp at the Punjab-Haryana border amid the ongoing 'Dilli Chalo' march, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher on Sunday (Feb 25) said that the agitation will go on until their demands are fulfilled. He also urged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speak on the matter and address "whatever is happening with the farmers". "Today, is the 13th day of the morchas at Shambhu and Khanauri. Today, we will have a convention on both borders as there will be a discussion on WTO. We have demanded that the farming sector should be taken out of WTO...We will hold a press conference in the evening," Pandher said. He further stated that on Feb 26, over 20ft tall effigies will be burned at both borders. While on Feb 27 and 28 discussions will be held with the government and the next steps will be decided and announced on Feb 29. #WATCH | Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher says, "Today, is the 13th day of the morchas at Shambhu and Khanauri. Today, we will have a convention on both borders as there will be a discussion on WTO. We have demanded that the farming sector should be taken out of WTO...We will… pic.twitter.com/Zm1GTAWZ1g — ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2024 × "On the morning of 26th Feb, biers of WTO, corporate houses and governments will be burned; in the afternoon, at both borders over 20ft tall effigies will be burned. On 27th Feb, Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, SKM (non-political) will hold a meeting of all its leaders from across the country. On 28th Feb, both forums will sit and hold a discussion. On 29th Feb, the next steps will be decided...We are asking PM Modi to speak on whatever is happening with the farmers," he added. Meanwhile, the authorities have begun the process of partially reopening the Singhu and Tikri borders with the north Indian state of Haryana, almost two weeks after they were shut in view of the protest. Also read: Indian Farmers to hold candle march as toll amid protest reaches four Tikait urges for solution through dialogue Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait, following rounds of inconclusive talks between the Indian government and farmers over their demands, said that there should be a solution through dialogue. "People living in the forests protect the environment. From Bihar to Andhra Pradesh, which is a forest area, Adivasis worship the 'Jungle'. No army and farmers are standing face to face. We have people in the army also who come from a farming background. There should be a solution through dialogue. Continuous talks are going on with the Centre," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian farmers vow to continue agitation until demands fulfilled, state border reopens partially

Amid the ongoing protests by the farmers, Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait, on Thursday (Feb 22), said that the protesting farmers led by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) will observe&nbsp;'Black Friday' on Feb 23&nbsp;after one of the protesting farmers died at the Khanauri Border crossing in Sangrur district, Punjab.

"We will observe a 'Black Friday' tomorrow condoling the death of a farmer at the Khanauri Border crossing in Punjab. We held a tractor march yesterday as well," Tikait told news agency ANI.

The BKU leader further said that&nbsp;the farmers protesting to push the Centre for their demands will hold a tractor march on Feb 26.

"On February 26, we will take tractors to the highway, and towards the way that goes to Delhi. It will be a one-day programme, and then we will return. Then, all across India, our meetings will go on. On March 14, there will be a programme at Ram Leela Ground in Delhi for one day. People will go without tractors to that event. The government keeps saying that they are not stopping us so let's see if they will stop us or not," he added.

<h2>SKM calls for nationwide mobilisation of farmers</h2>

Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) on Thursday released an official press statement calling for a nationwide mobilisation of farmers in support of its demands and against the "repression of the farmers' struggle".

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/today-india-is-the-largest-milk-producing-nation-globally-80-million-associated-with-dairy-sector-pm-modi-692640">Govt leaving no stone unturned to ensure farmers' welfare: Indian PM Modi</a>

"The SKM General Body (GB) on Thursday decided to organise a massive mobilisation of farmers with a slew of programmes to be observed all over India in support of its demands and against the repression of the farmers' struggle," said the official statement.

"The GB paid homage to martyr Shubh Karan Singh who died in police firing yesterday when the Haryana police crossed the border illegally and shot at the protesters. The police also damaged several tractors of farmers at the protest site," it said.

"SKM squarely blamed Union Home Minister Amit Shah for conspiring to carry out severe repression on the protesters to isolate and divide the Kisan movement, develop alienation among the people of Punjab and try to take electoral advantage of this division," it added.

"SKM while demanding the resignation of Amit Shah and CM and HM of Haryana, ML Khattar and Anil Vij, demanded that the Punjab govt should lodge an FIR under section 302 against them and the police for the murder and injury to the protesters and damage to several tractors at the protest site," said the statement.

WATCH: India farmers' Protest: Farmers' march on pause for two days, next round of talks awaited

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&nbsp;

SKM further called for observing 26 February 2024 as Quit WTO Day which is when the WTO Conference is going to begin in Abu Dhabi.

<h2>Protestors to cover the cost of any damage caused to public property: Ambala Police</h2>

Meanwhile, the Haryana Police in the Ambala District has stated that any damage caused to private or public property during the protest will be made up for by seizing the demonstrators' bank accounts and attaching their belongings.

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The Ambala Police released an official press statement saying that the farmer organisations have been making continuous efforts since Feb 13 to break the barricade placed on the Shambhu Border and daily attempts to undermine law and order are being made by the demonstrators by pelting stones at the police administration and causing disturbances.&nbsp;

"The damage caused to government and private property by the agitators is being assessed. The administration had already informed/warned in this regard that if the agitators caused damage to government and private property during this movement, then this loss would be compensated by seizing their property and bank accounts. If public property is damaged by the agitators during the movement, there is an amendment in the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act 1984 (PDPP Act) under the provisions of the Supreme Court in which, the people who caused damage to public property during the movement or called for the movement and the officials of that organization are held responsible for any damage caused," the official release said.

"In this regard, the actions taken by the administration against the agitators leaders are being implemented. If there has been any damage to any community's property during this movement, the details of the damage can be given to the administration. Proceedings to compensate for the loss of government property during the farmers' protest, attachment of property and seizure of bank accounts of the protestors have been initiated," it added.

The police have also initiated the National Security Act (NSA) against the farmer leaders.

"Proceedings have been initiated under the NSA National Security Act 1980/NSA against the chief officials of farmer organizations and the agitators," the Ambala police said on X.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the ongoing protests by the farmers, Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait, on Thursday (Feb 22), said that the protesting farmers led by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) will observe 'Black Friday' on Feb 23 after one of the protesting farmers died at the Khanauri Border crossing in Sangrur district, Punjab.

Amid the ongoing protests by the farmers, Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait, on Thursday (Feb 22), said that the protesting farmers led by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) will observe 'Black Friday' on Feb 23 after one of the protesting farmers died at the Khanauri Border crossing in Sangrur district, Punjab. "We will observe a 'Black Friday' tomorrow condoling the death of a farmer at the Khanauri Border crossing in Punjab. We held a tractor march yesterday as well," Tikait told news agency ANI. The BKU leader further said that the farmers protesting to push the Centre for their demands will hold a tractor march on Feb 26. "On February 26, we will take tractors to the highway, and towards the way that goes to Delhi. It will be a one-day programme, and then we will return. Then, all across India, our meetings will go on. On March 14, there will be a programme at Ram Leela Ground in Delhi for one day. People will go without tractors to that event. The government keeps saying that they are not stopping us so let's see if they will stop us or not," he added. SKM calls for nationwide mobilisation of farmers Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) on Thursday released an official press statement calling for a nationwide mobilisation of farmers in support of its demands and against the "repression of the farmers' struggle". Also read: Govt leaving no stone unturned to ensure farmers' welfare: Indian PM Modi "The SKM General Body (GB) on Thursday decided to organise a massive mobilisation of farmers with a slew of programmes to be observed all over India in support of its demands and against the repression of the farmers' struggle," said the official statement. "The GB paid homage to martyr Shubh Karan Singh who died in police firing yesterday when the Haryana police crossed the border illegally and shot at the protesters. The police also damaged several tractors of farmers at the protest site," it said. "SKM squarely blamed Union Home Minister Amit Shah for conspiring to carry out severe repression on the protesters to isolate and divide the Kisan movement, develop alienation among the people of Punjab and try to take electoral advantage of this division," it added. "SKM while demanding the resignation of Amit Shah and CM and HM of Haryana, ML Khattar and Anil Vij, demanded that the Punjab govt should lodge an FIR under section 302 against them and the police for the murder and injury to the protesters and damage to several tractors at the protest site," said the statement. WATCH: India farmers' Protest: Farmers' march on pause for two days, next round of talks awaited × SKM further called for observing 26 February 2024 as Quit WTO Day which is when the WTO Conference is going to begin in Abu Dhabi. Protestors to cover the cost of any damage caused to public property: Ambala Police Meanwhile, the Haryana Police in the Ambala District has stated that any damage caused to private or public property during the protest will be made up for by seizing the demonstrators' bank accounts and attaching their belongings. The Ambala Police released an official press statement saying that the farmer organisations have been making continuous efforts since Feb 13 to break the barricade placed on the Shambhu Border and daily attempts to undermine law and order are being made by the demonstrators by pelting stones at the police administration and causing disturbances. "The damage caused to government and private property by the agitators is being assessed. The administration had already informed/warned in this regard that if the agitators caused damage to government and private property during this movement, then this loss would be compensated by seizing their property and bank accounts. If public property is damaged by the agitators during the movement, there is an amendment in the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act 1984 (PDPP Act) under the provisions of the Supreme Court in which, the people who caused damage to public property during the movement or called for the movement and the officials of that organization are held responsible for any damage caused," the official release said. "In this regard, the actions taken by the administration against the agitators leaders are being implemented. If there has been any damage to any community's property during this movement, the details of the damage can be given to the administration. Proceedings to compensate for the loss of government property during the farmers' protest, attachment of property and seizure of bank accounts of the protestors have been initiated," it added. The police have also initiated the National Security Act (NSA) against the farmer leaders. "Proceedings have been initiated under the NSA National Security Act 1980/NSA against the chief officials of farmer organizations and the agitators," the Ambala police said on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Farmers' protest: Indian farm groups observe 'Black Friday' after death of a farmer

The Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) are likely to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha Polls in&nbsp;alliance in Delhi. Sources close to&nbsp;news agency ANI&nbsp;on Thursday said both the&nbsp;parties have finalised their seat-sharing alliance for the seven Lok Sabha seats in the national capital.

According to the agreement, AAP will contest&nbsp;on four seats while the Congress will fight on three.

The seat-sharing alliance came through after several rounds of deliberations and&nbsp;a meeting at KC Venugopal's house in Delhi.

During the meeting, KC Venugopal and Mukul Wasnik were present from the Congress side, while Sandeep Pathak, Saurabh Bhardwaj and Atishi were representing the AAP.

In the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha polls the BJP won all seven seats in Delhi. In the 2004 elections the Congress had won 6 seats and the BJP 1,&nbsp;while in 2009 Lok Sabha polls the Congress won all 7 seats.

In addition to this, it has also been learnt&nbsp;that Congress is likely to give AAP one seat in Haryana, while AAP will support the Congress for the Chandigarh Lok Sabha seat.

The Aam Admi Party in 2015 had dominated the assembly elections winning 67 of the 70 seats. In the 2020 election&nbsp;it won 62 seats.

In Gujarat, the AAP is demanding three seats in a potential alliance with the Congress, however a final agreement on this is awaited.

The Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) are likely to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha Polls in alliance in Delhi. Sources close to news agency ANI on Thursday said both the parties have finalised their seat-sharing alliance for the seven Lok Sabha seats in the national capital.

The Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) are likely to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha Polls in alliance in Delhi. Sources close to news agency ANI on Thursday said both the parties have finalised their seat-sharing alliance for the seven Lok Sabha seats in the national capital. According to the agreement, AAP will contest on four seats while the Congress will fight on three. The seat-sharing alliance came through after several rounds of deliberations and a meeting at KC Venugopal's house in Delhi. During the meeting, KC Venugopal and Mukul Wasnik were present from the Congress side, while Sandeep Pathak, Saurabh Bhardwaj and Atishi were representing the AAP. In the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha polls the BJP won all seven seats in Delhi. In the 2004 elections the Congress had won 6 seats and the BJP 1, while in 2009 Lok Sabha polls the Congress won all 7 seats. In addition to this, it has also been learnt that Congress is likely to give AAP one seat in Haryana, while AAP will support the Congress for the Chandigarh Lok Sabha seat. The Aam Admi Party in 2015 had dominated the assembly elections winning 67 of the 70 seats. In the 2020 election it won 62 seats. In Gujarat, the AAP is demanding three seats in a potential alliance with the Congress, however a final agreement on this is awaited.

Lok Sabha elections: AAP, Congress reach seat-sharing deal in Delhi, say reports

India's Enforcement Directorate issued a seventh summons to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday (Feb 22) in the case related to his government's excise policy.

He has been asked by the probe agency to appear before it on February 26 for questioning with regards&nbsp;to the excise-policy-linked money laundering case.

The investigation is linked to the money laundering probe in connection to the alleged irregularities in the Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22 case.

The agency had earlier issued a sixth summons to Kejriwal on Feb 14, asking him to join the probe on Feb 19, which he skipped, as he did in the previous occasions.

The previous five summons were issued February 2, January 18, January 3, November 2 and December 22, dubbing them "illegal and politically motivated".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-protesting-farmers-suspend-delhi-chalo-march-for-two-days-692429">Protesting farmers in India suspend ‘Delhi Chalo’ march for two days</a>

<h2>Summons are 'illegal and invalid', says Kejriwal&nbsp;</h2>

Earlier, while skipping the fifth summons issued by the ED, Kejriwal had called it "illegal", claiming that the agency's intention was only to arrest him and stop him from campaigning for the elections.

"All five notices sent to me (by the ED) are illegal and invalid in the eyes of the law. Whenever such general, non-specific notices were sent by the ED in the past, they were quashed and declared invalid by courts. These notices are being sent as part of a political conspiracy," Kejriwal said after skipping the fifth notice.

ED had approached Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court and lodged a complaint against Kejriwal on Feb 3 for non-compliance after he skipped the fifth summons issued.

The Directorate of Enforcement wants to record the Delhi chief minister's statement in the case related to issues about the formation of policy, meetings held before it was finalised, and allegations of bribery.

The case is based on an FIR which alleges that there were multiple irregularities in the formation as well as implementation of the Delhi excise policy (2021-22) by the Central Bureau of Investigation.&nbsp;

The policy was withdrawn following corruption allegations.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Enforcement Directorate issued a seventh summons to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday (Feb 22) in the case related to his government's excise policy.

India's Enforcement Directorate issued a seventh summons to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday (Feb 22) in the case related to his government's excise policy. He has been asked by the probe agency to appear before it on February 26 for questioning with regards to the excise-policy-linked money laundering case. The investigation is linked to the money laundering probe in connection to the alleged irregularities in the Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22 case. The agency had earlier issued a sixth summons to Kejriwal on Feb 14, asking him to join the probe on Feb 19, which he skipped, as he did in the previous occasions. The previous five summons were issued February 2, January 18, January 3, November 2 and December 22, dubbing them "illegal and politically motivated". Also read: Protesting farmers in India suspend ‘Delhi Chalo’ march for two days Summons are 'illegal and invalid', says Kejriwal Earlier, while skipping the fifth summons issued by the ED, Kejriwal had called it "illegal", claiming that the agency's intention was only to arrest him and stop him from campaigning for the elections. "All five notices sent to me (by the ED) are illegal and invalid in the eyes of the law. Whenever such general, non-specific notices were sent by the ED in the past, they were quashed and declared invalid by courts. These notices are being sent as part of a political conspiracy," Kejriwal said after skipping the fifth notice. ED had approached Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court and lodged a complaint against Kejriwal on Feb 3 for non-compliance after he skipped the fifth summons issued. The Directorate of Enforcement wants to record the Delhi chief minister's statement in the case related to issues about the formation of policy, meetings held before it was finalised, and allegations of bribery. The case is based on an FIR which alleges that there were multiple irregularities in the formation as well as implementation of the Delhi excise policy (2021-22) by the Central Bureau of Investigation. The policy was withdrawn following corruption allegations. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal summoned by ED for 7th time in excise policy case

An 83-year-old woman died and her granddaughter sustained injuries after they jumped from the fourth floor of an apartment building in the Indian capital Delhi’s Dwarka locality following a massive blaze that erupted in their house, said police, on Wednesday (Feb 21).&nbsp;

The victims were identified as Jasuri Devi, 83, and 30-year-old Pooja Pant who sustained injuries. The incident took place in the Pacific Apartment in southwest Delhi’s Dwarka around Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | Fire broke out on a floor of a residential apartment in Sector 10 Dwarka earlier today. The fire has now been doused with the help of four fire tenders. <a href="https://t.co/hUpeRajOcy">pic.twitter.com/hUpeRajOcy</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1760216490026897872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>What we know about the incident</h2>

The police said that they rushed to the site after a call about the fire. “The matter was informed to the fire officials for the rescue work,” a senior Delhi police officer told PTI.&nbsp;

An official from the Delhi Fire Services said that they received the call about the fire&nbsp;in two different flats&nbsp;at around 12:30 pm (local time). According to reports, the fire erupted on the third floor of the residential building.&nbsp;

The blaze was eventually doused with the help of six fire tenders around 1:05 pm (local time), reported PTI citing officials. According to the reports, the two women were on the balcony and jumped and one of them was rescued by firefighters.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-armys-trishakti-corps-rescue-500-tourists-stuck-in-heavy-snowfall-at-gangtok-692460">Indian Army's Trishakti Corps rescue 500 tourists stuck in heavy snowfall at Gangtok</a>

Atul Garg, Chief of Delhi Fire Services said that the two women had taken shelter on the balcony of the flat where the fire had broken out. The cause of the fire is said to be a gas leak.&nbsp;

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Dwarka) Ankit Singh said the officers first cordoned off the area and contacted Devi’s son, Mahesh Pant, who immediately reached the site.

“We collected details about his house to know that if any other person was still inside the house. We have started further investigation into the matter,” said Singh, as quoted by PTI.&nbsp;

He added, “Pooja and Jasuri Devi jumped from fourth floor which is around 40 feet above from the ground.”

<h2>About the victims</h2>

Both victims were rushed to the hospital. The 83-year-old was declared brought dead, after suffering serious head injuries. Meanwhile, Pant is said to have sustained multiple injuries and is in critical condition. She is reportedly undergoing treatment.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-to-enforce-ban-on-hookah-bars-cigarette-sales-to-individuals-under-21-692371">Karnataka bans hookah bars, cigarette sales to individuals under 21 in state</a>

“Around 12 pm, I heard the sound of ambulance and fire brigade engines. I rushed to the location,” a neighbour told PTI. “There was a massive fire in a building and teams from the police and fire brigade were trying to rescue two people.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

An 83-year-old woman died and her granddaughter sustained injuries after they jumped from the fourth floor of an apartment building in the Indian capital Delhi’s Dwarka locality following a massive blaze that erupted in their house, said police, on Wednesday (Feb 21).

An 83-year-old woman died and her granddaughter sustained injuries after they jumped from the fourth floor of an apartment building in the Indian capital Delhi’s Dwarka locality following a massive blaze that erupted in their house, said police, on Wednesday (Feb 21). The victims were identified as Jasuri Devi, 83, and 30-year-old Pooja Pant who sustained injuries. The incident took place in the Pacific Apartment in southwest Delhi’s Dwarka around Wednesday afternoon. #WATCH | Delhi | Fire broke out on a floor of a residential apartment in Sector 10 Dwarka earlier today. The fire has now been doused with the help of four fire tenders. pic.twitter.com/hUpeRajOcy — ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2024 × What we know about the incident The police said that they rushed to the site after a call about the fire. “The matter was informed to the fire officials for the rescue work,” a senior Delhi police officer told PTI. An official from the Delhi Fire Services said that they received the call about the fire in two different flats at around 12:30 pm (local time). According to reports, the fire erupted on the third floor of the residential building. The blaze was eventually doused with the help of six fire tenders around 1:05 pm (local time), reported PTI citing officials. According to the reports, the two women were on the balcony and jumped and one of them was rescued by firefighters. Also Read | Indian Army's Trishakti Corps rescue 500 tourists stuck in heavy snowfall at Gangtok Atul Garg, Chief of Delhi Fire Services said that the two women had taken shelter on the balcony of the flat where the fire had broken out. The cause of the fire is said to be a gas leak. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Dwarka) Ankit Singh said the officers first cordoned off the area and contacted Devi’s son, Mahesh Pant, who immediately reached the site. “We collected details about his house to know that if any other person was still inside the house. We have started further investigation into the matter,” said Singh, as quoted by PTI. He added, “Pooja and Jasuri Devi jumped from fourth floor which is around 40 feet above from the ground.” About the victims Both victims were rushed to the hospital. The 83-year-old was declared brought dead, after suffering serious head injuries. Meanwhile, Pant is said to have sustained multiple injuries and is in critical condition. She is reportedly undergoing treatment. Also Read | Karnataka bans hookah bars, cigarette sales to individuals under 21 in state “Around 12 pm, I heard the sound of ambulance and fire brigade engines. I rushed to the location,” a neighbour told PTI. “There was a massive fire in a building and teams from the police and fire brigade were trying to rescue two people.” (With inputs from agencies)

India: 83-year-old woman killed, another injured after massive fire erupts in Delhi building

Delhi weather update: After an extremely windy start to the week, the Indian capital city of Delhi and its&nbsp;National Capital Region (NCR) received light rain on Tuesday (Feb 20) midnight, leading to a dip in temperature early in the morning.&nbsp;

The minimum temperature dropped to 12 degrees Celsius, the&nbsp;India Meteorological Department (IMD) said, predicting more showers throughout the day.

<h2>Delhi weather update: Thunderstorms with light rains likely to occur during the next few days</h2>

"Generally cloudy sky with the possibility of drizzle in one or two places," IMD said in its bulletin, adding that maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to hover around&nbsp;25.5 and 11.8 degrees Celsius, respectively.

"Thunderstorm with light to moderate intensity rain would occur over and adjoining areas of many places of Delhi and NCR, Deoband, Nazibabad, Muzaffarnagar, Bijnaur, Khatauli, Sakoti Tanda, Hastinapur, Chandpur, Baraut, Daurala, Bagpat, Meerut, Khekra, Modinagar, Gulaoti, Siyana, Sikandrabad, Bulandshahar, Jahangirabad, Shikarpur (UP)," it added.

In Delhi, areas such as Mandi House, RK Puram, and Najafgarh among others witnessed fresh showers. Following the rains, the air quality index of the city witnessed a drop. Places such as IGI Airport, Dwarka, Jawarharlal Nehru Stadium, and others.recorded less than 200 AQI.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/migrating-species-crucial-to-planet-under-threat-un-report-wion-climate-tracker-689870">Watch |&nbsp;Migrating species crucial to planet under threat: UN report | WION Climate Tracker</a>

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On Monday, the IMD in its daily bulletin had said that an intense spell of&nbsp;rainfall/snowfall activity was likely to continue over the Western Himalayan region till Wednesday (Feb 21).

"Heavy to very heavy rain/snow at isolated places over Jammu &amp; Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Hail at isolated places over Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Haryana. Thunderstorm/Lightning at isolated places over Jammu &amp; Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, west Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. Gusty winds speed (40-60 kmph) at isolated places in Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and west Uttar Pradesh," the IMD bulletin read.

The activity in the hills has subsequently resulted in the rainfall over the plains of northwest India during this period.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi weather update: After an extremely windy start to the week, the Indian capital city of Delhi and its National Capital Region (NCR) received light rain on Tuesday (Feb 20) midnight, leading to a dip in temperature early in the morning.

Delhi weather update: After an extremely windy start to the week, the Indian capital city of Delhi and its National Capital Region (NCR) received light rain on Tuesday (Feb 20) midnight, leading to a dip in temperature early in the morning. The minimum temperature dropped to 12 degrees Celsius, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said, predicting more showers throughout the day. Delhi weather update: Thunderstorms with light rains likely to occur during the next few days "Generally cloudy sky with the possibility of drizzle in one or two places," IMD said in its bulletin, adding that maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to hover around 25.5 and 11.8 degrees Celsius, respectively. "Thunderstorm with light to moderate intensity rain would occur over and adjoining areas of many places of Delhi and NCR, Deoband, Nazibabad, Muzaffarnagar, Bijnaur, Khatauli, Sakoti Tanda, Hastinapur, Chandpur, Baraut, Daurala, Bagpat, Meerut, Khekra, Modinagar, Gulaoti, Siyana, Sikandrabad, Bulandshahar, Jahangirabad, Shikarpur (UP)," it added. In Delhi, areas such as Mandi House, RK Puram, and Najafgarh among others witnessed fresh showers. Following the rains, the air quality index of the city witnessed a drop. Places such as IGI Airport, Dwarka, Jawarharlal Nehru Stadium, and others.recorded less than 200 AQI. Watch | Migrating species crucial to planet under threat: UN report | WION Climate Tracker × On Monday, the IMD in its daily bulletin had said that an intense spell of rainfall/snowfall activity was likely to continue over the Western Himalayan region till Wednesday (Feb 21). "Heavy to very heavy rain/snow at isolated places over Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Hail at isolated places over Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Haryana. Thunderstorm/Lightning at isolated places over Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, west Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. Gusty winds speed (40-60 kmph) at isolated places in Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and west Uttar Pradesh," the IMD bulletin read. The activity in the hills has subsequently resulted in the rainfall over the plains of northwest India during this period. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi weather: Light rain in several parts of city bring temperature down; IMD predicts more showers

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (Feb 19) said that the officers of the national capital are not willing to work due to the pressure from the BJP which has led to a "serious constitutional crisis".&nbsp;

The chief minister claimed that the proposed 'one-time settlement' scheme for redressing inflated water bills was stopped by the officers. He added that Aam Aadmi Party will start a massive protest in the national capital if the BJP does not allow the implementation of the scheme.

Speaking in the Delhi Assembly, CM Kejriwal appealed to Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena to give directions for the implementation of the scheme to the officers or take action against them if they are not willing to do it.&nbsp;

Hinting at another showdown with the BJP-led Centre, Kejriwal said the Delhi government will make sure that the Delhi Jal Board's (DJB) ‘one-time settlement scheme' is implemented at all costs.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/excise-policy-case-ed-likely-to-summon-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-again-as-he-skips-summons-for-the-6th-time-691790">Excise policy case: ED likely to summon Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal again as he skips summons for the 6th time</a>

Kejriwal accused the BJP of obstructing schemes like the 'Farishtey' scheme, DTC pensions, Mohalla Clinics, CCTVs and medicines for hospitals.&nbsp;

“Although Delhi is half a state, we feel it's not even 5 per cent a state. If Delhi were a full state, no officer would have dared to ignore orders from the chief minister or ministers. They would have been immediately suspended," Kejriwal said.

He added that a "serious constitutional crisis" has arisen in the national capital after officers&nbsp;refused to work.&nbsp;

“If they do not work, then how will the government run, can the government run even for two days? Does this suit the Central government, does it suit the BJP?" the chief minister quipped.

<h2>Kejriwal accuses BJP of 'destroying Delhi'&nbsp;</h2>

"The BJP feels happy if the people of Delhi are sad or ill. BJP people want to destroy Delhi,” he said.

The chief minister further asked Leader of Opposition Ramvir Singh Bidhuri to leave politics aside and ensure that the scheme is passed with the help of the LG.

"You will get all the credit. I will shout from the top of the Red Fort that BJP people have done this, vote for BJP people. You are doing it for votes. (I know) there is no other reason, take the votes. We don't want votes," Kejriwal said.

Watch:&nbsp;India: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal wins vote of confidence in Assembly

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Bidhuri, on the other hand, alleged that the government has not been serious about implementing the scheme.

"While a calling attention motion has been presented in the assembly on the issue, the concerned minister and DJB chairperson Atishi is not present in the House. The truth is that the government itself has no intention of settling the bills," said Bidhuri, while questioning how were the consumers sent the inflated bills in the first place.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (Feb 19) said that the officers of the national capital are not willing to work due to the pressure from the BJP which has led to a "serious constitutional crisis".

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (Feb 19) said that the officers of the national capital are not willing to work due to the pressure from the BJP which has led to a "serious constitutional crisis". The chief minister claimed that the proposed 'one-time settlement' scheme for redressing inflated water bills was stopped by the officers. He added that Aam Aadmi Party will start a massive protest in the national capital if the BJP does not allow the implementation of the scheme. Speaking in the Delhi Assembly, CM Kejriwal appealed to Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena to give directions for the implementation of the scheme to the officers or take action against them if they are not willing to do it. Hinting at another showdown with the BJP-led Centre, Kejriwal said the Delhi government will make sure that the Delhi Jal Board's (DJB) ‘one-time settlement scheme' is implemented at all costs. Also Read: Excise policy case: ED likely to summon Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal again as he skips summons for the 6th time Kejriwal accused the BJP of obstructing schemes like the 'Farishtey' scheme, DTC pensions, Mohalla Clinics, CCTVs and medicines for hospitals. “Although Delhi is half a state, we feel it's not even 5 per cent a state. If Delhi were a full state, no officer would have dared to ignore orders from the chief minister or ministers. They would have been immediately suspended," Kejriwal said. He added that a "serious constitutional crisis" has arisen in the national capital after officers refused to work. “If they do not work, then how will the government run, can the government run even for two days? Does this suit the Central government, does it suit the BJP?" the chief minister quipped. Kejriwal accuses BJP of 'destroying Delhi' "The BJP feels happy if the people of Delhi are sad or ill. BJP people want to destroy Delhi,” he said. The chief minister further asked Leader of Opposition Ramvir Singh Bidhuri to leave politics aside and ensure that the scheme is passed with the help of the LG. "You will get all the credit. I will shout from the top of the Red Fort that BJP people have done this, vote for BJP people. You are doing it for votes. (I know) there is no other reason, take the votes. We don't want votes," Kejriwal said. Watch: India: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal wins vote of confidence in Assembly Bidhuri, on the other hand, alleged that the government has not been serious about implementing the scheme. "While a calling attention motion has been presented in the assembly on the issue, the concerned minister and DJB chairperson Atishi is not present in the House. The truth is that the government itself has no intention of settling the bills," said Bidhuri, while questioning how were the consumers sent the inflated bills in the first place. (With inputs from agencies)

Arvind Kejriwal warns of protest, says 'serious constitutional crisis' in national capital

A rare triple-dip La-Nina event, prolonged by climate change, set off a unique trend in the winter of 2022–2023, where air quality improved in north India while pollution levels increased in peninsular India.

The unusual "triple-dip" event of three years in a row of La Niña conditions (2020–23) has a global influence on the ocean and climate.

A team of scientists led by Gufran Beig, Chair Professor, National Institute of Advanced Studies, conducted a study that highlighted the importance of quickly changing climate in relation to air quality, in addition to local emissions.

The study, which was published in the Elsevier Journal, shows that, in contrast to previous decades, the air quality in Indian cities on the peninsula deteriorated during the winter of 2022–2023 while improving in the country's north.

Among the north Indian cities, Ghaziabad recorded the most noteworthy improvement with a drop of 33 per cent, followed by Rohtak (30 per cent) and Noida (28 per cent). Delhi exhibited an improvement of around 10 per cent.

However, with a 30 per cent increase in PM2.5 levels, Mumbai saw the worst degradation, followed by other Indian peninsula cities like Coimbatore (28 per cent), Bengaluru (20 per cent), Chennai (12 per cent), etc.

Several North Indian cities almost surpassed the five-year-long target set under the National Clean Air Programme in no time. What caused this had been a puzzle, said the researchers.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-quds-chief-visited-iraq-and-asked-allied-militias-to-halt-attacks-on-us-report-691434">Iran’s Quds chief visited Iraq and asked allied militias to halt attacks on US: Report</a>

"The winter of 2022-23 coincided with the last phase of an unusual triple-dip La Niña event, the first in the 21st century. This phenomenon, influenced by climate change, impacted the large-scale wind pattern, playing a decisive role in preventing stagnation conditions in north Indian cities and thus improving air quality," said R H Kripalani, a climate scientist at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology and co-author of the report.

On the contrary, he said that it brought calmer conditions to Indian towns on the peninsula, hastened transboundary pollution, and dramatically worsened the quality of the air.

"The dominance of higher northerly winds at the transport level forced an influx, along with relatively slower winds near the surface, trapping pollutants in peninsular India and increasing PM2.5 concentration. Conversely, feeble western disturbances, unique wind patterns, and the absence of rain, clouds, and faster ventilation led to a significant improvement in air quality in the north," Kripalani said.

The scientists used the recently created cutting-edge NIAS-SAFAR air quality forecasting model, which blends a chemical transport model with a contemporary artificial intelligence algorithm created locally, to validate their theory.

"Our findings are vindicated as the air quality in the winter of 2023-24, when La Nina ended, returned to normal levels," Beig said.

"The findings of the current paper suggest that we need to wake up to the fact that extreme and unusual occurrences in air pollution phenomena are directly or indirectly manifestations of climate change," he said.

"Such revelations, in all probability, are set to increase by leaps and bounds unless we focus on a long-term strategy to reduce the menace of anthropogenic emissions directly at the source. That would be a win-win situation for both air quality and climate change," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A rare triple-dip La-Nina event, prolonged by climate change, set off a unique trend in the winter of 2022–2023, where air quality improved in north India while pollution levels increased in peninsular India.

A rare triple-dip La-Nina event, prolonged by climate change, set off a unique trend in the winter of 2022–2023, where air quality improved in north India while pollution levels increased in peninsular India. The unusual "triple-dip" event of three years in a row of La Niña conditions (2020–23) has a global influence on the ocean and climate. A team of scientists led by Gufran Beig, Chair Professor, National Institute of Advanced Studies, conducted a study that highlighted the importance of quickly changing climate in relation to air quality, in addition to local emissions. The study, which was published in the Elsevier Journal, shows that, in contrast to previous decades, the air quality in Indian cities on the peninsula deteriorated during the winter of 2022–2023 while improving in the country's north. Among the north Indian cities, Ghaziabad recorded the most noteworthy improvement with a drop of 33 per cent, followed by Rohtak (30 per cent) and Noida (28 per cent). Delhi exhibited an improvement of around 10 per cent. However, with a 30 per cent increase in PM2.5 levels, Mumbai saw the worst degradation, followed by other Indian peninsula cities like Coimbatore (28 per cent), Bengaluru (20 per cent), Chennai (12 per cent), etc. Several North Indian cities almost surpassed the five-year-long target set under the National Clean Air Programme in no time. What caused this had been a puzzle, said the researchers. Also read: Iran’s Quds chief visited Iraq and asked allied militias to halt attacks on US: Report "The winter of 2022-23 coincided with the last phase of an unusual triple-dip La Niña event, the first in the 21st century. This phenomenon, influenced by climate change, impacted the large-scale wind pattern, playing a decisive role in preventing stagnation conditions in north Indian cities and thus improving air quality," said R H Kripalani, a climate scientist at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology and co-author of the report. On the contrary, he said that it brought calmer conditions to Indian towns on the peninsula, hastened transboundary pollution, and dramatically worsened the quality of the air. "The dominance of higher northerly winds at the transport level forced an influx, along with relatively slower winds near the surface, trapping pollutants in peninsular India and increasing PM2.5 concentration. Conversely, feeble western disturbances, unique wind patterns, and the absence of rain, clouds, and faster ventilation led to a significant improvement in air quality in the north," Kripalani said. The scientists used the recently created cutting-edge NIAS-SAFAR air quality forecasting model, which blends a chemical transport model with a contemporary artificial intelligence algorithm created locally, to validate their theory. "Our findings are vindicated as the air quality in the winter of 2023-24, when La Nina ended, returned to normal levels," Beig said. "The findings of the current paper suggest that we need to wake up to the fact that extreme and unusual occurrences in air pollution phenomena are directly or indirectly manifestations of climate change," he said. "Such revelations, in all probability, are set to increase by leaps and bounds unless we focus on a long-term strategy to reduce the menace of anthropogenic emissions directly at the source. That would be a win-win situation for both air quality and climate change," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Rare ‘triple-dip’ La Nina event behind unusually good air quality in India in 2022-23, says study

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on a&nbsp;visit to the northern state of Haryana, laid the foundation stone of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Rewari on Friday (Feb 16).

He also laid the&nbsp;foundation stones of other multiple development projects related to urban transport, health, rail and tourism sectors&nbsp;worth more than 11,76,857 USD.

AIIMS-Rewari will be built at a cost of over 1,98,752.73 USD on 203 acres of land in Majra Bhalkhi village.

The officials said that the residents of Haryana and the adjoining states will&nbsp;greatly benefit from the opening of the medical institute because of the healthcare facilities it will provide.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Haryana: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates Rewari AIIMS, various Railway Projects in North Western Railway/Northern Railway and others, in Rewari. <a href="https://t.co/KsOCKEFSRc">pic.twitter.com/KsOCKEFSRc</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1758410420040130736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Established under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY), the project, with a total length of 28.5 km, is set to create a passage between Millennium City Centre and Udyog Vihar Phase-5 and also connect it with the existing metro network of Rapid Metro Rail Gurugram at Moulsari Avenue station near Cyber City.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-congress-claims-its-bank-accounts-have-been-frozen-ahead-of-lok-sabha-polls-690844">India: Congress' 'frozen' bank accounts now operational</a>

The Indian prime minister also inaugurated a newly constructed Anubhav Kendra Jyotisar in Kurukshetra, which is designed to bring the narrative of the Mahabharata and the teachings of the Gita to life.

PM Modi also flagged off a new train service between Rohtak-Meham-Hansi, in Rewari which is set to cut down&nbsp;the travel time between Rohtak and Hisar.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Haryana: Prime Minister Narendra Modi flags off new train service between Rohtak-Meham-Hansi, in Rewari <a href="https://t.co/aMrLPWlsqW">pic.twitter.com/aMrLPWlsqW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1758410130788438292?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar felicitated PM Modi and said, "This is a special occasion when PM Modi is amongst us... When you (PM Modi) were the CM in Gujarat in 2013 and people were seeing you as the PM, you started your campaign from Rewari...Today, you are fulfilling the aspiration and dream of the people of Rewari by giving AIIMS to them..."

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2013 में 272 पार 
2024 में 400 पार... 
 
AIIMS रेवाड़ी, गुरुग्राम मेट्रो विस्तारीकरण, रोहतक-हांसी नई रेलवे लाइन जैसी बड़ी परियोजनाओं के लिए आभार मोदी जी ! 
 
रेवाड़ी से प्रधानमंत्री श्री <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> जी का पुराना रिश्ता रहा है और आज उनके स्वागत में उमड़े जनसमूह ने जो आशीर्वाद… <a href="https://t.co/kz40dIHYf5">pic.twitter.com/kz40dIHYf5</a>
— Manohar Lal (@mlkhattar) <a href="https://twitter.com/mlkhattar/status/1758441233834217903?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"The Metro station project in Gurugram will not only help people from Gurugram or the country but also those foreign companies who are here to invest... In the last 10 years, the way you have guided us, especially after the Pran Pratistha (Ram Mandir), has increased trust in our leadership...," CM Khattar added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on a visit to the northern state of Haryana, laid the foundation stone of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Rewari on Friday (Feb 16).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on a visit to the northern state of Haryana, laid the foundation stone of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Rewari on Friday (Feb 16). He also laid the foundation stones of other multiple development projects related to urban transport, health, rail and tourism sectors worth more than 11,76,857 USD. AIIMS-Rewari will be built at a cost of over 1,98,752.73 USD on 203 acres of land in Majra Bhalkhi village. The officials said that the residents of Haryana and the adjoining states will greatly benefit from the opening of the medical institute because of the healthcare facilities it will provide. #WATCH | Haryana: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates Rewari AIIMS, various Railway Projects in North Western Railway/Northern Railway and others, in Rewari. pic.twitter.com/KsOCKEFSRc — ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2024 × Established under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY), the project, with a total length of 28.5 km, is set to create a passage between Millennium City Centre and Udyog Vihar Phase-5 and also connect it with the existing metro network of Rapid Metro Rail Gurugram at Moulsari Avenue station near Cyber City. Also read: India: Congress' 'frozen' bank accounts now operational The Indian prime minister also inaugurated a newly constructed Anubhav Kendra Jyotisar in Kurukshetra, which is designed to bring the narrative of the Mahabharata and the teachings of the Gita to life. PM Modi also flagged off a new train service between Rohtak-Meham-Hansi, in Rewari which is set to cut down the travel time between Rohtak and Hisar. #WATCH | Haryana: Prime Minister Narendra Modi flags off new train service between Rohtak-Meham-Hansi, in Rewari pic.twitter.com/aMrLPWlsqW — ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2024 × Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar felicitated PM Modi and said, "This is a special occasion when PM Modi is amongst us... When you (PM Modi) were the CM in Gujarat in 2013 and people were seeing you as the PM, you started your campaign from Rewari...Today, you are fulfilling the aspiration and dream of the people of Rewari by giving AIIMS to them..." 2013 में 272 पार 2024 में 400 पार... AIIMS रेवाड़ी, गुरुग्राम मेट्रो विस्तारीकरण, रोहतक-हांसी नई रेलवे लाइन जैसी बड़ी परियोजनाओं के लिए आभार मोदी जी ! रेवाड़ी से प्रधानमंत्री श्री @narendramodi जी का पुराना रिश्ता रहा है और आज उनके स्वागत में उमड़े जनसमूह ने जो आशीर्वाद… pic.twitter.com/kz40dIHYf5 — Manohar Lal (@mlkhattar) February 16, 2024 × "The Metro station project in Gurugram will not only help people from Gurugram or the country but also those foreign companies who are here to invest... In the last 10 years, the way you have guided us, especially after the Pran Pratistha (Ram Mandir), has increased trust in our leadership...," CM Khattar added. (With inputs from agencies)

India: PM Modi lays foundation stone of AIIMS in Haryana's Rewari

India's capital city Delhi has been ranked first&nbsp;on&nbsp;the list of country's most polluted cities in the month of January, as per an analysis done by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA).

Out of the 254 cities, Delhi's pollution levels were recorded at the highest with the average PM2.5 concentration at 206 micrograms per cubic metre.

The city exceeded the national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) every day of the month.

The next on the list, after Delhi, was Bhagalpur in the state of Bihar.&nbsp;The daily NAAQS for PM2.5, which as per WHO's daily safe limit should be 15 micrograms per cubic metre, was recorded at 60 micrograms per cubic metre.

The other cities to be named in this list were Saharsa, Byrnihat, Greater Noida, Hanumangarh, Noida, Baddi, Sri Ganganagar and Faridabad.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lucknow-espionage-case-indian-embassy-staff-in-moscow-falls-prey-to-pakistan-isi-honey-trap-690341">Espionage case: Indian embassy staff in Moscow fell prey to Pakistan ISI honey trap</a>

"The lower temperature and no rainy day in Delhi during Jan aggravated the anthropogenic air pollution crisis, which is largely a result of a mismatch of policies and actions on reducing emissions and geographies in the city and larger airshed around it," said Sunil Dahiya, an analyst with CREA.

"Delhi or any other city in the country is yet to see a comprehensive approach to put emission caps and reduction targets. In the absence of an airshed level emission load reduction approach for air pollution governance and regulation, the fight will be inefficient," he added.

Delhi's overall Air Quality Index (AQI) still shows no signs of improvement as the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 294 on Thursday at 9 am, as per the data by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

An AQI between zero and 50 is considered as good, between 51 to 100 id satisfactory, 101 and 200 moderate, 201 and 300 poor, 301 and 400 very poor, and 401 and 500 severe.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's capital city Delhi has been ranked first on the list of country's most polluted cities in the month of January, as per an analysis done by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA).

India's capital city Delhi has been ranked first on the list of country's most polluted cities in the month of January, as per an analysis done by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA). Out of the 254 cities, Delhi's pollution levels were recorded at the highest with the average PM2.5 concentration at 206 micrograms per cubic metre. The city exceeded the national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) every day of the month. The next on the list, after Delhi, was Bhagalpur in the state of Bihar. The daily NAAQS for PM2.5, which as per WHO's daily safe limit should be 15 micrograms per cubic metre, was recorded at 60 micrograms per cubic metre. The other cities to be named in this list were Saharsa, Byrnihat, Greater Noida, Hanumangarh, Noida, Baddi, Sri Ganganagar and Faridabad. Also read: Espionage case: Indian embassy staff in Moscow fell prey to Pakistan ISI honey trap "The lower temperature and no rainy day in Delhi during Jan aggravated the anthropogenic air pollution crisis, which is largely a result of a mismatch of policies and actions on reducing emissions and geographies in the city and larger airshed around it," said Sunil Dahiya, an analyst with CREA. "Delhi or any other city in the country is yet to see a comprehensive approach to put emission caps and reduction targets. In the absence of an airshed level emission load reduction approach for air pollution governance and regulation, the fight will be inefficient," he added. Delhi's overall Air Quality Index (AQI) still shows no signs of improvement as the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 294 on Thursday at 9 am, as per the data by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). An AQI between zero and 50 is considered as good, between 51 to 100 id satisfactory, 101 and 200 moderate, 201 and 300 poor, 301 and 400 very poor, and 401 and 500 severe. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi tops list of most polluted Indian cities in January 2024

The farmers from Punjab resumed&nbsp;their "Chalo Dilli" march on the second day&nbsp;after they clashed with the police on the Punjab-Haryana border on Tuesday (Feb 13) and&nbsp;halted their stir for the night.

On Wednesday (Feb 14), tear gas shells were fired and water sprayed from tankers on the protesting farmers who tried to cross the Shambu border

The police had even earlier in the day&nbsp;resorted to firing tear gas shells to&nbsp;disperse the agitating farmers who were approaching the police barricade.

Meanwhile, the authorities have suspended mobile internet services, bulk SMS and all dongle services provided on mobile networks, except the voice calls in the districts Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad and Sirsa of Haryana State&nbsp;till February 15.

Reacting to the resumption of protests by farmers, Union Minister Arjun Munda said, "We are ready to hold discussions...We need to take into account all the sides and hold the talks...I request the farmers' union to maintain the environment for discussions. I had already said that our efforts to hold positive discussions with the farmers' union will continue."

Speaking to the media, Minister Munda said the farmer unions should not take any hasty decision that can draw criticism in the future.

"We should keep in mind all aspects and discuss this. The farmers need to ensure that normal life is not disrupted. I think no solution can be found by doing anything that creates inconvenience for the common man. Such actions only create hurdles in finding a solution. I urge them to maintain a conducive atmosphere for dialogue," the minister said. &nbsp;

"I will also urge the farmer unions not to get influenced by politics. The government is committed to farmers' welfare," he added. &nbsp;

<h2>Tight security on Delhi borders</h2>

In the wake of the protest, tight security arrangements have been made at the Tikri and Singhu Borders and the borders have been closed to prevent farmers from entering the national capital.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heres-how-farmer-protest-20-differs-from-the-2020-stir-five-points-689883">Here’s how Farmer Protest 2.0 differs from the 2020 agitation: Five points</a>

Concrete blocks, iron nails, walls of containers and multi-layer barricades have been placed at the Ghazipur, Singhu and Tikri borders and security personnel in anti-riot gear have been deployed in huge numbers.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | Drone visuals show the security arrangements at Tikri Border, in view of the farmers' protest. <a href="https://t.co/FJXyQtWbdY">pic.twitter.com/FJXyQtWbdY</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1757590570501890494?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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In various places, metal and concrete barricades have been placed at various points as part of the security arrangements.

Meanwhile, RAF personnel, police personnel and Riot Control Vehicles have been deployed at the Singhu Border in Delhi.

Speaking to ANI, DSP Anil Kumar said, "Currently, the atmosphere is peaceful. Traffic has been diverted. The movement of the pedestrians is normal."

The police officials are also carrying out security checks at the Shambhu border in Ambala, Haryana, on the second day of the farmers' protest.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Security checks underway at Shambhu border in Ambala, Haryana on second day of farmers' protest. <a href="https://t.co/1xz1AkOlgL">pic.twitter.com/1xz1AkOlgL</a>
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<h2>Delhi Traffic Police issues advisory, heavy traffic snarl at border&nbsp;</h2>

A traffic advisory has been issued by the Delhi Traffic Police&nbsp;in the wake of the farmers' protest, alerting the commuters regarding restrictions on the movement of vehicles at different borders of the national capital.

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Traffic Advisory 
 
In view of the ongoing farmers' protest at various borders of Delhi, traffic diversions will be in place. 
 
Kindly follow the advisory.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DPTrafficAdvisory?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DPTrafficAdvisory</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y2YtSuCWtv">pic.twitter.com/Y2YtSuCWtv</a>
— Delhi Traffic Police (@dtptraffic) <a href="https://twitter.com/dtptraffic/status/1757452567615819934?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Heavy traffic snarl seen at Ghazipur border this morning in view of the farmers' protest. <a href="https://t.co/CHYCMypeaS">pic.twitter.com/CHYCMypeaS</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1757601474803028345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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In the protests held on Tuesday, many farmers suffered injuries and an alert was sounded by the Punjab government in the hospitals located in Sangrur, Patiala, Dera Bassi, Mansa and Bathinda.&nbsp;

Tear gas shells were dropped by the Haryana police using drones on the&nbsp;borders to disperse the protesting farmers and stop them from crossing the border.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Farmers protest India: Protesting farmers march to Delhi, what are their demands?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/farmers-protest-india-protesting-farmers-march-to-delhi-what-are-their-demands-689960/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have been leading the "Delhi Chalo" agitation to pressure the central government to fulfil their demands, which include a law on minimum support price for crops and loan waivers.

(With inputs from agencies)

The farmers from Punjab resumed their "Chalo Dilli" march on the second day after they clashed with the police on the Punjab-Haryana border on Tuesday (Feb 13) and halted their stir for the night.

The farmers from Punjab resumed their "Chalo Dilli" march on the second day after they clashed with the police on the Punjab-Haryana border on Tuesday (Feb 13) and halted their stir for the night. On Wednesday (Feb 14), tear gas shells were fired and water sprayed from tankers on the protesting farmers who tried to cross the Shambu border The police had even earlier in the day resorted to firing tear gas shells to disperse the agitating farmers who were approaching the police barricade. Meanwhile, the authorities have suspended mobile internet services, bulk SMS and all dongle services provided on mobile networks, except the voice calls in the districts Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad and Sirsa of Haryana State till February 15. Reacting to the resumption of protests by farmers, Union Minister Arjun Munda said, "We are ready to hold discussions...We need to take into account all the sides and hold the talks...I request the farmers' union to maintain the environment for discussions. I had already said that our efforts to hold positive discussions with the farmers' union will continue." Speaking to the media, Minister Munda said the farmer unions should not take any hasty decision that can draw criticism in the future. "We should keep in mind all aspects and discuss this. The farmers need to ensure that normal life is not disrupted. I think no solution can be found by doing anything that creates inconvenience for the common man. Such actions only create hurdles in finding a solution. I urge them to maintain a conducive atmosphere for dialogue," the minister said. "I will also urge the farmer unions not to get influenced by politics. The government is committed to farmers' welfare," he added. Tight security on Delhi borders In the wake of the protest, tight security arrangements have been made at the Tikri and Singhu Borders and the borders have been closed to prevent farmers from entering the national capital. Also Read: Here’s how Farmer Protest 2.0 differs from the 2020 agitation: Five points Concrete blocks, iron nails, walls of containers and multi-layer barricades have been placed at the Ghazipur, Singhu and Tikri borders and security personnel in anti-riot gear have been deployed in huge numbers. #WATCH | Delhi | Drone visuals show the security arrangements at Tikri Border, in view of the farmers' protest. pic.twitter.com/FJXyQtWbdY — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2024 × In various places, metal and concrete barricades have been placed at various points as part of the security arrangements. Meanwhile, RAF personnel, police personnel and Riot Control Vehicles have been deployed at the Singhu Border in Delhi. Speaking to ANI, DSP Anil Kumar said, "Currently, the atmosphere is peaceful. Traffic has been diverted. The movement of the pedestrians is normal." The police officials are also carrying out security checks at the Shambhu border in Ambala, Haryana, on the second day of the farmers' protest. #WATCH | Security checks underway at Shambhu border in Ambala, Haryana on second day of farmers' protest. pic.twitter.com/1xz1AkOlgL — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2024 × Delhi Traffic Police issues advisory, heavy traffic snarl at border A traffic advisory has been issued by the Delhi Traffic Police in the wake of the farmers' protest, alerting the commuters regarding restrictions on the movement of vehicles at different borders of the national capital. Traffic Advisory In view of the ongoing farmers' protest at various borders of Delhi, traffic diversions will be in place. Kindly follow the advisory.#DPTrafficAdvisory pic.twitter.com/Y2YtSuCWtv — Delhi Traffic Police (@dtptraffic) February 13, 2024 × #WATCH | Delhi: Heavy traffic snarl seen at Ghazipur border this morning in view of the farmers' protest. pic.twitter.com/CHYCMypeaS — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2024 × In the protests held on Tuesday, many farmers suffered injuries and an alert was sounded by the Punjab government in the hospitals located in Sangrur, Patiala, Dera Bassi, Mansa and Bathinda. Tear gas shells were dropped by the Haryana police using drones on the borders to disperse the protesting farmers and stop them from crossing the border. Watch: Farmers protest India: Protesting farmers march to Delhi, what are their demands? The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have been leading the "Delhi Chalo" agitation to pressure the central government to fulfil their demands, which include a law on minimum support price for crops and loan waivers. (With inputs from agencies)

Farmers' Protest 2.0: Tear gas shells fired, water sprayed as protests resume at Shambu border

Amid the farmers' march towards the national capital, the Delhi government on Tuesday (Feb 13) refused to accept the proposal submitted by the central government to convert Bawana Stadium into a jail.&nbsp;

Speaking about the proposal of the Central government, Delhi Government Home Minister Kailash Gehlot said that the demands raised by the farmers are genuine.&nbsp;

"The demands of the farmers are genuine. It is the constitutional right of every citizen to make a peaceful protest. It is therefore incorrect to arrest the farmers," he said.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-remain-adamant-for-delhi-chalo-march-heres-how-protest-differs-from-2020s-stir-689701">Farmers remain adamant for 'Delhi Chalo' march. Here's how protest differs from the 2020 stir</a>

"The Central government, in fact, should invite them over for talks and try to find a solution to their genuine problems. Farmers are our 'annadata' and treating them in this way by arresting them would be like rubbing salt into their wounds. We cannot be a party to this decision of the central government. Hence, approval cannot be given for converting a stadium into a jail," Gehlot added.&nbsp;

<h2>Here's what farmers have been demanding in the 2024 protest</h2>

The farmers in 2020 were protesting against the three laws which were finally repealed in 2021. In 2023, Delhi Chalo was announced with the demand of a legal guarantee to MSP for all crops, full debt waiver for farmers, withdrawal of cases filed against farmers during the 2020-21 protest, the implementation of Swaminathan Commission's formula and pension for farmers and labourers.&nbsp;

Various unions have been spearheading the farmer's protest 2.0 as the landscape of the farmers' unions has changed in the last few years. Delhi Chalo 2.0 has been announced by Samyukt Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha.

Samyukt Kisan Morcha and Bhartiya Kisan Union, which led the 2020 protest of the farmers, went through several factionalisms.

Watch:&nbsp;Farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' March: Thousands of agitating farmers en route to Delhi

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/farmers-delhi-chalo-march-thousands-of-agitating-farmers-en-route-to-delhi-689683/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Rakesh Tikait and Gurnam Singh Charuni were the two main leaders who led the 2020 protest. However, they have been missing from the current protest. Sarwan Singh Pandher, general secretary of Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee&nbsp;and Jagjit Singh Dallewal, leader of SKM (non-political) are at the forefront currently.

In 2020, the farmers had entered the national capital. However, this time the administration has adopted strict pre-emptive measures to stop them from entering Delhi.&nbsp; They have used nails on roads, cement barricades and barbed wire to block all roads to Delhi. The government has imposed Section 144 across the capital.

The Haryana government has also sealed its borders along with Punjab. The negotiation process before the start of the farmers' Delhi Chalo march was initiated by the government.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the farmers' march towards the national capital, the Delhi government on Tuesday (Feb 13) refused to accept the proposal submitted by the central government to convert Bawana Stadium into a jail.

Amid the farmers' march towards the national capital, the Delhi government on Tuesday (Feb 13) refused to accept the proposal submitted by the central government to convert Bawana Stadium into a jail. Speaking about the proposal of the Central government, Delhi Government Home Minister Kailash Gehlot said that the demands raised by the farmers are genuine. "The demands of the farmers are genuine. It is the constitutional right of every citizen to make a peaceful protest. It is therefore incorrect to arrest the farmers," he said. Also Read: Farmers remain adamant for 'Delhi Chalo' march. Here's how protest differs from the 2020 stir "The Central government, in fact, should invite them over for talks and try to find a solution to their genuine problems. Farmers are our 'annadata' and treating them in this way by arresting them would be like rubbing salt into their wounds. We cannot be a party to this decision of the central government. Hence, approval cannot be given for converting a stadium into a jail," Gehlot added. Here's what farmers have been demanding in the 2024 protest The farmers in 2020 were protesting against the three laws which were finally repealed in 2021. In 2023, Delhi Chalo was announced with the demand of a legal guarantee to MSP for all crops, full debt waiver for farmers, withdrawal of cases filed against farmers during the 2020-21 protest, the implementation of Swaminathan Commission's formula and pension for farmers and labourers. Various unions have been spearheading the farmer's protest 2.0 as the landscape of the farmers' unions has changed in the last few years. Delhi Chalo 2.0 has been announced by Samyukt Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. Samyukt Kisan Morcha and Bhartiya Kisan Union, which led the 2020 protest of the farmers, went through several factionalisms. Watch: Farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' March: Thousands of agitating farmers en route to Delhi Rakesh Tikait and Gurnam Singh Charuni were the two main leaders who led the 2020 protest. However, they have been missing from the current protest. Sarwan Singh Pandher, general secretary of Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee and Jagjit Singh Dallewal, leader of SKM (non-political) are at the forefront currently. In 2020, the farmers had entered the national capital. However, this time the administration has adopted strict pre-emptive measures to stop them from entering Delhi. They have used nails on roads, cement barricades and barbed wire to block all roads to Delhi. The government has imposed Section 144 across the capital. The Haryana government has also sealed its borders along with Punjab. The negotiation process before the start of the farmers' Delhi Chalo march was initiated by the government. (With inputs from agencies)

Farmers protest: Kejriwal government declines Centre's appeal to turn stadium into jail

The Indian Coast Guard Ship Vikram on Monday (Feb 12) rescued a fishing boat with 11 crew members of IFB King (IND-TN-12-MM-6466) on board, off the coast of Minicoy Island in the Arabian Sea.

The ones aboard the boat were stranded at high seas due to engine failure since February 5.&nbsp;

The vessel was safely towed from 280 nautical miles west of Minicoy Island and handed over to ICGS Minicoy, said the official.

The collaborative efforts with the Fisheries Department ensured the boat's shelter at Minicoy Harbour, the official further added.

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Indian Coast Guard Ship Vikram rescued 11 crew members of IFB King (IND-TN-12-MM-6466) stranded at high seas due to engine failure since 05 February. The boat was safely towed from 280 nautical miles West of Minicoy Island and handed over to ICGS Minicoy: ICG officials <a href="https://t.co/mXGdRFei5e">pic.twitter.com/mXGdRFei5e</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1756862650951053442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"Indian Coast Guard Ship Vikram rescued 11 crew members of IFB King (IND-TN-12-MM-6466) stranded at high seas due to engine failure since February 5. The boat was safely towed from 280 nautical miles west of Minicoy Island and handed over to ICGS Minicoy," ICG officials said.

In December 2023, the Indian Coast Guard ship Vikram rescued another India-bound merchant vessel after it was targeted by a drone to native shores in the Arabian Sea, said an official.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-haryana-government-converts-two-stadiums-into-makeshift-prisons-ahead-of-farmers-march-689356">India: Haryana government converts two stadiums into makeshift prisons ahead of farmers' march</a>

<h2>Missile strike hits merchant ship off India’s coast&nbsp;</h2>

Earlier, on Dec 23, a missile strike damaged MV Chem Pluto off India's coast, which was carrying crude oil and was heading towards Mangalore from a port in Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

The Indian Navy, responding to the missile strike incident that occurred in the Arabian Sea on MT Chem Pluto on Saturday (Dec 23), diverted a maritime patrol aircraft operating in the area while undertaking routine surveillance.&nbsp;

It also diverted the Indian naval ship Mormugao to assess the situation and provide assistance to MT Chem Pluto.

"The naval maritime patrol aircraft overflew MT Chem Pluto at 1315 h on 23 Dec and established contact with the crew. The crew reported all 22 crew members to be safe and that the fire had been extinguished. Navy also communicated details of the developing situation to all Indian maritime agencies for rendering necessary assistance," the Indian Navy said in a statement.

"Indian Naval Ship Mormugao communicated with MT Chem Pluto at 1930 h on 23 Dec 23 to ascertain if any assistance was required. CGS Vikram, also present at the scene, was directed to escort the vessel to Mumbai. Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialist will be embarking MV Chem Pluto on arrival at Mumbai to sanitise the vessel and undertake further investigation," it further said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Coast Guard Ship Vikram on Monday (Feb 12) rescued a fishing boat with 11 crew members of IFB King (IND-TN-12-MM-6466) on board, off the coast of Minicoy Island in the Arabian Sea.

The Indian Coast Guard Ship Vikram on Monday (Feb 12) rescued a fishing boat with 11 crew members of IFB King (IND-TN-12-MM-6466) on board, off the coast of Minicoy Island in the Arabian Sea. The ones aboard the boat were stranded at high seas due to engine failure since February 5. The vessel was safely towed from 280 nautical miles west of Minicoy Island and handed over to ICGS Minicoy, said the official. The collaborative efforts with the Fisheries Department ensured the boat's shelter at Minicoy Harbour, the official further added. Indian Coast Guard Ship Vikram rescued 11 crew members of IFB King (IND-TN-12-MM-6466) stranded at high seas due to engine failure since 05 February. The boat was safely towed from 280 nautical miles West of Minicoy Island and handed over to ICGS Minicoy: ICG officials pic.twitter.com/mXGdRFei5e — ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2024 × "Indian Coast Guard Ship Vikram rescued 11 crew members of IFB King (IND-TN-12-MM-6466) stranded at high seas due to engine failure since February 5. The boat was safely towed from 280 nautical miles west of Minicoy Island and handed over to ICGS Minicoy," ICG officials said. In December 2023, the Indian Coast Guard ship Vikram rescued another India-bound merchant vessel after it was targeted by a drone to native shores in the Arabian Sea, said an official. Also read: India: Haryana government converts two stadiums into makeshift prisons ahead of farmers' march Missile strike hits merchant ship off India’s coast Earlier, on Dec 23, a missile strike damaged MV Chem Pluto off India's coast, which was carrying crude oil and was heading towards Mangalore from a port in Saudi Arabia. The Indian Navy, responding to the missile strike incident that occurred in the Arabian Sea on MT Chem Pluto on Saturday (Dec 23), diverted a maritime patrol aircraft operating in the area while undertaking routine surveillance. It also diverted the Indian naval ship Mormugao to assess the situation and provide assistance to MT Chem Pluto. "The naval maritime patrol aircraft overflew MT Chem Pluto at 1315 h on 23 Dec and established contact with the crew. The crew reported all 22 crew members to be safe and that the fire had been extinguished. Navy also communicated details of the developing situation to all Indian maritime agencies for rendering necessary assistance," the Indian Navy said in a statement. "Indian Naval Ship Mormugao communicated with MT Chem Pluto at 1930 h on 23 Dec 23 to ascertain if any assistance was required. CGS Vikram, also present at the scene, was directed to escort the vessel to Mumbai. Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialist will be embarking MV Chem Pluto on arrival at Mumbai to sanitise the vessel and undertake further investigation," it further said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Coast Guard Ship Vikram rescues 11 from stranded vessel

Ahead of the farmers' call for march to India's capital Delhi on February 13,&nbsp;Haryana's Manohar Lal Khattar-led government on Saturday (Feb 10) announced the suspension of internet services in several districts.

As per the notification released by the state government, the mobile internet, bulk SMS and all dongle services will be blocked in seven districts till Tuesday, when the farmers are scheduled to stage their protest. The suspension of the services will be in force starting Sunday (Feb 11).

According to an official order, mobile internet services will remain suspended in--Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad and Sirsa--from 6 am on February 11 till 11.59 pm on February 13.

<img alt="Haryana Government orders" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3e856d4d-2b4f-4d2d-b957-ed57bd585211" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/GF_psAmXAAA6YMk.jpg" />

Security has been heightened in Jind, Haryana ahead of the planned 'Delhi Chalo' march called by&nbsp;the farmers.

In response to calls from farmer organisations to march to the nation's capital, Jind Police issued a traffic advisory as part of a precautionary measure for the ones travelling.&nbsp;

The police have advised commuters to use the main roads of the state only in the case of emergency on the day of the planned protest.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-tried-to-replicate-1962-war-with-india-home-minister-amit-shah-689012">China tried to replicate 1962 war with India: Home Minister Amit Shah</a>

<h2>Authorities lay barricades, iron nails to stop protesting farmers</h2>

Meanwhile, several videos have been doing rounds on social media showing authorities laying barricades, and iron nails at&nbsp;state borders in order to prevent&nbsp;farmers from executing their scheduled protest.

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Farmers are coming to Delhi on 13th February. 
 
Keeping this in mind, the Govt has laid nails on the path of the farmers, The border has also been sealed. 
 
Internet will remain closed in many districts on the order's of BJP Govt of Haryana. <a href="https://t.co/RM7d3ofL2t">pic.twitter.com/RM7d3ofL2t</a>
— هارون خان (@iamharunkhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamharunkhan/status/1756359627397312638?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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As per news agency ANI, the police have blocked one side of the Patiala-Delhi national highway at the Data Singhwala-Khanauri border and deputed a heavy police force including women personnel.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Police barricading at Ghazipur border, ahead of the farmers' call for march to Delhi on 13th February. <a href="https://t.co/CAfbgzPsyY">pic.twitter.com/CAfbgzPsyY</a>
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Higher officials including Hisar range Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Matta Ravi Kiran have asked local police officials to ensure a ban on entry of Punjab farmers in Delhi on Feb 13.

SHO Joginder Singh said, "Barricading is being done here so that they can't advance any further. Three-layer barricading is being done."

(With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of the farmers' call for march to India's capital Delhi on February 13, Haryana's Manohar Lal Khattar-led government on Saturday (Feb 10) announced the suspension of internet services in several districts.

Ahead of the farmers' call for march to India's capital Delhi on February 13, Haryana's Manohar Lal Khattar-led government on Saturday (Feb 10) announced the suspension of internet services in several districts. As per the notification released by the state government, the mobile internet, bulk SMS and all dongle services will be blocked in seven districts till Tuesday, when the farmers are scheduled to stage their protest. The suspension of the services will be in force starting Sunday (Feb 11). According to an official order, mobile internet services will remain suspended in--Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad and Sirsa--from 6 am on February 11 till 11.59 pm on February 13. Security has been heightened in Jind, Haryana ahead of the planned 'Delhi Chalo' march called by the farmers. In response to calls from farmer organisations to march to the nation's capital, Jind Police issued a traffic advisory as part of a precautionary measure for the ones travelling. The police have advised commuters to use the main roads of the state only in the case of emergency on the day of the planned protest. Also read: China tried to replicate 1962 war with India: Home Minister Amit Shah Authorities lay barricades, iron nails to stop protesting farmers Meanwhile, several videos have been doing rounds on social media showing authorities laying barricades, and iron nails at state borders in order to prevent farmers from executing their scheduled protest. Farmers are coming to Delhi on 13th February. Keeping this in mind, the Govt has laid nails on the path of the farmers, The border has also been sealed. Internet will remain closed in many districts on the order's of BJP Govt of Haryana. pic.twitter.com/RM7d3ofL2t — هارون خان (@iamharunkhan) February 10, 2024 × As per news agency ANI, the police have blocked one side of the Patiala-Delhi national highway at the Data Singhwala-Khanauri border and deputed a heavy police force including women personnel. #WATCH | Delhi: Police barricading at Ghazipur border, ahead of the farmers' call for march to Delhi on 13th February. pic.twitter.com/CAfbgzPsyY — ANI (@ANI) February 11, 2024 × Higher officials including Hisar range Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Matta Ravi Kiran have asked local police officials to ensure a ban on entry of Punjab farmers in Delhi on Feb 13. SHO Joginder Singh said, "Barricading is being done here so that they can't advance any further. Three-layer barricading is being done." (With inputs from agencies)

India: Haryana government suspends internet services in several districts ahead of farmers' march

Departures from one of Delhi Airport's runways were halted for fifteen minutes after an IndiGo flight from Amritsar missed the taxiway on Sunday (Feb 11).

As per the airport authorities, IndiGo flight 6E 2221, which departed from Amritsar for Delhi, missed the route to the taxiway after landing&nbsp;at the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA).

This interrupted the flight departures from Runway 28/10 for 15 minutes.

To clear the runway, Indigo had to tow its aircraft, which further led to delays in the departures, reported news agency ANI citing sources.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/reform-perform-transform-with-97-pc-efficiency-pm-modi-on-his-2nd-term-in-power-688957">PM Modi dubs his second term in power as ‘gamechanger’ for the country, economy</a>

The CAT III-enabled runway 28/10, after being closed for recarpeting and refurbishment, has recently been opened for operations.

Four runways, RW 09/27, RW 11R/29L, RW 11L/29R, and RW 10/28, are currently operational at the Delhi airport.

(With inputs from agencies)

Departures from one of Delhi Airport's runways were halted for fifteen minutes after an IndiGo flight from Amritsar missed the taxiway on Sunday (Feb 11). As per the airport authorities, IndiGo flight 6E 2221, which departed from Amritsar for Delhi, missed the route to the taxiway after landing at the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA).

Departures from one of Delhi Airport's runways were halted for fifteen minutes after an IndiGo flight from Amritsar missed the taxiway on Sunday (Feb 11). As per the airport authorities, IndiGo flight 6E 2221, which departed from Amritsar for Delhi, missed the route to the taxiway after landing at the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA). This interrupted the flight departures from Runway 28/10 for 15 minutes. To clear the runway, Indigo had to tow its aircraft, which further led to delays in the departures, reported news agency ANI citing sources. Also read: PM Modi dubs his second term in power as ‘gamechanger’ for the country, economy The CAT III-enabled runway 28/10, after being closed for recarpeting and refurbishment, has recently been opened for operations. Four runways, RW 09/27, RW 11R/29L, RW 11L/29R, and RW 10/28, are currently operational at the Delhi airport. (With inputs from agencies)

IndiGo flight from Amritsar misses taxiway at Delhi Airport; departures halted for 15 minutes

The Philippine Coast Guard has accused Chinese vessels of engaging in "dangerous" manoeuvres on Sunday (Feb 11) while on a nine-day patrol close to a reef off the coast of Southeast Asia.&nbsp;

The Philippine vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua was sent out early in the month of February to patrol waters surrounding Scarborough Shoal, which is a productive fishing area in the South China Sea, and also ensure the safety of Filipino fishermen.

China took the reef from the Philippines in the year 2012, and since then, it has been a flashpoint between both countries.

The Philippine Coast Guard released a statement saying that the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessels, during the patrol, "performed dangerous and blocking manoeuvres at sea against BRP Teresa Magbanua four times, with the CCG vessels crossing the bow of the PCG vessel twice".

The Philippine Coast Guard stated that its ship was also "shadowed" by four Chinese Coast Guard vessels "on more than 40 occasions".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-detects-eight-more-chinese-balloons-crossing-taiwan-strait-689074">Taiwan detects eight more Chinese balloons crossing Taiwan Strait</a>

The Coast Guard also observed what it called "four Chinese Maritime Militia vessels".

Videos that were released by the Philippine Coast Guard showed a Chinese Coast Guard vessel metres from the port beam of the BRP Teresa Magbanua before it crossed the path of the Filipino boat.

"Nevertheless, the PCG vessel professionally engaged both the CCG and CMM vessels through radio reiterating the clear and principled position of the Philippines in accordance with international law," the statement said.

Commenting on the accusations from the Philippines, the Chinese foreign ministry said that the Scarborough Shoal was their country's sovereign territory and that the Chinese coastguard activities were legal in that particular area.

"China requires the Philippines to respect China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests and stop maritime infringement activities. China will continue to firmly safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in accordance with the law," the ministry said as per news agency Reuters.

The incidents occurred two months following severe standoffs between China and the Philippines over disputed reefs in the South China Sea, during which Chinese ships fired water cannons at Philippine boats, leading to a collision between their vessels.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Philippine Coast Guard has accused Chinese vessels of engaging in "dangerous" manoeuvres on Sunday (Feb 11) while on a nine-day patrol close to a reef off the coast of Southeast Asia.

The Philippine Coast Guard has accused Chinese vessels of engaging in "dangerous" manoeuvres on Sunday (Feb 11) while on a nine-day patrol close to a reef off the coast of Southeast Asia. The Philippine vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua was sent out early in the month of February to patrol waters surrounding Scarborough Shoal, which is a productive fishing area in the South China Sea, and also ensure the safety of Filipino fishermen. China took the reef from the Philippines in the year 2012, and since then, it has been a flashpoint between both countries. The Philippine Coast Guard released a statement saying that the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessels, during the patrol, "performed dangerous and blocking manoeuvres at sea against BRP Teresa Magbanua four times, with the CCG vessels crossing the bow of the PCG vessel twice". The Philippine Coast Guard stated that its ship was also "shadowed" by four Chinese Coast Guard vessels "on more than 40 occasions". Also read: Taiwan detects eight more Chinese balloons crossing Taiwan Strait The Coast Guard also observed what it called "four Chinese Maritime Militia vessels". Videos that were released by the Philippine Coast Guard showed a Chinese Coast Guard vessel metres from the port beam of the BRP Teresa Magbanua before it crossed the path of the Filipino boat. "Nevertheless, the PCG vessel professionally engaged both the CCG and CMM vessels through radio reiterating the clear and principled position of the Philippines in accordance with international law," the statement said. Commenting on the accusations from the Philippines, the Chinese foreign ministry said that the Scarborough Shoal was their country's sovereign territory and that the Chinese coastguard activities were legal in that particular area. "China requires the Philippines to respect China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests and stop maritime infringement activities. China will continue to firmly safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in accordance with the law," the ministry said as per news agency Reuters. The incidents occurred two months following severe standoffs between China and the Philippines over disputed reefs in the South China Sea, during which Chinese ships fired water cannons at Philippine boats, leading to a collision between their vessels. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippine Coast Guard accuses Chinese vessels of ‘dangerous’ manoeuvres

India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday (Feb 9) said that the White Paper which was tabled by the government in Parliament was a "serious document" and showed the dedicated efforts by the Modi government to bring the economy "back on rails" after almost a decade of "economic mismanagement" of the UPA government.

Responding to the debate on the White Paper in Lok Sabha, Sitharaman spoke of the measures taken by the Modi government to bolster self-reliance in defence and also expedite environmental licenses for more rapid economic development.&nbsp;

"I challenge anyone who says this document is baseless. Everything is with evidence. I challenge anyone who says that we have kept the White Paper which has no proof," Sitharaman said amid interruptions by opposition members.

"The White Paper is a serious document for documentary evidence for everything that is said in it and prepared with an intention of informing the House of the 10 years' dedicated effort to get the government work in such a way that the economy is back on rails and also progress in such a way that our aspirations can be met," she added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bharat-ratna-to-chaudhary-charan-singh-a-true-champion-of-farmers-and-staunch-advocate-of-inclusive-growth-688664">Bharat Ratna to Chaudhary Charan Singh, a true 'champion of farmers' and staunch advocate of inclusive growth</a>

<h2>Govt is afraid of exponential growth in unemployment, says RSP leader</h2>

While RSP (Revolutionary Socialist Party) leader NK Premachandran launched a scathing attack against the BJP-led government accusing the party of releasing the White Paper in a bid to blame the UPA government for its failures ahead of the elections.

He said the government was afraid of "exponential growth in unemployment and spiralling price rise" urging the members to disapprove of the motion that was brought by the government.

The White Paper said that when the BJP-led government was formed in the year 2014, "the economy was in a fragile state, public finances were in bad shape, there was economic mismanagement and financial indiscipline, and there was widespread corruption"

"It was a crisis situation. The responsibility to mend the economy step by step and to put the governance systems in order was enormous. Our government refrained from bringing out a white paper on the poor state of affairs then. That would have given a negative narrative and shaken the confidence of all, including investors. The need of the hour was to give hope to the people, to attract investments, both domestic and global and to build support for the much-needed reforms. The government believed in 'nation-first' and not in 
scoring political points."

"Now that we have stabilised the economy and set it on a recovery and growth path, it is necessary to place in the public domain the seemingly insurmountable challenges - left behind as a legacy by the UPA Government," the White Paper said.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday (Feb 9) said that the White Paper which was tabled by the government in Parliament was a "serious document" and showed the dedicated efforts by the Modi government to bring the economy "back on rails" after almost a decade of "economic mismanagement" of the UPA government.

India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday (Feb 9) said that the White Paper which was tabled by the government in Parliament was a "serious document" and showed the dedicated efforts by the Modi government to bring the economy "back on rails" after almost a decade of "economic mismanagement" of the UPA government. Responding to the debate on the White Paper in Lok Sabha, Sitharaman spoke of the measures taken by the Modi government to bolster self-reliance in defence and also expedite environmental licenses for more rapid economic development. "I challenge anyone who says this document is baseless. Everything is with evidence. I challenge anyone who says that we have kept the White Paper which has no proof," Sitharaman said amid interruptions by opposition members. "The White Paper is a serious document for documentary evidence for everything that is said in it and prepared with an intention of informing the House of the 10 years' dedicated effort to get the government work in such a way that the economy is back on rails and also progress in such a way that our aspirations can be met," she added. Also read: Bharat Ratna to Chaudhary Charan Singh, a true 'champion of farmers' and staunch advocate of inclusive growth Govt is afraid of exponential growth in unemployment, says RSP leader While RSP (Revolutionary Socialist Party) leader NK Premachandran launched a scathing attack against the BJP-led government accusing the party of releasing the White Paper in a bid to blame the UPA government for its failures ahead of the elections. He said the government was afraid of "exponential growth in unemployment and spiralling price rise" urging the members to disapprove of the motion that was brought by the government. The White Paper said that when the BJP-led government was formed in the year 2014, "the economy was in a fragile state, public finances were in bad shape, there was economic mismanagement and financial indiscipline, and there was widespread corruption" "It was a crisis situation. The responsibility to mend the economy step by step and to put the governance systems in order was enormous. Our government refrained from bringing out a white paper on the poor state of affairs then. That would have given a negative narrative and shaken the confidence of all, including investors. The need of the hour was to give hope to the people, to attract investments, both domestic and global and to build support for the much-needed reforms. The government believed in 'nation-first' and not in scoring political points." "Now that we have stabilised the economy and set it on a recovery and growth path, it is necessary to place in the public domain the seemingly insurmountable challenges - left behind as a legacy by the UPA Government," the White Paper said. (With inputs from agencies)

'White Paper is serious document', says Indian FM Nirmala Sitharaman as she slams opposition in Parliament

The ₹777 crore ($93.6 million) Pragati Maidan Tunnel has been rendered beyond repair because of negligence, claim&nbsp;reports in the media. As senior official of the Delhi Public Works Department (PWD) while speaking to&nbsp;The Hindu said&nbsp;the delay in its completion, paired with negligence in&nbsp;maintenance, means that the tunnel now needs a "major revamp".

<h2>Pragati Maidan Tunnel</h2>

The tunnel was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as recently as June 2022, but&nbsp;not even two years in, the tunnel is not safe to commute.

"The tunnel at present is not safe for commuters. The condition is such that it cannot be repaired without a major revamp," the PWD official told the publication.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pet-dog-protects-owners-body-from-wild-animals-for-48-hours-amid-heavy-snow-watch-688293">Pet dog protects owner's body from wild animals for 48 hours amid heavy snow. Watch</a> 
&nbsp; 
The 1.3 km long tunnel and the five underpasses linking it are part of the Pragati Maidan Integrated Transit Corridor Project that aims to ease connectivity between central Delhi and Noida and Ghaziabad.

As per the report,&nbsp;the tunnel witnessed multiple closures due to waterlogging during floods last year. While&nbsp; another official said that the tunnel floods whenever the city receives moderate intensity&nbsp;rainfall.

"While all underground tunnels develop minor leakages, this particular tunnel was not repaired by the maintaining authority&nbsp;despite multiple communications to the company in the past two months," he said.

<h2>Show cause notice</h2>

The Delhi Public Works Department (PWD) has reportedly&nbsp;issued the project contractor Larsen and Turbo (L&amp;T) a show cause notice. In it, the authorities said that the company failed to complete the construction on time. They said that the project was expected to be completed by 2019, but was only inaugurated in 2022.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-union-government-gives-nod-to-establishment-of-supreme-court-regional-benches-688345">Indian union government gives nod to establishment of Supreme Court regional benches</a>

Asking L&amp;T to deposit a "minimum token amount of ₹500 crore," PWD also instructed the company to initiate repair work besides rectifying its defective design.&nbsp;

Furthermore, it warned that the company&nbsp;was liable under civil as well as criminal laws for evading responsibility of repairing and maintaining a construction that was agreed upon to have a design life of 100 years or more.

As per the report citing an L&amp;T spokesperson, the company has filed "a counter-claim of ₹500 crore" against the PWD.

(With inputs from agencies)

The ₹777 crore ($93.6 million) Pragati Maidan Tunnel has been rendered beyond repair because of negligence, claim reports in the media. As senior official of the Delhi Public Works Department (PWD) while speaking to The Hindu said the delay in its completion, paired with negligence in maintenance, means that the tunnel now needs a "major revamp".

The ₹777 crore ($93.6 million) Pragati Maidan Tunnel has been rendered beyond repair because of negligence, claim reports in the media. As senior official of the Delhi Public Works Department (PWD) while speaking to The Hindu said the delay in its completion, paired with negligence in maintenance, means that the tunnel now needs a "major revamp". Pragati Maidan Tunnel The tunnel was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as recently as June 2022, but not even two years in, the tunnel is not safe to commute. "The tunnel at present is not safe for commuters. The condition is such that it cannot be repaired without a major revamp," the PWD official told the publication. Also read | Pet dog protects owner's body from wild animals for 48 hours amid heavy snow. Watch The 1.3 km long tunnel and the five underpasses linking it are part of the Pragati Maidan Integrated Transit Corridor Project that aims to ease connectivity between central Delhi and Noida and Ghaziabad. As per the report, the tunnel witnessed multiple closures due to waterlogging during floods last year. While another official said that the tunnel floods whenever the city receives moderate intensity rainfall. "While all underground tunnels develop minor leakages, this particular tunnel was not repaired by the maintaining authority despite multiple communications to the company in the past two months," he said. Show cause notice The Delhi Public Works Department (PWD) has reportedly issued the project contractor Larsen and Turbo (L&T) a show cause notice. In it, the authorities said that the company failed to complete the construction on time. They said that the project was expected to be completed by 2019, but was only inaugurated in 2022. Also read | Indian union government gives nod to establishment of Supreme Court regional benches Asking L&T to deposit a "minimum token amount of ₹500 crore," PWD also instructed the company to initiate repair work besides rectifying its defective design. Furthermore, it warned that the company was liable under civil as well as criminal laws for evading responsibility of repairing and maintaining a construction that was agreed upon to have a design life of 100 years or more. As per the report citing an L&T spokesperson, the company has filed "a counter-claim of ₹500 crore" against the PWD. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi's Pragati Maidan Tunnel needs 'major revamp' due to seepage, design flaws

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