Supporters of Azzedine Mihoubi, a former Algerian culture minister who is running for president in December's election, gathered on Wednesday (December 4) for a rally as the corruption trial of senior officials including two former prime ministers began.

'Algeria needs all its children,' says Mihoubi supporters as election looms

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protests-in-colombia-spark-backlash-against-venezuelan-migrants-265637">The Colombian government</a> said Monday it is prepared to meet with leaders of the anti-government protest movement but asked they cancel a national demonstration scheduled for Wednesday.

The protests, which are entering their 12th consecutive day, have drawn anywhere from hundreds to several thousand people who often bang pots and pans as they demand right-wing president Ivan Duque change his policies.

"We are ready to meet with them this afternoon or tomorrow to discuss" their complaints, Diego Molano, a senior official in Duque's government-appointed to lead the government's negotiations, told reporters.

The National Strike Committee,&nbsp;which groups unions, students, university lecturers and indigenous groups,&nbsp;had in an open letter called on Friday for an "inclusive, democratic and effective dialogue," while also vowing to continue protesting Duque's announcement of a "national dialogue" earlier last week.

Molano asked <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-strikers-expand-demands-include-possible-talks-with-rebels-265296">protest leaders</a> to cancel plans for a December 4 demonstration in an attempt to reduce the protests' effects on pre-Christmas commercial activity.

"We tell the National Strike Committee that President Duque's government is fully prepared to engage in dialogue, without an ultimatum, without pressure, for the good of&nbsp;Colombia," he said.

Protest organisers have yet to respond to his demand.

The committee has called for two other national demonstrations since the November 21 launch of Duque's national dialogue, while not associating itself with the smaller daily demonstrations in major cities Bogota, Medellin or Cali.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-protest-leaders-push-duque-on-dialogue-265184">Strike leaders</a> had previously met with Duque's government on November 26, where they presented the president with a list of 13 demands, including the withdrawal of his proposed tax reforms, and full compliance with the 2016 peace deal with FARC guerrillas.

But perhaps the most controversial is the call to dismantle the feared ESMAD riot police, after the death last week of 18-year-old protester Dilan Cruz, who was hit in the head by a tear gas canister.

Duque has yielded to some of the demands on tax reform, announcing the refund of Value Added Tax to the poorest 20 per cent of the population and benefits for companies that hire young people.

Colombia&nbsp;is the fourth-largest economy in Latin America and also one of the most socially unequal countries on the continent.

The Colombian government said Monday it is prepared to meet with leaders of the anti-government protest movement but asked they cancel a national demonstration scheduled for Wednesday.

The Colombian government said Monday it is prepared to meet with leaders of the anti-government protest movement but asked they cancel a national demonstration scheduled for Wednesday. The protests, which are entering their 12th consecutive day, have drawn anywhere from hundreds to several thousand people who often bang pots and pans as they demand right-wing president Ivan Duque change his policies. "We are ready to meet with them this afternoon or tomorrow to discuss" their complaints, Diego Molano, a senior official in Duque's government-appointed to lead the government's negotiations, told reporters. The National Strike Committee, which groups unions, students, university lecturers and indigenous groups, had in an open letter called on Friday for an "inclusive, democratic and effective dialogue," while also vowing to continue protesting Duque's announcement of a "national dialogue" earlier last week. Molano asked protest leaders to cancel plans for a December 4 demonstration in an attempt to reduce the protests' effects on pre-Christmas commercial activity. "We tell the National Strike Committee that President Duque's government is fully prepared to engage in dialogue, without an ultimatum, without pressure, for the good of Colombia," he said. Protest organisers have yet to respond to his demand. The committee has called for two other national demonstrations since the November 21 launch of Duque's national dialogue, while not associating itself with the smaller daily demonstrations in major cities Bogota, Medellin or Cali. Strike leaders had previously met with Duque's government on November 26, where they presented the president with a list of 13 demands, including the withdrawal of his proposed tax reforms, and full compliance with the 2016 peace deal with FARC guerrillas. But perhaps the most controversial is the call to dismantle the feared ESMAD riot police, after the death last week of 18-year-old protester Dilan Cruz, who was hit in the head by a tear gas canister. Duque has yielded to some of the demands on tax reform, announcing the refund of Value Added Tax to the poorest 20 per cent of the population and benefits for companies that hire young people. Colombia is the fourth-largest economy in Latin America and also one of the most socially unequal countries on the continent.

'Ready to meet' with protest leaders: Colombian government

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-fire-tear-gas-to-disperse-anti-government-protesters-265558">Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;protesters</a> geared up for a week of lunchtime rallies on Monday, a day after a mass demonstration showed the anti-government movement can still draw people to the streets even after sweeping recent gains by democrats in district elections.

After a rare lull in demonstrations following the polls, police on Sunday fired tear gas to disperse thousands of anti-government protesters as residents chanted "revolution of our time" and "liberate&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong".

Protesters are planning two-hour rallies at lunchtime for the next five days in the Asian financial hub's central business district, according to online posts.

The protests have drawn in a wide swathe of&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;society - from students to pensioners and office workers. The lunchtime rallies in Central were aimed at drawing in white-collar professionals, who occasionally have blocked roads over the past few weeks, leading to some face-offs with police.

The Sunday protest in the busy shopping district of Tsim Sha Tsui followed a "thanksgiving" march by hundreds to the US&nbsp;consulate to show gratitude for US&nbsp;support for the demonstrations that have agitated the Chinese-ruled city for about six months.

Watch: Protesters march for 'five demands'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-protesters-march-for-five-demands-265555/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Shops and businesses in Tsim Sha Tsui closed early as police sprayed volleys of tear gas at demonstrators, including some elderly residents and others with their pets, as they marched past the city's Kowloon waterfront, home to luxury hotels and shopping malls.

Police made several arrests as the tear gas sent hundreds fleeing towards the harbour.

While the November 24 district elections delivered an overwhelming victory to pro-democracy candidates, activists have pledged to maintain the momentum of the anti-government movement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pensioners-and-students-gather-for-hong-kong-protest-265423">The protesters' demands</a> include an end to Beijing's alleged meddling in the freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997, universal suffrage and an inquiry into police use of force.

The unrest since June has at times forced the closure of government offices, businesses, schools and the international airport, helping drive the city into recession for the first time in a decade in the third quarter.

Hong Kong protesters geared up for a week of lunchtime rallies on Monday, a day after a mass demonstration showed the anti-government movement can still draw people to the streets even after sweeping recent gains by democrats in district elections.

Hong Kong protesters geared up for a week of lunchtime rallies on Monday, a day after a mass demonstration showed the anti-government movement can still draw people to the streets even after sweeping recent gains by democrats in district elections. After a rare lull in demonstrations following the polls, police on Sunday fired tear gas to disperse thousands of anti-government protesters as residents chanted "revolution of our time" and "liberate Hong Kong". Protesters are planning two-hour rallies at lunchtime for the next five days in the Asian financial hub's central business district, according to online posts. The protests have drawn in a wide swathe of Hong Kong society - from students to pensioners and office workers. The lunchtime rallies in Central were aimed at drawing in white-collar professionals, who occasionally have blocked roads over the past few weeks, leading to some face-offs with police. The Sunday protest in the busy shopping district of Tsim Sha Tsui followed a "thanksgiving" march by hundreds to the US consulate to show gratitude for US support for the demonstrations that have agitated the Chinese-ruled city for about six months. Watch: Protesters march for 'five demands' Shops and businesses in Tsim Sha Tsui closed early as police sprayed volleys of tear gas at demonstrators, including some elderly residents and others with their pets, as they marched past the city's Kowloon waterfront, home to luxury hotels and shopping malls. Police made several arrests as the tear gas sent hundreds fleeing towards the harbour. While the November 24 district elections delivered an overwhelming victory to pro-democracy candidates, activists have pledged to maintain the momentum of the anti-government movement. The protesters' demands include an end to Beijing's alleged meddling in the freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997, universal suffrage and an inquiry into police use of force. The unrest since June has at times forced the closure of government offices, businesses, schools and the international airport, helping drive the city into recession for the first time in a decade in the third quarter.

Hong Kong: New rallies to take place today after weekend of unrest

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said Sunday that former Bolivian leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolivias-congress-approves-law-for-new-elections-without-morales-264143">Evo&nbsp;Morales</a>&nbsp;was the "victim&nbsp;of a&nbsp;coup d'etat."

The leftist president, nicknamed&nbsp;AMLO, celebrated his first year in office with a speech to throngs of supporters in Mexico City.

While detailing budget and tax policies, and the ongoing fight against corruption, Lopez Obrador touched on Mexico's foreign policy by recalling his government's decision to accept&nbsp;Morales&nbsp;as an asylum seeker.

"Evo was the&nbsp;victim&nbsp;of a&nbsp;coup d'etat! And from Mexico, we tell the world, 'Yes to democracy, no to militarism!'"&nbsp;AMLO&nbsp;said&nbsp;during&nbsp;the rally in the central Plaza del Zocalo.

The square was packed with people, and musical groups performed alongside&nbsp;AMLO's speech.

It also marked the first time that Lopez Obrador, who has been in office for a year, spoke directly about the circumstances that led to&nbsp;Morales's departure from Bolivia.

Morales&nbsp;resigned on November 10 amid swelling protests over what political opponents said was his rigging of October 20 elections.

He fled to Mexico the following day after losing the support of the military and police, claiming to be the&nbsp;victim&nbsp;of a&nbsp;coup.

While echoing&nbsp;Morales's claim Sunday,&nbsp;AMLO&nbsp;called the exiled leader "our brother, who represents with dignity the majority of indigenous people of Bolivia."

Morales&nbsp;has yet to meet publicly with Lopez Obrador. He was welcomed on arrival to Mexico by Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard.

Lopez Obrador's one-year anniversary was marred by a shootout Saturday afternoon near the US border between suspected drug traffickers and police, leaving 20 dead.

Police reported earlier that 21 people had been killed but subsequently corrected the number.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolivian-police-battle-with-morales-supporters-death-toll-jumps-262628">Shooting continued into early Sunday</a>, and authorities said that four of those killed were police, 14 were suspected criminals and another three bodies were unidentified.

The shootout comes after Lopez Obrador warned he would not allow the US to conduct cross-border armed operations against drug cartels in the country.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said Sunday that former Bolivian leader Evo Morales was the "victim of a coup d'etat." The leftist president, nicknamed AMLO, celebrated his first year in office with a speech to throngs of supporters in Mexico City.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said Sunday that former Bolivian leader Evo Morales was the "victim of a coup d'etat." The leftist president, nicknamed AMLO, celebrated his first year in office with a speech to throngs of supporters in Mexico City. While detailing budget and tax policies, and the ongoing fight against corruption, Lopez Obrador touched on Mexico's foreign policy by recalling his government's decision to accept Morales as an asylum seeker. "Evo was the victim of a coup d'etat! And from Mexico, we tell the world, 'Yes to democracy, no to militarism!'" AMLO said during the rally in the central Plaza del Zocalo. The square was packed with people, and musical groups performed alongside AMLO's speech. It also marked the first time that Lopez Obrador, who has been in office for a year, spoke directly about the circumstances that led to Morales's departure from Bolivia. Morales resigned on November 10 amid swelling protests over what political opponents said was his rigging of October 20 elections. He fled to Mexico the following day after losing the support of the military and police, claiming to be the victim of a coup. While echoing Morales's claim Sunday, AMLO called the exiled leader "our brother, who represents with dignity the majority of indigenous people of Bolivia." Morales has yet to meet publicly with Lopez Obrador. He was welcomed on arrival to Mexico by Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard. Lopez Obrador's one-year anniversary was marred by a shootout Saturday afternoon near the US border between suspected drug traffickers and police, leaving 20 dead. Police reported earlier that 21 people had been killed but subsequently corrected the number. Shooting continued into early Sunday, and authorities said that four of those killed were police, 14 were suspected criminals and another three bodies were unidentified. The shootout comes after Lopez Obrador warned he would not allow the US to conduct cross-border armed operations against drug cartels in the country.

Morales' victim of coup: Mexican president AMLO

Consumers have been badly hit by the rising price of onions in Thiruvananthapuram which crossed Rs 100 per kilogram.

People are now trying to cut down on the kitchen staple whose price has been going up for the past two months.

"I bought onions today because we cannot avoid using it. It is difficult to buy onions for 100 rupees. We are labourers and something has to be done to reduce the price. For the last two months, the price of onions has been really high. We are trying to minimise its usage. The government is not intervening. It should take action to reduce the price," a customer Seethalekshmi told ANI.

In the market, the wholesale rate of onion is Rs 97- Rs 100 per kilogram. In retail shops, they sell for 100-110 a kilogram.

"The price of onions has crossed 100 rupees and shallots cost 55 rupees for 1/4 kilogram. People can't avoid it so they have reduced their consumption to half. Some people used to buy five kilograms a month, and now they buy only two kilograms," Noufal, a trader said.

The price of onions has shot up in many parts of the country. Earlier on November 20, the union cabinet approved the import of 1.2 lakh metric tonnes onion in view of its high prices in the market.

"The cabinet has given its approval to the import of 1.2 lakh metric tonnes of onion," Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman told reporters after a meeting of the union cabinet.

The government has also been holding regular meetings on ways to check the rising price of onions.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Consumers have been badly hit by the rising price of onions in Thiruvananthapuram which crossed Rs 100 per kilogram. People are now trying to cut down on the kitchen staple whose price has been going up for the past two months.

Consumers have been badly hit by the rising price of onions in Thiruvananthapuram which crossed Rs 100 per kilogram. People are now trying to cut down on the kitchen staple whose price has been going up for the past two months. "I bought onions today because we cannot avoid using it. It is difficult to buy onions for 100 rupees. We are labourers and something has to be done to reduce the price. For the last two months, the price of onions has been really high. We are trying to minimise its usage. The government is not intervening. It should take action to reduce the price," a customer Seethalekshmi told ANI. In the market, the wholesale rate of onion is Rs 97- Rs 100 per kilogram. In retail shops, they sell for 100-110 a kilogram. "The price of onions has crossed 100 rupees and shallots cost 55 rupees for 1/4 kilogram. People can't avoid it so they have reduced their consumption to half. Some people used to buy five kilograms a month, and now they buy only two kilograms," Noufal, a trader said. The price of onions has shot up in many parts of the country. Earlier on November 20, the union cabinet approved the import of 1.2 lakh metric tonnes onion in view of its high prices in the market. "The cabinet has given its approval to the import of 1.2 lakh metric tonnes of onion," Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman told reporters after a meeting of the union cabinet. The government has also been holding regular meetings on ways to check the rising price of onions.

Kerala: Onion prices shoot up in Thiruvananthapuram, consumers seek government action

Shiv Sena president and&nbsp;chief ministerial candidate of Sena-NCP-Congress alliance Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday staked his claim to form the government in Maharashtra before Governor BS Koshyari.

The Shiv Sena chief will be sworn in on November 28 at Shivaji Park, the party announced after his visit to the Raj Bhavan.

Earlier on the day, Devendra Fadnavis submitted his resignation as the CM of Maharashtra to the Governor BS Koshyari.&nbsp;

Addressing a press conference before his resignation, Fadnavis said Ajit Pawar has also quit as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra.

He also said that the party formed the government after it received assurance from NCP chief Sharad Pawar that NCP will support the BJP. He added that when Ajit Pawar submitted his resignation today, they then took a call that will also not continue to remain in power.

On November 23, in a massive turn of events, Devendra Fadnavis took oath as CM of Maharashtra in the wee hours. NCP's Ajit Pawar was also sworn in as deputy CM.&nbsp;

The swearing-in ceremony came at a time when NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena were finalising a deal to form government in the state. After the ceremony, NCP chief clarified that the party is not with BJP and will form an alliance with Congress and NCP.

(With inputs from agencies)

Shiv Sena president and chief ministerial candidate of Sena-NCP-Congress alliance Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday staked his claim to form the government in Maharashtra before Governor BS Koshyari.

Shiv Sena president and chief ministerial candidate of Sena-NCP-Congress alliance Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday staked his claim to form the government in Maharashtra before Governor BS Koshyari. The Shiv Sena chief will be sworn in on November 28 at Shivaji Park, the party announced after his visit to the Raj Bhavan. Earlier on the day, Devendra Fadnavis submitted his resignation as the CM of Maharashtra to the Governor BS Koshyari. Addressing a press conference before his resignation, Fadnavis said Ajit Pawar has also quit as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra. He also said that the party formed the government after it received assurance from NCP chief Sharad Pawar that NCP will support the BJP. He added that when Ajit Pawar submitted his resignation today, they then took a call that will also not continue to remain in power. On November 23, in a massive turn of events, Devendra Fadnavis took oath as CM of Maharashtra in the wee hours. NCP's Ajit Pawar was also sworn in as deputy CM. The swearing-in ceremony came at a time when NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena were finalising a deal to form government in the state. After the ceremony, NCP chief clarified that the party is not with BJP and will form an alliance with Congress and NCP. (With inputs from agencies)

Uddhav Thackeray to take oath as Maharashtra chief minister on November 28

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fuel-supply-to-air-india-stopped-at-six-domestic-airports-report-244881">Air India</a> is not privatised then from where the money would come for it to function?" said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/appalled-by-uk-mps-statement-on-article-370-union-minister-hardeep-puri-245232">Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri</a> on Wednesday.

"If it (Air India) is not privatised then from where the money would come to for it to function? Earlier we used to go to the finance ministry to make up the operating loss. We are not getting any money from the finance ministry, we have to go to banks," Puri told ANI when asked about Air India disinvestment.

"The condition of Air India today is that it is a first-class asset. If we sell it now then bidders would come. If we take ideological positions that we don't want to sell it then it would be difficult to run it in the future," he said.

When asked people employed by Air India, Puri said: "We are committed to them to get a fair deal. 11,000 and 4,000 on contract include trained engineers. Those who would acquire the airline would also require these trained people."

Earlier in August this year, the Civil Aviation Minister had said that the government is determined to privatise Air India and people are interested in buying it.

The Parliament on August 3 passed the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/monsoon-session-parliament-set-for-yet-another-centre-vs-opposition-battle-152493"> Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India</a> (Amendment) Bill, 2019, that increases the threshold of annual passenger traffic for major airports to over 35 lakh with Civil Aviation stating that the government was committed to privatisation of Air India as its debt has become totally unsustainable.

The Bill, which seeks to amend the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India Act, 2008, had earlier been passed by Rajya Sabha.

Air India is not privatised then from where the money would come for it to function?" said Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Wednesday. "If it (Air India) is not privatised then from where the money would come to for it to function?

Air India is not privatised then from where the money would come for it to function?" said Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Wednesday. "If it (Air India) is not privatised then from where the money would come to for it to function? Earlier we used to go to the finance ministry to make up the operating loss. We are not getting any money from the finance ministry, we have to go to banks," Puri told ANI when asked about Air India disinvestment. "The condition of Air India today is that it is a first-class asset. If we sell it now then bidders would come. If we take ideological positions that we don't want to sell it then it would be difficult to run it in the future," he said. When asked people employed by Air India, Puri said: "We are committed to them to get a fair deal. 11,000 and 4,000 on contract include trained engineers. Those who would acquire the airline would also require these trained people." Earlier in August this year, the Civil Aviation Minister had said that the government is determined to privatise Air India and people are interested in buying it. The Parliament on August 3 passed the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (Amendment) Bill, 2019, that increases the threshold of annual passenger traffic for major airports to over 35 lakh with Civil Aviation stating that the government was committed to privatisation of Air India as its debt has become totally unsustainable. The Bill, which seeks to amend the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India Act, 2008, had earlier been passed by Rajya Sabha.

Will be difficult for Air India to function if it not privatised: Aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri

The Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-congress-sena-ncp-will-meet-governor-tomorrow-to-form-government-in-the-state-says-prithviraj-chavan-264719">Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP </a>will stake claim to form the next government in Maharasthra and pending Governor's approval is set to be sworn in here on December 1, according to NCP supremo Sharad Pawar.

The announcement came more than a month after the results for the Assembly elections in the state ending weeks of flip flop over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ajit-pawar-resigns-as-deputy-chief-minister-of-maharashtra-sources-264628">government </a>formation in the state.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Shiv Sena chief and Chief Minister candidate of 'Maha Vikas Aghadi', Uddhav Thackeray: We will make this Maharashtra once again that Maharashtra which Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj dreamt of. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a> <a href="https://t.co/qdrWe4G7OY">pic.twitter.com/qdrWe4G7OY</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1199340673352130560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Three representatives of 'Maha Vikas Aghadi' will meet the Governor today. Swearing-in ceremony to be held at Shivaji Park, Mumbai on December 1," NCP chief Sharad Pawar said during a joint meeting of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP MLAs at a hotel here.

The meeting saw all legislators pass a unanimous resolution supporting Uddhav Thackeray's name as the chief ministerial candidate and the leader of 'Maha Vikas Aghadi'.

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Shiv Sena chief and CM candidate of 'Maha Vikas Aghadi', Uddhav Thackeray: I accept the responsibility given by all of you. I'm not alone but you all are CM with me. What has happened today is the actual democracy. Together we will wipe off the tears of farmers in the state. <a href="https://t.co/dUtxW3a4nS">pic.twitter.com/dUtxW3a4nS</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1199339535961751554?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The development comes after Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar resigned as the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, merely three days after they were administered the oath.

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Devendra Fadnavis resigns as the Chief Minister of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a>. <a href="https://t.co/45ysg3CMx3">pic.twitter.com/45ysg3CMx3</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1199269299157794822?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Congress new legislature wing leader Balasaheb Thorat endorsed the resolution moved by NCP leader Jayant Patil proposing Uddhav's name.

"I had never dreamed of leading the state. I would like to thank Sonia Gandhi and others. We are giving a new direction to the country by keeping faith on each other," Uddhav Thackeray said while addressing the gathering.

Shiv Sena confirmed that the Uddhav and other Maha Vikas Aghadi leaders will meet the governor later tonight and stake the claim to form the government.

On Wednesday in a special assembly session protem Speaker Kalidas Kolambkar is expected to swear in the new MLAs.

The Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP will stake claim to form the next government in Maharasthra and pending Governor's approval is set to be sworn in here on December 1, according to NCP supremo Sharad Pawar.

The Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP will stake claim to form the next government in Maharasthra and pending Governor's approval is set to be sworn in here on December 1, according to NCP supremo Sharad Pawar. The announcement came more than a month after the results for the Assembly elections in the state ending weeks of flip flop over government formation in the state. Shiv Sena chief and Chief Minister candidate of 'Maha Vikas Aghadi', Uddhav Thackeray: We will make this Maharashtra once again that Maharashtra which Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj dreamt of. #Maharashtra pic.twitter.com/qdrWe4G7OY — ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2019 × "Three representatives of 'Maha Vikas Aghadi' will meet the Governor today. Swearing-in ceremony to be held at Shivaji Park, Mumbai on December 1," NCP chief Sharad Pawar said during a joint meeting of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP MLAs at a hotel here. The meeting saw all legislators pass a unanimous resolution supporting Uddhav Thackeray's name as the chief ministerial candidate and the leader of 'Maha Vikas Aghadi'. Shiv Sena chief and CM candidate of 'Maha Vikas Aghadi', Uddhav Thackeray: I accept the responsibility given by all of you. I'm not alone but you all are CM with me. What has happened today is the actual democracy. Together we will wipe off the tears of farmers in the state. pic.twitter.com/dUtxW3a4nS — ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2019 × The development comes after Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar resigned as the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, merely three days after they were administered the oath. Devendra Fadnavis resigns as the Chief Minister of #Maharashtra. pic.twitter.com/45ysg3CMx3 — ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2019 × Congress new legislature wing leader Balasaheb Thorat endorsed the resolution moved by NCP leader Jayant Patil proposing Uddhav's name. "I had never dreamed of leading the state. I would like to thank Sonia Gandhi and others. We are giving a new direction to the country by keeping faith on each other," Uddhav Thackeray said while addressing the gathering. Shiv Sena confirmed that the Uddhav and other Maha Vikas Aghadi leaders will meet the governor later tonight and stake the claim to form the government. On Wednesday in a special assembly session protem Speaker Kalidas Kolambkar is expected to swear in the new MLAs.

'Maha Vikas Aghadi' government to be sworn-in on December 1, Uddhav to lead alliance: Sharad Pawar

Bolivia slowly resumed normal activities on Monday, with schools and businesses reopening <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolivias-congress-approves-law-for-new-elections-without-morales-264143">after weeks of disruptive protests</a>, as the country prepares for new elections without ex-president Evo Morales.

Traffic was heavy in La Paz, the epicentre of demonstrations that have raged since a disputed October 20 presidential election, after gas stations were able to replenish fuel supplies.

Schools re-opened while most supermarkets and restaurants were operating normally in the seat of government as shortages eased.

"We are returning to normal after something very hard and very dramatic," interim President Jeanine Anez told reporters Monday, a day after signing a law authorizing new elections seen as crucial to ending unrest in the landlocked country.&nbsp;

Mother-of-two Jazmin Chavez said her children were pleased to be back at school after nearly a month stuck at home.&nbsp;

"They are happy, they have returned to class, they have seen their friends again," Chavez, 34, told AFP.

Blockades on major transport routes have been mostly removed, officials said, except in the central coca-growing region of Chapare, where farmers loyal to Morales continue obstructing a key highway.

They are demanding justice for nine protesters killed during clashes with police on November 15.&nbsp;

"There are still roadblocks at different points despite an agreement signed" Sunday with the government to lift them, Franz Celis, a deputy police commander in Cochabamba, told reporters. &nbsp;

Ongoing talks between the caretaker government and opposition groups in La Paz aimed at ending the country's worst crisis in 16 years appear to be defusing tensions.&nbsp;

"I've felt a peace that we haven't been able to find for a month," Silvia Maita, an auditor, told AFP.&nbsp;

"I'm happy going back to work and working normal hours. We hope it stays like this."

Hydrocarbons Minister Victor Hugo Zamora said Monday 700,000 propane gas cylinders were available in La Paz and El Alto, which had suffered severe shortages after protesters blocked a key fuel plant.&nbsp;

"We are normalizing fuel distribution," Zamora said.

"We want to convey calm and avoid the worry and despair of users." &nbsp;

Watch: Citizens go hungry as protests snarl cities in Bolivia

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bolivians-citizens-go-hungry-as-protests-snarl-cities-263283/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Elections

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolivia-police-use-tear-gas-against-protesters-carrying-coffins-263772">Dozens of people have been killed</a> since the disputed October 20 election, many of them in clashes with security forces.&nbsp;

Morales claimed victory, but opposition groups said the results had been rigged.

He fled to Mexico, where he was granted political asylum following his November 10 resignation, after losing the support of the police and military.&nbsp;

Congress on Saturday gave a green light for a new vote without Morales, Bolivia's first indigenous president. He had been seeking a fourth term after nearly 14 years as leader of the poor but resource-rich country.

Anez, a right-wing senator who declared herself interim leader after Morales quit, signed the bill into law Sunday, vowing "clean, fair and transparent" elections.

The law annuls the results of the October 20 vote and bars candidates who served in both of the two previous terms from seeking re-election for the same position.

That prevents Morales from contesting the presidency in the new ballot.

The next step will be for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolivia-president-asks-congress-to-approve-law-for-new-elections-263484">Congress to agree on a new seven-member electoral court</a> after members of the previous panel were removed for allegedly manipulating results.

The tribunal will be tasked with setting a date for the new vote, which Anez said previously she wants to happen as soon as possible.

Bolivia slowly resumed normal activities on Monday, with schools and businesses reopening after weeks of disruptive protests, as the country prepares for new elections without ex-president Evo Morales.

Bolivia slowly resumed normal activities on Monday, with schools and businesses reopening after weeks of disruptive protests, as the country prepares for new elections without ex-president Evo Morales. Traffic was heavy in La Paz, the epicentre of demonstrations that have raged since a disputed October 20 presidential election, after gas stations were able to replenish fuel supplies. Schools re-opened while most supermarkets and restaurants were operating normally in the seat of government as shortages eased. "We are returning to normal after something very hard and very dramatic," interim President Jeanine Anez told reporters Monday, a day after signing a law authorizing new elections seen as crucial to ending unrest in the landlocked country. Mother-of-two Jazmin Chavez said her children were pleased to be back at school after nearly a month stuck at home. "They are happy, they have returned to class, they have seen their friends again," Chavez, 34, told AFP. Blockades on major transport routes have been mostly removed, officials said, except in the central coca-growing region of Chapare, where farmers loyal to Morales continue obstructing a key highway. They are demanding justice for nine protesters killed during clashes with police on November 15. "There are still roadblocks at different points despite an agreement signed" Sunday with the government to lift them, Franz Celis, a deputy police commander in Cochabamba, told reporters. Ongoing talks between the caretaker government and opposition groups in La Paz aimed at ending the country's worst crisis in 16 years appear to be defusing tensions. "I've felt a peace that we haven't been able to find for a month," Silvia Maita, an auditor, told AFP. "I'm happy going back to work and working normal hours. We hope it stays like this." Hydrocarbons Minister Victor Hugo Zamora said Monday 700,000 propane gas cylinders were available in La Paz and El Alto, which had suffered severe shortages after protesters blocked a key fuel plant. "We are normalizing fuel distribution," Zamora said. "We want to convey calm and avoid the worry and despair of users." Watch: Citizens go hungry as protests snarl cities in Bolivia Elections Dozens of people have been killed since the disputed October 20 election, many of them in clashes with security forces. Morales claimed victory, but opposition groups said the results had been rigged. He fled to Mexico, where he was granted political asylum following his November 10 resignation, after losing the support of the police and military. Congress on Saturday gave a green light for a new vote without Morales, Bolivia's first indigenous president. He had been seeking a fourth term after nearly 14 years as leader of the poor but resource-rich country. Anez, a right-wing senator who declared herself interim leader after Morales quit, signed the bill into law Sunday, vowing "clean, fair and transparent" elections. The law annuls the results of the October 20 vote and bars candidates who served in both of the two previous terms from seeking re-election for the same position. That prevents Morales from contesting the presidency in the new ballot. The next step will be for Congress to agree on a new seven-member electoral court after members of the previous panel were removed for allegedly manipulating results. The tribunal will be tasked with setting a date for the new vote, which Anez said previously she wants to happen as soon as possible.

Bolivia returns to 'normal' as protests quelled

Maharashtra Political Thriller: The Story So Far.

Gravitas: Maharashtra, Politics, Opportunism, 'Stable' Government, Horse Trading....

SC Hearing on Government Formation Today. To know more watch the video

Maharashtra Political Crisis: SC Hearing on Government Formation Today

Israel's President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/israeli-president-starts-process-of-selecting-next-pm-210524">Reuven Rivlin</a> tasked parliament Thursday with finding a new prime minister, as he sought to avoid new elections after incumbent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/donald-trump-benjamin-netanyahu-encouraging-a-nuclear-race-249181">Benjamin Netanyahu</a> and rival Benny Gantz each failed to form a government.

"Starting today and for 21 days the decision of who to task with forming the government is in the hands of the members of the Knesset (parliament)," Rivlin said, a day after Gantz admitted he would be unable to build a governing coalition.

Parliament will now have until December 11 to find a candidate who can command the support of the majority of the country's 120 MPs or a new general election will be called for early 2020.

It would be the third such poll within 12 months.

Rivlin, who has been urging a compromise to break the political deadlock, met with Knesset speaker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-ngo-bill-seen-as-targeting-left-wing-groups-becomes-law-2312">Yuli Edelstein</a> Thursday and formally handed over the mandate.

It was the first time in Israeli history the president had been forced to ask parliament to find a government.

"The disruptive politics must end," Rivlin said, addressing MPs from all parties.&nbsp;

He reminded them they have a responsibility to keep the country&nbsp;running and said: "Your political fate is not more important than the fate of an old lady in a hospital."

Polls in September left Netanyahu's rightwing Likud party and Gantz's centrist Blue and White coalition near neck-and-neck.

Israel's President Reuven Rivlin tasked parliament Thursday with finding a new prime minister, as he sought to avoid new elections after incumbent Benjamin Netanyahu and rival Benny Gantz each failed to form a government.

Israel's President Reuven Rivlin tasked parliament Thursday with finding a new prime minister, as he sought to avoid new elections after incumbent Benjamin Netanyahu and rival Benny Gantz each failed to form a government. "Starting today and for 21 days the decision of who to task with forming the government is in the hands of the members of the Knesset (parliament)," Rivlin said, a day after Gantz admitted he would be unable to build a governing coalition. Parliament will now have until December 11 to find a candidate who can command the support of the majority of the country's 120 MPs or a new general election will be called for early 2020. It would be the third such poll within 12 months. Rivlin, who has been urging a compromise to break the political deadlock, met with Knesset speaker Yuli Edelstein Thursday and formally handed over the mandate. It was the first time in Israeli history the president had been forced to ask parliament to find a government. "The disruptive politics must end," Rivlin said, addressing MPs from all parties. He reminded them they have a responsibility to keep the country running and said: "Your political fate is not more important than the fate of an old lady in a hospital." Polls in September left Netanyahu's rightwing Likud party and Gantz's centrist Blue and White coalition near neck-and-neck.

Bidding to avoid elections, Israel president asks parliament to find PM

Government Shuts down Internet in Iran. To know more watch the video

WION Dispatch: Meir Javedanfar, Middle east analyst on Government Shuts down Internet in Iran

The Indian mobile industry will consolidate further if the government does not offer a material relief on adjusted gross revenue (AGR) liabilities, regulatory levies and potentially a floor on pricing, according to Kotak institutional equities.

Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) is the usage and licensing fee that telecom operators are charged by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).&nbsp;

According to the DoT, the calculations should incorporate all revenues earned by a telecom company – including from non-telecom sources such as deposit interests and sale of assets. The companies, however, have been of the view that AGR should comprise the revenues generated from telecom services only and non-telecom revenues should be kept out of it.

&nbsp;A 'no material relief' scenario would be an industry-structure-altering one, it added.

Even as the massive AGR-case-related payout is a meaty gross negative for Bharti airtel, the potential gross positive from industry consolidation will likely result in a net positive outcome, it said adding that Bharti could be a net beneficiary.

Credit Suisse noted that Vodafone's idea faced "another operationally weak quarter" and that the government relief measures are "key to sustain". Meanwhile, the Indian telecom industry scenario of heavy losses continue day after details of.&nbsp;

Losses incurred by Reliance communications in the second quarter of 2019-2020 were made public, reliance communications on Saturday said Anil Dhirubhai Ambani resigned as the company's director. Along with him, four other senior officials of reliance communications have also stepped down from their posts. These are Chhaya Virani, Ryna Karani, Manjari Kacker and Suresh Rangachar.

In the second quarter of 2019-20, reliance communications' consolidated loss stood at Rs 30,142 crore. This data was released on Friday.

The Indian mobile industry will consolidate further if the government does not offer a material relief on adjusted gross revenue (AGR) liabilities, regulatory levies and potentially a floor on pricing, according to Kotak institutional equities.

The Indian mobile industry will consolidate further if the government does not offer a material relief on adjusted gross revenue (AGR) liabilities, regulatory levies and potentially a floor on pricing, according to Kotak institutional equities. Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) is the usage and licensing fee that telecom operators are charged by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). According to the DoT, the calculations should incorporate all revenues earned by a telecom company – including from non-telecom sources such as deposit interests and sale of assets. The companies, however, have been of the view that AGR should comprise the revenues generated from telecom services only and non-telecom revenues should be kept out of it. A 'no material relief' scenario would be an industry-structure-altering one, it added. Even as the massive AGR-case-related payout is a meaty gross negative for Bharti airtel, the potential gross positive from industry consolidation will likely result in a net positive outcome, it said adding that Bharti could be a net beneficiary. Credit Suisse noted that Vodafone's idea faced "another operationally weak quarter" and that the government relief measures are "key to sustain". Meanwhile, the Indian telecom industry scenario of heavy losses continue day after details of. Losses incurred by Reliance communications in the second quarter of 2019-2020 were made public, reliance communications on Saturday said Anil Dhirubhai Ambani resigned as the company's director. Along with him, four other senior officials of reliance communications have also stepped down from their posts. These are Chhaya Virani, Ryna Karani, Manjari Kacker and Suresh Rangachar. In the second quarter of 2019-20, reliance communications' consolidated loss stood at Rs 30,142 crore. This data was released on Friday.

Indian Mobile industry to consolidate further if government doesn't offer material relief

The Uttar Pradesh government on Friday opened an all-new viewpoint of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/taj-mahal-gets-air-purifier-as-delhi-breathes-toxic-air-259900">Taj Mahal</a> which will enable the tourists to get a spectacular view of the iconic monument under the moonlight and during early morning hours. 
 
State Minister Girraj Singh Dharmesh on Saturday inaugurated the Mehtab Bagh Taj viewpoint, which will allow tourists to view Taj Mahal at the cost of Rs 20 for three hours in the morning and three hours in the evening. This new point will be opened for tourists from morning 7 to 10 am and in evening 7 to 10 pm. 
 
"The Taj viewpoint has been developed by the Agra Development Authority. I wish more such viewpoints are developed in Agra so that more foreign tourists can come here," Dharmesh told media. 
 
Tourists present on the day of the inauguration were happy to see Taj Mahal through a new viewpoint. 
 
"I am from Melbourne, Australia. I have been to Taj Mahal before, but not to this place (Mehtab Bagh Taj View Point). I think it is a wonderful spot," said a foreign tourist. 
Another tourist from Jammu and Kashmir said, "It is a good thing for tourism. It is a dream come true moment if I get to see the Taj Mahal during the night." 
 
Earlier this month, the Agra District Administration had installed two air purifier machines at the gates of the Mughal era monument Taj Mahal to combat air pollution in the region.

The Uttar Pradesh government on Friday opened an all-new viewpoint of Taj Mahal which will enable the tourists to get a spectacular view of the iconic monument under the moonlight and during early morning hours.

The Uttar Pradesh government on Friday opened an all-new viewpoint of Taj Mahal which will enable the tourists to get a spectacular view of the iconic monument under the moonlight and during early morning hours. State Minister Girraj Singh Dharmesh on Saturday inaugurated the Mehtab Bagh Taj viewpoint, which will allow tourists to view Taj Mahal at the cost of Rs 20 for three hours in the morning and three hours in the evening. This new point will be opened for tourists from morning 7 to 10 am and in evening 7 to 10 pm. "The Taj viewpoint has been developed by the Agra Development Authority. I wish more such viewpoints are developed in Agra so that more foreign tourists can come here," Dharmesh told media. Tourists present on the day of the inauguration were happy to see Taj Mahal through a new viewpoint. "I am from Melbourne, Australia. I have been to Taj Mahal before, but not to this place (Mehtab Bagh Taj View Point). I think it is a wonderful spot," said a foreign tourist. Another tourist from Jammu and Kashmir said, "It is a good thing for tourism. It is a dream come true moment if I get to see the Taj Mahal during the night." Earlier this month, the Agra District Administration had installed two air purifier machines at the gates of the Mughal era monument Taj Mahal to combat air pollution in the region.

Agra: Government opens new viewing spot for tourists to see Taj Mahal

The prisoner exchange between the Taliban group and the Afghan government has not happened yet, a source close to the group told Sputnik. 
 
President Ashraf Ghani on Monday announced that the government would release Anas Haqqani, Abdul Rashid and Haji Mali Khan in exchange for two lecturers of an American University. 
 
According to the source, the Taliban prisoners were brought to Qatar, but had yet to be handed over to the group. 
 
Asadullah Wahid, a lecturer at Kabul University who had gone to Qatar for a meeting with the Taliban leaders, told Sputnik that the United States did not want the exchange to be covered by the media. 
 
"They [the prisoners] have not been handed over to the Taliban, but there is information that the Taliban prisoners have arrived in Qatar," Wahid said, confirming the information gathered from the Taliban source. 
 
The lecturers will be transferred to Pakistan first, and then to Qatar for exchange. 
 
The scholars hail from the United States and Australia.

The prisoner exchange between the Taliban group and the Afghan government has not happened yet, a source close to the group told Sputnik. President Ashraf Ghani on Monday announced that the government would release Anas Haqqani, Abdul Rashid and Haji Mali Khan in exchange for two lecturers of an American University.

The prisoner exchange between the Taliban group and the Afghan government has not happened yet, a source close to the group told Sputnik. President Ashraf Ghani on Monday announced that the government would release Anas Haqqani, Abdul Rashid and Haji Mali Khan in exchange for two lecturers of an American University. According to the source, the Taliban prisoners were brought to Qatar, but had yet to be handed over to the group. Asadullah Wahid, a lecturer at Kabul University who had gone to Qatar for a meeting with the Taliban leaders, told Sputnik that the United States did not want the exchange to be covered by the media. "They [the prisoners] have not been handed over to the Taliban, but there is information that the Taliban prisoners have arrived in Qatar," Wahid said, confirming the information gathered from the Taliban source. The lecturers will be transferred to Pakistan first, and then to Qatar for exchange. The scholars hail from the United States and Australia.

Exchange of prisoners between Taliban, Afghan government yet to take place

Spain's Socialists and the radical leftwing Podemos have agreed in principle <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spains-socialists-again-seek-to-rule-without-majority-as-ciudadanos-collapses-261511">to form a coalition government</a>, the leaders of the two parties said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

A government formed by the two parties,&nbsp;who failed to reach a deal several months ago, triggering Sunday's repeat election,&nbsp;would need the support of other factions to pass an investiture vote. That would require a majority of at least 176 in the 350-seat parliament.

Should the agreement come to fruition, it would be Spain's first coalition government in its modern history.&nbsp;

Announcing the tentative deal at a joint press conference, outgoing Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the aim was to break months of political deadlock and establish "a stable government".

"Our desire is to achieve majority support in the chamber," he said.

They would approach other factions "to achieve a stable and sustained majority that would make possible not only an investiture vote but a legislature", he added.

Standing next to him, pony-tailed Podemos leader Pablo Iglesias said the two parties were looking to form "a progressive coalition government".&nbsp;

"As election night showed... what was a historic opportunity in April has become a historic necessity," Podemos leader Pablo Iglesias told journalists.&nbsp;

In the coming weeks, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spains-fourth-election-in-four-years-fails-to-break-deadlock-261407">the two parties would thrash out all the details</a> of both the structure and the programme of the government, he added.

Although Sanchez's Socialists won Sunday's vote, the fourth in as many years, he emerged from the elections weakened. The repeat vote boosted support for the rightwing People's Party and propelled the far-right Vox into third place.

Both the Socialists and Podemos lost seats compared to April's election.

Sanchez's party took 120, down from 123, while Podemos secured 35, down from 42, leaving the two factions 21 seats short for an investiture vote.&nbsp;

Spain's Socialists and the radical leftwing Podemos have agreed in principle to form a coalition government, the leaders of the two parties said on Tuesday. A government formed by the two parties, who failed to reach a deal several months ago, triggering Sunday's repeat election, would need the support of other factions to pass an investiture vote.

Spain's Socialists and the radical leftwing Podemos have agreed in principle to form a coalition government, the leaders of the two parties said on Tuesday. A government formed by the two parties, who failed to reach a deal several months ago, triggering Sunday's repeat election, would need the support of other factions to pass an investiture vote. That would require a majority of at least 176 in the 350-seat parliament. Should the agreement come to fruition, it would be Spain's first coalition government in its modern history. Announcing the tentative deal at a joint press conference, outgoing Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the aim was to break months of political deadlock and establish "a stable government". "Our desire is to achieve majority support in the chamber," he said. They would approach other factions "to achieve a stable and sustained majority that would make possible not only an investiture vote but a legislature", he added. Standing next to him, pony-tailed Podemos leader Pablo Iglesias said the two parties were looking to form "a progressive coalition government". "As election night showed... what was a historic opportunity in April has become a historic necessity," Podemos leader Pablo Iglesias told journalists. In the coming weeks, the two parties would thrash out all the details of both the structure and the programme of the government, he added. Although Sanchez's Socialists won Sunday's vote, the fourth in as many years, he emerged from the elections weakened. The repeat vote boosted support for the rightwing People's Party and propelled the far-right Vox into third place. Both the Socialists and Podemos lost seats compared to April's election. Sanchez's party took 120, down from 123, while Podemos secured 35, down from 42, leaving the two factions 21 seats short for an investiture vote.

Spain Socialists, far-left Podemos agree in principle to form government after deadlock

Governor of Maharashtra Bhagat Singh Koshiyari on Monday invited the third-largest party Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) to stake claim to form government after Shiv Sena failed to submit letter of support.

Earlier, Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari met a delegation of Shiv Sena which expressed willingness to form a government in the state but he declined the party's request for a three-day extension for submitting 'requisite' letters of support from other political parties.

In a press conference Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray&nbsp;had said that his party's willingness to form the government in Maharashtra was conveyed to Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

"We told the Governor that we are willing to form the government. We asked for at least two days but we were not given the time," Thackeray told media persons after meeting the Governor.

The majority mark in Maharashtra is 145.

The Shiv Sena, Congress and the NCP together will have a total strength of 154 seats in the state assembly. Which is well over the majority figure.

(With inputs from agencies)

Governor of Maharashtra Bhagat Singh Koshiyari on Monday invited the third-largest party Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) to stake claim to form government after Shiv Sena failed to submit letter of support.

Governor of Maharashtra Bhagat Singh Koshiyari on Monday invited the third-largest party Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) to stake claim to form government after Shiv Sena failed to submit letter of support. Earlier, Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari met a delegation of Shiv Sena which expressed willingness to form a government in the state but he declined the party's request for a three-day extension for submitting 'requisite' letters of support from other political parties. In a press conference Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray had said that his party's willingness to form the government in Maharashtra was conveyed to Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. "We told the Governor that we are willing to form the government. We asked for at least two days but we were not given the time," Thackeray told media persons after meeting the Governor. The majority mark in Maharashtra is 145. The Shiv Sena, Congress and the NCP together will have a total strength of 154 seats in the state assembly. Which is well over the majority figure. (With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra Government formation: Governor Bhagat Singh Koshiyari invites NCP to stake claim

According to Sources, In Maharashtra, the National Congress Party has supported Shiv Sena to form the government but Congress asks for more time from the governor and mentions the need for more talks with NCP. Watch this video to find out more in detail.

NCP lend its support to Shiv Sena, Congress asks for more time

According to Sources, In Maharashtra, the National Congress Party has supported Shiv Sena with Congress & the stake has been claimed to form the government as well to the Governor. Watch this video to find out more in detail.

Sources: NCP supported Shiv Sena with Congress in Maharashtra, stake claimed to form govt

BJP is not going to form government in Maharashtra and said that Shiv Sena has betrayed the people's mandate. To know more watch the video

Maharashtra Government Formation: NCP to support Shiv Sena

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-forces-retake-key-bridges-from-protesters-report-260956">Iraq's</a> political class has reached a consensus to protect Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi's government against protests sweeping the country's capital and south for weeks, sources told AFP on Saturday.

The agreement is the product of a series of meetings, including gatherings led by Major General Qasem Soleimani, commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps' foreign operations arm, the Qods Force.

He has met with top leaders in Najaf and Baghdad, piling on the pressure to close ranks around Abdel Mahdi.

A source present at some of those meetings told AFP Soleimani had met with populist cleric Moqtada Sadr, who had vocally backed the protests, and Mohammed Ridha Sistani, the son of Iraq's top Shiite cleric, Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani.

"Those meetings resulted in an agreement that Abdel Mahdi would remain in office," the source said.&nbsp;

Public anger erupted into <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqs-top-shiite-cleric-sistani-says-security-forces-must-keep-peace-260801">demonstrations</a> on October 1 against corruption and a lack of jobs, escalating into calls for the entire ruling system to be overturned.

Abdel Mahdi, 77, came to power last year, pledging to tackle both corruption and unemployment.&nbsp;

But he has become the target of protesters' rage, accused of commandeering a bloody crackdown that has left nearly 300 dead since protests broke out.&nbsp;

Another source said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-crude-stuck-at-field-for-third-day-as-protests-cut-roads-260728">political factions agreed this week</a> to move forward on reforms if the premier and government stayed in place.

"Most of the heads of major blocs agreed in a meeting to keep Adel Abdel Mahdi and maintain power in exchange for reforms on corruption and constitutional amendments," said the source, a high-ranking member of a party that was represented at the gathering.

"They agreed to end the protests with any means possible and to reopen the bridges and shuttered streets," the official said.

Overnight, security forces began clearing out protest camps in Baghdad, the port city of Basra and the holy city of Karbala.

Iraq's political class has reached a consensus to protect Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi's government against protests sweeping the country's capital and south for weeks, sources told AFP on Saturday.

Iraq's political class has reached a consensus to protect Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi's government against protests sweeping the country's capital and south for weeks, sources told AFP on Saturday. The agreement is the product of a series of meetings, including gatherings led by Major General Qasem Soleimani, commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps' foreign operations arm, the Qods Force. He has met with top leaders in Najaf and Baghdad, piling on the pressure to close ranks around Abdel Mahdi. A source present at some of those meetings told AFP Soleimani had met with populist cleric Moqtada Sadr, who had vocally backed the protests, and Mohammed Ridha Sistani, the son of Iraq's top Shiite cleric, Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani. "Those meetings resulted in an agreement that Abdel Mahdi would remain in office," the source said. Public anger erupted into demonstrations on October 1 against corruption and a lack of jobs, escalating into calls for the entire ruling system to be overturned. Abdel Mahdi, 77, came to power last year, pledging to tackle both corruption and unemployment. But he has become the target of protesters' rage, accused of commandeering a bloody crackdown that has left nearly 300 dead since protests broke out. Another source said political factions agreed this week to move forward on reforms if the premier and government stayed in place. "Most of the heads of major blocs agreed in a meeting to keep Adel Abdel Mahdi and maintain power in exchange for reforms on corruption and constitutional amendments," said the source, a high-ranking member of a party that was represented at the gathering. "They agreed to end the protests with any means possible and to reopen the bridges and shuttered streets," the official said. Overnight, security forces began clearing out protest camps in Baghdad, the port city of Basra and the holy city of Karbala.

Iraq factions reach deal to save government, protests to end soon

Patience is wearing thin among some residents of the Pakistani capital enduring another round of anti-government protests, with tens of thousands of opposition supporters showing no sign of giving up despite the onset of winter rain.

Huge crowds descended on Islamabad from various parts of the country a week ago, denouncing the government of Prime Minister Imran Khan as illegitimate and calling for him to step down.

It is the first concerted challenge that the cricket star-turned-politician has faced since he won a general election last year promising to end corruption and create jobs for the poor.

Khan has dismissed the calls to resign and his government, which the opposition says won power after a fraudulent election with the support of the military, has denounced the protests as a threat to democracy.

The military denies favouring any party saying it supports the constitution.

The protesters are occupying a large open area alongside one of Islamabad's main roads, the latest in a succession of drawn-out sit-ins over recent years, including one Khan himself led against the previous government.

"This is the third sit-in since 2014 in Islamabad - it has to stop if this country wants to progress,” said office worker Ghazanfar Ali, 47.

The capital's sole public transport system, which runs by the protest site, has been suspended and Ali said he had to spend twice as much getting to work.

Student Zeeshan Azeem, 17, said the internet had been down at his home all week, which he blamed on government attempts to disrupt the protesters' communications.

"We're forced to travel a considerable distance from the protest site to use the internet," said Azeem, clutching his books as he headed home from school.

"When we complain to the service provider, they said they have down-graded the service on the government's instructions."

The government has not confirmed any such order but it is a regular tactic in Pakistan, and staff at providers have said they had been told to suspend services in some areas.

The protests are being led by one of the country's main conservative religious parties, with the support of the two main parties. The huge crowd is almost exclusively made up of bearded men, waving flags and chanting slogans.

They have set up a tent city with plastic sheets, and cook and rest when their leaders are not giving speeches. The mood has been cheerful and there has been no significant trouble.

The biggest problem has been the onset of cold rain.

Khan said on Twitter this week he had directed city authorities to assess what help could be provided for the protesters.

Opposition leaders declined the offer.

Patience is wearing thin among some residents of the Pakistani capital enduring another round of anti-government protests, with tens of thousands of opposition supporters showing no sign of giving up despite the onset of winter rain.

Patience is wearing thin among some residents of the Pakistani capital enduring another round of anti-government protests, with tens of thousands of opposition supporters showing no sign of giving up despite the onset of winter rain. Huge crowds descended on Islamabad from various parts of the country a week ago, denouncing the government of Prime Minister Imran Khan as illegitimate and calling for him to step down. It is the first concerted challenge that the cricket star-turned-politician has faced since he won a general election last year promising to end corruption and create jobs for the poor. Khan has dismissed the calls to resign and his government, which the opposition says won power after a fraudulent election with the support of the military, has denounced the protests as a threat to democracy. The military denies favouring any party saying it supports the constitution. The protesters are occupying a large open area alongside one of Islamabad's main roads, the latest in a succession of drawn-out sit-ins over recent years, including one Khan himself led against the previous government. "This is the third sit-in since 2014 in Islamabad - it has to stop if this country wants to progress,” said office worker Ghazanfar Ali, 47. The capital's sole public transport system, which runs by the protest site, has been suspended and Ali said he had to spend twice as much getting to work. Student Zeeshan Azeem, 17, said the internet had been down at his home all week, which he blamed on government attempts to disrupt the protesters' communications. "We're forced to travel a considerable distance from the protest site to use the internet," said Azeem, clutching his books as he headed home from school. "When we complain to the service provider, they said they have down-graded the service on the government's instructions." The government has not confirmed any such order but it is a regular tactic in Pakistan, and staff at providers have said they had been told to suspend services in some areas. The protests are being led by one of the country's main conservative religious parties, with the support of the two main parties. The huge crowd is almost exclusively made up of bearded men, waving flags and chanting slogans. They have set up a tent city with plastic sheets, and cook and rest when their leaders are not giving speeches. The mood has been cheerful and there has been no significant trouble. The biggest problem has been the onset of cold rain. Khan said on Twitter this week he had directed city authorities to assess what help could be provided for the protesters. Opposition leaders declined the offer.

Islamabad: Another round of protests begin as part of 'Azadi March', asking for the resignation of Imran Khan

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday announced that the Union Cabinet had approved a Rs 25,000-crore fund for stalled middle and low-income housing projects.

The government plans to give a boost to the housing market to revive over 1600 stalled housing projects covering 4.58 lakh units.

"A special window will be made, that will be an alternative investment fund (AIF). The government will first fund Rs 10,000 crore. There will be participation from SBI and LIC to place funds. The total funding from the government and SBI and LIC put together is expected to have a starting value at around Rs 25,000 crore," said Finance Minister.

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Addressing a press conference after the cabinet meeting, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the fund will provide relief to developers with unfinished projects and ensure delivery of homes to buyers.

The minister said over 1,600 housing projects are stalled and about 4.58 lakh housing units are stuck in it. She said the fund will be set up as a Category-11 AIF (Alternate Investment Fund) debt fund registered with SEBI and would be professionally run.

For the first AIF under the Special Window, it is proposed that SBICAP Ventures Limited shall be engaged to be the Investment Manager. She said State Bank of India, Life Insurance Corporation and other institutions will make further contributions and the corpus of the fund will go beyond Rs 25,000 crore.

"The government is giving Rs 10,000 crores. We have spoken with SBI and LIC so on which together will also put money. I think it will touch Rs 25,000 crores. There are a lot of sovereign funds which have expressed their interests to come into it. Gradually, we will keep adding to AIF corpus," she said.

The minister said that the money will be put into an escrow account to fund incomplete housing projects.

"For these incomplete projects, we will put money into an escrow account. Those incomplete projects registered with RERA will get funded for the last finishing projects after assessing their net worth if it is positive. The money will be given in stages. So, people will not have to worry about projects getting completed or not," she said.

Sitharaman announced that those projects which are declared NPAs (non-performing assets) can also get benefit under the new scheme.

"If the project is declared NPA even then they can get benefit from this. Earlier, we came up with two conditions- those who are under NPAs and NCLT can benefit. In NCLT, if the project is not declared as liquidation worth, they are eligible to come under the scheme," she said.

The minister said the move will help relieve financial stress faced by a large number of middle-class homebuyers who have invested their hard-earned money in housing projects.

"The main intention is to complete the stalled projects in the affordable and middle-income housing category," she said.

Sitharaman also said that the Investment Manager will be responsible to ensure that the funds are used only for construction through appropriate safeguards mandated by RERA and also through the deployment of external project monitoring agencies.

She said the creation of a special window for housing projects would revive the real estate sector and generate considerable employment.

An official release said the Special Window will provide last-mile funding to projects whose net-worth is positive, affordable and middle-income housing project and ongoing projects registered with RERA (Real Estate Regulation and Development Act).

The Special Window will also cover projects that are classified as NPA or where NCLT proceedings have already started, but the project meets the other eligibility criteria.

The release said that the decision is aimed to restore trust between buyers and developers and boost the sentiments of the housing sector as a whole and release a large number of funds stuck in these projects for productive use in the economy.

"Besides, the revival of the sector will also lead to the demand of cement, iron and steel industries giving further impetus to generate more employment. This initiative will have a positive effect in releasing stress in other major sectors of the Indian economy as well," it said.

The release said that the real estate industry is intrinsically linked with several other industries and growth in the sector will have a positive effect in releasing stress in other major sectors of the Indian economy as well.

"The Special Window is being structured as an AIF to pool investments from other government-related and private investors including public financial institutions, sovereign wealth funds, public and private banks, domestic pension and provident funds, global pension funds and other institutional investors. The fund is therefore expected not only to support the sector but also generate a commercial return for its investors," it said.

Funds created under the Special Window will be set up as priority debt funds.

"A detailed Investment Policy will be laid down to guide the selection of projects to be financed through a detailed due-diligence process that will include legal due-diligence, title due diligence, micro-market analysis and financial analysis. The final decision will be taken by the Investment Committee of each Fund comprising of experienced professionals and industry experts," the release said.

Sitharaman had in September announced that a special window for affordable and middle-income housing will be created which will provide last-mile funding for housing projects which are stressed.

Subsequently, inter-ministerial consultations and several stakeholder consultations were held with the housing industry including housing finance companies, banks, NBFCs, investors, and real estate developers. Problems being faced by homebuyers, developers, lenders, and investors were ascertained that could be addressed through the Special Window, the release said.

(With inputs from ANI)

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday announced that the Union Cabinet had approved a Rs 25,000-crore fund for stalled middle and low-income housing projects.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday announced that the Union Cabinet had approved a Rs 25,000-crore fund for stalled middle and low-income housing projects. The government plans to give a boost to the housing market to revive over 1600 stalled housing projects covering 4.58 lakh units. "A special window will be made, that will be an alternative investment fund (AIF). The government will first fund Rs 10,000 crore. There will be participation from SBI and LIC to place funds. The total funding from the government and SBI and LIC put together is expected to have a starting value at around Rs 25,000 crore," said Finance Minister. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman holds press conference in Delhi https://t.co/pGY3QmaHx6 — ANI (@ANI) November 6, 2019 × Addressing a press conference after the cabinet meeting, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the fund will provide relief to developers with unfinished projects and ensure delivery of homes to buyers. The minister said over 1,600 housing projects are stalled and about 4.58 lakh housing units are stuck in it. She said the fund will be set up as a Category-11 AIF (Alternate Investment Fund) debt fund registered with SEBI and would be professionally run. For the first AIF under the Special Window, it is proposed that SBICAP Ventures Limited shall be engaged to be the Investment Manager. She said State Bank of India, Life Insurance Corporation and other institutions will make further contributions and the corpus of the fund will go beyond Rs 25,000 crore. "The government is giving Rs 10,000 crores. We have spoken with SBI and LIC so on which together will also put money. I think it will touch Rs 25,000 crores. There are a lot of sovereign funds which have expressed their interests to come into it. Gradually, we will keep adding to AIF corpus," she said. The minister said that the money will be put into an escrow account to fund incomplete housing projects. "For these incomplete projects, we will put money into an escrow account. Those incomplete projects registered with RERA will get funded for the last finishing projects after assessing their net worth if it is positive. The money will be given in stages. So, people will not have to worry about projects getting completed or not," she said. Sitharaman announced that those projects which are declared NPAs (non-performing assets) can also get benefit under the new scheme. "If the project is declared NPA even then they can get benefit from this. Earlier, we came up with two conditions- those who are under NPAs and NCLT can benefit. In NCLT, if the project is not declared as liquidation worth, they are eligible to come under the scheme," she said. The minister said the move will help relieve financial stress faced by a large number of middle-class homebuyers who have invested their hard-earned money in housing projects. "The main intention is to complete the stalled projects in the affordable and middle-income housing category," she said. Sitharaman also said that the Investment Manager will be responsible to ensure that the funds are used only for construction through appropriate safeguards mandated by RERA and also through the deployment of external project monitoring agencies. She said the creation of a special window for housing projects would revive the real estate sector and generate considerable employment. An official release said the Special Window will provide last-mile funding to projects whose net-worth is positive, affordable and middle-income housing project and ongoing projects registered with RERA (Real Estate Regulation and Development Act). The Special Window will also cover projects that are classified as NPA or where NCLT proceedings have already started, but the project meets the other eligibility criteria. The release said that the decision is aimed to restore trust between buyers and developers and boost the sentiments of the housing sector as a whole and release a large number of funds stuck in these projects for productive use in the economy. "Besides, the revival of the sector will also lead to the demand of cement, iron and steel industries giving further impetus to generate more employment. This initiative will have a positive effect in releasing stress in other major sectors of the Indian economy as well," it said. The release said that the real estate industry is intrinsically linked with several other industries and growth in the sector will have a positive effect in releasing stress in other major sectors of the Indian economy as well. "The Special Window is being structured as an AIF to pool investments from other government-related and private investors including public financial institutions, sovereign wealth funds, public and private banks, domestic pension and provident funds, global pension funds and other institutional investors. The fund is therefore expected not only to support the sector but also generate a commercial return for its investors," it said. Funds created under the Special Window will be set up as priority debt funds. "A detailed Investment Policy will be laid down to guide the selection of projects to be financed through a detailed due-diligence process that will include legal due-diligence, title due diligence, micro-market analysis and financial analysis. The final decision will be taken by the Investment Committee of each Fund comprising of experienced professionals and industry experts," the release said. Sitharaman had in September announced that a special window for affordable and middle-income housing will be created which will provide last-mile funding for housing projects which are stressed. Subsequently, inter-ministerial consultations and several stakeholder consultations were held with the housing industry including housing finance companies, banks, NBFCs, investors, and real estate developers. Problems being faced by homebuyers, developers, lenders, and investors were ascertained that could be addressed through the Special Window, the release said. (With inputs from ANI)

Government announces Rs 25,000 crore stimulus package for ailing real estate sector

Doctors at government hospitals in Karnataka have been staging a sit-in for five days to protest against repeated cases of assault, demanding action against the attackers.

''I am not a terrorist, I am a doctor and I don't deserve to die at my workplace'', read a placard held by one of the 1000 government doctors protesting against another case of assault. The junior residents have been staging a sit-in for five days now, demanding action against the attackers. The incident itself took place on November 1 at Minto Hospital run by the Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute. At 3.30 pm, 30-35 members from Kannada Rakshana Vedike, a pro-Kannada organisation, barged into the hospital OPD premises.&nbsp;

The protesters were demanding compensation for several patients who had lost their eyesight following cataract surgeries in July this year. When the junior female doctor refused to speak to them, they allegedly heckled her and assaulted her physically.&nbsp;

''They demanded that the junior resident answer the questions being raised by the association. The doctor responded by saying 'I know Kannada. But I do not wish to speak with you'' which was inferred as 'I do not wish to speak in Kannada'. There was another case of assault on a male doctor on the same day for which we have also submitted the evidence. There is also evidence of mental abuse and physical manhandling by using expletives on the female doctor. They are not supposed to barge into the hospital without prior intimation. We have filed an FIR and they are non-bailable offences which warrants immediate action. But no action has been taken so far. This protest is to demand action against those responsible for this attack'', says Dr Venugopal, member of the Resident Doctors' Association.&nbsp;

The government on Monday announced compensation of Rs 3 lacs for patients who lost their eyesight and asked the protesting doctors to return to duty. But the doctors have been adamant on not returning to duty until the perpetrators are punished. ''Even the victims who lost their eyesight have grievances. The doctors have their own grievances. The police are taking action as per law. Forcing a procedure is not fair. We are educated people. The system is built for the people. Whatever their concern, we are here to address it. If they don't have confidence, how can the system run?'' said Ashwath Narayan, Deputy CM, Karnataka.&nbsp;

Female doctors were particularly shaken up after the incident where the doctor was physically assaulted by Ashwini Gowda. ''We work round the clock in casualty and ICU irrespective of gender. We are all doctors here. But it is a very sensitive issue that a female doctor got attacked. The government should take up the matter. There will be fear among students and parents. Our parents send us here to achieve well in our profession. But now they are worried for the safety and lives of their children. This is an important issue that is not getting the attention it deserves from the common man'', says Dr Rekha.&nbsp;

Doctors from Vani Vilas Hospital, Bowring Hospital, Minto Hospital and Victoria Hospital participated in the sit-in and have threatened to make it an indefinite strike if there is a delay in taking action against the attackers. ''There are many laws that have been brought to protect us. But numerous incidents of violence occur against medicos. None of the laws are effectively implemented. Every time we protest, they promise to tighten protection. But action against the culprits is never taken. This encourages more such acts'', says Dr Rekha.

Doctors at government hospitals in Karnataka have been staging a sit-in for five days to protest against repeated cases of assault, demanding action against the attackers.

Doctors at government hospitals in Karnataka have been staging a sit-in for five days to protest against repeated cases of assault, demanding action against the attackers. ''I am not a terrorist, I am a doctor and I don't deserve to die at my workplace'', read a placard held by one of the 1000 government doctors protesting against another case of assault. The junior residents have been staging a sit-in for five days now, demanding action against the attackers. The incident itself took place on November 1 at Minto Hospital run by the Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute. At 3.30 pm, 30-35 members from Kannada Rakshana Vedike, a pro-Kannada organisation, barged into the hospital OPD premises. The protesters were demanding compensation for several patients who had lost their eyesight following cataract surgeries in July this year. When the junior female doctor refused to speak to them, they allegedly heckled her and assaulted her physically. ''They demanded that the junior resident answer the questions being raised by the association. The doctor responded by saying 'I know Kannada. But I do not wish to speak with you'' which was inferred as 'I do not wish to speak in Kannada'. There was another case of assault on a male doctor on the same day for which we have also submitted the evidence. There is also evidence of mental abuse and physical manhandling by using expletives on the female doctor. They are not supposed to barge into the hospital without prior intimation. We have filed an FIR and they are non-bailable offences which warrants immediate action. But no action has been taken so far. This protest is to demand action against those responsible for this attack'', says Dr Venugopal, member of the Resident Doctors' Association. The government on Monday announced compensation of Rs 3 lacs for patients who lost their eyesight and asked the protesting doctors to return to duty. But the doctors have been adamant on not returning to duty until the perpetrators are punished. ''Even the victims who lost their eyesight have grievances. The doctors have their own grievances. The police are taking action as per law. Forcing a procedure is not fair. We are educated people. The system is built for the people. Whatever their concern, we are here to address it. If they don't have confidence, how can the system run?'' said Ashwath Narayan, Deputy CM, Karnataka. Female doctors were particularly shaken up after the incident where the doctor was physically assaulted by Ashwini Gowda. ''We work round the clock in casualty and ICU irrespective of gender. We are all doctors here. But it is a very sensitive issue that a female doctor got attacked. The government should take up the matter. There will be fear among students and parents. Our parents send us here to achieve well in our profession. But now they are worried for the safety and lives of their children. This is an important issue that is not getting the attention it deserves from the common man'', says Dr Rekha. Doctors from Vani Vilas Hospital, Bowring Hospital, Minto Hospital and Victoria Hospital participated in the sit-in and have threatened to make it an indefinite strike if there is a delay in taking action against the attackers. ''There are many laws that have been brought to protect us. But numerous incidents of violence occur against medicos. None of the laws are effectively implemented. Every time we protest, they promise to tighten protection. But action against the culprits is never taken. This encourages more such acts'', says Dr Rekha.

Karnataka: Government doctors stage sit-in to protest assault

British Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-rejects-calls-for-no-deal-brexit-in-election-pitch-259559">Boris Johnson</a> pressed opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn on Tuesday to tell voters in next month's election whether he backs leaving the EU.

Johnson's main rival in the snap December 12 poll has struggled with defining his position on Brexit ever since Britons narrowly triggered the divorce in a 2016 referendum.

Labour's new official stance is to negotiate a more EU-friendly withdrawal agreement with Brussels and then let voters decide whether to back it or simply stay in the EU.

But Corbyn refuses to say whether he would then campaign for his own deal. Most top members in the party oppose Brexit and have said they would campaign to remain in the bloc.

Johnson's Conservatives are trying to seize on Labour's divisions on the defining issue of UK politics.

"Now the time has come for you to come clean," Johnson told Corbyn in a letter released by his office.

"Do you believe the results of the 2016 referendum should be respected and the UK should leave the EU?" Johnson asked.

"Would you commit to campaign for your 'deal' in a second <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-election-johnson-makes-fresh-bid-to-break-the-deadlock-258648">referendum</a>?"

Labour's Brexit spokesman Keir Sarmer told BBC radio that letting Britons decide what to do about Brexit was a "practical way to break the impasse".

"It's not for the politicians... it's for the people to decide," Starmer said.

Starmer himself is one of the senior Labour members opposed to Brexit.

Corbyn was due to address supporters later Tuesday.

Labour is trailing the Conservatives by 11 percentage points in a poll of polls compiled by Britain Elects.

But the field also includes smaller pro-EU opposition parties that could potentially form a post-election coalition with Labour,&nbsp;if they ever agree on who should lead the government.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdom-prime-minister-boris-johnson-says-he-wants-early-election-on-december-12-258016">anti-Brexit</a> Liberal Democrats came in second in European Parliament polls in May that Britain was forced to take part in because of Brexit delays.

Lib Dem leader Jo Swinson will formally launch her party's campaign on Tuesday in London.

Her party is currently running in third place with around 18 per cent of the vote.

But she firmly refuses to back Corbyn,&nbsp;the official leader of the opposition, and wants to become prime minister herself.

The Brexit Party of populist Nigel Farage has 11 per cent and will pile pressure on Johnson during the campaign from the anti-European right.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson pressed opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn on Tuesday to tell voters in next month's election whether he backs leaving the EU.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson pressed opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn on Tuesday to tell voters in next month's election whether he backs leaving the EU. Johnson's main rival in the snap December 12 poll has struggled with defining his position on Brexit ever since Britons narrowly triggered the divorce in a 2016 referendum. Labour's new official stance is to negotiate a more EU-friendly withdrawal agreement with Brussels and then let voters decide whether to back it or simply stay in the EU. But Corbyn refuses to say whether he would then campaign for his own deal. Most top members in the party oppose Brexit and have said they would campaign to remain in the bloc. Johnson's Conservatives are trying to seize on Labour's divisions on the defining issue of UK politics. "Now the time has come for you to come clean," Johnson told Corbyn in a letter released by his office. "Do you believe the results of the 2016 referendum should be respected and the UK should leave the EU?" Johnson asked. "Would you commit to campaign for your 'deal' in a second referendum?" Labour's Brexit spokesman Keir Sarmer told BBC radio that letting Britons decide what to do about Brexit was a "practical way to break the impasse". "It's not for the politicians... it's for the people to decide," Starmer said. Starmer himself is one of the senior Labour members opposed to Brexit. Corbyn was due to address supporters later Tuesday. Labour is trailing the Conservatives by 11 percentage points in a poll of polls compiled by Britain Elects. But the field also includes smaller pro-EU opposition parties that could potentially form a post-election coalition with Labour, if they ever agree on who should lead the government. The anti-Brexit Liberal Democrats came in second in European Parliament polls in May that Britain was forced to take part in because of Brexit delays. Lib Dem leader Jo Swinson will formally launch her party's campaign on Tuesday in London. Her party is currently running in third place with around 18 per cent of the vote. But she firmly refuses to back Corbyn, the official leader of the opposition, and wants to become prime minister herself. The Brexit Party of populist Nigel Farage has 11 per cent and will pile pressure on Johnson during the campaign from the anti-European right.

Boris Johnson presses election rival Jeremy Corbyn to explain Brexit stance

In a major development, Nepal President's office has issued a notice, removing the Governors of all seven provinces in the country appointed by former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba-led government. 
 
The notice has been issued on the basis of the recommendation from the Cabinet. 
 
All the seven governors were appointed by the Nepali Congress party and had assumed offices in January 2018.

In a major development, Nepal President's office has issued a notice, removing the Governors of all seven provinces in the country appointed by former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba-led government.

In a major development, Nepal President's office has issued a notice, removing the Governors of all seven provinces in the country appointed by former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba-led government. The notice has been issued on the basis of the recommendation from the Cabinet. All the seven governors were appointed by the Nepali Congress party and had assumed offices in January 2018.

Nepalese presidential office removes governors across all seven provinces

Pakistan's&nbsp;military said it supported the country's elected government and the constitution, as tens of thousands of opposition protesters gathered in the capital demanding that Prime Minister Imran Khan's year-old government quits by Sunday.

"We believe in the law and the constitution and our support is with the democratically elected government, not with any party," military spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor said in comments to a television news channel late on Friday.

Earlier on Friday, the opposition had demanded that cricket star-turned-politician Khan and his administration resign within two days, raising the stakes in a protest campaign that the government has denounced as a threat to democracy.

The opposition says Khan's government is illegitimate and is being propped up by the military, which has ruled Pakistan for about half of its history and sets security and foreign policy.

The military denies meddling in politics and Khan has dismissed the calls to step down.

The leader of the protest, religious party chief Fazl-ur-Rehman, told a rally of tens of thousands of supporters that he did not want a "collision with institutions", a thinly veiled reference to the military, and called on them to be impartial.

Ghafoor said Rehman should know the military was impartial and it should not be dragged into politics.

Rehman, leader of the conservative Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl party, is a veteran politician who can mobilise significant support in religious schools across the country.

He was joined at the Friday rally, which police estimated was attended by 35,000 people, by leaders of the two main opposition parties.

Protesters were camped out at the rally site on Saturday, cooking food and resting.

Rehman had earlier warned of chaos if the government did not step down, but on Friday he told the crowd they would decide what action to take if their two-day sit-in at the rally site failed.

Security is tight in Islamabad with the government and diplomatic sector - just a few kilometres from the rally - sealed off, with shipping containers used to block roads.

Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Friday urged the government to handle the protest peacefully.

The government, struggling to get the economy on track, has denounced the protests as a threat to the constitution and to democracy and has said it will not be allowed to paralyse the capital.

Pakistan's military said it supported the country's elected government and the constitution, as tens of thousands of opposition protesters gathered in the capital demanding that Prime Minister Imran Khan's year-old government quits by Sunday.

Pakistan's military said it supported the country's elected government and the constitution, as tens of thousands of opposition protesters gathered in the capital demanding that Prime Minister Imran Khan's year-old government quits by Sunday. "We believe in the law and the constitution and our support is with the democratically elected government, not with any party," military spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor said in comments to a television news channel late on Friday. Earlier on Friday, the opposition had demanded that cricket star-turned-politician Khan and his administration resign within two days, raising the stakes in a protest campaign that the government has denounced as a threat to democracy. The opposition says Khan's government is illegitimate and is being propped up by the military, which has ruled Pakistan for about half of its history and sets security and foreign policy. The military denies meddling in politics and Khan has dismissed the calls to step down. The leader of the protest, religious party chief Fazl-ur-Rehman, told a rally of tens of thousands of supporters that he did not want a "collision with institutions", a thinly veiled reference to the military, and called on them to be impartial. Ghafoor said Rehman should know the military was impartial and it should not be dragged into politics. Rehman, leader of the conservative Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl party, is a veteran politician who can mobilise significant support in religious schools across the country. He was joined at the Friday rally, which police estimated was attended by 35,000 people, by leaders of the two main opposition parties. Protesters were camped out at the rally site on Saturday, cooking food and resting. Rehman had earlier warned of chaos if the government did not step down, but on Friday he told the crowd they would decide what action to take if their two-day sit-in at the rally site failed. Security is tight in Islamabad with the government and diplomatic sector - just a few kilometres from the rally - sealed off, with shipping containers used to block roads. Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Friday urged the government to handle the protest peacefully. The government, struggling to get the economy on track, has denounced the protests as a threat to the constitution and to democracy and has said it will not be allowed to paralyse the capital.

Pakistan army says it supports elected government amid major protest

Thailand unveiled an "anti-fake news" centre on Friday, the Southeast Asian country's latest effort to exert government control over a sweeping range of online content.

The move came as Thailand is counting on the digital economy to drive growth amid domestic political tensions, following a March election that installed its junta leader since 2014 as a civilian prime minister.

Thailand has recently pressed more cybercrime charges for what it says is misinformation affecting national security. Such content is mostly opinion critical of the government, the military or the royal family.

Minister of Digital Economy and Society Puttipong Punnakanta broadly defined "fake news" as any viral online content that misleads people or damages the country's image. He made no distinction between non-malicious false information and deliberate disinformation.

"The centre is not intended to be a tool to support the government or any individual," Puttipong said on Friday before giving reporters a tour.

The centre is set up like a war room, with monitors in the middle of the room showing charts tracking the latest "fake news" and trending Twitter&nbsp;hashtags.

It is staffed by around 30 officers at a time, who will review online content, gathered through "social listening" tools,&nbsp;on a sweeping range of topics from natural disasters, the economy, health products and illicit goods.

The officers will also target news about government policies and content that broadly affects "peace and order, good morals, and national security," according to Puttipong.

If they suspect something is false, they will flag it to relevant authorities to issue corrections through the centre's social media platforms and website and through the press.

Rights groups and media freedom advocates were concerned the government could use the centre as a tool for censorship and propaganda.

"In the Thai context, the term 'fake news' is being weaponised to censor dissidents and restrict our online freedom," said Emilie Pradichit, director of the Thailand-based Manushya Foundation, which advocates for online rights.

Pradichit said the move could be used to codify censorship, adding the centre would allow the government to be the "sole arbiter of truth".

Transparency reports from internet companies such as Facebook&nbsp;and Google&nbsp;show Thai government requests to take down content or turn over information have ramped up since the military seized power in 2014.

A law prohibiting criticism of the monarchy has often been the basis for such requests for Facebook. In Google's cases, government criticism was the main reason cited for removal of content.

Thailand unveiled an "anti-fake news" centre on Friday, the Southeast Asian country's latest effort to exert government control over a sweeping range of online content.

Thailand unveiled an "anti-fake news" centre on Friday, the Southeast Asian country's latest effort to exert government control over a sweeping range of online content. The move came as Thailand is counting on the digital economy to drive growth amid domestic political tensions, following a March election that installed its junta leader since 2014 as a civilian prime minister. Thailand has recently pressed more cybercrime charges for what it says is misinformation affecting national security. Such content is mostly opinion critical of the government, the military or the royal family. Minister of Digital Economy and Society Puttipong Punnakanta broadly defined "fake news" as any viral online content that misleads people or damages the country's image. He made no distinction between non-malicious false information and deliberate disinformation. "The centre is not intended to be a tool to support the government or any individual," Puttipong said on Friday before giving reporters a tour. The centre is set up like a war room, with monitors in the middle of the room showing charts tracking the latest "fake news" and trending Twitter hashtags. It is staffed by around 30 officers at a time, who will review online content, gathered through "social listening" tools, on a sweeping range of topics from natural disasters, the economy, health products and illicit goods. The officers will also target news about government policies and content that broadly affects "peace and order, good morals, and national security," according to Puttipong. If they suspect something is false, they will flag it to relevant authorities to issue corrections through the centre's social media platforms and website and through the press. Rights groups and media freedom advocates were concerned the government could use the centre as a tool for censorship and propaganda. "In the Thai context, the term 'fake news' is being weaponised to censor dissidents and restrict our online freedom," said Emilie Pradichit, director of the Thailand-based Manushya Foundation, which advocates for online rights. Pradichit said the move could be used to codify censorship, adding the centre would allow the government to be the "sole arbiter of truth". Transparency reports from internet companies such as Facebook and Google show Thai government requests to take down content or turn over information have ramped up since the military seized power in 2014. A law prohibiting criticism of the monarchy has often been the basis for such requests for Facebook. In Google's cases, government criticism was the main reason cited for removal of content.

Thailand unveils 'anti-fake news' centre to police the internet

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesias-jokowi-set-to-announce-new-cabinet-257602">Indonesian President Joko Widodo</a> said on Friday he had no plan to revoke a new law that critics fear could curb the powers of the country's anti-corruption agency and that has triggered nationwide demonstrations.

Passed into law in September, the revised 2002 bill governing the Corruption Eradication Commission, known by its Indonesian initials, KPK, means the agency will be overseen by a committee and no longer able to independently wiretap suspects.

Concerns over the bill that presides over the KPK has sparked nationwide protests for the past two months, during which there have been five deaths and scores injured.

Shortly after the bill was passed, Widodo had said he would consider replacing it by issuing a presidential regulation in lieu of a law.

But on Friday he told reporters he would press on with selecting members for the committee and also let the Constitutional Court decide upon a judicial review which was filed by students in the hope that the bill is dropped.

"Since the judicial review process is ongoing don't let there be a compounding legal decision," he told a meeting of reporters that was broadcast on television.

Widodo said he was currently selecting members for the overseeing committee for the KPK, with their inauguration set in December.

"We will choose those with the best credibility," he told reporters.

Mahfud MD, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesias-jokowi-kicks-off-fresh-term-after-wave-of-crises-256994">Indonesia's</a> security minister, also said in an interview with the Kompas TV station that he understood Widodo would not issue the regulation "because it has entered the judicial review process".

Critics of the new bill have also raised concerns about the makeup of the KPK’s new board of commissioners. Firli Bahuri, a police inspector general, will be inaugurated in December as the agency's chief. He has been accused of ethical violations during a previous attachment at the KPK, which he denies.

The KPK has prosecuted hundreds of politicians, officials and businessmen since its formation in 2002, becoming one of the country’s most respected agencies.

Adnan Topan Husodo, the coordinator of Indonesia Corruption Watch, accused Widodo of backtracking on pledges to support the fight against corruption.

"It has stopped being all about corruption eradication, and being more about politics," he said.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo said on Friday he had no plan to revoke a new law that critics fear could curb the powers of the country's anti-corruption agency and that has triggered nationwide demonstrations.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo said on Friday he had no plan to revoke a new law that critics fear could curb the powers of the country's anti-corruption agency and that has triggered nationwide demonstrations. Passed into law in September, the revised 2002 bill governing the Corruption Eradication Commission, known by its Indonesian initials, KPK, means the agency will be overseen by a committee and no longer able to independently wiretap suspects. Concerns over the bill that presides over the KPK has sparked nationwide protests for the past two months, during which there have been five deaths and scores injured. Shortly after the bill was passed, Widodo had said he would consider replacing it by issuing a presidential regulation in lieu of a law. But on Friday he told reporters he would press on with selecting members for the committee and also let the Constitutional Court decide upon a judicial review which was filed by students in the hope that the bill is dropped. "Since the judicial review process is ongoing don't let there be a compounding legal decision," he told a meeting of reporters that was broadcast on television. Widodo said he was currently selecting members for the overseeing committee for the KPK, with their inauguration set in December. "We will choose those with the best credibility," he told reporters. Mahfud MD, Indonesia's security minister, also said in an interview with the Kompas TV station that he understood Widodo would not issue the regulation "because it has entered the judicial review process". Critics of the new bill have also raised concerns about the makeup of the KPK’s new board of commissioners. Firli Bahuri, a police inspector general, will be inaugurated in December as the agency's chief. He has been accused of ethical violations during a previous attachment at the KPK, which he denies. The KPK has prosecuted hundreds of politicians, officials and businessmen since its formation in 2002, becoming one of the country’s most respected agencies. Adnan Topan Husodo, the coordinator of Indonesia Corruption Watch, accused Widodo of backtracking on pledges to support the fight against corruption. "It has stopped being all about corruption eradication, and being more about politics," he said.

Indonesia president says no plan to drop controversial anti-graft bill

India's Reliance Industries-controlled <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/reliance-mobile-operator-jio-to-focus-on-subscriber-numbers-not-tariffs-report-237503">Jio Infocomm</a> wrote to the telecoms minister on Thursday, opposing government intervention for rival carriers Bharti Airtel&nbsp;and Vodafone Idea&nbsp;facing overdue of $13 billion.

The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) had earlier written to Telecommunications Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, warning of an "unprecedented crisis" if the government refuses to relax its demand for outstanding dues.

Jio, the telecoms unit of billionaire Mukesh Ambani-controlled Reliance, said in its letter that fears of a crisis in the industry and job losses were overblown.

Rival carriers can monetise their assets, investments or issue fresh equity to pay the dues, it added.

India's Reliance Industries-controlled Jio Infocomm wrote to the telecoms minister on Thursday, opposing government intervention for rival carriers Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea facing overdue of $13 billion.

India's Reliance Industries-controlled Jio Infocomm wrote to the telecoms minister on Thursday, opposing government intervention for rival carriers Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea facing overdue of $13 billion. The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) had earlier written to Telecommunications Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, warning of an "unprecedented crisis" if the government refuses to relax its demand for outstanding dues. Jio, the telecoms unit of billionaire Mukesh Ambani-controlled Reliance, said in its letter that fears of a crisis in the industry and job losses were overblown. Rival carriers can monetise their assets, investments or issue fresh equity to pay the dues, it added.

Reliance's Jio opposes telecom lobby's plea for government help to rivals

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