Unknown assailants opened fire on a convoy in southern Lebanon, killing one Irish UN&nbsp;peacekeeper and injuring three others, according to Irish and Lebanese military sources on Thursday. Eight Irish United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) peacekeeping officials&nbsp;were in two armoured vehicles when they were shot upon while they were travelling from the village of Al-Aqbiya north toward Beirut on Tuesday night, according to a statement from the Irish Defence Forces.

One of the three injured troops, according to the Irish military, is in critical condition. The perpetrators were not named in the statement. One peacekeeper's death and three injuries were verified by UNIFIL, but no other information was provided.

“Our thoughts are also with the local civilians who may have been injured or frightened during the incident,” UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti said, adding that “details are sparse and conflicting.” Tenenti added that UNIFIL is coordinating with the military and trying to “determine exactly what happened.”

Also watch |&nbsp;Iran ousted from UN women's group; Russia and China oppose move

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The armoured truck carrying the peacekeepers had turned over while attempting to flee the site when it was fired upon, according to a person involved with the inquiry who spoke to the Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because they were not permitted to talk publicly about the case.

The act was condemned by Lebanon's Foreign Ministry, and a statement from the office of interim Prime Minister Najib Mikati asked for an inquiry.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-un-jaishankar-lays-out-indias-norms-for-multilateral-reforms-543141">At UN, Jaishankar reprimands Pak, China on terrorism, lays out India's 'NORMS' for reforms</a>

Residents of southern Lebanon often fight with UNIFIL soldiers. Irish peacekeepers were attacked in January in the southern village of Bint Jbeil by unidentified perpetrators, who also vandalised their cars and stole their belongings. The UN&nbsp;refuted the allegations made by the locals that they had taken photos of private properties.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Unknown assailants opened fire on a convoy in southern Lebanon, killing one Irish UN peacekeeper and injuring three others, according to Irish and Lebanese military sources on Thursday.

Unknown assailants opened fire on a convoy in southern Lebanon, killing one Irish UN peacekeeper and injuring three others, according to Irish and Lebanese military sources on Thursday. Eight Irish United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) peacekeeping officials were in two armoured vehicles when they were shot upon while they were travelling from the village of Al-Aqbiya north toward Beirut on Tuesday night, according to a statement from the Irish Defence Forces. One of the three injured troops, according to the Irish military, is in critical condition. The perpetrators were not named in the statement. One peacekeeper's death and three injuries were verified by UNIFIL, but no other information was provided. “Our thoughts are also with the local civilians who may have been injured or frightened during the incident,” UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti said, adding that “details are sparse and conflicting.” Tenenti added that UNIFIL is coordinating with the military and trying to “determine exactly what happened.” Also watch | Iran ousted from UN women's group; Russia and China oppose move The armoured truck carrying the peacekeepers had turned over while attempting to flee the site when it was fired upon, according to a person involved with the inquiry who spoke to the Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because they were not permitted to talk publicly about the case. The act was condemned by Lebanon's Foreign Ministry, and a statement from the office of interim Prime Minister Najib Mikati asked for an inquiry. Also read | At UN, Jaishankar reprimands Pak, China on terrorism, lays out India's 'NORMS' for reforms Residents of southern Lebanon often fight with UNIFIL soldiers. Irish peacekeepers were attacked in January in the southern village of Bint Jbeil by unidentified perpetrators, who also vandalised their cars and stole their belongings. The UN refuted the allegations made by the locals that they had taken photos of private properties. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Irish UN peacekeeper killed in southern Lebanon convoy ambush, three others injured

Pakistan's former prime minister has been shot during a rally. Reports say he is out of danger. Protests have erupted all over Pakistan. Priyanka Sharma brings you the details.

WION Fineprint | Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan shot

An unidentified gunman attacked former Pakistan PM Imran Khan. The local police have arrested him. Molly Gambhir and Anas Mallick bring you the latest updates.

Gravitas: The gunman who attacked Imran Khan

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan sustained bullet injuries on his leg during a rally near Zafar Ali Khan chowk in Wazirabad and has been shifted to a hospital in Lahore. According to the police, the suspect who opened fire on Khan's container has been arrested.

Firing at Imran Khan March: Former Pak PM Imran Khan sustains gunshots, rushed to Lahore

Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan has reportedly been injured as shots were fired near his ‘Azadi march’ container in Zafar Ali Khan chowk in Wazirabad, Pakistan. One person is reported to have been killed in the firing.

Firing at Imran Khan March: Former Pak PM Imran Khan and his aides injured, one person killed

Firing at Imran Khan March: Former Pak PM Imran Khan out of danger, shifted to Lahore

As a recession looms around the US economy, banking major Goldman Sachs is planning to fire hundreds of its employees as early as next week. Reportedly, the layoffs will mark the resumption of its annual practice which was halted the last two years due to the pandemic.

As a recession looms around the US economy, banking major Goldman Sachs is planning to fire hundreds of its employees as early as next week. Reportedly, the layoffs will mark the resumption of its annual practice which was halted the last two years due to the pandemic. According to data available, without any layoffs, the company's headcount had grown to more than 47,000 globally, at the end of June, which was a 15 per cent increase from the similar period last year. Experts believe that Goldman Sachs could clip as many as one to five per cent of its low-performance employees, come the next week. This will mean losing anywhere between 500 to 2,400 employees. WATCH | UK Inflation could top 20% next year: Goldman Sachs × It is not like the banking giant had not signalled this move. In July, during an earnings call, Chief Financial Officer Denis Coleman warned that the company might slow hiring and cut expenses as the economic outlook worsens. "Given the challenging operating environment, we are closely re-examining all of our forward spending and investment plans to ensure the best use of our resources," said Coleman. "Specifically, we have made the decision to slow hiring velocity and reduce certain professional fees going forward, though these actions will take some time to be reflected in our results." he further added. Coleman stated that the company had witnessed a 48 per cent slump in quarterly profit, forcing it to clock in the tough changes. It is pertinent to note that wobbly macroeconomic conditions, uncertain geopolitical climate due to the Russia-Ukraine war and sky-high inflation have contributed to the decision. In addition to reinstating the annual tradition of trimming down the employee count, Goldman Sachs is also expected to bring back its annual performance review policy for employees at the end of the year. Previously, other banking majors on Wall Street such as Citigroup, JPMorgan Chase & Co., Wells Fargo & Co. have also terminated the contracts of their employees to downsize. Read more: Goldman Sachs forecasts 30 per cent chance of US economy tipping into recession: Report (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Goldman Sachs to start firing employees from next week amid economic slowdown

A former employee of Better.com has filed a lawsuit against the company and its CEO, Vishal Garg, alleging that they made false claims to investors regarding the digital mortgage company's financial prospects and performance. Vishal Garg made headlines a year ago when he fired 900 employees over a Zoom call.

In her case, Sarah Pierce, a former executive vice-president of sales and operations at Better.com, claimed that Garg distorted the company's claims in order to persuade investors to proceed with an SPAC merger rather than withdraw owing to the company's financial situation.

Better.com's proposal to go public by merging with Aurora Acquisition Corp, a special-purpose acquisition company (SPAC), in a $7.7 billion deal was agreed upon last year but has yet to close. During the pandemic, SPAC acquisitions were one of the hottest investment trends as early-stage companies sought to go public.

According to the lawsuit, Pierce claims that she was fired from her job in February as a result of raising concerns about the sale. She's looking for monetary recompense.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/i-embarrassed-you-bettercom-ceo-apologises-for-laying-off-900-via-zoom-call-435001">'I embarrassed you': Better.com CEO apologises for laying off 900 via zoom call</a>

Garg is accused of directing the faltering lender's bid to merge with a special-purpose acquisition company, or SPAC, according to reports. Garg had accused some of the terminated staff of "stealing" from the company by being unproductive after his well publicised mass dismissal on a video conference call in December.

Pierce claims she pressed the company to issue a statement addressing Garg's "misinformation" about the fired employees and approached him personally, stating that she "would not assist his false narrative."

According to the lawsuit, Garg is also accused of misleading investors and directors by telling them that the company would return to profitability in the first quarter of 2022, despite "Pierce and other top management plainly saying that this conclusion was not conceivable." 
&nbsp;

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A former employee of Better.com has filed a lawsuit against the company and its CEO, Vishal Garg, alleging that they made false claims to investors regarding the digital mortgage company's financial prospects and performance.

A former employee of Better.com has filed a lawsuit against the company and its CEO, Vishal Garg, alleging that they made false claims to investors regarding the digital mortgage company's financial prospects and performance. Vishal Garg made headlines a year ago when he fired 900 employees over a Zoom call. In her case, Sarah Pierce, a former executive vice-president of sales and operations at Better.com, claimed that Garg distorted the company's claims in order to persuade investors to proceed with an SPAC merger rather than withdraw owing to the company's financial situation. Better.com's proposal to go public by merging with Aurora Acquisition Corp, a special-purpose acquisition company (SPAC), in a $7.7 billion deal was agreed upon last year but has yet to close. During the pandemic, SPAC acquisitions were one of the hottest investment trends as early-stage companies sought to go public. According to the lawsuit, Pierce claims that she was fired from her job in February as a result of raising concerns about the sale. She's looking for monetary recompense. Also read | 'I embarrassed you': Better.com CEO apologises for laying off 900 via zoom call Garg is accused of directing the faltering lender's bid to merge with a special-purpose acquisition company, or SPAC, according to reports. Garg had accused some of the terminated staff of "stealing" from the company by being unproductive after his well publicised mass dismissal on a video conference call in December. Pierce claims she pressed the company to issue a statement addressing Garg's "misinformation" about the fired employees and approached him personally, stating that she "would not assist his false narrative." According to the lawsuit, Garg is also accused of misleading investors and directors by telling them that the company would return to profitability in the first quarter of 2022, despite "Pierce and other top management plainly saying that this conclusion was not conceivable." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Better.com CEO fired 900 on Zoom call, now being sued for 'misleading investors'

In pics: Dreadful 40 minutes as 18-year-old gunman rampages Texas elementary school

The CEO of a digital mortgage firm recently became highly infamous due to his one Zoom call in which he fired 900 employees. Now, that leader is “taking time off”.<o:p></o:p>

Vishal Garg quickly became infamous on the internet due to his one video in which he got nearly 900 of his employees on a Zoom video call and fired all of them while accusing them of ‘stealing from the company'.<o:p></o:p>

"I come to you with not great news. The market has changed and we have to move with it in order to survive, so that hopefully, we can thrive and hopefully, deliver on our mission, " he said as he began the grim announcement. "If you’re on this call, you are part of the unlucky group that is being laid off."

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/i-embarrassed-you-bettercom-ceo-apologises-for-laying-off-900-via-zoom-call-435001">'I embarrassed you': Better.com CEO apologises for laying off 900 via zoom call</a></o:p>

However, now it is being reported that Garg is "taking time off effective immediately" while the company’s top layer takes time to reanalyse the leadership and culture. The company’s board of directors, too, have sent a letter to employees assuring that the company will take all needed and possible measures to bring the company out of any possible danger. <o:p></o:p>

An outside firm will also be brought in to "do a leadership and cultural assessment." The leadership has assured that the assessment of this third party will be "taken into account to build a long-term sustainable and positive culture at Better".8<o:p></o:p>

While Garg takes some time off "given the very regrettable events over the last week", CFO Kevin Ryan will step into the shoes of the CEO on an interim basis.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ceo-fires-900-people-on-zoom-call-434726">WATCH |</a></o:p>

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Meanwhile, the board of directors have requested the remaining employees to "refocus on our customers and support each other to continue to build a great company and a company we can be proud of".<o:p></o:p>

This announcement comes a few days after Garg sent a letter of apology to the remaining employees of Better.com. "I failed to show the appropriate amount of respect and appreciation for the individuals who were affected and for their contributions to Better. I own the decision to do the layoffs, but in communicating it I blundered the execution. In doing so, I embarrassed you," he wrote.<o:p></o:p>

The CEO of a digital mortgage firm recently became highly infamous due to his one Zoom call in which he fired 900 employees. Now, that leader is “taking time off”.

The CEO of a digital mortgage firm recently became highly infamous due to his one Zoom call in which he fired 900 employees. Now, that leader is “taking time off”. Vishal Garg quickly became infamous on the internet due to his one video in which he got nearly 900 of his employees on a Zoom video call and fired all of them while accusing them of ‘stealing from the company'. "I come to you with not great news. The market has changed and we have to move with it in order to survive, so that hopefully, we can thrive and hopefully, deliver on our mission, " he said as he began the grim announcement. "If you’re on this call, you are part of the unlucky group that is being laid off." Also read | 'I embarrassed you': Better.com CEO apologises for laying off 900 via zoom call However, now it is being reported that Garg is "taking time off effective immediately" while the company’s top layer takes time to reanalyse the leadership and culture. The company’s board of directors, too, have sent a letter to employees assuring that the company will take all needed and possible measures to bring the company out of any possible danger. An outside firm will also be brought in to "do a leadership and cultural assessment." The leadership has assured that the assessment of this third party will be "taken into account to build a long-term sustainable and positive culture at Better".8 While Garg takes some time off "given the very regrettable events over the last week", CFO Kevin Ryan will step into the shoes of the CEO on an interim basis. WATCH | Meanwhile, the board of directors have requested the remaining employees to "refocus on our customers and support each other to continue to build a great company and a company we can be proud of". This announcement comes a few days after Garg sent a letter of apology to the remaining employees of Better.com. "I failed to show the appropriate amount of respect and appreciation for the individuals who were affected and for their contributions to Better. I own the decision to do the layoffs, but in communicating it I blundered the execution. In doing so, I embarrassed you," he wrote.

After firing 900 employees, CEO of Better.com takes 'time off'

After coming under fire for insulting 900 people he had just laid off, Better.com CEO Vishal Garg sent an email to the company's remaining employees on Tuesday afternoon.&nbsp;

The CEO of a digital mortgage lender based in the United States has apologised to existing staff for how he handled the situation.&nbsp;

"I failed to show the appropriate amount of respect and appreciation for the individuals who were affected and for their contributions to Better. I own the decision to do the layoffs, but in communicating it I blundered the execution. In doing so, I embarrassed you," Garg said in the letter to current employees.

An employee shared a video of Garg's Zoom conversation on December 1st, during which he fired around 900 SoftBank-backed staff.

The dismissals were attributed to market conditions and a drop in the company's performance, according to the CEO.

Since the firings, the entrepreneur, who is also the founder of Better.com, has been in the middle of a storm, particularly owing to the manner in which they were announced. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ceo-abruptly-terminates-over-900-employees-in-us-and-india-over-zoom-call-434583">Watch | CEO abruptly terminates over 900 employees in US and India over Zoom call</a> 
 
The dismissed employees made up 9% of the company's entire staff and were dispersed across the US and India.&nbsp;

According to Bloomberg, the mortgage lender also pushed back its public offering through a merger with Aurora Acquisition, a blank-check provider, after modifying the transaction a day before it laid off some of its employees.

According to Bloomberg, the corporation will seek additional regulatory permission after amending the merger conditions.

This will delay the transaction's completion, which the firms had previously stated would take place in the fourth quarter.&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)

After coming under fire for insulting 900 people he had just laid off, Better.com CEO Vishal Garg sent an email to the company's remaining employees on Tuesday afternoon.

After coming under fire for insulting 900 people he had just laid off, Better.com CEO Vishal Garg sent an email to the company's remaining employees on Tuesday afternoon. The CEO of a digital mortgage lender based in the United States has apologised to existing staff for how he handled the situation. "I failed to show the appropriate amount of respect and appreciation for the individuals who were affected and for their contributions to Better. I own the decision to do the layoffs, but in communicating it I blundered the execution. In doing so, I embarrassed you," Garg said in the letter to current employees. An employee shared a video of Garg's Zoom conversation on December 1st, during which he fired around 900 SoftBank-backed staff. The dismissals were attributed to market conditions and a drop in the company's performance, according to the CEO. Since the firings, the entrepreneur, who is also the founder of Better.com, has been in the middle of a storm, particularly owing to the manner in which they were announced. Watch | CEO abruptly terminates over 900 employees in US and India over Zoom call The dismissed employees made up 9% of the company's entire staff and were dispersed across the US and India. According to Bloomberg, the mortgage lender also pushed back its public offering through a merger with Aurora Acquisition, a blank-check provider, after modifying the transaction a day before it laid off some of its employees. According to Bloomberg, the corporation will seek additional regulatory permission after amending the merger conditions. This will delay the transaction's completion, which the firms had previously stated would take place in the fourth quarter. (With inputs from agencies)

'I embarrassed you': Better.com CEO apologises for laying off 900 via zoom call

Days after the US-based mortgage come, Better.com, unceremoniously fired 900 people over Zoom call, three top executives have tendered their resignation.

Three of the companies’ top communications executives include Tanya Gillogley, head of public relations, Melanie Hahn, head of public relations, and Patrick Lenihan, VP of communications, according to multiple media reports.

The resignations come in response to the last week’s mass layoff, when CEO Vishal Garg abruptly terminated about 9% of the employees, which comprised of staff from US and India.

Garg received severe backlash over his move, following which he wrote an apology for the current employees of the SoftBank-backed mortgage lender firm.

Also see | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ceo-abruptly-terminates-over-900-employees-in-us-and-india-over-zoom-call-434583">CEO abruptly terminates over 900 employees in US and India over Zoom call</a>

“I failed to show the appropriate amount of respect and appreciation for the individuals who were affected and for their contributions to Better,” the letter reads.

“I own the decision to do the layoffs, but in communicating it I blundered the execution. In doing so, I embarrassed you.”

During the Zoom call, Garg had cited market efficiency, performance and productivity as the reason behind the firings.

Fortune later reported that Garg accused laid-off employees of “stealing” from colleagues and clients by being unproductive and working two hours a day.

“If you’re on this call, you are part of the unlucky group that is being laid off," Garg,&nbsp;who founded Better.com in 2016, said on the call on Monday.

“Your employment here is terminated effective immediately,” he said, adding that employees could expect an email from HR detailing benefits and severance.

(With inputs from agencies)

Days after the US-based mortgage come, Better.com, unceremoniously fired 900 people over Zoom call, three top executives have tendered their resignation. Three of the companies’ top communications executives include Tanya Gillogley, head of public relations, Melanie Hahn, head of public relations, and Patrick Lenihan, VP of communications, according to multiple media reports.

Days after the US-based mortgage come, Better.com, unceremoniously fired 900 people over Zoom call, three top executives have tendered their resignation. Three of the companies’ top communications executives include Tanya Gillogley, head of public relations, Melanie Hahn, head of public relations, and Patrick Lenihan, VP of communications, according to multiple media reports. The resignations come in response to the last week’s mass layoff, when CEO Vishal Garg abruptly terminated about 9% of the employees, which comprised of staff from US and India. Garg received severe backlash over his move, following which he wrote an apology for the current employees of the SoftBank-backed mortgage lender firm. Also see | CEO abruptly terminates over 900 employees in US and India over Zoom call “I failed to show the appropriate amount of respect and appreciation for the individuals who were affected and for their contributions to Better,” the letter reads. “I own the decision to do the layoffs, but in communicating it I blundered the execution. In doing so, I embarrassed you.” During the Zoom call, Garg had cited market efficiency, performance and productivity as the reason behind the firings. Fortune later reported that Garg accused laid-off employees of “stealing” from colleagues and clients by being unproductive and working two hours a day. “If you’re on this call, you are part of the unlucky group that is being laid off," Garg, who founded Better.com in 2016, said on the call on Monday. “Your employment here is terminated effective immediately,” he said, adding that employees could expect an email from HR detailing benefits and severance. (With inputs from agencies)

3 top executives of Better.com resign after CEO lays off 900 people over Zoom call

Tensions are high in India's north-eastern state of Nagaland. The tragic death of at least 14 civilians has led to outrage. Reportedly, a unit of the Indian Army shot down civilians by mistake. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Why tensions are high in India's Nagaland

India’s Union home minister Amit Shah on Monday said that the Nagaland firing incident, in which security forces opened fire on civilians killing 14 and injuring 11, was a case of “mistaken identity”.

In a statement in Lok Sabha, Shah, while expressing regret, said the probe will be completed within a month and asserted that all agencies must ensure such happenings do not recur while taking action against insurgents.

He said that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to probe the matter.

He further said that the government is keeping a close watch on the evolving situation and necessary measures are being taken to ensure peace and tranquillity in the region.

The state authorities, as a precautionary measure, have imposed prohibitory orders in the affected areas, he informed the House.

Shah offered deepest condolences to the families of those killed in the case of mistaken identity on December 4 and subsequent episodes.

"The Government of India sincerely regrets this unfortunate incident in Nagaland and offers its deepest condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives," the home minister said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/13-civilians-gunned-down-in-nagaland-by-security-forces-1-soldier-killed-in-rioting-434403">13 civilians gunned down in Nagaland by security forces; 1 soldier killed in rioting</a>

Narrating the sequence of events, Shah said the Army received information on the movement of insurgents in Nagaland's Mon and '21 Para Commando' unit laid an ambush.

A vehicle was signalled to stop but it tried to speed away. Suspecting the presence of insurgents in the vehicle, the security personnel opened fire, he said.

Six out of eight occupants of the vehicle died in the firing by security forces, Shah said, adding that later, it was found to be "a case of mistaken identity".

Two persons who sustained injuries were evacuated to the medical facilities by the Army personnel.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-inks-ceasefire-agreement-with-another-insurgent-group-in-northeastern-state-of-nagaland-411690">India inks ceasefire agreement with another insurgent group in northeastern state of Nagaland</a>

He said local people, on getting news of the firing, surrounded and attacked the troops and one soldier was killed in the violence while several others were injured.

Shah said that in self-defence and to disperse the crowd, the troops had to open fire in which seven more civilians were killed.

He said that on Sunday evening, an agitated crowd targeted Assam Rifles company operating base and forces had to open fire in which one civilian was killed.

It has been decided that all agencies must ensure such incidents do not happen in the future during action against insurgents, the minister said.

Quoting an Army statement, Shah said the cause of the unfortunate loss of lives is being investigated at the highest level and appropriate action will be taken as per law.

India’s Union home minister Amit Shah on Monday said that the Nagaland firing incident, in which security forces opened fire on civilians killing 14 and injuring 11, was a case of “mistaken identity”.

India’s Union home minister Amit Shah on Monday said that the Nagaland firing incident, in which security forces opened fire on civilians killing 14 and injuring 11, was a case of “mistaken identity”. In a statement in Lok Sabha, Shah, while expressing regret, said the probe will be completed within a month and asserted that all agencies must ensure such happenings do not recur while taking action against insurgents. He said that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to probe the matter. He further said that the government is keeping a close watch on the evolving situation and necessary measures are being taken to ensure peace and tranquillity in the region. The state authorities, as a precautionary measure, have imposed prohibitory orders in the affected areas, he informed the House. Shah offered deepest condolences to the families of those killed in the case of mistaken identity on December 4 and subsequent episodes. "The Government of India sincerely regrets this unfortunate incident in Nagaland and offers its deepest condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives," the home minister said. Also read | 13 civilians gunned down in Nagaland by security forces; 1 soldier killed in rioting Narrating the sequence of events, Shah said the Army received information on the movement of insurgents in Nagaland's Mon and '21 Para Commando' unit laid an ambush. A vehicle was signalled to stop but it tried to speed away. Suspecting the presence of insurgents in the vehicle, the security personnel opened fire, he said. Six out of eight occupants of the vehicle died in the firing by security forces, Shah said, adding that later, it was found to be "a case of mistaken identity". Two persons who sustained injuries were evacuated to the medical facilities by the Army personnel. Also read | India inks ceasefire agreement with another insurgent group in northeastern state of Nagaland He said local people, on getting news of the firing, surrounded and attacked the troops and one soldier was killed in the violence while several others were injured. Shah said that in self-defence and to disperse the crowd, the troops had to open fire in which seven more civilians were killed. He said that on Sunday evening, an agitated crowd targeted Assam Rifles company operating base and forces had to open fire in which one civilian was killed. It has been decided that all agencies must ensure such incidents do not happen in the future during action against insurgents, the minister said. Quoting an Army statement, Shah said the cause of the unfortunate loss of lives is being investigated at the highest level and appropriate action will be taken as per law.

Indian govt says Nagaland firing incident case of ‘mistaken identity', expresses regret

More than 900 employees in the US and India of a mortgage lender company were fired abruptly by the CEO during a three-minute Zoom call.

According to CNN, Better.com CEO Vishal Garg made the announcement on Wednesday saying that about 9 per cent of its workforce have been laid off.

“I come to you with not great news. The market has changed and we have to move with it in order to survive, so that hopefully, we can thrive and hopefully, deliver on our mission,” he said as he began the grim announcement.

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He blamed market efficiency, performance and productivity as the reason behind the firings,

“If you’re on this call, you are part of the unlucky group that is being laid off," Garg,&nbsp;who founded Better.com in 2016, said on the call.

“Your employment here is terminated effective immediately,” he said, adding that employees could expect an email from HR detailing benefits and severance.

Around 15 per cent of employees of the New York-headquartered company have lost their jobs as part of the cost-cutting exercise.

Garg said that this is the second round of lay-offs Garg has undertaken.

A video of the Zoom call has been widely shared on the internet.

“Having to conduct layoffs is gut-wrenching, especially this time of year," CFO Kevin Ryan said in a statement to CNN Business.

“However, a fortress balance sheet and a reduced and focused workforce together set us up to play offence going into a radically evolving homeownership market.”

(With inputs from agencies)

More than 900 employees in the US and India of a mortgage lender company were fired abruptly by the CEO during a three-minute Zoom call. According to CNN, Better.

More than 900 employees in the US and India of a mortgage lender company were fired abruptly by the CEO during a three-minute Zoom call. According to CNN, Better.com CEO Vishal Garg made the announcement on Wednesday saying that about 9 per cent of its workforce have been laid off. “I come to you with not great news. The market has changed and we have to move with it in order to survive, so that hopefully, we can thrive and hopefully, deliver on our mission,” he said as he began the grim announcement. × He blamed market efficiency, performance and productivity as the reason behind the firings, “If you’re on this call, you are part of the unlucky group that is being laid off," Garg, who founded Better.com in 2016, said on the call. “Your employment here is terminated effective immediately,” he said, adding that employees could expect an email from HR detailing benefits and severance. Around 15 per cent of employees of the New York-headquartered company have lost their jobs as part of the cost-cutting exercise. Garg said that this is the second round of lay-offs Garg has undertaken. A video of the Zoom call has been widely shared on the internet. “Having to conduct layoffs is gut-wrenching, especially this time of year," CFO Kevin Ryan said in a statement to CNN Business. “However, a fortress balance sheet and a reduced and focused workforce together set us up to play offence going into a radically evolving homeownership market.” (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | CEO abruptly terminates over 900 employees in US and India over Zoom call

Militant fire from across the border in Afghanistan killed two Pakistani soldiers on Sunday, the army said, in the first such attack since the Taliban took over Kabul ten days ago.

The army said it retaliated and killed two or three attackers, a claim not verifiable because the tribal districts along the Afghan border are off limits to journalists and human rights organisations.

The incident in Pakistan`s Bajaur district is the first of its kind reported since the Taliban took over Kabul on August 15.

Bajaur is one of several lawless tribal regions along the Afghan border which have long sheltered militants, including an Islamist militant umbrella organisation called Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

The TTP, which renewed an allegiance to the Afghan Taliban after the fall of Kabul, has recently stepped up its campaign against the Pakistani army.

The army did not say which group it thought was responsible for Sunday`s attack, but has long held that TTP leaders and fighters are sheltering in Afghanistan after fleeing the tribal districts during military operations targeting militants.

"As per intelligence reports, due to fire of Pakistan army troops, 2-3 terrorists got killed and 3-4 terrorists got injured," the military said in a statement.

The statement condemned the "the use of Afghan soil by terrorists for activities against Pakistan and expects that existing and future set-up in Afghanistan will not allow such activities against Pakistan."

Pakistani Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad has said that Islamabad expected the Afghan Taliban to ensure that the anti-Pakistan Taliban did not use Afghan soil as a launch pad for attacks inside Pakistan.

Islamabad accuses the TTP of having used Afghanistan as a base from where to carry a suicide attack in northern Pakistan in July that killed nine Chinese workers and four Pakistanis.

"We expected that the way things were unfolding in Afghanistan, the violence can spill over in Pakistan," Pakistan army spokesman Major General Babar Iftikhar told a news conference on Friday.

The Afghan Taliban`s spokesman Zabihullah Muhaid said in his maiden news conference that the Islamist militants wouldn`t allow any group to use Afghan soil against anyone.

Militant fire from across the border in Afghanistan killed two Pakistani soldiers on Sunday, the army said, in the first such attack since the Taliban took over Kabul ten days ago.

Militant fire from across the border in Afghanistan killed two Pakistani soldiers on Sunday, the army said, in the first such attack since the Taliban took over Kabul ten days ago. The army said it retaliated and killed two or three attackers, a claim not verifiable because the tribal districts along the Afghan border are off limits to journalists and human rights organisations. The incident in Pakistan`s Bajaur district is the first of its kind reported since the Taliban took over Kabul on August 15. Bajaur is one of several lawless tribal regions along the Afghan border which have long sheltered militants, including an Islamist militant umbrella organisation called Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The TTP, which renewed an allegiance to the Afghan Taliban after the fall of Kabul, has recently stepped up its campaign against the Pakistani army. The army did not say which group it thought was responsible for Sunday`s attack, but has long held that TTP leaders and fighters are sheltering in Afghanistan after fleeing the tribal districts during military operations targeting militants. "As per intelligence reports, due to fire of Pakistan army troops, 2-3 terrorists got killed and 3-4 terrorists got injured," the military said in a statement. The statement condemned the "the use of Afghan soil by terrorists for activities against Pakistan and expects that existing and future set-up in Afghanistan will not allow such activities against Pakistan." Pakistani Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad has said that Islamabad expected the Afghan Taliban to ensure that the anti-Pakistan Taliban did not use Afghan soil as a launch pad for attacks inside Pakistan. Islamabad accuses the TTP of having used Afghanistan as a base from where to carry a suicide attack in northern Pakistan in July that killed nine Chinese workers and four Pakistanis. "We expected that the way things were unfolding in Afghanistan, the violence can spill over in Pakistan," Pakistan army spokesman Major General Babar Iftikhar told a news conference on Friday. The Afghan Taliban`s spokesman Zabihullah Muhaid said in his maiden news conference that the Islamist militants wouldn`t allow any group to use Afghan soil against anyone.

Militant fire across Afghan border kills two Pakistani soldiers, says army

A police constable in Uttar Pradesh's Firozabad had a narrow escape from death on Saturday after a bullet fired during a protest here pierced through his bulletproof vest and got stuck in his wallet. 
 
Constable Vijendra Kumar says that he feels like he has been granted a second life. 
 
"I was on duty in the Nalband area when some of the protestors opened fire at us. The bullet pierced my bullet vest and got stuck in the wallet that was kept in the pocket of my jacket. There were 4 ATM cards and some pictures of Shiv Ji and Sai Baba. It feels like this is my second life," Kumar said. 
 
According to police, the law and order situation in the region is under control now. 
 
"This goes to show that Uttar Pradesh police is committed to the service of the public and that the safety and security of the people is our first priority. The situation is under control now and appropriate forces have been deployed in sensitive areas," a senior police officer said. 
 
So far, fifteen persons have died during protests against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-protests-internet-services-to-remain-suspended-in-ghaziabad-till-saturday-morning-269411">Citizenship (Amendment) Act</a>, 2019, in Uttar Pradesh. At least 263 police personnel were injured in the protests, of which 57 personnel have received firearm injuries. 
 
State Inspector General (Law and Order) Praveen Kumar has said that 705 persons have been arrested in connection with the violent protests while 4,500 others were released after preventive detention. 
 
Kumar said that a large number of illegal weapons were used in the violence during protests and a total of 405 bullet shells of the country-made pistol were recovered from protest sites. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/anti-caa-protests-a-ticking-ignorance-bomb-and-a-sheer-vandalism-with-truth-269453">Clashes also took place during protests</a> in different districts of Uttar Pradesh including Bahraich, Bareilly, Varanasi, Bhadohi, Gorakhpur and Sambhal on Friday.

A police constable in Uttar Pradesh's Firozabad had a narrow escape from death on Saturday after a bullet fired during a protest here pierced through his bulletproof vest and got stuck in his wallet.

A police constable in Uttar Pradesh's Firozabad had a narrow escape from death on Saturday after a bullet fired during a protest here pierced through his bulletproof vest and got stuck in his wallet. Constable Vijendra Kumar says that he feels like he has been granted a second life. "I was on duty in the Nalband area when some of the protestors opened fire at us. The bullet pierced my bullet vest and got stuck in the wallet that was kept in the pocket of my jacket. There were 4 ATM cards and some pictures of Shiv Ji and Sai Baba. It feels like this is my second life," Kumar said. According to police, the law and order situation in the region is under control now. "This goes to show that Uttar Pradesh police is committed to the service of the public and that the safety and security of the people is our first priority. The situation is under control now and appropriate forces have been deployed in sensitive areas," a senior police officer said. So far, fifteen persons have died during protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, in Uttar Pradesh. At least 263 police personnel were injured in the protests, of which 57 personnel have received firearm injuries. State Inspector General (Law and Order) Praveen Kumar has said that 705 persons have been arrested in connection with the violent protests while 4,500 others were released after preventive detention. Kumar said that a large number of illegal weapons were used in the violence during protests and a total of 405 bullet shells of the country-made pistol were recovered from protest sites. Clashes also took place during protests in different districts of Uttar Pradesh including Bahraich, Bareilly, Varanasi, Bhadohi, Gorakhpur and Sambhal on Friday.

CAA protests: Bullet pierces through cop's vest, gets stuck in wallet

Argentine workers fired without just cause over the next 180 days will be paid double the normal exit package under a decree announced over the weekend, as the new government breaks with the pro-business stance of the previous administration.

The "Decree of Need and Urgency" says in cases of dismissal without just cause during the term of the decree, "the affected workers will have the right to receive double the corresponding compensation in accordance with current legislation".

Peronist President Alberto Fernandez was sworn in on Tuesday, promising an end to outgoing leader Mauricio Macri's pro-business policies, as inflation roars at above 50%, poverty increases and economic growth sputters.

The new economy minister on Wednesday said Macri's fiscal tightening measures had failed, and that the new administration would emphasize economic growth over the deficit reduction program that was at the heart of Macri's push to re-integrate Argentina with the international financial markets.

Argentina's unemployment rate rose to 10.6% in the second quarter of 2019, a percentage point higher than a year earlier, the government said in a press release announcing the decree.

Young people were especially hard hit, it said, with young women suffering a jobless rate of 24%.

"By decision of President Alberto Fernandez, the public emergency in occupational matters is declared in view of the need to stop the aggravation of the labor crisis," the press release announcing the decree said.

Argentine workers fired without just cause over the next 180 days will be paid double the normal exit package under a decree announced over the weekend, as the new government breaks with the pro-business stance of the previous administration.

Argentine workers fired without just cause over the next 180 days will be paid double the normal exit package under a decree announced over the weekend, as the new government breaks with the pro-business stance of the previous administration. The "Decree of Need and Urgency" says in cases of dismissal without just cause during the term of the decree, "the affected workers will have the right to receive double the corresponding compensation in accordance with current legislation". Peronist President Alberto Fernandez was sworn in on Tuesday, promising an end to outgoing leader Mauricio Macri's pro-business policies, as inflation roars at above 50%, poverty increases and economic growth sputters. The new economy minister on Wednesday said Macri's fiscal tightening measures had failed, and that the new administration would emphasize economic growth over the deficit reduction program that was at the heart of Macri's push to re-integrate Argentina with the international financial markets. Argentina's unemployment rate rose to 10.6% in the second quarter of 2019, a percentage point higher than a year earlier, the government said in a press release announcing the decree. Young people were especially hard hit, it said, with young women suffering a jobless rate of 24%. "By decision of President Alberto Fernandez, the public emergency in occupational matters is declared in view of the need to stop the aggravation of the labor crisis," the press release announcing the decree said.

Argentina issues decree making it harder for businesses to fire workers

Four people were killed and two others critically wounded in a shooting at a Chicago hospital on Monday, and among the dead was the gunman who started shooting in the parking lot and then burst into the medical facility and opened fire, according to local media.

Chicago police officer has died after shooting at the hospital.

Police cars and ambulances swarmed the hospital after the shooting.

ABC7 Chicago and CBS Chicago, citing sources, reported that two people died in the shooting, including the gunman, and that two other people were wounded.

Police searched the hospital, said Anthony Guglielmi, a Chicago Police Department spokesman. The hospital said on Twitter the shooting was over and patients were safe.

Eyewitnesses told reporters the shooting began in the parking lot before moving into a clinic area inside the hospital.

Police have not commented on a possible motive for the shooting.

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and police Superintendent Eddie Johnson were on their way to University of Chicago hospital, where the wounded police officer was being treated, according to local media.

Sue Jimenez, the manager of Kozy's Cyclery bike shop near the hospital, said she heard multiple gunshots separated by pauses. At one point, she heard five shots in quick succession, she said, but the shooting stopped after police arrived.

Four people were killed and two others critically wounded in a shooting at a Chicago hospital on Monday, and among the dead was the gunman who started shooting in the parking lot and then burst into the medical facility and opened fire, according to local media.

Four people were killed and two others critically wounded in a shooting at a Chicago hospital on Monday, and among the dead was the gunman who started shooting in the parking lot and then burst into the medical facility and opened fire, according to local media. Chicago police officer has died after shooting at the hospital. Police cars and ambulances swarmed the hospital after the shooting. ABC7 Chicago and CBS Chicago, citing sources, reported that two people died in the shooting, including the gunman, and that two other people were wounded. Police searched the hospital, said Anthony Guglielmi, a Chicago Police Department spokesman. The hospital said on Twitter the shooting was over and patients were safe. Eyewitnesses told reporters the shooting began in the parking lot before moving into a clinic area inside the hospital. Police have not commented on a possible motive for the shooting. Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and police Superintendent Eddie Johnson were on their way to University of Chicago hospital, where the wounded police officer was being treated, according to local media. Sue Jimenez, the manager of Kozy's Cyclery bike shop near the hospital, said she heard multiple gunshots separated by pauses. At one point, she heard five shots in quick succession, she said, but the shooting stopped after police arrived.

Video: Four killed, including gunman and police officer, in shooting at Chicago hospital

A Rohingya refugee boy was shot and injured on the Bangladesh-Myanmar border as multiple rounds were fired from a Myanmar border security post, an official said Sunday.

Nurul Islam, 15, was grazing cows when 17 rounds were fired from Myanmar's Rymongkhali security post, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) spokesman Major Iqbal Ahmed said.

"Islam was lucky as a bullet scratched his elbow," he told AFP, adding the boy lives in Balukhali refugee camp in Bangladesh's southeastern Cox's Bazar district.

The BGB would send a protest letter to their Myanmar counterparts, the Border Guard Police, over the shooting, he said.

A local Bangladeshi official, speaking on condition on anonymity, said the incident might be aimed at delaying the repatriation of Rohingya refugees, set to begin in next week.

"Otherwise, why would they fire at the Bangladeshi ground? It is to create pressure on the refugees and the UN," he said.

Bangladesh and Myanmar officials last week said some 2,000 Rohingya refugees would return to their homeland in Myanmar's western Rakhine state as part of a repatriation deal.

More than 720,000 of Myanmar's stateless Rohingya fled a brutal military crackdown in August last year, taking shelter in crowded camps in Bangladesh and bringing with them harrowing tales of rape, murder and arson in a military crackdown.

Investigators have said senior Myanmar military officials should be prosecuted for genocide in Rakhine, but the country has rejected these calls, insisting it was defending itself against militants.

Myanmar and Bangladesh announced a large-scale repatriation plan in November 2017.

But the process hit bureaucratic hurdles almost immediately and failed to take off, as both sides blamed the other for the delay and rights group warned returning the Rohingya to Myanmar would condemn them to further reprisals.

A Rohingya refugee boy was shot and injured on the Bangladesh-Myanmar border as multiple rounds were fired from a Myanmar border security post, an official said Sunday.

A Rohingya refugee boy was shot and injured on the Bangladesh-Myanmar border as multiple rounds were fired from a Myanmar border security post, an official said Sunday. Nurul Islam, 15, was grazing cows when 17 rounds were fired from Myanmar's Rymongkhali security post, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) spokesman Major Iqbal Ahmed said. "Islam was lucky as a bullet scratched his elbow," he told AFP, adding the boy lives in Balukhali refugee camp in Bangladesh's southeastern Cox's Bazar district. The BGB would send a protest letter to their Myanmar counterparts, the Border Guard Police, over the shooting, he said. A local Bangladeshi official, speaking on condition on anonymity, said the incident might be aimed at delaying the repatriation of Rohingya refugees, set to begin in next week. "Otherwise, why would they fire at the Bangladeshi ground? It is to create pressure on the refugees and the UN," he said. Bangladesh and Myanmar officials last week said some 2,000 Rohingya refugees would return to their homeland in Myanmar's western Rakhine state as part of a repatriation deal. More than 720,000 of Myanmar's stateless Rohingya fled a brutal military crackdown in August last year, taking shelter in crowded camps in Bangladesh and bringing with them harrowing tales of rape, murder and arson in a military crackdown. Investigators have said senior Myanmar military officials should be prosecuted for genocide in Rakhine, but the country has rejected these calls, insisting it was defending itself against militants. Myanmar and Bangladesh announced a large-scale repatriation plan in November 2017. But the process hit bureaucratic hurdles almost immediately and failed to take off, as both sides blamed the other for the delay and rights group warned returning the Rohingya to Myanmar would condemn them to further reprisals.

Rohingya teen injured in firing at Bangladesh-Myanmar border

A day after home minister arrived in<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-rajnath-singh-lands-in-jk-terrorists-ambush-army-patrol-in-kupwara-142769"> Jammu and Kashmir(J&K)&nbsp;terrorists</a> attacked an army patrol in Haril area of Kupwara district.

On Thursday, terrorists had ambushed the Army's patrol party in the Keran sector in Kupwara. Two soldiers were injured in the attack.

Home minister Rajnath Singh is in J&K to review the security situation in the state and meet people in the border area.

During a function in Sher-e-Kashmir Indoor Stadium in J&K, India's home minister said the Centre had decided to withdraw cases against stone-pelters.

"We believe that children anywhere are the same. We understand that some youth were misled into stone pelting."

"Children can make mistakes... That is why we decided to withdraw the cases against those children who were involved in stone pelting," he said.

Rajnath appealed to the youth in J&K to take the "path of development and not destruction." The home minister asserted that the state's sports infrastructure would be improved which he said "will change the face and destiny of the state."

Sing also facilitated several sportsperson from the state, including Parvez Rasool, Mehrajuddin, Rajinder Singh, Manzoor Dar and Tajjammul Islam.

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wNL4YFarQJ0" width="560"></iframe>

Home minister Rajnath Singh is in J&K to review the security situation in the state and meet people in the border area.

A day after home minister arrived in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) terrorists attacked an army patrol in Haril area of Kupwara district. On Thursday, terrorists had ambushed the Army's patrol party in the Keran sector in Kupwara. Two soldiers were injured in the attack. Home minister Rajnath Singh is in J&K to review the security situation in the state and meet people in the border area. During a function in Sher-e-Kashmir Indoor Stadium in J&K, India's home minister said the Centre had decided to withdraw cases against stone-pelters. "We believe that children anywhere are the same. We understand that some youth were misled into stone pelting." "Children can make mistakes... That is why we decided to withdraw the cases against those children who were involved in stone pelting," he said. Rajnath appealed to the youth in J&K to take the "path of development and not destruction." The home minister asserted that the state's sports infrastructure would be improved which he said "will change the face and destiny of the state." Sing also facilitated several sportsperson from the state, including Parvez Rasool, Mehrajuddin, Rajinder Singh, Manzoor Dar and Tajjammul Islam.

As Rajnath Singh visits J&K, terrorists attack Army patrol in Kupwara twice in 24 hours

The Border Security Force (BSF) on Sunday said that the Pakistan Rangers &nbsp;"pleaded" with them to stop firing along the IB after being pounded with heavy artillery that also left a trooper dead across the border.&nbsp;

The border guarding force also released a 19-second thermal-imagery footage showing the destruction of a Pakistani picket across the border in retaliation to the unprovoked firing and shelling along the IB.&nbsp;

"(Pakistan) Rangers called up Jammu BSF formation today and beseeched to stop firing," a BSF spokesman said.&nbsp;

"The befitting reply by BSF units to the unprovoked shelling and firing across the IB by Pakistani forces has forced them to plead for ceasefire," a senior official said.&nbsp;

"For the last three days, the precision fire of BSF troopers on Pakistani firing locations inflicted heavy losses and yesterday this firing found their mark with one of the rangers in chicken neck area," the official said.&nbsp;

The BSF had lost two of its jawans in this latest round of unprovoked firing on the Jammu IB over the last few days.&nbsp;

A number of civilians were also killed and injured in the Jammu area due to this firing incident which was seen to have increased in the wake of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's day-long visit to Jammu and Kashmir yesterday.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a spurt in Pakistani shelling and firing along the IB and the Line of Control (LoC) this year.&nbsp;

Over 700 incidents of fire and shelling were reported, which left 38 people including 18 security personnel dead and scores injured.

The BSF had lost two of its jawans in this latest round of unprovoked firing on the Jammu IB over the last few days.

The Border Security Force (BSF) on Sunday said that the Pakistan Rangers "pleaded" with them to stop firing along the IB after being pounded with heavy artillery that also left a trooper dead across the border. The border guarding force also released a 19-second thermal-imagery footage showing the destruction of a Pakistani picket across the border in retaliation to the unprovoked firing and shelling along the IB. "(Pakistan) Rangers called up Jammu BSF formation today and beseeched to stop firing," a BSF spokesman said. "The befitting reply by BSF units to the unprovoked shelling and firing across the IB by Pakistani forces has forced them to plead for ceasefire," a senior official said. "For the last three days, the precision fire of BSF troopers on Pakistani firing locations inflicted heavy losses and yesterday this firing found their mark with one of the rangers in chicken neck area," the official said. The BSF had lost two of its jawans in this latest round of unprovoked firing on the Jammu IB over the last few days. A number of civilians were also killed and injured in the Jammu area due to this firing incident which was seen to have increased in the wake of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's day-long visit to Jammu and Kashmir yesterday. Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a spurt in Pakistani shelling and firing along the IB and the Line of Control (LoC) this year. Over 700 incidents of fire and shelling were reported, which left 38 people including 18 security personnel dead and scores injured.

Pakistan Rangers pleaded for ceasefire after BSF destroyed bunkers along the international border

Donald Trump has hailed the firing of a veteran FBI agent Andrew McCabe as a &quot;great day for democracy,&quot; a move his attorney said he hoped would bring an end to a probe into alleged collusion between the president&#39;s campaign and Russia.

But critics slammed the axing as a &quot;dangerous&quot; ploy to discredit the top law enforcement agency as well as the work of Robert Mueller, the special counsel investigating Russian influence in the 2016 election.

McCabe, who was the FBI&#39;s deputy under former director James Comey, is a potentially key witness in the Russia probe.

Trump&#39;s personal attorney, John Dowd, told the Daily Beast on Saturday that he hoped Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein would follow the lead of the FBI Office of Professional Responsibility and &quot;bring an end to alleged Russia Collusion investigation manufactured by McCabe&#39;s boss James Comey based upon a fraudulent and corrupt Dossier.&quot;

Dowd told the Daily Beast he was speaking for the president. But in a subsequent statement, he said he had been &quot;speaking for myself, not the president.&quot;

McCabe, who has endured a year of withering attacks from Trump, was fired by the Justice Department late Friday, just two days before he was to retire after 21 years with the FBI.

The firing threw new fuel on the fire raging over the investigation, with critics saying Trump might be planning to engineer Mueller&#39;s dismissal, potentially sparking a constitutional crisis.

Mueller is also examining whether Trump might have obstructed justice, including by firing Comey last May.

&#39;War&#39; on the FBI

&quot;Andrew McCabe FIRED, a great day for the hardworking men and women of the FBI - A great day for Democracy,&quot; Trump tweeted soon after the firing.

McCabe pushed back hard, denying any impropriety and saying he was the victim of a Trump administration &quot;war&quot; against the FBI and the special counsel.

McCabe kept memos of his interactions with Trump, The Washington Post reported Saturday, adding that the memos could bolster his version of events.

Comey pushed back as well, tweeting: &quot;Mr President, the American people will hear my story very soon. And they can judge for themselves who is honourable and who is not.&quot;

The firing could add to discontent inside the FBI, where both Comey and McCabe are widely respected.

The Justice Department said an internal investigation had found that McCabe made unauthorized disclosures to the media, and had not been fully honest &quot;on multiple occasions&quot; with the department&#39;s inspector general.

&quot;The FBI expects every employee to adhere to the highest standards of honesty, integrity and accountability,&quot; Attorney General Jeff Sessions said in a statement.

Lack of candour under oath is a firing offence at the FBI, but the politically charged context of the move raised questions among McCabe&#39;s backers.

In a stinging response to the president, former CIA chief John Brennan tweeted Saturday: &quot;When the full extent of your venality, moral turpitude and political corruption becomes known, you will take your rightful place as a disgraced demagogue in the dustbin of history.&quot;

Trump, in an early afternoon tweet, belittled the media for its coverage of the story, saying: &quot;The Fake news is beside themselves that McCabe was caught, called out and fired...&quot;

And in a second tweet, he again denied any collusion with Russia, adding, &quot;there was tremendous leaking, lying and corruption at the highest levels of the FBI, Justice &amp; State.&quot;

&#39;Not political appointees&#39;

Details of the inspector general&#39;s probe were not made public, but it involved the FBI&#39;s handling of the 2016 investigation into Trump&#39;s election rival, Democrat Hillary Clinton.

Trump has repeatedly accused McCabe and Comey of having protected Clinton from prosecution, including over her misuse of a private email server while she was secretary of state.

McCabe hit out following his sacking in a blistering statement.

He said the inspector general&#39;s probe &quot;became part of an unprecedented effort by the administration, driven by the president himself, to remove me from my position, destroy my reputation, and possibly strip me of a pension that I worked 21 years to earn.&quot;

&quot;It is part of this administration&#39;s ongoing war with the FBI and the efforts of the special counsel investigation.&quot;

But one law professor defended the Justice Department&#39;s investigators.

&quot;These are not political appointees,&quot; Jonathan Turley of George Washington University told CNN.

&quot;They clearly concluded that McCabe misled them and that he misled them on one of the core issues they were investigating.&quot;

The White House has shown mounting frustration with the collusion probe, as it focuses ever more closely on the president&#39;s inner circle.

McCabe, who was the FBI's deputy under former director James Comey, is a potentially key witness in the Russia probe.

Donald Trump has hailed the firing of a veteran FBI agent Andrew McCabe as a "great day for democracy," a move his attorney said he hoped would bring an end to a probe into alleged collusion between the president's campaign and Russia. But critics slammed the axing as a "dangerous" ploy to discredit the top law enforcement agency as well as the work of Robert Mueller, the special counsel investigating Russian influence in the 2016 election. McCabe, who was the FBI's deputy under former director James Comey, is a potentially key witness in the Russia probe. Trump's personal attorney, John Dowd, told the Daily Beast on Saturday that he hoped Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein would follow the lead of the FBI Office of Professional Responsibility and "bring an end to alleged Russia Collusion investigation manufactured by McCabe's boss James Comey based upon a fraudulent and corrupt Dossier." Dowd told the Daily Beast he was speaking for the president. But in a subsequent statement, he said he had been "speaking for myself, not the president." McCabe, who has endured a year of withering attacks from Trump, was fired by the Justice Department late Friday, just two days before he was to retire after 21 years with the FBI. The firing threw new fuel on the fire raging over the investigation, with critics saying Trump might be planning to engineer Mueller's dismissal, potentially sparking a constitutional crisis. Mueller is also examining whether Trump might have obstructed justice, including by firing Comey last May. 'War' on the FBI "Andrew McCabe FIRED, a great day for the hardworking men and women of the FBI - A great day for Democracy," Trump tweeted soon after the firing. McCabe pushed back hard, denying any impropriety and saying he was the victim of a Trump administration "war" against the FBI and the special counsel. McCabe kept memos of his interactions with Trump, The Washington Post reported Saturday, adding that the memos could bolster his version of events. Comey pushed back as well, tweeting: "Mr President, the American people will hear my story very soon. And they can judge for themselves who is honourable and who is not." The firing could add to discontent inside the FBI, where both Comey and McCabe are widely respected. The Justice Department said an internal investigation had found that McCabe made unauthorized disclosures to the media, and had not been fully honest "on multiple occasions" with the department's inspector general. "The FBI expects every employee to adhere to the highest standards of honesty, integrity and accountability," Attorney General Jeff Sessions said in a statement. Lack of candour under oath is a firing offence at the FBI, but the politically charged context of the move raised questions among McCabe's backers. In a stinging response to the president, former CIA chief John Brennan tweeted Saturday: "When the full extent of your venality, moral turpitude and political corruption becomes known, you will take your rightful place as a disgraced demagogue in the dustbin of history." Trump, in an early afternoon tweet, belittled the media for its coverage of the story, saying: "The Fake news is beside themselves that McCabe was caught, called out and fired..." And in a second tweet, he again denied any collusion with Russia, adding, "there was tremendous leaking, lying and corruption at the highest levels of the FBI, Justice & State." 'Not political appointees' Details of the inspector general's probe were not made public, but it involved the FBI's handling of the 2016 investigation into Trump's election rival, Democrat Hillary Clinton. Trump has repeatedly accused McCabe and Comey of having protected Clinton from prosecution, including over her misuse of a private email server while she was secretary of state. McCabe hit out following his sacking in a blistering statement. He said the inspector general's probe "became part of an unprecedented effort by the administration, driven by the president himself, to remove me from my position, destroy my reputation, and possibly strip me of a pension that I worked 21 years to earn." "It is part of this administration's ongoing war with the FBI and the efforts of the special counsel investigation." But one law professor defended the Justice Department's investigators. "These are not political appointees," Jonathan Turley of George Washington University told CNN. "They clearly concluded that McCabe misled them and that he misled them on one of the core issues they were investigating." The White House has shown mounting frustration with the collusion probe, as it focuses ever more closely on the president's inner circle.

Donald Trump calls FBI official's firing a 'great day for Democracy', but critics call it 'dangerous'

Pakistani troops resorted to heavy shelling from across the border, targeting forward posts and villages along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday morning, the police said.

Heavy shelling from across the border in Mankote sector started around 7.40 am, prompting strong retaliation from the Indian Army.&nbsp;

According to the police officer, the shelling from both the sides was going on when last reports were received, however, there was no immediate report of any casualty in Pakistani shelling.

There has been a spurt in ceasefire violations by Pakistan along the LoC and the International Border this year, resulting in the death of 21 people&nbsp;including 12 security personnel.

Pakistan troops also indiscriminate firing in Poonch sector on Friday. &ldquo;The troops at 09:30 am&nbsp;resorted to firing of small arms, automatics and mortars,&rdquo; Public Relation Officer, Jammu had said. The Indian Army retaliated strongly and effectively.

Heavy shelling from across the border in Mankote sector started around 7.40 am, prompting strong retaliation from the Indian Army, a police official said

Pakistani troops resorted to heavy shelling from across the border, targeting forward posts and villages along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday morning, the police said. Heavy shelling from across the border in Mankote sector started around 7.40 am, prompting strong retaliation from the Indian Army. According to the police officer, the shelling from both the sides was going on when last reports were received, however, there was no immediate report of any casualty in Pakistani shelling. There has been a spurt in ceasefire violations by Pakistan along the LoC and the International Border this year, resulting in the death of 21 people including 12 security personnel. Pakistan troops also indiscriminate firing in Poonch sector on Friday. “The troops at 09:30 am resorted to firing of small arms, automatics and mortars,” Public Relation Officer, Jammu had said. The Indian Army retaliated strongly and effectively.

Pakistan troops shell forward posts, villages in J&K 's Poonch, India retaliates

The 19-year-old who committed the horrific shooting at a<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ex-student-opens-fire-in-florida-school-at-least-17-killed-32906"> Florida High School</a> on Wednesday was a &quot;troubled former student who loved guns,&quot; the police said.&nbsp;

Nikolas Cruz, 19, was arrested about an hour after a shooting rampage at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel told reporters.

Cruz was carrying a number of ammunition magazines and an AR-15-style rifle, Israel said. &ldquo;We already began to dissect his websites and the things on social media that he was on and some of the things that came to mind are very, very disturbing,&quot; he said.&nbsp;

Reports say that 12 out of the 17 killed have been identified and investigations are on to identify the rest. Five remain in life-threatening condition on Wednesday night. Ten remain in hospital with injuries that are not life-threatening.

No names have yet been released. Both adults and children were among the dead, Israel confirmed.

Cruz had reportedly been receiving mental health treatment but had not attended the clinic for over a year.

&nbsp;

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A 19-year-old former student opened fire at a Florida school killing at least 17 people terrifying students before he was arrested by police. (AP)
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As per reports and children who knew him said that had become a little strange over the past few months and had started posting about killing animals on social media and talked about guns and target practice.

Chad Williams, 18, a senior at Stoneman Douglas High school, remembered Cruz as a troubled classmate from when they attended middle school together. He said Cruz would set off the fire alarm, day after day, and finally got expelled in the eighth grade.&nbsp;

More recently, Williams saw Cruz carrying several publications about guns when they ran into each other at the high school. Williams thought Cruz was there to pick up a younger sibling.&nbsp;

&ldquo;He was crazy about guns,&rdquo; Williams told Reuters, speaking by the side of the road near the high school.&nbsp;&ldquo;He was kind of an outcast. He didn&rsquo;t have many friends. He would do anything crazy for a laugh, but he was trouble.&rdquo;

&quot;I would say he was not the most normal or sane kid in JROTC. He definitely had a little something off about him. He was a little extra quirky,&quot; said Jillian Davis, 19, who graduated from the school last year. &nbsp;

Reports further say that fellow students who had studied with him in school had surprisingly predicted that he could &quot;do something&quot; and that some children had been scared of him.&nbsp;

Moreover, fellow students jokingly said that it could be him since he had created trouble before, which turned out to be shockingly true.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)

Cruz was carrying a number of ammunition magazines and an AR-15-style rifle, the police said

The 19-year-old who committed the horrific shooting at a Florida High School on Wednesday was a "troubled former student who loved guns," the police said. Nikolas Cruz, 19, was arrested about an hour after a shooting rampage at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel told reporters. Cruz was carrying a number of ammunition magazines and an AR-15-style rifle, Israel said. “We already began to dissect his websites and the things on social media that he was on and some of the things that came to mind are very, very disturbing," he said. Reports say that 12 out of the 17 killed have been identified and investigations are on to identify the rest. Five remain in life-threatening condition on Wednesday night. Ten remain in hospital with injuries that are not life-threatening. No names have yet been released. Both adults and children were among the dead, Israel confirmed. Cruz had reportedly been receiving mental health treatment but had not attended the clinic for over a year. A 19-year-old former student opened fire at a Florida school killing at least 17 people terrifying students before he was arrested by police. (AP) × As per reports and children who knew him said that had become a little strange over the past few months and had started posting about killing animals on social media and talked about guns and target practice. Chad Williams, 18, a senior at Stoneman Douglas High school, remembered Cruz as a troubled classmate from when they attended middle school together. He said Cruz would set off the fire alarm, day after day, and finally got expelled in the eighth grade. More recently, Williams saw Cruz carrying several publications about guns when they ran into each other at the high school. Williams thought Cruz was there to pick up a younger sibling. “He was crazy about guns,” Williams told Reuters, speaking by the side of the road near the high school. “He was kind of an outcast. He didn’t have many friends. He would do anything crazy for a laugh, but he was trouble.” "I would say he was not the most normal or sane kid in JROTC. He definitely had a little something off about him. He was a little extra quirky," said Jillian Davis, 19, who graduated from the school last year. Reports further say that fellow students who had studied with him in school had surprisingly predicted that he could "do something" and that some children had been scared of him. Moreover, fellow students jokingly said that it could be him since he had created trouble before, which turned out to be shockingly true. (With inputs from Reuters)

Florida shooting: Suspect was a 'troubled former student who loved guns'

The Army today clearly indicated it would take retaliatory action against the killing of four army men in heavy shelling by Pakistani forces along the LoC in the Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir, saying that its action would speak for itself.

Vice chief Lt Gen Sarath Chand said the Army has been responding appropriately to Pakistan shelling, asserting that India will continue to give a &quot;befitting reply&quot; to such acts.

&quot;That (retaliation) goes without saying, I think I don&#39;t have to say that. (Our) action will speak for itself,&quot; he said when asked about the killing of a Captain and three other Army men in the Rajouri sector.

The Captain and three jawans were killed and at least four people injured yesterday in the heavy Pakistani shelling along the LoC.

Chand also accused the Pakistani Army of supporting the infiltration of terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-assembly-rocked-over-ceasefire-violations-by-pakistan-31836" target="_blank">Jammu and Kashmir Assembly rocked over ceasefire violations by Pakistan</a>

&quot;We will continue with our process of giving a befitting reply (to such acts),&quot; he told reporters on the sidelines of an event here, adding that there were even incidents of mutilation of bodies of jawans last year.

&quot;We have been responding appropriately,&quot; he said.

&quot;There has been cross-border shelling from their (Pakistan&#39;s) side. And one of the shells landed near the officer and his men, leading to the casualties,&quot; he said when asked about yesterday&#39;s shelling.

Captain Kapil Kundu, a resident of village Ransika in Haryana&#39;s Gurgaon district, was killed just six days before his 22nd birthday, Army officials said.

Havildar Roshan Lal, 42, a resident of Samba district, Jammu and Kashmir, Riflemen Ramavatar, 27, of Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, and Subham Singh, 23, of Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Kathua district were also killed in the shelling.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh said earlier today Indians had full faith in the valour of the Army. 
&quot;People of the country have full faith in the valour of the Indian Army,&quot; the minister told reporters outside Parliament when asked about the steps India would take in response to the attack.&nbsp;

'That (retaliation) goes without saying, I think I don't have to say that. (Our) action will speak for itself,' Vice-Chief General Sarath Chand said

The Army today clearly indicated it would take retaliatory action against the killing of four army men in heavy shelling by Pakistani forces along the LoC in the Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir, saying that its action would speak for itself. Vice chief Lt Gen Sarath Chand said the Army has been responding appropriately to Pakistan shelling, asserting that India will continue to give a "befitting reply" to such acts. "That (retaliation) goes without saying, I think I don't have to say that. (Our) action will speak for itself," he said when asked about the killing of a Captain and three other Army men in the Rajouri sector. The Captain and three jawans were killed and at least four people injured yesterday in the heavy Pakistani shelling along the LoC. Chand also accused the Pakistani Army of supporting the infiltration of terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir. Also read: Jammu and Kashmir Assembly rocked over ceasefire violations by Pakistan "We will continue with our process of giving a befitting reply (to such acts)," he told reporters on the sidelines of an event here, adding that there were even incidents of mutilation of bodies of jawans last year. "We have been responding appropriately," he said. "There has been cross-border shelling from their (Pakistan's) side. And one of the shells landed near the officer and his men, leading to the casualties," he said when asked about yesterday's shelling. Captain Kapil Kundu, a resident of village Ransika in Haryana's Gurgaon district, was killed just six days before his 22nd birthday, Army officials said. Havildar Roshan Lal, 42, a resident of Samba district, Jammu and Kashmir, Riflemen Ramavatar, 27, of Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, and Subham Singh, 23, of Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district were also killed in the shelling. Home Minister Rajnath Singh said earlier today Indians had full faith in the valour of the Army. "People of the country have full faith in the valour of the Indian Army," the minister told reporters outside Parliament when asked about the steps India would take in response to the attack.

'Action will speak for itself': Army hints at retaliatory action against killing of 4 soldiers by Pakistan

The Pakistani media reported Monday that India had killed three Pakistani soldiers along the Line of Control.

It added that one Pakistani soldier was wounded.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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India has killed three Pakistan Army soldiers along LOC at Rakhchikri, Rawlakot sector. One Pak soldier is injured: Pakistan media <a href="https://t.co/mgy2WkaGWy">pic.twitter.com/mgy2WkaGWy</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/945339431434600449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Indian Army troops crossed over the Line of Control (PoK) &amp; killed three Pakistani army soldiers, one Pak soldier injured. This was in retaliation to the four Indian Army personnel killed on Saturday? in ceasefire violation by Pakistan: Intelligence Sources
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/945475527619391488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2017</a></blockquote>
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ANI reported Tuesday, quoting intelligence sources, that Indian Army troops had crossed over the Line of Control and killed the three soldiers.&nbsp;

ANI added that the killings were in retaliation to the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-3-soldiers-killed-in-pakistan-ceasefire-violation-in-keri-27540" target="_blank">four Indian Army personnel killed</a> on Saturday in the ceasefire violation by Pakistan.&nbsp;

The Inter-Services Public Relations, the media wing of the Pakistan Armed Forces, said the killings had been caused by a ceasefire violation.&nbsp;

&ldquo;India initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation along LoC at Rakhchikri, Rawlakot sector. Three soldiers embraced shahadat (died). One injured,&rdquo; it said on its website.&nbsp;

The ISPR added that Pakistani troops had given a &quot;strong response&quot; to the attack.&nbsp;

Some media outlets&nbsp;however quoted the Indian Army as denying the reports, blaming Pakistan for the ceasefire violation, and saying the Pakistani&nbsp;soldiers may have died in return fire.&nbsp;

The three Pakistani soldiers killed, sources said, belonged to the 59 Baloch Regiment, 12 infantry division.&nbsp;

They were identified as Sepoy Sajjad, M Usma, and Abdul Rehman.&nbsp;

The injured Pakistani soldier was identified as Athzaz Hussain.&nbsp;

The sources added that the &quot;action&quot;&nbsp;took place in the Rakhchakri area of Rawalkot on the afternoon of December 25.&nbsp;

The ceasefire along the LoC and International Border in Jammu and Kashmir has been <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-violated-ceasefire-881-times-along-loc-ib-27216" target="_blank">violated </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-violated-ceasefire-881-times-along-loc-ib-27216">881 times this year.</a>&nbsp;

The four Indian soldiers killed on Saturday included a major, two lance naiks, and a sepoy.&nbsp;

Four Indian Army soldiers had been killed in the ceasefire violation in Keri on Saturday

The Pakistani media reported Monday that India had killed three Pakistani soldiers along the Line of Control. It added that one Pakistani soldier was wounded. India has killed three Pakistan Army soldiers along LOC at Rakhchikri, Rawlakot sector. One Pak soldier is injured: Pakistan media pic.twitter.com/mgy2WkaGWy — ANI (@ANI) December 25, 2017 × Indian Army troops crossed over the Line of Control (PoK) & killed three Pakistani army soldiers, one Pak soldier injured. This was in retaliation to the four Indian Army personnel killed on Saturday? in ceasefire violation by Pakistan: Intelligence Sources — ANI (@ANI) December 26, 2017 × ANI reported Tuesday, quoting intelligence sources, that Indian Army troops had crossed over the Line of Control and killed the three soldiers. ANI added that the killings were in retaliation to the four Indian Army personnel killed on Saturday in the ceasefire violation by Pakistan. The Inter-Services Public Relations, the media wing of the Pakistan Armed Forces, said the killings had been caused by a ceasefire violation. “India initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation along LoC at Rakhchikri, Rawlakot sector. Three soldiers embraced shahadat (died). One injured,” it said on its website. The ISPR added that Pakistani troops had given a "strong response" to the attack. Some media outlets however quoted the Indian Army as denying the reports, blaming Pakistan for the ceasefire violation, and saying the Pakistani soldiers may have died in return fire. The three Pakistani soldiers killed, sources said, belonged to the 59 Baloch Regiment, 12 infantry division. They were identified as Sepoy Sajjad, M Usma, and Abdul Rehman. The injured Pakistani soldier was identified as Athzaz Hussain. The sources added that the "action" took place in the Rakhchakri area of Rawalkot on the afternoon of December 25. The ceasefire along the LoC and International Border in Jammu and Kashmir has been violated 881 times this year. The four Indian soldiers killed on Saturday included a major, two lance naiks, and a sepoy.

Indian Army crosses LoC, kills 3 Pakistani soldiers in retaliation for Keri attack: Report

Pakistani troops shelled, heavily, areas along the LoC in Rajouri district for the second consecutive day today, causing heavy damage to buildings and forcing the&nbsp;evacuation of 1,000 border dwellers.

The Indian Army effectively retaliated.

Pakistan Army had yesterday pounded civilian areas and forward posts along the LoC in Nowshera area with mortars, killing two civilians and injuring three.

&quot;Pakistani Army has resorted to indiscriminate firing of small arms, 82 mm and 120 mm mortars from 0645 hours along the Line of Control in Rajouri sector&quot;, a Defence Spokesman said.

&quot;The Indian Army posts are retaliating strongly and effectively. The firing is presently on&quot;, he said.

Deputy Commissioner, Rajouri, Shahid Iqbal Choudgary said fresh ceasefire violation has been reported in &#39;chitibakri&#39; area of Chingus in Rajouri today.

&quot;Heavy shelling started in Manjakote area of Rajouri at O620 hours. More than seven villages have been affected&quot;, the DC said.

Choudhary said there was massive damage to buildings.

He said the number of migrants at relief camps swelled to 978 overnight. Till now 259 families have been evacuated from three villages, he added.

51 schools in Nowshera sector have been closed for an indefinite period while 36 in Manjakote and Doongi zones have been closed for three days. 4,600 students study in 87 schools, he added.

After the Pakistani shelling, 1000 people were evacuated from various areas along the LoC in Rajouri district to safer places.

&quot;Risking their lives officials and police evacuated 996 people from various shelling hit villages and shifted them to various camps established by district administration where facilities of ration, cooking, drinking water, sanitation, first aid and proper accommodation have been provided,&quot; Choudhary said.

So far, three camps have been made operational and 28 others notified in wake of expected migration from affected villages, Choudhary said.

&quot;Six ambulances have been pressed into action for shifting of injured and treatment. One mobile medical unit was stationed at Nowshera and another deputed to forward areas,&quot; he added.

Around 120 officers from various departments have been deployed to organise facilities at relief camp.

The district administration has provided immediate relief and financial assistance to the next of kin of the deceased and to the injured, he said.

A control room has been established in the office of SDM Nowshera for coordination.

The government had last month said that Pakistani security forces had violated the ceasefire 268 times in the last one year.

The ceasefire between India and Pakistan came into force in November 2003.

(PTI)

Two civilians had been killed and 3 injured in cross-border firing on Saturday

Pakistani troops shelled, heavily, areas along the LoC in Rajouri district for the second consecutive day today, causing heavy damage to buildings and forcing the evacuation of 1,000 border dwellers. The Indian Army effectively retaliated. Pakistan Army had yesterday pounded civilian areas and forward posts along the LoC in Nowshera area with mortars, killing two civilians and injuring three. "Pakistani Army has resorted to indiscriminate firing of small arms, 82 mm and 120 mm mortars from 0645 hours along the Line of Control in Rajouri sector", a Defence Spokesman said. "The Indian Army posts are retaliating strongly and effectively. The firing is presently on", he said. Deputy Commissioner, Rajouri, Shahid Iqbal Choudgary said fresh ceasefire violation has been reported in 'chitibakri' area of Chingus in Rajouri today. "Heavy shelling started in Manjakote area of Rajouri at O620 hours. More than seven villages have been affected", the DC said. Choudhary said there was massive damage to buildings. He said the number of migrants at relief camps swelled to 978 overnight. Till now 259 families have been evacuated from three villages, he added. 51 schools in Nowshera sector have been closed for an indefinite period while 36 in Manjakote and Doongi zones have been closed for three days. 4,600 students study in 87 schools, he added. After the Pakistani shelling, 1000 people were evacuated from various areas along the LoC in Rajouri district to safer places. "Risking their lives officials and police evacuated 996 people from various shelling hit villages and shifted them to various camps established by district administration where facilities of ration, cooking, drinking water, sanitation, first aid and proper accommodation have been provided," Choudhary said. So far, three camps have been made operational and 28 others notified in wake of expected migration from affected villages, Choudhary said. "Six ambulances have been pressed into action for shifting of injured and treatment. One mobile medical unit was stationed at Nowshera and another deputed to forward areas," he added. Around 120 officers from various departments have been deployed to organise facilities at relief camp. The district administration has provided immediate relief and financial assistance to the next of kin of the deceased and to the injured, he said. A control room has been established in the office of SDM Nowshera for coordination. The government had last month said that Pakistani security forces had violated the ceasefire 268 times in the last one year. The ceasefire between India and Pakistan came into force in November 2003. (PTI)

Kashmir: 1,000 people evacuated from along LoC

A Pakistani school bus driver was killed and several children were wounded on Friday in Indian firing along the frontier in the disputed Kashmir region, Pakistan said.

&quot;A shell landed near a school bus in Mohra village of Nakyal sector, leaving the driver dead and eight children wounded,&quot; official Sardar Zeeshan Nisar told Reuters by telephone from the area.

The firing was a violation of a 2003 ceasefire, the Pakistani army&#39;s media wing said in a statement.

&quot;Pakistani troops effectively responded and targeted Indian posts from where fire was coming,&quot; it said.

The Indian army had no immediate comment on the Pakistani report but a spokesman said Pakistani forces had fired across the Line of Control - the de facto border - and the Indian side had given a &quot;befitting reply&quot;.

The Muslim-majority Himalayan region of Kashmir is divided between Pakistan and India and claimed in entirety by both. The longtime foes have fought two of their three wars since independence from Britain in 1947 over Kashmir.

Tension has risen in the region since a Sept. 18 attack on an Indian army base in Indian-controlled Kashmir killed 18 soldiers, an attack India blamed on Pakistan-based separatists.

Firing across the Line of Control by both sides has increased since then, with dozens killed and wounded and each side blaming the other.

An Indian crackdown on protests in its part of Kashmir has killed at least 80 civilians since the July killing of a popular separatist leader in an operation by Indian security forces.

(Reuters)

The firing was a violation of a 2003 ceasefire, the Pakistani army's media wing said in a statement

A Pakistani school bus driver was killed and several children were wounded on Friday in Indian firing along the frontier in the disputed Kashmir region, Pakistan said. "A shell landed near a school bus in Mohra village of Nakyal sector, leaving the driver dead and eight children wounded," official Sardar Zeeshan Nisar told Reuters by telephone from the area. The firing was a violation of a 2003 ceasefire, the Pakistani army's media wing said in a statement. "Pakistani troops effectively responded and targeted Indian posts from where fire was coming," it said. The Indian army had no immediate comment on the Pakistani report but a spokesman said Pakistani forces had fired across the Line of Control - the de facto border - and the Indian side had given a "befitting reply". The Muslim-majority Himalayan region of Kashmir is divided between Pakistan and India and claimed in entirety by both. The longtime foes have fought two of their three wars since independence from Britain in 1947 over Kashmir. Tension has risen in the region since a Sept. 18 attack on an Indian army base in Indian-controlled Kashmir killed 18 soldiers, an attack India blamed on Pakistan-based separatists. Firing across the Line of Control by both sides has increased since then, with dozens killed and wounded and each side blaming the other. An Indian crackdown on protests in its part of Kashmir has killed at least 80 civilians since the July killing of a popular separatist leader in an operation by Indian security forces. (Reuters)

Pakistan says children hurt, man killed in Indian firing in Kashmir

One police constable lost his life and one was injured in a shooting near a police station in Assam&#39;s Karbi Anglong.&nbsp; 
 
There are however cnflicting media reports on who the perpetrators were. While some say &nbsp;it was a militant attack, some are calling it a case of accidental firing. 
 
This follows last week&#39;s attack where attackers wearing military uniforms shot dead at least 14 people and wounded 15 in a busy market area in a town in the restive northeastern state. 
 
(Agencies)

While some media reports say it was a militant attack, some are calling it a case of accidental firing

One police constable lost his life and one was injured in a shooting near a police station in Assam's Karbi Anglong. There are however cnflicting media reports on who the perpetrators were. While some say it was a militant attack, some are calling it a case of accidental firing. This follows last week's attack where attackers wearing military uniforms shot dead at least 14 people and wounded 15 in a busy market area in a town in the restive northeastern state. (Agencies)

Policeman killed in firing near police station in Assam

A gunman, who police shot dead on Thursday after he took hostages at a German cinema, appeared to have been a &quot;disturbed man&quot;, the interior minister of the state of Hesse said. He also said none of the patrons was injured. 
 
&quot;We have no information that anyone was injured,&quot; Hesse interior minister Peter Beuth&nbsp;told the state parliament, after confirming that the lone gunman was killed in a struggle with police in the western town of&nbsp;Viernheim.&nbsp;

Initial reports suggested that up to 50 were hurt in the firing, however,&nbsp;Bild&nbsp;daily&nbsp;had reported the police as saying&nbsp;that&nbsp;about 25&nbsp;were&nbsp;exposed to tear gas.&nbsp;

The gunman had a rifle or &quot;long gun&quot; and special forces intervened and shot him, Beuth said. &nbsp;

A police spokeswoman also confirmed the gunman had been shot and said nobody was injured.&nbsp;

AFP cited&nbsp;Beuth&nbsp;as telling&nbsp;Hesse parliament that no patrons of the German cinema complex stormed by the armed man&nbsp;were hurt and all have been released.&nbsp;

(Agencies)&nbsp;

Earlier reports suggested up to 50 were hurt in the Viernheim 'shooting', however, later officials said 25 were affected by tear gas

A gunman, who police shot dead on Thursday after he took hostages at a German cinema, appeared to have been a "disturbed man", the interior minister of the state of Hesse said. He also said none of the patrons was injured. "We have no information that anyone was injured," Hesse interior minister Peter Beuth told the state parliament, after confirming that the lone gunman was killed in a struggle with police in the western town of Viernheim. Initial reports suggested that up to 50 were hurt in the firing, however, Bild daily had reported the police as saying that about 25 were exposed to tear gas. The gunman had a rifle or "long gun" and special forces intervened and shot him, Beuth said. A police spokeswoman also confirmed the gunman had been shot and said nobody was injured. AFP cited Beuth as telling Hesse parliament that no patrons of the German cinema complex stormed by the armed man were hurt and all have been released. (Agencies)

Armed man breaks into German cinema, shot dead, no patrons hurt

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