The emergency plan to combat air pollution came into force Monday in the Delhi-NCR where air quality remained poor, even as the Centre claimed that bad air quality days in the city have come down considerably this year.

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which has come into effect for the second year, ensures stringent actions are taken based on the air quality.&nbsp;

Under the plan, measures like mechanised sweeping of roads, ban on garbage burning, pollution control measures at brick kilns and deployment of police to ensure smooth passage of traffic at vulnerable areas are in force in Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) as the air quality lies in the poor category.

Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan, who launched an air quality early warning system for Delhi, said the Badarpur Thermal Power Plant will be closed from October 15.

He also said the number of mechanised road sweeping machines in the national capital will increase from 52 to 64 by November-end.

With farmers already burning stubble, the Environment Ministry said the government has released Rs 591.65 crore to Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi for the promotion of agricultural mechanisation to manage crop residue.

It said the number of active fire detections was less in 2018 when compared to 2017 and 2016.

The air quality in Delhi remained poor with a drop in wind speed, even as authorities predicted further fall in the air quality index of the national capital in the coming days.

The overall air quality index (AQI) recorded at 4 pm Monday was 218 which falls in the poor category, according to Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR). On Saturday, the AQI of the national capital stood at 201.

According to the CPCB website, Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 318, DTU registered 288, ITO recorded 253 and Jahangirpuri recorded an AQI of 311.&nbsp;

An AQI between 0-50 is considered 'good', 51-100 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor', and 401-500 'severe'.

Delhi's neighbouring regions of Faridabad and Gurgaon both recorded poor air quality.

If the air quality deteriorates further to very poor category then additional measures under GRAP like enhancing parking fees 3-4 times and increasing frequency of metro and buses would be implemented, an official with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said.

It said if the air quality falls in the severe category, measures like increasing frequency of sprinkling of water on roads and identifying road stretch with high dust generation would be implemented.

If the air quality falls to severe plus emergency category, then measures like stopping entry of trucks into Delhi (except essential commodities), stopping construction activities and appointment of a task force to take the decision on any additional steps, including shutting of schools, are implemented.

Union minister Vardhan said the use of water sprinklers and the opening of the Western Peripheral Expressway will bring about a further reduction in pollution.

He said along with the initiatives taken by the government, the participation of the society is imperative.

"With an outlay of Rs 1,151.80 crore under the new Central Sector Scheme, the Centre has already released Rs 591.65 crore to Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi for the promotion of agricultural mechanization for in-situ management of crop residue," an official statement quoting Vardhan said.

The minister said 41 teams of the CPCB have been deployed in Delhi and NCR cities of Ghaziabad, NOIDA, Gurgaon and Faridabad to monitor and supervise dust mitigation and other air pollution abatement measures to ensure effective compliance while terming them as "eyes and ears" of his ministry.

He also said the use of water sprinklers and the opening of the expressway will bring about a further reduction in pollution.

Union Environment secretary C K Mishra said the number of "Good, Satisfactory and Moderate" days was 157 in 2018 (Up to October 13) compared to 150 in 2017 and 107 in 2016 during the corresponding period.

He added that similarly, the number of "Poor, Very Poor and Severe days" have come down from 167 in 2016 to 136 in 2017 to 129 in 2018 during the corresponding period.

Comparing the PM10 and PM2.5 levels, Mishra underlined that both PM 10 and PM 2.5 have shown a significant reduction in the winter months (September-October) this year compared to last year.

"There is a reduction of 46 per cent in PM10 levels in September 2018 compared to last year and a 15 per cent reduction in October.&nbsp;

"There is a reduction of 28 per cent in the PM2.5 levels in September 2018 compared to last year and a reduction of 22 per cent in October," Mishra said.

He said the number of active fire detections in 2018 is less in comparison to 207 and 2016 till October 14, 2018.&nbsp;

"The numbers are 75 per cent lower than last year in Punjab and 40 per cent lower in case of Haryana," he said.&nbsp;

The emergency plan to combat air pollution came into force Monday in the Delhi-NCR where air quality remained poor, even as the Centre claimed that bad air quality days in the city have come down considerably this year.

The emergency plan to combat air pollution came into force Monday in the Delhi-NCR where air quality remained poor, even as the Centre claimed that bad air quality days in the city have come down considerably this year. The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which has come into effect for the second year, ensures stringent actions are taken based on the air quality. Under the plan, measures like mechanised sweeping of roads, ban on garbage burning, pollution control measures at brick kilns and deployment of police to ensure smooth passage of traffic at vulnerable areas are in force in Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) as the air quality lies in the poor category. Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan, who launched an air quality early warning system for Delhi, said the Badarpur Thermal Power Plant will be closed from October 15. He also said the number of mechanised road sweeping machines in the national capital will increase from 52 to 64 by November-end. With farmers already burning stubble, the Environment Ministry said the government has released Rs 591.65 crore to Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi for the promotion of agricultural mechanisation to manage crop residue. It said the number of active fire detections was less in 2018 when compared to 2017 and 2016. The air quality in Delhi remained poor with a drop in wind speed, even as authorities predicted further fall in the air quality index of the national capital in the coming days. The overall air quality index (AQI) recorded at 4 pm Monday was 218 which falls in the poor category, according to Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR). On Saturday, the AQI of the national capital stood at 201. According to the CPCB website, Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 318, DTU registered 288, ITO recorded 253 and Jahangirpuri recorded an AQI of 311. An AQI between 0-50 is considered 'good', 51-100 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor', and 401-500 'severe'. Delhi's neighbouring regions of Faridabad and Gurgaon both recorded poor air quality. If the air quality deteriorates further to very poor category then additional measures under GRAP like enhancing parking fees 3-4 times and increasing frequency of metro and buses would be implemented, an official with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said. It said if the air quality falls in the severe category, measures like increasing frequency of sprinkling of water on roads and identifying road stretch with high dust generation would be implemented. If the air quality falls to severe plus emergency category, then measures like stopping entry of trucks into Delhi (except essential commodities), stopping construction activities and appointment of a task force to take the decision on any additional steps, including shutting of schools, are implemented. Union minister Vardhan said the use of water sprinklers and the opening of the Western Peripheral Expressway will bring about a further reduction in pollution. He said along with the initiatives taken by the government, the participation of the society is imperative. "With an outlay of Rs 1,151.80 crore under the new Central Sector Scheme, the Centre has already released Rs 591.65 crore to Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi for the promotion of agricultural mechanization for in-situ management of crop residue," an official statement quoting Vardhan said. The minister said 41 teams of the CPCB have been deployed in Delhi and NCR cities of Ghaziabad, NOIDA, Gurgaon and Faridabad to monitor and supervise dust mitigation and other air pollution abatement measures to ensure effective compliance while terming them as "eyes and ears" of his ministry. He also said the use of water sprinklers and the opening of the expressway will bring about a further reduction in pollution. Union Environment secretary C K Mishra said the number of "Good, Satisfactory and Moderate" days was 157 in 2018 (Up to October 13) compared to 150 in 2017 and 107 in 2016 during the corresponding period. He added that similarly, the number of "Poor, Very Poor and Severe days" have come down from 167 in 2016 to 136 in 2017 to 129 in 2018 during the corresponding period. Comparing the PM10 and PM2.5 levels, Mishra underlined that both PM 10 and PM 2.5 have shown a significant reduction in the winter months (September-October) this year compared to last year. "There is a reduction of 46 per cent in PM10 levels in September 2018 compared to last year and a 15 per cent reduction in October. "There is a reduction of 28 per cent in the PM2.5 levels in September 2018 compared to last year and a reduction of 22 per cent in October," Mishra said. He said the number of active fire detections in 2018 is less in comparison to 207 and 2016 till October 14, 2018. "The numbers are 75 per cent lower than last year in Punjab and 40 per cent lower in case of Haryana," he said.

Pollution-control action plan comes into force in Delhi-NCR, air quality remains poor

Fuel prices in the national capital rose again with petrol amounting to Rs 82.83 per litre, up by Rs 0.11, and diesel selling at Rs 75.69 per litre, increased by Rs 0.23, respectively in the national capital.&nbsp;

In Mumbai, petrol and diesel prices today were recorded at Rs 88.29 per litre, up by Rs 0.11, and Rs 79.35 per litre, increased by Rs 0.24, respectively.&nbsp;

Diesel prices continued to soar across the country on Monday. While Delhi and Kolkata saw a hike of 8 paise, a litre of diesel was increased by 9 paise in Mumbai and Chennai.

In Mumbai, diesel touched Rs 79. 11 per litre mark, while the same was retailed at Rs 79.80 per litre in Chennai.

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Petrol and diesel prices in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> are Rs 82.83 per litre (increase by Rs 0.11) and Rs 75.69 per litre (increase by Rs 0.23), respectively. Petrol and diesel prices in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a> are Rs 88.29 per litre (increase by Rs 0.11) and Rs 79.35 per litre (increase by Rs 0.24), respectively. <a href="https://t.co/UVAtV9wqRI">pic.twitter.com/UVAtV9wqRI</a>
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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/fuel-price-petrol-remains-stagnant-diesel-increased-by-9-paise-in-mumbai-171492">Petrol prices on Monday remained unchanged</a> at 82.74 per litre in Delhi, while in Mumbai it was priced at 88.18 per litre.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday held a meeting with CEOs and experts from the Oil and Gas sector from both India and abroad.

PM Modi in the meeting highlighted the economic challenges including serious resource crunch that the consuming countries face due to rising crude oil prices.

The prime minister also noted the significant positioning of India in the oil and gas market and said the oil market was producer driven and quantity and prices were determined by oil-producing countries.

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Delhi: Petrol and diesel prices in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> are Rs 82.83 per litre (increase by Rs 0.11) and Rs 75.69 per litre (increase by Rs 0.23), respectively. Locals says, "We have no option but to bear the high fuel prices. Appeal to the Delhi government to decrease tax on fuel prices." <a href="https://t.co/QdnCsY5hkl">pic.twitter.com/QdnCsY5hkl</a>
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He also asked the oil producers like Saudi Arabia to initiate steps to bring down rates to reasonable levels.

The meeting which was held in Delhi to attract private investment and raise domestic and gas oil production was attended by Union Ministers Arun Jaitley and Dharmendra Pradhan, Vice-Chairman NITI Aayog Dr. Rajiv Kumar, Mukesh Ambani among others.

Fuel prices in the national capital rose again with petrol amounting to Rs 82.83 per litre, up by Rs 0.11, and diesel selling at Rs 75.69 per litre, increased by Rs 0.

Fuel prices in the national capital rose again with petrol amounting to Rs 82.83 per litre, up by Rs 0.11, and diesel selling at Rs 75.69 per litre, increased by Rs 0.23, respectively in the national capital. In Mumbai, petrol and diesel prices today were recorded at Rs 88.29 per litre, up by Rs 0.11, and Rs 79.35 per litre, increased by Rs 0.24, respectively. Diesel prices continued to soar across the country on Monday. While Delhi and Kolkata saw a hike of 8 paise, a litre of diesel was increased by 9 paise in Mumbai and Chennai. In Mumbai, diesel touched Rs 79. 11 per litre mark, while the same was retailed at Rs 79.80 per litre in Chennai. Petrol and diesel prices in #Delhi are Rs 82.83 per litre (increase by Rs 0.11) and Rs 75.69 per litre (increase by Rs 0.23), respectively. Petrol and diesel prices in #Mumbai are Rs 88.29 per litre (increase by Rs 0.11) and Rs 79.35 per litre (increase by Rs 0.24), respectively. pic.twitter.com/UVAtV9wqRI — ANI (@ANI) October 16, 2018 × Petrol prices on Monday remained unchanged at 82.74 per litre in Delhi, while in Mumbai it was priced at 88.18 per litre. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday held a meeting with CEOs and experts from the Oil and Gas sector from both India and abroad. PM Modi in the meeting highlighted the economic challenges including serious resource crunch that the consuming countries face due to rising crude oil prices. The prime minister also noted the significant positioning of India in the oil and gas market and said the oil market was producer driven and quantity and prices were determined by oil-producing countries. Delhi: Petrol and diesel prices in #Delhi are Rs 82.83 per litre (increase by Rs 0.11) and Rs 75.69 per litre (increase by Rs 0.23), respectively. Locals says, "We have no option but to bear the high fuel prices. Appeal to the Delhi government to decrease tax on fuel prices." pic.twitter.com/QdnCsY5hkl — ANI (@ANI) October 16, 2018 × He also asked the oil producers like Saudi Arabia to initiate steps to bring down rates to reasonable levels. The meeting which was held in Delhi to attract private investment and raise domestic and gas oil production was attended by Union Ministers Arun Jaitley and Dharmendra Pradhan, Vice-Chairman NITI Aayog Dr. Rajiv Kumar, Mukesh Ambani among others.

Fuel prices soar again, petrol sells at Rs 82.83 per litre in Delhi

Delhi's air quality nosedived towards very poor category on Tuesday even as authorities put several key measures in place to combat air pollution.

The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi was recorded at 293, just eight points below the "very poor" category, according to the Centre-run System of Air Quality Forecasting And Research.

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 that between 401 and 500 is categorised as "severe".

A senior Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) official said several factors like vehicular pollution, construction activities and meteorological factors like wind speed were responsible for continuing pollution in the city despite measures being taken up.

Several measures are in force in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) like mechanised sweeping of roads, ban on garbage burning, pollution control measures at brick kilns and deployment of police to ensure smooth passage of traffic at vulnerable areas.

The use of gensets have also been banned in the city but they are being allowed to operate in parts of the NCR due to power issues.

"The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has been rolled out in the city but its ground level implementation is still going on," the official said.

The GRAP, notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in 2012, prescribes a set of measures to curb air pollution based on the Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) daily Air Quality Index (AQI).

The emergency plan gets implemented if "very poor" or "severe" air pollution levels are recorded for 48 hours but given the extent of winter pollution witnessed by the national capital, the plan has been implemented as the air quality slipped to the "poor" category, the official said.

In addition, the CPCB has also deployed 41 teams to monitor the implementation of measures taken to combat air pollution.

On Tuesday, Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 381, Dwarka Sector 8 registered AQI of 373, ITO recorded 296 and Jahangirpuri recorded an AQI of 321, according to CPCB data.

The PM10 level (presence of particles with diameter less than 10 micrometres) in Delhi stood at 274 and the PM2.5 level was recorded at 119. Both PM10 and PM2.5 are in poor category, according to the data.

Delhi's air quality nosedived towards very poor category on Tuesday even as authorities put several key measures in place to combat air pollution. The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi was recorded at 293, just eight points below the "very poor" category, according to the Centre-run System of Air Quality Forecasting And Research.

Delhi's air quality nosedived towards very poor category on Tuesday even as authorities put several key measures in place to combat air pollution. The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi was recorded at 293, just eight points below the "very poor" category, according to the Centre-run System of Air Quality Forecasting And Research. 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 that between 401 and 500 is categorised as "severe". A senior Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) official said several factors like vehicular pollution, construction activities and meteorological factors like wind speed were responsible for continuing pollution in the city despite measures being taken up. Several measures are in force in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) like mechanised sweeping of roads, ban on garbage burning, pollution control measures at brick kilns and deployment of police to ensure smooth passage of traffic at vulnerable areas. The use of gensets have also been banned in the city but they are being allowed to operate in parts of the NCR due to power issues. "The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has been rolled out in the city but its ground level implementation is still going on," the official said. The GRAP, notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in 2012, prescribes a set of measures to curb air pollution based on the Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) daily Air Quality Index (AQI). The emergency plan gets implemented if "very poor" or "severe" air pollution levels are recorded for 48 hours but given the extent of winter pollution witnessed by the national capital, the plan has been implemented as the air quality slipped to the "poor" category, the official said. In addition, the CPCB has also deployed 41 teams to monitor the implementation of measures taken to combat air pollution. On Tuesday, Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 381, Dwarka Sector 8 registered AQI of 373, ITO recorded 296 and Jahangirpuri recorded an AQI of 321, according to CPCB data. The PM10 level (presence of particles with diameter less than 10 micrometres) in Delhi stood at 274 and the PM2.5 level was recorded at 119. Both PM10 and PM2.5 are in poor category, according to the data.

Delhi's air quality nosedives towards 'very poor' category

The Delhi Police on Tuesday registered a complaint against a former Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) MP's son after a video of him brandishing a pistol at a five-star hotel went viral on social media.&nbsp;

Ashish Pandey, son of former BSP MP Rakesh Pandey, was seen with a gun in his hands at Delhi's Hyatt Regency Hotel as he argued with a woman and threatened her, reports said.

The incident reportedly took place on Sunday, October 14, after a party.

The Delhi police have registered the case under the Arms Act and say Pandey will be arrested soon.

Union Minister of State for Home Affairs of India, Kiren Rijiju took to Twitter and said "Delhi Police has initiated action on this incident which is also being shown in the media. FIR has been registered under Arms Act and IPC. Strong and appropriate action will be taken. Also verifying the identity of others."

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Delhi Police has initiated action on this incident which is also being shown in the media. FIR has been registered under Arms Act and IPC. Strong and appropriate action will be taken. Also verifying the identity of others. <a href="https://t.co/hoav5AP8M7">pic.twitter.com/hoav5AP8M7</a>
— Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) <a href="https://twitter.com/KirenRijiju/status/1052107224259092480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Hyatt Regency Hotel has issued a statement saying that they have been working with local authorities and are taking the incident very seriously.&nbsp;

"We assure our support and will continue to fully cooperate with the authorities in reference to any further investigation in this matter," the statement said.&nbsp;

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The safety &amp; security of our guests is our primary concern. We take the incident seriously &amp; have been working with the local police authorities on the same: Hyatt Regency Delhi on Ashish Pandey, son of former BSP MP Rakesh Pandey, seen brandishing a gun outside the hotel <a href="https://t.co/HxtVz35UIg">pic.twitter.com/HxtVz35UIg</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1052128902729146368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Ashish Pandey is the brother of Ritesh Pandey, the BSP MLA from Jalalpur in Uttar Pradesh's Ambedkar Nagar.

The Delhi Police on Tuesday registered a complaint against a former Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) MP's son after a video of him brandishing a pistol at a five-star hotel went viral on social media.

The Delhi Police on Tuesday registered a complaint against a former Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) MP's son after a video of him brandishing a pistol at a five-star hotel went viral on social media. Ashish Pandey, son of former BSP MP Rakesh Pandey, was seen with a gun in his hands at Delhi's Hyatt Regency Hotel as he argued with a woman and threatened her, reports said. The incident reportedly took place on Sunday, October 14, after a party. The Delhi police have registered the case under the Arms Act and say Pandey will be arrested soon. Union Minister of State for Home Affairs of India, Kiren Rijiju took to Twitter and said "Delhi Police has initiated action on this incident which is also being shown in the media. FIR has been registered under Arms Act and IPC. Strong and appropriate action will be taken. Also verifying the identity of others." Delhi Police has initiated action on this incident which is also being shown in the media. FIR has been registered under Arms Act and IPC. Strong and appropriate action will be taken. Also verifying the identity of others. pic.twitter.com/hoav5AP8M7 — Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) October 16, 2018 × Hyatt Regency Hotel has issued a statement saying that they have been working with local authorities and are taking the incident very seriously. "We assure our support and will continue to fully cooperate with the authorities in reference to any further investigation in this matter," the statement said. The safety & security of our guests is our primary concern. We take the incident seriously & have been working with the local police authorities on the same: Hyatt Regency Delhi on Ashish Pandey, son of former BSP MP Rakesh Pandey, seen brandishing a gun outside the hotel pic.twitter.com/HxtVz35UIg — ANI (@ANI) October 16, 2018 × Ashish Pandey is the brother of Ritesh Pandey, the BSP MLA from Jalalpur in Uttar Pradesh's Ambedkar Nagar.

Delhi: Ex-BSP MP's son booked after brandishing gun outside 5-star hotel

Your Story: Air quality index in Delhi recorded on Sat stood at 300

Delhi's air quality deteriorates with drop in wind speed

Dengue cases have mounted in the city, with at least 830 people being diagnosed with the vector-borne disease this season, over 42 per cent of which were reported this month, according to a municipal report released Monday.

The report says nearly 350 of the cases came to light in the first two weeks of this month alone.

Also, 385 cases of malaria and 97 of chikungunya have been reported this season till October 13, the report said.

Of the 830 dengue cases this year, 374 were recorded in September, 58 in August, 19 in July, eight in June, 10 in May, two in April, one in March, three in February and six cases in January.

Two cases of malaria were reported in February, one each in April and March, 17 in May, 25 in June, 42 in July, 82 in August, 138 in September and 77 till October 6, according to the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC), which tabulates data on vector-borne diseases for the city.

A senior doctor at a government-run facility advised people to take all precautions like wearing full-sleeves and not allowing the breeding of mosquito larvae inside their homes.

"Water coolers should be dried up when not in use as dengue infection carrying mosquitoes breed there a lot. Mosquito nets should be used at home," the doctor said.&nbsp;

The cases of vector-borne diseases are usually reported between July and November, but the period may stretch to mid-December. No vector-borne disease case was reported till January 13.

The report said domestic breeding checkers found mosquito breeding in 1,87,239 households in the city till October 13. It said 1,52,776 legal notices have been served for various violations and "26,388 prosecutions initiated".

As a pro-active measure, Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal had few a months ago directed local bodies and other agencies to intensify vector-control measures.

He had also asked for regular meetings at the level of district magistrates with all stakeholders to review the situation in their respective districts.

According to the SDMC, 10 people died due to dengue in Delhi last year, of whom five were not residents of the national capital.

Overall, the vector-borne disease had affected 9,271 people in the city last year.

Dengue cases have mounted in the city, with at least 830 people being diagnosed with the vector-borne disease this season, over 42 per cent of which were reported this month, according to a municipal report released Monday.

Dengue cases have mounted in the city, with at least 830 people being diagnosed with the vector-borne disease this season, over 42 per cent of which were reported this month, according to a municipal report released Monday. The report says nearly 350 of the cases came to light in the first two weeks of this month alone. Also, 385 cases of malaria and 97 of chikungunya have been reported this season till October 13, the report said. Of the 830 dengue cases this year, 374 were recorded in September, 58 in August, 19 in July, eight in June, 10 in May, two in April, one in March, three in February and six cases in January. Two cases of malaria were reported in February, one each in April and March, 17 in May, 25 in June, 42 in July, 82 in August, 138 in September and 77 till October 6, according to the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC), which tabulates data on vector-borne diseases for the city. A senior doctor at a government-run facility advised people to take all precautions like wearing full-sleeves and not allowing the breeding of mosquito larvae inside their homes. "Water coolers should be dried up when not in use as dengue infection carrying mosquitoes breed there a lot. Mosquito nets should be used at home," the doctor said. The cases of vector-borne diseases are usually reported between July and November, but the period may stretch to mid-December. No vector-borne disease case was reported till January 13. The report said domestic breeding checkers found mosquito breeding in 1,87,239 households in the city till October 13. It said 1,52,776 legal notices have been served for various violations and "26,388 prosecutions initiated". As a pro-active measure, Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal had few a months ago directed local bodies and other agencies to intensify vector-control measures. He had also asked for regular meetings at the level of district magistrates with all stakeholders to review the situation in their respective districts. According to the SDMC, 10 people died due to dengue in Delhi last year, of whom five were not residents of the national capital. Overall, the vector-borne disease had affected 9,271 people in the city last year.

830 dengue cases in Delhi, nearly 350 recorded in October

An emergency action plan will be implemented from Monday to combat air pollution that has begun to show a trend towards very poor category, the Central Pollution Control Board said.

Under the emergency plan called Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), stringent actions are implemented based on the air quality of the city.

If the air quality lies in moderate to poor category- measures like stopping garbage burning in landfills and other places, and enforcing all pollution control regulations in brick kilns and industries would be implemented, an official official said.

If the air quality falls in the very poor category, additional measures of stopping use of diesel generator sets, enhancing parking fees 3-4 times and increasing frequency of metro and buses would be implemented, he added.

If the air quality falls in the severe category, additional measures would be implemented of increasing frequency of mechanised cleaning of roads, sprinkling of water on roads and identifying road stretches with high dust generation.

If the air quality falls to severe plus emergency category, then measures like stopping entry of trucks into Delhi (except essential commodities), stopping construction activities and appointment of task force to take decision on any additional steps, including shutting of schools, are implemented.

The measures depending upon the air quality will be implemented from Monday.

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Currently the air quality is in the poor category but authorities have predicted that it would reach the 'very poor' category in the next couple of days.

In addition to GRAP, the CPCB has also deployed 41 teams across the Delhi NCR to monitor proper implementation of norms enforced to prevent pollution at the source.

Till October 11, 96 inspections were conducted by the teams across Delhi NCR and the inspections would intensify in the coming days, a senior CPCB official said.

The inspections was started by the two-member team on September 15, he added.

Meanwhile, satellite images from the NASA showed rampant stubble burning activity in Punjab and Haryana.

The NASA, on its official website, stated that burning of crop residue in Punjab and Haryana has increased significantly over the past 10 days in and near Amritsar, Ambala, Karnal, Sirsa and Hisar.

Burning of paddy straw every year during October and November and wheat straw during April in Punjab and Haryana are the major contributors of air pollution in Delhi-NCR, as the smoke travels towards the national capital. In Delhi, it mixes with the fog and creates a toxic smoggy winter every year.

An emergency action plan will be implemented from Monday to combat air pollution that has begun to show a trend towards very poor category, the Central Pollution Control Board said.

An emergency action plan will be implemented from Monday to combat air pollution that has begun to show a trend towards very poor category, the Central Pollution Control Board said. Under the emergency plan called Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), stringent actions are implemented based on the air quality of the city. If the air quality lies in moderate to poor category- measures like stopping garbage burning in landfills and other places, and enforcing all pollution control regulations in brick kilns and industries would be implemented, an official official said. If the air quality falls in the very poor category, additional measures of stopping use of diesel generator sets, enhancing parking fees 3-4 times and increasing frequency of metro and buses would be implemented, he added. If the air quality falls in the severe category, additional measures would be implemented of increasing frequency of mechanised cleaning of roads, sprinkling of water on roads and identifying road stretches with high dust generation. If the air quality falls to severe plus emergency category, then measures like stopping entry of trucks into Delhi (except essential commodities), stopping construction activities and appointment of task force to take decision on any additional steps, including shutting of schools, are implemented. The measures depending upon the air quality will be implemented from Monday. × Currently the air quality is in the poor category but authorities have predicted that it would reach the 'very poor' category in the next couple of days. In addition to GRAP, the CPCB has also deployed 41 teams across the Delhi NCR to monitor proper implementation of norms enforced to prevent pollution at the source. Till October 11, 96 inspections were conducted by the teams across Delhi NCR and the inspections would intensify in the coming days, a senior CPCB official said. The inspections was started by the two-member team on September 15, he added. Meanwhile, satellite images from the NASA showed rampant stubble burning activity in Punjab and Haryana. The NASA, on its official website, stated that burning of crop residue in Punjab and Haryana has increased significantly over the past 10 days in and near Amritsar, Ambala, Karnal, Sirsa and Hisar. Burning of paddy straw every year during October and November and wheat straw during April in Punjab and Haryana are the major contributors of air pollution in Delhi-NCR, as the smoke travels towards the national capital. In Delhi, it mixes with the fog and creates a toxic smoggy winter every year.

Delhi: Air quality worsens, emergency plan kicks in from Monday

The Delhi Congress has decided to burn effigies of AAP and BJP leaders on the eve of Dussehra over their "failure" to provide relief to the people of the national capital from the sealing drive.

Senior Delhi Congress leader Mukesh Sharma said specially-designed Ravana effigies with the multiple heads of the mythical demon king replaced by pictures of BJP and AAP leaders will be burnt at 14 locations in the city.

"This is our protest against the ruling AAP in Delhi and the BJP at the Centre, over their failure to do anything for Delhites hit by illegal sealing in many areas," said Sharma, who is convener of the Congress' 'Nyay Yudh' campaign against the sealing drive.

"At the centre will be photos of Narendra Modi and Arvind Kejriwal, flanked on either side by BJP MPs from Delhi and AAP ministers," Sharma said, adding one of the effigies would be torched by by Delhi Congress president Ajay Maken.

"This will be a symbolic protest against the AAP and BJP who despite having votes of Delhiites deserted them when sealing drive hit them hard," he said.

A large number of commercial and residential premises have been sealed by BJP-ruled municipal corporations in the city for violating the city's master plan.

The sealing drive is being supervised by a Supreme Court appointed monitoring committee. The three major political outfits in Delhi -- the AAP, the BJP and the Congress -- have been engaged in blame game over the issue in the run up to the Lok Sabha elections next year.

Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari, who alleged that an "illegal" sealing industry was coming up due to "corrupt" officials, is facing a contempt notice for breaking the seal on a premises in Gokalpuri, sealed by civic officials.

The ruling AAP has demanded an ordinance from the Centre to stop sealing while accusing the BJP of being involved in corruption in the three municipal corporations of the national capital ruled by it.&nbsp;

The Delhi Congress has decided to burn effigies of AAP and BJP leaders on the eve of Dussehra over their "failure" to provide relief to the people of the national capital from the sealing drive.

The Delhi Congress has decided to burn effigies of AAP and BJP leaders on the eve of Dussehra over their "failure" to provide relief to the people of the national capital from the sealing drive. Senior Delhi Congress leader Mukesh Sharma said specially-designed Ravana effigies with the multiple heads of the mythical demon king replaced by pictures of BJP and AAP leaders will be burnt at 14 locations in the city. "This is our protest against the ruling AAP in Delhi and the BJP at the Centre, over their failure to do anything for Delhites hit by illegal sealing in many areas," said Sharma, who is convener of the Congress' 'Nyay Yudh' campaign against the sealing drive. "At the centre will be photos of Narendra Modi and Arvind Kejriwal, flanked on either side by BJP MPs from Delhi and AAP ministers," Sharma said, adding one of the effigies would be torched by by Delhi Congress president Ajay Maken. "This will be a symbolic protest against the AAP and BJP who despite having votes of Delhiites deserted them when sealing drive hit them hard," he said. A large number of commercial and residential premises have been sealed by BJP-ruled municipal corporations in the city for violating the city's master plan. The sealing drive is being supervised by a Supreme Court appointed monitoring committee. The three major political outfits in Delhi -- the AAP, the BJP and the Congress -- have been engaged in blame game over the issue in the run up to the Lok Sabha elections next year. Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari, who alleged that an "illegal" sealing industry was coming up due to "corrupt" officials, is facing a contempt notice for breaking the seal on a premises in Gokalpuri, sealed by civic officials. The ruling AAP has demanded an ordinance from the Centre to stop sealing while accusing the BJP of being involved in corruption in the three municipal corporations of the national capital ruled by it.

Delhi: Congress to protest against BJP, AAP on Dussehra eve over sealing drive

Petrol prices in Mumbai and the national capital remained unchanged on Wednesday after a series of relentless rise over the past few weeks. Diesel, however, rose to Rs 74.35 per litre, increased by Rs 0.24 per litre, in Delhi and Rs 77.93, up by Rs 0.25 per litre, in Mumbai today.&nbsp;

Petrol and diesel prices in the country went up again <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/fuel-prices-rise-again-petrol-sells-at-rs-8226-per-litre-in-delhi-170311">for the second straight day in a week on Tuesday</a>. Petrol price in the national capital rose to Rs 82.26 per litre, increased by Rs 0.23, while diesel prices amounted to Rs 74.11, up by Rs 0.29 in Delhi yesterday.

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Diesel price at Rs 74.35 per litre (increased by Rs 0.24 per litre) in Delhi and Rs 77.93 (increased by Rs 0.25 per litre) in Mumbai <a href="https://t.co/opix7Z4iWV">pic.twitter.com/opix7Z4iWV</a>
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In Mumbai, petrol was selling for Rs 87.73 per litre on Tuesday, while diesel was priced at Rs 77.68 per litre.

Fuel prices have been rising unabated even after the Central government last Thursday announced a relief of Rs 2.50 on petrol and diesel prices. Various state governments also provided a relief of Rs 2.50 to give a &nbsp;cumulative relief of Rs 5 on fuel prices to the customers.&nbsp;

Petrol prices in Mumbai and the national capital remained unchanged on Wednesday after a series of relentless rise over the past few weeks. Diesel, however, rose to Rs 74.

Petrol prices in Mumbai and the national capital remained unchanged on Wednesday after a series of relentless rise over the past few weeks. Diesel, however, rose to Rs 74.35 per litre, increased by Rs 0.24 per litre, in Delhi and Rs 77.93, up by Rs 0.25 per litre, in Mumbai today. Petrol and diesel prices in the country went up again for the second straight day in a week on Tuesday. Petrol price in the national capital rose to Rs 82.26 per litre, increased by Rs 0.23, while diesel prices amounted to Rs 74.11, up by Rs 0.29 in Delhi yesterday. Diesel price at Rs 74.35 per litre (increased by Rs 0.24 per litre) in Delhi and Rs 77.93 (increased by Rs 0.25 per litre) in Mumbai pic.twitter.com/opix7Z4iWV — ANI (@ANI) October 10, 2018 × In Mumbai, petrol was selling for Rs 87.73 per litre on Tuesday, while diesel was priced at Rs 77.68 per litre. Fuel prices have been rising unabated even after the Central government last Thursday announced a relief of Rs 2.50 on petrol and diesel prices. Various state governments also provided a relief of Rs 2.50 to give a cumulative relief of Rs 5 on fuel prices to the customers.

Diesel prices rise, petrol remains unchanged

After the Indian government <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-refuses-intervene-deportation-7-rohingya-refugees-myanmar-169333">deported seven of them to Myanmar this week</a>, Rohingya refugees in India say they do not wish to return "until peace is restored in their homeland".&nbsp;

And they added that the seven Rohingya refugees who have been deported will very soon be killed.&nbsp;

"I have been living here since 2012. I only request the government to let us live here. We have faced a lot of hardships in our country. We did not leave our country out of greed, no one really wants to leave their own nation," Mohammad Farooq told ANI.&nbsp;

"Our records are there with the authorities and the UN. Police brought us a form to fill but it was in Burmese language and we refused to fill it. The seven people who have been deported won`t be alive for long. They will be killed," Mohammad added.&nbsp;

Mohammad currently lives in Delhi's Kalindi Kunj.&nbsp;

Haroon said the same thing to ANI.&nbsp;

"We are living here since 2005. The government has provided us with no help apart from long-term visa. The government has stopped renewing it since 2017. It was previously renewed five times. We want to request the government that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-rohingya-refugees-struggle-with-hatred-fear-as-first-group-is-expelled-169923">there is still no peace in our country</a>. Houses are still being burnt there. No matter how long we live here, we will not get a citizenship until the government makes such provision," Haroon said. &nbsp;

"Some people have filled a form that has come from Burma embassy. Whatever Indian government`s order comes we follow but we did not fill that form because it was all in the Burmese language. Filling it would mean that we are going to Burma with our free will. We do not want to go to Myanmar as of now," he added.&nbsp;

The seven Rohingya refugees deported to Myanmar had been in custody in Assam since 2012. They were bussed to the Moreh border post in Myanmar and handed over to Myanmarese authorities on Thursday after the Supreme Court refused to intervene in the deportation.&nbsp;

The court said it did not wish to interfere in the Central government's decision.&nbsp;

The special rapporteur on racism at the India office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees however had said the move might amount to refoulment — or the deliberate return of refugees to a place where they face persecution and the threat of violence.&nbsp;

Refoulment falls foul of international law.&nbsp;

The office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees had added that the seven Rohingya should be allowed to make an "informed decision" about whether they wish to return, or claim asylum in India.&nbsp;

Some 700,000 Rohingya have fled Myanmar since August 2017 after a military campaign against them. The military campaign — which the UN has called ethnic cleansing — followed an attack on police and army posts by the militant Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army group.&nbsp;

About 40,000 Rohingya currently live in India.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

After the Indian government deported seven of them to Myanmar this week, Rohingya refugees in India say they do not wish to return "until peace is restored in their homeland".

After the Indian government deported seven of them to Myanmar this week, Rohingya refugees in India say they do not wish to return "until peace is restored in their homeland". And they added that the seven Rohingya refugees who have been deported will very soon be killed. "I have been living here since 2012. I only request the government to let us live here. We have faced a lot of hardships in our country. We did not leave our country out of greed, no one really wants to leave their own nation," Mohammad Farooq told ANI. "Our records are there with the authorities and the UN. Police brought us a form to fill but it was in Burmese language and we refused to fill it. The seven people who have been deported won`t be alive for long. They will be killed," Mohammad added. Mohammad currently lives in Delhi's Kalindi Kunj. Haroon said the same thing to ANI. "We are living here since 2005. The government has provided us with no help apart from long-term visa. The government has stopped renewing it since 2017. It was previously renewed five times. We want to request the government that there is still no peace in our country. Houses are still being burnt there. No matter how long we live here, we will not get a citizenship until the government makes such provision," Haroon said. "Some people have filled a form that has come from Burma embassy. Whatever Indian government`s order comes we follow but we did not fill that form because it was all in the Burmese language. Filling it would mean that we are going to Burma with our free will. We do not want to go to Myanmar as of now," he added. The seven Rohingya refugees deported to Myanmar had been in custody in Assam since 2012. They were bussed to the Moreh border post in Myanmar and handed over to Myanmarese authorities on Thursday after the Supreme Court refused to intervene in the deportation. The court said it did not wish to interfere in the Central government's decision. The special rapporteur on racism at the India office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees however had said the move might amount to refoulment — or the deliberate return of refugees to a place where they face persecution and the threat of violence. Refoulment falls foul of international law. The office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees had added that the seven Rohingya should be allowed to make an "informed decision" about whether they wish to return, or claim asylum in India. Some 700,000 Rohingya have fled Myanmar since August 2017 after a military campaign against them. The military campaign — which the UN has called ethnic cleansing — followed an attack on police and army posts by the militant Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army group. About 40,000 Rohingya currently live in India. (With inputs from ANI)

7 Rohingya deported to Myanmar will be killed very soon: Rohingya refugees in Delhi

The Delhi Police on Tuesday issued a statement over the measures undertaken to curb the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/industry/protesting-farmers-not-satisfied-govt-assurance-naresh-tikait-168974">farmers' protests</a> in the capital city.

The police said that the farmers turned violent and tried to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-police-use-water-cannon-tear-gas-farmers-protests-intensify-near-delhi-border">break barricades</a> through tractor-trolleys and were also carrying lathis even when the security issued persuasive methods to deal with them.&nbsp;

The statement mentioned that announcements were regularly made about the promulgation of section 144 and requests were made not to attempt entry into Delhi forcefully on tractor-trolleys.&nbsp;

"Despite persuasive methods requesting them to wait till the outcome of talks of their leaders with the government, a section of the crowd turned violent and tried to break barricades forcefully through tractor-trolleys and were also carrying lathi," the statement added.&nbsp;

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Despite persuasive methods requesting them to wait till outcome of talks of their leaders with govt, a section of crowd turned violent &amp; tried to break barricades forcefully through tractor-trolleys &amp; were also carrying lathis: Delhi Police on today's action on protesting farmers <a href="https://t.co/WJ9pnDTGRm">pic.twitter.com/WJ9pnDTGRm</a>
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The protestors were assured by their leaders that their demands are being projected at appropriate levels. &nbsp;

The farmers were marching towards Delhi over demands ranging from farm loan waiver to cut in fuel prices but were stopped at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border with police using water cannons to disperse them.&nbsp;

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Some protestors resorted to stone pelting&amp;wielded lathis causing injuries to police personnel deployed on duty. Under these circumstances, only minimum reqd force was used to contain these aggressive&amp;violent protestors. (File pic of police action on protestors at UP-Delhi border) <a href="https://t.co/VyEXBF1gYD">pic.twitter.com/VyEXBF1gYD</a>
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Naresh Tikait, the chief of Bharat Kisan Union (BKU), which has given the protest call, said the farmers are "not satisfied" with the government's assurance.

"We will discuss this and then decide on future course of action. I can't decide anything alone, our committee will take the decision," he added.

The Delhi Police on Tuesday issued a statement over the measures undertaken to curb the farmers' protests in the capital city. The police said that the farmers turned violent and tried to break barricades through tractor-trolleys and were also carrying lathis even when the security issued persuasive methods to deal with them.

The Delhi Police on Tuesday issued a statement over the measures undertaken to curb the farmers' protests in the capital city. The police said that the farmers turned violent and tried to break barricades through tractor-trolleys and were also carrying lathis even when the security issued persuasive methods to deal with them. The statement mentioned that announcements were regularly made about the promulgation of section 144 and requests were made not to attempt entry into Delhi forcefully on tractor-trolleys. "Despite persuasive methods requesting them to wait till the outcome of talks of their leaders with the government, a section of the crowd turned violent and tried to break barricades forcefully through tractor-trolleys and were also carrying lathi," the statement added. Despite persuasive methods requesting them to wait till outcome of talks of their leaders with govt, a section of crowd turned violent & tried to break barricades forcefully through tractor-trolleys & were also carrying lathis: Delhi Police on today's action on protesting farmers pic.twitter.com/WJ9pnDTGRm — ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2018 × The protestors were assured by their leaders that their demands are being projected at appropriate levels. The farmers were marching towards Delhi over demands ranging from farm loan waiver to cut in fuel prices but were stopped at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border with police using water cannons to disperse them. Some protestors resorted to stone pelting&wielded lathis causing injuries to police personnel deployed on duty. Under these circumstances, only minimum reqd force was used to contain these aggressive&violent protestors. (File pic of police action on protestors at UP-Delhi border) pic.twitter.com/VyEXBF1gYD — ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2018 × Naresh Tikait, the chief of Bharat Kisan Union (BKU), which has given the protest call, said the farmers are "not satisfied" with the government's assurance. "We will discuss this and then decide on future course of action. I can't decide anything alone, our committee will take the decision," he added.

Crowd turned violent despite requests: Delhi Police on action against protesting farmers

As thousands of farmers tried to enter the national capital in a massive protest march, the government Tuesday announced that a committee of chief ministers will look into their demands, even as the protesters stayed put saying they were not "satisfied" with the assurance.

After meeting the protesting farmers at the Delhi-UP border here, Union minister of state for agriculture Rajendra Singh Shekhawat said the government was assuring the farmers to take forward their cause.

"I assure you all this. We will move court over the NGT order (to ban tractor and vehicles which are more than 10 years old," he said.

On another problem faced by the farmers about farm labour, the minister said the government would look at bringing in some changes to the minimum wage rules for rural areas to solve this problem.

"The government has formed a committee of six chief ministers to look into this issue of labour for farm. The committee is in talks to connect MNREGA with agriculture," Shekhawat added.

"On behalf of (Union Home Minister) Rajnath Singh, I assure you that I will represent the farmers' interests in this committee and whatever changes would be required to link MNREGA with agriculture will be made," Shekhawat told the farmers.

The protesting farmers, however, decided to stay put at the Delhi border, where they have been stopped by the police from entering the national capital.

Naresh Tikait, the chief of Bharat Kisan Union (BKU), which has given the protest call, said the farmers are "not satisfied" with the government's assurance.

"We will discuss this and then decide on future course of action. I can't decide anything alone, our committee will take the decision," he added.

The farmers were marching towards Delhi over demands ranging from farm loan waiver to cut in fuel prices, but were stopped at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border with police using water cannons to disperse them.&nbsp;

The farmers, riding tractors and trolleys, broke barricades of the UP Police and then started proceeding towards the barricades put up by the Delhi Police, a senior police officer said.&nbsp;

As thousands of farmers tried to enter the national capital in a massive protest march, the government Tuesday announced that a committee of chief ministers will look into their demands, even as the protesters stayed put saying they were not "satisfied" with the assurance.

As thousands of farmers tried to enter the national capital in a massive protest march, the government Tuesday announced that a committee of chief ministers will look into their demands, even as the protesters stayed put saying they were not "satisfied" with the assurance. After meeting the protesting farmers at the Delhi-UP border here, Union minister of state for agriculture Rajendra Singh Shekhawat said the government was assuring the farmers to take forward their cause. "I assure you all this. We will move court over the NGT order (to ban tractor and vehicles which are more than 10 years old," he said. On another problem faced by the farmers about farm labour, the minister said the government would look at bringing in some changes to the minimum wage rules for rural areas to solve this problem. "The government has formed a committee of six chief ministers to look into this issue of labour for farm. The committee is in talks to connect MNREGA with agriculture," Shekhawat added. "On behalf of (Union Home Minister) Rajnath Singh, I assure you that I will represent the farmers' interests in this committee and whatever changes would be required to link MNREGA with agriculture will be made," Shekhawat told the farmers. The protesting farmers, however, decided to stay put at the Delhi border, where they have been stopped by the police from entering the national capital. Naresh Tikait, the chief of Bharat Kisan Union (BKU), which has given the protest call, said the farmers are "not satisfied" with the government's assurance. "We will discuss this and then decide on future course of action. I can't decide anything alone, our committee will take the decision," he added. The farmers were marching towards Delhi over demands ranging from farm loan waiver to cut in fuel prices, but were stopped at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border with police using water cannons to disperse them. The farmers, riding tractors and trolleys, broke barricades of the UP Police and then started proceeding towards the barricades put up by the Delhi Police, a senior police officer said.

Not 'satisfied' with government assurance, farmers say protests will continue

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Tuesday that preventing a protest march of farmers from entering the national capital was "wrong" and pitched for allowing them entry into the city.

"Why are the farmers being stopped from entering Delhi. It is wrong. Delhi belongs to all. They should be given entry in Delhi. We support their demands," he told reporters on the sidelines of an event held at the Delhi assembly to mark Gandhi Jayanti.

Farmers marching towards Delhi as part of the Bharatiya Kisan Union's (BKU) protest call over demands ranging from farm loan waiver to cut in fuel prices, were stopped at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border Tuesday with police using water cannons to disperse them.

The farmers, riding tractors and trolleys, broke barricades of the UP Police and then started proceeding towards the barricades put up by the Delhi Police, a senior police officer said.

The city police had on Monday imposed prohibitory orders in east and northeast Delhi, anticipating law and order problems in view of the protest.

In east Delhi, the prohibitory orders issued by Deputy Commissioner of Police (East) Pankaj Singh under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, will be in force until October 8.

It covers Preet Vihar, Jagatpuri, Shakarpur, Madhu Vihar, Ghazipur, Mayur Vihar, Mandawli, Pandav Nagar, Kalyanpuri and New Ashok Nagar police station limits.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Tuesday that preventing a protest march of farmers from entering the national capital was "wrong" and pitched for allowing them entry into the city.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Tuesday that preventing a protest march of farmers from entering the national capital was "wrong" and pitched for allowing them entry into the city. "Why are the farmers being stopped from entering Delhi. It is wrong. Delhi belongs to all. They should be given entry in Delhi. We support their demands," he told reporters on the sidelines of an event held at the Delhi assembly to mark Gandhi Jayanti. Farmers marching towards Delhi as part of the Bharatiya Kisan Union's (BKU) protest call over demands ranging from farm loan waiver to cut in fuel prices, were stopped at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border Tuesday with police using water cannons to disperse them. The farmers, riding tractors and trolleys, broke barricades of the UP Police and then started proceeding towards the barricades put up by the Delhi Police, a senior police officer said. The city police had on Monday imposed prohibitory orders in east and northeast Delhi, anticipating law and order problems in view of the protest. In east Delhi, the prohibitory orders issued by Deputy Commissioner of Police (East) Pankaj Singh under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, will be in force until October 8. It covers Preet Vihar, Jagatpuri, Shakarpur, Madhu Vihar, Ghazipur, Mayur Vihar, Mandawli, Pandav Nagar, Kalyanpuri and New Ashok Nagar police station limits.

Arvind Kejriwal says farmers protesting should be allowed to enter Delhi

An Army Major has been booked for allegedly raping his domestic help in southwest Delhi on a day in July her husband allegedly committed suicide, the police said Sunday.&nbsp;

They said a case was registered at the Delhi Cantonment police station on September 25 based on a complaint filed by the woman.

In her complaint, the woman has alleged that she was raped by the Major on July 12, the same day her husband allegedly killed himself, a senior police officer said.

During investigation, police learnt that the woman's husband had committed suicide in a servant quarter where they used to reside, he said.&nbsp;

The woman was working at the Major's house even after the rape incident, he added.

A case has been registered, police said, adding the matter is being probed.&nbsp;

An Army Major has been booked for allegedly raping his domestic help in southwest Delhi on a day in July her husband allegedly committed suicide, the police said Sunday.

An Army Major has been booked for allegedly raping his domestic help in southwest Delhi on a day in July her husband allegedly committed suicide, the police said Sunday. They said a case was registered at the Delhi Cantonment police station on September 25 based on a complaint filed by the woman. In her complaint, the woman has alleged that she was raped by the Major on July 12, the same day her husband allegedly killed himself, a senior police officer said. During investigation, police learnt that the woman's husband had committed suicide in a servant quarter where they used to reside, he said. The woman was working at the Major's house even after the rape incident, he added. A case has been registered, police said, adding the matter is being probed.

Delhi: Army major booked for raping domestic help

Fuel prices in the national capital continued to rise on Saturday with petrol prices registering an increase of Rs 0.22 paise while diesel shot up by Rs 0.21 paise.

Petrol in Delhi today will be sold at Rs 83.40 per litre whereas diesel amounts to Rs 74.63 per litre.&nbsp;

For Mumbaikars, petrol prices inched further towards the Rs 91-mark at Rs 90.75 per litre, an increase of Rs 0.22 from Friday. Diesel in Mumbai will be sold for Rs 79.23 per litre, up by Rs 0.22 on Saturday.

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Petrol &amp; Diesel prices in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> are Rs 83.40 per litre (increase by Rs 0.22) &amp; Rs 74.63 per litre (increase by Rs 0.21), respectively. Petrol &amp; Diesel prices in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a> are Rs 90.75 per litre (increase by Rs 0.22) &amp; Rs 79.23 per litre (increase by Rs 0.22), respectively. <a href="https://t.co/jI6d3dt85c">pic.twitter.com/jI6d3dt85c</a>
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On Friday, petrol in the national capital amounted to Rs 83.22 per litre while diesel prices stood at Rs 74.42 per litre.

In Mumbai, petrol was priced at Rs 90.57 per litre and diesel was sold at Rs 79.01 per litre respectively. Petrol prices in Mumbai had crossed the Rs 90-mark on Monday.

The rise in international crude prices, which crossed $81 per barrel on Wednesday, has added to India's woes including the effect of a sliding Rupee has led to a large-scale increase in fuel prices.

Earlier this month, Union transport minister Nitin Gadkari had admitted that fuel prices were "very high and hurting the public".

Fuel prices in the national capital continued to rise on Saturday with petrol prices registering an increase of Rs 0.22 paise while diesel shot up by Rs 0.21 paise.

Fuel prices in the national capital continued to rise on Saturday with petrol prices registering an increase of Rs 0.22 paise while diesel shot up by Rs 0.21 paise. Petrol in Delhi today will be sold at Rs 83.40 per litre whereas diesel amounts to Rs 74.63 per litre. For Mumbaikars, petrol prices inched further towards the Rs 91-mark at Rs 90.75 per litre, an increase of Rs 0.22 from Friday. Diesel in Mumbai will be sold for Rs 79.23 per litre, up by Rs 0.22 on Saturday. Petrol & Diesel prices in #Delhi are Rs 83.40 per litre (increase by Rs 0.22) & Rs 74.63 per litre (increase by Rs 0.21), respectively. Petrol & Diesel prices in #Mumbai are Rs 90.75 per litre (increase by Rs 0.22) & Rs 79.23 per litre (increase by Rs 0.22), respectively. pic.twitter.com/jI6d3dt85c — ANI (@ANI) September 29, 2018 × On Friday, petrol in the national capital amounted to Rs 83.22 per litre while diesel prices stood at Rs 74.42 per litre. In Mumbai, petrol was priced at Rs 90.57 per litre and diesel was sold at Rs 79.01 per litre respectively. Petrol prices in Mumbai had crossed the Rs 90-mark on Monday. The rise in international crude prices, which crossed $81 per barrel on Wednesday, has added to India's woes including the effect of a sliding Rupee has led to a large-scale increase in fuel prices. Earlier this month, Union transport minister Nitin Gadkari had admitted that fuel prices were "very high and hurting the public".

Fuel prices continue to rise on fourth day this week, petrol jumps to Rs 83.40 in Delhi

The Delhi Congress on Thursday made it clear it will have no alliance with Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for 2019 Lok Sabha elections, after Delhi Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goel advocated participation of the AAP in the proposed grand alliance of opposition parties to take on the BJP.

The Congress leaders and workers are against any alliance with the AAP, whose vote share is "fast eroding", for 2019 Parliamentary elections, Delhi Congress chief spokesperson Sharmishtha Mukherjee and senior leader Chatar Singh said in a statement.

"Congress will have no alliance with Aam Aadmi Party in the Parliamentary elections in Delhi in 2019," they said.

Referring to Goel's statement, they said there is "no change in the Congress stand" that it will not have any tie-up with the AAP in the Parliamentary elections in 2019.

The Delhi Assembly Speaker, on the sidelines of an event, said that participation of AAP in proposed Mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) will be in thee interest of Delhi and the country.

After a meeting with the district Congress committees on June 2 this year, Delhi Congress president Ajay Maken had said that the Congress workers and leaders of Delhi do not want any electoral understanding with Arvind Kejriwal's party in the 2019 Parliamentary elections."

Aam Aadmi Party(AAP) that won 67 out of 70 Assembly seats in the 2015 Assembly elections in Delhi, is now "struggling" to keep its flock together as the popularity of the party has been fast "eroding", the Congress leaders claimed.

The vote share of ruling AAP came down to 26 per cent in last year's municipal corporation elections while the vote percentage of Congress went up from 9.5 percent to 26 per cent, they said.

"Congress graph has been steadily going up since the 2015 Assembly elections. The average vote percentage of the Congress in elections held following 2015 Assembly polls in Delhi had been 26.24 per cent while that of the AAAP came down to 28 per cent from as high as 56-57 per cent," they claimed.

The Delhi Congress on Thursday made it clear it will have no alliance with Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for 2019 Lok Sabha elections, after Delhi Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goel advocated participation of the AAP in the proposed grand alliance of opposition parties to take on the BJP.

The Delhi Congress on Thursday made it clear it will have no alliance with Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for 2019 Lok Sabha elections, after Delhi Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goel advocated participation of the AAP in the proposed grand alliance of opposition parties to take on the BJP. The Congress leaders and workers are against any alliance with the AAP, whose vote share is "fast eroding", for 2019 Parliamentary elections, Delhi Congress chief spokesperson Sharmishtha Mukherjee and senior leader Chatar Singh said in a statement. "Congress will have no alliance with Aam Aadmi Party in the Parliamentary elections in Delhi in 2019," they said. Referring to Goel's statement, they said there is "no change in the Congress stand" that it will not have any tie-up with the AAP in the Parliamentary elections in 2019. The Delhi Assembly Speaker, on the sidelines of an event, said that participation of AAP in proposed Mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) will be in thee interest of Delhi and the country. After a meeting with the district Congress committees on June 2 this year, Delhi Congress president Ajay Maken had said that the Congress workers and leaders of Delhi do not want any electoral understanding with Arvind Kejriwal's party in the 2019 Parliamentary elections." Aam Aadmi Party(AAP) that won 67 out of 70 Assembly seats in the 2015 Assembly elections in Delhi, is now "struggling" to keep its flock together as the popularity of the party has been fast "eroding", the Congress leaders claimed. The vote share of ruling AAP came down to 26 per cent in last year's municipal corporation elections while the vote percentage of Congress went up from 9.5 percent to 26 per cent, they said. "Congress graph has been steadily going up since the 2015 Assembly elections. The average vote percentage of the Congress in elections held following 2015 Assembly polls in Delhi had been 26.24 per cent while that of the AAAP came down to 28 per cent from as high as 56-57 per cent," they claimed.

Delhi Congress rules out any alliance with AAP for 2019 parliamentary polls

Fuel prices in Delhi and Mumbai saw a fresh hike on Tuesday with petrol selling at Rs 82.86 per litre in Delhi and diesel at Rs 74.12 per litre. Petrol prices in the national capital today witnessed a rise of 14 paise whereas diesel rose by 10 paise.&nbsp;

In Mumbai, petrol and diesel prices amounted to Rs 90.22 per litre and Rs 78.69 per litre, respectively.

Petrol prices in Mumbai breached Rs 90-mark on Monday. The revised rates of petrol and diesel in the financial capital stood at Rs 90.08/litre and Rs 78.58/litre respectively.

The petrol price on Monday touched Rs 82.72 per litre. Diesel price in the national capital stood at Rs 74.02 per litre.&nbsp;

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Petrol &amp; Diesel prices in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> are Rs 82.86 per litre &amp; Rs 74.12 per litre, respectively. Petrol &amp; Diesel prices in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a> are Rs 90.22 per litre &amp; Rs 78.69 per litre, respectively. <a href="https://t.co/hs3dbrwfq4">pic.twitter.com/hs3dbrwfq4</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1044389486325616640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Department of Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg on Friday said that discussions are taking place with the United States regarding the reduction of oil imports from Iran.

"We are in talks with the USA and they told us to reduce the import from Iran significantly. We have done that to some extent. As clarity in the situation emerges, steps will be taken accordingly by the government by November 4," he told ANI.

Fuel prices across the country have been witnessing an unabated rise since the past few weeks. The central government has been blaming the rise in global crude prices for the hike in domestic fuel prices.&nbsp;

Fuel prices in Delhi and Mumbai saw a fresh hike on Tuesday with petrol selling at Rs 82.86 per litre in Delhi and diesel at Rs 74.12 per litre. Petrol prices in the national capital today witnessed a rise of 14 paise whereas diesel rose by 10 paise.

Fuel prices in Delhi and Mumbai saw a fresh hike on Tuesday with petrol selling at Rs 82.86 per litre in Delhi and diesel at Rs 74.12 per litre. Petrol prices in the national capital today witnessed a rise of 14 paise whereas diesel rose by 10 paise. In Mumbai, petrol and diesel prices amounted to Rs 90.22 per litre and Rs 78.69 per litre, respectively. Petrol prices in Mumbai breached Rs 90-mark on Monday. The revised rates of petrol and diesel in the financial capital stood at Rs 90.08/litre and Rs 78.58/litre respectively. The petrol price on Monday touched Rs 82.72 per litre. Diesel price in the national capital stood at Rs 74.02 per litre. Petrol & Diesel prices in #Delhi are Rs 82.86 per litre & Rs 74.12 per litre, respectively. Petrol & Diesel prices in #Mumbai are Rs 90.22 per litre & Rs 78.69 per litre, respectively. pic.twitter.com/hs3dbrwfq4 — ANI (@ANI) September 25, 2018 × Meanwhile, Department of Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg on Friday said that discussions are taking place with the United States regarding the reduction of oil imports from Iran. "We are in talks with the USA and they told us to reduce the import from Iran significantly. We have done that to some extent. As clarity in the situation emerges, steps will be taken accordingly by the government by November 4," he told ANI. Fuel prices across the country have been witnessing an unabated rise since the past few weeks. The central government has been blaming the rise in global crude prices for the hike in domestic fuel prices.

Fuel prices continue to rise, petrol at Rs 90.22 in Mumbai 

Another incident made headlines suggesting the gravity of the man-caused threat to the environment. According to reports, a group of birdwatchers spotted a stork in the national capital with a plastic ring around its beak. The bird was not able to eat due to a trapped beak for nearly 5 days.

As per reports, the bird was spotted on June 7 and was finally rescued on June 13. It&nbsp;released into the wild after being kept under observation for some time&nbsp;

The rubber stopper, which accidentally got stuck around the stork's beak, could have come from a bottle or a can, experts note.&nbsp;

Black-necked storks figure on the Red List suggesting their 'near-threatened' status. The birds inhabit wetlands and prey on fish and snails.

<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZTMdzp8ugXo" width="560"></iframe>

Plastic pollution is one of the major threats to the environment. This year's theme during the World Environment Day called for curbing plastic pollution and mitigating use of plastic articles.&nbsp;

According to a study published in the journal Science in 2015, every year, 8 million metric tons of plastic end up in the oceans "which would be equivalent to five grocery bags filled with plastic for every foot of coastline in the world," as mentioned on an online portal, Plastic Pollution.

Plastic waste poses a severe threat to the environment, marine life, the flora and fauna as well as to human health. The incident of a humble stork's ordeal was just one of the many examples that call for substantial change.&nbsp;

Black-necked storks figure on the Red List suggesting their 'near-threatened' status

Another incident made headlines suggesting the gravity of the man-caused threat to the environment. According to reports, a group of birdwatchers spotted a stork in the national capital with a plastic ring around its beak. The bird was not able to eat due to a trapped beak for nearly 5 days. As per reports, the bird was spotted on June 7 and was finally rescued on June 13. It released into the wild after being kept under observation for some time The rubber stopper, which accidentally got stuck around the stork's beak, could have come from a bottle or a can, experts note. Black-necked storks figure on the Red List suggesting their 'near-threatened' status. The birds inhabit wetlands and prey on fish and snails. Plastic pollution is one of the major threats to the environment. This year's theme during the World Environment Day called for curbing plastic pollution and mitigating use of plastic articles. According to a study published in the journal Science in 2015, every year, 8 million metric tons of plastic end up in the oceans "which would be equivalent to five grocery bags filled with plastic for every foot of coastline in the world," as mentioned on an online portal, Plastic Pollution. Plastic waste poses a severe threat to the environment, marine life, the flora and fauna as well as to human health. The incident of a humble stork's ordeal was just one of the many examples that call for substantial change.

Watch: After nearly 5 days of ordeal, stork with plastic ring around beak gets rescued

According to the Central Pollution Control Board data, the air quality in the national capital today deteriorated beyond the "severe" level because of a ground-level dust storm in western India.

According to reports, the dust storm has led to an increase in coarser particles in the air.

The CPCB data showed that the PM10 (particles with a diameter less than 10mm) level was beyond "severe" at 778 in Delhi-NCR area and 824 in Delhi particularly, leading to hazy conditions and limiting visibility.

"There was a ground-level dust storm in the western part of the country that increased drastically coarser particles in the air, causing a spike in pollution levels in Delhi," noted Gufran Beig, a scientist at the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research Institute.

"Such dust storms accompanied by high-speed winds (30-40 kmph) do not last too long due to which the air quality will return to normal by this evening," Beig added.

According to the CPCB data, the air quality index at several places in Delhi crossed the 500-mark. East Delhi's Anand Vihar area recorded an AQI of 891.

An AQI between 0-50 is considered 'Good', 51-100 'Satisfactory', 101-200 'Moderate', 201-300 'Poor', 301-400 'Very Poor', and 401-500 'Severe'.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

According to the CPCB data, the air quality index at several places in Delhi crossed the 500-mark

According to the Central Pollution Control Board data, the air quality in the national capital today deteriorated beyond the "severe" level because of a ground-level dust storm in western India. According to reports, the dust storm has led to an increase in coarser particles in the air. The CPCB data showed that the PM10 (particles with a diameter less than 10mm) level was beyond "severe" at 778 in Delhi-NCR area and 824 in Delhi particularly, leading to hazy conditions and limiting visibility. "There was a ground-level dust storm in the western part of the country that increased drastically coarser particles in the air, causing a spike in pollution levels in Delhi," noted Gufran Beig, a scientist at the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research Institute. "Such dust storms accompanied by high-speed winds (30-40 kmph) do not last too long due to which the air quality will return to normal by this evening," Beig added. According to the CPCB data, the air quality index at several places in Delhi crossed the 500-mark. East Delhi's Anand Vihar area recorded an AQI of 891. An AQI between 0-50 is considered 'Good', 51-100 'Satisfactory', 101-200 'Moderate', 201-300 'Poor', 301-400 'Very Poor', and 401-500 'Severe'. (With inputs from PTI)

Delhi air quality dips beyond 'severe' due to dust storm 

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues, who spent the night at the lieutenant governor's office, today dug in their heels with Health Minister Satyendar Jain beginning an indefinite hunger strike to press for their demands.

The AAP government's demands include a direction to IAS officers to end their "strike", action against those who have struck work for "four months". It has also asked the L-G to approve the proposal for doorstep delivery of rations.

Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, Development Minister Gopal Rai and Jain met Baijal at&nbsp;5.30 pm&nbsp;yesterday and have since stayed on.

After spending the entire night, Kejriwal released a video today and said that the AAP ministers had "no option" but to stage a sit-in at the LG's office as Lt Governor Anil Baijal was not paying heed to the Delhi government's demands "despite several requests".

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I am really appalled at LG’s stubborn refusal to end IAS strike and his justifications for ongoing strike. Wonder what are PMO’s instructions to him
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1006475254623973376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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It was the first time in the history of Delhi that the chief minister and his cabinet colleagues spent the night at the L-G's office to press for their demands, sources said.

The move drew criticism from the BJP's local unit who termed the sit-in as a "mockery of democracy".&nbsp;

"Making mockery of Democracy, No Work only Drama (sic)," Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari said on Twitter.&nbsp;

However, the AAP maintained that their fight will continue and they will not get "bogged down" till their demands are met.&nbsp;

"Modi and LG are not allowing us to work for the betterment. LG is orchestrating the strike by the IAS officers," AAP leader Sanjay Singh said.

The leader of opposition in the Delhi Assembly Vijender Gupta called Kejriwal's sit-in a way to "shirk work".

"Delhi's maalik (owner) Kejriwal and company are protesting inside an air-conditioned room. Delicacies are being served to them from outside, while the city's reeling under a water crisis. They are only concerned about politics and not about people's issues," he said on Twitter.

Meanwhile, Kejriwal, tweeted from the LG's office, "Satyender Jain starts indefinite fast".&nbsp;

Jain began his fast from the L-G's office at&nbsp;11 am.

Last night, the chief minister, who is a diabetic, had to take insulin during the sit-in and got "specific food" from his home, the sources said.

"My dear Delhiites, good morning. Struggle continues," Kejriwal tweeted at&nbsp;6.27 am&nbsp;from the L-G's office.&nbsp;

A number of AAP MLAs, party's leaders and workers have also camped near the L-G's office and the police have barricaded the area.

In the video statement released by him, Kejriwal said that the AAP ministers have staged a sit-in for the people of Delhi so that their work does not get affected.

According to the AAP government, officers have not been attending meetings with the ministers and not picking up their calls due to which the people's work was suffering.&nbsp;

Officers have gone on a "partial strike" since the alleged assault on Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash on the intervening night of&nbsp;February 19-20, it said.

In the video message, Kejriwal said that he and his ministers have been requesting the L-G since&nbsp;February 23&nbsp;to issue directions to the IAS officers to end their "strike", but the Lt Governor was not paying heed to their demands.&nbsp;

"Yesterday, we again met him (Baijal) and told him that he will go from here (L-G office) only after getting our demands fulfilled," he said.

The chief minister said, "We are not sitting here for ourselves, but we are sitting here for you (Delhiites) and for schools, water, mohalla clinics so that the people of Delhi could get facilities."

Kejriwal alleged that some of the officers told him that the L-G's office was "orchestrating" the "officers' strike" that is why Lt Governor does not want bureaucrats to end their strike.

The L-G's office slammed Kejriwal's sit-in, saying it was one more "dharna without reason".

A statement, issued by Baijal's office last evening, stated that the L-G was "threatened" to summon officers and issue directions to them to end their "strike" immediately.

In the morning, a letter, signed by Kejriwal, Sisodia, Rai and Jain, was sent to Baijal, asking him to take all necessary steps to end the "strike" by the IAS officers, including issuing written orders, that all those officers who do not return to work will be proceeded against and "if

necessary, ESMA may be invoked".

However, the officers association has claimed that no officer is on strike and no work has been affected.

"Good Morning @LtGovDelhi Sir! Delhi CM and 3 ministers are still waiting in your waiting room since yesterday evening. We hope today you'll get time from your busy schedule to resolve these three issues. Till then we are waiting...," Sisodia tweeted.

"Handed him this letter. L-G refuses to take action. L-G is under a constitutional duty to act. Left wid no option, we have politely told LG that we will not leave till he acts on all points. We have come out of his chamber n sitting in his waiting room (sic)," Kejriwal tweeted last evening after he along with his three ministers started their sit-in.

The AAP government and the bureaucracy have been at loggerheads since the alleged assault on Prakash by AAP MLAs at Kejriwal's residence on the intervening night of&nbsp;February 19-20.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The AAP government's demands include a direction to IAS officers to end their 'strike', action against those who have struck work for 'four months'

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues, who spent the night at the lieutenant governor's office, today dug in their heels with Health Minister Satyendar Jain beginning an indefinite hunger strike to press for their demands. The AAP government's demands include a direction to IAS officers to end their "strike", action against those who have struck work for "four months". It has also asked the L-G to approve the proposal for doorstep delivery of rations. Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, Development Minister Gopal Rai and Jain met Baijal at 5.30 pm yesterday and have since stayed on. After spending the entire night, Kejriwal released a video today and said that the AAP ministers had "no option" but to stage a sit-in at the LG's office as Lt Governor Anil Baijal was not paying heed to the Delhi government's demands "despite several requests". I am really appalled at LG’s stubborn refusal to end IAS strike and his justifications for ongoing strike. Wonder what are PMO’s instructions to him — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) June 12, 2018 × It was the first time in the history of Delhi that the chief minister and his cabinet colleagues spent the night at the L-G's office to press for their demands, sources said. The move drew criticism from the BJP's local unit who termed the sit-in as a "mockery of democracy". "Making mockery of Democracy, No Work only Drama (sic)," Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari said on Twitter. However, the AAP maintained that their fight will continue and they will not get "bogged down" till their demands are met. "Modi and LG are not allowing us to work for the betterment. LG is orchestrating the strike by the IAS officers," AAP leader Sanjay Singh said. The leader of opposition in the Delhi Assembly Vijender Gupta called Kejriwal's sit-in a way to "shirk work". "Delhi's maalik (owner) Kejriwal and company are protesting inside an air-conditioned room. Delicacies are being served to them from outside, while the city's reeling under a water crisis. They are only concerned about politics and not about people's issues," he said on Twitter. Meanwhile, Kejriwal, tweeted from the LG's office, "Satyender Jain starts indefinite fast". Jain began his fast from the L-G's office at 11 am. Last night, the chief minister, who is a diabetic, had to take insulin during the sit-in and got "specific food" from his home, the sources said. "My dear Delhiites, good morning. Struggle continues," Kejriwal tweeted at 6.27 am from the L-G's office. A number of AAP MLAs, party's leaders and workers have also camped near the L-G's office and the police have barricaded the area. In the video statement released by him, Kejriwal said that the AAP ministers have staged a sit-in for the people of Delhi so that their work does not get affected. According to the AAP government, officers have not been attending meetings with the ministers and not picking up their calls due to which the people's work was suffering. Officers have gone on a "partial strike" since the alleged assault on Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash on the intervening night of February 19-20, it said. In the video message, Kejriwal said that he and his ministers have been requesting the L-G since February 23 to issue directions to the IAS officers to end their "strike", but the Lt Governor was not paying heed to their demands. "Yesterday, we again met him (Baijal) and told him that he will go from here (L-G office) only after getting our demands fulfilled," he said. The chief minister said, "We are not sitting here for ourselves, but we are sitting here for you (Delhiites) and for schools, water, mohalla clinics so that the people of Delhi could get facilities." Kejriwal alleged that some of the officers told him that the L-G's office was "orchestrating" the "officers' strike" that is why Lt Governor does not want bureaucrats to end their strike. The L-G's office slammed Kejriwal's sit-in, saying it was one more "dharna without reason". A statement, issued by Baijal's office last evening, stated that the L-G was "threatened" to summon officers and issue directions to them to end their "strike" immediately. In the morning, a letter, signed by Kejriwal, Sisodia, Rai and Jain, was sent to Baijal, asking him to take all necessary steps to end the "strike" by the IAS officers, including issuing written orders, that all those officers who do not return to work will be proceeded against and "if necessary, ESMA may be invoked". However, the officers association has claimed that no officer is on strike and no work has been affected. "Good Morning @LtGovDelhi Sir! Delhi CM and 3 ministers are still waiting in your waiting room since yesterday evening. We hope today you'll get time from your busy schedule to resolve these three issues. Till then we are waiting...," Sisodia tweeted. "Handed him this letter. L-G refuses to take action. L-G is under a constitutional duty to act. Left wid no option, we have politely told LG that we will not leave till he acts on all points. We have come out of his chamber n sitting in his waiting room (sic)," Kejriwal tweeted last evening after he along with his three ministers started their sit-in. The AAP government and the bureaucracy have been at loggerheads since the alleged assault on Prakash by AAP MLAs at Kejriwal's residence on the intervening night of February 19-20.

'Dharna without reason' says L-G's office as Kejriwal continues sit-in

Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari said today that the sit-in by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues at the Lieutenant Governor's office was a "mockery of democracy".

Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues spent the night at Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal's office to press for their demands including a direction to IAS officers to end their "strike" and action against officers who have struck work for "four months".

Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, Labour Minister Gopal Rai and Health Minister Satyendar Jain met Baijal at&nbsp;5.30 pm&nbsp;yesterday and since then, they stayed out there.

Tiwari tweeted, "Making mockery of Democracy, No Work only Drama (sic)."

Vijender Gupta, the leader of opposition in the assembly, called Kejriwal's sit-in a way to "shirk work".

"Delhi's Maalik (owner) Kejriwal and company are protesting inside an air-conditioned room. Delicacies are being served to them from outside while the city's reeling under a water crisis. They are only concerned about politics and not about people's issues," Gupta posted on Twitter.

A number of AAP MLAs, party's leaders and workers have also camped near the L-G office, and the police have barricaded the area.

The L-G's office slammed Kejriwal's sit-in, saying it was another protest in the sequence of "dharna without reason".

Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues spent the night at Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal's office to press for their demands including a direction to IAS officers to end their 'strike' and action against officers who have struck work for 'four months'

Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari said today that the sit-in by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues at the Lieutenant Governor's office was a "mockery of democracy". Kejriwal and his cabinet colleagues spent the night at Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal's office to press for their demands including a direction to IAS officers to end their "strike" and action against officers who have struck work for "four months". Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, Labour Minister Gopal Rai and Health Minister Satyendar Jain met Baijal at 5.30 pm yesterday and since then, they stayed out there. Tiwari tweeted, "Making mockery of Democracy, No Work only Drama (sic)." Vijender Gupta, the leader of opposition in the assembly, called Kejriwal's sit-in a way to "shirk work". "Delhi's Maalik (owner) Kejriwal and company are protesting inside an air-conditioned room. Delicacies are being served to them from outside while the city's reeling under a water crisis. They are only concerned about politics and not about people's issues," Gupta posted on Twitter. A number of AAP MLAs, party's leaders and workers have also camped near the L-G office, and the police have barricaded the area. The L-G's office slammed Kejriwal's sit-in, saying it was another protest in the sequence of "dharna without reason".

Kejriwal's sit-in a mockery of democracy: Manoj Tiwari

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal pushed for complete statehood for the national capital today. Earlier in the day, Kejriwal noted that if before the 2019 Lok Sabha elections Delhi is granted the status of complete statehood, he will ensure that each and every electoral vote from the national capital goes to the Bhartiya Janata Party.&nbsp;

"I want to tell BJP that if before 2019 Elections, Delhi is granted statehood. we'll make sure that each and every vote from Delhi goes in your favour," Kejriwal noted at the state assembly today.

He further stated that Delhi will campaign for the BJP but the demand for complete statehood is not granted, "Delhi residents will put up boards saying 'BJP leave Delhi'," Kejriwal further added. According to reports, Vidhan Sabha has accepted Kejriwal's resolution.&nbsp;

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I want to tell BJP that if before 2019 Elections, Delhi is granted statehood. we'll make sure that each & every vote from Delhi goes in your favour, we'll campaign for you. If you don't do so Delhi residents will put up boards saying 'BJP leave Delhi': Delhi CM in Assembly <a href="https://t.co/C22uLu9PSf">pic.twitter.com/C22uLu9PSf</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1006138210760601602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party initiated the city-wide campaign for full statehood to Delhi on Sunday.&nbsp;

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Delhi Vidhan Sabha accepts the resolution on full statehood to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a>
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"Had a meeting wid ward level office bearers of AAP Delhi. Made strategy to take msg of full statehood to every house in Delhi," the chief minister tweeted out.

Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party initiated the city-wide campaign for full statehood to Delhi on Sunday

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal pushed for complete statehood for the national capital today. Earlier in the day, Kejriwal noted that if before the 2019 Lok Sabha elections Delhi is granted the status of complete statehood, he will ensure that each and every electoral vote from the national capital goes to the Bhartiya Janata Party. "I want to tell BJP that if before 2019 Elections, Delhi is granted statehood. we'll make sure that each and every vote from Delhi goes in your favour," Kejriwal noted at the state assembly today. He further stated that Delhi will campaign for the BJP but the demand for complete statehood is not granted, "Delhi residents will put up boards saying 'BJP leave Delhi'," Kejriwal further added. According to reports, Vidhan Sabha has accepted Kejriwal's resolution. I want to tell BJP that if before 2019 Elections, Delhi is granted statehood. we'll make sure that each & every vote from Delhi goes in your favour, we'll campaign for you. If you don't do so Delhi residents will put up boards saying 'BJP leave Delhi': Delhi CM in Assembly pic.twitter.com/C22uLu9PSf — ANI (@ANI) June 11, 2018 × Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party initiated the city-wide campaign for full statehood to Delhi on Sunday. Delhi Vidhan Sabha accepts the resolution on full statehood to #Delhi — ANI (@ANI) June 11, 2018 × "Had a meeting wid ward level office bearers of AAP Delhi. Made strategy to take msg of full statehood to every house in Delhi," the chief minister tweeted out.

Kejriwal pushes for full statehood for Delhi, Vidhan Sabha accepts resolution

It was a hot day in the national capital on Friday.

The maximum temperature was recorded at 40.5 degrees Celsius on Friday, normal for this time of the year.

It was a hot and humid morning in the city with the minimum temperature settling at 32 degrees Celsius, four notches above the season's normal.

Humidity level oscillated between 68 and 44 per cent.

The weatherman has forecast the possibility of light rains/thundershower, accompanied with squall on Saturday.

The skies will remain cloudy today with the minimum and maximum temperatures likely to settle around 31 and 39 degrees Celsius.

The maximum temperature on Thursday settled at 41.4 degrees Celsius, whereas the minimum temperature was 29.2 degrees Celsius.

The weatherman has forecast the possibility of light rains/thundershower, accompanied with squall on Saturday

It was a hot day in the national capital on Friday. The maximum temperature was recorded at 40.5 degrees Celsius on Friday, normal for this time of the year. It was a hot and humid morning in the city with the minimum temperature settling at 32 degrees Celsius, four notches above the season's normal. Humidity level oscillated between 68 and 44 per cent. The weatherman has forecast the possibility of light rains/thundershower, accompanied with squall on Saturday. The skies will remain cloudy today with the minimum and maximum temperatures likely to settle around 31 and 39 degrees Celsius. The maximum temperature on Thursday settled at 41.4 degrees Celsius, whereas the minimum temperature was 29.2 degrees Celsius.

Hot day in Delhi on Friday, rain likely today

A letter allegedly found in the house of one of the five persons arrested for "links" with the banned CPI (Maoist) talks about the ultras mulling "another Rajiv Gandhi incident", Pune police told a court on Thursday.

Police had arrested a Dalit activist Sudhir Dhawale on Wednesday, lawyer Surendra Gadling, activists Mahesh Raut and Shoma Sen and Rona Wilson from Mumbai, Nagpur and Delhi respectively in connection with 'Elgar Parishad' held here in December and the subsequent Bhima-Koregaon violence in the district.

All five were produced before the sessions court today which remanded them in police custody till&nbsp;June 14.

A letter found in Rona Wilson's house in Delhi talks about requirement of Rs 8 crore to procure M-4 rifle and four lakh rounds, and also about "another Rajiv Gandhi incident", prosecutor Ujjwala Pawar told the court.

"We are thinking along the lines of another Rajiv Gandhi incident. It sounds suicidal and there is a chance that we might fail but party must deliberate on our proposal," Pawar quoted the letter as saying.

Seeking their remand, Pawar told judge A S Bhailsare, that documents seized also showed that preparation for the Elgar Parishad -- which police believe was backed and funded by the Maoists -- was going on for two months.

Quoting another letter allegedly seized from Wilson's house, Pawar said, "The higher Committee has appreciated the endearing efforts of all urban comrades for the specific tasks given to them... There is a lot of ground to be covered. Comrade Mangalu and Deepu have been coordinating the Koregaon programme (for) last two months with Comrade Sudhir.

"They have been able to gather support from the larger sections of Dalits across the state," Pawar quoted the letter as saying.

Evidence also showed that funds were provided by the CPI (Maoist) to "comrade Sudhir" for Koregaon Bhima "task" and "Comrade Shoma and Surendra" were authorised to provide funds for future programs, the prosecutor said.

In one of the letters from one Prakash to Wilson, it is stated that the Bhima Koregaon agitation was losing its steam, and cadres should keep it alive, Pawar said.

An investigation also revealed that senior Maoist leaders were asking lower-rung cadres to target and recruit "intelligent" students from "renowned" institutes, she said.

The lawyers of the accused said the documents cited by the prosecution were fabricated, and the accused have been framed up.

One of the defence lawyers pointed out that while police invoked the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) against the five accused, the stringent law was not applied against right-wing activists Milind Ekbote and Sambhaji Bhide, who are accused of inciting anti-Dalit violence at Bhima Koregaon on&nbsp;January 1.

Earlier in the day, Joint Commissioner of Police Ravindra Kadam told reporters that a letter allegedly seized from Wilson's house had been sent by fugitive Maoist leader Milind Teltumbde.

When asked if it refers to the Congress and Bharip Bahujan Mahasangh president Prakash Ambedkar (as alleged by a BJP leader today), he said, "The letter has their references, but we are still investigating the details."

Documents seized from Gadling's house in Nagpur show his indirect connection to recent Maoist attacks in Gadchiroli in Maharashtra and in Chhattisgarh, Kadam said.

Dhawale was one of the organisers of Elgar Parishad, organised to commemorate 200 years of the Koregaon Bhima battle, on&nbsp;December 31.

Police had earlier claimed that Kabir Kala Manch activists made provocative speeches at the gathering, leading to violence at Bhima Koregaon the next day.

Police today also said that Teltumbde, comrade Prakash, comrade Manglu and comrade Deepu have been added as absconding accused in the present case.

A day before Kadam had claimed that some of the arrested activists were the "top brass of the Urban Maoists".&nbsp;

Dalits commemorate the 1818 battle of Bhima Koregaon where British forces, mostly consisting of Mahar soldiers (who were Dalits), defeated the forces of Peshwa, ending the Maratha rule. Some Hindu organisations had opposed the celebration this year.

A letter found in Rona Wilson's house in Delhi talks about requirement of Rs 8 crore to procure M-4 rifle and four lakh rounds

A letter allegedly found in the house of one of the five persons arrested for "links" with the banned CPI (Maoist) talks about the ultras mulling "another Rajiv Gandhi incident", Pune police told a court on Thursday. Police had arrested a Dalit activist Sudhir Dhawale on Wednesday, lawyer Surendra Gadling, activists Mahesh Raut and Shoma Sen and Rona Wilson from Mumbai, Nagpur and Delhi respectively in connection with 'Elgar Parishad' held here in December and the subsequent Bhima-Koregaon violence in the district. All five were produced before the sessions court today which remanded them in police custody till June 14. A letter found in Rona Wilson's house in Delhi talks about requirement of Rs 8 crore to procure M-4 rifle and four lakh rounds, and also about "another Rajiv Gandhi incident", prosecutor Ujjwala Pawar told the court. "We are thinking along the lines of another Rajiv Gandhi incident. It sounds suicidal and there is a chance that we might fail but party must deliberate on our proposal," Pawar quoted the letter as saying. Seeking their remand, Pawar told judge A S Bhailsare, that documents seized also showed that preparation for the Elgar Parishad -- which police believe was backed and funded by the Maoists -- was going on for two months. Quoting another letter allegedly seized from Wilson's house, Pawar said, "The higher Committee has appreciated the endearing efforts of all urban comrades for the specific tasks given to them... There is a lot of ground to be covered. Comrade Mangalu and Deepu have been coordinating the Koregaon programme (for) last two months with Comrade Sudhir. "They have been able to gather support from the larger sections of Dalits across the state," Pawar quoted the letter as saying. Evidence also showed that funds were provided by the CPI (Maoist) to "comrade Sudhir" for Koregaon Bhima "task" and "Comrade Shoma and Surendra" were authorised to provide funds for future programs, the prosecutor said. In one of the letters from one Prakash to Wilson, it is stated that the Bhima Koregaon agitation was losing its steam, and cadres should keep it alive, Pawar said. An investigation also revealed that senior Maoist leaders were asking lower-rung cadres to target and recruit "intelligent" students from "renowned" institutes, she said. The lawyers of the accused said the documents cited by the prosecution were fabricated, and the accused have been framed up. One of the defence lawyers pointed out that while police invoked the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) against the five accused, the stringent law was not applied against right-wing activists Milind Ekbote and Sambhaji Bhide, who are accused of inciting anti-Dalit violence at Bhima Koregaon on January 1. Earlier in the day, Joint Commissioner of Police Ravindra Kadam told reporters that a letter allegedly seized from Wilson's house had been sent by fugitive Maoist leader Milind Teltumbde. When asked if it refers to the Congress and Bharip Bahujan Mahasangh president Prakash Ambedkar (as alleged by a BJP leader today), he said, "The letter has their references, but we are still investigating the details." Documents seized from Gadling's house in Nagpur show his indirect connection to recent Maoist attacks in Gadchiroli in Maharashtra and in Chhattisgarh, Kadam said. Dhawale was one of the organisers of Elgar Parishad, organised to commemorate 200 years of the Koregaon Bhima battle, on December 31. Police had earlier claimed that Kabir Kala Manch activists made provocative speeches at the gathering, leading to violence at Bhima Koregaon the next day. Police today also said that Teltumbde, comrade Prakash, comrade Manglu and comrade Deepu have been added as absconding accused in the present case. A day before Kadam had claimed that some of the arrested activists were the "top brass of the Urban Maoists". Dalits commemorate the 1818 battle of Bhima Koregaon where British forces, mostly consisting of Mahar soldiers (who were Dalits), defeated the forces of Peshwa, ending the Maratha rule. Some Hindu organisations had opposed the celebration this year.

In letter, banned CPI (Maoist) talks of 'another Rajiv Gandhi incident'

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Wednesday alleged that Lt Governor Anil Baijal has not given appointment since Friday to him and two other ministers to discuss “important government” issues. In a series of tweets, Sisodia asked Baijal where was he busy if he cannot give time to discuss public issues despite “repeated requests”.

“Hon @LtGovDelhi sir! I have been requesting since Friday evening to your office for appointment. Myself along with Gopal Rai and Satyendra Jain wanted to discuss important govt issues with you. But you didn’t give any appointment…(sic),” Sisodia tweeted.

He further said, “@LtGovDelhi Sir! today when we requested you to meet us during CM-LG pre-scheduled weekly meeting, you turned down our this request also. “Sir where are you busy, if you can’t give time to 3 Delhi govt ministers to discuss Delhi public issues, despite repeated requests?”.

In another tweet, the deputy chief minister said that he along with Jain and Rai were waiting for the L-G’s response.

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Wednesday alleged that Lt Governor Anil Baijal has not given appointment since Friday to him and two other ministers to discuss “important government” issues. In a series of tweets, Sisodia asked Baijal where was he busy if he cannot give time to discuss public issues despite 'repeated requests'

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Wednesday alleged that Lt Governor Anil Baijal has not given appointment since Friday to him and two other ministers to discuss “important government” issues. In a series of tweets, Sisodia asked Baijal where was he busy if he cannot give time to discuss public issues despite “repeated requests”. “Hon @LtGovDelhi sir! I have been requesting since Friday evening to your office for appointment. Myself along with Gopal Rai and Satyendra Jain wanted to discuss important govt issues with you. But you didn’t give any appointment…(sic),” Sisodia tweeted. He further said, “@LtGovDelhi Sir! today when we requested you to meet us during CM-LG pre-scheduled weekly meeting, you turned down our this request also. “Sir where are you busy, if you can’t give time to 3 Delhi govt ministers to discuss Delhi public issues, despite repeated requests?”. In another tweet, the deputy chief minister said that he along with Jain and Rai were waiting for the L-G’s response.

Sisodia alleges Baijal not giving appointment to discuss 'important govt' issues

The mercury dropped by a few notches in the national capital with the maximum temperature settling at 36.6 degrees Celsius, four notches below the normal.

A dust storm was forecast to hit the city on Thursday.

It is likely to occur tonight, an official from the MeT Department said.

The maximum temperature recorded on Wednesday was 41.6 degrees Celsius, a notch above the normal.

The minimum temperature registered on Thursday&nbspwas 28.5 degrees Celsius.

Humidity recorded in the evening was 62 per cent.

"Generally cloudy sky with possibility of thundering development towards the night," the official said.

The temperature recorded at other weather stations in Palam was 38.5 degrees Celsius, Ayanagar (37.5), Lodhi Road (35.2) and Ridge (35.2).

A dust storm was forecast to hit the city on Thursday

The mercury dropped by a few notches in the national capital with the maximum temperature settling at 36.6 degrees Celsius, four notches below the normal. A dust storm was forecast to hit the city on Thursday. It is likely to occur tonight, an official from the MeT Department said. The maximum temperature recorded on Wednesday was 41.6 degrees Celsius, a notch above the normal. The minimum temperature registered on Thursday&nbspwas 28.5 degrees Celsius. Humidity recorded in the evening was 62 per cent. "Generally cloudy sky with possibility of thundering development towards the night," the official said. The temperature recorded at other weather stations in Palam was 38.5 degrees Celsius, Ayanagar (37.5), Lodhi Road (35.2) and Ridge (35.2).

Mercury dips in Delhi, max temp 36.6 degrees Celsius

Seven members of a family were killed and nine others injured in an accident on the Eastern Peripheral Expressway today when the driver of their pick-up van fell asleep at the wheel, police said.

The accident took place in Haryana's Palwal district when the family was on its way from Mohali to Mathura, Superintendent of Police (SP), Palwal, Waseem Akram said.

There was negligence on part of the driver, he said.

The driver was feeling sleepy and as he continued to drive, he fell asleep at the wheel, the SP added.

The driver, who survived, told the police that the accident took place at 4:30 am and a container truck could have hit the van.

Passengers sitting in the rear portion of the car were killed.

The injured are undergoing treatment at hospitals in Delhi, Mathura and Palwal.

The accident took place in Haryana's Palwal district when the family was on its way from Mohali to Mathura

Seven members of a family were killed and nine others injured in an accident on the Eastern Peripheral Expressway today when the driver of their pick-up van fell asleep at the wheel, police said. The accident took place in Haryana's Palwal district when the family was on its way from Mohali to Mathura, Superintendent of Police (SP), Palwal, Waseem Akram said. There was negligence on part of the driver, he said. The driver was feeling sleepy and as he continued to drive, he fell asleep at the wheel, the SP added. The driver, who survived, told the police that the accident took place at 4:30 am and a container truck could have hit the van. Passengers sitting in the rear portion of the car were killed. The injured are undergoing treatment at hospitals in Delhi, Mathura and Palwal.

7 of family killed, 9 injured in accident in Palwal

&nbsp;A day after a dust storm hit Delhi-NCR, the mercury slipped a few notches in the national capital, bringing some relief from the hot weather.

The minimum temperature was recorded at 26.6 degrees Celsius, one notch below the normal, the Meteorological (MeT) Department said.

A dust storm and thunderstorm has been forecast for today as well, a MeT official said.

The dust storm last night that hit Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon, and Ghaziabad, had brought the maximum temperature down from 42 degrees Celsius to 35 degrees Celsius.

The minimum temperature yesterday had settled at 30 degrees Celsius, three notches above the season's average.

The maximum temperature is likely to hover around 42 degrees Celsius later in the day.

The temperature recorded in other weather stations were -- Palam (25.4 degrees Celsius), Lodhi Road (24.7), Ayanagar (25) and Ridge (25).&nbsp;

The minimum temperature on Friday settled at 30 degrees Celsius, three notches above the season's average

A day after a dust storm hit Delhi-NCR, the mercury slipped a few notches in the national capital, bringing some relief from the hot weather. The minimum temperature was recorded at 26.6 degrees Celsius, one notch below the normal, the Meteorological (MeT) Department said. A dust storm and thunderstorm has been forecast for today as well, a MeT official said. The dust storm last night that hit Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon, and Ghaziabad, had brought the maximum temperature down from 42 degrees Celsius to 35 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature yesterday had settled at 30 degrees Celsius, three notches above the season's average. The maximum temperature is likely to hover around 42 degrees Celsius later in the day. The temperature recorded in other weather stations were -- Palam (25.4 degrees Celsius), Lodhi Road (24.7), Ayanagar (25) and Ridge (25).

Mercury dips in Delhi after dust storm

India today sought the help of United Kingdom for&nbsp;early extradition of liquor baron Vijay Mallya and former IPL honcho Lalit Modi and&nbsp;in locating diamantaire Nirav Modi&nbsp;during the third Indo-UK home affairs dialogue here, officials said.

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New Delhi also asked London not to allow the British territory to be used for anti-India activities by Kashmiri and Khalistani separatists.

"We have sought the help of the authorities in the UK in extradition of our wanted persons. The process is on and everyone knows because of our proactive action, Mallya had to go to a court in the UK," an official privy to the two-hour long meeting here.

While the Indian delegation was led by Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba, the UK team was led by&nbsp;Patsy Wilkinson.

Issues related to Mallya, Lalit Modi and Nirav Modi figured in the meeting, official said.

India also sought the UK's assistance in extradition of alleged cricket bookie Sanjiv Kapur and&nbsp;legal help in prosecution of 16 other alleged criminals.

Mallya, facing CBI and ED investigations, is accused of defrauding Indian banks of Rs 9,000 crore.&nbsp;

He left India on March 2, 2016, and was arrested by Scotland Yard next year on an extradition warrant. Out on bail, Mallya is fighting the extradition case in a UK court.

Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi, who left India early this year, are wanted by authorities for allegedly duping Punjab National Bank of Rs 13,000 crore.&nbsp;

Lalit Modi left India&nbsp;after being charged with money laundering.

During the dialogue, India also raised the visa problems faced by its nationals, including delays in visas to students, the high amount charged for UK visas and lengthy waiting period for tourist visas.&nbsp;

Matters related to the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty and strengthening of intelligence-sharing mechanism were also taken up, another official said.&nbsp;

The India-UK home affairs dialogue was set up during British Prime Minister Theresa May's visit to India in November 2016.&nbsp;

New Delhi also asked London not to allow the British territory to be used for anti-India activities by Kashmiri and Khalistani separatists.

India today sought the help of United Kingdom for early extradition of liquor baron Vijay Mallya and former IPL honcho Lalit Modi and in locating diamantaire Nirav Modi during the third Indo-UK home affairs dialogue here, officials said. × New Delhi also asked London not to allow the British territory to be used for anti-India activities by Kashmiri and Khalistani separatists. "We have sought the help of the authorities in the UK in extradition of our wanted persons. The process is on and everyone knows because of our proactive action, Mallya had to go to a court in the UK," an official privy to the two-hour long meeting here. While the Indian delegation was led by Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba, the UK team was led by Patsy Wilkinson. Issues related to Mallya, Lalit Modi and Nirav Modi figured in the meeting, official said. India also sought the UK's assistance in extradition of alleged cricket bookie Sanjiv Kapur and legal help in prosecution of 16 other alleged criminals. Mallya, facing CBI and ED investigations, is accused of defrauding Indian banks of Rs 9,000 crore. He left India on March 2, 2016, and was arrested by Scotland Yard next year on an extradition warrant. Out on bail, Mallya is fighting the extradition case in a UK court. Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi, who left India early this year, are wanted by authorities for allegedly duping Punjab National Bank of Rs 13,000 crore. Lalit Modi left India after being charged with money laundering. During the dialogue, India also raised the visa problems faced by its nationals, including delays in visas to students, the high amount charged for UK visas and lengthy waiting period for tourist visas. Matters related to the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty and strengthening of intelligence-sharing mechanism were also taken up, another official said. The India-UK home affairs dialogue was set up during British Prime Minister Theresa May's visit to India in November 2016.

India seeks UK help in extradition of Mallya, Lalit Modi

No respite for Delhiites from scorching heat as the temperature continued to soar on Monday at 44.2 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature was recorded at 26.3 degree Celsius.&nbsp;

The maximum temperature was recorded at 43.5 degrees Celsius, three notches above the season's average, while the minimum settled in at 27.2 degrees Celsius, normal for this time of the year, said a Meteorological Department official.

The humidity level has been swinging between 60 and 19 per cent, the official added.

"The maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to hover at 43 and 28 degrees Celsius respectively," the official said.

According to the MeT department, there is a possibility of overcast skies, along with the possibility of a dust storm and thunderstorm tomorrow evening.

The Meteorological Department had warned of heatwave conditions in North India last week.

On Saturday, along with Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, &nbsp;Karauli in Rajasthan and other areas like Sawai Madhavpur, Barmer, Churu, Pokharan, Jaisalmer and Tonk recorded the highest temperature of the season as the mercury hit 47 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

The IMD warned that the highest temperature could reach 48 degrees.

Khajuraho was the hottest at 47 degree Celsius while Damoh recorded 46.5, Shajapur was at 47.0 and Gwalior at 46.6.

 
&nbsp;

According to the MeT department, there is a possibility of overcast skies, along with the possibility of a dust storm and thunderstorm tomorrow evening

No respite for Delhiites from scorching heat as the temperature continued to soar on Monday at 44.2 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature was recorded at 26.3 degree Celsius. The maximum temperature was recorded at 43.5 degrees Celsius, three notches above the season's average, while the minimum settled in at 27.2 degrees Celsius, normal for this time of the year, said a Meteorological Department official. The humidity level has been swinging between 60 and 19 per cent, the official added. "The maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to hover at 43 and 28 degrees Celsius respectively," the official said. According to the MeT department, there is a possibility of overcast skies, along with the possibility of a dust storm and thunderstorm tomorrow evening. The Meteorological Department had warned of heatwave conditions in North India last week. On Saturday, along with Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, Karauli in Rajasthan and other areas like Sawai Madhavpur, Barmer, Churu, Pokharan, Jaisalmer and Tonk recorded the highest temperature of the season as the mercury hit 47 degrees Celsius. The IMD warned that the highest temperature could reach 48 degrees. Khajuraho was the hottest at 47 degree Celsius while Damoh recorded 46.5, Shajapur was at 47.0 and Gwalior at 46.6.

No respite for locals as heat wave conditions prevail in Delhi

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