The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-internationalised-the-kashmir-issue-says-imran-khan-in-pok-assembly-242960">Kashmir Valley</a> will have "some restrictions" tomorrow on the occasion of Independence Day, Principal Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir administration Rohit Kansal said on Wednesday.

"The o<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/removal-of-article-370-heralds-an-era-of-progress-for-jammu-and-kashmir-242889">verall security situation continues to be calm</a>. There has been no major report of any untoward incident. There will be some restrictions tomorrow," Rohit Kansal told reporters.

On reported detention of former IAS officer and J and K Peoples' Movement leader Shah Faesal, Kansal said, "Any detention or arrest is based on local assessment of law and order requirement and taken accordingly. We will not comment on individuals."

J-K Additional Director General of Police SJM Gillani said, "There have been detentions under the Public Safety Act. There have been preventive arrests as well. Some people have also been shifted out of the state."

Gillani said, "As of now there are only 2 persons who are in hospital with some injuries, rest were discharged after first-aid."

Watch:&nbsp;Kashmir gears up for Independence day 2019

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kashmir-gears-up-for-independence-day-2019-242973/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Kansal said the government is ready with the arrangements for the main Independence Day function which will be held tomorrow at S K Stadium where Governor Satya Pal Malik will hoist the national flag.

In Jammu, the celebrations would be led by the Advisor to the Governor, he said, adding celebrations would be held at divisional, district and sub-district levels as well.

The Kashmir Valley will have "some restrictions" tomorrow on the occasion of Independence Day, Principal Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir administration Rohit Kansal said on Wednesday.

The Kashmir Valley will have "some restrictions" tomorrow on the occasion of Independence Day, Principal Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir administration Rohit Kansal said on Wednesday. "The overall security situation continues to be calm. There has been no major report of any untoward incident. There will be some restrictions tomorrow," Rohit Kansal told reporters. On reported detention of former IAS officer and J and K Peoples' Movement leader Shah Faesal, Kansal said, "Any detention or arrest is based on local assessment of law and order requirement and taken accordingly. We will not comment on individuals." J-K Additional Director General of Police SJM Gillani said, "There have been detentions under the Public Safety Act. There have been preventive arrests as well. Some people have also been shifted out of the state." Gillani said, "As of now there are only 2 persons who are in hospital with some injuries, rest were discharged after first-aid." Watch: Kashmir gears up for Independence day 2019 Kansal said the government is ready with the arrangements for the main Independence Day function which will be held tomorrow at S K Stadium where Governor Satya Pal Malik will hoist the national flag. In Jammu, the celebrations would be led by the Advisor to the Governor, he said, adding celebrations would be held at divisional, district and sub-district levels as well.

Some restrictions in Kashmir Valley on Independence Day: J&K principle secretary

The woman in line to be the governor of Puerto Rico after Ricardo Rosselló steps down next week said on Sunday she does not want the job running the US territory.

Rosselló said last week he will step down on August 2 in the face of mass street protests and public outrage over the release of profane chat messages and embezzlement charges against two former administration officials.

Secretary of Justice Wanda Vázquez is next in line to succeed Rosselló as governor because Puerto Rico currently has no secretary of state, who would have precedence. But on Sunday she said she had no interest in taking the reins.

"I hope the governor identifies and submits a candidate for secretary of state before August 2 and I have told him as much," Vázquez wrote on Twitter.

Protesters who forced Rosselló from office had opposed Vázquez, saying she is too close to the disgraced governor.

Puerto Rico's previous secretary of state, Luis Rivera Marín, resigned in the wake of the chat scandal.

Three people now look to be in the strongest positions to succeed Rosselló: Pedro Pierluisi, a former Puerto Rico representative in the US Congress and now an attorney with Washington law firm O'Neill &amp; Borges; Senate President Thomas Rivera Schatz; and Jenniffer Gonzalez, Puerto Rico's current delegate to the US Congress.

Puerto Ricans want a leader to steer them out of crisis and economic recession after back-to-back 2017 hurricanes that killed around 3,000 people just months after the US territory filed for bankruptcy. 
&nbsp;

The woman in line to be the governor of Puerto Rico after Ricardo Rosselló steps down next week said on Sunday she does not want the job running the US territory.

The woman in line to be the governor of Puerto Rico after Ricardo Rosselló steps down next week said on Sunday she does not want the job running the US territory. Rosselló said last week he will step down on August 2 in the face of mass street protests and public outrage over the release of profane chat messages and embezzlement charges against two former administration officials. Secretary of Justice Wanda Vázquez is next in line to succeed Rosselló as governor because Puerto Rico currently has no secretary of state, who would have precedence. But on Sunday she said she had no interest in taking the reins. "I hope the governor identifies and submits a candidate for secretary of state before August 2 and I have told him as much," Vázquez wrote on Twitter. Protesters who forced Rosselló from office had opposed Vázquez, saying she is too close to the disgraced governor. Puerto Rico's previous secretary of state, Luis Rivera Marín, resigned in the wake of the chat scandal. Three people now look to be in the strongest positions to succeed Rosselló: Pedro Pierluisi, a former Puerto Rico representative in the US Congress and now an attorney with Washington law firm O'Neill & Borges; Senate President Thomas Rivera Schatz; and Jenniffer Gonzalez, Puerto Rico's current delegate to the US Congress. Puerto Ricans want a leader to steer them out of crisis and economic recession after back-to-back 2017 hurricanes that killed around 3,000 people just months after the US territory filed for bankruptcy.

Puerto Rico justice secretary says she doesn't want to be governor

&nbsp;

Anandiben Patel on Monday took oath as the Governor of Uttar Pradesh here.

Former Governor Ram Naik also attended the oath-taking ceremony.

On July 20, President Ram Nath Kovind had appointed Patel, who was serving as the Governor of Madhya Pradesh, as the replacement for outgoing Governor Ram Naik.

Bihar Governor Lalji Tandon was transferred to Madhya Pradesh in place of Patel.

Anandiben Patel also served as Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2014-16 before resigning from the post.

&nbsp;

Anandiben Patel on Monday took oath as the Governor of Uttar Pradesh here. Former Governor Ram Naik also attended the oath-taking ceremony. On July 20, President Ram Nath Kovind had appointed Patel, who was serving as the Governor of Madhya Pradesh, as the replacement for outgoing Governor Ram Naik.

Anandiben Patel on Monday took oath as the Governor of Uttar Pradesh here. Former Governor Ram Naik also attended the oath-taking ceremony. On July 20, President Ram Nath Kovind had appointed Patel, who was serving as the Governor of Madhya Pradesh, as the replacement for outgoing Governor Ram Naik. Bihar Governor Lalji Tandon was transferred to Madhya Pradesh in place of Patel. Anandiben Patel also served as Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2014-16 before resigning from the post.

Anandiben Patel takes oath as Uttar Pradesh Governor

Puerto Ricans celebrated in the streets on Thursday (July 25) after governor, Ricardo Rossello, resigned following weeks of mass protests.

Puerto Ricans celebrate resignation of governor

A day after he said that terrorists should gun down those who have looted the country and their state, Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Monday said that as a Governor he should have avoided the comment while adding that whatever he said was in a "fit of anger".

"Whatever I said was in a fit of anger and frustration due to rampant corruption. As a Governor, I should not have said this. But if I was not holding this post, I would have said the same and would have been ready to bear the consequences," Malik told ANI.

"Many of the political leaders and top bureaucrats are steeped in corruption here, they are criminals. As a Governor I should have avoided making such a comment, but as an individual, this is what I feel," he added.

Addressing a gathering at the inaugural event of Kargil Ladakh Tourism Festival 2019 at Khree Sultan Choo Sports Stadium Kargil on Sunday, Malik opined that the biggest disease in Jammu and Kashmir is corruption.

"The biggest disease in Kashmir is corruption...These youth with guns, they are killing PSOs and SPOs for no reason, why are you killing them? Kill those who have looted your country and all the wealth from Kashmir, have you killed anyone out of them? Nothing will be achieved by this," Governor had said.

Hitting out at former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah, the Governor called him a "political juvenile" after Abdullah criticised him over his statement on Sunday.

"He is a political juvenile who tweets on everything. See the reaction to his tweets and you will find out, go on the streets and ask about him," Malik said.&nbsp;

Earlier, the National Conference leader had taken to Twitter and said that if any politician or bureaucrat is killed in the state then it must be considered as the execution of Governor's order.

"Save this tweet - after today any mainstream politician or serving/retired bureaucrat killed in Jammu and Kashmir has been murdered on the express orders of the Governor of J and K Satyapal Malik," tweeted Abdullah.

A day after he said that terrorists should gun down those who have looted the country and their state, Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Monday said that as a Governor he should have avoided the comment while adding that whatever he said was in a "fit of anger".

A day after he said that terrorists should gun down those who have looted the country and their state, Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Monday said that as a Governor he should have avoided the comment while adding that whatever he said was in a "fit of anger". "Whatever I said was in a fit of anger and frustration due to rampant corruption. As a Governor, I should not have said this. But if I was not holding this post, I would have said the same and would have been ready to bear the consequences," Malik told ANI. "Many of the political leaders and top bureaucrats are steeped in corruption here, they are criminals. As a Governor I should have avoided making such a comment, but as an individual, this is what I feel," he added. Addressing a gathering at the inaugural event of Kargil Ladakh Tourism Festival 2019 at Khree Sultan Choo Sports Stadium Kargil on Sunday, Malik opined that the biggest disease in Jammu and Kashmir is corruption. "The biggest disease in Kashmir is corruption...These youth with guns, they are killing PSOs and SPOs for no reason, why are you killing them? Kill those who have looted your country and all the wealth from Kashmir, have you killed anyone out of them? Nothing will be achieved by this," Governor had said. Hitting out at former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah, the Governor called him a "political juvenile" after Abdullah criticised him over his statement on Sunday. "He is a political juvenile who tweets on everything. See the reaction to his tweets and you will find out, go on the streets and ask about him," Malik said. Earlier, the National Conference leader had taken to Twitter and said that if any politician or bureaucrat is killed in the state then it must be considered as the execution of Governor's order. "Save this tweet - after today any mainstream politician or serving/retired bureaucrat killed in Jammu and Kashmir has been murdered on the express orders of the Governor of J and K Satyapal Malik," tweeted Abdullah.

Whatever I said was in 'fit of anger', as Governor I should have avoided it: Satya Pal Malik

Thousands of Puerto Ricans, led by protesters on horseback and with some banging drums and singing, marched on the governor's residence on Friday demanding that he resign over hundreds of vulgar and offensive leaked chat messages.

Waving flags and banging drums, Puerto Ricans demand that governor quit

Protesters continued to push for the resignation of Governor Ricardo Rossello in San Juan, Puerto Rico on Monday (July 15).

"The people have spoken" - protests continue against Puerto Rico governor

BJP workers clash with state police in Kolkata. Police used bastons, teargas and water cannons to control that. Governor calls for all party meeting tomorrow. BJP's Protest against killing of workers.

India Watch: Clashes At BJP's Kolkata Rally

West Bengal Governor Keshari Nath Tripathi will be meeting PM Modi in Delhi today. Watch this video to know.

West Bengal Governor to meet PM Modi

The ruling BJP has asked all its MLAs not to leave Goa against the backdrop of Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-cm-manohar-parrikars-health-has-deteriorated-but-he-is-stable-vijai-sardesai-203759">deteriorating health</a> and Congress staking a claim to form a government in the state.&nbsp;

Goa BJP general secretary Sadanand Tanawade told ANI that all the party's legislators were asked not to leave Goa at a meeting held on Saturday.&nbsp;

After Congress dispatched a letter to Governor Mridula Sinha, BJP called for an "emergency meeting" at the party's headquarters in Panaji. A meeting of BJP MLAs is also scheduled for today at the party`s Panaji office, state Power Minister Nilesh Cabral on Saturday. A number of news reports said Sunday that the BJP is looking for alternatives to Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar.&nbsp;

The Goa Congress on Saturday urged the governor to dismiss the BJP-led coalition government and invite the party to form a government in the state. In a letter to the governor, Leader of the Opposition in the Goa Assembly, Chandrakant Kavlekar, claimed that the Congress party has the majority to form the government and that "the numbers of the BJP may further dwindle" in the Assembly.&nbsp;

"Consequent upon the sad demise of BJP MLA Francis D`Souza, the BJP government led by Manohar Parrikar, which has long lost the trust of people, has also lost the strength of the House," Chandrakant said in his letter to the Governor.&nbsp;

Former Deputy Chief Minister Francis D`Souza died last month after a prolonged battle with cancer.&nbsp;

Stating that Parrikar is "very ill", Deputy Speaker and Calangute BJP MLA Michael Lobo on Saturday said, "There are no chances of him getting well.&nbsp;

"Parrikar, who is suffering from a pancreatic ailment, has been in and out of hospitals in Goa, Mumbai, Delhi and New York since February last year.&nbsp;

Congress had staked to form the government in October last year too but then its claims were not accepted by the Governor.&nbsp;

The present strength of the Goa Assembly stands at 37 instead of 40.&nbsp;

Congress is currently the single-largest party in the state with 14 MLAs.BJP has 13 legislators, including Parrikar, and its government is supported by three MLAs each of the Goa Forward Party and Maharashtra Gomantak Party, and three Independents.&nbsp;

Two Congress MLAs have resigned after defecting to BJP.&nbsp;

The ruling BJP has asked all its MLAs not to leave Goa against the backdrop of Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar's deteriorating health and Congress staking a claim to form a government in the state.

The ruling BJP has asked all its MLAs not to leave Goa against the backdrop of Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar's deteriorating health and Congress staking a claim to form a government in the state. Goa BJP general secretary Sadanand Tanawade told ANI that all the party's legislators were asked not to leave Goa at a meeting held on Saturday. After Congress dispatched a letter to Governor Mridula Sinha, BJP called for an "emergency meeting" at the party's headquarters in Panaji. A meeting of BJP MLAs is also scheduled for today at the party`s Panaji office, state Power Minister Nilesh Cabral on Saturday. A number of news reports said Sunday that the BJP is looking for alternatives to Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar. The Goa Congress on Saturday urged the governor to dismiss the BJP-led coalition government and invite the party to form a government in the state. In a letter to the governor, Leader of the Opposition in the Goa Assembly, Chandrakant Kavlekar, claimed that the Congress party has the majority to form the government and that "the numbers of the BJP may further dwindle" in the Assembly. "Consequent upon the sad demise of BJP MLA Francis D`Souza, the BJP government led by Manohar Parrikar, which has long lost the trust of people, has also lost the strength of the House," Chandrakant said in his letter to the Governor. Former Deputy Chief Minister Francis D`Souza died last month after a prolonged battle with cancer. Stating that Parrikar is "very ill", Deputy Speaker and Calangute BJP MLA Michael Lobo on Saturday said, "There are no chances of him getting well. "Parrikar, who is suffering from a pancreatic ailment, has been in and out of hospitals in Goa, Mumbai, Delhi and New York since February last year. Congress had staked to form the government in October last year too but then its claims were not accepted by the Governor. The present strength of the Goa Assembly stands at 37 instead of 40. Congress is currently the single-largest party in the state with 14 MLAs.BJP has 13 legislators, including Parrikar, and its government is supported by three MLAs each of the Goa Forward Party and Maharashtra Gomantak Party, and three Independents. Two Congress MLAs have resigned after defecting to BJP.

After Congress stakes claim to form government, BJP MLAs asked not to leave Goa

Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy, who has been heading a dharna here since February 13 to protest the "negative attitude of Lt Governor Kiran Bedi" in approving 39 proposals of the government, on Monday denied her allegation that the agitation was "politically motivated".

The protest outside the Raj Nivas entered the sixth day on Monday.

Narayanasamy has accused Bedi of not approving his government's 39 proposals for welfare schemes, including one for a free-rice scheme, and on administrative matters.

Bedi had, in her letter to the chief minister on Sunday, pointed out that she had cut short her public engagements in Delhi and returned to the Union territory to hold a meeting with him to avoid inconvenience to the people of Puducherry "due to your politically motivated agitations".

Denying Bedi's charge, the chief minister said the dharna did not have a political motive and the aim was to ensure that the people's demands were met.

Bedi had also stated in a WhatsApp message that the chief minister had laid down conditions for accepting her invitation to a meeting to settle the issues contained in his February 7 letter.

These conditions put forward by the chief minister related to his choice of venue for the meeting, how to conduct the meeting and who all should or should not be present during the deliberations.

Bedi had said, "his reasons for continuing the agitation are obviously for reasons other than what he is claiming".

The Lt Governor had also said at the end of her message that the "matter is over", rejecting the conditions.

She informed Narayanasamy through her letter that "it appears to me that you want to stretch the matter unduly as it suits you politically".

The meeting envisaged on Sunday did not take place following the Lt Governor's rejection of the conditions the chief minister had put in his missive to her.

"As the chief minister and constitutional authority, I have the prerogative to inform you where to conduct the meeting and who all should be present and who should not be," Narayanasamy had pointed out in his missive to the former IPS officer.

He had minced no words and said, "I am able to understand that you are sitting with clear prejudices and decisions on all the issues raised before discussion."

The Lt Governor and the government headed by Narayanasamy have been at loggerheads over various issues ever since Bedi assumed office in May, 2016.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy, who has been heading a dharna here since February 13 to protest the "negative attitude of Lt Governor Kiran Bedi" in approving 39 proposals of the government, on Monday denied her allegation that the agitation was "politically motivated".

Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy, who has been heading a dharna here since February 13 to protest the "negative attitude of Lt Governor Kiran Bedi" in approving 39 proposals of the government, on Monday denied her allegation that the agitation was "politically motivated". The protest outside the Raj Nivas entered the sixth day on Monday. Narayanasamy has accused Bedi of not approving his government's 39 proposals for welfare schemes, including one for a free-rice scheme, and on administrative matters. Bedi had, in her letter to the chief minister on Sunday, pointed out that she had cut short her public engagements in Delhi and returned to the Union territory to hold a meeting with him to avoid inconvenience to the people of Puducherry "due to your politically motivated agitations". Denying Bedi's charge, the chief minister said the dharna did not have a political motive and the aim was to ensure that the people's demands were met. Bedi had also stated in a WhatsApp message that the chief minister had laid down conditions for accepting her invitation to a meeting to settle the issues contained in his February 7 letter. These conditions put forward by the chief minister related to his choice of venue for the meeting, how to conduct the meeting and who all should or should not be present during the deliberations. Bedi had said, "his reasons for continuing the agitation are obviously for reasons other than what he is claiming". The Lt Governor had also said at the end of her message that the "matter is over", rejecting the conditions. She informed Narayanasamy through her letter that "it appears to me that you want to stretch the matter unduly as it suits you politically". The meeting envisaged on Sunday did not take place following the Lt Governor's rejection of the conditions the chief minister had put in his missive to her. "As the chief minister and constitutional authority, I have the prerogative to inform you where to conduct the meeting and who all should be present and who should not be," Narayanasamy had pointed out in his missive to the former IPS officer. He had minced no words and said, "I am able to understand that you are sitting with clear prejudices and decisions on all the issues raised before discussion." The Lt Governor and the government headed by Narayanasamy have been at loggerheads over various issues ever since Bedi assumed office in May, 2016.

Puducherry CM V Narayanasamy continues 'dharna' outside LG Kiran Bedi's home for 6th day

The governor of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/no-signed-agreement-with-us-on-asylum-seekers-mexico-185795">Mexican state </a>of Puebla and her husband, a senator and former governor, were killed on Monday in a helicopter crash, the country's president said.

"My deepest condolences to the relatives of Senator Rafael Moreno Valle and his wife, governor of Puebla Martha Erika Alonso," <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-president-lopez-obrador-wants-to-eliminate-presidential-immunity-181582">President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador </a>wrote on Twitter.

"I assume the commitment to investigate the causes" and &nbsp;"tell the truth about what happened," Lopez Obrador wrote.

Local media reported that the pilot and another person were also killed in the accident.

The aircraft crashed in the Santa Maria Coronango area of Puebla, and the cause of the crash is still unknown.

Alonso was sworn in as governor on December 14 after an electoral tribunal certified her victory in July polls.

She was the first woman to occupy the position in Puebla, where her husband was governor from 2011 to 2017.

According to the local constitution, the state legislature will have to appoint an interim governor and to call an extraordinary vote that must be held in three to five months.

The governor of the Mexican state of Puebla and her husband, a senator and former governor, were killed on Monday in a helicopter crash, the country's president said.

The governor of the Mexican state of Puebla and her husband, a senator and former governor, were killed on Monday in a helicopter crash, the country's president said. "My deepest condolences to the relatives of Senator Rafael Moreno Valle and his wife, governor of Puebla Martha Erika Alonso," President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador wrote on Twitter. "I assume the commitment to investigate the causes" and "tell the truth about what happened," Lopez Obrador wrote. Local media reported that the pilot and another person were also killed in the accident. The aircraft crashed in the Santa Maria Coronango area of Puebla, and the cause of the crash is still unknown. Alonso was sworn in as governor on December 14 after an electoral tribunal certified her victory in July polls. She was the first woman to occupy the position in Puebla, where her husband was governor from 2011 to 2017. According to the local constitution, the state legislature will have to appoint an interim governor and to call an extraordinary vote that must be held in three to five months.

Helicopter crash kills Mexican governor, senator husband

At least two people died in the partial collapse of an Amazon.com Inc distribution warehouse in Baltimore caused by severe weather, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan and the company said on Saturday.

"My condolences go out to the families and friends of the victims," Hogan said in a post on Twitter.

The incident occurred late Friday as severe winds and heavy rain swept into Maryland's largest city, according to Hogan and a statement by an Amazon executive.

"Last night, severe weather impacted one of our Baltimore facilities resulting in two fatalities," Dave Clark, Amazon's senior vice president of operations, said on Twitter.

At least two people died in the partial collapse of an Amazon.com Inc distribution warehouse in Baltimore caused by severe weather, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan and the company said on Saturday.

At least two people died in the partial collapse of an Amazon.com Inc distribution warehouse in Baltimore caused by severe weather, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan and the company said on Saturday. "My condolences go out to the families and friends of the victims," Hogan said in a post on Twitter. The incident occurred late Friday as severe winds and heavy rain swept into Maryland's largest city, according to Hogan and a statement by an Amazon executive. "Last night, severe weather impacted one of our Baltimore facilities resulting in two fatalities," Dave Clark, Amazon's senior vice president of operations, said on Twitter.

Two dead in Amazon warehouse's partial collapse in Baltimore: Governor

Janata Dal (Secular) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Saturday said the Congress-JDS combine was not in a hurry and was awaiting an invitation from the Karnataka governor for government formation in the state.

“We are not in a hurry. We are waiting for an invitation from the governor,” he told reporters, soon after the BJP’s B S Yeddyurappa announced his decision to quit as Karnataka chief minister without facing the vote of confidence in the Assembly.

Asked about the future course of action, Kumaraswamy said the leaders of the Congress and the JD(S) would sit together and take a decision on it.

The Congress has already categorically stated that it will be a Kumaraswamy-headed government in the southern state.

The May 12 Karnataka Assembly polls threw up a hung Assembly, with the BJP emerging as the single-largest party with a tally of 104 seats, but falling short of a majority.

The Congress-JD(S) combine has staked the claim with the governor to form the government, saying they have 117 MLAs in the 224-member House, with an effective strength of 221.

Polling for two seats was not held due to various reasons, while Kumaraswamy won from two places.

The Supreme Court had yesterday ordered a floor test in the Karnataka Assembly at 4 PM today, drastically slashing the 15-day window given by Governor Vajubhai Vala to Yeddyurappa to prove his majority.

Following 72 hours of high drama, which involved a midnight session at the Supreme Court, leaked audio tapes, and hidden lawmakers, the BJP failed to secure seven MLAs that it needed to pass the floor test in the House.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Left parties and the Trinamool Congreess&nbsp;termed the resignation of Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa without facing a trust vote a "victory of secular democratic forces".

(With inputs from PTI)

Janata Dal (Secular) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Saturday said the Congress-JDS combine was not in a hurry and was awaiting an invitation from the Karnataka governor for government

Janata Dal (Secular) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Saturday said the Congress-JDS combine was not in a hurry and was awaiting an invitation from the Karnataka governor for government formation in the state. “We are not in a hurry. We are waiting for an invitation from the governor,” he told reporters, soon after the BJP’s B S Yeddyurappa announced his decision to quit as Karnataka chief minister without facing the vote of confidence in the Assembly. Asked about the future course of action, Kumaraswamy said the leaders of the Congress and the JD(S) would sit together and take a decision on it. The Congress has already categorically stated that it will be a Kumaraswamy-headed government in the southern state. The May 12 Karnataka Assembly polls threw up a hung Assembly, with the BJP emerging as the single-largest party with a tally of 104 seats, but falling short of a majority. The Congress-JD(S) combine has staked the claim with the governor to form the government, saying they have 117 MLAs in the 224-member House, with an effective strength of 221. Polling for two seats was not held due to various reasons, while Kumaraswamy won from two places. The Supreme Court had yesterday ordered a floor test in the Karnataka Assembly at 4 PM today, drastically slashing the 15-day window given by Governor Vajubhai Vala to Yeddyurappa to prove his majority. Following 72 hours of high drama, which involved a midnight session at the Supreme Court, leaked audio tapes, and hidden lawmakers, the BJP failed to secure seven MLAs that it needed to pass the floor test in the House. Meanwhile, Left parties and the Trinamool Congreess termed the resignation of Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa without facing a trust vote a "victory of secular democratic forces". (With inputs from PTI)

We are awaiting governor’s invite, says JD(S) leader Kumaraswamy

The BJP today alleged that the Congress has forged the signatures of many of its legislators while submitting the party's list of MLAs to the Governor claiming it had the numbers to form the government.

Addressing reporters here, Union Human Resources Minister Prakash Javadekar said one was at a loss to understand how Congress could collect the signatures of all the MLAs even before they arrived in Bengaluru and attended the Congress Legislature Party meeting.

He said forging signatures and other documents were not something new to the Congress.

When the polls in Manipur threw up a hung Assembly, Congress submitted a forged letter of support of the Manipur People's Party. However, it was found that the grand old party had forged it, he said.

In Karnataka also, the Congress had resorted to their age-old practice, Javadekar said, adding the party has become synonymous with the word forgery.

Defending Governor Vajubhai Vala's action in inviting BJP to form the government, Javadekar said he had only followed the rulebook as there was no pre-poll alliance in Karnataka and Congress and JDS were bitter foes before the poll, where the parties' leaders called each other names.

"During his election campaign in Karnataka, Congress President Rahul Gandhi had termed JDS as the 'B' team of BJP. He had said that JD(S) means nothing but Janata Dal Sangh Parivar. Now they are trying to cobble together an alliance, which is nothing but a sheer opportunistic move," he said.

TheGovernor did the right thing by inviting the single largest party tt&nbspform the government and prove the majority on the floor of theHouse, he added.

Javadekar said it was sad that Congress has held its MLAs captive in 'isolated resorts', severing contacts with their families and not even being allowed to watch newschannels.

Referring to Congress President Rahul Gandhi's remark at Raipur today that the judiciary had been suppressed, Javadekar reminded him of the dark days ofthe Emergency in 1975.

"The grand old party had not only overturned the judicial system but also suppressed the freedom of the press. Instead of seeking pardon for their sins, the Congress leader is tryingto create a false perception," he said.

Against the backdrop of the developments in Karnataka, Gandhi asserted at an event in Raipur that the Constitution is under 'severe attack', even as he said the judiciary and the press were under "fear" that usually happens in Pakistan under "dictatorship" and some African countries ruled by Generals.

He alleged there was an atmosphere of fear in the country with even institutions such as the judiciary and the press being suppressed and threatened.

When the polls in Manipur threw up a hung Assembly, Congress submitted a forged letter of support of the Manipur People's Party. However, it was found that the grand old party had forged it, he said.

The BJP today alleged that the Congress has forged the signatures of many of its legislators while submitting the party's list of MLAs to the Governor claiming it had the numbers to form the government. Addressing reporters here, Union Human Resources Minister Prakash Javadekar said one was at a loss to understand how Congress could collect the signatures of all the MLAs even before they arrived in Bengaluru and attended the Congress Legislature Party meeting. He said forging signatures and other documents were not something new to the Congress. When the polls in Manipur threw up a hung Assembly, Congress submitted a forged letter of support of the Manipur People's Party. However, it was found that the grand old party had forged it, he said. In Karnataka also, the Congress had resorted to their age-old practice, Javadekar said, adding the party has become synonymous with the word forgery. Defending Governor Vajubhai Vala's action in inviting BJP to form the government, Javadekar said he had only followed the rulebook as there was no pre-poll alliance in Karnataka and Congress and JDS were bitter foes before the poll, where the parties' leaders called each other names. "During his election campaign in Karnataka, Congress President Rahul Gandhi had termed JDS as the 'B' team of BJP. He had said that JD(S) means nothing but Janata Dal Sangh Parivar. Now they are trying to cobble together an alliance, which is nothing but a sheer opportunistic move," he said. TheGovernor did the right thing by inviting the single largest party tt&nbspform the government and prove the majority on the floor of theHouse, he added. Javadekar said it was sad that Congress has held its MLAs captive in 'isolated resorts', severing contacts with their families and not even being allowed to watch newschannels. Referring to Congress President Rahul Gandhi's remark at Raipur today that the judiciary had been suppressed, Javadekar reminded him of the dark days ofthe Emergency in 1975. "The grand old party had not only overturned the judicial system but also suppressed the freedom of the press. Instead of seeking pardon for their sins, the Congress leader is tryingto create a false perception," he said. Against the backdrop of the developments in Karnataka, Gandhi asserted at an event in Raipur that the Constitution is under 'severe attack', even as he said the judiciary and the press were under "fear" that usually happens in Pakistan under "dictatorship" and some African countries ruled by Generals. He alleged there was an atmosphere of fear in the country with even institutions such as the judiciary and the press being suppressed and threatened.

'Signatures of several Congress MLAs in letter to Governor forged'

As the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Congress and Janata Dal(Secular) vie for power in Karnataka, the focus has turned to Governor Vajubhai Vala. Vala, an old BJP hand who is considered close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has put all appointments on hold till all results are out.

Vala was appointed as the Governor of Karnataka in August 2014, a few months after Narendra Modi stormed to power in New Delhi. He was serving as Gujarat Assembly speaker since January 2013 before he was sent to the southern state.

Vala, who represented the Rajkot West constituency in the Gujarat assembly for a record seven times, had been the state BJP president, Assembly Speaker and a Cabinet minister holding crucial portfolios.&nbsp;

Vala, who has earned a reputation of a crisis manager in the Gujarat unit of the BJP, was made state party chief after the rebellion by Shankarsinh Vaghela in the mid-90s that resulted in the fall of Keshubhai Patel government.

Vala, the son of a Rajkot businessman, started his career as a Sangh pracharak while still in school. He joined the Jana Sangh at 26 and eventually won a seat in the Rajkot Municipal Corporation in 1975, and in 1983, he became Rajkot mayor.

Vala, who has earned a reputation of a crisis manager in the Gujarat unit of the BJP, was made state party chief after the rebellion by Shankarsinh Vaghela in the mid-90s that resulted in the fall of Keshubhai Patel government.

As the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Congress and Janata Dal(Secular) vie for power in Karnataka, the focus has turned to Governor Vajubhai Vala. Vala, an old BJP hand who is considered close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has put all appointments on hold till all results are out. Vala was appointed as the Governor of Karnataka in August 2014, a few months after Narendra Modi stormed to power in New Delhi. He was serving as Gujarat Assembly speaker since January 2013 before he was sent to the southern state. Vala, who represented the Rajkot West constituency in the Gujarat assembly for a record seven times, had been the state BJP president, Assembly Speaker and a Cabinet minister holding crucial portfolios. Vala, who has earned a reputation of a crisis manager in the Gujarat unit of the BJP, was made state party chief after the rebellion by Shankarsinh Vaghela in the mid-90s that resulted in the fall of Keshubhai Patel government. Vala, the son of a Rajkot businessman, started his career as a Sangh pracharak while still in school. He joined the Jana Sangh at 26 and eventually won a seat in the Rajkot Municipal Corporation in 1975, and in 1983, he became Rajkot mayor.

Governor Vala: Karnataka's future rests on a man who once gave up his seat for Narendra Modi

According to reports, former RBI Governor, Raghuram Rajan, has been listed as one of the possible contenders for a top job at the Bank of England (BoE).

According to UK-based Financial Times, UK Chancellor and Exchequer Philip Hammond has started the process of selecting the next Governor of the Bank of England. If selected, Rajan will replace the current Governor, Mark Carney, next year.

According to the report, Mr Hammond's has shown an interest in looking abroad for Carney's successor as the UK prepares for Brexit.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VQ_YYATuvbg" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Rajan currently teaches Finance at the University of Chicago, Booth School of Business. He served as the RBI Governor for three years, September 2013 to 2016.

Rajan was also the youngest Chief Economist and Director of Research at the International Monetary Fund.

Indian-origin Baroness Shriti Vadera could also be a candidate for the post.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Indian-origin Baroness Shriti Vadera could also be a candidate for the post

According to reports, former RBI Governor, Raghuram Rajan, has been listed as one of the possible contenders for a top job at the Bank of England (BoE). According to UK-based Financial Times, UK Chancellor and Exchequer Philip Hammond has started the process of selecting the next Governor of the Bank of England. If selected, Rajan will replace the current Governor, Mark Carney, next year. According to the report, Mr Hammond's has shown an interest in looking abroad for Carney's successor as the UK prepares for Brexit. Rajan currently teaches Finance at the University of Chicago, Booth School of Business. He served as the RBI Governor for three years, September 2013 to 2016. Rajan was also the youngest Chief Economist and Director of Research at the International Monetary Fund. Indian-origin Baroness Shriti Vadera could also be a candidate for the post.

Raghuram Rajan could be next Bank of England Governor

Under fire for patting the cheek of a woman journalist, Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit on Wednesday tendered an apology to her.

The 78-year-old governor had patted Lakshmi Subramanian on the cheek when he was about to leave the venue of a press conference, triggering an outrage by the journalist fraternity and opposition parties, including the DMK.

In a letter to Subramanian, the governor said he patted her out of "affection" and "appreciation" of her performance as a journalist.

"I gave a pat on your cheek considering you to be like my granddaughter. It was done with affection and to express my appreciation for your performance as a journalist," he said.

Referring to the mail the journalist, who works for an English weekly, had sent to him, Purohit said,"I do understand from your mail that you are feeling hurt about the incident."

Purohit said he, therefore, wished to "express my regret and my apologies to assuage your sentiments that have been hurt."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Your Excellency, I have with me your letter expressing regret at what happened at the press conference in Chennai the previous day. I accept your apology, even though I am not convinced about your contention that you did it to appreciate a question I asked <a href="https://twitter.com/TheWeekLive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheWeekLive</a> <a href="https://t.co/JhjPOQy8UW">pic.twitter.com/JhjPOQy8UW</a>
— Lakshmi Subramanian (@lakhinathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/lakhinathan/status/986516157480894464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The journalist, Lakshmi, tweeted that she accepted the Governor's apology, but said that she was not convinced of his reasoning.

Under fire for patting the cheek of a woman journalist, Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit on Wednesday tendered an apology to her. The 78-year-old governor had patted Lakshmi Subramanian on the cheek when he was about to leave the venue of a press conference, triggering an outrage by the journalist fraternity and opposition parties, including the DMK. In a letter to Subramanian, the governor said he patted her out of "affection" and "appreciation" of her performance as a journalist. "I gave a pat on your cheek considering you to be like my granddaughter. It was done with affection and to express my appreciation for your performance as a journalist," he said. Referring to the mail the journalist, who works for an English weekly, had sent to him, Purohit said,"I do understand from your mail that you are feeling hurt about the incident." Purohit said he, therefore, wished to "express my regret and my apologies to assuage your sentiments that have been hurt." Your Excellency, I have with me your letter expressing regret at what happened at the press conference in Chennai the previous day. I accept your apology, even though I am not convinced about your contention that you did it to appreciate a question I asked @TheWeekLive pic.twitter.com/JhjPOQy8UW — Lakshmi Subramanian (@lakhinathan) April 18, 2018 ×

Tamil Nadu governor apologises to journalist he patted on cheek, says she's like 'granddaughter'

Under fire for patting the cheek of a woman journalist, Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit on Wednesday tendered an apology to her.

The 78-year-old governor had patted Lakshmi Subramanian on the cheek when he was about to leave the venue of a press conference, triggering an outrage by the journalist fraternity and opposition parties, including the DMK.

In a letter to Subramanian, the governor said he patted her out of "affection" and "appreciation" of her performance as a journalist.

"I gave a pat on your cheek considering you to be like my granddaughter. It was done with affection and to express my appreciation for your performance as a journalist," he said.

Referring to the mail the journalist, who works for an English weekly, had sent to him, Purohit said,"I do understand from your mail that you are feeling hurt about the incident."

Purohit said he, therefore, wished to "express my regret and my apologies to assuage your sentiments that have been hurt."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Your Excellency, I have with me your letter expressing regret at what happened at the press conference in Chennai the previous day. I accept your apology, even though I am not convinced about your contention that you did it to appreciate a question I asked <a href="https://twitter.com/TheWeekLive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheWeekLive</a> <a href="https://t.co/JhjPOQy8UW">pic.twitter.com/JhjPOQy8UW</a>
— Lakshmi Subramanian (@lakhinathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/lakhinathan/status/986516157480894464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp

Tamil Nadu governor apologises to journalist for patting her on cheek, claims she's like 'granddaughter'

The governor of Russia`s Kemerovo region resigned on Sunday over a mall fire that killed more than 60 after a litany of violations in safety procedures left shoppers and children trapped inside the building.

Aman Tuleyev, the longtime governor of Russia's Kemerovo region where a huge mall fire killed at least 64 people including 41 children last weekend, resigned today.

"I submitted my resignation letter to the Russian president," he said in a three-minute video address released by his office.

Tuleyev, who had been at the helm of the key coal-mining region since 1997, said he could no longer remain at his post with "such a heavy burden" and added that his resignation was "the only right choice".

"With such a heavy burden, it`s impossible to work as the governor," said Tuleyev, who governed the region for more than two decades. "It`s morally impossible."

On Sunday he appointed Sergei Tsivilyov, one of the region`s deputy governors, to replace Tuleyev as acting governor. 
Tsivilyov, 56, has served as the director of Kolmar, a coal mining and processing company, for the past four years.

"I want to tell you, residents of Kemerovo and all the region, that I will do everything for those guilty in this terrible tragedy to receive the harshest punishment," Tsivilyov said in a video address posted on the regional administration`s website.&nbsp;

Last Sunday`s fire, one of the deadliest in Russia since the break-up of the Soviet Union, swept through a cinema complex and children`s play area on the upper floors of the Winter Cherry shopping centre in the regional capital.

At least 64 people -- including 41 children -- died in the huge fire in the industrial city of Kemerovo in western Siberia.

Many people who lost relatives have said they died because of the inaction of firefighters and police lacking the necessary equipment and skills.

Tuleyev himself came under heavy criticism for failing to visit the scene of the tragedy in the first few days or meet with angry relatives.

(With inputs from agencies)

Aman Tuleyev, the longtime governor of Russia's Kemerovo region where a huge mall fire killed at least 64 people including 41 children last weekend, resigned today

The governor of Russia`s Kemerovo region resigned on Sunday over a mall fire that killed more than 60 after a litany of violations in safety procedures left shoppers and children trapped inside the building. Aman Tuleyev, the longtime governor of Russia's Kemerovo region where a huge mall fire killed at least 64 people including 41 children last weekend, resigned today. "I submitted my resignation letter to the Russian president," he said in a three-minute video address released by his office. Tuleyev, who had been at the helm of the key coal-mining region since 1997, said he could no longer remain at his post with "such a heavy burden" and added that his resignation was "the only right choice". "With such a heavy burden, it`s impossible to work as the governor," said Tuleyev, who governed the region for more than two decades. "It`s morally impossible." On Sunday he appointed Sergei Tsivilyov, one of the region`s deputy governors, to replace Tuleyev as acting governor. Tsivilyov, 56, has served as the director of Kolmar, a coal mining and processing company, for the past four years. "I want to tell you, residents of Kemerovo and all the region, that I will do everything for those guilty in this terrible tragedy to receive the harshest punishment," Tsivilyov said in a video address posted on the regional administration`s website. Last Sunday`s fire, one of the deadliest in Russia since the break-up of the Soviet Union, swept through a cinema complex and children`s play area on the upper floors of the Winter Cherry shopping centre in the regional capital. At least 64 people -- including 41 children -- died in the huge fire in the industrial city of Kemerovo in western Siberia. Many people who lost relatives have said they died because of the inaction of firefighters and police lacking the necessary equipment and skills. Tuleyev himself came under heavy criticism for failing to visit the scene of the tragedy in the first few days or meet with angry relatives. (With inputs from agencies)

Governor of Russia's Kemerovo resigns following mall fire

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-karti-chidambarams-cbi-custody-extended-by-3-days-34895" target="_blank">INX Media case: CBI custody of Karti Chidambaram extended by 3 days</a>

A special CBI Court on Tuesday extended the agency&#39;s custody of Karti Chidambaram by three more days in the infamous INX Media case, after his previous five-day custody expired today.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/no-need-for-nuclear-weapons-if-we-have-security-guarantee-north-korea-34896" target="_blank">No need for nuclear weapons if we have security guarantee: North Korea</a>

North Korea is open to denuclearisation if the safety of Kim Jong Un&rsquo;s regime is guaranteed, a South Korean official said Tuesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-imposes-10-day-emergency-in-kandy-due-to-communal-tension-34868" target="_blank">Sri Lanka declares </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-imposes-10-day-emergency-in-kandy-due-to-communal-tension-34868" target="_blank">emergency</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-imposes-10-day-emergency-in-kandy-due-to-communal-tension-34868" target="_blank"> to quell Buddhist-Muslim riots, curfew imposed in Kandy</a>

Sri Lanka declared a nationwide state of emergency for 10 days on Tuesday to stop the spread of communal violence, a government spokesman said, after clashes erupted between majority Buddhists and members of the minority Muslim community.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/neiphiu-rio-appointed-nagaland-chief-minister-by-governor-pb-acharya-34900" target="_blank">Neiphiu Rio appointed </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/neiphiu-rio-appointed-nagaland-chief-minister-by-governor-pb-acharya-34900" target="_blank">c</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/neiphiu-rio-appointed-nagaland-chief-minister-by-governor-pb-acharya-34900" target="_blank">hief</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/neiphiu-rio-appointed-nagaland-chief-minister-by-governor-pb-acharya-34900" target="_blank"> minister of Nagaland</a>

Nagaland Governor PB Acharya has appointed Neiphiu Rio as chief minister under clause (1) of Article 164 of the Constitution.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pnb-scam-icicis-chanda-kochhar-axis-banks-shikha-sharma-summoned-by-sfio-34893" target="_blank">PNB scam: ICICI&#39;s Chanda Kochhar, Axis Bank&#39;s Shikha Sharma summoned by Serious Fraud Investigation Office</a>

ICICI Bank chief Chanda Kochhar and Axis Bank chief Shikha Sharma have been summoned by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) in connection with the over Rs 13,000-crore PNB scam.&nbsp;

INX Media case: CBI custody of Karti Chidambaram extended by 3 days A special CBI Court on Tuesday extended the agency's custody of Karti Chidambaram by three more days in the infamous INX Media case, after his previous five-day custody expired today. No need for nuclear weapons if we have security guarantee: North Korea North Korea is open to denuclearisation if the safety of Kim Jong Un’s regime is guaranteed, a South Korean official said Tuesday. Sri Lanka declares emergency to quell Buddhist-Muslim riots, curfew imposed in Kandy Sri Lanka declared a nationwide state of emergency for 10 days on Tuesday to stop the spread of communal violence, a government spokesman said, after clashes erupted between majority Buddhists and members of the minority Muslim community. Neiphiu Rio appointed chief minister of Nagaland Nagaland Governor PB Acharya has appointed Neiphiu Rio as chief minister under clause (1) of Article 164 of the Constitution. PNB scam: ICICI's Chanda Kochhar, Axis Bank's Shikha Sharma summoned by Serious Fraud Investigation Office ICICI Bank chief Chanda Kochhar and Axis Bank chief Shikha Sharma have been summoned by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) in connection with the over Rs 13,000-crore PNB scam.

WION Evening News Brief, March 6, 2018

Nagaland Governor PB Acharya has appointed Neiphiu Rio as chief minister under clause (1) of Article 164 of the Constitution.&nbsp;

The governor also asked Rio to prove his majority on the floor of the house on or before March 16, 2018.

Acharya also accepted the resignation submitted by former chief minister TR Zeliang, who had so far been <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/nagaland-cm-tr-zeliang-refuses-to-quit-34888" target="_blank">refusing to quit</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rio has been asked to prove his majority on the floor of the house on or before March 16

Nagaland Governor PB Acharya has appointed Neiphiu Rio as chief minister under clause (1) of Article 164 of the Constitution. The governor also asked Rio to prove his majority on the floor of the house on or before March 16, 2018. Acharya also accepted the resignation submitted by former chief minister TR Zeliang, who had so far been refusing to quit.

Neiphiu Rio appointed chief minister of Nagaland

Shiv Sena lashed out at the Bharatiya Janata Party on Saturday stating that the party should appoint absconding Nirav Modi as the RBI Governor &quot;to finish off the country&quot;.

Editorials in Shiv Sena&#39;s mouthpieces&nbsp;&#39;Saamana&#39; and &#39;Dopahar Ka Saamana&#39; made stinging remarks on the Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud which came to light earlier this week.&nbsp;

The editorial pieces alleged that Nirav Modi fled the country earlier last month along with his family and was also seen with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Davos Summit.

The Sena clarified the fact that it wasn&#39;t alleging that the Bhartiya Janta Party or its leaders facilitated the &#39;loot&#39;, however, it did mention that Nirav Modi often batted for BJP&#39;s electoral wins.

&quot;We want to know how did he (Nirav) manage to turn up at the Davos event when a complaint against him had already been lodged by the PNB?&quot; the Sena noted in another jibe.

The editorial piece pointed out that Nirav Modi&#39;s bank accounts were not linked to Aadhaar. &quot;While a common man cannot get hospital treatment or even a funeral without an Aadhaar Card, bigshots like Nirav Modi loot crores from a bank without an Aadhaar Card,&quot; noted the editorial.&nbsp;

Nirav Modi, a diamond merchant who owns a global diamond jewellery house, is accused in the Rs 11,400 scam involving the Punjab National Bank.&nbsp;

Nirav Modi, a diamond merchant, is an accused in the Rs 11,400 scam involving the Punjab National Bank

Shiv Sena lashed out at the Bharatiya Janata Party on Saturday stating that the party should appoint absconding Nirav Modi as the RBI Governor "to finish off the country". Editorials in Shiv Sena's mouthpieces 'Saamana' and 'Dopahar Ka Saamana' made stinging remarks on the Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud which came to light earlier this week. The editorial pieces alleged that Nirav Modi fled the country earlier last month along with his family and was also seen with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Davos Summit. The Sena clarified the fact that it wasn't alleging that the Bhartiya Janta Party or its leaders facilitated the 'loot', however, it did mention that Nirav Modi often batted for BJP's electoral wins. "We want to know how did he (Nirav) manage to turn up at the Davos event when a complaint against him had already been lodged by the PNB?" the Sena noted in another jibe. The editorial piece pointed out that Nirav Modi's bank accounts were not linked to Aadhaar. "While a common man cannot get hospital treatment or even a funeral without an Aadhaar Card, bigshots like Nirav Modi loot crores from a bank without an Aadhaar Card," noted the editorial. Nirav Modi, a diamond merchant who owns a global diamond jewellery house, is accused in the Rs 11,400 scam involving the Punjab National Bank.

'Make Nirav Modi RBI Governor,' Shiv Sena taunts BJP

Former Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel was sworn-in as the Governor of Madhya Pradesh earlier today.&nbsp;

The ceremony took place at the Raj Bhavan and was administered by Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh High Court Hemant Gupta.

Some of the notable leaders and politicians in attendance included Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Parliament Speaker Sumitra Mahajan among other ministers from the Madhya Pradesh cabinet.&nbsp;

Patel was Gujarat&#39;s first female chief minister. She has been working with the Bhartiya Janta Party since 1987.

The ceremony took place at the Raj Bhavan and was administered by Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh

Former Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel was sworn-in as the Governor of Madhya Pradesh earlier today. The ceremony took place at the Raj Bhavan and was administered by Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh High Court Hemant Gupta. Some of the notable leaders and politicians in attendance included Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Parliament Speaker Sumitra Mahajan among other ministers from the Madhya Pradesh cabinet. Patel was Gujarat's first female chief minister. She has been working with the Bhartiya Janta Party since 1987.

Former Gujarat CM Anandiben Patel is Madhya Pradesh's new governor

It has been ranked among the happiest places in the world despite widespread unrest, political crisis, and recession. Now one Nigerian state has a minister in charge of contentment.

The commissioner for happiness and couples&#39; fulfilment is the brainchild of Rochas Okorocha, governor of the southeastern state of Imo.

Okorocha, who was previously widely criticised for using public funds to erect statues of prominent African leaders, on Monday appointed his sister to the post.

Ogechi Ololo now takes up the first such portfolio in Nigeria. She previously served as Okorocha&#39;s deputy chief of staff and special adviser on domestic matters, in charge of Christmas decorations.

The governor&#39;s spokesman, Sam Onwuemeodo, could not provide exact details of Ololo&#39;s responsibilities when contacted by AFP Tuesday, but said: &quot;There is nothing unusual about the appointment&quot;.

&quot;The governor is a man of ideas, always introducing new things to governance.&quot;

The commissioner&#39;s job &quot;is an innovation that should be copied by other governors,&quot; he added. He &quot;wants to always make the people happy. That&#39;s why he has created a ministry for that purpose.&quot;

The remote Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan is known for measuring its success by Gross National Happiness rather than Gross Domestic Product.

Criteria taken into account include psychological well-being, health, education, vitality in the community and the living standards enjoyed by the population.

Okorocha, a leading member in President Muhammadu Buhari&#39;s All Progressives Congress party, is one of Nigeria&#39;s best-known but also controversial state governors.

He has been accused of appointing family members and cronies to government offices without regard to the state&#39;s lean finances, including naming his son-in-law as chief of staff.&nbsp;

In recent months he has honoured Liberia&#39;s outgoing President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and South Africa&#39;s Jacob Zuma with statues in the state.

Zuma&#39;s statue was reported to have cost 520 million naira ($1.4 million, 1.2 million euros).

Okorocha was criticised for the expense as public sector workers in Imo were owed several months&#39; salary.&nbsp;

He has also been criticised for spending millions of naira to put up a Christmas tree reputed to be one of the biggest in the world.&nbsp;

Rochas Okorocha, governor of the southeastern state of Imo, on Monday appointed his sister Ogechi Ololo to the post

It has been ranked among the happiest places in the world despite widespread unrest, political crisis, and recession. Now one Nigerian state has a minister in charge of contentment. The commissioner for happiness and couples' fulfilment is the brainchild of Rochas Okorocha, governor of the southeastern state of Imo. Okorocha, who was previously widely criticised for using public funds to erect statues of prominent African leaders, on Monday appointed his sister to the post. Ogechi Ololo now takes up the first such portfolio in Nigeria. She previously served as Okorocha's deputy chief of staff and special adviser on domestic matters, in charge of Christmas decorations. The governor's spokesman, Sam Onwuemeodo, could not provide exact details of Ololo's responsibilities when contacted by AFP Tuesday, but said: "There is nothing unusual about the appointment". "The governor is a man of ideas, always introducing new things to governance." The commissioner's job "is an innovation that should be copied by other governors," he added. He "wants to always make the people happy. That's why he has created a ministry for that purpose." The remote Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan is known for measuring its success by Gross National Happiness rather than Gross Domestic Product. Criteria taken into account include psychological well-being, health, education, vitality in the community and the living standards enjoyed by the population. Okorocha, a leading member in President Muhammadu Buhari's All Progressives Congress party, is one of Nigeria's best-known but also controversial state governors. He has been accused of appointing family members and cronies to government offices without regard to the state's lean finances, including naming his son-in-law as chief of staff. In recent months he has honoured Liberia's outgoing President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and South Africa's Jacob Zuma with statues in the state. Zuma's statue was reported to have cost 520 million naira ($1.4 million, 1.2 million euros). Okorocha was criticised for the expense as public sector workers in Imo were owed several months' salary. He has also been criticised for spending millions of naira to put up a Christmas tree reputed to be one of the biggest in the world.

Now, Nigeria gets 'Happiness Minister'

President Ram Nath Kovind appointed five new governors on Saturday with Brig&nbsp;(Dr) BD Mishra (Retd) taking over as governor of Arunachal Pradesh.

Banwarilal Purohit was appointed governor of Tamil Nadu, and Satya Pal Malik as governor of Bihar.

Professor Jagdish Mukhi was appointed governor of Assam, and Ganga Prasad governor of Meghalaya.&nbsp;

In addition, Admiral (Retd) DK Joshi was made lieutenant governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.&nbsp;

In addition, Admiral (Retd) DK Joshi was made LG of Andaman and Nicobar

President Ram Nath Kovind appointed five new governors on Saturday with Brig (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd) taking over as governor of Arunachal Pradesh. Banwarilal Purohit was appointed governor of Tamil Nadu, and Satya Pal Malik as governor of Bihar. Professor Jagdish Mukhi was appointed governor of Assam, and Ganga Prasad governor of Meghalaya. In addition, Admiral (Retd) DK Joshi was made lieutenant governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Five states get new governors

India&#39;s members of parliament can soon expect a steep hike in salary as the central government has decided to give them a 100 per cent&nbsp;raise, taking their basic pay from Rs 50,000 (USD 740) to Rs 1 lakh (USD 1,500) per month.

The Prime Minister&#39;s Office (PMO) is learnt to have agreed to consider a recommendation made by the Joint Committee on Salaries and Allowances of Members of Parliament, which is headed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Yogi Adityanath.

The PMO is believed to have agreed to revise not only the parliamentarians&#39; salary but also their allowances.

The government is also mulling over increasing the President&#39;s salary from current Rs. 1.5 lakh (USD 2,246) per month to Rs 5 lakh (USD 7,489) and the governor&#39;s salary from current Rs&nbsp;1.10 lakh (USD 1,647) to Rs. 2.5 lakh (USD 3,744).

(DNA)

The prime minister's office is believed to have agreed to revise not only the parliamentarians' salary but also their allowances

India's members of parliament can soon expect a steep hike in salary as the central government has decided to give them a 100 per cent raise, taking their basic pay from Rs 50,000 (USD 740) to Rs 1 lakh (USD 1,500) per month. The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) is learnt to have agreed to consider a recommendation made by the Joint Committee on Salaries and Allowances of Members of Parliament, which is headed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Yogi Adityanath. The PMO is believed to have agreed to revise not only the parliamentarians' salary but also their allowances. The government is also mulling over increasing the President's salary from current Rs. 1.5 lakh (USD 2,246) per month to Rs 5 lakh (USD 7,489) and the governor's salary from current Rs 1.10 lakh (USD 1,647) to Rs. 2.5 lakh (USD 3,744). (DNA)

India's parliamentarians to get 100% salary hike

Asian stocks rose today as risk appetite continued to recover from last week&#39;s Brexit shock, but the pound came under renewed pressure after the Bank of England&#39;s governor hinted at an interest rate cut ahead.&nbsp; 
 
MSCI&#39;s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan rose 0.4 per cent. 
 
The index has recovered nearly all the losses suffered last Friday when global markets plunged in response to Britain&#39;s decision to leave the European Union. 
 
It has gained close to 3.5 per cent since Friday&#39;s close on a combination of short-covering and relief that Brexit did not spark contagion in the global financial system like that which engulfed markets during the 2008-09 crisis. 
 
Japan&#39;s Nikkei rose 0.6 per cent after the yen surrendered more of the territory gained during the flight to quality seen earlier in the week. It is on track for a 4.8 per cent gain for the week.&nbsp; 
 
South Korea&#39;s Kospi extended gains to 0.8 per cent, set to end the week 3.2 per cent higher.&nbsp; 
 
China&#39;s CSI 300 and Shanghai Composite indexes advanced 0.4 per cent, and looked set for weekly gains of 2.9 per cent and 3 per cent respectively, after data showed growth in China&#39;s services sector accelerated in June, while the manufacturing sector stalled.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;Share markets rebounded over the past week as worries about Brexit leading to global financial and economic chaos faded somewhat,&quot; Shane Oliver, head of investment strategy at AMP Capital in Sydney, wrote in a note. 
 
&quot;The week ahead will no doubt see bouts of Brexit-related nervousness but it may continue to settle down in the absence of any new developments in Europe.&quot; 
 
The Dow Jones industrial average climbed 1.3 per cent on Thursday, posting its third straight day of gains and erasing a bulk of its losses after Brexit. 
 
Some of the overnight gains on Wall Street were attributed to hopes for more monetary easing after BOE governor Mark Carney said on Thursday the central bank would probably need to pump more stimulus into Britain`s economy over the summer in wake of the Brexit shock. 
 
A number of Asian central banks, including those in Japan and China, are also expected to ease policy further later this year, while a number of Asian governments have ramped up fiscal stimulus. 
 
Carney&#39;s comments forced the pound to head south on Thursday and cut short the currency&#39;s recovery from a 31-year low on Monday. 
 
Sterling last traded at $1.3346 after nearly touching $1.35 on Thursday. The pound, which lost almost 8 per cent soon after the Brexit vote, has declined a further 2.6 per cent since. It sank to $1.3122 on Monday, its lowest since 1985. 
 
&quot;Carney has always been nervous about how Brexit would impact the UK economy and now that it is a reality, he is preparing for the worst, agrees with the doom and gloom scenario and wants to assure the market that the BoE will be proactive,&quot; wrote Kathy Lien, managing director of FX strategy at BK Asset Management. 
 
Sterling&#39;s slide added mild pressure on the euro, which was steady at $1.1104 after slipping overnight from $1.1155, its highest in six days. It&#39;s poised to end the week flat. 
 
The dollar pulled back slightly against the safe-haven yen, but retained most of this week&#39;s gains. The greenback, which fell to 99.00 yen in the initial phases of the Brexit shock, was last trading at 102.88 yen, on track for a gain of 0.7 per cent for the week. 
 
In commodities, crude oil advanced on expectations of rate cuts and better demand-supply balance. 
 
US crude was up 0.4 per cent at $48.54 a barrel after shedding more than 3 per cent on Thursday, but remains poised for a 1.9 per cent loss for the week. 
 
Brent crude rose 0.5 per cent to $49.98, heading for a weekly gain of 3.2 per cent.&nbsp; 
 
But in a sign that risk appetite remains tentative, the safe-haven gold climbed 0.4 per cent to $1,327.31 an ounce, set to end the week 0.9 per cent higher, its fifth consecutive weekly gain.&nbsp; 
 
(Reuters)

In preparation to counter Brexit's negative impact, Bank of England's governor hinted at an interest rate cut

Asian stocks rose today as risk appetite continued to recover from last week's Brexit shock, but the pound came under renewed pressure after the Bank of England's governor hinted at an interest rate cut ahead. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan rose 0.4 per cent. The index has recovered nearly all the losses suffered last Friday when global markets plunged in response to Britain's decision to leave the European Union. It has gained close to 3.5 per cent since Friday's close on a combination of short-covering and relief that Brexit did not spark contagion in the global financial system like that which engulfed markets during the 2008-09 crisis. Japan's Nikkei rose 0.6 per cent after the yen surrendered more of the territory gained during the flight to quality seen earlier in the week. It is on track for a 4.8 per cent gain for the week. South Korea's Kospi extended gains to 0.8 per cent, set to end the week 3.2 per cent higher. China's CSI 300 and Shanghai Composite indexes advanced 0.4 per cent, and looked set for weekly gains of 2.9 per cent and 3 per cent respectively, after data showed growth in China's services sector accelerated in June, while the manufacturing sector stalled. "Share markets rebounded over the past week as worries about Brexit leading to global financial and economic chaos faded somewhat," Shane Oliver, head of investment strategy at AMP Capital in Sydney, wrote in a note. "The week ahead will no doubt see bouts of Brexit-related nervousness but it may continue to settle down in the absence of any new developments in Europe." The Dow Jones industrial average climbed 1.3 per cent on Thursday, posting its third straight day of gains and erasing a bulk of its losses after Brexit. Some of the overnight gains on Wall Street were attributed to hopes for more monetary easing after BOE governor Mark Carney said on Thursday the central bank would probably need to pump more stimulus into Britain`s economy over the summer in wake of the Brexit shock. A number of Asian central banks, including those in Japan and China, are also expected to ease policy further later this year, while a number of Asian governments have ramped up fiscal stimulus. Carney's comments forced the pound to head south on Thursday and cut short the currency's recovery from a 31-year low on Monday. Sterling last traded at $1.3346 after nearly touching $1.35 on Thursday. The pound, which lost almost 8 per cent soon after the Brexit vote, has declined a further 2.6 per cent since. It sank to $1.3122 on Monday, its lowest since 1985. "Carney has always been nervous about how Brexit would impact the UK economy and now that it is a reality, he is preparing for the worst, agrees with the doom and gloom scenario and wants to assure the market that the BoE will be proactive," wrote Kathy Lien, managing director of FX strategy at BK Asset Management. Sterling's slide added mild pressure on the euro, which was steady at $1.1104 after slipping overnight from $1.1155, its highest in six days. It's poised to end the week flat. The dollar pulled back slightly against the safe-haven yen, but retained most of this week's gains. The greenback, which fell to 99.00 yen in the initial phases of the Brexit shock, was last trading at 102.88 yen, on track for a gain of 0.7 per cent for the week. In commodities, crude oil advanced on expectations of rate cuts and better demand-supply balance. US crude was up 0.4 per cent at $48.54 a barrel after shedding more than 3 per cent on Thursday, but remains poised for a 1.9 per cent loss for the week. Brent crude rose 0.5 per cent to $49.98, heading for a weekly gain of 3.2 per cent. But in a sign that risk appetite remains tentative, the safe-haven gold climbed 0.4 per cent to $1,327.31 an ounce, set to end the week 0.9 per cent higher, its fifth consecutive weekly gain. (Reuters)

Asia stocks rise as risk appetite recovers, pound under fresh pressure

<div>Reserve Bank of India chief Raghuram Rajan on Monday defended his record in fighting inflation, and made a case for the&nbsp;monetary policy reforms he has championed, in his first public appearance since announcing that&nbsp;he will step down at the end of his tenure in September. 
 
In a speech, the outgoing&nbsp;governor of India&#39;s central bank, Reserve Bank of India,&nbsp;addressed critics who have accused him of keeping interest rates too high, saying they cannot &quot;have it both ways, want lower inflation as well as lower policy rates.&quot; 
 
 
&quot;The fact that inflation is fairly close to the upper bound of our target zone today suggests we have not been overly hawkish&nbsp;and were wise to disregard advice in the past to cut more deeply,&quot; Rajan said.</div>

<div> 
Consumer inflation hit a near two-year high of 5.76 per cent in May, or the upper end of the central bank&#39;s inflation target of 2 per cent to 6 per cent. 
 
Rajan also strongly defended the upcoming introduction of a monetary policy panel to set interest rates,&nbsp;a policy he has championed,&nbsp;saying &quot;the rewards will be many&quot;, including a more stable policy framework. 
 
(Reuters)</div>

Tells critics of his monetary policy reforms they can't have it 'both ways'

Reserve Bank of India chief Raghuram Rajan on Monday defended his record in fighting inflation, and made a case for the monetary policy reforms he has championed, in his first public appearance since announcing that he will step down at the end of his tenure in September. In a speech, the outgoing governor of India's central bank, Reserve Bank of India, addressed critics who have accused him of keeping interest rates too high, saying they cannot "have it both ways, want lower inflation as well as lower policy rates." "The fact that inflation is fairly close to the upper bound of our target zone today suggests we have not been overly hawkish and were wise to disregard advice in the past to cut more deeply," Rajan said. Consumer inflation hit a near two-year high of 5.76 per cent in May, or the upper end of the central bank's inflation target of 2 per cent to 6 per cent. Rajan also strongly defended the upcoming introduction of a monetary policy panel to set interest rates, a policy he has championed, saying "the rewards will be many", including a more stable policy framework. (Reuters)

Out not down: Indian central bank governor Raghuram Rajan defends his record

Reserve Bank of India (RBI), central bank of India, Governor Raghuram Rajan, who has faced criticism from members of the ruling party for keeping interest rates too high, stunned officials on Saturday by announcing he would step down when his term ends on September 4. 
 
Rajan, a former chief economist at the IMF, has been popular with foreign investors for his efforts to tackle inflation, and won praise for helping rescue India from its worst currency crisis in more than two decades after taking the helm in September 2013. 
 
But in a nearly 900-world letter to staff he said he planned to return to academia, even as he noted two of his actions - the creation of a monetary policy committee to set interest rates and the clean-up of the banking sector - remained unfinished. 
 
&quot;While I was open to seeing these developments through, on due reflection, and after consultation with the government, I want to share with you that I will be returning to academia when my term as Governor ends on Sept. 4, 2016,&quot; Rajan said in the letter released by the RBI. 
 
&quot;I will, of course, always be available to serve my country when needed.&quot; 
 
Rajan, who is on leave from the University of Chicago, was appointed RBI Governor by the previous Congress government, where he had served as chief economic advisor to the finance minister for about a year before taking the helm of the central bank. 
 
&quot;The Government appreciates the good work done by him and respects his decision. A decision on his successor would be announced shortly,&quot; Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said in a tweet on Saturday. 
 
Although feted by investors, Rajan had faced strident criticism from right-wing members of Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#39;s Bharatiya Janata Party, including parliament member Subramanian Swamy, who has waged a public campaign against his economic policies. 
 
Rajan had also veered into topics - such as intolerance in society - that have angered some BJP members, as did recent comments that were seen by some government officials as playing down their economic accomplishments. 
 
&quot;GOOD TEACHER&quot; 
 
Still, Rajan was known to have a good working relationship with Modi, with the Prime Minister calling the RBI governor a &quot;good teacher&quot; on economic matters, and government officials had previously told Reuters that Modi&#39;s administration would re-appoint the governor, should he wish to stay on. 
 
Many of Rajan&#39;s key accomplishments have come in close collaboration with the Modi government. 
 
Rajan pushed for inflation targeting to tackle India&#39;s history of volatile prices, which was then unveiled by the government last year. 
 
He has also worked with the government on the creation of a monetary policy committee as well as the clean-up of heavily indebted banks - both of which may now have to be tackled by his successor. 
 
Current RBI Deputy Governor Urjit Patel, State Bank of India chairman Arundhati Bhattacharya, the finance ministry&#39;s Chief Economic Adviser Arvind Subramanian and the government&#39;s Economic Affairs Secretary Shaktikanta Das have previously been named by analysts as potential replacements should Rajan depart. 
 
Analysts said markets would likely react negatively on Monday, at a time when global factors such as Britain&#39;s referendum on European Union membership are already weighing. Though many analysts had speculated Rajan could decide not to pursue a second term, few had foreseen it would come in the form of a letter to staff. 
 
Senior government and RBI officials contacted by Reuters said they had been taken by surprise at the announcement. 
 
&quot;This will be seen as a disappointment by the market particularly the international investors&#39; community,&quot; said Ananth Narayan, regional head of financial markets for ASEAN and South Asia at Standard Chartered Bank. 
 
&quot;And we can only hope the government quickly announces a strong replacement to fill his big shoes.&quot; 
(Reuters)

Investors loved him, Modi had a strong like but more right-wing members of India's ruling party were strident critics

Reserve Bank of India (RBI), central bank of India, Governor Raghuram Rajan, who has faced criticism from members of the ruling party for keeping interest rates too high, stunned officials on Saturday by announcing he would step down when his term ends on September 4. Rajan, a former chief economist at the IMF, has been popular with foreign investors for his efforts to tackle inflation, and won praise for helping rescue India from its worst currency crisis in more than two decades after taking the helm in September 2013. But in a nearly 900-world letter to staff he said he planned to return to academia, even as he noted two of his actions - the creation of a monetary policy committee to set interest rates and the clean-up of the banking sector - remained unfinished. "While I was open to seeing these developments through, on due reflection, and after consultation with the government, I want to share with you that I will be returning to academia when my term as Governor ends on Sept. 4, 2016," Rajan said in the letter released by the RBI. "I will, of course, always be available to serve my country when needed." Rajan, who is on leave from the University of Chicago, was appointed RBI Governor by the previous Congress government, where he had served as chief economic advisor to the finance minister for about a year before taking the helm of the central bank. "The Government appreciates the good work done by him and respects his decision. A decision on his successor would be announced shortly," Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said in a tweet on Saturday. Although feted by investors, Rajan had faced strident criticism from right-wing members of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party, including parliament member Subramanian Swamy, who has waged a public campaign against his economic policies. Rajan had also veered into topics - such as intolerance in society - that have angered some BJP members, as did recent comments that were seen by some government officials as playing down their economic accomplishments. "GOOD TEACHER" Still, Rajan was known to have a good working relationship with Modi, with the Prime Minister calling the RBI governor a "good teacher" on economic matters, and government officials had previously told Reuters that Modi's administration would re-appoint the governor, should he wish to stay on. Many of Rajan's key accomplishments have come in close collaboration with the Modi government. Rajan pushed for inflation targeting to tackle India's history of volatile prices, which was then unveiled by the government last year. He has also worked with the government on the creation of a monetary policy committee as well as the clean-up of heavily indebted banks - both of which may now have to be tackled by his successor. Current RBI Deputy Governor Urjit Patel, State Bank of India chairman Arundhati Bhattacharya, the finance ministry's Chief Economic Adviser Arvind Subramanian and the government's Economic Affairs Secretary Shaktikanta Das have previously been named by analysts as potential replacements should Rajan depart. Analysts said markets would likely react negatively on Monday, at a time when global factors such as Britain's referendum on European Union membership are already weighing. Though many analysts had speculated Rajan could decide not to pursue a second term, few had foreseen it would come in the form of a letter to staff. Senior government and RBI officials contacted by Reuters said they had been taken by surprise at the announcement. "This will be seen as a disappointment by the market particularly the international investors' community," said Ananth Narayan, regional head of financial markets for ASEAN and South Asia at Standard Chartered Bank. "And we can only hope the government quickly announces a strong replacement to fill his big shoes." (Reuters)

Reserve Bank of India chief Raghuram Rajan to step down

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