India's capital city on Thursday (Feb 8) witnessed massive traffic jams on the Delhi-Noida border due to heavy deployment of&nbsp;security personnel to inspect vehicles following a&nbsp;protest&nbsp;march called by&nbsp;Noida and Greater Noida farmers&nbsp;to the Parliament pressing for their demands.

Videos shared on social media showed vehicles snarling at the Chilla border amid heightened security.

"Heavy security arrangements have been made in different border entry points in the national capital. No one will be allowed to breach the law and order," a senior police officer said.

Heavy security forces, including&nbsp;paramilitary&nbsp;were also stationed along major entry points in order to maintain the law and order.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-takes-sarcastic-jibe-at-mallikarjun-kharge-after-congress-releases-black-paper-688166">PM Modi lauds predecessor Manmohan Singh in Rajya Sabha during farewell of retiring members</a>

<h2>Police impose CrPC section 144&nbsp;</h2>

Section 144 of the&nbsp;CrPC has also been imposed and all the borders&nbsp;sealed for 24 hours, said the police official.

Noida DIG, Additional CP (L&amp;O), Shivhari Meena spoke about the protest and said, "Section 144 has been imposed &amp; all the borders have been sealed for 24 hours. Heavy security deployment at all the borders. Arrangements have been made so that the people do not face any trouble. Security has been heightened. We are in talks with the farmers. All the vehicles are being checked."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Traffic snarls at Delhi-Noida, Chilla border as security is heightened, in view of the farmers' protest march <a href="https://t.co/Kr3jnpsFpI">pic.twitter.com/Kr3jnpsFpI</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1755480307153658096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Farmers march towards Parliament</h2>

Farmers on Thursday marched towards the Parliament in the national capital seeking their demands to be fulfilled.

They gathered outside the NTCP office in Noida and the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority's office under the banners of Sanyukt Kisan Morcha and Akhil Bhartiya Kisan Sabha.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | UP farmers marching towards Parliament stopped by police in Noida 
 
The farmers are protesting over their various demands including hiked compensation <a href="https://t.co/fwdQ2mVM4R">pic.twitter.com/fwdQ2mVM4R</a>
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&nbsp;

The farmers along with a hike in compensation, demand that the government must provide them with an equivalent compensation in lieu of land acquired from them for development projects.

While talking to the news agency ANI about the protest march, one of the farmers said, "Nobody listens to us, what should we do. It seems that we have been protesting for over 5 years now. We will take what is in our rights. We are not asking for anything extra, we are asking for what has already been passed. It is our right for the 10 per cent of abadi land."

In December last year, the farmers had held a mahapanchayat at the Noida Authority office.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

India's capital city on Thursday (Feb 8) witnessed massive traffic jams on the Delhi-Noida border due to heavy deployment of security personnel to inspect vehicles following a protest march called by Noida and Greater Noida farmers to the Parliament pressing for their demands.

India's capital city on Thursday (Feb 8) witnessed massive traffic jams on the Delhi-Noida border due to heavy deployment of security personnel to inspect vehicles following a protest march called by Noida and Greater Noida farmers to the Parliament pressing for their demands. Videos shared on social media showed vehicles snarling at the Chilla border amid heightened security. "Heavy security arrangements have been made in different border entry points in the national capital. No one will be allowed to breach the law and order," a senior police officer said. Heavy security forces, including paramilitary were also stationed along major entry points in order to maintain the law and order. Also read: PM Modi lauds predecessor Manmohan Singh in Rajya Sabha during farewell of retiring members Police impose CrPC section 144 Section 144 of the CrPC has also been imposed and all the borders sealed for 24 hours, said the police official. Noida DIG, Additional CP (L&O), Shivhari Meena spoke about the protest and said, "Section 144 has been imposed & all the borders have been sealed for 24 hours. Heavy security deployment at all the borders. Arrangements have been made so that the people do not face any trouble. Security has been heightened. We are in talks with the farmers. All the vehicles are being checked." #WATCH | Traffic snarls at Delhi-Noida, Chilla border as security is heightened, in view of the farmers' protest march pic.twitter.com/Kr3jnpsFpI — ANI (@ANI) February 8, 2024 × Farmers march towards Parliament Farmers on Thursday marched towards the Parliament in the national capital seeking their demands to be fulfilled. They gathered outside the NTCP office in Noida and the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority's office under the banners of Sanyukt Kisan Morcha and Akhil Bhartiya Kisan Sabha. #WATCH | UP farmers marching towards Parliament stopped by police in Noida The farmers are protesting over their various demands including hiked compensation pic.twitter.com/fwdQ2mVM4R — ANI (@ANI) February 8, 2024 × The farmers along with a hike in compensation, demand that the government must provide them with an equivalent compensation in lieu of land acquired from them for development projects. While talking to the news agency ANI about the protest march, one of the farmers said, "Nobody listens to us, what should we do. It seems that we have been protesting for over 5 years now. We will take what is in our rights. We are not asking for anything extra, we are asking for what has already been passed. It is our right for the 10 per cent of abadi land." In December last year, the farmers had held a mahapanchayat at the Noida Authority office. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Delhi-Noida border witnesses massive traffic jams as farmers gather in protest

The Enforcement Directorate approached Rouse Avenue Court and lodged a complaint against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday (Feb 3) for non-compliance with the summons issued to him in the Delhi liquor policy money laundering case.

The Delhi court after hearing the submissions on Saturday (Feb 7) decided on Feb 7 as the date to consider the latest complaint filed by ED and the hearing for the remaining submissions.

The complaint by ED before the Rouse Avenue court in New Delhi was filed under Section 190 (1)(a) Cr.P.C. r/w. Section 200 Cr.P.C., 1973 r/w. Section 174 IPC, 1860 r/w. Section 63 (4) of PMLA, 2002 for non-attendance in compliance with Section 50, PMLA, 2002.

The Delhi CM skipped the ED summons for the fifth time in connection with the money laundering probe related to irregularities in the Delhi excise policy 2021-22 case. The latest move by the agency comes after Kejriwal skipped the fourth summons on Jan 18.

Kejriwal has so far skipped four summons issued by the ED on Jan 18, Jan 3, Nov 2 and Dec 22, dubbing them "illegal and politically motivated".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-punjabs-governor-resigns-in-a-sudden-move-cites-personal-reasons-686671">India: Punjab governor resigns in a sudden move, cites 'personal reasons'</a>

<h2>'Police doing drama', says Kejriwal</h2>

Meanwhile, after crime branch officials issued notice to Kejriwal in connection with AAP's allegations against the BJP of "poaching AAP MLAs", the Aam Aadmi Party chief said that the Delhi police, instead of stopping crime in the national capital, was doing drama on the instructions of "political masters", which he stated resulted in the increase of crime rate.

In a post on X, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "I sympathize with the crime branch police officer. What is their fault? Their job is to stop crime in Delhi. But instead of stopping crime, this kind of drama is being done. That is why crime is increasing so much in Delhi. Their political masters are asking me that which AAP MLA was being tried to poach? But you know more than me? You know everything. Why only Delhi, do you know which MLAs from other parties and which governments were toppled in the last few years across the country? Then why this drama?"

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मुझे क्राइम ब्रांच के इस पुलिस ऑफिसर से सहानुभूति है। इनका क्या क़सूर है? इनका काम है दिल्ली में क्राइम रोकना। पर इनसे क्राइम रोकने की बजाय इस क़िस्म की नौटंकी करवाई जा रही है। इसीलिए दिल्ली में इतना क्राइम बढ़ रहा है। 
 
इनके पोलिटिकल आका मुझसे पूछ रहे हैं कि “आप” के किस किस MLA… <a href="https://t.co/vZegQRiizM">https://t.co/vZegQRiizM</a>
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1753739334417621074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

AAP has levied allegations against the ruling Bharatiya Janta Party of making an attempt to topple the elected Delhi government through a campaign called "Operation Lotus 2.0".

The Aam Aadmi Party leader Atishi claimed that the BJP had approached many AAP MLAs with bribes and threats with an aim to induce defection.

"BJP has started 'Operation Lotus 2.0', and is trying to topple the democratically elected AAP government in Delhi. 7 MLAs of the AAP have been contacted by the BJP, and have been told, that Arvind Kejriwal will be arrested soon, after which AAP MLAs will be rifted apart. They are in touch with 21 of our MLAs, using whom they aim to topple the Delhi government. Those 7 MLAs have been offered Rs 25 crores each. Operation Lotus is the tactic used by the BJP to come into power in states, where they are not democratically elected. Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Arunachal Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh are examples," the AAP leader said.

(With the inputs from agencies)

The Enforcement Directorate approached Rouse Avenue Court and lodged a complaint against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday (Feb 3) for non-compliance with the summons issued to him in the Delhi liquor policy money laundering case.

The Enforcement Directorate approached Rouse Avenue Court and lodged a complaint against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday (Feb 3) for non-compliance with the summons issued to him in the Delhi liquor policy money laundering case. The Delhi court after hearing the submissions on Saturday (Feb 7) decided on Feb 7 as the date to consider the latest complaint filed by ED and the hearing for the remaining submissions. The complaint by ED before the Rouse Avenue court in New Delhi was filed under Section 190 (1)(a) Cr.P.C. r/w. Section 200 Cr.P.C., 1973 r/w. Section 174 IPC, 1860 r/w. Section 63 (4) of PMLA, 2002 for non-attendance in compliance with Section 50, PMLA, 2002. The Delhi CM skipped the ED summons for the fifth time in connection with the money laundering probe related to irregularities in the Delhi excise policy 2021-22 case. The latest move by the agency comes after Kejriwal skipped the fourth summons on Jan 18. Kejriwal has so far skipped four summons issued by the ED on Jan 18, Jan 3, Nov 2 and Dec 22, dubbing them "illegal and politically motivated". Also read: India: Punjab governor resigns in a sudden move, cites 'personal reasons' 'Police doing drama', says Kejriwal Meanwhile, after crime branch officials issued notice to Kejriwal in connection with AAP's allegations against the BJP of "poaching AAP MLAs", the Aam Aadmi Party chief said that the Delhi police, instead of stopping crime in the national capital, was doing drama on the instructions of "political masters", which he stated resulted in the increase of crime rate. In a post on X, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "I sympathize with the crime branch police officer. What is their fault? Their job is to stop crime in Delhi. But instead of stopping crime, this kind of drama is being done. That is why crime is increasing so much in Delhi. Their political masters are asking me that which AAP MLA was being tried to poach? But you know more than me? You know everything. Why only Delhi, do you know which MLAs from other parties and which governments were toppled in the last few years across the country? Then why this drama?" मुझे क्राइम ब्रांच के इस पुलिस ऑफिसर से सहानुभूति है। इनका क्या क़सूर है? इनका काम है दिल्ली में क्राइम रोकना। पर इनसे क्राइम रोकने की बजाय इस क़िस्म की नौटंकी करवाई जा रही है। इसीलिए दिल्ली में इतना क्राइम बढ़ रहा है। इनके पोलिटिकल आका मुझसे पूछ रहे हैं कि “आप” के किस किस MLA… https://t.co/vZegQRiizM — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) February 3, 2024 × AAP has levied allegations against the ruling Bharatiya Janta Party of making an attempt to topple the elected Delhi government through a campaign called "Operation Lotus 2.0". The Aam Aadmi Party leader Atishi claimed that the BJP had approached many AAP MLAs with bribes and threats with an aim to induce defection. "BJP has started 'Operation Lotus 2.0', and is trying to topple the democratically elected AAP government in Delhi. 7 MLAs of the AAP have been contacted by the BJP, and have been told, that Arvind Kejriwal will be arrested soon, after which AAP MLAs will be rifted apart. They are in touch with 21 of our MLAs, using whom they aim to topple the Delhi government. Those 7 MLAs have been offered Rs 25 crores each. Operation Lotus is the tactic used by the BJP to come into power in states, where they are not democratically elected. Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Arunachal Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh are examples," the AAP leader said. (With the inputs from agencies)

Enforcement Directorate files complaint against Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal after he skips 5th summons

A massive security breach occurred at India's Delhi airport on Saturday (Jan 27), after an intruder entered the airfield, the officials said on Sunday (Jan 28).

The shocking incident raised security concerns and prompted the authorities to take immediate measures in order to address the situation.

“An Air India pilot reported spotting an intruder around 11.30 pm as the flight landed safely and taxied to the parking bay,” according to airport officials.

“An Air India pilot reported to air traffic controllers (ATC) that a man had crossed in front of the aircraft during taxing. ATC promptly alerted the Airport Operation Control Centre (AOCC), leading to swift action by CISF, who apprehended the intruder and handed it over to local police,” a senior airport official told ANI.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-splash-soup-on-glass-protected-mona-lisa-in-paris-684508">Watch | Protesters splash soup at iconic Mona Lisa painting in Paris</a>

The officials said that the accused, hailing from Haryana, was arrested by Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel and handed over to the Delhi Police.

"The accused was produced in the court and was sent to judicial custody. Primary investigation revealed that the accused is a drug addict and hails from Haryana's Nuh district," Delhi Police said.

"Airport security under CISF and DIAL..No Delhi police security lapse…," police officials added.

The intruder scaled the perimeter wall of the Delhi airport and reached the runway before he was arrested.

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which is responsible for ensuring the security at ''hypersensitive'' Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, suspended a head constable on charges of dereliction of duty.

The incident took place a day after the Republic Day celebrations and&nbsp;Delhi Airport was on high alert because of&nbsp;the VVIP moment.

The officials further said that an investigation was underway.

“Authorities have treated the incident with utmost seriousness, categorising it as a massive security breach and taking extensive measures to address the matter,” the sources said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A massive security breach occurred at India's Delhi airport on Saturday (Jan 27), after an intruder entered the airfield, the officials said on Sunday (Jan 28). The shocking incident raised security concerns and prompted the authorities to take immediate measures in order to address the situation.

A massive security breach occurred at India's Delhi airport on Saturday (Jan 27), after an intruder entered the airfield, the officials said on Sunday (Jan 28). The shocking incident raised security concerns and prompted the authorities to take immediate measures in order to address the situation. “An Air India pilot reported spotting an intruder around 11.30 pm as the flight landed safely and taxied to the parking bay,” according to airport officials. “An Air India pilot reported to air traffic controllers (ATC) that a man had crossed in front of the aircraft during taxing. ATC promptly alerted the Airport Operation Control Centre (AOCC), leading to swift action by CISF, who apprehended the intruder and handed it over to local police,” a senior airport official told ANI. Also read: Watch | Protesters splash soup at iconic Mona Lisa painting in Paris The officials said that the accused, hailing from Haryana, was arrested by Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel and handed over to the Delhi Police. "The accused was produced in the court and was sent to judicial custody. Primary investigation revealed that the accused is a drug addict and hails from Haryana's Nuh district," Delhi Police said. "Airport security under CISF and DIAL..No Delhi police security lapse…," police officials added. The intruder scaled the perimeter wall of the Delhi airport and reached the runway before he was arrested. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which is responsible for ensuring the security at ''hypersensitive'' Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, suspended a head constable on charges of dereliction of duty. The incident took place a day after the Republic Day celebrations and Delhi Airport was on high alert because of the VVIP moment. The officials further said that an investigation was underway. “Authorities have treated the incident with utmost seriousness, categorising it as a massive security breach and taking extensive measures to address the matter,” the sources said. (With inputs from agencies)

Man enters Delhi airport runway in major security breach; CISF personnel suspended

At least one person was&nbsp;killed and 17 others&nbsp;injured after a stage&nbsp;collapsed during an event at the famous Kalkaji temple in Delhi early&nbsp;Sunday (Jan 28), reported news agency PTI, citing local police.&nbsp;

<h2>What we know so far</h2>

The stage that was&nbsp;reportedly made of wood and had an iron frame&nbsp;collapsed during a mata jagran at midnight on Saturday (Jan 27). The police said that no permission was granted to hold the event, but sufficient staff was deployed to maintain law and order.&nbsp;

The event saw the participation of 1500-1600 people, according to Delhi police. Soon after the incident, a&nbsp;crime team visited the spot and an investigation into the incident was ordered.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We got a call at around 12.30 am (local time) that a stage, which was set up for 'jagran' purpose, at Kalkaji temple, collapsed. Teams were rushed to the spot. One woman was declared dead. Further investigation is underway,” news agency PTI quoted a senior police officer as saying.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-seeks-donation-for-bharat-jodo-nyay-yatra-to-offer-rahul-gandhi-signed-merchandise-as-gift-in-return-684365">Congress seeks donation for Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, to offer Rahul Gandhi-signed merchandise as gift in return</a>

The police said the woman was rushed to the hospital by two people in an auto, but was pronounced dead upon arrival.

According to reports, several devotees climbed onto the stage after they got excited as the hymns were being sung which resulted in the collapse of the structure. Subsequently, chaos erupted with the devotees running amid a stampede-like situation.&nbsp;

Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. It may contain some profanity as well. Viewer discretion is advised. WION is not responsible for the content of the video.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | 17 people injured and one died when a platform, made of wood and iron frame, at a Mata Jagran at Mahant Parisar, Kalkaji Mandir collapsed at midnight on 27-28 January. Case registered against the organisers. 
 
(Video: Viral visuals confirmed by Fire Department) <a href="https://t.co/r6bE9dh3ds">https://t.co/r6bE9dh3ds</a> <a href="https://t.co/haaC9TZe4D">pic.twitter.com/haaC9TZe4D</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1751447993201648115?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The devotees were participating in a Hindu ritual called ‘Jagrata’ which includes singing, all-night vigils, hymns, dances and praying to Goddess Durga.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gyanvapi-dispute-all-india-muslim-personal-law-board-rejects-asi-report-says-it-is-no-conclusive-evidence-684371">Gyanvapi dispute: All India Muslim Personal Law Board rejects ASI report, says it is 'no conclusive evidence'</a>

The injured people were admitted to a hospital where they are currently undergoing treatment, and their condition is said to be stable. According to the police, a few suffered fractures.&nbsp;

<h2>Case registered against organisers</h2>

The Delhi police have registered a case under Sections 337, 304A, and 188 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) against the organisers of the event.

(With inputs from agencies)

At least one person was killed and 17 others injured after a stage collapsed during an event at the famous Kalkaji temple in Delhi early Sunday (Jan 28), reported news agency PTI, citing local police.

At least one person was killed and 17 others injured after a stage collapsed during an event at the famous Kalkaji temple in Delhi early Sunday (Jan 28), reported news agency PTI, citing local police. What we know so far The stage that was reportedly made of wood and had an iron frame collapsed during a mata jagran at midnight on Saturday (Jan 27). The police said that no permission was granted to hold the event, but sufficient staff was deployed to maintain law and order. The event saw the participation of 1500-1600 people, according to Delhi police. Soon after the incident, a crime team visited the spot and an investigation into the incident was ordered. “We got a call at around 12.30 am (local time) that a stage, which was set up for 'jagran' purpose, at Kalkaji temple, collapsed. Teams were rushed to the spot. One woman was declared dead. Further investigation is underway,” news agency PTI quoted a senior police officer as saying. ALSO READ | Congress seeks donation for Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, to offer Rahul Gandhi-signed merchandise as gift in return The police said the woman was rushed to the hospital by two people in an auto, but was pronounced dead upon arrival. According to reports, several devotees climbed onto the stage after they got excited as the hymns were being sung which resulted in the collapse of the structure. Subsequently, chaos erupted with the devotees running amid a stampede-like situation. Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. It may contain some profanity as well. Viewer discretion is advised. WION is not responsible for the content of the video. #WATCH | Delhi | 17 people injured and one died when a platform, made of wood and iron frame, at a Mata Jagran at Mahant Parisar, Kalkaji Mandir collapsed at midnight on 27-28 January. Case registered against the organisers. (Video: Viral visuals confirmed by Fire Department) https://t.co/r6bE9dh3ds pic.twitter.com/haaC9TZe4D — ANI (@ANI) January 28, 2024 × The devotees were participating in a Hindu ritual called ‘Jagrata’ which includes singing, all-night vigils, hymns, dances and praying to Goddess Durga. ALSO READ | Gyanvapi dispute: All India Muslim Personal Law Board rejects ASI report, says it is 'no conclusive evidence' The injured people were admitted to a hospital where they are currently undergoing treatment, and their condition is said to be stable. According to the police, a few suffered fractures. Case registered against organisers The Delhi police have registered a case under Sections 337, 304A, and 188 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) against the organisers of the event. (With inputs from agencies)

India: One killed, 17 injured after stage collapses during event at Delhi's Kalkaji temple

As India gears up to celebrate the 75th Republic Day, dense fog in the national capital may affect visibility during the parade and celebrations, said the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The&nbsp;weather department has predicted moderate to dense fog conditions&nbsp;in parts of Delhi during&nbsp;the early hours of Friday (Jan 26) which might affect visibility&nbsp;and issued&nbsp;an 'orange alert'.

<h2>Cold weather and dense fog</h2>

The IMD said people would see only up to 400 metres until 8:30 am (local time) due to the foggy weather. However, the conditions are expected to improve as the day progresses.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;PM Modi &amp; President Macron hold joint roadshow in India's Jaipur city

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The visibility levels may improve to between 500 to 800 metres from 10:00 am (local time) and by the time the Republic Day parade begins at Kartavya Path, the fog would further dissipate with conditions improving to 1,500 metres by 10:30 am (local time).

This blinding layer of fog has partially been attributed to the absence of active western disturbances – originating in the Mediterranean region and bringing unseasonal rainfall to the northwest part of the country.&nbsp;

According to the IMD, the minimum temperature in New Delhi is likely to settle in the range of five to seven degrees Celsius&nbsp;on Friday. The maximum may range between 17 to 20 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

<h2>What about the surrounding area?</h2>

Cold weather conditions and dense fog have also been predicted in parts of other Indian states surrounding the national capital, including Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-gifts-replica-of-ram-temple-to-french-president-emmanuel-macron-683693">Indian PM Modi gifts replica of Ram Temple to French President Emmanuel Macron</a>

On Thursday (Jan 25), New Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 4.8 degrees Celsius, according to the IMD, which is around three notches below its seasonal average.&nbsp;

<h2>Republic Day Parade&nbsp;</h2>

This year&nbsp;India will celebrate its 75th Republic Day and&nbsp;commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India in 1950.&nbsp;Like every year, there will be a grand Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path in the Indian capital.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/padma-awards-2024-declared-on-indian-republic-day-eve-full-list-of-awardees-683648">Padma Awards 2024 declared on Indian Republic Day Eve: Full list of awardees</a>

The theme for the Republic Day Parade 2024 is "Viksit Bharat" and "Bharat: Loktantra Ki Matruka." It will showcase the position of India as a promoter of democracy.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

As India gears up to celebrate the 75th Republic Day, dense fog in the national capital may affect visibility during the parade and celebrations, said the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

As India gears up to celebrate the 75th Republic Day, dense fog in the national capital may affect visibility during the parade and celebrations, said the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The weather department has predicted moderate to dense fog conditions in parts of Delhi during the early hours of Friday (Jan 26) which might affect visibility and issued an 'orange alert'. Cold weather and dense fog The IMD said people would see only up to 400 metres until 8:30 am (local time) due to the foggy weather. However, the conditions are expected to improve as the day progresses. WATCH | PM Modi & President Macron hold joint roadshow in India's Jaipur city The visibility levels may improve to between 500 to 800 metres from 10:00 am (local time) and by the time the Republic Day parade begins at Kartavya Path, the fog would further dissipate with conditions improving to 1,500 metres by 10:30 am (local time). This blinding layer of fog has partially been attributed to the absence of active western disturbances – originating in the Mediterranean region and bringing unseasonal rainfall to the northwest part of the country. According to the IMD, the minimum temperature in New Delhi is likely to settle in the range of five to seven degrees Celsius on Friday. The maximum may range between 17 to 20 degrees Celsius. What about the surrounding area? Cold weather conditions and dense fog have also been predicted in parts of other Indian states surrounding the national capital, including Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. ALSO READ | Indian PM Modi gifts replica of Ram Temple to French President Emmanuel Macron On Thursday (Jan 25), New Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 4.8 degrees Celsius, according to the IMD, which is around three notches below its seasonal average. Republic Day Parade This year India will celebrate its 75th Republic Day and commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India in 1950. Like every year, there will be a grand Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path in the Indian capital. ALSO READ | Padma Awards 2024 declared on Indian Republic Day Eve: Full list of awardees The theme for the Republic Day Parade 2024 is "Viksit Bharat" and "Bharat: Loktantra Ki Matruka." It will showcase the position of India as a promoter of democracy. (With inputs from agencies)

India Republic Day 2024: IMD issues 'orange alert', warns of dense fog, very low visibility in Delhi

A Delhi court has sentenced a woman to 10 years rigorous imprisonment for aggravated penetrative sexual assault on a four-year-old girl in 2016, saying it caused immense mental trauma to the victim and her parents.

Additional Sessions Judge Kumar Rajat was hearing the case against Shashi, who was convicted of offences under Section 6 (aggravated penetrative sexual assault) of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section 354 (assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty).

Watch | India: Congress workers clash with Assam police as INC denied entry in Guwahati

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Convicting the woman of “committing penetrative sexual assault with the minor victim by applying her mouth on the vaginal area of the victim,” the court, in a recent verdict, said the act caused “immense mental trauma to the victim and her parents.” It said there was no definite formula for imposing the quantum of sentence and it was contingent on the facts and circumstances of the case, the nature of the crime, how it was planned and committed, its motive, the conduct of the convict and all other attending circumstances.

“The object and basic purpose of sentencing is that the offender should not go unpunished and justice be done to victim of crime and the society,” the court said.

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It noted the aggravating circumstances, which included the nature of the offence, and the mitigating circumstances like the convict’s poor socio-economic background, the fact that she was the sole bread-earner in the family having no property, and her medical ailments.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-man-comes-down-bridge-after-cops-promise-him-biryani-and-job-682916">Kolkata: Man decides not to jump off bridge after cops offer him biryani and job</a>

The court said the convict would only be sentenced under Section 6 of the POCSO Act as it was “higher in degree.” It then sentenced her to rigorous imprisonment for 10 years and imposed a fine of Rs 16,000.&nbsp;

A Delhi court has sentenced a woman to 10 years rigorous imprisonment for aggravated penetrative sexual assault on a four-year-old girl in 2016, saying it caused immense mental trauma to the victim and her parents.

A Delhi court has sentenced a woman to 10 years rigorous imprisonment for aggravated penetrative sexual assault on a four-year-old girl in 2016, saying it caused immense mental trauma to the victim and her parents. Additional Sessions Judge Kumar Rajat was hearing the case against Shashi, who was convicted of offences under Section 6 (aggravated penetrative sexual assault) of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section 354 (assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty). Watch | India: Congress workers clash with Assam police as INC denied entry in Guwahati × Convicting the woman of “committing penetrative sexual assault with the minor victim by applying her mouth on the vaginal area of the victim,” the court, in a recent verdict, said the act caused “immense mental trauma to the victim and her parents.” It said there was no definite formula for imposing the quantum of sentence and it was contingent on the facts and circumstances of the case, the nature of the crime, how it was planned and committed, its motive, the conduct of the convict and all other attending circumstances. “The object and basic purpose of sentencing is that the offender should not go unpunished and justice be done to victim of crime and the society,” the court said. Also Read | Myanmar military plane skids off runway on airport in India’s Mizoram, eight injured It noted the aggravating circumstances, which included the nature of the offence, and the mitigating circumstances like the convict’s poor socio-economic background, the fact that she was the sole bread-earner in the family having no property, and her medical ailments. Also Read | Kolkata: Man decides not to jump off bridge after cops offer him biryani and job The court said the convict would only be sentenced under Section 6 of the POCSO Act as it was “higher in degree.” It then sentenced her to rigorous imprisonment for 10 years and imposed a fine of Rs 16,000.

India: Woman sent to 10 years in prison for sexually assaulting four-year-old girl

Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal, on Thursday (Jan 18) called the summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for questioning in the alleged Delhi excise policy case “illegal”. He also said that the notices were a part of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) vendetta against him ahead of the upcoming general elections.&nbsp;

<h2>Summons ignored for fourth time</h2>

This is the fourth time that the Delhi CM has skipped the ED&nbsp;summon&nbsp;over the past few&nbsp;months after he was asked to appear before the agency for questioning on Thursday.&nbsp;

“These four notices are illegal and invalid. Whenever such notices are sent by ED, they are quashed by the court,” said Kejriwal.&nbsp;

He added, “These notices are nothing but just political vendetta. An investigation was being done in this case for 2 years but they did not recover anything.”&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Probe agency ED refutes AAP leaders' claim of Kejriwal's likely arrest

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The statement comes amid reports of&nbsp;Delhi CM&nbsp;flying to Goa for a scheduled program between January 18 and 20.&nbsp;

The ED had issued a third summon&nbsp;to CM Kejriwal on December 22 last year, in connection with the case, asking him to appear before the agency on January 3. That time too, the AAP leader had called the notice&nbsp;“illegal.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ed-summons-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-for-fourth-time-in-excise-policy-case-679607">ED summons Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal for fourth time in excise policy case</a>

After skipping the third summon&nbsp;of the agency, Kejriwal in his reply expressed his readiness to cooperate with the investigation but declined to appear on the summoned date.&nbsp;

Kejriwal earlier skipped the ED summons on January 3, citing Rajya Sabha polls and Republic Day preparations in the Indian capital city.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Politically motivated’</h2>

AAP leaders have&nbsp;repeatedly claimed the BJP wants the Delhi CM to be arrested so that he cannot campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-excise-policy-scam-cases-sc-rejects-bail-pleas-of-ex-deputy-cm-manish-sisodia-652919">Delhi excise policy scam cases: India SC rejects bail pleas of ex-deputy CM Manish Sisodia</a>

“Why have I been called 2 months before the Lok Sabha elections? ED is being run by BJP...Their only intention is to arrest me so that I cannot campaign for the elections,” said Kejriwal, on Thursday.&nbsp;

The Delhi CM was issued the first summon&nbsp;by the ED in October last year when he was asked to appear by the central agency for questioning on November 2. The second was sent on December 18, asking him to appear before the central agency for questioning on December 21.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal, on Thursday (Jan 18) called the summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for questioning in the alleged Delhi excise policy case “illegal”.

Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal, on Thursday (Jan 18) called the summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for questioning in the alleged Delhi excise policy case “illegal”. He also said that the notices were a part of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) vendetta against him ahead of the upcoming general elections. Summons ignored for fourth time This is the fourth time that the Delhi CM has skipped the ED summon over the past few months after he was asked to appear before the agency for questioning on Thursday. “These four notices are illegal and invalid. Whenever such notices are sent by ED, they are quashed by the court,” said Kejriwal. He added, “These notices are nothing but just political vendetta. An investigation was being done in this case for 2 years but they did not recover anything.” WATCH | Probe agency ED refutes AAP leaders' claim of Kejriwal's likely arrest The statement comes amid reports of Delhi CM flying to Goa for a scheduled program between January 18 and 20. The ED had issued a third summon to CM Kejriwal on December 22 last year, in connection with the case, asking him to appear before the agency on January 3. That time too, the AAP leader had called the notice “illegal.” ALSO READ | ED summons Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal for fourth time in excise policy case After skipping the third summon of the agency, Kejriwal in his reply expressed his readiness to cooperate with the investigation but declined to appear on the summoned date. Kejriwal earlier skipped the ED summons on January 3, citing Rajya Sabha polls and Republic Day preparations in the Indian capital city. ‘Politically motivated’ AAP leaders have repeatedly claimed the BJP wants the Delhi CM to be arrested so that he cannot campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. ALSO READ | Delhi excise policy scam cases: India SC rejects bail pleas of ex-deputy CM Manish Sisodia “Why have I been called 2 months before the Lok Sabha elections? ED is being run by BJP...Their only intention is to arrest me so that I cannot campaign for the elections,” said Kejriwal, on Thursday. The Delhi CM was issued the first summon by the ED in October last year when he was asked to appear by the central agency for questioning on November 2. The second was sent on December 18, asking him to appear before the central agency for questioning on December 21. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi excise policy scam: Arvind Kejriwal ignores another ED summon, calls it 'political vendetta'

Cold weather conditions in the Indian capital New Delhi and surrounding area pushed peak winter power demand to an all-time high on Wednesday (January 10) morning. The power demand was at 5611 megawatts, reported Press Trust of India citing officials from power distribution companies.

The officials reportedly said that as per real-time data collected by State Load Dispatch Centre (SLDC) in Delhi, the peak power demand was reached at 11:08 am on Wednesday.

The previous all time high was recorded last Friday. It was 5559 MW.

Normally in New Delhi and the Nation Capital Region (NCR) power demand goes down in winter months, but in the coldest months (December and January) the demand shows an uptick as electricity consumers use power for heating purposes.

Watch | India: New milestone for Kashmir's winter wonderland, over 1 million visitors visit Gulmarg

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On Friday last week, minimum temperature in Delhi was recorded at 7.1 degrees Celsius. Monday was the coldest day of the month so far with temperatures dropping to 5.3 degrees Celsius.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-develops-new-and-ferocious-rifle-in-just-100-days-678666">India develops new and ferocious rifle in just 100 days</a>

Delhi state government has already extended winter break for primary school students till fifth grade. The officials have already declared that the winter break will go on till January 12.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-a-pillar-of-stability-trusted-friend-pm-modi-at-vibrant-gujarat-global-summit-2024-678546">India a pillar of stability, trusted friend: PM Modi at Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024</a>

Atishi, minister in Delhi state government took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) a few days ago to make the official announcement.

"Schools in Delhi will remain closed for the next 5 days due to the prevailing cold weather conditions, for students from Nursery to Class 5," she posted.

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Schools in Delhi will remain closed for the next 5 days due to the prevailing cold weather conditions, for students from Nursery to Class 5.
— Atishi (@AtishiAAP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AtishiAAP/status/1743850512553071074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Delhi along with other states in North India like Rajasthan, Haryana and Punjab are witnessing severe cold weather. India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that cold weather will persist for some time followed by rise in temperature.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Cold weather conditions in the Indian capital New Delhi and surrounding area pushed peak winter power demand to an all-time high on Wednesday (January 10) morning.

Cold weather conditions in the Indian capital New Delhi and surrounding area pushed peak winter power demand to an all-time high on Wednesday (January 10) morning. The power demand was at 5611 megawatts, reported Press Trust of India citing officials from power distribution companies. The officials reportedly said that as per real-time data collected by State Load Dispatch Centre (SLDC) in Delhi, the peak power demand was reached at 11:08 am on Wednesday. The previous all time high was recorded last Friday. It was 5559 MW. Normally in New Delhi and the Nation Capital Region (NCR) power demand goes down in winter months, but in the coldest months (December and January) the demand shows an uptick as electricity consumers use power for heating purposes. Watch | India: New milestone for Kashmir's winter wonderland, over 1 million visitors visit Gulmarg × On Friday last week, minimum temperature in Delhi was recorded at 7.1 degrees Celsius. Monday was the coldest day of the month so far with temperatures dropping to 5.3 degrees Celsius. Also Read | India develops new and ferocious rifle in just 100 days Delhi state government has already extended winter break for primary school students till fifth grade. The officials have already declared that the winter break will go on till January 12. Also Read | India a pillar of stability, trusted friend: PM Modi at Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024 Atishi, minister in Delhi state government took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) a few days ago to make the official announcement. "Schools in Delhi will remain closed for the next 5 days due to the prevailing cold weather conditions, for students from Nursery to Class 5," she posted. Schools in Delhi will remain closed for the next 5 days due to the prevailing cold weather conditions, for students from Nursery to Class 5. — Atishi (@AtishiAAP) January 7, 2024 × Delhi along with other states in North India like Rajasthan, Haryana and Punjab are witnessing severe cold weather. India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that cold weather will persist for some time followed by rise in temperature. (With inputs from agencies)

Severe cold in Delhi takes power consumption to all-time high

Delhi government on Sunday announced that schools in the national capital will remain closed for students from nursery to fifth grade. Minister of Education of Delhi Atishi Marlena, said in a post on X, "Schools in Delhi will remain closed for the next 5 days due to the prevailing cold weather conditions, for students from Nursery to Class 5.

Delhi government on Sunday announced that schools in the national capital will remain closed for students from nursery to fifth grade. Minister of Education of Delhi Atishi Marlena, said in a post on X, "Schools in Delhi will remain closed for the next 5 days due to the prevailing cold weather conditions, for students from Nursery to Class 5." The decision comes a day after the Delhi government withdrew the order to extend the winter break till January 10 in the national capital. Delhi's Department of Education clarified that they issued the order by mistake and will make a decision about the matter on Sunday morning. In the reverted order, the Government of Delhi extended the winter break in all the government-aided and unaided recognised private schools of the national capital territory (NCT) till January 10, ANI reported. The administration decided in the light of "extreme cold waves and IMD's yellow alert" in the national capital. However, in an update, the Directorate of Education mentioned that they will issue orders on winter vacation in due course. The update stated, "Order No.DE.23(3)/Sch.Br./2024/18 dated: January 6, 2024, regarding the extension of Winter Vacation stands withdrawn with immediate effect. Further orders in this regard may be issued in due course." Cold Wave Tightens Grip Over Delhi The dense fog continued to blanket the national capital on Sunday. The predicted daytime peak temperature will be 20 degrees Celsius, and the expected minimum temperature will be nine degrees Celsius. However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said there may be a surge in temperature in Delhi and other parts of North India over the next two days. Moreover, western disturbances might bring light showers to the national capital on Tuesday. On Saturday, IMD officials said cold wave conditions will reduce on January 7. Schools Closed In Noida The district administration has ordered schools in Noida and Greater Noida to remain closed for students up to eighth grade till January 14 because of the dense fog and cold wave conditions. Basic Education Officer Rahul Panwar issued the order for all schools recognised by the state board, CBSE, ICSE, IB and others. "In compliance with the instructions given by District Magistrate Maneesh Kumar Verma, due to the dense fog and extreme cold, all the board (CBSE/ICSE IB, UP Board and others) affiliated schools (from Class nursery to 8) running in the district Gautam Buddh Nagar, will observe holiday till January 14," the order stated, adding that all schools must follow its strictly. West Uttar Pradesh has witnessed a drastic plunge in minimum temperatures in the last few days. In Gautam Buddh Nagar, the minimum temperature recorded was nine degrees Celsius on Saturday. According to the IMD forecast, the temperature will range between nine and 13 degrees Celsius over the next six days. Furthermore, IMD has issued a cold wave alert for West Uttar Pradesh, including Gautam Buddh Nagar. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Delhi schools to remain closed for next five days for THESE classes; See details

Northern India shivered under severe cold conditions on Thursday (Jan 4) as maximum temperatures across large tracts of the region remained several notches below the normal for the season — in the range of 12-18 degrees Celsius. The weather department predicted that no significant changes in the minimum temperatures are likely for the region during the next five days.

<h2>A cold day&nbsp;</h2>

Thursday was 'a cold day', as per the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). The temperatures were markedly below normal (-5.1&nbsp;°C or less) at most places over Punjab and at many places over Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi, West Rajasthan and West Madhya Pradesh. This, as per the weather office, was because of the persistent low cloud cover and absence of sunlight over the region.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/north-india-weather-26-trains-delayed-due-to-dense-fog-in-delhi-imd-issues-health-advisory-amid-cold-wave-676429">North India Weather: 26 trains delayed due to dense fog in Delhi, IMD issues health advisory amid cold wave</a>

According to the IMD, a 'cold day' is declared when and if the maximum temperature dips between 4.5-6.4 degrees below the normal for the season.

Meanwhile, if temperatures drop 6.5 degrees below normal for the season, the day is declared a 'severe cold day'. 
&nbsp; 
In the national capital, the maximum temperature recorded was of 12.5 degrees Celsius—6.8 degrees below normal—at Delhi's Safdarjung observatory. Elsewhere, in Haryana's Hisar, the temperature was recorded at 12 degrees Celsius, which again was 6.8 degrees below normal for the season. Punjab's Patiala recorded a 'severe cold say' clocking 10.5 degrees Celsius, which is a departure of 8.1 degrees from normal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-zero-cold-wave-days-in-december-2023-for-delhi-warmest-in-last-six-years-676184">India: For Delhi, there were zero 'cold wave' days in December 2023, warmest in last six years</a>

Kota in Rajasthan shivered at 14.1 degrees Celsius—eight&nbsp;notches below normal for the season, Madhya Pradesh's Bhopal recorded 7.3 degrees below normal at a maximum of 16.7 degrees Celsius.

<h2>Weather forecast</h2>

IMD predicted that from Sunday onwards, due to warm and moist south-westerly winds, the minimum and maximum temperatures will probably rise by 2–4 degrees.

Furthermore, parts of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, southern Haryana and southern Uttar Pradesh can expect a light to very light rainfall early next week, while parts of Punjab, Haryana, and north Rajasthan will labour under dense to very dense fog.

(With inputs from agencies)

Northern India shivered under severe cold conditions on Thursday (Jan 4) as maximum temperatures across large tracts of the region remained several notches below the normal for the season — in the range of 12-18 degrees Celsius.

Northern India shivered under severe cold conditions on Thursday (Jan 4) as maximum temperatures across large tracts of the region remained several notches below the normal for the season — in the range of 12-18 degrees Celsius. The weather department predicted that no significant changes in the minimum temperatures are likely for the region during the next five days. A cold day Thursday was 'a cold day', as per the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). The temperatures were markedly below normal (-5.1 °C or less) at most places over Punjab and at many places over Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi, West Rajasthan and West Madhya Pradesh. This, as per the weather office, was because of the persistent low cloud cover and absence of sunlight over the region. Also read | North India Weather: 26 trains delayed due to dense fog in Delhi, IMD issues health advisory amid cold wave According to the IMD, a 'cold day' is declared when and if the maximum temperature dips between 4.5-6.4 degrees below the normal for the season. Meanwhile, if temperatures drop 6.5 degrees below normal for the season, the day is declared a 'severe cold day'. In the national capital, the maximum temperature recorded was of 12.5 degrees Celsius—6.8 degrees below normal—at Delhi's Safdarjung observatory. Elsewhere, in Haryana's Hisar, the temperature was recorded at 12 degrees Celsius, which again was 6.8 degrees below normal for the season. Punjab's Patiala recorded a 'severe cold say' clocking 10.5 degrees Celsius, which is a departure of 8.1 degrees from normal. Also read | India: For Delhi, there were zero 'cold wave' days in December 2023, warmest in last six years Kota in Rajasthan shivered at 14.1 degrees Celsius—eight notches below normal for the season, Madhya Pradesh's Bhopal recorded 7.3 degrees below normal at a maximum of 16.7 degrees Celsius. Weather forecast IMD predicted that from Sunday onwards, due to warm and moist south-westerly winds, the minimum and maximum temperatures will probably rise by 2–4 degrees. Furthermore, parts of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, southern Haryana and southern Uttar Pradesh can expect a light to very light rainfall early next week, while parts of Punjab, Haryana, and north Rajasthan will labour under dense to very dense fog. (With inputs from agencies)

'Cold day': North India shivers as temperatures remain several notches below normal

India's Enforcement Directorate (ED) has been looking into the reply sent by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to the agency, after the latter rejected the third summons sent to him, and is likely to issue a fourth summons, reported the news agency PTI. 
 
The reports surfaced hours after New Delhi's ruling Aam Aadmi Party leaders claimed that Kejriwal is likely to be arrested on Thursday (Jan 4) and the ED&nbsp;will raid his home. According to PTI, Kejriwal will be leaving on a three-day Gujarat tour on January 6. 
 
In the early morning of Thursday, security was tightened outside Kejriwal's residence after AAP ministers Saurabh Bhardwaj and Atishi claimed that the AAP convenor is likely to be arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on&nbsp;January 4.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fresh-ed-summons-to-arvind-kejriwal-for-questioning-in-delhi-excise-policy-case-670959">Fresh ED summons to Arvind Kejriwal for questioning in Delhi excise policy case</a>

Kejriwal on Wednesday (Jan 3) refused to appear for questioning in the Delhi liquor policy case following a third summons by the agency.

<h2 lang="en-US">Aam Aadmi Party claims Kerjiwal likely to be arrested</h2>

Earlier, AAP leaders had claimed that Kejriwal is likely to be arrested after a raid at his home. 
 
&nbsp;Enforcement Directorate, which is the central agency investigating the money laundering angle, called Kejriwal for questioning multiple times. 
 
"News coming in that ED is going to raid @ArvindKejriwal's residence tmrw morning. Arrest likely," wrote senior party leader and Delhi minister Aatishi on X.

Similar posts were shared by senior party leaders Saurabh Bhardwaj, Jasmine Shah and Sandeep Pathak on their handles.

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News coming in that ED is going to raid <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArvindKejriwal</a>’s residence tmrw morning. Arrest likely.
— Atishi (@AtishiAAP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AtishiAAP/status/1742612025203884069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Watch:&nbsp;Delhi CM Kejriwal to attend INDIA bloc meet, to meet TMC Chief &amp; Uddhav Thackeray

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Kejriwal has been summoned thrice in the matter but he has refused to comply every time. The first summons was issued in October in which he was asked to appear on November 2. The&nbsp;second summons was sent on December 18 which asked Kejriwal to appear for questioning on December 21.&nbsp; 
 
As per the rules, the ED can issue a non-bailable warrant against him at any time and he can be arrested. 
 
The Central Bureau of Investigation had questioned the Delhi chief minister for nine hours in April 2023. However, they have not named him as an accused in the case. 
 
Kejriwal has insisted that the summons appear "motivated" and claims it remains unclear if they are calling him as a witness or a suspect in the case.

Earlier, Kejriwal, reacting on&nbsp;ED summons in a liquor police case, had said, "The truth is that there was no corruption."

"BJP wants to arrest me," he said, referring to the ruling party at the centre. 
 
"My biggest asset is my honesty &amp; they want to dent it. My lawyers have told me that summons sent to me are illegal. BJP's aim is not to probe me, but not to let me campaign for Lok Sabha elections. They want to call me on the pretext of investigation and then arrest me."

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Enforcement Directorate (ED) has been looking into the reply sent by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to the agency, after the latter rejected the third summons sent to him, and is likely to issue a fourth summons, reported the news agency PTI.

India's Enforcement Directorate (ED) has been looking into the reply sent by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to the agency, after the latter rejected the third summons sent to him, and is likely to issue a fourth summons, reported the news agency PTI. The reports surfaced hours after New Delhi's ruling Aam Aadmi Party leaders claimed that Kejriwal is likely to be arrested on Thursday (Jan 4) and the ED will raid his home. According to PTI, Kejriwal will be leaving on a three-day Gujarat tour on January 6. In the early morning of Thursday, security was tightened outside Kejriwal's residence after AAP ministers Saurabh Bhardwaj and Atishi claimed that the AAP convenor is likely to be arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on January 4. Also read: Fresh ED summons to Arvind Kejriwal for questioning in Delhi excise policy case Kejriwal on Wednesday (Jan 3) refused to appear for questioning in the Delhi liquor policy case following a third summons by the agency. Aam Aadmi Party claims Kerjiwal likely to be arrested Earlier, AAP leaders had claimed that Kejriwal is likely to be arrested after a raid at his home. Enforcement Directorate, which is the central agency investigating the money laundering angle, called Kejriwal for questioning multiple times. "News coming in that ED is going to raid @ArvindKejriwal's residence tmrw morning. Arrest likely," wrote senior party leader and Delhi minister Aatishi on X. Similar posts were shared by senior party leaders Saurabh Bhardwaj, Jasmine Shah and Sandeep Pathak on their handles. News coming in that ED is going to raid @ArvindKejriwal’s residence tmrw morning. Arrest likely. — Atishi (@AtishiAAP) January 3, 2024 × Watch: Delhi CM Kejriwal to attend INDIA bloc meet, to meet TMC Chief & Uddhav Thackeray Kejriwal has been summoned thrice in the matter but he has refused to comply every time. The first summons was issued in October in which he was asked to appear on November 2. The second summons was sent on December 18 which asked Kejriwal to appear for questioning on December 21. As per the rules, the ED can issue a non-bailable warrant against him at any time and he can be arrested. The Central Bureau of Investigation had questioned the Delhi chief minister for nine hours in April 2023. However, they have not named him as an accused in the case. Kejriwal has insisted that the summons appear "motivated" and claims it remains unclear if they are calling him as a witness or a suspect in the case. Earlier, Kejriwal, reacting on ED summons in a liquor police case, had said, "The truth is that there was no corruption." "BJP wants to arrest me," he said, referring to the ruling party at the centre. "My biggest asset is my honesty & they want to dent it. My lawyers have told me that summons sent to me are illegal. BJP's aim is not to probe me, but not to let me campaign for Lok Sabha elections. They want to call me on the pretext of investigation and then arrest me." (With inputs from agencies)

India: Amid reports of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's arrest, ED likely to issue fourth summons

Mukesh Aghi, President &amp; CEO of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF), has underscored the flourishing ties between the United States and India, shedding light on "bullish" sentiments of US investors on India. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Aghi stated, " relationship has gone in a very positive direction, in a win-win fashion for both countries. you have to understand that the relationship is deep, much broader, and much more strategic between India and the United States"

Highlighting the changing dynamics of global supply chains, Aghi noted, "US companies are looking at de-risking supply chain from China and India becomes a primary source from their perspective." Highlighting the significant participation of US companies in Vibrant Gujarat in January, Aghi projected a continued growth in investments, highlighting, "You have US companies creating almost three and a half million jobs in India which are High Tech, High End paying jobs."

He also spoke on President Biden not being able to attend India's Republic Day, the Nikhil Gupta case etc.

Here's the full interview.

WION: My first question to you is how do you see the India-US relationship if you can sum up how this year has been?

Mukesh Aghi: Well, I think the relationship has gone in a very positive direction, in a win-win fashion for both countries. If you look at it from a geopolitical perspective, India and the USA are aligned vis a vis China. When you look at it from an economic perspective, the trade has gone up almost $200 billion. When you look at it from a technology perspective, what we're seeing is the exports of Indian IT services and basically app platforms have gone up. And also, we've seen some critical technologies moving into India, specifically in the manufacturing arena. And then finally people to people, we have around 5 million Indian Americans in the US and they seem to work very positively building a very strong partnership between the two countries. So, I think the year 2023 shows how it has gone up as compared to the last 40-50 years.&nbsp;

WION: How much are the American investors, bullish on the India growth story?

Mukesh Aghi: Oh, very much, if you look at the largest FDI investors in India, are the US companies coming directly or to Singapore or to other countries? But more importantly, if you look at the last week, the FII investment went up almost by $15 billion. You have US companies creating almost three and a half million jobs in India which are high-tech, High End paying jobs. So the other factor which makes a very big difference, US companies are looking at de-risking the supply chain from China and India becomes a primary source from their perspective.

WION: Sir we know that India had invited the US President Joe Biden to be the chief guest on Republic Day Parade. Now that's not happening. We also saw the announcement by the US Ambassador Garcetti that India has extended the invite. Any reason you think that the visit got cancelled? The US president could not make it to the grand show that we see every year at the Kartavya Path.

Mukesh Aghi: Well, I think President Biden would have loved to come for the Republic Day parade, but you have to understand multiple factors. One is you have the State of the Union speech and trying to juggle that which is also again in the third week of January, and that becomes a challenging aspect. Second, you are going into the election mode. In the US that also becomes challenging. And then the crisis, which is taking place both in Ukraine and also in Gaza, basically binds the president to be here domestically, rather than travelling to a far distant geography such as India. I don't think there is any kind of intention or any kind of I would say lack of respect but it is more about trying to work the schedule out and I think the QUAD Summit has been postponed to a later date. So I think President Biden will come to India once we have been able to drive the schedule between the two countries, and also the remaining QUAD leaders.

WION: The relationship has grown leaps and bounds, but there are certain thorny issues as well. There are Khalistani extremists in the US that are troubling New Delhi and then there is the Nikhil Gupta case as well. Do you think that the Americans could have handled the Nikhil Gupta case better?

Mukesh Aghi: Well, you have to understand that the relationship is deep, much broader, and much more strategic between India and the United States. More important is there is maturity on both sides. The US respects India's decision on the purchase of Russian oil. Basically, the US accepted that and moved on. So, I believe there's maturity on both sides to be able to respect each other's positions and differences. In the case of Gupta, I think we have to understand the Justice Department functions very, very independently of the administration, especially in the southern district of New York State. And if you look, they have indicted President Biden's son. From that perspective, I think the position of the Justice Department does not reflect the position of the administration, which is focused on building the relationship and I believe that there's enough maturity on both sides, that the administration doesn't come out swinging at India in any manner, but basically saying that India is cooperating in finding a cause of this issue and I believe that they'll be able to solve this one out.

WION: Sir I believe that Vibrant Gujarat will see a lot of American investors' participation, perhaps your view of Vibrant Gujarat that happens in Gujarat, in the month of January in a few weeks from now?

Mukesh Aghi: Yeah, so we are leading a delegation of over 50 companies for Vibrant Gujarat. You know, this is one of the pioneering investment events which started in Gujarat and other states copied, it is an area to explore more &amp; more investment in Gujarat. &nbsp;So, what we will be looking at is more contact with the administrations including the Prime Minister in Gujarat. So, as I said earlier, the interest in India, and the investment in India from a US company continues to grow both from a de-risking from China and from market opportunity. So it is an event in which you will see a lot of US companies participating in the middle of January in Gujarat itself.

WION: Sir, my last question to you is, it's just not directly related to the India-US relationship but to the Red Sea situation that has implications on the global oil prices and the trade as well. What's your view? How do you see the crisis impacting the global economic sphere and of course, the crude oil prices?

Mukesh Aghi: So, I think it does impact the supply chain. When you have, let's say, a ship going from the Middle East, all the way down to Europe, normally through the Red Sea it takes 21 days. Now when you go around Africa and down to Europe, it'll take 42 days. The implications are multiple. One is you have containers basically being occupied but the goods are an extra 20-plus days, so the efficiency goes down, the cost goes up, and the insurance goes up. And when you look at it from an India perspective, India exports rice to other parts of Europe. It has an impact of 10% to 15% on the export side. It is impacting the oil, Indian oil which is coming from Russia will be impacted, from a price point perspective, from a logistic point perspective. So, it is disruptive. And we have seen the impact of that not only just on food prices going up, but oil prices going up in the United States and Europe. So, the disruption in the Red Sea will impact the food prices, the oil prices and overall inflation across the world.

Mukesh Aghi, President & CEO of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF), has underscored the flourishing ties between the United States and India, shedding light on "bullish" sentiments of US investors on India.

Mukesh Aghi, President & CEO of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF), has underscored the flourishing ties between the United States and India, shedding light on "bullish" sentiments of US investors on India. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Aghi stated, " relationship has gone in a very positive direction, in a win-win fashion for both countries. you have to understand that the relationship is deep, much broader, and much more strategic between India and the United States" Highlighting the changing dynamics of global supply chains, Aghi noted, "US companies are looking at de-risking supply chain from China and India becomes a primary source from their perspective." Highlighting the significant participation of US companies in Vibrant Gujarat in January, Aghi projected a continued growth in investments, highlighting, "You have US companies creating almost three and a half million jobs in India which are High Tech, High End paying jobs." He also spoke on President Biden not being able to attend India's Republic Day, the Nikhil Gupta case etc. Here's the full interview. WION: My first question to you is how do you see the India-US relationship if you can sum up how this year has been? Mukesh Aghi: Well, I think the relationship has gone in a very positive direction, in a win-win fashion for both countries. If you look at it from a geopolitical perspective, India and the USA are aligned vis a vis China. When you look at it from an economic perspective, the trade has gone up almost $200 billion. When you look at it from a technology perspective, what we're seeing is the exports of Indian IT services and basically app platforms have gone up. And also, we've seen some critical technologies moving into India, specifically in the manufacturing arena. And then finally people to people, we have around 5 million Indian Americans in the US and they seem to work very positively building a very strong partnership between the two countries. So, I think the year 2023 shows how it has gone up as compared to the last 40-50 years. WION: How much are the American investors, bullish on the India growth story? Mukesh Aghi: Oh, very much, if you look at the largest FDI investors in India, are the US companies coming directly or to Singapore or to other countries? But more importantly, if you look at the last week, the FII investment went up almost by $15 billion. You have US companies creating almost three and a half million jobs in India which are high-tech, High End paying jobs. So the other factor which makes a very big difference, US companies are looking at de-risking the supply chain from China and India becomes a primary source from their perspective. WION: Sir we know that India had invited the US President Joe Biden to be the chief guest on Republic Day Parade. Now that's not happening. We also saw the announcement by the US Ambassador Garcetti that India has extended the invite. Any reason you think that the visit got cancelled? The US president could not make it to the grand show that we see every year at the Kartavya Path. Mukesh Aghi: Well, I think President Biden would have loved to come for the Republic Day parade, but you have to understand multiple factors. One is you have the State of the Union speech and trying to juggle that which is also again in the third week of January, and that becomes a challenging aspect. Second, you are going into the election mode. In the US that also becomes challenging. And then the crisis, which is taking place both in Ukraine and also in Gaza, basically binds the president to be here domestically, rather than travelling to a far distant geography such as India. I don't think there is any kind of intention or any kind of I would say lack of respect but it is more about trying to work the schedule out and I think the QUAD Summit has been postponed to a later date. So I think President Biden will come to India once we have been able to drive the schedule between the two countries, and also the remaining QUAD leaders. WION: The relationship has grown leaps and bounds, but there are certain thorny issues as well. There are Khalistani extremists in the US that are troubling New Delhi and then there is the Nikhil Gupta case as well. Do you think that the Americans could have handled the Nikhil Gupta case better? Mukesh Aghi: Well, you have to understand that the relationship is deep, much broader, and much more strategic between India and the United States. More important is there is maturity on both sides. The US respects India's decision on the purchase of Russian oil. Basically, the US accepted that and moved on. So, I believe there's maturity on both sides to be able to respect each other's positions and differences. In the case of Gupta, I think we have to understand the Justice Department functions very, very independently of the administration, especially in the southern district of New York State. And if you look, they have indicted President Biden's son. From that perspective, I think the position of the Justice Department does not reflect the position of the administration, which is focused on building the relationship and I believe that there's enough maturity on both sides, that the administration doesn't come out swinging at India in any manner, but basically saying that India is cooperating in finding a cause of this issue and I believe that they'll be able to solve this one out. WION: Sir I believe that Vibrant Gujarat will see a lot of American investors' participation, perhaps your view of Vibrant Gujarat that happens in Gujarat, in the month of January in a few weeks from now? Mukesh Aghi: Yeah, so we are leading a delegation of over 50 companies for Vibrant Gujarat. You know, this is one of the pioneering investment events which started in Gujarat and other states copied, it is an area to explore more & more investment in Gujarat. So, what we will be looking at is more contact with the administrations including the Prime Minister in Gujarat. So, as I said earlier, the interest in India, and the investment in India from a US company continues to grow both from a de-risking from China and from market opportunity. So it is an event in which you will see a lot of US companies participating in the middle of January in Gujarat itself. WION: Sir, my last question to you is, it's just not directly related to the India-US relationship but to the Red Sea situation that has implications on the global oil prices and the trade as well. What's your view? How do you see the crisis impacting the global economic sphere and of course, the crude oil prices? Mukesh Aghi: So, I think it does impact the supply chain. When you have, let's say, a ship going from the Middle East, all the way down to Europe, normally through the Red Sea it takes 21 days. Now when you go around Africa and down to Europe, it'll take 42 days. The implications are multiple. One is you have containers basically being occupied but the goods are an extra 20-plus days, so the efficiency goes down, the cost goes up, and the insurance goes up. And when you look at it from an India perspective, India exports rice to other parts of Europe. It has an impact of 10% to 15% on the export side. It is impacting the oil, Indian oil which is coming from Russia will be impacted, from a price point perspective, from a logistic point perspective. So, it is disruptive. And we have seen the impact of that not only just on food prices going up, but oil prices going up in the United States and Europe. So, the disruption in the Red Sea will impact the food prices, the oil prices and overall inflation across the world.

US investors bullish on India, Washington-Delhi ties mature says USISPF Chief Aghi

In a shocking cyber crime that took place in India's Uttar Pradesh, a cyber criminal targeted grieving parents with missing children, promising them to&nbsp;

The man behind these revolting crimes has been identified as a 28-year-old tech graduate. As per reports, he conned almost 950 people.

<h2>A long con</h2>

As per an NDTV report, the computer graduate would prey on grieving families, conning them out of small amounts to avoid triggering suspicions.

The case came to light last month, on November 15, when the Indian capital Delhi's Wazirabad police station received a complaint. A father reported that his daughter had gone missing. A report was registered and the missing child's details were uploaded to the missing portal of the Delhi police.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-mumbai-doctors-to-now-face-biometric-verification-for-attendance-at-public-hospitals-671800">India: Mumbai doctors working in public hospitals to mark biometric attendance to cut patients’ wait time</a>

A few days later, the worried family received a call that raised their hopes: a man told them that their daughter had been found but that they need to transfer ₹8,000 (around $96) to help get her back. The family, using a QR code shared with them, transferred the money, awaiting their child's return. However, they never heard back from the man. They filed a complaint which led to the conman being traced. &nbsp;

<h2>The man behind the con &nbsp;</h2>

Identified as Shyamsundar Chauhan from Mau in Uttar Pradesh, the cyber conman is a 28-year-old graduate in Computer Applications.&nbsp;

Preying on distressed families, he would ask for small amounts of money ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹40,000 ($24 to $480). To pick his victims, he would scour police databases on missing people. This includes the ZIPNet (Zonal Integrated Police Network).

Talking to the press, Manoj Kumar Meena, Deputy Commissioner of Police, North Delhi revealed that in the last few days they "received multiple written and verbal complaints from parents in the North Delhi district that their missing child had been found, and they had paid money to police personnel, but they got no response after that, or were not reunited with their child."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/criminal-laws-in-india-death-penalty-for-mob-lynching-and-sedition-law-to-be-scrapped-5-major-points-671805">Criminal laws in India: Death penalty for mob-lynching, sedition law to be scrapped - 5 major points</a>

"During our investigation, we found out about a gang that would retrieve the numbers of parents of missing children from publicly available databases and call them up."

The Deputy Commissioner said that the accused would often pose as a police officer and ask for money to facilitate the child's travel from another city.&nbsp;

"He would say the child has been recovered and ask for a small sum, saying that the child was in other cities, like Dehradun, and the money was needed to get them back. The parents would transfer the amount. One such incident took place under the Wazirabad police station, where ₹8,000 was taken from a family to get their daughter back."

As per the police, the predatory conman was arrested from Mau, Uttar Pradesh. Their investigation revealed that he had cheated 41 people from North Delhi and 904 people from Delhi-NCR.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a shocking cyber crime that took place in India's Uttar Pradesh, a cyber criminal targeted grieving parents with missing children, promising them to The man behind these revolting crimes has been identified as a 28-year-old tech graduate.

In a shocking cyber crime that took place in India's Uttar Pradesh, a cyber criminal targeted grieving parents with missing children, promising them to The man behind these revolting crimes has been identified as a 28-year-old tech graduate. As per reports, he conned almost 950 people. A long con As per an NDTV report, the computer graduate would prey on grieving families, conning them out of small amounts to avoid triggering suspicions. The case came to light last month, on November 15, when the Indian capital Delhi's Wazirabad police station received a complaint. A father reported that his daughter had gone missing. A report was registered and the missing child's details were uploaded to the missing portal of the Delhi police. Also read | India: Mumbai doctors working in public hospitals to mark biometric attendance to cut patients’ wait time A few days later, the worried family received a call that raised their hopes: a man told them that their daughter had been found but that they need to transfer ₹8,000 (around $96) to help get her back. The family, using a QR code shared with them, transferred the money, awaiting their child's return. However, they never heard back from the man. They filed a complaint which led to the conman being traced. The man behind the con Identified as Shyamsundar Chauhan from Mau in Uttar Pradesh, the cyber conman is a 28-year-old graduate in Computer Applications. Preying on distressed families, he would ask for small amounts of money ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹40,000 ($24 to $480). To pick his victims, he would scour police databases on missing people. This includes the ZIPNet (Zonal Integrated Police Network). Talking to the press, Manoj Kumar Meena, Deputy Commissioner of Police, North Delhi revealed that in the last few days they "received multiple written and verbal complaints from parents in the North Delhi district that their missing child had been found, and they had paid money to police personnel, but they got no response after that, or were not reunited with their child." Also read | Criminal laws in India: Death penalty for mob-lynching, sedition law to be scrapped - 5 major points "During our investigation, we found out about a gang that would retrieve the numbers of parents of missing children from publicly available databases and call them up." The Deputy Commissioner said that the accused would often pose as a police officer and ask for money to facilitate the child's travel from another city. "He would say the child has been recovered and ask for a small sum, saying that the child was in other cities, like Dehradun, and the money was needed to get them back. The parents would transfer the amount. One such incident took place under the Wazirabad police station, where ₹8,000 was taken from a family to get their daughter back." As per the police, the predatory conman was arrested from Mau, Uttar Pradesh. Their investigation revealed that he had cheated 41 people from North Delhi and 904 people from Delhi-NCR. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Cyber criminal accesses police database, cons 945 families who reported their kids missing

The Enforcement Directorate has issued a fresh summons to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for questioning on December 21 in the excise policy-linked money laundering case, officials said Monday.

He was first called by the federal agency to appear on November 2, but he did not depose alleging that the notice was "vague, motivated and unsustainable in law".

The summons&nbsp;to Kejriwal, also the national convenor of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), pertain to questioning in the alleged Delhi excise policy case and for recording his statement under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the officials said.

He has to appear at the ED headquarters on December 21, they said. The development comes days after Delhi government officials said Kejriwal will leave for a 10-day Vipassana meditation course at an undisclosed location from December 19.

AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh are among those arrested in this case by the ED and the agency is expected to file a supplementary chargesheet in the case soon.

After the first summons,&nbsp;AAP had alleged that Kejriwal would be arrested as part of the BJP's plan to target top INDIA bloc leaders ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls and the ED notice was an attempt to finish the party that is in power in Delhi and Punjab.

The ED has mentioned Kejriwal's name multiple times in its chargesheets filed in the case and said the accused were in touch with him regarding the preparation of the now-scrapped Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22.

In one instance, the agency claimed in its charge sheet that it had recorded the statement of Butchibabu, an accountant allegedly linked to BRS leader K Kavitha, in which he said that "there was a political understanding between K Kavitha and chief minister (Arvind Kejriwal) and the deputy chief minister (Sisodia)."

"In that process, K Kavitha also met Vijay Nair (AAP communications in-charge arrested in the case) on March 19-20, 2021." In another instance involving arrested accused Dinesh Arora, the ED said he told it that he met Kejriwal once at his residence.

Similarly, the ED chargesheet said, YSRCP MP Magunta Sriniavasulu Reddy also held meetings with Arvind Kejriwal who welcomed his entry into the Delhi liquor business.

It had said that Buchibabu and another accused Arun Pillai have revealed that they and Vijay Nair were working with the "support and sanction" of Arvind Kejriwal and AAP leader and the then Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia for all excise policy-related activities, including formulation as well as implementation.

It had also alleged that Vijay Nair "arranged a video call through facetime (a video calling facility on iPhone) on his phone for another arrested accused Sameer (Mahandru) and Sh Arvind Kejriwal, where Sh Arvind said to Sh Sameer that, Vijay is his boy and that Sh Sameer should trust him and carry on with him."&nbsp;

Kejriwal had then rubbished the contents of the ED complaint saying it has "filed 5,000 chargesheets under the tenure of the current government."&nbsp;

"How many people have been sentenced? All the cases filed by ED are fake and they are used to topple governments or form them. ED does not file cases to eradicate corruption. They do it to buy MLAs, topple governments," Kejriwal had said.

It is alleged that the Delhi government's excise policy for 2021-22 to grant licenses to liquor traders allowed cartelisation and favoured certain dealers who had allegedly paid bribes for it, a charge repeatedly refuted by the AAP.

The policy was subsequently scrapped and the Delhi lieutenant governor recommended a CBI probe, following which the ED registered a case under the PMLA.

The Enforcement Directorate has issued a fresh summons to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for questioning on December 21 in the excise policy-linked money laundering case, officials said Monday.

The Enforcement Directorate has issued a fresh summons to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for questioning on December 21 in the excise policy-linked money laundering case, officials said Monday. He was first called by the federal agency to appear on November 2, but he did not depose alleging that the notice was "vague, motivated and unsustainable in law". The summons to Kejriwal, also the national convenor of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), pertain to questioning in the alleged Delhi excise policy case and for recording his statement under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the officials said. He has to appear at the ED headquarters on December 21, they said. The development comes days after Delhi government officials said Kejriwal will leave for a 10-day Vipassana meditation course at an undisclosed location from December 19. AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh are among those arrested in this case by the ED and the agency is expected to file a supplementary chargesheet in the case soon. After the first summons, AAP had alleged that Kejriwal would be arrested as part of the BJP's plan to target top INDIA bloc leaders ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls and the ED notice was an attempt to finish the party that is in power in Delhi and Punjab. The ED has mentioned Kejriwal's name multiple times in its chargesheets filed in the case and said the accused were in touch with him regarding the preparation of the now-scrapped Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22. In one instance, the agency claimed in its charge sheet that it had recorded the statement of Butchibabu, an accountant allegedly linked to BRS leader K Kavitha, in which he said that "there was a political understanding between K Kavitha and chief minister (Arvind Kejriwal) and the deputy chief minister (Sisodia)." "In that process, K Kavitha also met Vijay Nair (AAP communications in-charge arrested in the case) on March 19-20, 2021." In another instance involving arrested accused Dinesh Arora, the ED said he told it that he met Kejriwal once at his residence. Similarly, the ED chargesheet said, YSRCP MP Magunta Sriniavasulu Reddy also held meetings with Arvind Kejriwal who welcomed his entry into the Delhi liquor business. It had said that Buchibabu and another accused Arun Pillai have revealed that they and Vijay Nair were working with the "support and sanction" of Arvind Kejriwal and AAP leader and the then Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia for all excise policy-related activities, including formulation as well as implementation. It had also alleged that Vijay Nair "arranged a video call through facetime (a video calling facility on iPhone) on his phone for another arrested accused Sameer (Mahandru) and Sh Arvind Kejriwal, where Sh Arvind said to Sh Sameer that, Vijay is his boy and that Sh Sameer should trust him and carry on with him." Kejriwal had then rubbished the contents of the ED complaint saying it has "filed 5,000 chargesheets under the tenure of the current government." "How many people have been sentenced? All the cases filed by ED are fake and they are used to topple governments or form them. ED does not file cases to eradicate corruption. They do it to buy MLAs, topple governments," Kejriwal had said. It is alleged that the Delhi government's excise policy for 2021-22 to grant licenses to liquor traders allowed cartelisation and favoured certain dealers who had allegedly paid bribes for it, a charge repeatedly refuted by the AAP. The policy was subsequently scrapped and the Delhi lieutenant governor recommended a CBI probe, following which the ED registered a case under the PMLA.

Fresh ED summons to Arvind Kejriwal for questioning in Delhi excise policy case

Delhi witnessed the coldest morning yet on Sunday as the minimum temperature plunged to 8.3 degrees Celsius, a degree below normal. The maximum temperature dipped to 23.

Delhi witnessed the coldest morning yet on Sunday as the minimum temperature plunged to 8.3 degrees Celsius, a degree below normal. The maximum temperature dipped to 23.4 degrees Celsius, one degree below normal. The night temperature is the lowest since November 28, when the minimum dropped because of rainfall. On Saturday, the minimum temperature recorded was 8.5 degrees Celsius, and the maximum settled at 25.3 degrees. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the minimum temperature in the national capital might plunge further in the coming week, and the mornings are going to be foggy. Wind speeds of up to 20 kilometres per hour kept the temperature low and skies clear on Sunday. However, the weather department has predicted the wind speed to dip in the coming week. ALSO READ | India rejects 'secret memo' report over 'crackdown' against Khalistani terrorists Furthermore, the air quality in Delhi improved marginally on Sunday but remained within the very poor category. The AQI read 314 at 4 pm IST. According to the weather forecast by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the air quality in Delhi is likely to remain in the very poor category till Thursday. The IITM weather forecast said, "The outlook for the subsequent six days: The air quality is likely to remain in the Very Poor to Poor category." It also stated, "The predominant surface wind is likely to be coming from the north-west directions in Delhi with wind speed 4-8 kmph, mainly clear sky and shallow fog in the morning on Monday." IMD reported maximum and minimum temperatures on Monday to settle at 23 and 6.5 degrees Celsius, respectively. While the maximum temperature will range between 22 to 23 degrees Celsius in the coming week, the minimum temperature might fall to 6 degrees Celsius. ALSO READ | Explained - Currency machines 'give in' as I-T raids in India recover $42mn from Congress' Dhiraj Sahu The IITM weather bulletin for Delhi stated the ventilation index for Monday would be 1,800 sq metres per second. For Tuesday and Wednesday, it would be 1,500 and 3,300 sq metres per second, respectively. As per IITM's decision support system, 12 per cent of Delhi's total PM2.5 emission came from transport, about 5 per cent was due to industries and 41 per cent from other sources. The PM2.5 level was 125.5 micrograms per cubic metre on Sunday at 6 pm against 135.5 micrograms per cubic metre on Saturday, the Central Pollution Control Board said. (With inputs from agencies)

India capital Delhi records coldest morning of season; temperature to drop further this week, says IMD

A Lufthansa flight from Munich to Bangkok landed on Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi on Wednesday after a married couple started fighting mid-air. The flight landed at the Delhi airport after the pilots contacted the Air Traffic Control (ATC) and informed them about a "situation and possible unruly passenger.

A Lufthansa flight from Munich to Bangkok landed on Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi on Wednesday after a married couple started fighting mid-air. The flight landed at the Delhi airport after the pilots contacted the Air Traffic Control (ATC) and informed them about a "situation and possible unruly passenger." According to the airline, a German passenger was offloaded due to an argument with his Thai wife that escalated into a loud dispute. However, the German man apologised later for his behaviour. It's been confirmed by a DGCA official that Lufthansa is taking prompt action by coordinating with the German Embassy regarding the passenger. Lufthansa has also released a statement about the incident, saying, "On Wednesday, November 27, flight LH772 from Munich to Bangkok was diverted to Delhi due to an unruly passenger on board. The person in question was handed over to authorities. The flight to Bangkok is expected to continue subsequently with minor delays. Safety and security on board for our passengers and crew is our top priority." ALSO READ | 'Hell mode?': Chinese hospitals have 'homework zones' for kids battling pneumonia, netizens react The statement also mentioned that the flight was ready to fly for Bangkok after the tyres cooled off. "Aircraft is ready for push back any time soon after cooling off of tyres for Bangkok," the official added. However, authorities are still deciding whether to hand over the man to Delhi Police or consider his apology and send him back to Germany on another flight. As per the reports, the cabin crew onboard the Lufthansa flight from Munich to Bangkok (LH772) reported disruptive conduct due to a quarrel between a husband and wife on board. Initially, the aircraft was requested to land in Pakistan. However, the request was denied for undisclosed reasons. Subsequently, the flight landed at the Delhi airport and the German man was handed over to airport security. While the cause of the fight is unknown, aviation security at the Delhi airport confirmed that the flight had to be diverted due to an argument between the husband and wife. According to a report by the Economic Times, the wife complained about her husband's behaviour to the pilot because she felt "threatened" by it. However, it is not the first time a passenger has caused a drama mid-air. In October 2023, a male passenger on a flight from Egypt to Delhi quarelled with his co-passengers and damaged seats in the aircraft. He was later handed to the Delhi Police for further investigation. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangkok-bound flight lands in Delhi after husband and wife's mid-air fight

In pics | Layer of haze shrouds Indian cities after Diwali celebrations, air quality dips

Delhi’s Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Tuesday (Nov 7) said that the order of the Supreme Court will be first studied by the government and then the national capital’s odd-even rule will be finalised.

The minister’s reaction came after the government was rapped by the apex court on Tuesday (Nov 7) for the increasing pollution in the National Capital Region and asked if the odd-even scheme, which is aimed at decreasing the number of cars plying on the roads of the capital city, has ever achieved success.

"It's all optics," said the top court, one day after an announcement was made by the Delhi government regarding the implementation of the odd-even scheme in Delhi-NCR from November 13 to November 20.

The transport department gathered on Tuesday to decide the details of the odd-even rule. "But meanwhile we came across some observations made by the Supreme Court. So now instead of announcing the odd-even rules, we will go through the order/observations of the Supreme Court. After studying them, we will incorporate them into the scheme," Gopal Rai stated.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-poor-aqi-what-is-grap-and-its-stages-indian-capitals-pollution-control-plan-655984">Delhi poor AQI: What is GRAP and its stages? Indian capital's pollution control plan</a>

"Odd-even has been implemented in Delhi, but has it ever succeeded? It's all optics," said Justice SK Kaul, as a bench comprising of Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia and Justice SK Kaul heard the case of Delhi pollution.

<h2>SC slams neighbouring states, including Punjab, over Delhi pollution crisis</h2>

The Supreme Court said that Delhi’s air pollution cannot be turned into a political battle, as it held the choking air quality responsible for the "murder of people's health".&nbsp;

The burning of crop residue in neighbouring states like Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab was held as a key factor behind the deteriorating air pollution in the national capital every winter by the court.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;India's supreme court on Delhi pollution: Odd-even scheme is 'mere optics'

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The state governments, including Punjab, were asked by the court to take measures to stop the burning of the stubble. "We want it stopped. We don't know how you do it, it's your job. But it must be stopped. Something has to be done immediately," the court stated.&nbsp;

The Delhi government was also not spared by the court either. "Delhi government also must be responsible. There are many buses running that pollute and run at half capacity. You have to attend to the problem," it stated.

For the last five days, Delhi has been facing deteriorating air quality with physical classes in schools getting closed till November 10. The government has ordered to stop non-essential construction work and an embargo has been imposed on a few vehicles as the air quality slipped into the severe category.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi’s Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Tuesday (Nov 7) said that the order of the Supreme Court will be first studied by the government and then the national capital’s odd-even rule will be finalised.

Delhi’s Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Tuesday (Nov 7) said that the order of the Supreme Court will be first studied by the government and then the national capital’s odd-even rule will be finalised. The minister’s reaction came after the government was rapped by the apex court on Tuesday (Nov 7) for the increasing pollution in the National Capital Region and asked if the odd-even scheme, which is aimed at decreasing the number of cars plying on the roads of the capital city, has ever achieved success. "It's all optics," said the top court, one day after an announcement was made by the Delhi government regarding the implementation of the odd-even scheme in Delhi-NCR from November 13 to November 20. The transport department gathered on Tuesday to decide the details of the odd-even rule. "But meanwhile we came across some observations made by the Supreme Court. So now instead of announcing the odd-even rules, we will go through the order/observations of the Supreme Court. After studying them, we will incorporate them into the scheme," Gopal Rai stated. ALSO READ | Delhi poor AQI: What is GRAP and its stages? Indian capital's pollution control plan "Odd-even has been implemented in Delhi, but has it ever succeeded? It's all optics," said Justice SK Kaul, as a bench comprising of Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia and Justice SK Kaul heard the case of Delhi pollution. SC slams neighbouring states, including Punjab, over Delhi pollution crisis The Supreme Court said that Delhi’s air pollution cannot be turned into a political battle, as it held the choking air quality responsible for the "murder of people's health". The burning of crop residue in neighbouring states like Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab was held as a key factor behind the deteriorating air pollution in the national capital every winter by the court. Watch | India's supreme court on Delhi pollution: Odd-even scheme is 'mere optics' The state governments, including Punjab, were asked by the court to take measures to stop the burning of the stubble. "We want it stopped. We don't know how you do it, it's your job. But it must be stopped. Something has to be done immediately," the court stated. The Delhi government was also not spared by the court either. "Delhi government also must be responsible. There are many buses running that pollute and run at half capacity. You have to attend to the problem," it stated. For the last five days, Delhi has been facing deteriorating air quality with physical classes in schools getting closed till November 10. The government has ordered to stop non-essential construction work and an embargo has been imposed on a few vehicles as the air quality slipped into the severe category. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi govt to consider SC’s remarks over odd-even rule, after latter calls it ‘mere optics’

The Supreme Court on Tuesday (Nov 7) reiterated that its earlier order banning the use of barium and prohibited chemicals in firecrackers are applicable across the country, and not just to Delhi and its adjoining areas.

The order comes days before the Diwali celebrations on November 12.

The clarification came while hearing a plea seeking direction to the Rajasthan government to comply with the top court’s order on the ban on barium crackers and minimising air and noise pollution.

“At this juncture, no specific order will be necessary in as much as this Court in the course of hearing the petitions has passed several orders, where steps have been indicated to minimise and avoid air as well as noise pollution. Hence the said orders will bind every state in the country, including the state of Rajasthan,” a bench of Justice A S Bopanna and Justice M M Sundresh said in its order, reports LiveLaw.

“Therefore, we make it clear that the state of Rajasthan would also take note of this and take all steps to minimise air and noise pollution, not only during the festival season but even thereafter" the bench stated.

<h2>'Celebrate Diwali, but with moderation'</h2>

Justice Sundresh said that celebrations must take place, but not at the cost of the environment.

“Celebrations can take place, but with some moderation. One can bring happiness to others with celebrations, but not at the cost of the environment,” Justice Sundresh said, according to the Hindu newspaper.

Justice Bopanna noted that adults, not children,&nbsp;tend to go overboard while bursting crackers galore, with no thought of the pollution and discomfort caused by them.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-poor-aqi-what-is-grap-and-its-stages-indian-capitals-pollution-control-plan-655984">What is GRAP and its stages? Delhi's pollution control plan</a>

“Due to awareness spread in school, children do not burst crackers much. It is the adults who do it,” Justice Bopanna said, adding that people easily dodge time restrictions imposed for bursting crackers.

<h2>Order binding&nbsp;</h2>

“If we give a 10.30 pm&nbsp;limit, they will burst their entire stock of crackers by 10 pm. All they think of is finishing their stock of crackers,” he remarked.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/is-stubbly-burning-the-sole-reason-for-delhis-poor-aqi-a-new-study-reveals-otherwise-655878">Is stubble burning the sole reason for Delhi’s poor air quality? A new study reveals otherwise</a>

The court reminded the responsibilities of the state governments in minimising air and noise pollution not only during festive seasons but also&nbsp;otherwise as well.

The Supreme Court bench asserted that the order&nbsp;on firecrackers is binding on&nbsp;all states, including Rajasthan, the bench reiterated.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Supreme Court on Tuesday (Nov 7) reiterated that its earlier order banning the use of barium and prohibited chemicals in firecrackers are applicable across the country, and not just to Delhi and its adjoining areas.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday (Nov 7) reiterated that its earlier order banning the use of barium and prohibited chemicals in firecrackers are applicable across the country, and not just to Delhi and its adjoining areas. The order comes days before the Diwali celebrations on November 12. The clarification came while hearing a plea seeking direction to the Rajasthan government to comply with the top court’s order on the ban on barium crackers and minimising air and noise pollution. “At this juncture, no specific order will be necessary in as much as this Court in the course of hearing the petitions has passed several orders, where steps have been indicated to minimise and avoid air as well as noise pollution. Hence the said orders will bind every state in the country, including the state of Rajasthan,” a bench of Justice A S Bopanna and Justice M M Sundresh said in its order, reports LiveLaw. “Therefore, we make it clear that the state of Rajasthan would also take note of this and take all steps to minimise air and noise pollution, not only during the festival season but even thereafter" the bench stated. 'Celebrate Diwali, but with moderation' Justice Sundresh said that celebrations must take place, but not at the cost of the environment. “Celebrations can take place, but with some moderation. One can bring happiness to others with celebrations, but not at the cost of the environment,” Justice Sundresh said, according to the Hindu newspaper. Justice Bopanna noted that adults, not children, tend to go overboard while bursting crackers galore, with no thought of the pollution and discomfort caused by them. Also read | What is GRAP and its stages? Delhi's pollution control plan “Due to awareness spread in school, children do not burst crackers much. It is the adults who do it,” Justice Bopanna said, adding that people easily dodge time restrictions imposed for bursting crackers. Order binding “If we give a 10.30 pm limit, they will burst their entire stock of crackers by 10 pm. All they think of is finishing their stock of crackers,” he remarked. Also read | Is stubble burning the sole reason for Delhi’s poor air quality? A new study reveals otherwise The court reminded the responsibilities of the state governments in minimising air and noise pollution not only during festive seasons but also otherwise as well. The Supreme Court bench asserted that the order on firecrackers is binding on all states, including Rajasthan, the bench reiterated. (With inputs from agencies)

Directions to regulate firecrackers meant for entire India, not just Delhi: Supreme Court

The passengers boarding an Air India flight from India's Indira Gandhi International Airport in the national capital Delhi and the northern state of Punjab will have to undergo additional checks amid heightened security threats, news agency PTI reported citing sources.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) also decided to halt the sale of visitor entry passes at the Delhi airport till Nov 30.

Reportedly, the sources also said that the entry of visitors to the terminal building of Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) will also be banned till Nov 30.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) also issued a circular in this regard on Monday (Nov 6), as per PTI reports.

In addition to the primary security checks, there will be a Secondary Ladder Point Check in place for the passengers travelling on Air India flights at the IGIA and airports in Punjab, said the sources.

According to the reports, as far as the ban on temporary airport entry passes at the Delhi airport is concerned, a relaxation would be put in place for operational purposes for government functionaries.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dont-fly-air-india-on-nov-19-sikhs-for-justice-chief-pannun-gives-threat-in-alarming-video-message-655265">India to raise Khalistani threats issue with Canada, seek heightened security for Air India flights</a>

<h2>Pannun's chilling threat to Air India</h2>

This move by the authorities came into the picture after designated terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the founder of the banned Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), issued a threat to the Indian government and Air India earlier this week urging Sikhs to abstain from flying on Air India planes on and after November 19.

"We are asking the Sikh people not to fly via Air India. From November 19, there will be a global blockade. Air India won't be allowed to operate. Sikh people, don't travel by Air India after November 19. Your life can be in danger," Pannun said in the video that is circulating on social media.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-to-reintroduce-odd-even-scheme-to-combat-severe-levels-of-pollution-655752">Delhi to reintroduce odd-even scheme to combat severe levels of pollution</a>

He also claimed that Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport would remain shut on Nov 19 and that its name would be changed.

He then went on to launch a chilling threat to India in the video stating that this would be the day when the final match of the "World Terror Cup" will be played.

"It is the same day in November on which the final match of the World Terror Cup will be played," he said.

"The name of this airport will be Shahid Beant Singh, Shahid Satwant Singh Khalistan airport when Punjab will be liberated," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

The passengers boarding an Air India flight from India's Indira Gandhi International Airport in the national capital Delhi and the northern state of Punjab will have to undergo additional checks amid heightened security threats, news agency PTI reported citing sources.

The passengers boarding an Air India flight from India's Indira Gandhi International Airport in the national capital Delhi and the northern state of Punjab will have to undergo additional checks amid heightened security threats, news agency PTI reported citing sources. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) also decided to halt the sale of visitor entry passes at the Delhi airport till Nov 30. Reportedly, the sources also said that the entry of visitors to the terminal building of Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) will also be banned till Nov 30. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) also issued a circular in this regard on Monday (Nov 6), as per PTI reports. In addition to the primary security checks, there will be a Secondary Ladder Point Check in place for the passengers travelling on Air India flights at the IGIA and airports in Punjab, said the sources. According to the reports, as far as the ban on temporary airport entry passes at the Delhi airport is concerned, a relaxation would be put in place for operational purposes for government functionaries. Also read: India to raise Khalistani threats issue with Canada, seek heightened security for Air India flights Pannun's chilling threat to Air India This move by the authorities came into the picture after designated terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the founder of the banned Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), issued a threat to the Indian government and Air India earlier this week urging Sikhs to abstain from flying on Air India planes on and after November 19. "We are asking the Sikh people not to fly via Air India. From November 19, there will be a global blockade. Air India won't be allowed to operate. Sikh people, don't travel by Air India after November 19. Your life can be in danger," Pannun said in the video that is circulating on social media. Also read: Delhi to reintroduce odd-even scheme to combat severe levels of pollution He also claimed that Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport would remain shut on Nov 19 and that its name would be changed. He then went on to launch a chilling threat to India in the video stating that this would be the day when the final match of the "World Terror Cup" will be played. "It is the same day in November on which the final match of the World Terror Cup will be played," he said. "The name of this airport will be Shahid Beant Singh, Shahid Satwant Singh Khalistan airport when Punjab will be liberated," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Air India passengers to undergo additional checks at Delhi airport after Pannun threatens to blow up flight

In a bid to combat severe pollution levels in the national capital, the Delhi government on Monday (Nov 6) announced plans to reintroduce the odd-even car rationing scheme from Nov 13 to 20.

Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai made the announcement during a press briefing after a high-level meeting with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

Rai said that the odd-even scheme would come into effect a day after Diwali and would go on until a week. The decision on whether to extend the scheme or not would be taken after Nov 20.

"The odd-even scheme will come into effect in Delhi after Diwali, running from November 13 to November 20. A decision to extend the scheme will be made after November 20," he said.

He further said that as per the weather forecast, it is expected that the wind speed should increase on Nov 7, 8 further reducing the level of pollution.

"As per the forecast, the wind speed will be 12km/hour tomorrow, 7th November and if the speed reaches 10 to 12 km/hour, then there is a possibility that the level of pollution accumulated here might disperse. Similarly, the wind speed will be 8-10 km/hour on 8th November. It is expected that the speed of wind will increase on November 7 and 8 November which will reduce the level of pollution," he said.

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&nbsp;

He also said that a decision to impose work-from-home for 50 per cent of staff in government and private offices will be taken after Diwali.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-air-pollution-capitals-aqi-stands-above-450-in-critical-category-cm-calls-for-high-level-meeting-655579">Delhi's air 'critical', with many NCR areas recording AQI at 999</a>

<h2>What is odd-even scheme?</h2>

The odd-even scheme, which was introduced by the Delhi government in 2016 to combat vehicular pollution, was enforced in 2017 as well as 2019.

It is a traffic rationing measure which permits cars to operate on alternate days based on their odd or even number plates.&nbsp;

Vehicles with registration numbers ending with an odd digit are permitted on the roads on odd dates and the ones ending with an even digit are allowed on even dates.

The enforcement next week would mark the fourth time that the Delhi government will implement this scheme to tackle pollution caused by vehicles.

According to the data released by the System of Air Quality Forecasting and Research (SAFAR-India), the air quality index was recorded at 488 in India's capital which shot up from 410 a day ago.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

In a bid to combat severe pollution levels in the national capital, the Delhi government on Monday (Nov 6) announced plans to reintroduce the odd-even car rationing scheme from Nov 13 to 20.

In a bid to combat severe pollution levels in the national capital, the Delhi government on Monday (Nov 6) announced plans to reintroduce the odd-even car rationing scheme from Nov 13 to 20. Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai made the announcement during a press briefing after a high-level meeting with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Rai said that the odd-even scheme would come into effect a day after Diwali and would go on until a week. The decision on whether to extend the scheme or not would be taken after Nov 20. "The odd-even scheme will come into effect in Delhi after Diwali, running from November 13 to November 20. A decision to extend the scheme will be made after November 20," he said. He further said that as per the weather forecast, it is expected that the wind speed should increase on Nov 7, 8 further reducing the level of pollution. "As per the forecast, the wind speed will be 12km/hour tomorrow, 7th November and if the speed reaches 10 to 12 km/hour, then there is a possibility that the level of pollution accumulated here might disperse. Similarly, the wind speed will be 8-10 km/hour on 8th November. It is expected that the speed of wind will increase on November 7 and 8 November which will reduce the level of pollution," he said. #WATCH | On the Odd-Even vehicle scheme implemented by Delhi Govt, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai says "A meeting has been called tomorrow to have further discussions on how to implement the Odd-Even scheme in Delhi...There are over 7,000 buses running in Delhi, out of… pic.twitter.com/oyX91rlJhi — ANI (@ANI) November 6, 2023 × He also said that a decision to impose work-from-home for 50 per cent of staff in government and private offices will be taken after Diwali. Also read: Delhi's air 'critical', with many NCR areas recording AQI at 999 What is odd-even scheme? The odd-even scheme, which was introduced by the Delhi government in 2016 to combat vehicular pollution, was enforced in 2017 as well as 2019. It is a traffic rationing measure which permits cars to operate on alternate days based on their odd or even number plates. Vehicles with registration numbers ending with an odd digit are permitted on the roads on odd dates and the ones ending with an even digit are allowed on even dates. The enforcement next week would mark the fourth time that the Delhi government will implement this scheme to tackle pollution caused by vehicles. According to the data released by the System of Air Quality Forecasting and Research (SAFAR-India), the air quality index was recorded at 488 in India's capital which shot up from 410 a day ago. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi to reintroduce odd-even scheme to combat severe levels of pollution

More than 30&nbsp;people were killed and dozens were injured after a&nbsp;powerful earthquake of 6.4 magnitude struck&nbsp;Nepal on Friday night (Nov 3), reported the Associated Press.&nbsp;The tremors of the earthquake&nbsp;were felt in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) and some other parts of north India, the National Centre for Seismology said.

<h2>At least 37&nbsp;killed, dozens injured in Nepal</h2>

At least 37&nbsp;people were killed and dozens injured after the earthquake hit Nepal, reported AP.&nbsp;The death toll is expected to rise, officials told the news agency, noting that communications were cut off with many villages.

At least 20 people have been killed Namaraj Bhattarai, a police official in the&nbsp;Rukum district told AP&nbsp;over the telephone.&nbsp;

Local official Harish Chandra Sharma told Reuters that they have not been&nbsp;able to establish any contact at the epicentre in Jajarkot and that&nbsp;there are reports of 17 deaths just in the district.

Jajarkot district official Suresh Sunar told Reuters by phone, that around 20 people were also rushed to the&nbsp;hospital with injuries.&nbsp;

"I am out in the open myself. We are collecting details but due to cold and night it is difficult to get information from remote areas," he told Reuters.

<h2>Earthquake shook buildings in New Delhi</h2>

Nepal's National Seismological Centre said the quake occurred at 11:47 pm (local time) in Jajarkot district of Karnali province.

As per the National Centre for Seismology, the epicentre of the quake was in Nepal at a depth of 10 km, about 227 km north of Ayodhya and 331 km west-northwest of Kathmandu.

"Earthquake of Magnitude:6.4, Occurred on 03-11-2023, 23:32:54 IST, Lat: 28.84 &amp; Long: 82.19, Depth: 10 Km," NCS said in its post on X.

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Earthquake of Magnitude:6.4, Occurred on 03-11-2023, 23:32:54 IST, Lat: 28.84 &amp; Long: 82.19, Depth: 10 Km ,Location: Nepal, for more information Download the BhooKamp App <a href="https://t.co/SSou5Hs0eO">https://t.co/SSou5Hs0eO</a><a href="https://twitter.com/ndmaindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ndmaindia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Indiametdept?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Indiametdept</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Dr_Mishra1966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dr_Mishra1966</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravi_MoES?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ravi_MoES</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KirenRijiju?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KirenRijiju</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/XBXjcT29WX">pic.twitter.com/XBXjcT29WX</a>
— National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCS_Earthquake/status/1720504271630954695?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the United States Geological Survey, said that the quake was of magnitude 5.6. "Notable quake, preliminary info: M 5.6 - 42 km S of Jumla, Nepal," it wrote on X.&nbsp;

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Notable quake, preliminary info: M 5.6 - 42 km S of Jumla, Nepal <a href="https://t.co/BPIEGFOQir">https://t.co/BPIEGFOQir</a>
— USGS Earthquakes (@USGS_Quakes) <a href="https://twitter.com/USGS_Quakes/status/1720514573932098045?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The earthquake shook buildings as far as New Delhi, which is around 600 kilometres away. People immediately rushed out of their houses as the strong tremors reverberated through parts of north&nbsp;Indian states and lasted for over a minute.&nbsp;

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This is the third time in a month that strong quakes have struck Nepal.

(With inputs from agencies)

More than 30 people were killed and dozens were injured after a powerful earthquake of 6.4 magnitude struck Nepal on Friday night (Nov 3), reported the Associated Press.

More than 30 people were killed and dozens were injured after a powerful earthquake of 6.4 magnitude struck Nepal on Friday night (Nov 3), reported the Associated Press. The tremors of the earthquake were felt in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) and some other parts of north India, the National Centre for Seismology said. At least 37 killed, dozens injured in Nepal At least 37 people were killed and dozens injured after the earthquake hit Nepal, reported AP. The death toll is expected to rise, officials told the news agency, noting that communications were cut off with many villages. At least 20 people have been killed Namaraj Bhattarai, a police official in the Rukum district told AP over the telephone. Local official Harish Chandra Sharma told Reuters that they have not been able to establish any contact at the epicentre in Jajarkot and that there are reports of 17 deaths just in the district. Jajarkot district official Suresh Sunar told Reuters by phone, that around 20 people were also rushed to the hospital with injuries. "I am out in the open myself. We are collecting details but due to cold and night it is difficult to get information from remote areas," he told Reuters. Earthquake shook buildings in New Delhi Nepal's National Seismological Centre said the quake occurred at 11:47 pm (local time) in Jajarkot district of Karnali province. As per the National Centre for Seismology, the epicentre of the quake was in Nepal at a depth of 10 km, about 227 km north of Ayodhya and 331 km west-northwest of Kathmandu. "Earthquake of Magnitude:6.4, Occurred on 03-11-2023, 23:32:54 IST, Lat: 28.84 & Long: 82.19, Depth: 10 Km," NCS said in its post on X. Earthquake of Magnitude:6.4, Occurred on 03-11-2023, 23:32:54 IST, Lat: 28.84 & Long: 82.19, Depth: 10 Km ,Location: Nepal, for more information Download the BhooKamp App https://t.co/SSou5Hs0eO@ndmaindia @Indiametdept @Dr_Mishra1966 @Ravi_MoES @KirenRijiju @PMOIndia pic.twitter.com/XBXjcT29WX — National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) November 3, 2023 × Meanwhile, the United States Geological Survey, said that the quake was of magnitude 5.6. "Notable quake, preliminary info: M 5.6 - 42 km S of Jumla, Nepal," it wrote on X. Notable quake, preliminary info: M 5.6 - 42 km S of Jumla, Nepal https://t.co/BPIEGFOQir — USGS Earthquakes (@USGS_Quakes) November 3, 2023 × The earthquake shook buildings as far as New Delhi, which is around 600 kilometres away. People immediately rushed out of their houses as the strong tremors reverberated through parts of north Indian states and lasted for over a minute. #WATCH | Bihar: People come out of their homes as tremors felt in Patna pic.twitter.com/PoINrMXIA1 — ANI (@ANI) November 3, 2023 × This is the third time in a month that strong quakes have struck Nepal. (With inputs from agencies)

More than 30 people killed after 6.4 magnitude earthquake hits Nepal; tremors felt in Delhi

In a shocking case of apathy&nbsp;in India’s capital Delhi, a budding 30-year-old filmmaker bled to death on a road as onlookers, instead of taking him to a hospital, were busy recording videos and clicking selfies, with some even&nbsp;stealing his belongings.

The accident happened at 9.45 pm (local time) at a busy stretch connecting IIT crossing and Nehru Place on Tuesday (Oct 31).

For almost half-an-hour, Piyush Pal—who got severe head injuries after his bike collided with another and crashed into a tree—lay bleeding on the busy road of South Delhi even as his life was slowly ebbing away.

Police claimed that they were informed of the accident only at 10.11 pm, Indian Express newspaper reported.

Nobody moved for several minutes until a few concerned persons stepped in to help.

<h2>No one stepped in to help&nbsp;</h2>

Pankaj Mistry, a passerby who was on his bike with his brother, spotted a huge gathering on the road and stopped to check.

“I saw a man on the road, bleeding heavily from his head, with his bike a few metres away. No one bothered to help him, call an ambulance or police,” Mistry told The Indian Express.

Mistry said that he, along with his brother and another person, quickly hailed an auto and took Pal to a nearby clinic.

However, the clinic lacked adequate facilities to treat the injured man, following which they all went to PSRI Hospital, which took them nearly an hour to reach.

At the same time, a police team arrived at the accident spot at 10.30 pm, but found that Pal and another injured were taken to separate hospitals.

<h2>‘If only bystanders had responded quickly</h2>

The police also found that Pal’s mobile phone, wallet and bag were stolen.

“It was only when we reached the hospital that we found Pal’s belongings were not on him,” Mistry added

DCP (South) Chandan Chowdhary said that a case under IPC sections pertaining to rash driving and causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others have been filed.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hazardous-air-engulfs-indias-capital-delhi-officials-ban-construction-entry-of-diesel-vehicles-654423">‘Hazardous’ air engulfs India’s capital Delhi, officials ban construction, entry of diesel vehicles</a>

‘If only bystanders had responded quickly…’

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/situation-calm-but-tense-in-imphal-day-after-attack-by-mob-on-manipur-rifles-camp-654221">Situation calm but tense in Imphal day after attack by mob on Manipur Rifles camp</a>

The top police officer said that they got information of Pal’s death on October 31. The postmortem was carried out on Wednesday and the body handed over to the family.

Piyush Pal is survived by his father and mother, who run a general goods store in Kalkaji, and an elder sister who works in a bank.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a shocking case of apathy in India’s capital Delhi, a budding 30-year-old filmmaker bled to death on a road as onlookers, instead of taking him to a hospital, were busy recording videos and clicking selfies, with some even stealing his belongings.

In a shocking case of apathy in India’s capital Delhi, a budding 30-year-old filmmaker bled to death on a road as onlookers, instead of taking him to a hospital, were busy recording videos and clicking selfies, with some even stealing his belongings. The accident happened at 9.45 pm (local time) at a busy stretch connecting IIT crossing and Nehru Place on Tuesday (Oct 31). For almost half-an-hour, Piyush Pal—who got severe head injuries after his bike collided with another and crashed into a tree—lay bleeding on the busy road of South Delhi even as his life was slowly ebbing away. Police claimed that they were informed of the accident only at 10.11 pm, Indian Express newspaper reported. Nobody moved for several minutes until a few concerned persons stepped in to help. No one stepped in to help Pankaj Mistry, a passerby who was on his bike with his brother, spotted a huge gathering on the road and stopped to check. “I saw a man on the road, bleeding heavily from his head, with his bike a few metres away. No one bothered to help him, call an ambulance or police,” Mistry told The Indian Express. Mistry said that he, along with his brother and another person, quickly hailed an auto and took Pal to a nearby clinic. However, the clinic lacked adequate facilities to treat the injured man, following which they all went to PSRI Hospital, which took them nearly an hour to reach. At the same time, a police team arrived at the accident spot at 10.30 pm, but found that Pal and another injured were taken to separate hospitals. ‘If only bystanders had responded quickly The police also found that Pal’s mobile phone, wallet and bag were stolen. “It was only when we reached the hospital that we found Pal’s belongings were not on him,” Mistry added DCP (South) Chandan Chowdhary said that a case under IPC sections pertaining to rash driving and causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others have been filed. Also read | ‘Hazardous’ air engulfs India’s capital Delhi, officials ban construction, entry of diesel vehicles ‘If only bystanders had responded quickly…’ Also read | Situation calm but tense in Imphal day after attack by mob on Manipur Rifles camp The top police officer said that they got information of Pal’s death on October 31. The postmortem was carried out on Wednesday and the body handed over to the family. Piyush Pal is survived by his father and mother, who run a general goods store in Kalkaji, and an elder sister who works in a bank. (With inputs from agencies)

India: 30-year-old man lay bleeding on Delhi road for minutes, bystanders record videos, rob him

The air quality in India's national capital New Delhi, along with Gurugram and Noida fell from the category of 'poor' to 'very poor' in which the Air Quality Index (AQI) ranged from 221 to 341, creating an alarming situation for the residents in the National Capital Region (NCR). 
 
Even after the Delhi government's 15-point winter action plan which was aimed at controlling the increasing pollution, the fight against deteriorating air quality continued. 
 
Even though initiatives like 'Red Light on, Gaadi off' have been implemented as biomass burning emissions keep contributing to increasing PM2.5 levels, the haze continues to linger as 'Very Poor' air quality has been forecasted for the capital city from October 29 to 31, 2023.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-to-issue-visas-to-canadians-but-not-under-four-categories-651509">India to issue visas to Canadians but not under these four categories</a>

On Sunday (Oct 29), the national capital's overall air quality was recorded in the 'Very Poor' category, according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR)-India. In Delhi, the AQI was recorded at 309 on Sunday morning (Oct 29). 
 
According to the latest data collected by SAFAR-India, the air quality near Delhi University was in the 'Very Poor' category with AQI recorded at 341 in the early morning hours while in the area around IIT, it was recorded at 300.

<h2>Delhi's 15-point winter action plan</h2>

Meanwhile, in the area around Lodhi Road, the AQI was recorded at 262 and the air was categorised in the 'Poor' category. In its bulletin, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on the air quality of the national capital forecasted that predominant surface wind is likely to blow from different directions in the city and the wind speed is estimated to be around 04-08 kmph, which will lead to mist and clear sky in the morning on October 29. 
 
Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Friday (Oct 27) had stated that they have implemented a 15-point winter action plan for curbing the pollution.

Watch |&nbsp;Indian troops in Maldives asked to leave by President-elect&nbsp;

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"Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had earlier announced a 15-point winter action plan to curb the pollution caused by vehicles, biomass burning, dust, etc. Now this winter action plan is being implemented on the ground one by one to reduce the pollution in the national capital," Rai said while speaking to the news agency ANI. 
 
"Now the data says that in AQI the level of Particulate matter (PM) 10 is decreasing and that of PM2.5 is increasing. This means that pollution caused by vehicles and biomass burning is increasing. For this, the 'Red Light on, Gaadi off' campaign has been started," he added. 
 
According to the daily bulletin of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI of Delhi was 304 as of 4 pm local time on October 28. From October 29 to 31, the air quality will be in the 'Very Poor' category, as per the Air Quality and Weather Bulletin for Delhi.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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The air quality in India's national capital New Delhi, along with Gurugram and Noida fell from the category of 'poor' to 'very poor' in which the Air Quality Index (AQI) ranged from 221 to 341, creating an alarming situation for the residents in the National Capital Region (NCR).

The air quality in India's national capital New Delhi, along with Gurugram and Noida fell from the category of 'poor' to 'very poor' in which the Air Quality Index (AQI) ranged from 221 to 341, creating an alarming situation for the residents in the National Capital Region (NCR). Even after the Delhi government's 15-point winter action plan which was aimed at controlling the increasing pollution, the fight against deteriorating air quality continued. Even though initiatives like 'Red Light on, Gaadi off' have been implemented as biomass burning emissions keep contributing to increasing PM2.5 levels, the haze continues to linger as 'Very Poor' air quality has been forecasted for the capital city from October 29 to 31, 2023. ALSO READ | India to issue visas to Canadians but not under these four categories On Sunday (Oct 29), the national capital's overall air quality was recorded in the 'Very Poor' category, according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR)-India. In Delhi, the AQI was recorded at 309 on Sunday morning (Oct 29). According to the latest data collected by SAFAR-India, the air quality near Delhi University was in the 'Very Poor' category with AQI recorded at 341 in the early morning hours while in the area around IIT, it was recorded at 300. Delhi's 15-point winter action plan Meanwhile, in the area around Lodhi Road, the AQI was recorded at 262 and the air was categorised in the 'Poor' category. In its bulletin, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on the air quality of the national capital forecasted that predominant surface wind is likely to blow from different directions in the city and the wind speed is estimated to be around 04-08 kmph, which will lead to mist and clear sky in the morning on October 29. Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Friday (Oct 27) had stated that they have implemented a 15-point winter action plan for curbing the pollution. Watch | Indian troops in Maldives asked to leave by President-elect "Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had earlier announced a 15-point winter action plan to curb the pollution caused by vehicles, biomass burning, dust, etc. Now this winter action plan is being implemented on the ground one by one to reduce the pollution in the national capital," Rai said while speaking to the news agency ANI. "Now the data says that in AQI the level of Particulate matter (PM) 10 is decreasing and that of PM2.5 is increasing. This means that pollution caused by vehicles and biomass burning is increasing. For this, the 'Red Light on, Gaadi off' campaign has been started," he added. According to the daily bulletin of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI of Delhi was 304 as of 4 pm local time on October 28. From October 29 to 31, the air quality will be in the 'Very Poor' category, as per the Air Quality and Weather Bulletin for Delhi. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Delhi's air quality falls in 'very poor' category with the AQI at 309

After 15 years of court trial, a Delhi court on Wednesday convicted five men for the murder of TV journalist Soumya Vishwanathan. The Delhi court held Ravi Kapoor, Amit Shukla, Baljeet Malik and Ajay Kumar guilty of murder while convicting Ajay Sethi of stealing property under the sections of MCOCA (Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act) 1999.

After 15 years of court trial, a Delhi court on Wednesday convicted five men for the murder of TV journalist Soumya Vishwanathan. The Delhi court held Ravi Kapoor, Amit Shukla, Baljeet Malik and Ajay Kumar guilty of murder while convicting Ajay Sethi of stealing property under the sections of MCOCA (Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act) 1999. Soumya's mother, Madhavi Vishwanath, told Hindustan Times, "We have been fighting for 15 years. It's a relief, but we have lost our daughter." She said," We are not in favour of the death penalty. We want them to suffer like we are suffering." Here's everything you need to know about the Soumya Vishwanathan murder case before the court announces the quantum of sentence for the convicted men. What's the Soumya Vishwanathan Murder Case? On 30 September 2008, Soumya Vishwanathan, a 25-year-old correspondent working with India Today, was found dead in her car on Nelson Mandela Marg in South Delhi. She was reportedly returning home from work at 03:30 am. Initially, the cops struggled to find her killers. But during a 2009 investigation into the murder of BPO employee Jigisha Ghosh, one of the accused confessed to being involved in Soumya's murder. In April 2009, the Delhi police charged the accused under the MCOCA in the Soumya Vishwanathan murder case. They filed a chargesheet against five men, Ravi Kapoor, Amit Shukla, Baljeet Malik, Ajay Kumar and Ajay Sethi in June 2009. ALSO READ | Same-sex marriage: Former SC judge Indu Malhotra explains why legislation is essential in India The authorities charged them with murder, robbery, and other offences in 2010. In August 2016, a trial court sentenced Ravi Kapoor and Amit Shukla to death in the 2009 Jigisha Ghosh murder case while sentencing Baljeet Malik to life imprisonment. However, in January 2018, the Delhi High Court upheld Malik's sentence while commuting Kapoor and Shukla's death sentences to life imprisonment. On 27 February 2019, Malik filed a plea in the Delhi High Court to speed up the trial. Finally, in May 2023, after 15 years of her murder, final arguments commenced after the court concluded the recording of evidence. On 13 October 2023, Additional Sessions Judge Ravindra Kumar Pandey reserved the judgment in the case after the completion of arguments by the defence and prosecution. Five days later, on 18 October 2023, the Delhi court convicted Kapoor, Shukla, Kumar and Malik for Soumya Vishwanath's murder and Sethi for receiving stolen property under the MCOCA. The court has set the date for sentencing on 26 October 2023. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Soumya Vishwanathan Case: Murder of TV journalist that shocked Delhi 15 years ago; Here's all you need to know

As the war continues between the terrorist group Hamas and Israel, India's national capital has been placed on security alert amid fear of potential protests in the city, said police authorities.&nbsp;

Delhi Police personnel will be deployed on the streets of the nation's capital in heavy numbers ahead of the Friday prayers. Security has also been increased at the Israel Embassy and the Jewish religious establishments.&nbsp;

As per media reports, some other states and Union Territories of India have also been alerted by the security agencies to ensure that the Israelis residing in the country are safe.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-gaza-strip-and-the-struggle-for-survival-for-millions-of-its-residents-645290">Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents</a>

The step has been taken after many countries, which include France, Germany, the US and the UK, increased the security around "potential Jewish targets" and "pro-Palestinian protesters" in the wake of escalating violence between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;

State authorities in Himachal Pradesh, Goa and Maharashtra were asked to ensure the security of Israeli diplomats, staff and tourists, they stated.&nbsp;

<h2>Operation Ajay:&nbsp;First flight with Indian citizens arrives from Israel&nbsp;</h2>

On Friday morning, the first charter flight carrying the Indian citizens, who were evacuated from Israel, came back to the country under 'Operation Ajay'. The flight, which was carrying 211 adults and an infant who were living in the war-battered region, landed safely in New Delhi.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Israel took the vow to carry out an unprecedented offensive against the terrorist group Hamas, which controls Gaza, after its fighters broke through Israel's border fence and also stormed into the southern part of the country through air and sea on October 7.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war | Gaza: An 'open-air prison' with no escape

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The Israeli military, on the sixth day, confirmed that more than 1,300 people were killed in Israel, which included 222 soldiers. This is a staggering death toll which was not recorded since the 1973 war with Egypt and Syria, which lasted for weeks.

In the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip around 1,417 people, which included women and children, were killed, as per the local authorities.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the war continues between the terrorist group Hamas and Israel, India's national capital has been placed on security alert amid fear of potential protests in the city, said police authorities.

As the war continues between the terrorist group Hamas and Israel, India's national capital has been placed on security alert amid fear of potential protests in the city, said police authorities. Delhi Police personnel will be deployed on the streets of the nation's capital in heavy numbers ahead of the Friday prayers. Security has also been increased at the Israel Embassy and the Jewish religious establishments. As per media reports, some other states and Union Territories of India have also been alerted by the security agencies to ensure that the Israelis residing in the country are safe. Also read: Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents The step has been taken after many countries, which include France, Germany, the US and the UK, increased the security around "potential Jewish targets" and "pro-Palestinian protesters" in the wake of escalating violence between Israel and Hamas. State authorities in Himachal Pradesh, Goa and Maharashtra were asked to ensure the security of Israeli diplomats, staff and tourists, they stated. Operation Ajay: First flight with Indian citizens arrives from Israel On Friday morning, the first charter flight carrying the Indian citizens, who were evacuated from Israel, came back to the country under 'Operation Ajay'. The flight, which was carrying 211 adults and an infant who were living in the war-battered region, landed safely in New Delhi. Israel took the vow to carry out an unprecedented offensive against the terrorist group Hamas, which controls Gaza, after its fighters broke through Israel's border fence and also stormed into the southern part of the country through air and sea on October 7. WATCH | Israel-Hamas war | Gaza: An 'open-air prison' with no escape The Israeli military, on the sixth day, confirmed that more than 1,300 people were killed in Israel, which included 222 soldiers. This is a staggering death toll which was not recorded since the 1973 war with Egypt and Syria, which lasted for weeks. In the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip around 1,417 people, which included women and children, were killed, as per the local authorities. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Amid raging Israel-Hamas war, India’s capital Delhi placed on security alert

The Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party leaders, on Thursday (Oct 5), flocked to Rajghat, Mahatma Gandhi's memorial, and held a prayer meeting for the "liberation" of people from the "corrupt" AAP government in the city.

Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva stated that their party's struggle to liberate people from the clutches of the "corrupt" AAP government headed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will continue.

He claimed that Kejriwal was the "kingpin" of the alleged liquor scam in Delhi further reiterating Mahatma Gandhi's teachings who said alcohol destroys both the body and the soul.

"Kejriwal has not only destroyed the soul but also the entire Aam Aadmi Party," Sachdeva said, launching an attack on the AAP National Convener and the Delhi Chief Minister.

The Bharatiya Janata Party has been hitting out at the Kejriwal government since Wednesday (Oct 4), after AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in a Delhi excise policy-related case.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-delhis-aap-stages-protests-across-nation-against-arrest-of-its-mp-sanjay-singh-642822"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-delhis-aap-stages-protests-across-nation-against-arrest-of-its-mp-sanjay-singh-642822">India: Delhi’s AAP stages protests across nation against arrest of its MP Sanjay Singh</a>

<h2>ED arrests Sanjay Singh</h2>

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sanjay Singh was arrested on Wednesday (Oct 4) by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the Delhi excise policy case.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, the central agency searched his residence in India's capital in connection with its money laundering investigation into the alleged irregularities in Delhi excise policy 2021-22.&nbsp;

According to the officials, the premises of others linked to the case were also covered during the search operation. The ED said that they earlier questioned the members of staff and those linked to the 51-year-old Rajya Sabha MP. &nbsp;

ED claimed that the AAP leader helped formulate and implement the excise policy which benefited certain liquor manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers.&nbsp;

Authorities alleged that the Delhi government's excise policy for 2021-22 to grant licences to liquor traders allowed cartelisation and favoured specific dealers who had allegedly paid bribes for it, a charge strongly refuted by the AAP.&nbsp;

On the arrest of Singh, Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva said, "Today, one thing is clear that the truth cannot be hidden...After Sanjay Singh, it's Arvind Kejriwal."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party leaders, on Thursday (Oct 5), flocked to Rajghat, Mahatma Gandhi's memorial, and held a prayer meeting for the "liberation" of people from the "corrupt" AAP government in the city.

The Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party leaders, on Thursday (Oct 5), flocked to Rajghat, Mahatma Gandhi's memorial, and held a prayer meeting for the "liberation" of people from the "corrupt" AAP government in the city. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva stated that their party's struggle to liberate people from the clutches of the "corrupt" AAP government headed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will continue. He claimed that Kejriwal was the "kingpin" of the alleged liquor scam in Delhi further reiterating Mahatma Gandhi's teachings who said alcohol destroys both the body and the soul. "Kejriwal has not only destroyed the soul but also the entire Aam Aadmi Party," Sachdeva said, launching an attack on the AAP National Convener and the Delhi Chief Minister. The Bharatiya Janata Party has been hitting out at the Kejriwal government since Wednesday (Oct 4), after AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in a Delhi excise policy-related case. Also read: India: Delhi’s AAP stages protests across nation against arrest of its MP Sanjay Singh ED arrests Sanjay Singh Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sanjay Singh was arrested on Wednesday (Oct 4) by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the Delhi excise policy case. Earlier in the day, the central agency searched his residence in India's capital in connection with its money laundering investigation into the alleged irregularities in Delhi excise policy 2021-22. According to the officials, the premises of others linked to the case were also covered during the search operation. The ED said that they earlier questioned the members of staff and those linked to the 51-year-old Rajya Sabha MP. ED claimed that the AAP leader helped formulate and implement the excise policy which benefited certain liquor manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers. Authorities alleged that the Delhi government's excise policy for 2021-22 to grant licences to liquor traders allowed cartelisation and favoured specific dealers who had allegedly paid bribes for it, a charge strongly refuted by the AAP. On the arrest of Singh, Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva said, "Today, one thing is clear that the truth cannot be hidden...After Sanjay Singh, it's Arvind Kejriwal." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Delhi BJP leaders hold prayer meeting at Rajghat to 'liberate' people from clutches of 'corrupt' AAP govt

The Supreme Court on Wednesday (September 13), declined to meddle with the Delhi government's decision to ban the manufacture, storage, sale and bursting of firecrackers in the national capital.

BJP Lok Sabha MP Manoj Tiwari told a bench of Justices AS Bopanna and MM Sundresh that a comprehensive ban has been imposed on firecrackers despite the court allowing bursting of green firecrackers.

"No, we are not going to interfere. Where the government has banned firecrackers, it means a complete ban. People's health is important. If you want to burst firecrackers, go to states where there is no ban," the bench told the counsel for Tiwari.

The counsel said his client being an MP was responsible towards his constituents and the court has itself allowed the bursting of green firecrackers.

"You should make the people understand that they should not burst firecrackers. Even you should not burst firecrackers during victory processions after elections. There are other ways of celebrating the victory," the bench told Tiwari, who is an MP from North East Delhi.

<h2>Delhi government's blanket ban on firecrackers</h2>

Delhi's Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced a comprehensive ban on the manufacture, storage, sale and bursting of firecrackers in India's capital city on Monday (September 11).

Addressing a press conference on Monday in the Delhi secretariat, Rai said, “Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has brought a comprehensive policy to bring down pollution levels in Delhi. The government is stepping up its preparations this year and in this sequence, the government has imposed a ban on crackers in Delhi this year.”

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-cow-vigilante-monu-manesar-arrested-for-inflammatory-social-media-posts-amid-murder-investigations-635241">India: Cow vigilante Monu Manesar arrested for 'inflammatory' social media posts amid murder investigations</a>

“In this regard, DPCC has been instructed to issue necessary instructions to all concerned departments. Just as instructions have been given to impose a complete ban on firecrackers in Delhi, similarly a ban should be imposed in the NCR states because the firecrackers burst in NCR have an adverse effect on the air of Delhi,” the minister added.

He further elucidated that the air quality worsens greatly, making it crucial to restrain the usage of firecrackers.

He said, “Pollution levels increase inside Delhi in winter. From January to August, the average AQI of Delhi has been quite low. AQI 45 was recorded in Delhi yesterday. But gradually in October, with the increase in winter, the atmosphere of Delhi becomes humid and particle matter starts accumulating here. In this, the pollution outside Delhi and inside Delhi makes the air here more polluted. On 23 October 2018, the Honorable Supreme Court permitted the manufacture and sale of only green crackers. But because of the increasing problem of pollution in 2019, on 1st December 2020, the NGT directed to impose a complete ban on all types of firecrackers if the AQI is in the poor and above category. Based on that, DPCC had imposed a complete ban on firecrackers in 2021. A complete ban was also imposed in 2022 and this year instructions have been given to impose a complete ban on all types of firecrackers.”

Gopal Rai said that on September 14th, a joint meeting involving 28 concerned departments will gather in order to frame a coordinated action plan against pollution.

“The meeting will include all senior representatives from the Environment Department, DPCC, MCD, NDMC, Cantonment Board, NHAI, Revenue, Delhi Jal Board, Delhi Fire Services, DTC, DMRC, DIMTS, Horticulture, DSIIDC, GAD, Power Department, DDA, CPWD, PWD, Traffic Police, Education, Industry, Forest, I&amp;FC, UD, DUSIB, Transport Department, and Development Department etc. The major goal of this meeting is to create a coordinated action plan in the fight against Delhi's pollution. Based on the key points outlined in the Winter Action Plan, specific responsibilities will be given to various departments during the meeting scheduled for September 14,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The Supreme Court on Wednesday (September 13), declined to meddle with the Delhi government's decision to ban the manufacture, storage, sale and bursting of firecrackers in the national capital.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday (September 13), declined to meddle with the Delhi government's decision to ban the manufacture, storage, sale and bursting of firecrackers in the national capital. BJP Lok Sabha MP Manoj Tiwari told a bench of Justices AS Bopanna and MM Sundresh that a comprehensive ban has been imposed on firecrackers despite the court allowing bursting of green firecrackers. "No, we are not going to interfere. Where the government has banned firecrackers, it means a complete ban. People's health is important. If you want to burst firecrackers, go to states where there is no ban," the bench told the counsel for Tiwari. The counsel said his client being an MP was responsible towards his constituents and the court has itself allowed the bursting of green firecrackers. "You should make the people understand that they should not burst firecrackers. Even you should not burst firecrackers during victory processions after elections. There are other ways of celebrating the victory," the bench told Tiwari, who is an MP from North East Delhi. Delhi government's blanket ban on firecrackers Delhi's Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced a comprehensive ban on the manufacture, storage, sale and bursting of firecrackers in India's capital city on Monday (September 11). Addressing a press conference on Monday in the Delhi secretariat, Rai said, “Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has brought a comprehensive policy to bring down pollution levels in Delhi. The government is stepping up its preparations this year and in this sequence, the government has imposed a ban on crackers in Delhi this year.” Also read: India: Cow vigilante Monu Manesar arrested for 'inflammatory' social media posts amid murder investigations “In this regard, DPCC has been instructed to issue necessary instructions to all concerned departments. Just as instructions have been given to impose a complete ban on firecrackers in Delhi, similarly a ban should be imposed in the NCR states because the firecrackers burst in NCR have an adverse effect on the air of Delhi,” the minister added. He further elucidated that the air quality worsens greatly, making it crucial to restrain the usage of firecrackers. He said, “Pollution levels increase inside Delhi in winter. From January to August, the average AQI of Delhi has been quite low. AQI 45 was recorded in Delhi yesterday. But gradually in October, with the increase in winter, the atmosphere of Delhi becomes humid and particle matter starts accumulating here. In this, the pollution outside Delhi and inside Delhi makes the air here more polluted. On 23 October 2018, the Honorable Supreme Court permitted the manufacture and sale of only green crackers. But because of the increasing problem of pollution in 2019, on 1st December 2020, the NGT directed to impose a complete ban on all types of firecrackers if the AQI is in the poor and above category. Based on that, DPCC had imposed a complete ban on firecrackers in 2021. A complete ban was also imposed in 2022 and this year instructions have been given to impose a complete ban on all types of firecrackers.” Gopal Rai said that on September 14th, a joint meeting involving 28 concerned departments will gather in order to frame a coordinated action plan against pollution. “The meeting will include all senior representatives from the Environment Department, DPCC, MCD, NDMC, Cantonment Board, NHAI, Revenue, Delhi Jal Board, Delhi Fire Services, DTC, DMRC, DIMTS, Horticulture, DSIIDC, GAD, Power Department, DDA, CPWD, PWD, Traffic Police, Education, Industry, Forest, I&FC, UD, DUSIB, Transport Department, and Development Department etc. The major goal of this meeting is to create a coordinated action plan in the fight against Delhi's pollution. Based on the key points outlined in the Winter Action Plan, specific responsibilities will be given to various departments during the meeting scheduled for September 14,” he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Supreme Court refuses to interfere with Delhi government's ban on firecrackers

Ahead of Diwali, the Delhi government on Monday (September 11) re-imposed a ban on all firecrackers, due to the rise in pollution levels in winter when the air quality reaches hazardous levels, said the Indian capital city’s environment minister. India will be celebrating the festival of Diwali in mid-November this year.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Delhi govt restricting?</h2>

“Manufacturing, storage, sale, online delivery and bursting of any type of firecrackers is completely prohibited in Delhi,” said Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai, during a press conference. The police have also been instructed to issue a circular on behalf of the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) that no licence will be issued, he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-anti-pollution-body-revamps-action-plan-to-combat-air-quality-in-delhi-ncr-620694">India's anti-pollution body revamps action-plan to combat air quality in Delhi-NCR</a>

This comes as Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has decided that firecrackers should be banned on the occasion of Diwali to control pollution, he said.&nbsp;

The move is aimed at controlling air pollution which typically peaks across the Indian capital city in December and January due to a range of factors.

“Celebrating festivals is important, but equally important is caring for the environment. That’s why we have made this decision in Delhi for the last 2 years, and the people of Delhi are supportive,” said Rai.&nbsp;

<h2>Pollution in Delhi during winter</h2>

During winter, smoke from hundreds of firecrackers that light up the sky during the festival usually leaves the city shrouded in toxic haze for days.&nbsp;

This is in addition to vehicular and industrial emissions as well as pollution from stubble burning in neighbouring regions, which are made worse as colder air traps all of these pollutants.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-new-delhis-air-quality-commission-issues-revised-advisory-620857">India: New Delhi's air quality commission issues revised advisory</a>

In a bid to control some of the pollution, the Delhi government has been imposing a ban on all types of firecrackers for the past three years, warning of jail time and fines for those flouting the orders.&nbsp;

Rai also noted a positive trend in Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) for the year from January to August but expressed concerns about the upcoming months.

The Delhi government is also set to meet with experts this week to draw up a winter action plan to combat pollution, the spike of which has prompted school closures and public health emergency declarations over the years.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-delhi-had-cleanest-air-day-of-the-year-on-second-day-of-summit-634756">G20: Delhi had cleanest air day of the year on second day of summit</a>

The Indian capital also reported its best air quality since 2015 last year.

The G20 Summit host city, on the second day of the meetings on Sunday (Sep 10), said that the average AQI stood at 45, falling within the ‘good’ category, which was the best recorded since October 10, 2022.&nbsp;

The improved air quality is being attributed to the incessant rainfall and various restrictions imposed during the G20 summit.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Ahead of Diwali, the Delhi government on Monday (September 11) re-imposed a ban on all firecrackers, due to the rise in pollution levels in winter when the air quality reaches hazardous levels, said the Indian capital city’s environment minister.

Ahead of Diwali, the Delhi government on Monday (September 11) re-imposed a ban on all firecrackers, due to the rise in pollution levels in winter when the air quality reaches hazardous levels, said the Indian capital city’s environment minister. India will be celebrating the festival of Diwali in mid-November this year. What is the Delhi govt restricting? “Manufacturing, storage, sale, online delivery and bursting of any type of firecrackers is completely prohibited in Delhi,” said Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai, during a press conference. The police have also been instructed to issue a circular on behalf of the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) that no licence will be issued, he added. ALSO READ | India's anti-pollution body revamps action-plan to combat air quality in Delhi-NCR This comes as Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has decided that firecrackers should be banned on the occasion of Diwali to control pollution, he said. The move is aimed at controlling air pollution which typically peaks across the Indian capital city in December and January due to a range of factors. “Celebrating festivals is important, but equally important is caring for the environment. That’s why we have made this decision in Delhi for the last 2 years, and the people of Delhi are supportive,” said Rai. Pollution in Delhi during winter During winter, smoke from hundreds of firecrackers that light up the sky during the festival usually leaves the city shrouded in toxic haze for days. This is in addition to vehicular and industrial emissions as well as pollution from stubble burning in neighbouring regions, which are made worse as colder air traps all of these pollutants. ALSO WATCH | India: New Delhi's air quality commission issues revised advisory In a bid to control some of the pollution, the Delhi government has been imposing a ban on all types of firecrackers for the past three years, warning of jail time and fines for those flouting the orders. Rai also noted a positive trend in Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) for the year from January to August but expressed concerns about the upcoming months. The Delhi government is also set to meet with experts this week to draw up a winter action plan to combat pollution, the spike of which has prompted school closures and public health emergency declarations over the years. ALSO READ | G20: Delhi had cleanest air day of the year on second day of summit The Indian capital also reported its best air quality since 2015 last year. The G20 Summit host city, on the second day of the meetings on Sunday (Sep 10), said that the average AQI stood at 45, falling within the ‘good’ category, which was the best recorded since October 10, 2022. The improved air quality is being attributed to the incessant rainfall and various restrictions imposed during the G20 summit. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Delhi govt renews ban on firecrackers to combat pollution

In pics | UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and wife Akshata Murty visit Akshardham Temple in Delhi

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Saturday (September 9), launched the Global Biofuels Alliance in the presence of United States President Joe Biden, President of Brazil Luiz Inacio, President of Argentina, Alberto Fernández and Prime Minister of Italy Giorgia Meloni.

Earlier in the day, PM Modi had announced the launch of the Biofuel Alliance and urged the G20 nations to join the initiative with a petition to take ethanol blending with petrol globally to 20%.

"Today, the need of the hour is that all countries should work together in the field of fuel blending. Our proposal is to take an initiative at a global level to take ethanol blending in petrol up to 20%," he said.

"Or alternatively, we could work on developing another blending mix for the greater global good, one that ensures a stable energy supply while also contributing to climate security," PM Modi said at the session attended by U.S. President Joe Biden, Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak among others.

The Global Biofuel Alliance is one of the priorities under India’s G20 Presidency. The leading biofuel producers and consumers, Brazil, India, and the United States, will work together during the next few months towards the development of a Global Biofuels Alliance along with other countries that are interested.

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&nbsp;

The Alliance will be aimed at boosting cooperation and heightening the use of sustainable biofuels, even in the transportation sector. It will focus on bolstering markets, facilitating global biofuels trade, developing concrete policy lesson-sharing and providing technical support for national biofuels programs worldwide.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-leaders-reach-consensus-new-delhi-leaders-declaration-adopted-634091">G20 Summit: Leaders reach consensus, Delhi declaration adopted</a>

It shall work in collaboration with and complement the pertinent existing regional and international agencies as well as initiatives in the bioenergy, bioeconomy, and energy transition fields more extensively, including the Clean Energy Ministerial Biofuture Platform, the Mission Innovation Bioenergy initiatives, and the Global Bioenergy Partnership (GBEP).

The alliance will work towards enriching global collaboration and partnership for the accelerated adoption of biofuels by recognising global best practices for the development and deployment of sustainable biofuels and bioproducts. Nineteen countries agreed to stand with India as initiating members of the Global Biofuels Alliance.

Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, while addressing a joint press conference on Saturday, said that the declaration aims at accelerating progress on Sustainable Development Goals and has hence come up with an action plan.

“The declaration the leaders have agreed on today focuses on promoting strong, sustainable, balanced and inclusive growth. It seeks to accelerate progress on SDGs and has come up with an action plan accordingly,” the minister said. &nbsp;

“It envisages a green development pact for a sustainable future, it endorses high-level principles on lifestyle for sustainable development, voluntary principles of hydrogen, the Chennai principles for a sustainable resilient blue economy and the Deccan principles on food security and nutrition among others,” he added.

(With inputs from the agencies) 
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Saturday (September 9), launched the Global Biofuels Alliance in the presence of United States President Joe Biden, President of Brazil Luiz Inacio, President of Argentina, Alberto Fernández and Prime Minister of Italy Giorgia Meloni.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Saturday (September 9), launched the Global Biofuels Alliance in the presence of United States President Joe Biden, President of Brazil Luiz Inacio, President of Argentina, Alberto Fernández and Prime Minister of Italy Giorgia Meloni. Earlier in the day, PM Modi had announced the launch of the Biofuel Alliance and urged the G20 nations to join the initiative with a petition to take ethanol blending with petrol globally to 20%. "Today, the need of the hour is that all countries should work together in the field of fuel blending. Our proposal is to take an initiative at a global level to take ethanol blending in petrol up to 20%," he said. "Or alternatively, we could work on developing another blending mix for the greater global good, one that ensures a stable energy supply while also contributing to climate security," PM Modi said at the session attended by U.S. President Joe Biden, Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak among others. The Global Biofuel Alliance is one of the priorities under India’s G20 Presidency. The leading biofuel producers and consumers, Brazil, India, and the United States, will work together during the next few months towards the development of a Global Biofuels Alliance along with other countries that are interested. #WATCH | G-20 in India: PM Narendra Modi launches 'Global Biofuels Alliance' in the presence of US President Joe Biden, President of Brazil Luiz Inacio, President of Argentina, Alberto Fernández and Prime Minister of Italy Giorgia Meloni. pic.twitter.com/fPpm77ONax — ANI (@ANI) September 9, 2023 × The Alliance will be aimed at boosting cooperation and heightening the use of sustainable biofuels, even in the transportation sector. It will focus on bolstering markets, facilitating global biofuels trade, developing concrete policy lesson-sharing and providing technical support for national biofuels programs worldwide. Also read: G20 Summit: Leaders reach consensus, Delhi declaration adopted It shall work in collaboration with and complement the pertinent existing regional and international agencies as well as initiatives in the bioenergy, bioeconomy, and energy transition fields more extensively, including the Clean Energy Ministerial Biofuture Platform, the Mission Innovation Bioenergy initiatives, and the Global Bioenergy Partnership (GBEP). The alliance will work towards enriching global collaboration and partnership for the accelerated adoption of biofuels by recognising global best practices for the development and deployment of sustainable biofuels and bioproducts. Nineteen countries agreed to stand with India as initiating members of the Global Biofuels Alliance. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, while addressing a joint press conference on Saturday, said that the declaration aims at accelerating progress on Sustainable Development Goals and has hence come up with an action plan. “The declaration the leaders have agreed on today focuses on promoting strong, sustainable, balanced and inclusive growth. It seeks to accelerate progress on SDGs and has come up with an action plan accordingly,” the minister said. “It envisages a green development pact for a sustainable future, it endorses high-level principles on lifestyle for sustainable development, voluntary principles of hydrogen, the Chennai principles for a sustainable resilient blue economy and the Deccan principles on food security and nutrition among others,” he added. (With inputs from the agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Delhi G20 Summit: PM Modi launches Global Biofuels Alliance, 19 countries with India as initiating members

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