Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi dropped slightly on Friday morning representing improved air quality in the national capital. The city recorded an AQI of 198. On Thursday, the average AQI was recorded to be 208. AQI of 198 falls in 'moderate' category.

Delhi's air quality had turned poor on Wednesday, the first time in since June 29, with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recording a 24-hour average AQI of 215. The AQI was 230 on June 29.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'.

Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor SAFAR said that AQI may improve by Saturday.

A gradual increase in farm fires around Punjab, Haryana and other areas has been seen. Wind direction and speed are favourable for transport of pollutants toward Delhi. However, a shift in wind direction is expected.

High levels of air pollution in Delhi is a year-round problem, which can be attributed to unfavourable meteorological conditions, farm fires in neighbouring regions and local sources of pollution.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/crowds-throng-delhis-small-eatery-baba-ka-dhaba-as-emotional-video-goes-viral-333520">Crowds throng Delhi's small eatery 'Baba Ka Dhaba' as emotional video goes viral</a>

According to an analysis by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water, a Delhi-based think tank, transportation contributes the most -- 18 to 39 per cent -- to Delhi's air pollution.

Road dust is the second-largest source of air pollution in the city (18 to 38 per cent), followed by industries (2 to 29 per cent), thermal power plants (3 to 11 per cent) and construction (8 per cent).

The Delhi government on Monday launched a massive anti-air pollution campaign.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said he himself will review the situation daily.

A "green" war room was also inaugurated by Environment Minister Gopal Rai at the Delhi Secretariat to monitor the steps being taken to deal with high levels of air pollution in winters.

The government will also start the spraying of 'Pusa bio-decomposer' solution in non-Basmati rice fields in the national capital, starting October 11.

The solution, experts say, can turn stubble into manure in 15 to 20 days and therefore, can prevent stubble burning.

Starting October 15, stricter measures to fight air pollution will also come into force in Delhi and its neighbourhood as part of the Graded Response Action Plan, which was first implemented in Delhi-NCR in 2017.

These measures include increasing bus and metro services, hiking parking fees and stopping use of diesel generator sets when the air quality turns poor.

When the situation turns "severe", GRAP recommends closure of brick kilns, stone crushers and hot mix plants, sprinkling of water, frequent mechanised cleaning of roads and maximising power generation from natural gas.

The measures to be followed in the "emergency" situation include stopping entry of trucks in Delhi, ban on construction activities and introduction of the odd-even car rationing scheme.&nbsp;

(With PTI inputs)

Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi dropped slightly on Friday morning representing improved air quality in the national capital. The city recorded an AQI of 198. On Thursday, the average AQI was recorded to be 208.

Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi dropped slightly on Friday morning representing improved air quality in the national capital. The city recorded an AQI of 198. On Thursday, the average AQI was recorded to be 208. AQI of 198 falls in 'moderate' category. Delhi's air quality had turned poor on Wednesday, the first time in since June 29, with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recording a 24-hour average AQI of 215. The AQI was 230 on June 29. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor SAFAR said that AQI may improve by Saturday. A gradual increase in farm fires around Punjab, Haryana and other areas has been seen. Wind direction and speed are favourable for transport of pollutants toward Delhi. However, a shift in wind direction is expected. High levels of air pollution in Delhi is a year-round problem, which can be attributed to unfavourable meteorological conditions, farm fires in neighbouring regions and local sources of pollution. Also Read | Crowds throng Delhi's small eatery 'Baba Ka Dhaba' as emotional video goes viral According to an analysis by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water, a Delhi-based think tank, transportation contributes the most -- 18 to 39 per cent -- to Delhi's air pollution. Road dust is the second-largest source of air pollution in the city (18 to 38 per cent), followed by industries (2 to 29 per cent), thermal power plants (3 to 11 per cent) and construction (8 per cent). The Delhi government on Monday launched a massive anti-air pollution campaign. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said he himself will review the situation daily. A "green" war room was also inaugurated by Environment Minister Gopal Rai at the Delhi Secretariat to monitor the steps being taken to deal with high levels of air pollution in winters. The government will also start the spraying of 'Pusa bio-decomposer' solution in non-Basmati rice fields in the national capital, starting October 11. The solution, experts say, can turn stubble into manure in 15 to 20 days and therefore, can prevent stubble burning. Starting October 15, stricter measures to fight air pollution will also come into force in Delhi and its neighbourhood as part of the Graded Response Action Plan, which was first implemented in Delhi-NCR in 2017. These measures include increasing bus and metro services, hiking parking fees and stopping use of diesel generator sets when the air quality turns poor. When the situation turns "severe", GRAP recommends closure of brick kilns, stone crushers and hot mix plants, sprinkling of water, frequent mechanised cleaning of roads and maximising power generation from natural gas. The measures to be followed in the "emergency" situation include stopping entry of trucks in Delhi, ban on construction activities and introduction of the odd-even car rationing scheme. (With PTI inputs)

Air quality in Delhi improves slightly, stubble burning continues in neighbour states

The power of social media! On Wednesday Delhi based food blogger Gaurav Wasan shared a video of an elderly couple struggling to run a small eatery in New Delhi. The video was shared on Wasan's Youtube channel as well as Instagram handle and went viral almost immediately.

The video features a small eatery called ‘Baba Ka Dhaba’ in Malviya Nagar in South Delhi and has the stall's 80-year-old owner Kanta Prasad and his wife showing vessels full of home-cooked food to the camera. Prasad gets teary-eyed near the end of the video as Wasan asks how much has been his earning for the day. Prasad can be seen taking out a few Rs 10 notes and saying that the pandemic has effected his small business.

The couple state they are unable to more than Rs 80 a day, despite starting their day as early as 6.30 am. “Ever since the lockdown, life has been very difficult”, Prasad said. Wasan can be heard promising him help.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/b-WSTYgFA8k" width="560"></iframe>

The heart wrenching video has caught the Internet's attention and has been viewed over 1 lakh times on Youtube alone. There has been an outpour of help with celebrities as well as political leaders reaching out to extend financial help for the couple. What more, on Thursday the small eatery was sold out in the first half of the day as people lined up to taste home-cooked meals by the couple.

A social media campaign led to the #BabaKaDhaba and #MalviyaNagar trend on Twitter and multiple people posted images and videos of their visits to the eatery after seeing the video.

“There was no sale during the lockdown but now it feels like whole India is with us,” said Prasad on Thursday as he served people.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: "It feels like whole India is with us. Everyone is helping us", says Kanta Prasad, owner of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BabaKaDhabha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BabaKaDhabha</a>. 
 
The stall in Delhi's Malviya Nagar saw heavy footfall of customers after a video of the owner couple went viral. <a href="https://t.co/nNpne6Arqs">pic.twitter.com/nNpne6Arqs</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1314135284997480448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Cricketer R Ashwin, actors Randeep Hooda, Sonam Kapoor, Swara Bhasker, Raveena Tandon, and a host of other stars have extended support and urged their fans on social media to go visit the eatery.

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I am not able to message you, but is there a way I can help that man?? I would like to contribute.
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1313911261835517952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Hi could you please dm me details.
— Sonam K Ahuja (@sonamakapoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/sonamakapoor/status/1313953205622132736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%BE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#बाबाकाढाबा</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/dilliwalon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#dilliwalon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/dil?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#dil</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/dikhao?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#dikhao</a>. Whoever eats here, sends me pic, I shall put up a sweet message with your pics ! ♥️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/supportlocalbusiness?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#supportlocalbusiness</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/localvendors?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#localvendors</a> <a href="https://t.co/5DH73wz3SD">https://t.co/5DH73wz3SD</a>
— Raveena Tandon (@TandonRaveena) <a href="https://twitter.com/TandonRaveena/status/1314061059305553920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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दिल्ली! चलो ‘बाबा का ढाबा’ पर मटर पनीर खाते हैं! मालवीय नगर में! 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽💜💜💜 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SupportSmallBusinesses?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SupportSmallBusinesses</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VocalForLocal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VocalForLocal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShowHeart?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ShowHeart</a> <a href="https://t.co/khus7WJMB8">https://t.co/khus7WJMB8</a>
— Swara Bhasker (@ReallySwara) <a href="https://twitter.com/ReallySwara/status/1313952907977465856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Do visit if you are in Delhi! 🙏🙏 
 
बाबा का ढाबा 
Block B, Shivalik Colony, Opposite Hanuman Mandir, Malviya Nagar, South Delhi. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SupportLocal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SupportLocal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BabaKaDhaba?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BabaKaDhaba</a> <a href="https://t.co/yEfZPx3YAG">https://t.co/yEfZPx3YAG</a>
— Randeep Hooda (@RandeepHooda) <a href="https://twitter.com/RandeepHooda/status/1314088379877793792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Spread the word around. 
 
Wipe his tears <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BabaKaDhaba?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BabaKaDhaba</a> <a href="https://t.co/BE9cXGEnSs">https://t.co/BE9cXGEnSs</a>
— RAHUL SRIVASTAV (@upcoprahul) <a href="https://twitter.com/upcoprahul/status/1314048286949478400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The local MLA, AAP leader Somnath Bharti also has visited the stall. “Will take care of them n I am starting a drive 2 take care of similarly placed people,” he tweeted and later shared photos of his visit.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/RICHA_LAKHERA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RICHA_LAKHERA</a> .<a href="https://twitter.com/VasundharaTankh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VasundharaTankh</a> .<a href="https://twitter.com/sohitmishra99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sohitmishra99</a> .<a href="https://twitter.com/sakshijoshii?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sakshijoshii</a> .<a href="https://twitter.com/RifatJawaid?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RifatJawaid</a> .<a href="https://twitter.com/ShonakshiC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShonakshiC</a> .<a href="https://twitter.com/TheDeshBhakt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheDeshBhakt</a> Visited "Baba Ka Dhaba" n hv done d needful to bring SMILE on their faces as promised. Will take care of them n I am starting a drive 2 take care of similarly placed people. <a href="https://t.co/S9A94AmJxK">pic.twitter.com/S9A94AmJxK</a>
— Adv. Somnath Bharti (@attorneybharti) <a href="https://twitter.com/attorneybharti/status/1314040199685574656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The power of social media! On Wednesday Delhi based food blogger Gaurav Wasan shared a video of an elderly couple struggling to run a small eatery in New Delhi. The video was shared on Wasan's Youtube channel as well as Instagram handle and went viral almost immediately.

The power of social media! On Wednesday Delhi based food blogger Gaurav Wasan shared a video of an elderly couple struggling to run a small eatery in New Delhi. The video was shared on Wasan's Youtube channel as well as Instagram handle and went viral almost immediately. The video features a small eatery called ‘Baba Ka Dhaba’ in Malviya Nagar in South Delhi and has the stall's 80-year-old owner Kanta Prasad and his wife showing vessels full of home-cooked food to the camera. Prasad gets teary-eyed near the end of the video as Wasan asks how much has been his earning for the day. Prasad can be seen taking out a few Rs 10 notes and saying that the pandemic has effected his small business. The couple state they are unable to more than Rs 80 a day, despite starting their day as early as 6.30 am. “Ever since the lockdown, life has been very difficult”, Prasad said. Wasan can be heard promising him help. The heart wrenching video has caught the Internet's attention and has been viewed over 1 lakh times on Youtube alone. There has been an outpour of help with celebrities as well as political leaders reaching out to extend financial help for the couple. What more, on Thursday the small eatery was sold out in the first half of the day as people lined up to taste home-cooked meals by the couple. A social media campaign led to the #BabaKaDhaba and #MalviyaNagar trend on Twitter and multiple people posted images and videos of their visits to the eatery after seeing the video. “There was no sale during the lockdown but now it feels like whole India is with us,” said Prasad on Thursday as he served people. #WATCH: "It feels like whole India is with us. Everyone is helping us", says Kanta Prasad, owner of #BabaKaDhabha. The stall in Delhi's Malviya Nagar saw heavy footfall of customers after a video of the owner couple went viral. pic.twitter.com/nNpne6Arqs — ANI (@ANI) October 8, 2020 × Cricketer R Ashwin, actors Randeep Hooda, Sonam Kapoor, Swara Bhasker, Raveena Tandon, and a host of other stars have extended support and urged their fans on social media to go visit the eatery. I am not able to message you, but is there a way I can help that man?? I would like to contribute. — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) October 7, 2020 × Hi could you please dm me details. — Sonam K Ahuja (@sonamakapoor) October 7, 2020 × #बाबाकाढाबा #dilliwalon #dil #dikhao. Whoever eats here, sends me pic, I shall put up a sweet message with your pics ! ♥️ #supportlocalbusiness #localvendors https://t.co/5DH73wz3SD — Raveena Tandon (@TandonRaveena) October 8, 2020 × दिल्ली! चलो ‘बाबा का ढाबा’ पर मटर पनीर खाते हैं! मालवीय नगर में! 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽💜💜💜 #SupportSmallBusinesses #VocalForLocal #ShowHeart https://t.co/khus7WJMB8 — Swara Bhasker (@ReallySwara) October 7, 2020 × Do visit if you are in Delhi! 🙏🙏 बाबा का ढाबा Block B, Shivalik Colony, Opposite Hanuman Mandir, Malviya Nagar, South Delhi. #SupportLocal #BabaKaDhaba https://t.co/yEfZPx3YAG — Randeep Hooda (@RandeepHooda) October 8, 2020 × Spread the word around. Wipe his tears #BabaKaDhaba https://t.co/BE9cXGEnSs — RAHUL SRIVASTAV (@upcoprahul) October 8, 2020 × The local MLA, AAP leader Somnath Bharti also has visited the stall. “Will take care of them n I am starting a drive 2 take care of similarly placed people,” he tweeted and later shared photos of his visit. .@RICHA_LAKHERA .@VasundharaTankh .@sohitmishra99 .@sakshijoshii .@RifatJawaid .@ShonakshiC .@TheDeshBhakt Visited "Baba Ka Dhaba" n hv done d needful to bring SMILE on their faces as promised. Will take care of them n I am starting a drive 2 take care of similarly placed people. pic.twitter.com/S9A94AmJxK — Adv. Somnath Bharti (@attorneybharti) October 8, 2020 ×

Crowds throng Delhi's small eatery 'Baba Ka Dhaba' as emotional video goes viral

India's longest spell of clean air on record came to an end in September when New Delhi, the world's most polluted capital city, recorded a significant deterioration in air quality, partly due to crop waste burning by farmers.

Up until this month, New Delhi and its satellite cities, which last year accounted for half of the dozen most-polluted cities worldwide, had enjoyed respite due to the strict nationwide lockdown to stem the spread of the coronavirus.

But, a pick-up in economic activity and a slightly early start to crop waste burning, a significant source of pollution during the winter months, has made the air more toxic again.

"The gains which we had seen because of the lockdown are lost in September," said Sachchida Nand Tripathi, a professor at the IIT Kanpur and a member of the National Clear Air Mission, a federal body.

In September, the concentration of poisonous PM2.5 particles in a cubic metre of air averaged at 47.64 micrograms, more than 17% higher from the same month last year, according to a Reuters analysis of government data, indicating a "poor" rating.

That is almost twice the level deemed safe by the World Health Organisation (WHO), though it is still below the safety level of 60 micrograms set by SAFAR, India's environment monitoring agency.

In Punjab state, to the north of New Delhi, there were about 70 crop fires in September, more than double the number in the same month last year, according to a study by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kanpur in northern India.

Air pollution typically worsens during the winter months from October to December.

Last year, New Delhi suffered nine consecutive days in late October, early November when the air quality was hazardous, with a PM2.5 reading of 509.2 micrograms recorded on Nov. 3 by IQ AirVisual, a Swiss-based group that gathers air-quality data globally.

Authorities intensified a campaign to reduce crop waste burning after the outrage caused by last year's sickening air quality levels, and officials say farmers are likely to reduce burning by 75-80% this year. 
&nbsp;

India's longest spell of clean air on record came to an end in September when New Delhi, the world's most polluted capital city, recorded a significant deterioration in air quality, partly due to crop waste burning by farmers.

India's longest spell of clean air on record came to an end in September when New Delhi, the world's most polluted capital city, recorded a significant deterioration in air quality, partly due to crop waste burning by farmers. Up until this month, New Delhi and its satellite cities, which last year accounted for half of the dozen most-polluted cities worldwide, had enjoyed respite due to the strict nationwide lockdown to stem the spread of the coronavirus. But, a pick-up in economic activity and a slightly early start to crop waste burning, a significant source of pollution during the winter months, has made the air more toxic again. "The gains which we had seen because of the lockdown are lost in September," said Sachchida Nand Tripathi, a professor at the IIT Kanpur and a member of the National Clear Air Mission, a federal body. In September, the concentration of poisonous PM2.5 particles in a cubic metre of air averaged at 47.64 micrograms, more than 17% higher from the same month last year, according to a Reuters analysis of government data, indicating a "poor" rating. That is almost twice the level deemed safe by the World Health Organisation (WHO), though it is still below the safety level of 60 micrograms set by SAFAR, India's environment monitoring agency. In Punjab state, to the north of New Delhi, there were about 70 crop fires in September, more than double the number in the same month last year, according to a study by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kanpur in northern India. Air pollution typically worsens during the winter months from October to December. Last year, New Delhi suffered nine consecutive days in late October, early November when the air quality was hazardous, with a PM2.5 reading of 509.2 micrograms recorded on Nov. 3 by IQ AirVisual, a Swiss-based group that gathers air-quality data globally. Authorities intensified a campaign to reduce crop waste burning after the outrage caused by last year's sickening air quality levels, and officials say farmers are likely to reduce burning by 75-80% this year.

Delhi loses cleaner lockdown air as farmers burn crop waste

A division bench of the Delhi High Court on Friday deferred to September 28 hearing on a petition filed by the Delhi government challenging a single-judge bench order imposing an interim stay on the reservation of 80 per cent ICU beds in a group of top private hospitals in the national capital exclusively for COVID-19 patients.

The division bench of Chief Justice DN Patel and Justice Prateek Jalan listed the matter for further hearing on September 28.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/admitted-to-hospital-for-covid-19-delhi-deputy-cm-manish-sisodia-also-diagnosed-with-dengue-330037">Also read:&nbsp;Admitted to hospital for COVID-19, Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia also diagnosed with dengue</a>

The Delhi government, in a petition filed through additional standing counsel Sanjoy Ghose against the interim order dated September 22 passed by a single-judge bench, said that the bench has not appreciated the categoric submissions made on behalf of the appellant regarding the surge in the number of COVID-19 patients, and the dynamic efforts being undertaken by the appellant to tackle the ever-changing nature situation regarding healthcare and medical facilities in the NCT of Delhi, on account of the COVID-19 pandemic.

A single-judge bench had on Tuesday this week stayed the recent order passed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal-led government instructing private hospitals in Delhi to reserve 80 per cent of ICU beds for COVID-19 patients, till the next date of hearing on a petition moved by the "Association of Healthcare Providers India".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-86052-new-cases-as-total-infections-near-6-million-mark-330100">Also read:&nbsp;India reports 86,052 new cases as total infections near 6 million-mark</a>

The petition filed before the single-judge through advocate Sanyam Khetarpal and Narita Yadav said that the order has been passed in an arbitrary, unfair and illegal manner without even realizing the difficulties that may be faced by the said private nursing homes and hospitals.

"Moreover, no consideration has been given to the fact that the non-COVID-19 patients may suffer fatal consequences owing to their prolonged or sudden illness and due to the non-availability of ICU/HDU beds they may not be able to endure the disease," said the petition filed by Association of Healthcare Providers India.

The plea had said that private hospitals routinely get patients with heart attacks, grievous injuries, acute pulmonary disorders, complex fractures, and even other conditions like cancer, transplant and cardiac patients which require urgent interventions and critical care.

"Reserving 80% beds in the ICU will deny urgent care to seriously ill patients, requiring vital surgical interventions and critical care. These beds, which may constitute 15 per cent to 20per cent of overall ICU bed capacity in some of the hospitals, are not usable for COVID-19 patients since very rarely does a COVID-19 patient of that age requires critical care," it had added.&nbsp;

A division bench of the Delhi High Court on Friday deferred to September 28 hearing on a petition filed by the Delhi government challenging a single-judge bench order imposing an interim stay on the reservation of 80 per cent ICU beds in a group of top private hospitals in the national capital exclusively for COVID-19 patients.

A division bench of the Delhi High Court on Friday deferred to September 28 hearing on a petition filed by the Delhi government challenging a single-judge bench order imposing an interim stay on the reservation of 80 per cent ICU beds in a group of top private hospitals in the national capital exclusively for COVID-19 patients. The division bench of Chief Justice DN Patel and Justice Prateek Jalan listed the matter for further hearing on September 28. Also read: Admitted to hospital for COVID-19, Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia also diagnosed with dengue The Delhi government, in a petition filed through additional standing counsel Sanjoy Ghose against the interim order dated September 22 passed by a single-judge bench, said that the bench has not appreciated the categoric submissions made on behalf of the appellant regarding the surge in the number of COVID-19 patients, and the dynamic efforts being undertaken by the appellant to tackle the ever-changing nature situation regarding healthcare and medical facilities in the NCT of Delhi, on account of the COVID-19 pandemic. A single-judge bench had on Tuesday this week stayed the recent order passed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal-led government instructing private hospitals in Delhi to reserve 80 per cent of ICU beds for COVID-19 patients, till the next date of hearing on a petition moved by the "Association of Healthcare Providers India". Also read: India reports 86,052 new cases as total infections near 6 million-mark The petition filed before the single-judge through advocate Sanyam Khetarpal and Narita Yadav said that the order has been passed in an arbitrary, unfair and illegal manner without even realizing the difficulties that may be faced by the said private nursing homes and hospitals. "Moreover, no consideration has been given to the fact that the non-COVID-19 patients may suffer fatal consequences owing to their prolonged or sudden illness and due to the non-availability of ICU/HDU beds they may not be able to endure the disease," said the petition filed by Association of Healthcare Providers India. The plea had said that private hospitals routinely get patients with heart attacks, grievous injuries, acute pulmonary disorders, complex fractures, and even other conditions like cancer, transplant and cardiac patients which require urgent interventions and critical care. "Reserving 80% beds in the ICU will deny urgent care to seriously ill patients, requiring vital surgical interventions and critical care. These beds, which may constitute 15 per cent to 20per cent of overall ICU bed capacity in some of the hospitals, are not usable for COVID-19 patients since very rarely does a COVID-19 patient of that age requires critical care," it had added.

HC defers Delhi govt's plea against interim stay on reservation of ICU beds in private hospitals

Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain on Wednesday said there is no shortage of oxygen in Delhi hospitals and that enough stock is available for the next six to seven days.

The minister also the COVID-19 positivity rate in the national capital has plateaued out a bit and a downward trend is expected in a week or two.

"There is no shortage of oxygen in Delhi hospitals. I took stock of the situation. There is a slight issue, but there is enough oxygen for 7 days in Delhi government-run hospitals," he said.

Delhi gets oxygen from Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. Some suppliers in those states have been told to first supply oxygen there. These issues are being sorted, Jain told reporters here.

He said Delhi reported a positivity rate of 6.47 per cent on Tuesday. The average positivity rate for the last 7 days stood at 7 per cent.

It was 8.5-9 per cent in the recent past. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the cumulative positivity rate has come down from 12 per cent to 9 per cent.

"The positivity rate has plateaued out a bit and a downward trend will there in a week or two," he said.

Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain on Wednesday said there is no shortage of oxygen in Delhi hospitals and that enough stock is available for the next six to seven days.

Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain on Wednesday said there is no shortage of oxygen in Delhi hospitals and that enough stock is available for the next six to seven days. The minister also the COVID-19 positivity rate in the national capital has plateaued out a bit and a downward trend is expected in a week or two. "There is no shortage of oxygen in Delhi hospitals. I took stock of the situation. There is a slight issue, but there is enough oxygen for 7 days in Delhi government-run hospitals," he said. Delhi gets oxygen from Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. Some suppliers in those states have been told to first supply oxygen there. These issues are being sorted, Jain told reporters here. He said Delhi reported a positivity rate of 6.47 per cent on Tuesday. The average positivity rate for the last 7 days stood at 7 per cent. It was 8.5-9 per cent in the recent past. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the cumulative positivity rate has come down from 12 per cent to 9 per cent. "The positivity rate has plateaued out a bit and a downward trend will there in a week or two," he said.

Delhi hospitals have enough oxygen for 6-7 days: Satyendar Jain

Delhi State Government on Wednesday passed an order that made doctor's prescription for coronavirus test unnecessary. As per the order, anyone can get himself or herseld tested for an infection of coronavirus.

"...it has been decided that hecneforth there will be no requirement of a prescription from a qualified medical practitioner for Covid-19 testing in NCT of Delhi..." said the official order.

However, the order added that the tests will be carried out in accordance with the strategy/advisory issued by Indian Council of Medical Research.

Though the official order was passed on Wednesday, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had tweeted on Tuesday itself announcing the decision of the government.

 
"Delhi govt has increased testing multi-fold.I have directed Health Minister this morning that Doctor’s prescription shud not be asked for testing. Anyone can get himself tested," tweeted Kejriwal.

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Delhi govt has increased testing multi-fold. 
 
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As per latest numbers released by Ministry of Health, Delhi has 22,377 active coronavirus cases. In past 24 hours 1834 new cases have been detected. 170140 patients have been cured so far. They have been 4618 deaths. 
&nbsp;

Delhi State Government on Wednesday passed an order that made doctor's prescription for coronavirus test unnecessary. As per the order, anyone can get himself or herseld tested for an infection of coronavirus.

Delhi State Government on Wednesday passed an order that made doctor's prescription for coronavirus test unnecessary. As per the order, anyone can get himself or herseld tested for an infection of coronavirus. "...it has been decided that hecneforth there will be no requirement of a prescription from a qualified medical practitioner for Covid-19 testing in NCT of Delhi..." said the official order. However, the order added that the tests will be carried out in accordance with the strategy/advisory issued by Indian Council of Medical Research. Though the official order was passed on Wednesday, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had tweeted on Tuesday itself announcing the decision of the government. "Delhi govt has increased testing multi-fold.I have directed Health Minister this morning that Doctor’s prescription shud not be asked for testing. Anyone can get himself tested," tweeted Kejriwal. Delhi govt has increased testing multi-fold. I have directed Health Minister this morning that Doctor’s prescription shud not be asked for testing. Anyone can get himself tested. — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) September 8, 2020 × As per latest numbers released by Ministry of Health, Delhi has 22,377 active coronavirus cases. In past 24 hours 1834 new cases have been detected. 170140 patients have been cured so far. They have been 4618 deaths.

Doctor's prescription not needed for Covid-19 test in Delhi from now

A faux pas in a job advertisement for the position of a dog handler posted by the Indian Institute of Technology-Delhi created quite a buzz on social media, prompting the institute to issue a clarification and cancel the recruitment.

On August 26, IIT-Delhi had sought applications for the post of a dog handler, and the notice stated that the eligibility criteria was "B.A/B.Sc/B.Com/B.Tech or any equivalent undergraduate degree". This led to a social media storm.

In a statement issued on September 6, the institute said, "In reference to a job advertisement dated 26-08-2020 for a post titled 'Dog Handler' (on purely contract basis), IIT Delhi would like to clarify that the minimum qualification as mentioned in the advertisement got inadvertently copied from another job advertisement."

The qualification intended in the advertisement was 'Bachelor of Veterinary Science', it said, adding that the recruitment process was cancelled after the mistake was brought to the notice of the higher authorities.

"A fresh process in due course will be initiated to hire a Consultant (on purely contract basis) with suitable minimum qualification required for the job profile that involves proper care of a large number of stray dogs on the campus (providing them medical aid like vaccination, medicine, IV drip etc. And food), handling of issues and challenges relating to stray dogs, liaison with campus community- students, employees, construction workers etc., local government bodies and NGO," the statement said.

A faux pas in a job advertisement for the position of a dog handler posted by the Indian Institute of Technology-Delhi created quite a buzz on social media, prompting the institute to issue a clarification and cancel the recruitment.

A faux pas in a job advertisement for the position of a dog handler posted by the Indian Institute of Technology-Delhi created quite a buzz on social media, prompting the institute to issue a clarification and cancel the recruitment. On August 26, IIT-Delhi had sought applications for the post of a dog handler, and the notice stated that the eligibility criteria was "B.A/B.Sc/B.Com/B.Tech or any equivalent undergraduate degree". This led to a social media storm. In a statement issued on September 6, the institute said, "In reference to a job advertisement dated 26-08-2020 for a post titled 'Dog Handler' (on purely contract basis), IIT Delhi would like to clarify that the minimum qualification as mentioned in the advertisement got inadvertently copied from another job advertisement." The qualification intended in the advertisement was 'Bachelor of Veterinary Science', it said, adding that the recruitment process was cancelled after the mistake was brought to the notice of the higher authorities. "A fresh process in due course will be initiated to hire a Consultant (on purely contract basis) with suitable minimum qualification required for the job profile that involves proper care of a large number of stray dogs on the campus (providing them medical aid like vaccination, medicine, IV drip etc. And food), handling of issues and challenges relating to stray dogs, liaison with campus community- students, employees, construction workers etc., local government bodies and NGO," the statement said.

IIT-Delhi issues clarification after ad for dog handler kicks up row

Adventures Overland, an expedition company, has introduced a modified luxury bus that will carry 20 passengers from Delhi to London.

This bus will cross 18 countries over 70 days. During the journey, passengers will be allowed to "hop off" and explore different locations on the way.&nbsp;

The expedition company was introduced by entrepreneurs Tushar Agarwal and Sanjay Madan. The idea of such a bus trip came from a solo drive from London to Delhi that Tushar Agarwal did in 2010.

"It is an absolutely fantastic journey," Tushar told CNN Travel.&nbsp;

These trips are expected to begin mid-2021. The cost of the trip is estimated to be $20,000. To help it stay in the budget the trip is divided into four parts, and the passengers may opt for a part of the journey.&nbsp;

Tushar Agarwal called it a “life-changing journey” and said that the around 40,000 people have already registered for Bus To London.

Adventures Overland, an expedition company, has introduced a modified luxury bus that will carry 20 passengers from Delhi to London. This bus will cross 18 countries over 70 days.

Adventures Overland, an expedition company, has introduced a modified luxury bus that will carry 20 passengers from Delhi to London. This bus will cross 18 countries over 70 days. During the journey, passengers will be allowed to "hop off" and explore different locations on the way. The expedition company was introduced by entrepreneurs Tushar Agarwal and Sanjay Madan. The idea of such a bus trip came from a solo drive from London to Delhi that Tushar Agarwal did in 2010. "It is an absolutely fantastic journey," Tushar told CNN Travel. These trips are expected to begin mid-2021. The cost of the trip is estimated to be $20,000. To help it stay in the budget the trip is divided into four parts, and the passengers may opt for a part of the journey. Tushar Agarwal called it a “life-changing journey” and said that the around 40,000 people have already registered for Bus To London.

'Life-changing journey': New bus trip will take you from Delhi to London in 70 days

Around Rs 1.62 crores were provided to the accused of North East Delhi violence before the violence started in February this year, Delhi Police sources said.

Sources said that Rs 1.42 crores were spent on several things including management of 20 protests (Anti-Citizenship Amendment Act protests) at different sites and purchase of weapons.

Suspended Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) councillor Tahir Hussain, Miran Haider, Ishrat Jahan, Shifa Ur Rehman and Khalid Saifi were among those accused who received the money which was sent from Oman, Qatar, UAE, and Saudi Arabia.Hussain spent Rs 1.29 crores out of Rs 1.32 crores he received while Saifi received over Rs 6.23 lakhs.

Ishrat Jahan received around Rs 5 lakhs, Rehman got Rs 5.55 lakhs and Rs 5.46 lakhs were given to Haider.The matter is being investigated.Hussain has confessed about his role in the North East Delhi violence and admitted that he has incited people to unleash violence, according to an Interrogation Report (IR) by Delhi Police.

According to Delhi Police, Hussain`s task was to collect as much glass bottle, petrol, acid, stones, as possible on the roof of my house.One of Hussain`s acquaintance, Khalid Saifi was given the task to gather people on the streets for protest.

"Khalid Saifi, along with his friend Ishrat Jahan, first started a dharna demonstration in Khureji on the lines of Shaheen Bagh. On February 4, in Abu Fazal Enclave, I met Khalid Saifi for planning the riots," Hussain told the police during interrogation.

"On February 4, in Abu Fazal Enclave, I met Khalid Saifi for planning the riots. It was decided to provoke people sitting on the anti-CAA strike. Khalif Saifi said that something big has to be done at the time of Donald Trump`s visit so that the government kneel," he said.

Delhi Police interrogation reveals that Hussain has admitted that he collected a lot of acid, petrol, diesel and stones on his roof. He had also took his pistol from the police station for use in the violence.

"On February 24, according to our plan, I have called several people and told me how to throw stones, petrol bombs, and acid bottles from my roof. I had shifted my family to another place. On 24 February 2020, at about 1:30 pm we started throwing stones," Hussain told police.

Around Rs 1.62 crores were provided to the accused of North East Delhi violence before the violence started in February this year, Delhi Police sources said. Sources said that Rs 1.

Around Rs 1.62 crores were provided to the accused of North East Delhi violence before the violence started in February this year, Delhi Police sources said. Sources said that Rs 1.42 crores were spent on several things including management of 20 protests (Anti-Citizenship Amendment Act protests) at different sites and purchase of weapons. Suspended Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) councillor Tahir Hussain, Miran Haider, Ishrat Jahan, Shifa Ur Rehman and Khalid Saifi were among those accused who received the money which was sent from Oman, Qatar, UAE, and Saudi Arabia.Hussain spent Rs 1.29 crores out of Rs 1.32 crores he received while Saifi received over Rs 6.23 lakhs. Ishrat Jahan received around Rs 5 lakhs, Rehman got Rs 5.55 lakhs and Rs 5.46 lakhs were given to Haider.The matter is being investigated.Hussain has confessed about his role in the North East Delhi violence and admitted that he has incited people to unleash violence, according to an Interrogation Report (IR) by Delhi Police. According to Delhi Police, Hussain`s task was to collect as much glass bottle, petrol, acid, stones, as possible on the roof of my house.One of Hussain`s acquaintance, Khalid Saifi was given the task to gather people on the streets for protest. "Khalid Saifi, along with his friend Ishrat Jahan, first started a dharna demonstration in Khureji on the lines of Shaheen Bagh. On February 4, in Abu Fazal Enclave, I met Khalid Saifi for planning the riots," Hussain told the police during interrogation. "On February 4, in Abu Fazal Enclave, I met Khalid Saifi for planning the riots. It was decided to provoke people sitting on the anti-CAA strike. Khalif Saifi said that something big has to be done at the time of Donald Trump`s visit so that the government kneel," he said. Delhi Police interrogation reveals that Hussain has admitted that he collected a lot of acid, petrol, diesel and stones on his roof. He had also took his pistol from the police station for use in the violence. "On February 24, according to our plan, I have called several people and told me how to throw stones, petrol bombs, and acid bottles from my roof. I had shifted my family to another place. On 24 February 2020, at about 1:30 pm we started throwing stones," Hussain told police.

Over Rs 1.62 crores provided to accused before Delhi violence

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday held a meeting with all members of parliament from Delhi to discuss the COVID-19 situation in the national capital.

According to the government, Kejriwal in the meeting said that the 'Delhi model' of fighting COVID-19 has been possible due to the collective efforts and support from all political parties, MPs and MLAs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-has-good-recovery-rate-and-low-mortality-aiims-director-on-covid-19-313853" hreflang="en">India has good recovery rate and low mortality: AIIMS Director on COVID-19</a>

Kejriwal in a tweet said MLAs and MPs have contributed significantly to the battle against coronavirus here.

There are three Rajya Sabha and seven Lok Sabha MPs in the national capital. The meeting was held via video conference.

"Have been meeting all MLAs and MPs from Delhi for the last few days. There has been significant contribution by these public representatives in fight against coronavirus," the chief minister tweeted in Hindi.

"Met several MLAs in the last two days. Today, spoke to all MPs. If everyone's cooperation continues in the same way, we will soon beat corona," he added.

Later, the government issued a statement, saying that in meeting, all the MPs unanimously said that they are with the Delhi government and will take all possible steps to save the people of Delhi from the pandemic.

"The Delhi model was also appreciated. It was also decided that the MPs will stand united with the Delhi government to fight the novel coronavirus," the statement stated.

Meanwhile, BJP MP from East Delhi Gautam Gambhir on Twitter said he raised issues like inflated bills without taking meter readings and waiver of electricity charges for MSMEs in the meeting.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday held a meeting with all members of parliament from Delhi to discuss the COVID-19 situation in the national capital. According to the government, Kejriwal in the meeting said that the 'Delhi model' of fighting COVID-19 has been possible due to the collective efforts and support from all political parties, MPs and MLAs.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday held a meeting with all members of parliament from Delhi to discuss the COVID-19 situation in the national capital. According to the government, Kejriwal in the meeting said that the 'Delhi model' of fighting COVID-19 has been possible due to the collective efforts and support from all political parties, MPs and MLAs. Also read: India has good recovery rate and low mortality: AIIMS Director on COVID-19 Kejriwal in a tweet said MLAs and MPs have contributed significantly to the battle against coronavirus here. There are three Rajya Sabha and seven Lok Sabha MPs in the national capital. The meeting was held via video conference. "Have been meeting all MLAs and MPs from Delhi for the last few days. There has been significant contribution by these public representatives in fight against coronavirus," the chief minister tweeted in Hindi. "Met several MLAs in the last two days. Today, spoke to all MPs. If everyone's cooperation continues in the same way, we will soon beat corona," he added. Later, the government issued a statement, saying that in meeting, all the MPs unanimously said that they are with the Delhi government and will take all possible steps to save the people of Delhi from the pandemic. "The Delhi model was also appreciated. It was also decided that the MPs will stand united with the Delhi government to fight the novel coronavirus," the statement stated. Meanwhile, BJP MP from East Delhi Gautam Gambhir on Twitter said he raised issues like inflated bills without taking meter readings and waiver of electricity charges for MSMEs in the meeting.

Delhi CM Kejriwal holds meeting with members of parliament  to discuss COVID-19 situation

A Delhi court on Friday granted bail to 82 Bangladeshi nationals who participated in the Markaz Tablighi Jamaat congregation in Nizamuddin area, which had reportedly become an epicentre of COVID-19 spread in the country.

Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Gurmohina Kaur granted bail to the 82 Bangladeshi nationals on furnishing personal bonds of Rs 10,000 each.

Advocates Ashima Mandla, Mandakini Singh and Fahim Khan appeared for Bangladeshi nationals. The plea bargaining application will be filed by tomorrow, the lawyers said.

Plea bargaining is an arrangement between the prosecutor and the defendant, in which the accused pleads guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lenient sentence or an agreement to drop other charges.

The Bangladeshi nationals had appeared before the court today through video conferencing in pursuance of summons issued against them. They have been duly identified by the concerned official of concern High Commissions as well as investigating officer.

The court had recently taken cognisance of various charge sheets filed against 956 foreign nationals who attended the Nizamuddin congregation.

According to the Delhi Police, the investigation related to the 956 foreign nationals is complete in the case and each of the foreign national has been found to have independently committed the offence for which he or she has been charge-sheeted.

Investigation Officer categorically specified that no evidence has come against the foreign nationals concerned under Section 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 308 (attempt to commit culpable homicide), 336 (act endangering life or personal safety of others) and 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and hence they have not been charge-sheeted for the abovesaid offences.Delhi Police said that the charge sheet against the Bangladeshi nationals has been filed under relevant Sections of the Foreigners Act, 1946, the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897, the Disaster Management Act, 2005, and the Indian Penal Code (IPC) which are independent of the other offences which were added during the investigation of the source FIR.&nbsp;

A Delhi court on Friday granted bail to 82 Bangladeshi nationals who participated in the Markaz Tablighi Jamaat congregation in Nizamuddin area, which had reportedly become an epicentre of COVID-19 spread in the country.

A Delhi court on Friday granted bail to 82 Bangladeshi nationals who participated in the Markaz Tablighi Jamaat congregation in Nizamuddin area, which had reportedly become an epicentre of COVID-19 spread in the country. Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Gurmohina Kaur granted bail to the 82 Bangladeshi nationals on furnishing personal bonds of Rs 10,000 each. Advocates Ashima Mandla, Mandakini Singh and Fahim Khan appeared for Bangladeshi nationals. The plea bargaining application will be filed by tomorrow, the lawyers said. Plea bargaining is an arrangement between the prosecutor and the defendant, in which the accused pleads guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lenient sentence or an agreement to drop other charges. The Bangladeshi nationals had appeared before the court today through video conferencing in pursuance of summons issued against them. They have been duly identified by the concerned official of concern High Commissions as well as investigating officer. The court had recently taken cognisance of various charge sheets filed against 956 foreign nationals who attended the Nizamuddin congregation. According to the Delhi Police, the investigation related to the 956 foreign nationals is complete in the case and each of the foreign national has been found to have independently committed the offence for which he or she has been charge-sheeted. Investigation Officer categorically specified that no evidence has come against the foreign nationals concerned under Section 304 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 308 (attempt to commit culpable homicide), 336 (act endangering life or personal safety of others) and 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and hence they have not been charge-sheeted for the abovesaid offences.Delhi Police said that the charge sheet against the Bangladeshi nationals has been filed under relevant Sections of the Foreigners Act, 1946, the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897, the Disaster Management Act, 2005, and the Indian Penal Code (IPC) which are independent of the other offences which were added during the investigation of the source FIR.

Delhi court grants bail to 82 Bangladeshi Tablighi Jamaat congregation attendees

Amid rapid surge in coronavirus cases, monuments re-open in Delhi

An annular solar eclipse, wherein the Sun appears like a ring of fire, is currently underway but cloudy skies are likely to play a spoilsport for sky gazers in the national capital.

The annular phase began at 10.19 am and will end at 2.02 pm.

The annular phase was visible on Sunday morning from some places within a narrow corridor of northern part of the country (parts of Rajasthan, Haryana and Uttarakhand). Few prominent places within this narrow annularity path are Dehradun, Kurukshetra, Chamoli, Joshimath, Sirsa, Suratgarh.

It will be seen as a partial solar eclipse from the rest part of the country.

The annular path also passes through Congo, Sudan, Ethiopia, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Pakistan, and China.

Obscuration of the Sun by the Moon at the time of greatest phase of partial eclipse will be around 94 per cent in Delhi.

N Rathnashree, Director of Nehru Planetarium, said visibility of the eclipse is being hampered due to solar eclipse.

The next annular eclipse will be seen from South America in December 2020. Another annular eclipse will occur in 2022, but that it will be hardly visible from India, Rathnashree added.

A solar eclipse occurs on a new moon day when the Moon comes in between the Earth and the Sun and when all the three objects are aligned.

An annular solar eclipse will occur when the angular diameter of the Moon falls short of that of the Sun so that it cannot cover up the latter completely. As a result, a ring of the Sun's disk remains visible around the Moon. This gives an image of a ring of fire.

Rathnashree cautioned that eclipsed Sun should not be viewed with the naked eye, even for a very short time as it can cause permanent damage of the eyes leading to blindness even when the Moon covers most portion of the Sun.

Safe technique to observe the solar eclipse is either by using proper filter like aluminised mylar, black polymer, welding glass of shade number 14 or by making projection of the Sun's image on a whiteboard by telescope.&nbsp;

An annular solar eclipse, wherein the Sun appears like a ring of fire, is currently underway but cloudy skies are likely to play a spoilsport for sky gazers in the national capital.

An annular solar eclipse, wherein the Sun appears like a ring of fire, is currently underway but cloudy skies are likely to play a spoilsport for sky gazers in the national capital. The annular phase began at 10.19 am and will end at 2.02 pm. The annular phase was visible on Sunday morning from some places within a narrow corridor of northern part of the country (parts of Rajasthan, Haryana and Uttarakhand). Few prominent places within this narrow annularity path are Dehradun, Kurukshetra, Chamoli, Joshimath, Sirsa, Suratgarh. It will be seen as a partial solar eclipse from the rest part of the country. The annular path also passes through Congo, Sudan, Ethiopia, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Pakistan, and China. Obscuration of the Sun by the Moon at the time of greatest phase of partial eclipse will be around 94 per cent in Delhi. N Rathnashree, Director of Nehru Planetarium, said visibility of the eclipse is being hampered due to solar eclipse. The next annular eclipse will be seen from South America in December 2020. Another annular eclipse will occur in 2022, but that it will be hardly visible from India, Rathnashree added. A solar eclipse occurs on a new moon day when the Moon comes in between the Earth and the Sun and when all the three objects are aligned. An annular solar eclipse will occur when the angular diameter of the Moon falls short of that of the Sun so that it cannot cover up the latter completely. As a result, a ring of the Sun's disk remains visible around the Moon. This gives an image of a ring of fire. Rathnashree cautioned that eclipsed Sun should not be viewed with the naked eye, even for a very short time as it can cause permanent damage of the eyes leading to blindness even when the Moon covers most portion of the Sun. Safe technique to observe the solar eclipse is either by using proper filter like aluminised mylar, black polymer, welding glass of shade number 14 or by making projection of the Sun's image on a whiteboard by telescope.

Annular solar eclipse underway, cloudy skies may play spoilsport for sky gazers in Delhi

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Sunday directed that bodies of suspected COVID-19 cases in Delhi be handed over to relatives immediately without waiting for lab confirmation.

"In compliance with orders of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Health Ministry directs that bodies of suspected COVID-19 cases in Delhi be handed over to relatives immediately without waiting for lab confirmation," the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-to-use-500-railway-coaches-as-hospital-facilities-to-fight-coronavirus-305801">Also read|&nbsp;Delhi to use 500 railway coaches as hospital facilities to fight coronavirus</a>

As per the Home Minister's directions, the Health Ministry has set up three teams of four doctors each from AIIMS Delhi, Directorate General of Health Services, MoHFW and Delhi government to inspect major dedicated COVID-19 facilities proposed in Delhi and make recommendations for improvement.

Delhi has recorded a total of 38,958 coronavirus cases, out of which 22,742 are active in the city. So far, 14,945 have been cured/migrated in the capital and 1,271 have died due to the lethal infection.

Earlier in the day, Shah held two round of meetings with Delhi LG Anil Baijal and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over COVID-19 situation in the national capital. Shah announced a series of measures to tackle the disease in the national capital including increasing testing three times in six days, providing 500 converted rail coaches to add 8,000 beds and steps for the availability of 60 per cent coronavirus beds in private hospitals at lower rates.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meeting-with-centre-very-productive-key-decisions-on-fighting-covid-19-taken-jointly-delhi-govt-305844">Also read|&nbsp;'Meeting with Centre very productive, key decisions on fighting COVID-19 taken jointly': Delhi govt</a>

The minister said that a comprehensive health survey of every person would be conducted in the containment zones of the national capital to check the spread of coronavirus.

"To be able to do contact mapping well in Delhi's containment zones, a comprehensive health survey of every person will be done from house to house. The report will come in one week. Aarogya Setu app will be downloaded in every person's mobile," Shah tweeted.

"Testing for the infection will be doubled in the next two days in the capital and tripled in six days," he added.The Union Minister also said that a committee would be set up for 60 per cent beds in private hospitals at a lower rate for coronavirus patients.

"For the treatment of patients in private hospitals in the capital, a committee has been formed under the leadership of Dr Paul to provide 60 per cent of the beds in these hospitals at a low rate, to fix treatment and COVID-19 testing which will submit its report by tomorrow," Shah said.

"In a bid to provide correct information and guidelines for COVID-19 to small hospitals in Delhi, the Central government has decided to constitute a committee of senior doctors for telephonic guidance in AIIMS. The helpline number will be released tomorrow," he added.

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Sunday directed that bodies of suspected COVID-19 cases in Delhi be handed over to relatives immediately without waiting for lab confirmation.

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Sunday directed that bodies of suspected COVID-19 cases in Delhi be handed over to relatives immediately without waiting for lab confirmation. "In compliance with orders of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Health Ministry directs that bodies of suspected COVID-19 cases in Delhi be handed over to relatives immediately without waiting for lab confirmation," the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said. Also read| Delhi to use 500 railway coaches as hospital facilities to fight coronavirus As per the Home Minister's directions, the Health Ministry has set up three teams of four doctors each from AIIMS Delhi, Directorate General of Health Services, MoHFW and Delhi government to inspect major dedicated COVID-19 facilities proposed in Delhi and make recommendations for improvement. Delhi has recorded a total of 38,958 coronavirus cases, out of which 22,742 are active in the city. So far, 14,945 have been cured/migrated in the capital and 1,271 have died due to the lethal infection. Earlier in the day, Shah held two round of meetings with Delhi LG Anil Baijal and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over COVID-19 situation in the national capital. Shah announced a series of measures to tackle the disease in the national capital including increasing testing three times in six days, providing 500 converted rail coaches to add 8,000 beds and steps for the availability of 60 per cent coronavirus beds in private hospitals at lower rates. Also read| 'Meeting with Centre very productive, key decisions on fighting COVID-19 taken jointly': Delhi govt The minister said that a comprehensive health survey of every person would be conducted in the containment zones of the national capital to check the spread of coronavirus. "To be able to do contact mapping well in Delhi's containment zones, a comprehensive health survey of every person will be done from house to house. The report will come in one week. Aarogya Setu app will be downloaded in every person's mobile," Shah tweeted. "Testing for the infection will be doubled in the next two days in the capital and tripled in six days," he added.The Union Minister also said that a committee would be set up for 60 per cent beds in private hospitals at a lower rate for coronavirus patients. "For the treatment of patients in private hospitals in the capital, a committee has been formed under the leadership of Dr Paul to provide 60 per cent of the beds in these hospitals at a low rate, to fix treatment and COVID-19 testing which will submit its report by tomorrow," Shah said. "In a bid to provide correct information and guidelines for COVID-19 to small hospitals in Delhi, the Central government has decided to constitute a committee of senior doctors for telephonic guidance in AIIMS. The helpline number will be released tomorrow," he added.

Delhi: Bodies of suspected COVID-19 cases to be handed over to relatives without waiting for lab confirmation: MoHFW

As the number of earthquakes in Delhi NCR is increasing every week, the experts are forecasting a major earthquake that can damage the national capital.

Following warnings by various experts and committees, the Delhi High Court&nbsp;has asked the experts to show some groundwork, rather than merely consulting and filing paperwork.

"It goes without saying that mere paperwork and consultations would not solve the imminent threat that the citizens of NCT of Delhi face due to heightened seismic activity and that it is only actual work on ground which would come to rescue of the citizens," the court said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-after-more-than-10-earthquakes-experts-fear-major-quake-303342">Also read|&nbsp;Delhi: After more than 10 earthquakes, experts fear major quake</a>

The bench headed by Justice Vipin Sanghi and Justice Rajnish Bhatnagar asked the state government to closely monitor the situation and take steps to&nbsp;sensitize other Government functionaries and the public at large about the same.

The bench also asked the state government regarding the&nbsp;detailed action plan in the terms, which has not been publicised yet.

High Court asked the government to publish the directive on urgent basis to make people aware as to what steps the citizens&nbsp;need to take to save themselves from a major earthquake.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-asteroids-head-towards-earth-one-the-size-of-stadium-303234">Also read:&nbsp;Five asteroids head towards Earth; one the size of stadium</a>

"The affidavit to be filed by the GNCTD should also state as to what steps it had taken in this regard and what further steps it proposes to take, and within how much time," the high court said in its order on Tuesday.

The court has asked the three Municipal Corporations of Delhi to file their respective affidavits on urgent basis explaining their detailed plan of implementation. Similar affidavits have been asked from Delhi government, Delhi Development Authority, New Delhi Municipal Council, and Delhi Cantonment Board.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

As the number of earthquakes in Delhi NCR is increasing every week, the experts are forecasting a major earthquake that can damage the national capital. Following warnings by various experts and committees, the Delhi High Court has asked the experts to show some groundwork, rather than merely consulting and filing paperwork.

As the number of earthquakes in Delhi NCR is increasing every week, the experts are forecasting a major earthquake that can damage the national capital. Following warnings by various experts and committees, the Delhi High Court has asked the experts to show some groundwork, rather than merely consulting and filing paperwork. "It goes without saying that mere paperwork and consultations would not solve the imminent threat that the citizens of NCT of Delhi face due to heightened seismic activity and that it is only actual work on ground which would come to rescue of the citizens," the court said. Also read| Delhi: After more than 10 earthquakes, experts fear major quake The bench headed by Justice Vipin Sanghi and Justice Rajnish Bhatnagar asked the state government to closely monitor the situation and take steps to sensitize other Government functionaries and the public at large about the same. The bench also asked the state government regarding the detailed action plan in the terms, which has not been publicised yet. High Court asked the government to publish the directive on urgent basis to make people aware as to what steps the citizens need to take to save themselves from a major earthquake. Also read: Five asteroids head towards Earth; one the size of stadium "The affidavit to be filed by the GNCTD should also state as to what steps it had taken in this regard and what further steps it proposes to take, and within how much time," the high court said in its order on Tuesday. The court has asked the three Municipal Corporations of Delhi to file their respective affidavits on urgent basis explaining their detailed plan of implementation. Similar affidavits have been asked from Delhi government, Delhi Development Authority, New Delhi Municipal Council, and Delhi Cantonment Board. (With inputs from ANI)

Paperwork and consultations will not avert earthquake: Delhi HC tells government

A five-member panel constituted by the Delhi government has suggested that the health infrastructure of the city should be used only for treating residents of the national capital, in view of the raging COVID-19 crisis, sources said on Saturday.

The suggestion comes in the backdrop of Delhi recording over 1,000 coronavirus cases daily for the past few days and the AAP government fending itself against allegations of lack of hospital beds and other facilities.

The panel, headed by Indraprastha University vice-chancellor Dr Mahesh Verma, has submitted its report to the government in which it has said that if Delhi health infrastructure is open for non-residents, all beds will be occupied within just three days, according to sources.

An official said that the government will soon take a decision on the report of the panel, constituted earlier this week.

The other members of panel are: Dr Sunil Kumar, the medical director of GTB Hospital; Dr Arun Gupta, president of Delhi Medical Council; Dr R K Gupta, former president of Delhi Medical Association; and Dr Sandeep Budhiraja, the group medical director of Max Hospital. 
The Delhi government had asked the panel to guide it on healthcare infrastructure augmentation and overall preparedness of hospitals to battle COVID-19 in the national capital.

The panel was also asked to guide the government on any other area where strengthening of infrastructure is required to better manage the pandemic in Delhi.

On Friday, Delhi recorded 1,330 fresh coronavirus cases taking the COVID-19 tally in the city beyond the 26,000-mark, as the death toll due to the disease jumped to 708.

The highest spike in fresh cases -- 1513 -- was recorded on June 3.

A five-member panel constituted by the Delhi government has suggested that the health infrastructure of the city should be used only for treating residents of the national capital, in view of the raging COVID-19 crisis, sources said on Saturday.

A five-member panel constituted by the Delhi government has suggested that the health infrastructure of the city should be used only for treating residents of the national capital, in view of the raging COVID-19 crisis, sources said on Saturday. The suggestion comes in the backdrop of Delhi recording over 1,000 coronavirus cases daily for the past few days and the AAP government fending itself against allegations of lack of hospital beds and other facilities. The panel, headed by Indraprastha University vice-chancellor Dr Mahesh Verma, has submitted its report to the government in which it has said that if Delhi health infrastructure is open for non-residents, all beds will be occupied within just three days, according to sources. An official said that the government will soon take a decision on the report of the panel, constituted earlier this week. The other members of panel are: Dr Sunil Kumar, the medical director of GTB Hospital; Dr Arun Gupta, president of Delhi Medical Council; Dr R K Gupta, former president of Delhi Medical Association; and Dr Sandeep Budhiraja, the group medical director of Max Hospital. The Delhi government had asked the panel to guide it on healthcare infrastructure augmentation and overall preparedness of hospitals to battle COVID-19 in the national capital. The panel was also asked to guide the government on any other area where strengthening of infrastructure is required to better manage the pandemic in Delhi. On Friday, Delhi recorded 1,330 fresh coronavirus cases taking the COVID-19 tally in the city beyond the 26,000-mark, as the death toll due to the disease jumped to 708. The highest spike in fresh cases -- 1513 -- was recorded on June 3.

Delhi health infra should be used for its residents only: Panel formed by AAP govt

After more than 10 earthquakes ranging around&nbsp;magnitude 4.5 on the Richter scale, experts fear a major earthquake can jolt the Delhi NCR region in June.

Professor Chandon Ghose of the Indian Institute of Technology, Jammu, has warned that after-effects of such an earthquake could be cataclysmic.&nbsp;

As per the experts, the region of Delhi NCR falls under&nbsp;seismic zone-4, and is prone to tremors.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-asteroids-head-towards-earth-one-the-size-of-stadium-303234">Also read:&nbsp;Five asteroids head towards Earth; one the size of stadium</a>

One major reason for the increased number of tremors has been proved to be the active nature of local fault system. Experts believe such fault systems can produce earthquakes on around&nbsp;6 to 6.5 Richter scale.

Majority experts have claimed that it is hard to predict the exact time, place and extent of the earthquake. However, they also believe that the predictions will turn into reality soon as there is a constant&nbsp;seismic activity going around in the Delhi-NCR region, which can give rise to a major earthquake.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/construction-of-emergency-landing-airstrip-on-nh-44-for-indian-airforce-starts-in-kashmir-303208">Also read:&nbsp;Construction of emergency landing airstrip on NH-44 for Indian Airforce starts in Kashmir</a>

One major threat in such a case is the poorly-constructed buildings. According to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), many of the buildings in the Delhi-NCR region do not adhere to the mandatory guidelines, which&nbsp;can lead to severe destruction if an earthquake of&nbsp; 6.0 Richter scale, or more, occurs in the region.

Even though this is known to the builders and the officials that the area is prone to earthquakes, builders generally ignore the guidelines laid down by the BIS. This compromises the safety of thousands of the residents of these areas.&nbsp;So, if a major earthquake, more than 6.0 Richter scale, strikes, the damage will be severe.

According to studies of the Seismic Hazard Microzonation, it has been observed that few areas in the South and Central Delhi are safer than the areas surrounding the Yamuna river. The Yamuna riverbed is more prone to the earthquakes.

An urgent modification in the BIS codes, and stricter rules are needed to make reduce the damage done by the earthquakes.

Japan is a country that is the most seismically active regions in the world as it&nbsp;sits in the Pacific Ring of Fire. However, the country has better condition of houses, and the buildings match the&nbsp;constructions codes. India, according to experts, lacks the strict protocol, which can lead to massive destruction in such cases.

After more than 10 earthquakes ranging around magnitude 4.5 on the Richter scale, experts fear a major earthquake can jolt the Delhi NCR region in June. Professor Chandon Ghose of the Indian Institute of Technology, Jammu, has warned that after-effects of such an earthquake could be cataclysmic.

After more than 10 earthquakes ranging around magnitude 4.5 on the Richter scale, experts fear a major earthquake can jolt the Delhi NCR region in June. Professor Chandon Ghose of the Indian Institute of Technology, Jammu, has warned that after-effects of such an earthquake could be cataclysmic. As per the experts, the region of Delhi NCR falls under seismic zone-4, and is prone to tremors. Also read: Five asteroids head towards Earth; one the size of stadium One major reason for the increased number of tremors has been proved to be the active nature of local fault system. Experts believe such fault systems can produce earthquakes on around 6 to 6.5 Richter scale. Majority experts have claimed that it is hard to predict the exact time, place and extent of the earthquake. However, they also believe that the predictions will turn into reality soon as there is a constant seismic activity going around in the Delhi-NCR region, which can give rise to a major earthquake. Also read: Construction of emergency landing airstrip on NH-44 for Indian Airforce starts in Kashmir One major threat in such a case is the poorly-constructed buildings. According to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), many of the buildings in the Delhi-NCR region do not adhere to the mandatory guidelines, which can lead to severe destruction if an earthquake of 6.0 Richter scale, or more, occurs in the region. Even though this is known to the builders and the officials that the area is prone to earthquakes, builders generally ignore the guidelines laid down by the BIS. This compromises the safety of thousands of the residents of these areas. So, if a major earthquake, more than 6.0 Richter scale, strikes, the damage will be severe. According to studies of the Seismic Hazard Microzonation, it has been observed that few areas in the South and Central Delhi are safer than the areas surrounding the Yamuna river. The Yamuna riverbed is more prone to the earthquakes. An urgent modification in the BIS codes, and stricter rules are needed to make reduce the damage done by the earthquakes. Japan is a country that is the most seismically active regions in the world as it sits in the Pacific Ring of Fire. However, the country has better condition of houses, and the buildings match the constructions codes. India, according to experts, lacks the strict protocol, which can lead to massive destruction in such cases.

Delhi: After more than 10 earthquakes, experts fear major quake

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday said that Delhi was witnessing a surge in Covid-19 cases but there was nothing to worry about.

Kejriwal assured that his government was fully prepared.&nbsp;

''I assure you that we are fully prepared. We cannot be in a permanent lockdown,'' he said while addressing the media.&nbsp;

''It is a matter of concern but it is nothing to be scared of. I assure you that your government is four steps ahead of Coronavirus,'' he noted.

Out of the total patients, only 2100 are in hospitals rest are undergoing treatment at their homes. 6500 beds are ready till date and 9500 beds will be ready by another week, the Delhi CM said.&nbsp;

"Most of the people are recovering, and they are recovering at home. There is no need to panic," he added.&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday said that Delhi was witnessing a surge in Covid-19 cases but there was nothing to worry about. Kejriwal assured that his government was fully prepared.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday said that Delhi was witnessing a surge in Covid-19 cases but there was nothing to worry about. Kejriwal assured that his government was fully prepared. ''I assure you that we are fully prepared. We cannot be in a permanent lockdown,'' he said while addressing the media. ''It is a matter of concern but it is nothing to be scared of. I assure you that your government is four steps ahead of Coronavirus,'' he noted. Out of the total patients, only 2100 are in hospitals rest are undergoing treatment at their homes. 6500 beds are ready till date and 9500 beds will be ready by another week, the Delhi CM said. "Most of the people are recovering, and they are recovering at home. There is no need to panic," he added.

We cannot be in a permanent lockdown: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal

The coronavirus death toll in Delhi jumped to 303, while 792 fresh cases of COVID-19 were reported on Wednesday, the highest single-day spike in the city, authorities said.

The previous highest spike in fresh cases -- 660 -- was recorded on May 22.

This is the first time in Delhi that over 700 COVID-19 cases have been reported in a day.

In a bulletin issued on Wednesday, the Delhi health department said, the death toll from coronavirus infection has risen to 303, and the total number of cases mounted to 15,257.

It, however, added that the cumulative death figures refers to fatalities where primary cause of death was found to be COVID-19, as per the report of the Death Audit Committee on the basis of case sheets received from various hospitals.

On Tuesday, the total number of cases stood at 14,465, including 288 deaths.

With 792 fresh cases, the total number of coronavirus cases in Delhi has climbed to 15,257.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

The coronavirus death toll in Delhi jumped to 303, while 792 fresh cases of COVID-19 were reported on Wednesday, the highest single-day spike in the city, authorities said.

The coronavirus death toll in Delhi jumped to 303, while 792 fresh cases of COVID-19 were reported on Wednesday, the highest single-day spike in the city, authorities said. The previous highest spike in fresh cases -- 660 -- was recorded on May 22. This is the first time in Delhi that over 700 COVID-19 cases have been reported in a day. In a bulletin issued on Wednesday, the Delhi health department said, the death toll from coronavirus infection has risen to 303, and the total number of cases mounted to 15,257. It, however, added that the cumulative death figures refers to fatalities where primary cause of death was found to be COVID-19, as per the report of the Death Audit Committee on the basis of case sheets received from various hospitals. On Tuesday, the total number of cases stood at 14,465, including 288 deaths. With 792 fresh cases, the total number of coronavirus cases in Delhi has climbed to 15,257. (With inputs from PTI)

Delhi sees highest spike of 792 COVID-19 cases as death toll mounts to 303

Delhi government is ready to deal with situation if there is spike in cases of novel coronavirus, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind kejriwal said on Monday.

The government and private hospitals in Delhi have 4,500 beds for COVID-19 patients and out of these, 2,000 are occupied, he further said and added, 3,314 COVID-19 patients are getting treatment at their house, 2,000 admitted at hospitals.

13,418 COVID-19 cases have been reported so far in the capital, out of these 6,540 have recovered.&nbsp;

COVID-19 cases have increased in Delhi due to relaxations in lockdown. But there is nothing to worry about unless the mortality rate or the number of serious cases rises rapidly, the Delhi CM said.

&nbsp;If people contract the virus &amp; recover, then there is nothing to worry about, he added.&nbsp;

''The situation is under control in Delhi though I admit that COVID-19 cases are increasing slowly. Most of the cases have mild symptoms or are asymptomatic and being treated at home,'' he noted.&nbsp;

Delhi government is ready to deal with situation if there is spike in cases of novel coronavirus, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind kejriwal said on Monday. The government and private hospitals in Delhi have 4,500 beds for COVID-19 patients and out of these, 2,000 are occupied, he further said and added, 3,314 COVID-19 patients are getting treatment at their house, 2,000 admitted at hospitals.

Delhi government is ready to deal with situation if there is spike in cases of novel coronavirus, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind kejriwal said on Monday. The government and private hospitals in Delhi have 4,500 beds for COVID-19 patients and out of these, 2,000 are occupied, he further said and added, 3,314 COVID-19 patients are getting treatment at their house, 2,000 admitted at hospitals. 13,418 COVID-19 cases have been reported so far in the capital, out of these 6,540 have recovered. COVID-19 cases have increased in Delhi due to relaxations in lockdown. But there is nothing to worry about unless the mortality rate or the number of serious cases rises rapidly, the Delhi CM said. If people contract the virus & recover, then there is nothing to worry about, he added. ''The situation is under control in Delhi though I admit that COVID-19 cases are increasing slowly. Most of the cases have mild symptoms or are asymptomatic and being treated at home,'' he noted.

Ready to deal if there is spike in cases of novel coronavirus in the capital: Delhi CM

The education institutes and universities are trying their best to make sure that the nationwide lockdown doesn't adversely affect the students.

Keeping the same in mind, University of Delhi (DU) decided to conduct online open book examinations for all students.&nbsp;

However, the decision has not gone well with a lot of the students of the university.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cambridge-becomes-first-university-to-move-all-lectures-online-till-2021-299849">Also read:&nbsp;Cambridge becomes first university to move all lectures online till 2021</a>

A lot of students are protesting against this suggestion by the DU authorities, as they feel that this will be unfair to the students who do not have proper access to internet connection and/or laptops and computers.

A survey, conducted by Lady Shri Ram College, revealed that 68 per cent students have said they would not be able to successfully take the online exams.&nbsp;

58 per cent students admitted to not not having any internet connection, and 46.4 per cent students said they have a broadband connection, which makes it very hard for them to take an online exam.

A lot of students and few teachers took to Twitter to express their concern for their fellow classmates who did not have proper means to take an exam.&nbsp;

#DUWithSolutions was used to express their concerns.

Students and teachers also complained that the online teaching was not conducted as efficiently and regularly as physical classes could have been. They fear that this will adversely affect the students as the students are not fully ready or equipped for an exam. More than 58 per cent students complained that they were unable to attend online classes properly.

More than 71 per cent students said they were not able to concentrate at their house/hostel and 75.4 per cent said the pandemic has affected their mental health.

Members of ABVP have suggested the DU to promote the students of first and second year without any exams.&nbsp;

The final decision, amid the criticism, is still pending.

The education institutes and universities are trying their best to make sure that the nationwide lockdown doesn't adversely affect the students. Keeping the same in mind, University of Delhi (DU) decided to conduct online open book examinations for all students.

The education institutes and universities are trying their best to make sure that the nationwide lockdown doesn't adversely affect the students. Keeping the same in mind, University of Delhi (DU) decided to conduct online open book examinations for all students. However, the decision has not gone well with a lot of the students of the university. Also read: Cambridge becomes first university to move all lectures online till 2021 A lot of students are protesting against this suggestion by the DU authorities, as they feel that this will be unfair to the students who do not have proper access to internet connection and/or laptops and computers. A survey, conducted by Lady Shri Ram College, revealed that 68 per cent students have said they would not be able to successfully take the online exams. 58 per cent students admitted to not not having any internet connection, and 46.4 per cent students said they have a broadband connection, which makes it very hard for them to take an online exam. A lot of students and few teachers took to Twitter to express their concern for their fellow classmates who did not have proper means to take an exam. #DUWithSolutions was used to express their concerns. Students and teachers also complained that the online teaching was not conducted as efficiently and regularly as physical classes could have been. They fear that this will adversely affect the students as the students are not fully ready or equipped for an exam. More than 58 per cent students complained that they were unable to attend online classes properly. More than 71 per cent students said they were not able to concentrate at their house/hostel and 75.4 per cent said the pandemic has affected their mental health. Members of ABVP have suggested the DU to promote the students of first and second year without any exams. The final decision, amid the criticism, is still pending.

Delhi University students protest against online exams; '#DUWithSolutions' trends on twitter

The national capital witnessed a record jump of 500 coronavirus cases&nbsp;in a day, taking the total tally to 10,554 and the death toll has reached 166, the Delhi Health Department said on Tuesday.

Out of the 10,554 cases, 5648 were active, it said.

As per the Delhi Health reports, six deaths were added in the tally taking the total COVID-19 toll in the national capital to 166, however, none of these was reported in the last 24 hours.

The Health report said that the cumulative death figures refer to the fatalities where the primary cause of death was found to be the infection, as per the report of the Death Audit Committee on the basis of the case sheets received from the various hospitals.

The Health Department said a total of 265 patients have recovered in the city in the last 24 hours.

"Total 500 new cases were reported and the positive cases in the city reached 10,554 on Tuesday. At least 4,750 patients have recovered from coronavirus so far in Delhi while 5,638 cases are active," the Health Department said.

According to the Delhi Health Bulletin, among the 166 who died, 141 had other serious diseases. Also, only 34 people out of the total deaths were those below the age of 50 years.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The national capital witnessed a record jump of 500 coronavirus cases in a day, taking the total tally to 10,554 and the death toll has reached 166, the Delhi Health Department said on Tuesday.

The national capital witnessed a record jump of 500 coronavirus cases in a day, taking the total tally to 10,554 and the death toll has reached 166, the Delhi Health Department said on Tuesday. Out of the 10,554 cases, 5648 were active, it said. As per the Delhi Health reports, six deaths were added in the tally taking the total COVID-19 toll in the national capital to 166, however, none of these was reported in the last 24 hours. The Health report said that the cumulative death figures refer to the fatalities where the primary cause of death was found to be the infection, as per the report of the Death Audit Committee on the basis of the case sheets received from the various hospitals. The Health Department said a total of 265 patients have recovered in the city in the last 24 hours. "Total 500 new cases were reported and the positive cases in the city reached 10,554 on Tuesday. At least 4,750 patients have recovered from coronavirus so far in Delhi while 5,638 cases are active," the Health Department said. According to the Delhi Health Bulletin, among the 166 who died, 141 had other serious diseases. Also, only 34 people out of the total deaths were those below the age of 50 years. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi records 500 new coronavirus cases as tally reaches 10,554

Delhi recorded 20 new deaths due to COVID-19, taking the death toll in the national capital to 106, news agency PTI reported quoting city government authorities.

The total number of coronavirus cases in the national capital on Wednesday mounted to 7,998 with 359 new cases, the report added.

In a bulletin issued on Wednesday, the Delhi health department said, the 20 deaths reported took place in April and May as per case sheets received from hospitals, and audited by the COVID-19 death committee.

However, it also carried a footnote that certain figures mentioned in it, were subject to change on receipt of additional information.

On Tuesday, the total number of cases stood at 7,639 with 86 deaths.&nbsp;

With 20 more fatalities, the death toll from COVID-19 in Delhi has risen to 106.

Of the total number of deceased patients, 58 were aged 60 and above, accounting for over 54 per cent of the fatalities here.&nbsp;

Delhi recorded 20 new deaths due to COVID-19, taking the death toll in the national capital to 106, news agency PTI reported quoting city government authorities.

Delhi recorded 20 new deaths due to COVID-19, taking the death toll in the national capital to 106, news agency PTI reported quoting city government authorities. The total number of coronavirus cases in the national capital on Wednesday mounted to 7,998 with 359 new cases, the report added. In a bulletin issued on Wednesday, the Delhi health department said, the 20 deaths reported took place in April and May as per case sheets received from hospitals, and audited by the COVID-19 death committee. However, it also carried a footnote that certain figures mentioned in it, were subject to change on receipt of additional information. On Tuesday, the total number of cases stood at 7,639 with 86 deaths. With 20 more fatalities, the death toll from COVID-19 in Delhi has risen to 106. Of the total number of deceased patients, 58 were aged 60 and above, accounting for over 54 per cent of the fatalities here.

20 new coronavirus deaths reported in Delhi; toll crosses 100

A plea seeking linking of a metro card and/or token with the commuter's address proof was declined by Delhi High Court.

The plea has been dismissed by High Court stating that&nbsp;no representation about the issue had been made to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) before moving the court.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-this-sikh-shrine-in-indias-national-capital-feeds-close-to-75000-people-every-day-297592">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19: This Sikh shrine in India's national capital feeds close to 75,000 people every day</a>

The petitioners had requested to link the metro cards with the address and identity proof. The request was made to make sure that a right to ownership can be claimed over the metro cards and tokens, in case it is stolen or lost.

They also stated that it will help the government keep a track of commuters in the pandemic situation.

The bench consisted of Justice Manmohan and Justice Sanjeev Narula. The bench has asked the petitioners to to first move the representation before the DMRC on this issue.

In case the petitioners move a representation to the DMRC, it is supposed to dispose of the plea within four weeks by a reasoned order after taking inputs from authorities concerned.

(With inputs from ANI)

A plea seeking linking of a metro card and/or token with the commuter's address proof was declined by Delhi High Court. The plea has been dismissed by High Court stating that no representation about the issue had been made to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) before moving the court.

A plea seeking linking of a metro card and/or token with the commuter's address proof was declined by Delhi High Court. The plea has been dismissed by High Court stating that no representation about the issue had been made to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) before moving the court. Also read: COVID-19: This Sikh shrine in India's national capital feeds close to 75,000 people every day The petitioners had requested to link the metro cards with the address and identity proof. The request was made to make sure that a right to ownership can be claimed over the metro cards and tokens, in case it is stolen or lost. They also stated that it will help the government keep a track of commuters in the pandemic situation. The bench consisted of Justice Manmohan and Justice Sanjeev Narula. The bench has asked the petitioners to to first move the representation before the DMRC on this issue. In case the petitioners move a representation to the DMRC, it is supposed to dispose of the plea within four weeks by a reasoned order after taking inputs from authorities concerned. (With inputs from ANI)

Delhi HC declines plea to link metro card with address proof

As the lockdown 3.0 started, several restrictions were eased. However, schools and colleges are still operating through online classes. Now, people are hoping for the lockdown to end after it was extended for the second time.&nbsp;

However, several states have decided to keep the schools shut to keep the students safe from getting infected by the virus, and to contain the spread of coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-biggest-repatriation-operation-begins-air-india-flight-to-land-in-kochi-tonight-297236">Also read:&nbsp;India's biggest repatriation operation begins; first flight to land in Kochi</a>

Assam's State Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma ordered all state-run schools and colleges to commence summer vacations for the whole month of May.

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Punjab, too, on Thursday has declared summer vacations for a month, starting from May 15.

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The Punjab Government has decided to declare summer vacation in Government Colleges and Universities of the state from May 15 to June 15.
— Government of Punjab (@PunjabGovtIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabGovtIndia/status/1258339299616911365?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Delhi's Education Ministry, too, declared summer vacations from May 11 to June 30 for all schools and colleges. The statement, issued by the education department on Wednesday, directed the schools and colleges to not call the students to the campuses for any kind of work.

Schools and colleges all over the nation have been shut since mid-March. Majority of the institutes have started conducting online classes.

The HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank has announced that no exams for&nbsp;class 10 will be conducted nationwide, except for students of&nbsp;Northeast Delhi. The datesheet for class 12's remaining exams is also expected to be announced soon.

However, Goa, being a green zone, has decided to resume the state-board examinations. Class 10's exams will resume from May 20, and class 12's will resume from May 21 under the supervision of&nbsp;Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education.

The state government has granted permission for resuming the examinations, on the condition that all precautions for social distancing are followed.

Students seeking Prime Minister's Research Fellowship can also take a sigh of relief as the required GATE score has been decreased, as announced on Thursday.

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The required GATE score has been reduced to 650 from 750 apart from minimum CGPA of 8 or equivalent, for the students from any recognized institute/university (other than IISc/ IITs/NITs/IISERs/IIEST/CF IIITs): Union Human Resource Development Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal <a href="https://t.co/c4zfx00fpP">https://t.co/c4zfx00fpP</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1258360718459535361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Union Human Resource Development Minister, Ramesh Pokhriyal, has also announced on Thursday that the JEE Advanced examination will be conducted on August 23.

As the lockdown 3.0 started, several restrictions were eased. However, schools and colleges are still operating through online classes. Now, people are hoping for the lockdown to end after it was extended for the second time.

As the lockdown 3.0 started, several restrictions were eased. However, schools and colleges are still operating through online classes. Now, people are hoping for the lockdown to end after it was extended for the second time. However, several states have decided to keep the schools shut to keep the students safe from getting infected by the virus, and to contain the spread of coronavirus. Also read: India's biggest repatriation operation begins; first flight to land in Kochi Assam's State Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma ordered all state-run schools and colleges to commence summer vacations for the whole month of May. Assam govt has decided to declare summer vacation for schools and colleges from May 1 to May 31: State Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma pic.twitter.com/rvw6YtXw8P — ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2020 × Punjab, too, on Thursday has declared summer vacations for a month, starting from May 15. The Punjab Government has decided to declare summer vacation in Government Colleges and Universities of the state from May 15 to June 15. — Government of Punjab (@PunjabGovtIndia) May 7, 2020 × Delhi's Education Ministry, too, declared summer vacations from May 11 to June 30 for all schools and colleges. The statement, issued by the education department on Wednesday, directed the schools and colleges to not call the students to the campuses for any kind of work. Schools and colleges all over the nation have been shut since mid-March. Majority of the institutes have started conducting online classes. The HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank has announced that no exams for class 10 will be conducted nationwide, except for students of Northeast Delhi. The datesheet for class 12's remaining exams is also expected to be announced soon. However, Goa, being a green zone, has decided to resume the state-board examinations. Class 10's exams will resume from May 20, and class 12's will resume from May 21 under the supervision of Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education. The state government has granted permission for resuming the examinations, on the condition that all precautions for social distancing are followed. Students seeking Prime Minister's Research Fellowship can also take a sigh of relief as the required GATE score has been decreased, as announced on Thursday. The required GATE score has been reduced to 650 from 750 apart from minimum CGPA of 8 or equivalent, for the students from any recognized institute/university (other than IISc/ IITs/NITs/IISERs/IIEST/CF IIITs): Union Human Resource Development Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal https://t.co/c4zfx00fpP — ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2020 × Union Human Resource Development Minister, Ramesh Pokhriyal, has also announced on Thursday that the JEE Advanced examination will be conducted on August 23.

JEE Advanced date announced; schools declare summer vacations

Light rains and high-velocity winds barrelling through the national capital made way for pleasant weather on Saturday, the India Meteorological Department said.

The city recorded a maximum of 37.3 degrees Celsius, normal for this time of the year, and a minimum of 22.6 degrees Celsius.

The weather station at Palam recorded a maximum of 38.4 degrees Celsius, the highest in the city.

Humidity levels oscillated between 36 and 58 per cent.

Some areas in Delhi received heavy showers.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board, the city's air quality index recorded at 4pm was 98, which falls in the satisfactory category.

The weatherman predicted a partly cloudy sky and thundery development on Sunday.

The maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to settle at 37 and 22 degrees Celsius, respectively.

(With inputs from PTI)

Light rains and high-velocity winds barrelling through the national capital made way for pleasant weather on Saturday, the India Meteorological Department said. The city recorded a maximum of 37.

Light rains and high-velocity winds barrelling through the national capital made way for pleasant weather on Saturday, the India Meteorological Department said. The city recorded a maximum of 37.3 degrees Celsius, normal for this time of the year, and a minimum of 22.6 degrees Celsius. The weather station at Palam recorded a maximum of 38.4 degrees Celsius, the highest in the city. Humidity levels oscillated between 36 and 58 per cent. Some areas in Delhi received heavy showers. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, the city's air quality index recorded at 4pm was 98, which falls in the satisfactory category. The weatherman predicted a partly cloudy sky and thundery development on Sunday. The maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to settle at 37 and 22 degrees Celsius, respectively. (With inputs from PTI)

Light rains, gusty winds make Delhi weather pleasant

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday said that wearing a face mask is mandatory in Delhi when stepping outdoors to combat the coronavirus spread.

Announcing the decision after a high-level meeting, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "Wearing of facial masks can reduce the spread of coronavirus substantially."

"Therefore, it has been decided that facial masks will be compulsory for anyone stepping out of their house. Cloth mask shall be eligible too," he tweeted.

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Wearing of facial masks can reduce the spread of corona virus substantially. Therefore, it has been decided that facial masks will be compulsory for anyone stepping out of their house. Cloth mask shall be eligible too.
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1247897474146000898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The chief minister said that he directed all government departments to stop all expenditures except salary.

A drastic cut in expenses is required considering the current revenue status, he added.

The meeting to discuss measures to contain the COVID-19 spread was attended by ministers and top officials of Delhi.

As on Tuesday, the total number of coronavirus cases in the national capital rose to 576, with 51 fresh cases and two deaths being reported in a day, according to the Delhi Health Department.&nbsp;

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday said that wearing a face mask is mandatory in Delhi when stepping outdoors to combat the coronavirus spread. Announcing the decision after a high-level meeting, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "Wearing of facial masks can reduce the spread of coronavirus substantially.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday said that wearing a face mask is mandatory in Delhi when stepping outdoors to combat the coronavirus spread. Announcing the decision after a high-level meeting, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "Wearing of facial masks can reduce the spread of coronavirus substantially." "Therefore, it has been decided that facial masks will be compulsory for anyone stepping out of their house. Cloth mask shall be eligible too," he tweeted. Wearing of facial masks can reduce the spread of corona virus substantially. Therefore, it has been decided that facial masks will be compulsory for anyone stepping out of their house. Cloth mask shall be eligible too. — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) April 8, 2020 × The chief minister said that he directed all government departments to stop all expenditures except salary. A drastic cut in expenses is required considering the current revenue status, he added. The meeting to discuss measures to contain the COVID-19 spread was attended by ministers and top officials of Delhi. As on Tuesday, the total number of coronavirus cases in the national capital rose to 576, with 51 fresh cases and two deaths being reported in a day, according to the Delhi Health Department.

Kejriwal says face masks mandatory for people stepping outdoors in Delhi

While top gym chains in India are shuttered over the coronavirus pandemic, many workout dens are defying government orders of a lockdown by staying open for their muscle-bound customers.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/65-year-old-coronavirus-positive-patient-passes-away-in-mumbai-288190" hreflang="en">65-year-old coronavirus positive patient passes away in Mumbai&nbsp;</a>

Exercise fanatics say their need to pump iron is worth the risk, and the gyms' owners keep opening up despite facing police action, meaning the dumbbells carry on being lifted and the treadmills stay turning.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-election-scheduled-for-march-26-postponed-amid-covid-19-lockdown-288197" hreflang="en">Rajya Sabha election scheduled for March 26 postponed amid Covid-19 lockdown</a>

In one cramped gym in a crowded Delhi backstreet, around 20 people are waiting for a turn on one of the 10 machines.

"There is fear because every action or government circular comes down to how good the police are," says the owner, who gives only his first name, Rajeev. "It is also a matter of our livelihood."

Rajeev says that shortly after he opened his gym in 2016, the government cancelled more than 80 percent of bank notes to counter the black economy. That badly hit businesses, as did a new national sales tax introduced in 2018.

"So we have been under the hammer and now cannot afford to shut down," he said.

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Authorities have been cracking down on the gyms, with police in Delhi arresting two owners on Sunday for illegally operating. Four criminal cases were also filed against gyms elsewhere in the capital, police said.&nbsp;

- Heat treatment - 
India, which has reported 10 deaths from around 500 virus cases, staged a one day curfew on Sunday to test its pandemic defences. Authorities then ordered drastic new restrictions on movement.

In between barking out orders to his sweat-soaked members and staff, Rajeev tells how he believes bodybuilders can fight the virus with strong immunity and that India's climate will help.

"India is a very hot country so when the temperature rises and I have learned that temperatures between 25-26 degrees centigrade can destroy this virus," says Singh, highlighting a widely held belief in the country of 1.3 billion people.

The World Health Organization has said there is no proof that heat kills the coronavirus.&nbsp;

"I have taken action, there is sanitiser. If your immunity level is very strong then you can fight this virus," Rajeev insists.

While schools, colleges, swimming pools are closed, and top sporting events like the Indian Premier League cricket are suspended, dozens of gyms are operating across Delhi.

India has a booming bodybuilding culture and for many, extra hours are needed to burn off unwanted fat, no matter the risks.

"I am 13 kilos overweight and I'm doing a 50-day challenge," one 27-year-old university researcher told AFP as he wiped off sweat after a 20 minute run on a treadmill.

"Everyday I go to my room, I ignore the fact that there is coronavirus and keep on motivating myself that I have to go to the gym," he said.

"This virus is secondary -- if I am healthy then I can kill the virus," he said, adding he would keep coming to the gym despite the threat of police action if caught.

While top gym chains in India are shuttered over the coronavirus pandemic, many workout dens are defying government orders of a lockdown by staying open for their muscle-bound customers.

While top gym chains in India are shuttered over the coronavirus pandemic, many workout dens are defying government orders of a lockdown by staying open for their muscle-bound customers. Also read: 65-year-old coronavirus positive patient passes away in Mumbai Exercise fanatics say their need to pump iron is worth the risk, and the gyms' owners keep opening up despite facing police action, meaning the dumbbells carry on being lifted and the treadmills stay turning. Also read: Rajya Sabha election scheduled for March 26 postponed amid Covid-19 lockdown In one cramped gym in a crowded Delhi backstreet, around 20 people are waiting for a turn on one of the 10 machines. "There is fear because every action or government circular comes down to how good the police are," says the owner, who gives only his first name, Rajeev. "It is also a matter of our livelihood." Rajeev says that shortly after he opened his gym in 2016, the government cancelled more than 80 percent of bank notes to counter the black economy. That badly hit businesses, as did a new national sales tax introduced in 2018. "So we have been under the hammer and now cannot afford to shut down," he said. × Authorities have been cracking down on the gyms, with police in Delhi arresting two owners on Sunday for illegally operating. Four criminal cases were also filed against gyms elsewhere in the capital, police said. - Heat treatment - India, which has reported 10 deaths from around 500 virus cases, staged a one day curfew on Sunday to test its pandemic defences. Authorities then ordered drastic new restrictions on movement. In between barking out orders to his sweat-soaked members and staff, Rajeev tells how he believes bodybuilders can fight the virus with strong immunity and that India's climate will help. "India is a very hot country so when the temperature rises and I have learned that temperatures between 25-26 degrees centigrade can destroy this virus," says Singh, highlighting a widely held belief in the country of 1.3 billion people. The World Health Organization has said there is no proof that heat kills the coronavirus. "I have taken action, there is sanitiser. If your immunity level is very strong then you can fight this virus," Rajeev insists. While schools, colleges, swimming pools are closed, and top sporting events like the Indian Premier League cricket are suspended, dozens of gyms are operating across Delhi. India has a booming bodybuilding culture and for many, extra hours are needed to burn off unwanted fat, no matter the risks. "I am 13 kilos overweight and I'm doing a 50-day challenge," one 27-year-old university researcher told AFP as he wiped off sweat after a 20 minute run on a treadmill. "Everyday I go to my room, I ignore the fact that there is coronavirus and keep on motivating myself that I have to go to the gym," he said. "This virus is secondary -- if I am healthy then I can kill the virus," he said, adding he would keep coming to the gym despite the threat of police action if caught.

Coronavirus: Delhi's rebel gym goers risk virus to pump iron

The Centre Tuesday told the Supreme Court that the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019 does not violate any fundamental right. The central government, in its 129-page affidavit in response to the pleas challenging the constitutional validity of CAA, termed the legislation legal and asserted that there was no question of it violating constitutional morality.

It also said CAA does not confer any arbitrary and unguided powers on the executive as the citizenship to the persecuted minorities of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh would be granted in a manner as specified under the law governing grant of citizenship. The affidavit has been filed by BC Joshi, Director in the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The Supreme Court on December 18 last year had decided to examine the constitutional validity of the CAA but had refused to stay its operation. The newly amended law seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Christian, Jain and Parsi communities who came to the country from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan on or before December 31, 2014.

The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), one of the petitioners out of over 100 pleas which have challenged the CAA, has said in its plea that it violates the fundamental Right to Equality and intends to grant citizenship to a section of illegal immigrants by making an exclusion on the basis of religion.

A bench, comprising Chief Justice S A Bobde and Justices B R Gavai and Surya Kant, had earlier issued notice to the Centre and sought its response on the batch of pleas, including those filed by the IUML and Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, challenging the CAA.

The bench had also agreed to the submission of lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay that common people should be made aware about the aim, objects and the contents of the CAA and had asked Attorney General K K Venugopal, representing the Centre, to consider using audio-visual medium to make citizens aware of the legislation.

Venugopal had agreed to the suggestion and said the needful would be done by the government.

Parliament had cleared the Act, which grants citizenship rights to religious minorities such as Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, Parsis, Jains and Buddhists, who have come to India on or before December 31, 2014. President Ram Nath Kovind gave assent to the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 on December 12 last year, turning it into an Act.

The plea by IUML, filed through advocate Pallavi Pratap, had sought an interim stay on the operation of CAB and the Foreigner Amendment (Order), 2015 and Passport (Entry Into Rules), Amendment Rules, 2015. The petition has alleged that the government’s CAB was against the basic structure of the Constitution and intended to explicitly discriminate against Muslims as the Act extended benefits only to Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians.

The plea filed by Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, has said that the Act is a “brazen attack” on core fundamental rights envisaged under the Constitution and treats “equals as unequal”. In his petition, Ramesh has said that substantial questions of law, including whether religion can be a factor to either acquire or deny citizenship in India, arises for consideration of the court as it is a “patently unconstitutional” amendment to the Citizenship Act, 1955.

“The impugned Act creates two classifications, viz, classification on basis of religion and the classification on the basis of geography and both the classifications are completely unreasonable and share no rational nexus to the object of the impugned Act i.e., to provide shelter, safety and citizenship to communities who in their native country are facing persecution on grounds of religion,” the plea has said.

Several petitions have been filed challenging the constitutional validity of the CAA including by RJD leader Manoj Jha, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi. Other petitioners include Muslim body Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, All Assam Students Union (AASU), Peace Party, CPI, NGOs ‘Rihai Manch’ and Citizens Against Hate, advocate M L Sharma, and law students have also approached the apex court challenging the Act.

The Centre Tuesday told the Supreme Court that the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019 does not violate any fundamental right. The central government, in its 129-page affidavit in response to the pleas challenging the constitutional validity of CAA, termed the legislation legal and asserted that there was no question of it violating constitutional morality.

The Centre Tuesday told the Supreme Court that the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019 does not violate any fundamental right. The central government, in its 129-page affidavit in response to the pleas challenging the constitutional validity of CAA, termed the legislation legal and asserted that there was no question of it violating constitutional morality. It also said CAA does not confer any arbitrary and unguided powers on the executive as the citizenship to the persecuted minorities of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh would be granted in a manner as specified under the law governing grant of citizenship. The affidavit has been filed by BC Joshi, Director in the Ministry of Home Affairs. The Supreme Court on December 18 last year had decided to examine the constitutional validity of the CAA but had refused to stay its operation. The newly amended law seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Christian, Jain and Parsi communities who came to the country from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan on or before December 31, 2014. The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), one of the petitioners out of over 100 pleas which have challenged the CAA, has said in its plea that it violates the fundamental Right to Equality and intends to grant citizenship to a section of illegal immigrants by making an exclusion on the basis of religion. A bench, comprising Chief Justice S A Bobde and Justices B R Gavai and Surya Kant, had earlier issued notice to the Centre and sought its response on the batch of pleas, including those filed by the IUML and Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, challenging the CAA. The bench had also agreed to the submission of lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay that common people should be made aware about the aim, objects and the contents of the CAA and had asked Attorney General K K Venugopal, representing the Centre, to consider using audio-visual medium to make citizens aware of the legislation. Venugopal had agreed to the suggestion and said the needful would be done by the government. Parliament had cleared the Act, which grants citizenship rights to religious minorities such as Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, Parsis, Jains and Buddhists, who have come to India on or before December 31, 2014. President Ram Nath Kovind gave assent to the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 on December 12 last year, turning it into an Act. The plea by IUML, filed through advocate Pallavi Pratap, had sought an interim stay on the operation of CAB and the Foreigner Amendment (Order), 2015 and Passport (Entry Into Rules), Amendment Rules, 2015. The petition has alleged that the government’s CAB was against the basic structure of the Constitution and intended to explicitly discriminate against Muslims as the Act extended benefits only to Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians. The plea filed by Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, has said that the Act is a “brazen attack” on core fundamental rights envisaged under the Constitution and treats “equals as unequal”. In his petition, Ramesh has said that substantial questions of law, including whether religion can be a factor to either acquire or deny citizenship in India, arises for consideration of the court as it is a “patently unconstitutional” amendment to the Citizenship Act, 1955. “The impugned Act creates two classifications, viz, classification on basis of religion and the classification on the basis of geography and both the classifications are completely unreasonable and share no rational nexus to the object of the impugned Act i.e., to provide shelter, safety and citizenship to communities who in their native country are facing persecution on grounds of religion,” the plea has said. Several petitions have been filed challenging the constitutional validity of the CAA including by RJD leader Manoj Jha, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi. Other petitioners include Muslim body Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, All Assam Students Union (AASU), Peace Party, CPI, NGOs ‘Rihai Manch’ and Citizens Against Hate, advocate M L Sharma, and law students have also approached the apex court challenging the Act.

CAA does not violate fundamental rights, Centre tells Supreme Court

The Delhi Police has arrested five more persons in connection with IB staffer Ankit Sharma's murder case during the communal violence in northeast Delhi last month, officials said.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/very-unfortunate-delhi-high-court-expresses-concern-over-ib-officer-ankit-sharmas-death-in-violence-282886">'Very unfortunate': Delhi High Court expresses concern over IB officer Ankit Sharma's death in violence</a>

The accused have been identified as Feroz, Javed, Gulfam and Shoaib from Chand Bagh area and Anas from Mustafabad, they said.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/injury-by-heavy-cutting-weapon-led-to-death-of-ib-staffer-ankit-sharma-says-postmortem-report-286312">Injury by heavy cutting weapon led to death of IB staffer Ankit Sharma, says postmortem report</a>

Earlier, a man identified as Salman was arrested in connection with the murder case.

The Delhi Police has arrested five more persons in connection with IB staffer Ankit Sharma's murder case during the communal violence in northeast Delhi last month, officials said.

The Delhi Police has arrested five more persons in connection with IB staffer Ankit Sharma's murder case during the communal violence in northeast Delhi last month, officials said. Also Read: 'Very unfortunate': Delhi High Court expresses concern over IB officer Ankit Sharma's death in violence The accused have been identified as Feroz, Javed, Gulfam and Shoaib from Chand Bagh area and Anas from Mustafabad, they said. Also Read: Injury by heavy cutting weapon led to death of IB staffer Ankit Sharma, says postmortem report Earlier, a man identified as Salman was arrested in connection with the murder case.

Five more arrested in IB staffer Ankit Sharma murder case

Vinay Sharma, one of the death-row convicts in the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case, has approached Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal through his lawyer AP Singh, seeking to commute the death sentence to life imprisonment.

Advocate Singh has filed a petition under Sections 432 and 433 of CrPC seeking to suspend death sentence.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-court-reserves-order-on-nirbhaya-convicts-plea-seeking-stay-on-execution-283791">Delhi court reserves order on Nirbhaya convict's plea seeking stay on execution</a>

Vinay Sharma through his advocate prayed that the convict does not deserve the extreme punishment of death, which is reserved for the `'rarest of rare' cases where the alternative option of life imprisonment is unquestionably foreclosed.

Considering the positive steps towards reformation, his young age, poor socio-economic circumstances, the petitioner has prayed to commute his death sentence to life imprisonment.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/women-in-pakistan-protest-against-violence-rape-honour-killings-285109">Women in Pakistan protest against violence, rape, honour killings</a>

The case pertains to the brutal gang-rape and killing of a 23-year-old paramedical student in a moving bus on the night of December 16, 2012, by six people including a juvenile in the national capital.

The woman had died at a Singapore hospital a few days later.

Vinay Sharma, one of the death-row convicts in the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case, has approached Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal through his lawyer AP Singh, seeking to commute the death sentence to life imprisonment.

Vinay Sharma, one of the death-row convicts in the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case, has approached Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal through his lawyer AP Singh, seeking to commute the death sentence to life imprisonment. Advocate Singh has filed a petition under Sections 432 and 433 of CrPC seeking to suspend death sentence. Also read: Delhi court reserves order on Nirbhaya convict's plea seeking stay on execution Vinay Sharma through his advocate prayed that the convict does not deserve the extreme punishment of death, which is reserved for the `'rarest of rare' cases where the alternative option of life imprisonment is unquestionably foreclosed. Considering the positive steps towards reformation, his young age, poor socio-economic circumstances, the petitioner has prayed to commute his death sentence to life imprisonment. Also see: Women in Pakistan protest against violence, rape, honour killings The case pertains to the brutal gang-rape and killing of a 23-year-old paramedical student in a moving bus on the night of December 16, 2012, by six people including a juvenile in the national capital. The woman had died at a Singapore hospital a few days later.

Nirbhaya convict approaches L-G, seeks to commute death sentence to life imprisonment

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