RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, in his first public remarks after the results of the Lok Sabha elections 2024, on Monday (June 10) said that a true sevak (those who serve the people) does not have “ahankar” (arrogance) and does his/her work without hurting others.

While commenting on the bitter poll campaign, Bhagwat said “decorum was not maintained”.

While speaking at a gathering of RSS leaders and workers, after the culmination of Karyakarta Vikas Varg, Bhagwat emphasised the importance of building consensus.

“Jo vastavik sevak hai, jisko vastavik sevak kaha ja sakta hai, woh maryada se chalta hai… Uss maryada ka paalan karke jo chalta hai woh karm karta hai lekin karmon mein lipt nahi hota. Usme ahankar nahin aata ki maine kiya. Aur wahi sevak kehlane ka adhikari rehta hai (A true sevak maintains decorum while working… The one who maintains decorum does his work, but remains unattached. There is no arrogance that I did this. Only such a person has the right to be called a sevak),” Bhagwat said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-results-narendra-modi-hits-a-hat-trick-but-the-victory-trumpet-is-mellow-728501">Narendra Modi hits a hat-trick as India's PM, but the victory trumpet is mellow</a>

The RSS chief further criticised the political campaigns carried out before the elections.&nbsp;

“The kind of things that were said, the way the two sides castigated each other (during the elections)… the way no one cared about social divisions being created because of what was being done… and for no reason the Sangh was dragged into this… untruths were spread with the use of technology. Is this the way knowledge should be used? How will the country operate like this?” Bhagwat said.

<h2>Opposition is not an opponent, says RSS chief&nbsp;</h2>

Speaking on the rise of Opposition in this Lok Sabha elections, Bhagwat said, “I do not call it Virodhi Paksh, I call it Pratipaksh. Pratipaksh virodhi nahi hai (The Opposition is not an opponent). It is revealing a side and that must be deliberated upon. If we understand that this is how we must operate, then we must be cognizant of the decorum required in contesting elections. That decorum was not maintained.”

<h2>Manipur is still burning: Bhagwat</h2>

Bhagwat further reiterated the concern of the Sangh over continuing violence in Manipur and questioned who will pay attention to the issues on the ground. He stated that it needs to be dealt with on priority.

Watch:&nbsp;Nirmala Sitharaman reappointed as finance minister in Modi's coalition

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nirmala-sitharaman-reappointed-as-finance-minister-in-modis-coalition-730686/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Emphasising the increase in violence in Manipur, Bhagwat said, “Everywhere there is social disharmony. This is not good. For the past one year, Manipur has been awaiting peace. It was peaceful for the past one decade. It appeared that the gun culture of yore was gone. But the gun culture that took shape suddenly, or was created, Manipur is still burning. Who is going to pay attention to it? It is a duty to deal with it on priority.”

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, in his first public remarks after the results of the Lok Sabha elections 2024, on Monday (June 10) said that a true sevak (those who serve the people) does not have “ahankar” (arrogance) and does his/her work without hurting others.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, in his first public remarks after the results of the Lok Sabha elections 2024, on Monday (June 10) said that a true sevak (those who serve the people) does not have “ahankar” (arrogance) and does his/her work without hurting others. While commenting on the bitter poll campaign, Bhagwat said “decorum was not maintained”. While speaking at a gathering of RSS leaders and workers, after the culmination of Karyakarta Vikas Varg, Bhagwat emphasised the importance of building consensus. “Jo vastavik sevak hai, jisko vastavik sevak kaha ja sakta hai, woh maryada se chalta hai… Uss maryada ka paalan karke jo chalta hai woh karm karta hai lekin karmon mein lipt nahi hota. Usme ahankar nahin aata ki maine kiya. Aur wahi sevak kehlane ka adhikari rehta hai (A true sevak maintains decorum while working… The one who maintains decorum does his work, but remains unattached. There is no arrogance that I did this. Only such a person has the right to be called a sevak),” Bhagwat said. Also Read: Narendra Modi hits a hat-trick as India's PM, but the victory trumpet is mellow The RSS chief further criticised the political campaigns carried out before the elections. “The kind of things that were said, the way the two sides castigated each other (during the elections)… the way no one cared about social divisions being created because of what was being done… and for no reason the Sangh was dragged into this… untruths were spread with the use of technology. Is this the way knowledge should be used? How will the country operate like this?” Bhagwat said. Opposition is not an opponent, says RSS chief Speaking on the rise of Opposition in this Lok Sabha elections, Bhagwat said, “I do not call it Virodhi Paksh, I call it Pratipaksh. Pratipaksh virodhi nahi hai (The Opposition is not an opponent). It is revealing a side and that must be deliberated upon. If we understand that this is how we must operate, then we must be cognizant of the decorum required in contesting elections. That decorum was not maintained.” Manipur is still burning: Bhagwat Bhagwat further reiterated the concern of the Sangh over continuing violence in Manipur and questioned who will pay attention to the issues on the ground. He stated that it needs to be dealt with on priority. Watch: Nirmala Sitharaman reappointed as finance minister in Modi's coalition Emphasising the increase in violence in Manipur, Bhagwat said, “Everywhere there is social disharmony. This is not good. For the past one year, Manipur has been awaiting peace. It was peaceful for the past one decade. It appeared that the gun culture of yore was gone. But the gun culture that took shape suddenly, or was created, Manipur is still burning. Who is going to pay attention to it? It is a duty to deal with it on priority.” (With inputs from agencies)

True 'sevak' does not have arrogance, decorum not maintained in polls: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat

An eight-year-old Indian boy named Subhajit Sahu, whose organs were donated following his death, was cremated with full state honours on Monday (March 4).

Subhajit, a second-grade student, experienced a brain seizure while taking a test at his school. Despite immediate medical attention and efforts to save him, Subhajit slipped into a coma and eventually died on Saturday (March 4).&nbsp;In the face of this devastating loss, Subhajit's family made the&nbsp;decision to donate all of his organs, including kidneys, lungs, liver, eyes, heart, and pancreas.

“I am proud of my son. He died but saved the lives of many. I work in the healthcare sector. So, I know how scarce human organs are. People die waiting for donors. So, we took the decision to donate his organs,” Subhajit’s father Biswajit Sahu told PTI.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/water-crisis-in-bengaluru-housing-society-implements-fine-for-water-misuse-696963">Also read |&nbsp;Water crisis in Bengaluru: Housing society implements fine for water misuse&nbsp;</a>

<h2>State honours after organ donation</h2>

The decision to bestow full state honours upon Subhajit aligns with the recent policy announced by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, which ensures that organ donors receive dignified last rites. This policy aims to raise awareness about organ donation and honour individuals who contribute to this life-saving cause.&nbsp;

Police Commissioner Panda told PTI, “We hope more people will come forward to donate organs through this initiative."

Full State honours entail that the State Government manages all aspects of the ceremony, which includes wrapping the body in the national flag and conducting a 21-gun salute. Additionally, the government provides financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh (over 6k USD) from the Chief Minister’s fund to the relatives of organ donors.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-farmers-resume-delhi-chalo-march-police-boost-surveillance-at-borders-697130">Also read |&nbsp;India: Farmers resume 'Dilli Chalo' march, police boost surveillance on borders</a>

To streamline the organ donation process, the government established a 'State Organ &amp; Tissue Transplant Organisation' in 2019. Furthermore, in 2020, the government introduced the Suraj Award to recognise and honour organ donors.

Also watch |&nbsp;PM Modi in Kolkata to inaugurate first-of-its-kind river metro project in India

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-in-kolkata-to-inaugurate-first-of-its-kind-river-metro-project-in-india-697129/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

An eight-year-old Indian boy named Subhajit Sahu, whose organs were donated following his death, was cremated with full state honours on Monday (March 4). Subhajit, a second-grade student, experienced a brain seizure while taking a test at his school.

An eight-year-old Indian boy named Subhajit Sahu, whose organs were donated following his death, was cremated with full state honours on Monday (March 4). Subhajit, a second-grade student, experienced a brain seizure while taking a test at his school. Despite immediate medical attention and efforts to save him, Subhajit slipped into a coma and eventually died on Saturday (March 4). In the face of this devastating loss, Subhajit's family made the decision to donate all of his organs, including kidneys, lungs, liver, eyes, heart, and pancreas. “I am proud of my son. He died but saved the lives of many. I work in the healthcare sector. So, I know how scarce human organs are. People die waiting for donors. So, we took the decision to donate his organs,” Subhajit’s father Biswajit Sahu told PTI. Also read | Water crisis in Bengaluru: Housing society implements fine for water misuse State honours after organ donation The decision to bestow full state honours upon Subhajit aligns with the recent policy announced by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, which ensures that organ donors receive dignified last rites. This policy aims to raise awareness about organ donation and honour individuals who contribute to this life-saving cause. Police Commissioner Panda told PTI, “We hope more people will come forward to donate organs through this initiative." Full State honours entail that the State Government manages all aspects of the ceremony, which includes wrapping the body in the national flag and conducting a 21-gun salute. Additionally, the government provides financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh (over 6k USD) from the Chief Minister’s fund to the relatives of organ donors. Also read | India: Farmers resume 'Dilli Chalo' march, police boost surveillance on borders To streamline the organ donation process, the government established a 'State Organ & Tissue Transplant Organisation' in 2019. Furthermore, in 2020, the government introduced the Suraj Award to recognise and honour organ donors. Also watch | PM Modi in Kolkata to inaugurate first-of-its-kind river metro project in India (With inputs from agencies)

8-year-old Indian boy, whose organs were donated after death, cremated with state honours

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

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

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

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

Iraq's October 10 elections reinforced the parliamentary strength of mercurial Shiite preacher Moqtada Sadr and saw a sharp decline in that of his adversaries, the pro-Iran Hashed al-Shaabi alliance, according to preliminary results.

A final tally from the ballot, organised to appease youth-led anti-government protests that began in 2019, is expected in the next few weeks, but so far no bloc has a clear mandate.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moqtada-al-sadrs-party-claims-largest-seats-in-initial-iraq-poll-results-420027">Moqtada al-Sadr's party claims largest seats in initial Iraq poll results</a>

That means the numerous political parties will engage in lengthy negotiations to form alliances and name a new prime minister.

<h2>What alliances are possible ?</h2>

Harith Hasan, a nonresident senior fellow at the Carnegie Middle East Center, generally sees two main potential scenarios.

The first is the revival of a "Shiite alliance" between Sadr, who has criticised Iranian influence, and the Hashed, a former paramilitary network now integrated into the regular security forces.

Results so far show Sadr won more than 70 of the 329 parliamentary seats.

This coalition option would see Sadr accepting "a new power-sharing arrangement with a compromise candidate" as prime minister, Hasan said.

There would also be an agreement "on certain 'principles' for reform, including the future and the structure of Hashed al-Shaabi," he said.

Any compromise candidate for prime minister will have to have the tacit blessing of Tehran and Washington, arch-foes that are both Baghdad allies.

According to preliminary results the Conquest (Fatah) Alliance, the political arm of the multi-party Hashed, emerged from the election with only around 15 seats in parliament.

In the last chamber it had 48, which made it the second largest bloc.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/record-low-voter-turnout-mars-iraqi-parliamentary-elections-419864">Record low voter turnout mars Iraqi parliamentary elections</a>

A source in Fatah told AFP that some of its leaders "suggested to a representative of the Sadrists to conclude an alliance" with them and other Shiite entities.

A second scenario would see Sadr align himself with Massoud Barzani, the longtime head of the Kurdistan Democratic Party which runs the Kurdish autonomous region in northern Iraq.

Mohammed al-Halbussi, the former parliamentary speaker who cultivates an image of dynamism and leads a construction boom in his home city of Ramadi, would also be part of this coalition, along with smaller groups.

This scenario is only possible if Sadr "did not succumb to the pressure" of Hashed, said Hasan, who does not exclude "some kind of chaos or armed conflict" in the country where virtually all political actors have links to armed groups.

Despite losing seats, the Hashed is still expected to carry weight in parliament through the support of members who say they are independent, and arrangements with former prime minister Nuri al-Maliki, who held the post between 2006 and 2014.

An ally of Hashed and a figure close to Iran, Maliki won more than 30 seats.

<h2>Who will be prime minister ?</h2>

No name has yet emerged as a replacement for Mustafa al-Kadhemi.

Sadr had claimed he was going to name the next prime minister, but the one ultimately chosen "has to be a consensus candidate," said Lahib Higel, a senior analyst on Iraq at the International Crisis Group.

It could be Kadhemi himself.

Well connected both in Tehran and Washington, he brought forward the elections, originally scheduled for 2022, in response to the anti-government protests over endemic corruption, unemployment and failing public services.

With no base of his own and no seat in parliament, Kadhemi could be a convenient choice "because to a certain degree you will get rid of a part of the responsibility when the face of the government is someone else," Higel said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqis-to-elect-new-parliament-amid-deep-crisis-apathy-417813">Iraqis to elect new parliament amid deep crisis, apathy</a>

"He has a chance."

In Hasan's view, "Kadhemi still stands a good chance to stay in office."

<h2>&nbsp;What about Iran's role ?</h2>

The loss of seats by Fatah, which is very close to Iran, will not necessarily weaken Tehran's role in Iraq.

"Iran has had an influence in Iraq ever since 2003," years before the Hashed alliance first entered parliament in 2018, Higel said.

According to Hasan, Iran has three main interests in its neighbour: ending the US military presence which numbers 2,500, and making sure there are no threats coming from Iraq; supporting Hashed; and keeping the Iraqi market open to products from Iran's crippled economy.

Hasan added that Iran "don't see Sadr as an enemy, but they are attentive to the risk of having him dominating" the Shiite scene.

Iraq's October 10 elections reinforced the parliamentary strength of mercurial Shiite preacher Moqtada Sadr and saw a sharp decline in that of his adversaries, the pro-Iran Hashed al-Shaabi alliance, according to preliminary results.

Iraq's October 10 elections reinforced the parliamentary strength of mercurial Shiite preacher Moqtada Sadr and saw a sharp decline in that of his adversaries, the pro-Iran Hashed al-Shaabi alliance, according to preliminary results. A final tally from the ballot, organised to appease youth-led anti-government protests that began in 2019, is expected in the next few weeks, but so far no bloc has a clear mandate. Also Read | Moqtada al-Sadr's party claims largest seats in initial Iraq poll results That means the numerous political parties will engage in lengthy negotiations to form alliances and name a new prime minister. What alliances are possible ? Harith Hasan, a nonresident senior fellow at the Carnegie Middle East Center, generally sees two main potential scenarios. The first is the revival of a "Shiite alliance" between Sadr, who has criticised Iranian influence, and the Hashed, a former paramilitary network now integrated into the regular security forces. Results so far show Sadr won more than 70 of the 329 parliamentary seats. This coalition option would see Sadr accepting "a new power-sharing arrangement with a compromise candidate" as prime minister, Hasan said. There would also be an agreement "on certain 'principles' for reform, including the future and the structure of Hashed al-Shaabi," he said. Any compromise candidate for prime minister will have to have the tacit blessing of Tehran and Washington, arch-foes that are both Baghdad allies. According to preliminary results the Conquest (Fatah) Alliance, the political arm of the multi-party Hashed, emerged from the election with only around 15 seats in parliament. In the last chamber it had 48, which made it the second largest bloc. Also Read | Record low voter turnout mars Iraqi parliamentary elections A source in Fatah told AFP that some of its leaders "suggested to a representative of the Sadrists to conclude an alliance" with them and other Shiite entities. A second scenario would see Sadr align himself with Massoud Barzani, the longtime head of the Kurdistan Democratic Party which runs the Kurdish autonomous region in northern Iraq. Mohammed al-Halbussi, the former parliamentary speaker who cultivates an image of dynamism and leads a construction boom in his home city of Ramadi, would also be part of this coalition, along with smaller groups. This scenario is only possible if Sadr "did not succumb to the pressure" of Hashed, said Hasan, who does not exclude "some kind of chaos or armed conflict" in the country where virtually all political actors have links to armed groups. Despite losing seats, the Hashed is still expected to carry weight in parliament through the support of members who say they are independent, and arrangements with former prime minister Nuri al-Maliki, who held the post between 2006 and 2014. An ally of Hashed and a figure close to Iran, Maliki won more than 30 seats. Who will be prime minister ? No name has yet emerged as a replacement for Mustafa al-Kadhemi. Sadr had claimed he was going to name the next prime minister, but the one ultimately chosen "has to be a consensus candidate," said Lahib Higel, a senior analyst on Iraq at the International Crisis Group. It could be Kadhemi himself. Well connected both in Tehran and Washington, he brought forward the elections, originally scheduled for 2022, in response to the anti-government protests over endemic corruption, unemployment and failing public services. With no base of his own and no seat in parliament, Kadhemi could be a convenient choice "because to a certain degree you will get rid of a part of the responsibility when the face of the government is someone else," Higel said. Also Read | Iraqis to elect new parliament amid deep crisis, apathy "He has a chance." In Hasan's view, "Kadhemi still stands a good chance to stay in office." What about Iran's role ? The loss of seats by Fatah, which is very close to Iran, will not necessarily weaken Tehran's role in Iraq. "Iran has had an influence in Iraq ever since 2003," years before the Hashed alliance first entered parliament in 2018, Higel said. According to Hasan, Iran has three main interests in its neighbour: ending the US military presence which numbers 2,500, and making sure there are no threats coming from Iraq; supporting Hashed; and keeping the Iraqi market open to products from Iran's crippled economy. Hasan added that Iran "don't see Sadr as an enemy, but they are attentive to the risk of having him dominating" the Shiite scene.

Who will form Iraq's next government ?

Centre is all geared up to meet the demand of coal by states and power companies and railways.&nbsp;The government is ramping up its per day coal production from 1.94 million to 2 million tonnes within a week.

Government sources told ANI that there is no shortage in the daily supply of coal to states and power companies and it is maintaining 5 days&nbsp;stock. In a month's time situation will be back to normal.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-coal-prices-reach-an-all-time-high-power-outages-persist-420074">Chinese coal prices reach an all-time high, power outages persist&nbsp;</a>

There are multiple reasons for the current scenario. Government source told ANI, "Since January coal ministry has been writing to various states to pick up and stock coal in their respective states but no one paid heed. Coal India can stock up to a limit. If we stock more coal than the limit there is a risk of fire.

"Rajasthan, West Bengal, Jharkhand have their own mines but they did little to extract coal. It is learnt that despite clearances some of the state governments sat on decisions and gave COVID and rains as a reason for not doing enough mining.

Prolonged monsoon affected the mining and the shooting prices of imported coal also contributed to the current situation.

There is a 12 per cent fall in imports of foreign coal which power companies blend, to cut losses due to high prices they also shifted to domestic coal.States have huge pending dues of Coal India on them.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-coal-crisis-115-out-of-135-power-plants-face-shortage-420063">India's coal crisis: 115 out of 135 power plants face shortage</a>

It is learnt from sources that Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu are big defaulters. All States have to dues of Rs 20,000 crores to be paid to Coal India.

Government sources said despite large sums of dues, supply continues and it will continue to provide power and coal supplies.

Electrification of villages and industrialisation has also shot up the demand. Government source told ANI that Delhi and Punjab shut coal plants like in Ropar and Bhatinda.

Centre is all geared up to meet the demand of coal by states and power companies and railways. The government is ramping up its per day coal production from 1.94 million to 2 million tonnes within a week.

Centre is all geared up to meet the demand of coal by states and power companies and railways. The government is ramping up its per day coal production from 1.94 million to 2 million tonnes within a week. Government sources told ANI that there is no shortage in the daily supply of coal to states and power companies and it is maintaining 5 days stock. In a month's time situation will be back to normal. Also Read | Chinese coal prices reach an all-time high, power outages persist There are multiple reasons for the current scenario. Government source told ANI, "Since January coal ministry has been writing to various states to pick up and stock coal in their respective states but no one paid heed. Coal India can stock up to a limit. If we stock more coal than the limit there is a risk of fire. "Rajasthan, West Bengal, Jharkhand have their own mines but they did little to extract coal. It is learnt that despite clearances some of the state governments sat on decisions and gave COVID and rains as a reason for not doing enough mining. Prolonged monsoon affected the mining and the shooting prices of imported coal also contributed to the current situation. There is a 12 per cent fall in imports of foreign coal which power companies blend, to cut losses due to high prices they also shifted to domestic coal.States have huge pending dues of Coal India on them. Also Read | India's coal crisis: 115 out of 135 power plants face shortage It is learnt from sources that Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu are big defaulters. All States have to dues of Rs 20,000 crores to be paid to Coal India. Government sources said despite large sums of dues, supply continues and it will continue to provide power and coal supplies. Electrification of villages and industrialisation has also shot up the demand. Government source told ANI that Delhi and Punjab shut coal plants like in Ropar and Bhatinda.

India to increase coal production to two million tonnes per day in a week's time

Thousands of Tunisians opposing President Kais Saied's seizure of almost total power protested in the capital on Sunday as a very heavy police presence tried to stop them advancing along the central Habib Bourguiba Avenue.

A week after thousands demonstrated in support of Saied, the growing number of protesters on each side raises the possibility of Tunisia's political divisions spiralling into street confrontations between the two camps.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mind-your-uterus-protests-erupt-in-us-against-anti-abortion-laws-417793">&nbsp;'Mind your uterus': Protests erupt in US against anti-abortion laws</a>

"We will not accept the coup. Enough is enough," said Yassin ben Amor, a protester.

Police blocked the march without violence, as some demonstrators threw plastic bottles.

Saied dismissed the prime minister, suspended parliament and assumed executive authority in July in moves his foes call a coup.

Last month he brushed aside much of the constitution, which he said he would appoint a committee to amend, adding that he could rule by decree.

His intervention has cast into doubt the democratic gains made by Tunisians during a 2011 revolution that triggered the Arab Spring uprisings.

He has appointed Najla Bouden Romdhane as prime minister, but she has not yet named a government, an important precursor to any efforts to resolve Tunisia's looming crisis in public finances, though Saied said on Saturday he would do so soon.

Saied said he would initiate a dialogue with the Tunisian people and youth representatives, particularly from the regions, over the future during a meeting on Saturday with interim interior minister Ridha Gharsalaoui.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protests-against-president-bolsonaro-spread-across-brazil-417784">Protests against President Bolsonaro spread across Brazil</a>

Interior Ministry spokesman Khaled Hayouni said the police would deal with protesters from both sides in the same way. "The Tunisian police is a republican police and it does not intervene in any political side," he said.

Any dialogue that does not include major political parties or other established elements of civil society, such as the powerful labour union, would likely prompt more open opposition to his moves.

Western donors, needed to avert a collapse in Tunisia's public finances, have called for an inclusive process to end the crisis period, along with a clear timeline.

With the political manoeuvering over Tunisia's future moving very slowly, Saied has pointed to the street mobilisation to support his position.

Last week more than 8,000 demonstrators rallied in Tunis in support of Saied, Reuters journalists and the state news agency said, while the Interior Ministry said about 5,000 had attended. The next day, Saied said 1.8 million people had come out to back him. 
&nbsp;

Thousands of Tunisians opposing President Kais Saied's seizure of almost total power protested in the capital on Sunday as a very heavy police presence tried to stop them advancing along the central Habib Bourguiba Avenue.

Thousands of Tunisians opposing President Kais Saied's seizure of almost total power protested in the capital on Sunday as a very heavy police presence tried to stop them advancing along the central Habib Bourguiba Avenue. A week after thousands demonstrated in support of Saied, the growing number of protesters on each side raises the possibility of Tunisia's political divisions spiralling into street confrontations between the two camps. Also Read | 'Mind your uterus': Protests erupt in US against anti-abortion laws "We will not accept the coup. Enough is enough," said Yassin ben Amor, a protester. Police blocked the march without violence, as some demonstrators threw plastic bottles. Saied dismissed the prime minister, suspended parliament and assumed executive authority in July in moves his foes call a coup. Last month he brushed aside much of the constitution, which he said he would appoint a committee to amend, adding that he could rule by decree. His intervention has cast into doubt the democratic gains made by Tunisians during a 2011 revolution that triggered the Arab Spring uprisings. He has appointed Najla Bouden Romdhane as prime minister, but she has not yet named a government, an important precursor to any efforts to resolve Tunisia's looming crisis in public finances, though Saied said on Saturday he would do so soon. Saied said he would initiate a dialogue with the Tunisian people and youth representatives, particularly from the regions, over the future during a meeting on Saturday with interim interior minister Ridha Gharsalaoui. Also Read | Protests against President Bolsonaro spread across Brazil Interior Ministry spokesman Khaled Hayouni said the police would deal with protesters from both sides in the same way. "The Tunisian police is a republican police and it does not intervene in any political side," he said. Any dialogue that does not include major political parties or other established elements of civil society, such as the powerful labour union, would likely prompt more open opposition to his moves. Western donors, needed to avert a collapse in Tunisia's public finances, have called for an inclusive process to end the crisis period, along with a clear timeline. With the political manoeuvering over Tunisia's future moving very slowly, Saied has pointed to the street mobilisation to support his position. Last week more than 8,000 demonstrators rallied in Tunis in support of Saied, Reuters journalists and the state news agency said, while the Interior Ministry said about 5,000 had attended. The next day, Saied said 1.8 million people had come out to back him.

Thousands protest against Tunisia leader with government awaited

Boko Haram islamists killed five Cameroonian soldiers and a civilian in an attack in the far north of the country, the defence ministry said Tuesday.

The attack took place on Monday night near the border with Nigeria, where operations by the Islamist group have been on the rise.

Three soldiers and one civilian were also wounded in the attack, the statement read on state radio said.

A group "of heavily armed terrorists of the Boko Haram sect, aboard several light tactical vehicles, attacked the command post... near Zigue", a few kilometres from the border with Nigeria, the statement said.

Some militants were also killed the statement added, without elaborating.&nbsp;

"Troops remain on high alert throughout the far north and across the border to prevent further attacks," it said. The group appears to have "regained strength following internal restructuring", it added.

Members of Boko Haram and a splinter group, the Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP), have been mounting increasingly deadly attacks against security forces and civilians in the far north of Cameroon, as well as in neighbouring Nigeria, Niger and Chad.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boko-haram-fighters-pledge-allegiance-to-islamic-state-in-video-worrying-observers-394384">Also read |&nbsp;Boko Haram fighters pledge allegiance to Islamic State in video, worrying observers</a>

They frequently abduct civilians, especially women and children.

Boko Haram fighters killed eight Cameroonian soldiers on Saturday in Sagme, a few dozen kilometres from the border with Nigeria.&nbsp;

Their insurgency began in 2009 in northeastern Nigeria before spreading through the region.

Since then, more than 36,000 people -- mainly in Nigeria -- have been killed, and three million forced to flee their homes, according to UN estimates.

In 2016, the group split into two branches: the faction led by its long-time leader, Abubakar Shekau, and ISWAP, affiliated with the Islamic State group.&nbsp;

Boko Haram confirmed in mid-June that Shekau had been killed in fighting with ISWAP.

Boko Haram islamists killed five Cameroonian soldiers and a civilian in an attack in the far north of the country, the defence ministry said Tuesday. The attack took place on Monday night near the border with Nigeria, where operations by the Islamist group have been on the rise.

Boko Haram islamists killed five Cameroonian soldiers and a civilian in an attack in the far north of the country, the defence ministry said Tuesday. The attack took place on Monday night near the border with Nigeria, where operations by the Islamist group have been on the rise. Three soldiers and one civilian were also wounded in the attack, the statement read on state radio said. A group "of heavily armed terrorists of the Boko Haram sect, aboard several light tactical vehicles, attacked the command post... near Zigue", a few kilometres from the border with Nigeria, the statement said. Some militants were also killed the statement added, without elaborating. "Troops remain on high alert throughout the far north and across the border to prevent further attacks," it said. The group appears to have "regained strength following internal restructuring", it added. Members of Boko Haram and a splinter group, the Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP), have been mounting increasingly deadly attacks against security forces and civilians in the far north of Cameroon, as well as in neighbouring Nigeria, Niger and Chad. Also read | Boko Haram fighters pledge allegiance to Islamic State in video, worrying observers They frequently abduct civilians, especially women and children. Boko Haram fighters killed eight Cameroonian soldiers on Saturday in Sagme, a few dozen kilometres from the border with Nigeria. Their insurgency began in 2009 in northeastern Nigeria before spreading through the region. Since then, more than 36,000 people -- mainly in Nigeria -- have been killed, and three million forced to flee their homes, according to UN estimates. In 2016, the group split into two branches: the faction led by its long-time leader, Abubakar Shekau, and ISWAP, affiliated with the Islamic State group. Boko Haram confirmed in mid-June that Shekau had been killed in fighting with ISWAP.

Boko Haram Cameroon attack kills five soldiers, civilian, says government

Spain votes again on Sunday, six months after an inconclusive election which saw parties unable to agree on a coalition government.

Here are the key numbers of the election:

4 -- the main candidates standing in the election. Acting Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, 61, of the conservative Popular Party (PP) faces three younger challengers, the same ones as in the December election: Socialist Pedro Sanchez, 44, 37-year-old Pablo Iglesias of far-left coalition Unidos Podemos and Albert Rivera, 36, of market-friendly Ciudadanos.

176 -- the number of seats needed to form an absolute majority in Spain&#39;s 350-seat lower house of parliament. Polls indicate no party will win an absolute majority on its own.

Most suggest the PP and its natural ally centre-right Ciudadanos will not win an absolute majority even if they form a coalition, nor will the two leftist parties -- the Socialists and Unidos Podemos.

131 -- the number of lawmakers who voted on March 4 in favour of Sanchez&#39;s attempt to form a centre-left coalition government following the December polls. The remaining 219 lawmakers voted against.

189 -- the number of days between the two elections. During this time Rajoy&#39;s government remained in power in a caretaker capacity with limited powers and could not approve projects that involve new spending. Spain is far from the example set by Belgium which went 541 days without a fully functioning government following the 2010 election -- a European record.

11 -- the number of groupings that make up far-left coalition Unidos Podemos. The main parties are anti-austerity Podemos, an ally of Greece&#39;s ruling Syriza, and Izquierda Unida, the heirs of Spain&#39;s Communist party. The two parties stood separately in the last election.

47 -- the number of seats up for grabs in Spain&#39;s wealthy northeastern region of Catalonia, where a pro-independence movement has gathered pace.

After December polls, 17 elected separatist lawmakers from this region contributed to Spain&#39;s political stalemate by demanding an independence referendum in exchange for their support for a new government -- a demand rejected by three of the four main parties.

5 -- the number of times Spaniards have been called to the polls since 2014. They voted in European Parliament elections in May 2014, regional elections in 15 of Spain&#39;s 17 semi-autonomous regions in 2015, municipal elections in May 2015 and general elections in December -- to be repeated on Sunday.

22.7 -- the percentage of votes lost by the PP and Socialists between polls in 2011 and 2015, as upstarts Podemos and Ciudadanos leapt onto the scene and gnawed away at their support base, putting an end to the country&#39;s two-party dominance.

73.2 -- the voter turnout in the December election. Polls indicate the turnout could drop to between 64.6 per cent and 72 per cent this time round.

36,518,100 -- the number of eligible voters in Sunday&#39;s election -- 7,148 more than in December. 
 
(AFP)

Voters go back to the polls six months after parties were unable to agree on a coalition goverment

Spain votes again on Sunday, six months after an inconclusive election which saw parties unable to agree on a coalition government. Here are the key numbers of the election: 4 -- the main candidates standing in the election. Acting Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, 61, of the conservative Popular Party (PP) faces three younger challengers, the same ones as in the December election: Socialist Pedro Sanchez, 44, 37-year-old Pablo Iglesias of far-left coalition Unidos Podemos and Albert Rivera, 36, of market-friendly Ciudadanos. 176 -- the number of seats needed to form an absolute majority in Spain's 350-seat lower house of parliament. Polls indicate no party will win an absolute majority on its own. Most suggest the PP and its natural ally centre-right Ciudadanos will not win an absolute majority even if they form a coalition, nor will the two leftist parties -- the Socialists and Unidos Podemos. 131 -- the number of lawmakers who voted on March 4 in favour of Sanchez's attempt to form a centre-left coalition government following the December polls. The remaining 219 lawmakers voted against. 189 -- the number of days between the two elections. During this time Rajoy's government remained in power in a caretaker capacity with limited powers and could not approve projects that involve new spending. Spain is far from the example set by Belgium which went 541 days without a fully functioning government following the 2010 election -- a European record. 11 -- the number of groupings that make up far-left coalition Unidos Podemos. The main parties are anti-austerity Podemos, an ally of Greece's ruling Syriza, and Izquierda Unida, the heirs of Spain's Communist party. The two parties stood separately in the last election. 47 -- the number of seats up for grabs in Spain's wealthy northeastern region of Catalonia, where a pro-independence movement has gathered pace. After December polls, 17 elected separatist lawmakers from this region contributed to Spain's political stalemate by demanding an independence referendum in exchange for their support for a new government -- a demand rejected by three of the four main parties. 5 -- the number of times Spaniards have been called to the polls since 2014. They voted in European Parliament elections in May 2014, regional elections in 15 of Spain's 17 semi-autonomous regions in 2015, municipal elections in May 2015 and general elections in December -- to be repeated on Sunday. 22.7 -- the percentage of votes lost by the PP and Socialists between polls in 2011 and 2015, as upstarts Podemos and Ciudadanos leapt onto the scene and gnawed away at their support base, putting an end to the country's two-party dominance. 73.2 -- the voter turnout in the December election. Polls indicate the turnout could drop to between 64.6 per cent and 72 per cent this time round. 36,518,100 -- the number of eligible voters in Sunday's election -- 7,148 more than in December. (AFP)

Key facts about Spain's Sunday election

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