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A dramatic series of events played out in Bolivia as the South American country came dangerously close to an armed regime change, following the thwarting of the attempted military coup the now dismissed General Juan Jose Zuniga accused of leading the charge has been placed under arrest by the Bolivian government. Watch in for more details!

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The first session of the 18th Lok Sabha in India began today with the oath-taking ceremony of the newly-elcted Member of Parliaments in the 18th Lok Sabha.

Parliament Session begins: Oppn leaders gear up to push NDA government for answers

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WION Headlines | India: Govt retains Ajit Doval as NSA | After US, UK sanctions Russia

Odisha's newly sworn-in BJP government fulfilled one of its election promises in its first few days and reopened Shree Jagannath Temple's all four gates in Puri on Thursday (June 13).

The government decided to reopen the gates of the temple in its first Cabinet meeting on Wednesday (June 12).

After the gates were reopened, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Manjhi, along with his ministers, Puri MP Sambit Patra, Balasore MP Pratap Chandra Sarangi and other leaders visited the temple.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mohan-charan-majhi-sworn-in-as-first-bjp-chief-minister-of-odisha-731119">Mohan Majhi sworn in as first BJP chief minister of Odisha, ending Naveen Patnaik's 24-year rule</a>

Speaking to news agency ANI, CM Majhi said, "We had proposed to open all four gates of Jagannath Temple in yesterday's cabinet meeting. The proposal was passed, and today at 6:30 am, I, along with my MLAs and Puri MP (Sambit Patra), attended the 'Mangala aarti'... For the development of the Jagannath Temple and for other works, we have proposed a fund in the cabinet. When we present the next state budget, we will allot a corpus fund for temple management."&nbsp;

<h2>Which four gates of the temple were reopened and why were they closed till now?</h2>

The four gates of the temple which were opened are - Simhadwara (Lion Gate), Ashwadwara (Horse Gate), Vyaghradwara (Tiger Gate), and Hastidwara (Elephant Gate). These gates are situated on the four sides of the temple.

During the Covid pandemic, all the doors of the temple were closed. After the gates were closed, the devotees were allowed entry into the temple through Simhadwara. However, other gates remained closed which led to a huge rush and long queues.&nbsp;

Among all the promises, the opening of Jagannath Temple's gates was the biggest one made by the BJP.

Watch:&nbsp;India Election Results: BJP set to form government in state of Odisha

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The devotees, who had been demanding the re-opening of all gates of the temple to ensure the revered idol's smooth darshan, welcomed the decision.&nbsp;

Speaking to ANI, Odisha minister Suryabanshi Suraj said, "During the elections, we had said that we would reopen all 4 gates... All four gates of the temple are going to be opened today. All members of the Council Ministers are present here. The CM is also present... A corpus fund worth Rs. 500 crores has also been announced for development projects... We took the oath yesterday and we are opening the gates today."&nbsp;

The Odisha cabinet also approved a new policy for farmers in which a minimum support price (MSP) for paddy was set at&nbsp;Rs 3,100 ($37.10) per quintal and this will be implemented in the next 100 days.

BJP's Mohan Charan Majhi took the oath as the chief minister of Odisha on Wednesday (June 12).&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Odisha's newly sworn-in BJP government fulfilled one of its election promises in its first few days and reopened Shree Jagannath Temple's all four gates in Puri on Thursday (June 13).

Odisha's newly sworn-in BJP government fulfilled one of its election promises in its first few days and reopened Shree Jagannath Temple's all four gates in Puri on Thursday (June 13). The government decided to reopen the gates of the temple in its first Cabinet meeting on Wednesday (June 12). After the gates were reopened, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Manjhi, along with his ministers, Puri MP Sambit Patra, Balasore MP Pratap Chandra Sarangi and other leaders visited the temple. Also Read: Mohan Majhi sworn in as first BJP chief minister of Odisha, ending Naveen Patnaik's 24-year rule Speaking to news agency ANI, CM Majhi said, "We had proposed to open all four gates of Jagannath Temple in yesterday's cabinet meeting. The proposal was passed, and today at 6:30 am, I, along with my MLAs and Puri MP (Sambit Patra), attended the 'Mangala aarti'... For the development of the Jagannath Temple and for other works, we have proposed a fund in the cabinet. When we present the next state budget, we will allot a corpus fund for temple management." Which four gates of the temple were reopened and why were they closed till now? The four gates of the temple which were opened are - Simhadwara (Lion Gate), Ashwadwara (Horse Gate), Vyaghradwara (Tiger Gate), and Hastidwara (Elephant Gate). These gates are situated on the four sides of the temple. During the Covid pandemic, all the doors of the temple were closed. After the gates were closed, the devotees were allowed entry into the temple through Simhadwara. However, other gates remained closed which led to a huge rush and long queues. Among all the promises, the opening of Jagannath Temple's gates was the biggest one made by the BJP. Watch: India Election Results: BJP set to form government in state of Odisha The devotees, who had been demanding the re-opening of all gates of the temple to ensure the revered idol's smooth darshan, welcomed the decision. Speaking to ANI, Odisha minister Suryabanshi Suraj said, "During the elections, we had said that we would reopen all 4 gates... All four gates of the temple are going to be opened today. All members of the Council Ministers are present here. The CM is also present... A corpus fund worth Rs. 500 crores has also been announced for development projects... We took the oath yesterday and we are opening the gates today." The Odisha cabinet also approved a new policy for farmers in which a minimum support price (MSP) for paddy was set at Rs 3,100 ($37.10) per quintal and this will be implemented in the next 100 days. BJP's Mohan Charan Majhi took the oath as the chief minister of Odisha on Wednesday (June 12). (With inputs from agencies)

Odisha's new BJP government keeps its promise, opens all four gates of Jagannath Temple in Puri

In the twilight hours of the national capital, India got its 16th prime minister when Narendra Modi was administered the oath of office and secrecy by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Sunday (June 9).

Along with Modi, 71 cabinet ministers were also sworn in during the grand oath-taking ceremony. As Modi took the oath,&nbsp;the crowds chanted "Modi Modi".

After taking the oath, PM Modi became the second person in the history of India to hold the office of the prime minister for three successive terms. Jawaharlal Nehru, who was the first prime minister of the country, had clinched victory in the 1952, 1957 and 1962 general elections.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-is-yours-rise-and-rise-of-undefeated-leader-of-indias-14bn-people-728501">Narendra Modi hits a hat-trick as India's PM, but the victory trumpet is mellow</a>

The BJP-led NDA government, after clinching a clear majority in Lok Sabha elections 2024, made decisions regarding the distribution of portfolios in the new cabinet in a marathon 11-hour meeting held at the Prime Minister's residence on June 8 (Saturday).&nbsp;

The meeting was attended by BJP leaders Amit Shah, JP Nadda and the party's national general secretary (organisation) BL Santhosh.

<h2>World leaders gather to witness India's history in making</h2>

The grand oath-taking ceremony, which was organised at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, also saw the presence of several foreign leaders and dignitaries.&nbsp;

The event was attended by Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Mauritius PM Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', Bhutan PM Tshering Tobgay and Seychelles Vice-President Ahmed Afif.

Watch:&nbsp;PM Modi Oath ceremony: From Nehru To Narendra Modi, A look at India's longest-serving PMs

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Across the national capital, the security was strengthened and prohibitory orders were imposed. Delhi was declared a no-fly zone and three-layered security was implemented both inside and outside the premises of the Rashtrapati Bhavan.&nbsp;

The president's house remained blanketed by five companies of paramilitary personnel, NSG commandoes, drones and snipers. Traffic restrictions were also applicable on various roads, especially those which ran around the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

In the Lok Sabha elections, the NDA won 293 of 543 seats, easily passing the majority mark of 272. The INDIA alliance gave&nbsp;a strong fight and managed to win 232 constituencies.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the twilight hours of the national capital, India got its 16th prime minister when Narendra Modi was administered the oath of office and secrecy by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Sunday (June 9).

In the twilight hours of the national capital, India got its 16th prime minister when Narendra Modi was administered the oath of office and secrecy by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Sunday (June 9). Along with Modi, 71 cabinet ministers were also sworn in during the grand oath-taking ceremony. As Modi took the oath, the crowds chanted "Modi Modi". After taking the oath, PM Modi became the second person in the history of India to hold the office of the prime minister for three successive terms. Jawaharlal Nehru, who was the first prime minister of the country, had clinched victory in the 1952, 1957 and 1962 general elections. Also Read: Narendra Modi hits a hat-trick as India's PM, but the victory trumpet is mellow The BJP-led NDA government, after clinching a clear majority in Lok Sabha elections 2024, made decisions regarding the distribution of portfolios in the new cabinet in a marathon 11-hour meeting held at the Prime Minister's residence on June 8 (Saturday). The meeting was attended by BJP leaders Amit Shah, JP Nadda and the party's national general secretary (organisation) BL Santhosh. World leaders gather to witness India's history in making The grand oath-taking ceremony, which was organised at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, also saw the presence of several foreign leaders and dignitaries. The event was attended by Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Mauritius PM Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', Bhutan PM Tshering Tobgay and Seychelles Vice-President Ahmed Afif. Watch: PM Modi Oath ceremony: From Nehru To Narendra Modi, A look at India's longest-serving PMs Across the national capital, the security was strengthened and prohibitory orders were imposed. Delhi was declared a no-fly zone and three-layered security was implemented both inside and outside the premises of the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The president's house remained blanketed by five companies of paramilitary personnel, NSG commandoes, drones and snipers. Traffic restrictions were also applicable on various roads, especially those which ran around the Rashtrapati Bhavan. In the Lok Sabha elections, the NDA won 293 of 543 seats, easily passing the majority mark of 272. The INDIA alliance gave a strong fight and managed to win 232 constituencies. (With inputs from agencies)

Narendra Modi takes oath as India's 16th prime minister, enters third term in a row

Taiwan's cabinet will reject and send back for review legislation the opposition&nbsp;passed on Tuesday on parliamentary reforms that have brought tens of thousands onto the streets to protest amid accusations of Chinese interference.

The peaceful protests, and sometimes&nbsp;violent confrontations in parliament over the reforms, have been taking place against a backdrop of broader concern about efforts by China, which views Taiwan as its own territory, to influence the island's politics and split Taiwanese public opinion.

The Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) Lai Ching-te won the presidency in January elections, but the party lost its majority in parliament. Taiwan's main opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), along with the small Taiwan People's Party, together have the most seats.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protests-erupt-as-opposition-controlled-taiwan-parliament-pushes-pro-china-reforms-726406">Protests erupt as opposition-controlled Taiwan parliament pushes pro-China&nbsp;‘reforms’</a>

The parliament reforms give lawmakers the power to ask the military, private companies or individuals to disclose information deemed relevant by parliamentarians, who have the power to punish those who fail to co-operate.

They also criminalise contempt of parliament by government officials, and require the president to give regular reports to parliament and answer lawmakers' questions, which would be a first for Taiwan.

In a statement late on Monday, the cabinet said the legislation could breach the constitution and separation of power between the executive and legislative branches, and once it had received the documents it will send them back for parliament to reconsider.

The cabinet said while that was likely to be vetoed by parliament, it was "duty bound" to do this.

The DPP, which says the reforms were forced through without proper consultation and their content either vague or an over-reach of power, said it would support its lawmakers to ask the constitutional court for an interpretation on whether the laws and the way the reforms were pushed through were constitutional.

The DPP, and many of the protesters, have repeatedly accused the KMT of being in league with Beijing in trying to ram through the legislation.

Watch:&nbsp;Taiwan-China tensions: Is China preparing to invade Taiwan?

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Several senior KMT leaders have visited China this year in what the party says is an effort to keep open lines of communication. China refuses to talk to Lai or his party, saying they are "separatists".

The KMT strongly denies being pro-Beijing and says the parliament reforms are meant to improve government accountability.

"The KMT dismisses the accusations of collusion with China as unfounded and politically driven," the party said in statement in the early hours of Wednesday.

China views Taiwan as its own territory. The government in Taipei rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims, saying only the island's people can decide their future.

Taiwan's cabinet will reject and send back for review legislation the opposition passed on Tuesday on parliamentary reforms that have brought tens of thousands onto the streets to protest amid accusations of Chinese interference.

Taiwan's cabinet will reject and send back for review legislation the opposition passed on Tuesday on parliamentary reforms that have brought tens of thousands onto the streets to protest amid accusations of Chinese interference. The peaceful protests, and sometimes violent confrontations in parliament over the reforms, have been taking place against a backdrop of broader concern about efforts by China, which views Taiwan as its own territory, to influence the island's politics and split Taiwanese public opinion. The Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) Lai Ching-te won the presidency in January elections, but the party lost its majority in parliament. Taiwan's main opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), along with the small Taiwan People's Party, together have the most seats. Also Read: Protests erupt as opposition-controlled Taiwan parliament pushes pro-China ‘reforms’ The parliament reforms give lawmakers the power to ask the military, private companies or individuals to disclose information deemed relevant by parliamentarians, who have the power to punish those who fail to co-operate. They also criminalise contempt of parliament by government officials, and require the president to give regular reports to parliament and answer lawmakers' questions, which would be a first for Taiwan. In a statement late on Monday, the cabinet said the legislation could breach the constitution and separation of power between the executive and legislative branches, and once it had received the documents it will send them back for parliament to reconsider. The cabinet said while that was likely to be vetoed by parliament, it was "duty bound" to do this. The DPP, which says the reforms were forced through without proper consultation and their content either vague or an over-reach of power, said it would support its lawmakers to ask the constitutional court for an interpretation on whether the laws and the way the reforms were pushed through were constitutional. The DPP, and many of the protesters, have repeatedly accused the KMT of being in league with Beijing in trying to ram through the legislation. Watch: Taiwan-China tensions: Is China preparing to invade Taiwan? Several senior KMT leaders have visited China this year in what the party says is an effort to keep open lines of communication. China refuses to talk to Lai or his party, saying they are "separatists". The KMT strongly denies being pro-Beijing and says the parliament reforms are meant to improve government accountability. "The KMT dismisses the accusations of collusion with China as unfounded and politically driven," the party said in statement in the early hours of Wednesday. China views Taiwan as its own territory. The government in Taipei rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims, saying only the island's people can decide their future.

Taiwan government to reject contested parliament reforms

Patrick Vallance, the former chief scientific adviser to the United Kingdom government, said that the nation is not ready for another pandemic, which is "absolutely inevitable". Watch in for more details!

UK Scientist terms future pandemic as 'inevitable,' asks Britain to be better prepared

A Hong Kong appeals court has supported the government's move to ban 'Glory to Hong Kong,' a song that emerged during the 2019 protests in Hong Kong and quickly became an anthem for the pro-democracy movement.

The song's lyrics express sentiments of resilience among the people of Hong Kong in their struggle for freedom and democracy. Last year, in a ruling, a Hong Kong court dismissed a contentious injunction sought by the city's government to prohibit the widely embraced anthem.

The legal dispute had sparked apprehensions regarding the escalating government regulation of online expression within the city. The court's rejection of the injunction bid at that time highlighted that the dissemination of the song is already subject to punishment under Hong Kong's National Security Law, a piece of legislation imposed by China in June 2020 that aims to prevent and punish acts of secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces, which are perceived as threats to national security.&nbsp;

Now, the Court of Appeal judges announced their decision on Wednesday (May 8) banning the song that gained popularity through social media and was sung by protesters during demonstrations. Its stirring melody and powerful lyrics resonated deeply with many Hong Kongers and served as a rallying cry for their cause.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-unveils-tool-to-detect-dall-e-images-719273">OpenAI unveils tool to detect DALL-E images</a>

The song, associated with the 2019 protests, has been perceived as the city's anthem, particularly evident in instances where it was played instead of China's anthem at international sporting events.

During the appeal, the government's representative referenced an interview where the song's composer referred to it as a "weapon" that contributed to the 2019 protests. Senior Counsel Benjamin Yu during the proceedings said, "The song is regarded by the composer himself as a weapon."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-palestinian-protests-spark-clashes-and-arrests-across-european-campuses-719272">Pro-Palestinian protests spark clashes and arrests across European campuses</a>

Despite the enactment of the national security law, which aimed to quell dissent, 'Glory to Hong Kong' was played over 800 times, according to police estimates cited by Yu.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-us-halts-bomb-shipment-to-israel-move-comes-amid-israeli-strikes-on-rafah-719265">Israel-Hamas war: US halts bomb shipment to Israel, move comes amid Israeli strikes on Rafah</a>

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The judges ruled that its slogan could incite secession, an offence under the national security law.

Hong Kong authorities requested Google to remove the song from search results and prioritise correct information, although Google requested evidence of the song's violation of local laws.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Hong Kong appeals court has supported the government's move to ban 'Glory to Hong Kong,' a song that emerged during the 2019 protests in Hong Kong and quickly became an anthem for the pro-democracy movement.

A Hong Kong appeals court has supported the government's move to ban 'Glory to Hong Kong,' a song that emerged during the 2019 protests in Hong Kong and quickly became an anthem for the pro-democracy movement. The song's lyrics express sentiments of resilience among the people of Hong Kong in their struggle for freedom and democracy. Last year, in a ruling, a Hong Kong court dismissed a contentious injunction sought by the city's government to prohibit the widely embraced anthem. The legal dispute had sparked apprehensions regarding the escalating government regulation of online expression within the city. The court's rejection of the injunction bid at that time highlighted that the dissemination of the song is already subject to punishment under Hong Kong's National Security Law, a piece of legislation imposed by China in June 2020 that aims to prevent and punish acts of secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces, which are perceived as threats to national security. Now, the Court of Appeal judges announced their decision on Wednesday (May 8) banning the song that gained popularity through social media and was sung by protesters during demonstrations. Its stirring melody and powerful lyrics resonated deeply with many Hong Kongers and served as a rallying cry for their cause. Also Read | OpenAI unveils tool to detect DALL-E images The song, associated with the 2019 protests, has been perceived as the city's anthem, particularly evident in instances where it was played instead of China's anthem at international sporting events. During the appeal, the government's representative referenced an interview where the song's composer referred to it as a "weapon" that contributed to the 2019 protests. Senior Counsel Benjamin Yu during the proceedings said, "The song is regarded by the composer himself as a weapon." Also Read | Pro-Palestinian protests spark clashes and arrests across European campuses Despite the enactment of the national security law, which aimed to quell dissent, 'Glory to Hong Kong' was played over 800 times, according to police estimates cited by Yu. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: US halts bomb shipment to Israel, move comes amid Israeli strikes on Rafah × The judges ruled that its slogan could incite secession, an offence under the national security law. Hong Kong authorities requested Google to remove the song from search results and prioritise correct information, although Google requested evidence of the song's violation of local laws. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong appeals court backs ban on protest anthem 'Glory to Hong Kong'

Nepal's ruling coalition splits after lawmakers apply for new party. Now as the coalition partner in PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda-led government has split the coalition's future is uncertain. Watch in for more details!

Nepal PM's coalition ally splits in revolt against party leader

Chinese scientists claim to have discovered an anti-ageing component in the blood of young mice, with the longest surviving mouse in their study living for up to 1,266 days - equivalent to 120-130 human years. Watch to know more.

Chinese scientists test theory on ageing mice

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Hamas to swiftly accept an Israeli proposal for a truce in the Gaza war and the release of Israeli hostages held.

Israel war: Blinken in Israel to push for truce, says 'will press Netanyahu on Gaza aid'

Amid Myanmar's escalating crisis, the National Unity Government (NUG) is actively seeking formal engagement with India, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. Zaw Kyaw, spokesperson for the Office of the President, NUG, conveyed the NUG's plea in an interview with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal. Kyaw urged India to reassess its engagement with the military junta and opt for conversation with the NUG.

Myanmar's National Unity Government Seeks Formal engagement with India

Iran stated that it would give permission to the Indian govt representatives to meet the Indian crew onboard the seized cargo ship, MSC Aries.&nbsp;

The breakthrough was made when India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Dr. Amir Abdollahian on Sunday (April 14).

The announcement was made in Iran's readout which said,&nbsp;"Dr. Amir Abdollahian, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of our country, informed his Indian counterpart during a telephone conversation about Iran's legitimate defence and the punishment of the Israeli regime."

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-chief-warns-middle-east-is-on-brink-as-israel-iran-engage-in-war-of-words-at-unsc-711285">&nbsp;UN chief warns 'Middle East is on brink' as Israel, Iran engage in war of words at UNSC</a>

"He called for India's continued role through international institutions, including the UN Security Council, to stop the war in Gaza, which is the root of current crises in the region, as well as to end the aggressions and crimes of the Zionist regime," the readout added.

"The minister reiterated Iran's demand for a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza and the establishment of peace and security in the region from the Mediterranean shores to the Red Sea. The Indian foreign minister also stated that the most important issue for them is to witness a reduction in tensions. They are calling for responsibility from all parties and a favourable end to alleviate current tensions and improve the situation," the statement said.

Watch:&nbsp;India, Iran discuss situation in West Asia, S Jaishankar speaks to Iranian counterpart

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Speaking about the situation of the Indian crew members, the readout stated, "Finally, the Indian foreign minister expressed concern about the situation of 17 Indian crew members on a detained ship by Iran and requested assistance from the Islamic Republic in this regard. Dr Amir Abdollahian mentioned that they are following up on the details related to the detained ship and soon the possibility of representatives of the Indian government meeting with the crew of the mentioned ship will be provided."&nbsp;

<h2>What did India say about the Indian crew?</h2>

The Indian side stated that they were in touch with the Iranian authorities to ensure the release of&nbsp;17 Indian nationals&nbsp;who were among the 25 crew members of the cargo ship which was seized by a special forces unit of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in the Gulf of Hormuz, nearly 80 km off the coast of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

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Spoke to Iranian FM <a href="https://twitter.com/Amirabdolahian?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Amirabdolahian</a> this evening. 
 
Took up the release of 17 Indian crew members of MSC Aries. 
 
Discussed the current situation in the region. Stressed the importance of avoiding escalation, exercising restraint and returning to diplomacy. 
 
Agreed to remain…
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (Modi Ka Parivar) (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1779547273975988578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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After the meeting, S Jaishankar had written on X, "Took up the release of 17 Indian crew members of MSC Aries. Discussed the current situation in the region. Stressed the importance of avoiding escalation, exercising restraint and returning to diplomacy. Agreed to remain in touch."&nbsp;

There has been growing concern in India over the Israel-Hamas conflict and the recent escalation in tensions between Iran and Israel.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving &nbsp;Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran stated that it would give permission to the Indian govt representatives to meet the Indian crew onboard the seized cargo ship, MSC Aries. The breakthrough was made when India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Dr.

Iran stated that it would give permission to the Indian govt representatives to meet the Indian crew onboard the seized cargo ship, MSC Aries. The breakthrough was made when India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Dr. Amir Abdollahian on Sunday (April 14). The announcement was made in Iran's readout which said, "Dr. Amir Abdollahian, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of our country, informed his Indian counterpart during a telephone conversation about Iran's legitimate defence and the punishment of the Israeli regime." Also Read: UN chief warns 'Middle East is on brink' as Israel, Iran engage in war of words at UNSC "He called for India's continued role through international institutions, including the UN Security Council, to stop the war in Gaza, which is the root of current crises in the region, as well as to end the aggressions and crimes of the Zionist regime," the readout added. "The minister reiterated Iran's demand for a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza and the establishment of peace and security in the region from the Mediterranean shores to the Red Sea. The Indian foreign minister also stated that the most important issue for them is to witness a reduction in tensions. They are calling for responsibility from all parties and a favourable end to alleviate current tensions and improve the situation," the statement said. Watch: India, Iran discuss situation in West Asia, S Jaishankar speaks to Iranian counterpart Speaking about the situation of the Indian crew members, the readout stated, "Finally, the Indian foreign minister expressed concern about the situation of 17 Indian crew members on a detained ship by Iran and requested assistance from the Islamic Republic in this regard. Dr Amir Abdollahian mentioned that they are following up on the details related to the detained ship and soon the possibility of representatives of the Indian government meeting with the crew of the mentioned ship will be provided." What did India say about the Indian crew? The Indian side stated that they were in touch with the Iranian authorities to ensure the release of 17 Indian nationals who were among the 25 crew members of the cargo ship which was seized by a special forces unit of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in the Gulf of Hormuz, nearly 80 km off the coast of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Spoke to Iranian FM @Amirabdolahian this evening. Took up the release of 17 Indian crew members of MSC Aries. Discussed the current situation in the region. Stressed the importance of avoiding escalation, exercising restraint and returning to diplomacy. Agreed to remain… — Dr. S. Jaishankar (Modi Ka Parivar) (@DrSJaishankar) April 14, 2024 × After the meeting, S Jaishankar had written on X, "Took up the release of 17 Indian crew members of MSC Aries. Discussed the current situation in the region. Stressed the importance of avoiding escalation, exercising restraint and returning to diplomacy. Agreed to remain in touch." There has been growing concern in India over the Israel-Hamas conflict and the recent escalation in tensions between Iran and Israel. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran to allow Indian govt representatives to meet 17 citizens onboard seized cargo ship

The United States Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), in fresh claims, said that their access to the email system of Microsoft was misused by Russian government-backed hackers to steal correspondence between the tech giant and officials.

The new claims were made in an emergency directive which was issued by the US watchdog on Thursday (April 11).

The agency, in its directive which was dated April 2, issued a warning that the authentication details shared by Microsoft email are being exploited by hackers to gain entry into the customer systems of Microsoft, which included the systems of some unspecified number of government agencies.

Speaking to the reporters, US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) senior official Eric Goldstein said that &nbsp;“several” US federal agencies have been notified by Microsoft about the possibility of hackers stealing their emails by getting access to login information like usernames, or passwords.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-hackers-break-into-south-korean-chip-equipment-firms-seoul-696774">North Korean hackers broke into South Korean chip equipment firms: Seoul</a>

“At this time, we are not aware of any agency production environments that have experienced a compromise as a result of a credential exposure,” said Goldstein.&nbsp;

The US watchdog's warning that the stolen Microsoft emails are being used to target government agencies follows the announcement made by the company in March that it was still dealing with the intruders, who had been nicknamed "Midnight Blizzard."

<h2>CISA appeals to civilian agencies to increase their defences</h2>

An “emergency directive” was publicly released by CISA on Thursday (April 11) which gave orders to civilian agencies, which were likely to be affected by the hacking campaign, to increase their defences.&nbsp;

CISA said that the potential leak of agency login credentials is an “unacceptable risk to agencies.”

In an email, Microsoft said that it was "working with our customers to help them investigate and mitigate. This includes working with CISA on an emergency directive to provide guidance to government agencies."

Speaking to CNN on Thursday (April 11), a Microsoft spokesperson said, “As we shared in our March 8 blog, as we discover secrets in our exfiltrated email, we are working with our customers to help them investigate and mitigate. This includes working with CISA on an emergency directive to provide guidance to government agencies.”

Watch:&nbsp;Who is behind hacking operation against US and UK?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-is-behind-hacking-operation-against-us-and-uk-704564/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Last week, the US Cyber Safety Review Board submitted a report in which China was blamed for a separate hack. It was said that the hack was preventable and it was a result of a deliberate lack of transparency and cybersecurity lapses.

CISA further said that the hackers may have tried to attack other non-governmental groups as well. "Other organisations may also have been impacted by the exfiltration of Microsoft corporate email," said CISA.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The United States Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), in fresh claims, said that their access to the email system of Microsoft was misused by Russian government-backed hackers to steal correspondence between the tech giant and officials.

The United States Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), in fresh claims, said that their access to the email system of Microsoft was misused by Russian government-backed hackers to steal correspondence between the tech giant and officials. The new claims were made in an emergency directive which was issued by the US watchdog on Thursday (April 11). The agency, in its directive which was dated April 2, issued a warning that the authentication details shared by Microsoft email are being exploited by hackers to gain entry into the customer systems of Microsoft, which included the systems of some unspecified number of government agencies. Speaking to the reporters, US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) senior official Eric Goldstein said that “several” US federal agencies have been notified by Microsoft about the possibility of hackers stealing their emails by getting access to login information like usernames, or passwords. Also Read: North Korean hackers broke into South Korean chip equipment firms: Seoul “At this time, we are not aware of any agency production environments that have experienced a compromise as a result of a credential exposure,” said Goldstein. The US watchdog's warning that the stolen Microsoft emails are being used to target government agencies follows the announcement made by the company in March that it was still dealing with the intruders, who had been nicknamed "Midnight Blizzard." CISA appeals to civilian agencies to increase their defences An “emergency directive” was publicly released by CISA on Thursday (April 11) which gave orders to civilian agencies, which were likely to be affected by the hacking campaign, to increase their defences. CISA said that the potential leak of agency login credentials is an “unacceptable risk to agencies.” In an email, Microsoft said that it was "working with our customers to help them investigate and mitigate. This includes working with CISA on an emergency directive to provide guidance to government agencies." Speaking to CNN on Thursday (April 11), a Microsoft spokesperson said, “As we shared in our March 8 blog, as we discover secrets in our exfiltrated email, we are working with our customers to help them investigate and mitigate. This includes working with CISA on an emergency directive to provide guidance to government agencies.” Watch: Who is behind hacking operation against US and UK? Last week, the US Cyber Safety Review Board submitted a report in which China was blamed for a separate hack. It was said that the hack was preventable and it was a result of a deliberate lack of transparency and cybersecurity lapses. CISA further said that the hackers may have tried to attack other non-governmental groups as well. "Other organisations may also have been impacted by the exfiltration of Microsoft corporate email," said CISA. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian hackers used Microsoft to access govt emails: US cyber agency

The high court of the Indian state of Karnataka rejected a circular which was issued by the Indian government directing a ban on 23 breeds of "ferocious dogs considered dangerous for human life".&nbsp;

The high court emphasised that “none of the stakeholders”, especially those groups which represented pet owners, were taken into consultation in the process.

<h2>Govt free to issue revised circular: Judge</h2>

A single-judge bench of Justice M Nagaprasanna issued the order and added that the union government is free to issue a revised circular after proper consultation with experts and following due process.&nbsp;

“It is an admitted fact that none of the stakeholders were heard. The composition of the committee is not in consonance with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. The Union of India could not have imposed the ban without a recommendation from a properly constituted committee,” reported legal news website LiveLaw, while citing the order.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/role-reversal-humans-to-blame-shocking-study-reveals-humans-infect-animals-twice-as-much-704746">We are the infectors: Humans pass on viruses to animals twice than the other way around!</a>

The judge said that the circular “travels beyond what is found in Animal Birth Control Rules” and “cannot but be held to be contrary to the law and therefore has to be obliterated”.

“It is an admitted fact that none of the stakeholders are heard. The composition of the committee is not in consonance with the Rule framed under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. The Union of India could not have imposed the ban without an appropriate recommendation from a properly constituted committee,” read the ruling, as per LiveLaw.

The court stressed the importance of consulting pet owners and relevant organisations before implementing such bans and held that stakeholders should include organisations certifying dog breeds and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). “The focus of such consultations should be on responsible pet ownership,” it said.

Watch:&nbsp;Are Humans giving more viruses to animals than they give us?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/are-humans-giving-more-viruses-to-animals-than-they-give-us-704870/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The court passed the order after a professional dog handler and the owner of a Rottweiler filed a joint petition alleging that the expert committee had not consulted any stakeholders before the issuance of the circular. The committee's recommendations led to the issuance of the circular.

Advocate Swaroop Anand P had represented the petitioners before the High Court and the case for the central government was presented by the Additional Solicitor General Aravind Kamat.&nbsp;

The circular, which has now been scrapped, appealed to all states and Union territories to prohibit 23 breeds of dogs that were categorised hazardous and ‘ferocious’ to human life.

(With inputs from agencies)

The high court of the Indian state of Karnataka rejected a circular which was issued by the Indian government directing a ban on 23 breeds of "ferocious dogs considered dangerous for human life".

The high court of the Indian state of Karnataka rejected a circular which was issued by the Indian government directing a ban on 23 breeds of "ferocious dogs considered dangerous for human life". The high court emphasised that “none of the stakeholders”, especially those groups which represented pet owners, were taken into consultation in the process. Govt free to issue revised circular: Judge A single-judge bench of Justice M Nagaprasanna issued the order and added that the union government is free to issue a revised circular after proper consultation with experts and following due process. “It is an admitted fact that none of the stakeholders were heard. The composition of the committee is not in consonance with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. The Union of India could not have imposed the ban without a recommendation from a properly constituted committee,” reported legal news website LiveLaw, while citing the order. Also Read: We are the infectors: Humans pass on viruses to animals twice than the other way around! The judge said that the circular “travels beyond what is found in Animal Birth Control Rules” and “cannot but be held to be contrary to the law and therefore has to be obliterated”. “It is an admitted fact that none of the stakeholders are heard. The composition of the committee is not in consonance with the Rule framed under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. The Union of India could not have imposed the ban without an appropriate recommendation from a properly constituted committee,” read the ruling, as per LiveLaw. The court stressed the importance of consulting pet owners and relevant organisations before implementing such bans and held that stakeholders should include organisations certifying dog breeds and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). “The focus of such consultations should be on responsible pet ownership,” it said. Watch: Are Humans giving more viruses to animals than they give us? The court passed the order after a professional dog handler and the owner of a Rottweiler filed a joint petition alleging that the expert committee had not consulted any stakeholders before the issuance of the circular. The committee's recommendations led to the issuance of the circular. Advocate Swaroop Anand P had represented the petitioners before the High Court and the case for the central government was presented by the Additional Solicitor General Aravind Kamat. The circular, which has now been scrapped, appealed to all states and Union territories to prohibit 23 breeds of dogs that were categorised hazardous and ‘ferocious’ to human life. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian court revokes ban imposed on 23 'ferocious' dog breeds by govt

In response to rising cyber crimes in India, the Indian government and banks have stepped up their efforts to warn citizens about online scams. Indians have been receiving an increased number of warning messages in the form of SMS alerts.

India: Government and banks heighten fraud alerts amid surge in cybercrime

The United States called the sudden withdrawal of the Israeli military's troops from the southern Gaza Strip a "rest and refit" plan and not something which indicates any new operations.&nbsp;

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby, in an interview with ABC News, said, "As we understand it, and through their public announcements, it is really just about rest and refit for these troops ... and not necessarily that we can tell indicative of some coming new operation for these troops."&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-military-withdraws-most-troops-from-southern-gaza-says-idf-spokesperson-708661">Israeli military withdraws most troops from southern Gaza, says IDF spokesperson</a>

Earlier, the Israeli military announced that it is withdrawing troops from south Gaza and that there will be only one brigade six months after the Israel-Hamas war started in the wake of the October 7 attack by the militant group on Israel.

<h2>Israel needs to make more changes: US&nbsp;</h2>

Speaking about the timeline of statements issued by US President Joe Biden and others over the Israel-Hamas war, Kirby said, “I’m glad you brought that timeline up because it shows the degree … the growing degree of frustration that we’ve had with the way these operations are being prosecuted and the way that Israelis are acting on the ground in terms of civilian casualties."

“So we have been increasingly frustrated. And again, that was a core message that the president delivered to Prime Minister [Benjamin] Netanyahu in their phone call this … past week … that they’ve got to do more, they’ve got to make changes,” he added.

Kirby said that Netanyahu on Sunday (April 7) “assured” Biden that he will make changes in the military operations of Israel.

Watch:&nbsp;Ready for face off: Israel | IDF removes forces from South Gaza

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ready-for-face-off-israel-idf-removes-forces-from-south-gaza-708719/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“We’ve seen some announcements in those early hours, that’s welcome. We’ve got to see more. We’ve got to see it over time," said Kirby.

The withdrawal of troops took place days after seven international foreign aid workers, belonging to the World Central Kitchen, were killed in an Israeli strike in central Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

The United States called the sudden withdrawal of the Israeli military's troops from the southern Gaza Strip a "rest and refit" plan and not something which indicates any new operations.

The United States called the sudden withdrawal of the Israeli military's troops from the southern Gaza Strip a "rest and refit" plan and not something which indicates any new operations. White House national security spokesperson John Kirby, in an interview with ABC News, said, "As we understand it, and through their public announcements, it is really just about rest and refit for these troops ... and not necessarily that we can tell indicative of some coming new operation for these troops." Also Read: Israeli military withdraws most troops from southern Gaza, says IDF spokesperson Earlier, the Israeli military announced that it is withdrawing troops from south Gaza and that there will be only one brigade six months after the Israel-Hamas war started in the wake of the October 7 attack by the militant group on Israel. Israel needs to make more changes: US Speaking about the timeline of statements issued by US President Joe Biden and others over the Israel-Hamas war, Kirby said, “I’m glad you brought that timeline up because it shows the degree … the growing degree of frustration that we’ve had with the way these operations are being prosecuted and the way that Israelis are acting on the ground in terms of civilian casualties." “So we have been increasingly frustrated. And again, that was a core message that the president delivered to Prime Minister [Benjamin] Netanyahu in their phone call this … past week … that they’ve got to do more, they’ve got to make changes,” he added. Kirby said that Netanyahu on Sunday (April 7) “assured” Biden that he will make changes in the military operations of Israel. Watch: Ready for face off: Israel | IDF removes forces from South Gaza “We’ve seen some announcements in those early hours, that’s welcome. We’ve got to see more. We’ve got to see it over time," said Kirby. The withdrawal of troops took place days after seven international foreign aid workers, belonging to the World Central Kitchen, were killed in an Israeli strike in central Gaza. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

'Frustrated' Biden administration says Israel's withdrawal from south Gaza not indicative of new operations

War-ravaged Iraq is now emerging as a prime investment destination for wealthy gulf nations. This is likely to have a major impact on the geopolitical landscape of the gulf region, where the rising spectre of Iran threatens the Arab world. Watch in for more details!

Iraq govt pushing for more investments from Arab neighbours

It is summer time in India, when power consumption reaches its peak every year. In a bid to reduce supply interruptions, the Indian government may invoke an emergency rule to run gas-fired power plants during the summer.

India: Govt may invoke emergency rule to run gas-fired power plants

The Indian government has taken steps to address concerns over information security. An internal advisory has been issued by officials on the threat of information leakage through CCTV cameras. Watch in for more details!

India: Government issues internal advisory on CCTV security to Ministries

Demonstrators join families of hostages in cities across country and vow to persist until he is ousted as PM. Watch to know more.

Israel war: Tens of thousands protest against Netanyahu government in Jerusalem

The Dutch government is making a $2.7 BN investment in the Eindhoven region, home to tech giant ASML. This move comes amid concerns raised by ASML, Europe's leading manufacturer of chipmaking equipment, about the country's business climate.

Dutch government invests $2.7 BN to keep tech giant ASML

Indian Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday (Mar 26) said the central government will consider revoking the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act in Jammu and Kashmir.

In an interview with the JK Media Group, Shah also said the government has plans to pull back troops in the Union Territory (UT) and leave law and order to the Jammu and Kashmir Police alone.

"We have plans to pull back troops and leave law and order to the Jammu and Kashmir Police alone. Earlier, the Jammu and Kashmir police was not trusted but today they are leading the operations," he said.

On the controversial AFSPA, the home minister said, "We will also think of revoking AFSPA."

The AFSPA gives the armed forces personnel, operating in the disturbed areas, sweeping powers to search, arrest and to open fire if they deem it necessary for "the maintenance of public order".

An area or district is notified as disturbed under the AFSPA to facilitate the operations of the armed forces.

Shah had earlier said the AFSPA has been removed in 70 per cent areas in the northeastern states even though it is in force in J-K.

There have been demands from various organisations and individuals in J-K and the northeastern states to revoke the AFSPA.

Shah said the assembly elections will be held in J-K before September. 
"Enshrining democracy in Jammu and Kashmir is Prime Minister Narendra Modi's promise and it will be fulfilled. However, this democracy will not be confined to three families alone and will be a people's democracy," he said.

The Supreme Court had directed to conduct the assembly polls in the UT before September.

On the issues that have emerged around the reservation of SCs, STs and OBCs, Mr Shah said for the first time, the OBCs of J-K have been given reservation by the Modi government and women have been given one-third reservation.

"OBC reservations have been made in the panchayat and the urban local bodies. We have made space for the SCs and the STs. Without reducing the share of the Gujjar and Bakarwals, the Pahadis have been given 10 per cent reservation. And special provisions have been made to accommodate the displaced people from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir," he said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-elections-bjps-amit-shah-meets-tdps-chandrababu-naidu-discuss-possibility-of-alliance-697898">India elections: BJP's Amit Shah meets TDP's Chandrababu Naidu, discuss possibility of alliance</a>

The Centre is determined to ensure that these benefits percolate to the grassroots level, he said.

Shah claimed that National Conference (NC) leader Farooq Abdullah and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti tried their best to create acrimony on these reservations but the people have understood their intentions now.

He asked why the NC did not give reservation to these people in the last over 75 years.

The home minister claimed Abdullah had left for England when terrorism was at its peak. Both Abdullah and Mehbooba have no right to speak about on the issue, he added.

"The number of fake encounters that took place during their time has never been matched by any other regime," he said.

Shah said in the last five years, not a single fake encounter has taken place. Rather the FIRs have been lodged against the people involved in fake encounters, he added.

Watch:&nbsp;'CAA will never be taken back, no compromise': Amit Shah's stern message

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/caa-will-never-be-taken-back-no-compromise-amit-shahs-stern-message-700090/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We will have a dialogue with the youths of Kashmir and not with the organisations that have roots in Pakistan. They are responsible for the deaths of 40,000 youths," he said.

He said the Modi government has banned 12 organisations for their involvement in terror activities, designated 36 individuals as terrorists, registered more than 22 cases to stop terror finance and seized properties worth ₹ 150 crore.

As many as 90 properties were also attached and 134 bank accounts have been frozen, he said.

"We have enshrined peace, and peace cannot be bought. Whoever wants to have a dialogue has to do so within the ambit of the Constitution," he said.

Shah said the Hurriyat Conference has no place in the process of dialogue. He also made it clear that the BJP and the entire Parliament believe that the POK is an integral part of India.

"The Muslim brothers are also Indians and the Hindu brothers living in POK are also Indians and the land which has been illegally occupied by Pakistan also belongs to India. It is the goal of every Indian, every Kashmiri to get it back," he said.

The home minister said in 2010, there were 2564 incidents of stone-pelting which now is zero.

From 2004 to 2014, there were 7217 terror incidents. That has reduced to 2227 from 2014 to 2023, and this is almost a 70 per cent reduction, he said.

Shah said the total number of deaths from 2004 to 2014 was 2829 and it has come down to 915 during 2014-23, which is a 68 per cent decrease. 
The deaths of civilians was 1770 and has decreased to 341, which is an 81 per cent drop. The deaths of security forces decreased from 1060 to 574, which is a 46 per cent decrease, he said.

The senior BJP leader said without the support of the people, such a comprehensive change can never take place.

"The people who talk about Islam should know that 85 per cent of the deceased were our Muslim brothers and sisters," he said.

Shah also asked the youths of J-K to stay away from the conspiracies of Pakistan.

"Today Pakistan is shrouded by the scourge of hunger and poverty and even people there see Kashmir as heaven. I want to tell everyone that if anyone can save Kashmir, he is Prime Minister Modi," he said.

The home minister said the Modi government is boosting the morale of the security forces by giving jobs to the family members of the martyrs.

"Today, not a single martyr's family is left without a job," he said.&nbsp;

Indian Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday (Mar 26) said the central government will consider revoking the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act in Jammu and Kashmir.

Indian Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday (Mar 26) said the central government will consider revoking the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act in Jammu and Kashmir. In an interview with the JK Media Group, Shah also said the government has plans to pull back troops in the Union Territory (UT) and leave law and order to the Jammu and Kashmir Police alone. "We have plans to pull back troops and leave law and order to the Jammu and Kashmir Police alone. Earlier, the Jammu and Kashmir police was not trusted but today they are leading the operations," he said. On the controversial AFSPA, the home minister said, "We will also think of revoking AFSPA." The AFSPA gives the armed forces personnel, operating in the disturbed areas, sweeping powers to search, arrest and to open fire if they deem it necessary for "the maintenance of public order". An area or district is notified as disturbed under the AFSPA to facilitate the operations of the armed forces. Shah had earlier said the AFSPA has been removed in 70 per cent areas in the northeastern states even though it is in force in J-K. There have been demands from various organisations and individuals in J-K and the northeastern states to revoke the AFSPA. Shah said the assembly elections will be held in J-K before September. "Enshrining democracy in Jammu and Kashmir is Prime Minister Narendra Modi's promise and it will be fulfilled. However, this democracy will not be confined to three families alone and will be a people's democracy," he said. The Supreme Court had directed to conduct the assembly polls in the UT before September. On the issues that have emerged around the reservation of SCs, STs and OBCs, Mr Shah said for the first time, the OBCs of J-K have been given reservation by the Modi government and women have been given one-third reservation. "OBC reservations have been made in the panchayat and the urban local bodies. We have made space for the SCs and the STs. Without reducing the share of the Gujjar and Bakarwals, the Pahadis have been given 10 per cent reservation. And special provisions have been made to accommodate the displaced people from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir," he said. Also Read: India elections: BJP's Amit Shah meets TDP's Chandrababu Naidu, discuss possibility of alliance The Centre is determined to ensure that these benefits percolate to the grassroots level, he said. Shah claimed that National Conference (NC) leader Farooq Abdullah and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti tried their best to create acrimony on these reservations but the people have understood their intentions now. He asked why the NC did not give reservation to these people in the last over 75 years. The home minister claimed Abdullah had left for England when terrorism was at its peak. Both Abdullah and Mehbooba have no right to speak about on the issue, he added. "The number of fake encounters that took place during their time has never been matched by any other regime," he said. Shah said in the last five years, not a single fake encounter has taken place. Rather the FIRs have been lodged against the people involved in fake encounters, he added. Watch: 'CAA will never be taken back, no compromise': Amit Shah's stern message "We will have a dialogue with the youths of Kashmir and not with the organisations that have roots in Pakistan. They are responsible for the deaths of 40,000 youths," he said. He said the Modi government has banned 12 organisations for their involvement in terror activities, designated 36 individuals as terrorists, registered more than 22 cases to stop terror finance and seized properties worth ₹ 150 crore. As many as 90 properties were also attached and 134 bank accounts have been frozen, he said. "We have enshrined peace, and peace cannot be bought. Whoever wants to have a dialogue has to do so within the ambit of the Constitution," he said. Shah said the Hurriyat Conference has no place in the process of dialogue. He also made it clear that the BJP and the entire Parliament believe that the POK is an integral part of India. "The Muslim brothers are also Indians and the Hindu brothers living in POK are also Indians and the land which has been illegally occupied by Pakistan also belongs to India. It is the goal of every Indian, every Kashmiri to get it back," he said. The home minister said in 2010, there were 2564 incidents of stone-pelting which now is zero. From 2004 to 2014, there were 7217 terror incidents. That has reduced to 2227 from 2014 to 2023, and this is almost a 70 per cent reduction, he said. Shah said the total number of deaths from 2004 to 2014 was 2829 and it has come down to 915 during 2014-23, which is a 68 per cent decrease. The deaths of civilians was 1770 and has decreased to 341, which is an 81 per cent drop. The deaths of security forces decreased from 1060 to 574, which is a 46 per cent decrease, he said. The senior BJP leader said without the support of the people, such a comprehensive change can never take place. "The people who talk about Islam should know that 85 per cent of the deceased were our Muslim brothers and sisters," he said. Shah also asked the youths of J-K to stay away from the conspiracies of Pakistan. "Today Pakistan is shrouded by the scourge of hunger and poverty and even people there see Kashmir as heaven. I want to tell everyone that if anyone can save Kashmir, he is Prime Minister Modi," he said. The home minister said the Modi government is boosting the morale of the security forces by giving jobs to the family members of the martyrs. "Today, not a single martyr's family is left without a job," he said.

Govt to consider revoking AFSPA in Jammu & Kashmir: India's home minister

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