<p>Internet services were suspended in Badlapur of Thane district in India’s Maharashtra state on Tuesday (Aug 20) amid massive&nbsp;protests following the alleged&nbsp;sexual assault of two girls at a kindergarten. Earlier in the day, cops lathi-charged the protesters who were trying to block trains at the Badlapur railway station.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">..Protests erupt in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Badlapur?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Badlapur</a> over <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sexualassault?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#sexualassault</a> of 4-year-old girls in school, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbailocaltrain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbailocaltrain</a> services hit.Police allegedly resorted to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lathicharge?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lathicharge</a> at railway stn. People who were protesting at the stn since morning have started being removed from the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/railway?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#railway</a> tracks.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rape?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rape</a> <a href="https://t.co/tXDqRL51JN">pic.twitter.com/tXDqRL51JN</a></p>
— Tariq Khan (@tariqkhansahara) <a href="https://twitter.com/tariqkhansahara/status/1825878860421906500?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The station as well as the kindergarten saw heavy police presence on Tuesday after both were vandalised by angry protesters.</p>

<p>The state government, led by allies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has vowed to fast-track the case and investigation.</p>

<p>"I spoke to the Commissioner of Police in the morning and said the accused should be charged under the strictest sections (of POCSO and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita). The case will be fast-tracked. The accused will be given the strictest punishment and, as people have demanded, we will seek capital punishment so that such incidents do not happen again,” Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde was quoted as saying by India Today.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Badlapur Sexual Assault Case: Huge protests after two 4-year-old girls allegedly abused</strong></p>

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<p>The government earlier suspended the school principal and two staffers in connection with the case. On August 17, a school attendant was detained for allegedly abusing the two girls.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, opposition parties have slammed the government for using police force on the protesters.</p>

<p>"This lathi-charge on protesters is wrong... Who is Girish Mahajan? Why was he here? Is he the Home Minister?... The entire Maharashtra govt is not good, the CM, and DCMs, don't have the right to be in the government," said Leader of Opposition in the state assembly Ambadas Danve, a politician from Shiv Sena (UBT).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Parents forced to wait for 11 hours’</strong></h2>

<p>The opposition also claimed that parents of the victims were forced to wait for 11 hours at the Badlapur police station before their complaint was filed.</p>

<p>"Atrocities are committed on a three-and-half years old girl, a four-year-old girl, and at the police station, they (parents) are made to wait for 11 hours when they seek to file a complaint....Is there any sensitivity left? I spoke to the police commissioner and told him that the woman police officer responsible for this delay must be suspended immediately," alleged Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar.</p>

<p>The Badlapur case comes into the spotlight as the entire nation expresses outrage over Kolkata rape and murder case involving a junior doctor in the eastern state of West Bengal.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Internet services were suspended in Badlapur of Thane district in India’s Maharashtra state on Tuesday (Aug 20) amid massive protests following the alleged sexual assault of two girls at a kindergarten.

Internet services were suspended in Badlapur of Thane district in India’s Maharashtra state on Tuesday (Aug 20) amid massive protests following the alleged sexual assault of two girls at a kindergarten. Earlier in the day, cops lathi-charged the protesters who were trying to block trains at the Badlapur railway station. ..Protests erupt in #Badlapur over #sexualassault of 4-year-old girls in school, #Mumbailocaltrain services hit.Police allegedly resorted to #lathicharge at railway stn. People who were protesting at the stn since morning have started being removed from the #railway tracks.#rape pic.twitter.com/tXDqRL51JN — Tariq Khan (@tariqkhansahara) August 20, 2024 × The station as well as the kindergarten saw heavy police presence on Tuesday after both were vandalised by angry protesters. The state government, led by allies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has vowed to fast-track the case and investigation. "I spoke to the Commissioner of Police in the morning and said the accused should be charged under the strictest sections (of POCSO and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita). The case will be fast-tracked. The accused will be given the strictest punishment and, as people have demanded, we will seek capital punishment so that such incidents do not happen again,” Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde was quoted as saying by India Today. Watch: Badlapur Sexual Assault Case: Huge protests after two 4-year-old girls allegedly abused × The government earlier suspended the school principal and two staffers in connection with the case. On August 17, a school attendant was detained for allegedly abusing the two girls. Meanwhile, opposition parties have slammed the government for using police force on the protesters. "This lathi-charge on protesters is wrong... Who is Girish Mahajan? Why was he here? Is he the Home Minister?... The entire Maharashtra govt is not good, the CM, and DCMs, don't have the right to be in the government," said Leader of Opposition in the state assembly Ambadas Danve, a politician from Shiv Sena (UBT). ‘Parents forced to wait for 11 hours’ The opposition also claimed that parents of the victims were forced to wait for 11 hours at the Badlapur police station before their complaint was filed. "Atrocities are committed on a three-and-half years old girl, a four-year-old girl, and at the police station, they (parents) are made to wait for 11 hours when they seek to file a complaint....Is there any sensitivity left? I spoke to the police commissioner and told him that the woman police officer responsible for this delay must be suspended immediately," alleged Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar. The Badlapur case comes into the spotlight as the entire nation expresses outrage over Kolkata rape and murder case involving a junior doctor in the eastern state of West Bengal. (With inputs from agencies)

Badlapur sexual assault case: Internet suspended amid heavy protests, police lathi-charge protesters

<p>The principal, class teacher and female attendant of a school in Mumbai's Thane district have been suspended after two nursery students, aged four, were sexually abused by the sweeper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The school administration had also formed an inquiry committee to prevent similar incidents in the future. CCTV cameras were being installed across the facility as the parents demanded protection for their kids.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the accused worker who was employed at the reputed school on a contractual basis, has been sacked and arrested. As per the complaint, the accused sweeper sexually abused the girls in the toilet of the school.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Widespread protests were triggered in the aftermath of the incident when police delayed registering the First Information Report (FIR) at the request of the parents of the children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, the locals, supported by the rickshaw union, traders' union and jewellers association among others have come together to hold a <em>bandh </em>(closure of businesses).</p>

<p>On Tuesday (Aug 20), irate parents and citizens ventured onto the tracks at the Badlapur railway station to block the path of trains and draw the administration's attention to their demand.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Maharashtra | Protest underway at Badlapur Station against the alleged sexual assault incident with a girl child at a school in Badlapur<br />
<br />
(Source: PR Dept, Central Railway) <a href="https://t.co/tEdQmiAcIf">https://t.co/tEdQmiAcIf</a> <a href="https://t.co/vJj6Jf7Hgo">pic.twitter.com/vJj6Jf7Hgo</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1825765462291968503?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-rape-murder-case-cbi-appoints-asp-seema-pahuja-to-probe-case-who-is-she-751452"><strong>Also read: Kolkata rape-murder case - CBI Appoints ASP Seema Pahuja to probe: Who is She?</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>'Sad incident'</strong></h2>

<p>Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said he was pressing to fast-track the case so that no accused was spared.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have taken serious cognizance of the incident in Badlapur. An SIT is already formed in this matter and we are also going to take action against the school where the incident took place. We are in the process to fast-track this case, and no one will be spared if found guilty," said Shinde.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On the incident of alleged sexual assault with a girl child at a school in Badlapur, Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde says "I have taken serious cognizance of the incident in Badlapur. An SIT is already formed in this matter and we are also going to take action against the school… <a href="https://t.co/awsTa88jDa">pic.twitter.com/awsTa88jDa</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1825814679161286934?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar said the state government had put four civil servants to oversee the developments in the case.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is a very sad incident. The entire machinery of the state education department has been activated. We have given instructions to 4 IAS officers from Pune and Mumbai. We are inquiring why the CCTV was not working in the school, said Kesarkar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"After the complaint was given, no action was taken. So the senior PI has been transferred. We will take this case to fast-track&nbsp;court and ensure that the maximum punishment is given to the accused. Our entire department is present here and the safety of students is our priority," added&nbsp;Kesarkar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The case has since been transferred to the special branch by the Thane Police and the sweeper has been charged under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The principal, class teacher and female attendant of a school in Mumbai's Thane district have been suspended after two nursery students, aged four, were sexually abused by the sweeper.

The principal, class teacher and female attendant of a school in Mumbai's Thane district have been suspended after two nursery students, aged four, were sexually abused by the sweeper. The school administration had also formed an inquiry committee to prevent similar incidents in the future. CCTV cameras were being installed across the facility as the parents demanded protection for their kids. Meanwhile, the accused worker who was employed at the reputed school on a contractual basis, has been sacked and arrested. As per the complaint, the accused sweeper sexually abused the girls in the toilet of the school. Widespread protests were triggered in the aftermath of the incident when police delayed registering the First Information Report (FIR) at the request of the parents of the children. According to reports, the locals, supported by the rickshaw union, traders' union and jewellers association among others have come together to hold a bandh (closure of businesses). On Tuesday (Aug 20), irate parents and citizens ventured onto the tracks at the Badlapur railway station to block the path of trains and draw the administration's attention to their demand. Maharashtra | Protest underway at Badlapur Station against the alleged sexual assault incident with a girl child at a school in Badlapur (Source: PR Dept, Central Railway) https://t.co/tEdQmiAcIf pic.twitter.com/vJj6Jf7Hgo — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2024 × Also read: Kolkata rape-murder case - CBI Appoints ASP Seema Pahuja to probe: Who is She? 'Sad incident' Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said he was pressing to fast-track the case so that no accused was spared. "I have taken serious cognizance of the incident in Badlapur. An SIT is already formed in this matter and we are also going to take action against the school where the incident took place. We are in the process to fast-track this case, and no one will be spared if found guilty," said Shinde. On the incident of alleged sexual assault with a girl child at a school in Badlapur, Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde says "I have taken serious cognizance of the incident in Badlapur. An SIT is already formed in this matter and we are also going to take action against the school… pic.twitter.com/awsTa88jDa — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2024 × Meanwhile, Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar said the state government had put four civil servants to oversee the developments in the case. "This is a very sad incident. The entire machinery of the state education department has been activated. We have given instructions to 4 IAS officers from Pune and Mumbai. We are inquiring why the CCTV was not working in the school, said Kesarkar. "After the complaint was given, no action was taken. So the senior PI has been transferred. We will take this case to fast-track court and ensure that the maximum punishment is given to the accused. Our entire department is present here and the safety of students is our priority," added Kesarkar. The case has since been transferred to the special branch by the Thane Police and the sweeper has been charged under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. (With inputs from agencies)

India: School principal, teacher suspended over sexual assault against 2 nursery kids in Mumbai's Thane

<p>Dakshin Kannada or South Canara district&nbsp;in the southern Indian state of Karnataka&nbsp;has been making headlines after the movie ‘Kantara’ highlighted the rich yet lesser-known tradition of ‘Bhoota Kola’. In a nutshell, it’s a cultural ceremony which includes worship in the form of dance, music, and the exchange of dialogues. It is also a platform for villagers to seek solutions to their problems from their revered ‘daiva’ or deity.</p>

<p>After the movie’s success, the BJP-led government announced an honorarium for the ‘Daiva Narthakas’ over the age of 60, the community that plays a part in the dance during the ‘kola’.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Recently, South Canara was again in the news when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Mulky for the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) election campaign.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-congress-party-unseats-bjp-from-power-in-karnataka-state-592056">India’s Congress party unseats BJP from power in Karnataka state, gets clear majority</a></p>

<p>About eight kilometres from Mulky lives Vittala Panara, a 65-year-old who, after his retirement, is still actively performing to keep the tradition alive. “They said we would receive Rs 2,000 ($24.31)&nbsp;a month, but nothing after that. The payment we receive for one ‘kola’ is meagre; after paying all the helping hands, there’s barely anything left in hand. This honorarium would have helped.”<br />
&nbsp;<br />
On being asked if the said amount would suffice, the jovial Panara says, “At least something is better than nothing at all.”</p>

<p>Talking of how much he earns for one performance, he says, “We are paid Rs 16,000 ($194.51) for the team of six that works overnight, in some villages, we are even offered Rs 25,000 ($303.93).”</p>

<p>Emphasising on how it becomes an expensive affair and the remuneration offered is insufficient, Panara highlights the cost of the ‘ani’, the gear (made with coconut leaves) they use to adorn themselves. He says, “It costs us about Rs 3,000 ($36.47) to make an ‘ani’.”</p>

<p>With the little remuneration and rampant modernisation, the ‘kola’ can be dubbed a dying art form. The young in the new&nbsp;generation&nbsp;are moving towards the cities to find jobs, or are engaging in business. “I have six sons and none of them will be taking this forward.”<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Seven months ago, BJP MP P C Mohan tweeted, “Adoring Daivas, dance, and divine intervention. The BJP-led #Karnataka government has announced a Rs 2,000&nbsp;($24.31) monthly allowance for ‘Daiva Narthakas’ above 60 years of age. Bhoota Kola, a spirit worship ritual depicted in the movie #Kantara is part of Hindu Dharma.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Adoring Daivas, dance, and divine intervention.<br />
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The BJP-led <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> government has announced a Rs 2,000 monthly allowance for ‘Daiva Narthakas’ above 60 years of age.<br />
<br />
Bhoota Kola, a spirit worship ritual depicted in the movie <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kantara?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kantara</a> is part of Hindu Dharma.<a href="https://twitter.com/shetty_rishab?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@shetty_rishab</a> <a href="https://t.co/ll4aO1uwQp">pic.twitter.com/ll4aO1uwQp</a></p>
— P C Mohan (@PCMohanMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/PCMohanMP/status/1583046886852030464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>In a world where art shouldn’t be bargained for, an honorarium is only a boon, until received. But here’s the grim reality of an age of tradition that is seeing its fading days.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Karnataka Election 2023: Counting underway, section 144 imposed in Bengaluru</strong></p>

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<p>As the state now enters a new era with the Congress party to be in the saddle soon, the ‘Daiva Narthakas’ are hoping that the new government takes the lead and fulfils a promise&nbsp;made to safeguard the culture&nbsp;and honour those who strive to keep it alive.</p>

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Dakshin Kannada or South Canara district in the southern Indian state of Karnataka has been making headlines after the movie ‘Kantara’ highlighted the rich yet lesser-known tradition of ‘Bhoota Kola’.

Dakshin Kannada or South Canara district in the southern Indian state of Karnataka has been making headlines after the movie ‘Kantara’ highlighted the rich yet lesser-known tradition of ‘Bhoota Kola’. In a nutshell, it’s a cultural ceremony which includes worship in the form of dance, music, and the exchange of dialogues. It is also a platform for villagers to seek solutions to their problems from their revered ‘daiva’ or deity. After the movie’s success, the BJP-led government announced an honorarium for the ‘Daiva Narthakas’ over the age of 60, the community that plays a part in the dance during the ‘kola’. Recently, South Canara was again in the news when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Mulky for the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) election campaign. ALSO READ | India’s Congress party unseats BJP from power in Karnataka state, gets clear majority About eight kilometres from Mulky lives Vittala Panara, a 65-year-old who, after his retirement, is still actively performing to keep the tradition alive. “They said we would receive Rs 2,000 ($24.31) a month, but nothing after that. The payment we receive for one ‘kola’ is meagre; after paying all the helping hands, there’s barely anything left in hand. This honorarium would have helped.” On being asked if the said amount would suffice, the jovial Panara says, “At least something is better than nothing at all.” Talking of how much he earns for one performance, he says, “We are paid Rs 16,000 ($194.51) for the team of six that works overnight, in some villages, we are even offered Rs 25,000 ($303.93).” Emphasising on how it becomes an expensive affair and the remuneration offered is insufficient, Panara highlights the cost of the ‘ani’, the gear (made with coconut leaves) they use to adorn themselves. He says, “It costs us about Rs 3,000 ($36.47) to make an ‘ani’.” With the little remuneration and rampant modernisation, the ‘kola’ can be dubbed a dying art form. The young in the new generation are moving towards the cities to find jobs, or are engaging in business. “I have six sons and none of them will be taking this forward.” Seven months ago, BJP MP P C Mohan tweeted, “Adoring Daivas, dance, and divine intervention. The BJP-led #Karnataka government has announced a Rs 2,000 ($24.31) monthly allowance for ‘Daiva Narthakas’ above 60 years of age. Bhoota Kola, a spirit worship ritual depicted in the movie #Kantara is part of Hindu Dharma.” Adoring Daivas, dance, and divine intervention. The BJP-led #Karnataka government has announced a Rs 2,000 monthly allowance for ‘Daiva Narthakas’ above 60 years of age. Bhoota Kola, a spirit worship ritual depicted in the movie #Kantara is part of Hindu Dharma.@shetty_rishab pic.twitter.com/ll4aO1uwQp — P C Mohan (@PCMohanMP) October 20, 2022 × In a world where art shouldn’t be bargained for, an honorarium is only a boon, until received. But here’s the grim reality of an age of tradition that is seeing its fading days. WATCH | Karnataka Election 2023: Counting underway, section 144 imposed in Bengaluru As the state now enters a new era with the Congress party to be in the saddle soon, the ‘Daiva Narthakas’ are hoping that the new government takes the lead and fulfils a promise made to safeguard the culture and honour those who strive to keep it alive. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: ‘Daiva Narthakas’ now hope for honorarium from government in Karnataka

<p>A section of an under-construction, four-lane bridge in the Indian state of&nbsp;Bihar's Bhagalpur district on the Sultanganj-Aguwani Ganga River route collapsed and fell for the third time, on Saturday (Aug 17).&nbsp;The incident has since raised concerns over the structural stability of the bridge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The portion spanning from Sultanganj to Agwani, between pillars 9 and 10 of the bridge collapsed and&nbsp;submerged into the&nbsp;Ganga River. The Khagaria’s District Magistrate Amit Kumar Pandey confirmed no casualties in the incident.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">अगुवानी सुल्तानगंज में गंगा पे निर्माणाधीन पुल फिर तीसरी बार गिरा ।पूरा system भ्रष्टाचार में लिप्त हैं ।मैं लगातार बोल रहा था कि फिर गिरेगा लेकिन आज तक किसी पे कोई कार्यवाही नहीं हुईं।ना अधिकारी पे ,ना एस.पी सिंघला कंपनी पे ,ना रोडिक कन्सल्टेंसी पे। <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/nitin_gadkari?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nitin_gadkari</a> <a href="https://t.co/HLnA3EkaXB">pic.twitter.com/HLnA3EkaXB</a></p>
— Dr.Sanjeev Kumar MLA Parbatta,Bihar (@DrSanjeev0121) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSanjeev0121/status/1824647341732688245?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The SP Singla construction company has been given the contract to build the Aguwani-Sultanganj bridge, which has sunk for the third time. A total of Rs. 1717 crore has been spent&nbsp;on the construction of the bridge, which has been in the works&nbsp;for nine&nbsp;years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I must tell one thing, the entire structure of the under-construction bridge, which is faulty, is supposed to be dismantled by the contractor. The construction work has already stopped there. The contractor is dismantling the structure at the direction of the Patna High Court," Pandey&nbsp;said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The project aimed to connect the Bhagalpur and Khagaria districts. However, the bridge collapsed for the third time raising safety concerns. The incident has also reportedly prompted calls for a proper analysis of the construction process.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The collapse took place amid the ongoing floods in the river Ganga which had caused a pause in the construction work.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The construction work for the bridge began in 2014 and it has failed to meet its deadline eight times. The recurrent failures of the bridge have also raised calls for an investigation to find out the root cause of the collapses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following the collapse, Union Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Jitan Ram Manjhi said, "An investigation should be conducted to identify where the lapses occurred that have led to not just one, but several bridge collapses. Those responsible must be held accountable. Why are so many bridges collapsing this year? Could there be a political conspiracy behind it?"</p>

<p>This bridge was envisioned as a major infrastructural project by Bihar&nbsp;Chief Minister Nitish Kumar but has repeatedly collapsed and been&nbsp;under construction for a long time.</p>

<p>The portions of the bridge collapsed twice in 2022.&nbsp;The first incident that year occurred in November followed by the second collapse&nbsp;in December.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A section of an under-construction, four-lane bridge in the Indian state of Bihar's Bhagalpur district on the Sultanganj-Aguwani Ganga River route collapsed and fell for the third time, on Saturday (Aug 17).

A section of an under-construction, four-lane bridge in the Indian state of Bihar's Bhagalpur district on the Sultanganj-Aguwani Ganga River route collapsed and fell for the third time, on Saturday (Aug 17). The incident has since raised concerns over the structural stability of the bridge. The portion spanning from Sultanganj to Agwani, between pillars 9 and 10 of the bridge collapsed and submerged into the Ganga River. The Khagaria’s District Magistrate Amit Kumar Pandey confirmed no casualties in the incident. अगुवानी सुल्तानगंज में गंगा पे निर्माणाधीन पुल फिर तीसरी बार गिरा ।पूरा system भ्रष्टाचार में लिप्त हैं ।मैं लगातार बोल रहा था कि फिर गिरेगा लेकिन आज तक किसी पे कोई कार्यवाही नहीं हुईं।ना अधिकारी पे ,ना एस.पी सिंघला कंपनी पे ,ना रोडिक कन्सल्टेंसी पे। @narendramodi @nitin_gadkari pic.twitter.com/HLnA3EkaXB — Dr.Sanjeev Kumar MLA Parbatta,Bihar (@DrSanjeev0121) August 17, 2024 × The SP Singla construction company has been given the contract to build the Aguwani-Sultanganj bridge, which has sunk for the third time. A total of Rs. 1717 crore has been spent on the construction of the bridge, which has been in the works for nine years. “I must tell one thing, the entire structure of the under-construction bridge, which is faulty, is supposed to be dismantled by the contractor. The construction work has already stopped there. The contractor is dismantling the structure at the direction of the Patna High Court," Pandey said. The project aimed to connect the Bhagalpur and Khagaria districts. However, the bridge collapsed for the third time raising safety concerns. The incident has also reportedly prompted calls for a proper analysis of the construction process. The collapse took place amid the ongoing floods in the river Ganga which had caused a pause in the construction work. The construction work for the bridge began in 2014 and it has failed to meet its deadline eight times. The recurrent failures of the bridge have also raised calls for an investigation to find out the root cause of the collapses. Following the collapse, Union Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Jitan Ram Manjhi said, "An investigation should be conducted to identify where the lapses occurred that have led to not just one, but several bridge collapses. Those responsible must be held accountable. Why are so many bridges collapsing this year? Could there be a political conspiracy behind it?" This bridge was envisioned as a major infrastructural project by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar but has repeatedly collapsed and been under construction for a long time. The portions of the bridge collapsed twice in 2022. The first incident that year occurred in November followed by the second collapse in December. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: Part of Bihar’s Sultanganj-Aguwani bridge collapses for the third time

<p>The Chief of Bangladesh's interim government, Muhammad Yunus, will be attending the third Voice of the Global South Summit to be hosted by India on Saturday (Aug 17). The summit will take place virtually and the opening and closing session will be chaired by Indian Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp;Modi. The presence of Bangladesh's chief advisor is significant as New Delhi and&nbsp;Dhaka continue the engagement, including a recent meeting of Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma with the Foreign Advisor of interim government&nbsp;Touhid Hossain.</p>

<p>Earlier on Thursday, PM Modi and&nbsp;Bangladesh's Yunus held talks, the first since the latter took charge. During the call, Modi reaffirmed "India's support for a democratic, stable, peaceful and progressive Bangladesh,"&nbsp;said an Indian readout. The Indian prime minister also emphasised New Delhi's "commitment to supporting the people of Bangladesh through various development initiatives."</p>

<p>During the conversation, New Delhi's concern about the situation of Hindu minorities also came up. PM Modi underlined the "importance of ensuring the safety and protection of Hindus and all other minority communities in Bangladesh". After former PM Sheikh&nbsp;Hasina's exit, the country saw increased attacks on minorities, including Hindus. The Yunus government&nbsp;had come out strongly and assured the safety of Hindus. The chief advisor himself visited the famous Dhakeshwari National Temple in Dhaka to show support to the Hindu community of his government.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjugM-e1PmHAxUnZvUHHV4GLU8QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-recalls-seven-envoys-appointed-by-previous-sheikh-hasina-govt-750539" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-recalls-seven-envoys-appointed-by-previous-sheikh-hasina-govt-750539&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjugM-e1PmHAxUnZvUHHV4GLU8QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Bangladesh recalls seven envoys appointed by previous Sheikh Hasina govt</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier this month, on&nbsp;August 5, PM Hasina left the country amid&nbsp;widespread protests. Last year, the then-Bangladesh PM&nbsp;had attended both summits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Leaders from Fiji in the Pacific to Guyana in the Caribbean will be present at the summit. The summit will also have ministerial sessions at foreign, health, youth, trade, information and technology, finance, energy, education, and environment levels.</p>

<p>In the last two&nbsp;summits&nbsp;that took place last year, over 100 countries participated. During this year's summit, at the leadership level, leaders from Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, West Asia, South America, Central America, Africa, and&nbsp;the Pacific will be present.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Bangladesh yet to take a call on Hasina's extradition</strong></p>

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<p>Leaders of Vietnam, Lao, and Timor Leste from South East Asia; Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius from India's neighbourhood; and from the rest of the Asian continent – Tajikistan, and Oman are expected to be present. From the Americas, Chile, Guyana, and El Salvador will be present. From Africa, Ethiopia and the Pacific Fiji, Marshall Islands, will also attend the summit.</p>

<p>The aim of the summit, which is an Indian initiative, is to bring the global south on a single platform where they can raise concerns and issues. In the last several years, the COVID-19, Russia and Ukraine war has impacted the global south, with high prices and disruption of supply chains. At this time, the United Nations has been found missing and unable to grasp the concerns of the global south.</p>


The Chief of Bangladesh's interim government, Muhammad Yunus, will be attending the third Voice of the Global South Summit to be hosted by India on Saturday (Aug 17).

The Chief of Bangladesh's interim government, Muhammad Yunus, will be attending the third Voice of the Global South Summit to be hosted by India on Saturday (Aug 17). The summit will take place virtually and the opening and closing session will be chaired by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The presence of Bangladesh's chief advisor is significant as New Delhi and Dhaka continue the engagement, including a recent meeting of Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma with the Foreign Advisor of interim government Touhid Hossain. Earlier on Thursday, PM Modi and Bangladesh's Yunus held talks, the first since the latter took charge. During the call, Modi reaffirmed "India's support for a democratic, stable, peaceful and progressive Bangladesh," said an Indian readout. The Indian prime minister also emphasised New Delhi's "commitment to supporting the people of Bangladesh through various development initiatives." During the conversation, New Delhi's concern about the situation of Hindu minorities also came up. PM Modi underlined the "importance of ensuring the safety and protection of Hindus and all other minority communities in Bangladesh". After former PM Sheikh Hasina's exit, the country saw increased attacks on minorities, including Hindus. The Yunus government had come out strongly and assured the safety of Hindus. The chief advisor himself visited the famous Dhakeshwari National Temple in Dhaka to show support to the Hindu community of his government. Also read: Bangladesh recalls seven envoys appointed by previous Sheikh Hasina govt Earlier this month, on August 5, PM Hasina left the country amid widespread protests. Last year, the then-Bangladesh PM had attended both summits. Leaders from Fiji in the Pacific to Guyana in the Caribbean will be present at the summit. The summit will also have ministerial sessions at foreign, health, youth, trade, information and technology, finance, energy, education, and environment levels. In the last two summits that took place last year, over 100 countries participated. During this year's summit, at the leadership level, leaders from Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, West Asia, South America, Central America, Africa, and the Pacific will be present. Watch: Bangladesh yet to take a call on Hasina's extradition × Leaders of Vietnam, Lao, and Timor Leste from South East Asia; Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius from India's neighbourhood; and from the rest of the Asian continent – Tajikistan, and Oman are expected to be present. From the Americas, Chile, Guyana, and El Salvador will be present. From Africa, Ethiopia and the Pacific Fiji, Marshall Islands, will also attend the summit. The aim of the summit, which is an Indian initiative, is to bring the global south on a single platform where they can raise concerns and issues. In the last several years, the COVID-19, Russia and Ukraine war has impacted the global south, with high prices and disruption of supply chains. At this time, the United Nations has been found missing and unable to grasp the concerns of the global south.

Bangladesh's Muhammad Yunus to attend India-hosted Global South Summit 

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Aug 16) received a phone call from the chief advisor to the new interim government in Bangladesh,&nbsp;Professor Muhammad Yunus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yunus assured PM Modi of the protection of all Hindus and minorities in the crisis-hit nation.</p>

<p>"Received a telephone call from Professor Muhammad Yunus.&nbsp;Exchanged views on the prevailing situation. Reiterated India's support for a democratic, stable, peaceful and progressive Bangladesh. He assured protection, safety and security of Hindus and all minorities in Bangladesh," PM Modi wrote.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Received a telephone call from Professor Muhammad Yunus, <a href="https://twitter.com/ChiefAdviserGoB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChiefAdviserGoB</a>. Exchanged views on the prevailing situation. Reiterated India's support for a democratic, stable, peaceful and progressive Bangladesh. He assured protection, safety and security of Hindus and all…</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1824395924086354148?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier on Thursday, the Indian PM had called on Bangladesh's interim government to ensure the safety of Hindus in the country following reports that the minorities in the South Asian nation were being targeted amid political turmoil.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj8x6y2yPmHAxXBY_UHHZD7EeYQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-recalls-seven-envoys-appointed-by-previous-sheikh-hasina-govt-750539" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-recalls-seven-envoys-appointed-by-previous-sheikh-hasina-govt-750539&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj8x6y2yPmHAxXBY_UHHZD7EeYQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">Bangladesh recalls seven envoys appointed by previous Sheikh Hasina govt</a></strong></p>

<p>"As a neighbouring country, I can understand the concern regarding whatever has happened in Bangladesh. I hope that the situation there gets normal at the earliest. The concerns of 140 crore countrymen to ensure the safety of Hindus and minorities there - India always wants our neighbouring countries to walk the path of prosperity and peace. We are committed to peace...In the days to come, we will continue to wish well for Bangladesh in its 'Vikas Yatra' because we think about the welfare of humankind," PM Modi said during his Independence Day speech from New Delhi's Red Fort.</p>

<p>Several Hindu temples, households and businesses were reportedly targeted by radical mobs following the ouster of former PM Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh. At least two Hindu leaders affiliated with Hasina's party were also murdered by rioters.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Bangladesh yet to take a call on Hasina's extradition</strong></p>

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<p>On Tuesday (Aug 13),&nbsp;Muhammad Yunus visited&nbsp;a centuries-old temple and met with Hindu community leaders to assure them of safety and protection.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Aug 16) received a phone call from the chief advisor to the new interim government in Bangladesh, Professor Muhammad Yunus.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Aug 16) received a phone call from the chief advisor to the new interim government in Bangladesh, Professor Muhammad Yunus. Yunus assured PM Modi of the protection of all Hindus and minorities in the crisis-hit nation. "Received a telephone call from Professor Muhammad Yunus. Exchanged views on the prevailing situation. Reiterated India's support for a democratic, stable, peaceful and progressive Bangladesh. He assured protection, safety and security of Hindus and all minorities in Bangladesh," PM Modi wrote. Received a telephone call from Professor Muhammad Yunus, @ChiefAdviserGoB. Exchanged views on the prevailing situation. Reiterated India's support for a democratic, stable, peaceful and progressive Bangladesh. He assured protection, safety and security of Hindus and all… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 16, 2024 × Earlier on Thursday, the Indian PM had called on Bangladesh's interim government to ensure the safety of Hindus in the country following reports that the minorities in the South Asian nation were being targeted amid political turmoil. Also read: Bangladesh recalls seven envoys appointed by previous Sheikh Hasina govt "As a neighbouring country, I can understand the concern regarding whatever has happened in Bangladesh. I hope that the situation there gets normal at the earliest. The concerns of 140 crore countrymen to ensure the safety of Hindus and minorities there - India always wants our neighbouring countries to walk the path of prosperity and peace. We are committed to peace...In the days to come, we will continue to wish well for Bangladesh in its 'Vikas Yatra' because we think about the welfare of humankind," PM Modi said during his Independence Day speech from New Delhi's Red Fort. Several Hindu temples, households and businesses were reportedly targeted by radical mobs following the ouster of former PM Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh. At least two Hindu leaders affiliated with Hasina's party were also murdered by rioters. Watch: Bangladesh yet to take a call on Hasina's extradition × On Tuesday (Aug 13), Muhammad Yunus visited a centuries-old temple and met with Hindu community leaders to assure them of safety and protection. (With inputs from agencies)

'He assured protection of Hindus,' PM Modi after talking to Bangladesh's Muhammad Yunus

<p>Security forces in northeast India's Assam state responded with a heightened state of alert after the banned outfit United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) on Thursday (August 15) delivered a bomb threat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Assam's biggest city Guwahati, the police were seen having cordoned off several roads,&nbsp;including stretches of Zoo Road, the Ulubari-Rajgarh connecting road, and Narengi. Intensive checking is reportedly underway across Assam and state borders with neighbouring Meghalaya.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Assam Tribune reported that in Narengi, just 19 km from Guwahati, near the office of the controller of defence accounts, the police reportedly summoned the bomb squad to assist in the efforts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The proscribed outfit, in a statement sent to various media houses, claimed that they had planted bombs in 19&nbsp;locations, including Jorabat, in the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The security forces swiftly swung into action across multiple districts of Assam and at the time of writing this report, a few bomb-like structures, wrapped in polythene, have been recovered from Sivasagar, Lakhimpur and Nagaon, Assam Tribune reported.</p>

<p>ULFA-I issued a press release and stated that bombs had been planted in various districts in protest against the Independence Day celebrations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Assam’s Director General of Police Gyanendra Pratap Singh said searches were carried out extensively across the state for explosive devices.</p>

<p>“At two places in Guwahati, suspicious articles were found which were opened by bomb disposal squad of police. These articles do not have ignition devices inside though some circuits and batteries are seen. The substance inside is being sent for forensic/chemical examination,” he posted on X.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-bomb-threat-two-hospitals-receive-threatening-emails-after-scare-at-schools-720628">Delhi bomb threat: Several hospitals, airports receive threatening emails after scare at schools</a></strong></p>

<p>“Similar articles have been seen at Lakhimpur, Sivasagar, Nalbari &amp; Nagaon which have been safely disposed of. In this connection, appropriate lawful investigation has been initiated,” he said.</p>

<p>Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma asked ULFA (I) chief Paresh Baruah not to create an atmosphere that will affect the flow of investments into Assam.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;More than 100 schools in Delhi-NCR receive bomb threat via e-mail</strong></p>

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<p>“Assam has 14 lakh (unemployed) youths who go to Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh to work as security guards. If Assamese youths do not stay in Assam, with whom will we make Assam independent?” he asked, referring to the ULFA (I)’s quest for sovereignty.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Security forces in northeast India's Assam state responded with a heightened state of alert after the banned outfit United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) on Thursday (August 15) delivered a bomb threat.

Security forces in northeast India's Assam state responded with a heightened state of alert after the banned outfit United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) on Thursday (August 15) delivered a bomb threat. In Assam's biggest city Guwahati, the police were seen having cordoned off several roads, including stretches of Zoo Road, the Ulubari-Rajgarh connecting road, and Narengi. Intensive checking is reportedly underway across Assam and state borders with neighbouring Meghalaya. Assam Tribune reported that in Narengi, just 19 km from Guwahati, near the office of the controller of defence accounts, the police reportedly summoned the bomb squad to assist in the efforts. The proscribed outfit, in a statement sent to various media houses, claimed that they had planted bombs in 19 locations, including Jorabat, in the city. The security forces swiftly swung into action across multiple districts of Assam and at the time of writing this report, a few bomb-like structures, wrapped in polythene, have been recovered from Sivasagar, Lakhimpur and Nagaon, Assam Tribune reported. ULFA-I issued a press release and stated that bombs had been planted in various districts in protest against the Independence Day celebrations. Assam’s Director General of Police Gyanendra Pratap Singh said searches were carried out extensively across the state for explosive devices. “At two places in Guwahati, suspicious articles were found which were opened by bomb disposal squad of police. These articles do not have ignition devices inside though some circuits and batteries are seen. The substance inside is being sent for forensic/chemical examination,” he posted on X. Also read | Delhi bomb threat: Several hospitals, airports receive threatening emails after scare at schools “Similar articles have been seen at Lakhimpur, Sivasagar, Nalbari & Nagaon which have been safely disposed of. In this connection, appropriate lawful investigation has been initiated,” he said. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma asked ULFA (I) chief Paresh Baruah not to create an atmosphere that will affect the flow of investments into Assam. Also watch | More than 100 schools in Delhi-NCR receive bomb threat via e-mail × “Assam has 14 lakh (unemployed) youths who go to Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh to work as security guards. If Assamese youths do not stay in Assam, with whom will we make Assam independent?” he asked, referring to the ULFA (I)’s quest for sovereignty. (With inputs from agencies)

Bomb scare in Assam after ULFA (I) claims it planted explosives at 19 locations

<p>In a major development, the central government has appointed IPS officer Nalin Prabhat as the special director general (SDG) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police. The Ministry of Home Affairs in an order announced his appointment as SDG&nbsp;and DGP effective&nbsp;October 1, 2024, following the clearance of his inter-cadre deputation from Andhra Pradesh to the AGMUT (Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territory) cadre by the Cabinet Appointment Committee on Wednesday (Aug 14).</p>

<p>Prabhat has major experience in counter-terrorism operations across the country. He has previously served as the director general of the National Security Guard (NSG) and as additional director general in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Jammu and Kashmir. Prabhat, a 1992-batch IPS officer, will take charge from RR Swain upon his retirement next month. Until then, he will serve as the SDG of Jammu and Kashmir Police.</p>

<p>Prabhat has vast service experience in the UT, particularly during its peak terrorism period. He gained widespread recognition for his leadership during the 2009 Lal Chowk anti-fidayeen operation, where he successfully neutralised terrorists who had attacked the Punjab Hotel in Srinagar, preventing further destruction in the heart of the city.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;J&amp;K: Back-to-back attacks plague pilgrims in Jammu and Kashmir</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jk-back-to-back-attacks-plague-pilgrims-in-jammu-and-kashmir-731123/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>As he steps into the role of DGP, Prabhat will face considerable challenges, especially given a recent surge in terrorism in the Jammu region. His extensive experience in handling high-stakes situations will be crucial as he navigates these pressing issues.</p>

<p>In parallel, preparations for assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir are ramping up. The Election Commission has recently reviewed electoral arrangements following a record voter turnout in the Lok Sabha elections.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/one-terrorist-killed-in-doda-gunfight-after-one-army-captain-succumbed-to-injuries-750117"><strong>Also read | One terrorist killed in Doda gunfight after army captain succumbs to injuries</strong></a></p>

<p>The electoral process is expected to last about a month, with the number of assembly seats increasing from 83 to 90 after a recent delimitation exercise, not accounting for those seats designated for Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. As Prabhat takes on this pivotal role, all eyes will be on his strategies and initiatives to address the complex security landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.</p>


In a major development, the central government has appointed IPS officer Nalin Prabhat as the special director general (SDG) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police. The Ministry of Home Affairs in an order announced his appointment as SDG and DGP effective October 1, 2024, following the clearance of his inter-cadre deputation from Andhra Pradesh to the AGMUT (Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territory) cadre by the Cabinet Appointment Committee on Wednesday (Aug 14).

In a major development, the central government has appointed IPS officer Nalin Prabhat as the special director general (SDG) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police. The Ministry of Home Affairs in an order announced his appointment as SDG and DGP effective October 1, 2024, following the clearance of his inter-cadre deputation from Andhra Pradesh to the AGMUT (Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territory) cadre by the Cabinet Appointment Committee on Wednesday (Aug 14). Prabhat has major experience in counter-terrorism operations across the country. He has previously served as the director general of the National Security Guard (NSG) and as additional director general in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Jammu and Kashmir. Prabhat, a 1992-batch IPS officer, will take charge from RR Swain upon his retirement next month. Until then, he will serve as the SDG of Jammu and Kashmir Police. Prabhat has vast service experience in the UT, particularly during its peak terrorism period. He gained widespread recognition for his leadership during the 2009 Lal Chowk anti-fidayeen operation, where he successfully neutralised terrorists who had attacked the Punjab Hotel in Srinagar, preventing further destruction in the heart of the city. Also watch | J&K: Back-to-back attacks plague pilgrims in Jammu and Kashmir As he steps into the role of DGP, Prabhat will face considerable challenges, especially given a recent surge in terrorism in the Jammu region. His extensive experience in handling high-stakes situations will be crucial as he navigates these pressing issues. In parallel, preparations for assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir are ramping up. The Election Commission has recently reviewed electoral arrangements following a record voter turnout in the Lok Sabha elections. Also read | One terrorist killed in Doda gunfight after army captain succumbs to injuries The electoral process is expected to last about a month, with the number of assembly seats increasing from 83 to 90 after a recent delimitation exercise, not accounting for those seats designated for Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. As Prabhat takes on this pivotal role, all eyes will be on his strategies and initiatives to address the complex security landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.

India: Nalin Prabhat joins as new special director general of Jammu Kashmir Police

<p>The Federation of Resident Doctors' Association (FORDA) on Tuesday (August 13) called off their strike following a meeting with JP Nadda, the union minister for health affairs in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government.</p>

<p>The demands put forth by the FORDA were reportedly accepted by the Union government.</p>

<p>"All demands as written in the letter accepted by Health minister in a meeting that just ended," it said.</p>

<p>The FORDA will now participate&nbsp;in a newly formed committee focused on the Central Healthcare Protection Act. With such consensus&nbsp;in place, FORDA has announced that all medical services will resume normal operations starting August 14&nbsp;morning.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-doctors-nationwide-protest-cripples-opd-services-top-updates-749671">Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Doctors' nationwide protest cripples OPD services</a></strong></p>

<p>The ongoing strike in hospitals across the Indian state of&nbsp;West Bengal, sparked by the death of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, took a significant turn today as the Calcutta High Court intervened in the case and ordered a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).</p>

<p>The court's directive comes after mounting pressure from junior doctors who have been demanding justice and calling for an immediate resolution to the case.</p>

<p>The incident, which was initially reported as a suicide, has drawn severe criticism over its handling by state authorities.</p>

<p>In a scathing judgement, the high court condemned the incident as "gruesome" and expressed concern over alleged attempts to cover it up. The court also ordered that all relevant documents related to the case be transferred to the CBI without delay.</p>

<p><b>Also watch |&nbsp;Kolkata rape-murder case: Doctors protest across several parts of India</b></p>

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<p>The controversy deepened earlier when the college's principal faced backlash for suggesting that the victim, who was allegedly raped and murdered, was suffering from psychosis, effectively blaming her for her own death.</p>

<p>As the probe moves forward, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the victim and restoring normalcy in the state’s healthcare system.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Federation of Resident Doctors' Association (FORDA) on Tuesday (August 13) called off their strike following a meeting with JP Nadda, the union minister for health affairs in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government.

The Federation of Resident Doctors' Association (FORDA) on Tuesday (August 13) called off their strike following a meeting with JP Nadda, the union minister for health affairs in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. The demands put forth by the FORDA were reportedly accepted by the Union government. "All demands as written in the letter accepted by Health minister in a meeting that just ended," it said. The FORDA will now participate in a newly formed committee focused on the Central Healthcare Protection Act. With such consensus in place, FORDA has announced that all medical services will resume normal operations starting August 14 morning. Also read | Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Doctors' nationwide protest cripples OPD services The ongoing strike in hospitals across the Indian state of West Bengal, sparked by the death of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, took a significant turn today as the Calcutta High Court intervened in the case and ordered a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The court's directive comes after mounting pressure from junior doctors who have been demanding justice and calling for an immediate resolution to the case. The incident, which was initially reported as a suicide, has drawn severe criticism over its handling by state authorities. In a scathing judgement, the high court condemned the incident as "gruesome" and expressed concern over alleged attempts to cover it up. The court also ordered that all relevant documents related to the case be transferred to the CBI without delay. Also watch | Kolkata rape-murder case: Doctors protest across several parts of India × The controversy deepened earlier when the college's principal faced backlash for suggesting that the victim, who was allegedly raped and murdered, was suffering from psychosis, effectively blaming her for her own death. As the probe moves forward, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the victim and restoring normalcy in the state’s healthcare system. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian doctors end strike over Kolkata medic's sexual assault and murder

<p>A couple from northern India's Uttar Pradesh, identified as Saurabh Babbar (35) and his wife Mona, allegedly died by suicide in Uttarakhand's Haridwar, due to mounting financial debts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident came to light after the couple sent a WhatsApp message to their family on August 10,&nbsp;describing their intent and decision for self-harm, according to local police.</p>

<p>The husband's body was found on the banks of the Ganga River near Jamalpur Khurd village in the Ranipur Kotwali area on Monday (August 12) morning. The efforts to locate his wife were ongoing at the time of filing this report.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-woman-dies-by-suicide-over-body-shaming-bullying-and-harassment-at-workplace-741815">Indian woman dies by suicide over body-shaming, bullying and harassment at workplace</a></strong></p>

<p>Saurabh Babbar, a resident of Kishanpura Kotwali Nagar in Saharanpur district, was a bullion trader and the owner of 'Sai Jewelers' in Saharanpur. He also worked as a kitty collector but had reportedly accumulated significant debt which he struggled to repay, according to reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The financial burden allegedly led the couple to travel to Haridwar with the intent of ending their lives near Har Ki Pauri, a prominent ghat on the Ganga River.</p>

<p>Local residents discovered Saurabh Babbar's body at around 9:30 am (local time), stuck in a swamp along the riverbank. They informed the police who arrived at the scene and recovered the body. Identification was made through documents found in his wallet which also contained a mobile phone.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India: Woman dies by suicide after husband loses $180,000 in betting in Karnataka</strong></p>

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<p>After receiving the suicide note, the couple's family immediately contacted Haridwar police, following which a search operation was launched. The police have since been investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths.</p>

<p>Ranipur Kotwali in-charge Vijay Singh said that Babbar's body has been sent to the mortuary for a post-mortem examination. The investigation into the incident continues.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em>Get help &amp; support for suicide</em></p>

<p><em>If you or someone you know wants help for mental well-being, don't hesitate to talk to a professional. You can contact local authorities and also encourage the person to contact a&nbsp;suicide prevention hotline.&nbsp;WION does not make any recommendations.</em></p>


A couple from northern India's Uttar Pradesh, identified as Saurabh Babbar (35) and his wife Mona, allegedly died by suicide in Uttarakhand's Haridwar, due to mounting financial debts.

A couple from northern India's Uttar Pradesh, identified as Saurabh Babbar (35) and his wife Mona, allegedly died by suicide in Uttarakhand's Haridwar, due to mounting financial debts. The incident came to light after the couple sent a WhatsApp message to their family on August 10, describing their intent and decision for self-harm, according to local police. The husband's body was found on the banks of the Ganga River near Jamalpur Khurd village in the Ranipur Kotwali area on Monday (August 12) morning. The efforts to locate his wife were ongoing at the time of filing this report. Also read | Indian woman dies by suicide over body-shaming, bullying and harassment at workplace Saurabh Babbar, a resident of Kishanpura Kotwali Nagar in Saharanpur district, was a bullion trader and the owner of 'Sai Jewelers' in Saharanpur. He also worked as a kitty collector but had reportedly accumulated significant debt which he struggled to repay, according to reports. The financial burden allegedly led the couple to travel to Haridwar with the intent of ending their lives near Har Ki Pauri, a prominent ghat on the Ganga River. Local residents discovered Saurabh Babbar's body at around 9:30 am (local time), stuck in a swamp along the riverbank. They informed the police who arrived at the scene and recovered the body. Identification was made through documents found in his wallet which also contained a mobile phone. Also watch | India: Woman dies by suicide after husband loses $180,000 in betting in Karnataka × After receiving the suicide note, the couple's family immediately contacted Haridwar police, following which a search operation was launched. The police have since been investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Ranipur Kotwali in-charge Vijay Singh said that Babbar's body has been sent to the mortuary for a post-mortem examination. The investigation into the incident continues. (With inputs from agencies) Get help & support for suicide If you or someone you know wants help for mental well-being, don't hesitate to talk to a professional. You can contact local authorities and also encourage the person to contact a suicide prevention hotline. WION does not make any recommendations.

Uttar Pradesh debt-ridden couple commits suicide in Haridwar

<p>An American Hindu organisation has complained that its annual India Day parade featuring a tableau of Ram Mandir, slated to be held in New York City, is attracting a lot of hate and bigotry on social media. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The Federation of Indian Associations NY-NJ-CT-NE in a statement said that the hate campaign led to the loss of sponsorships and fear-mongering among law-abiding citizens of the country.</p>

<p>India Parade will be held on August 18 in New York City, an annual event marking the country’s Independence Day (Aug 15).</p>

<p>“We find ourselves under heavy scrutiny for organizing a peaceful community celebration that our dedicated volunteers have worked tirelessly to prepare. This malicious and hate-filled scrutiny, spread on social media, has resulted in the loss of sponsorships–the lifeblood of our event–and in fear-mongering, causing law-abiding citizens to worry about potential unruly conduct due to the hateful messages circulating online,” the statement read.</p>

<p>“Our inclusion of a float that celebrates the inauguration of a sacred landmark, significant to hundreds of millions of Hindus has been insulted by derogatory name calling and the officials and the mainstream is radio silent. I respectfully ask, would such name-calling be tolerated if directed at any other community’s place of worship? The answer is unequivocally no,” the statement added.</p>

<p>Notably, the Indian American Muslim Council (IAMC) had earlier criticised the event, especially for including a miniature of Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir in the celebrations. The IAMC described the move as a symbol of violence, historic injustice and religious intolerance.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiSw9P3_vSHAxUwj68BHVKQA7gQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-murmu-recalls-horrors-of-partition-says-social-justice-top-priority-of-modi-government-750159" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-murmu-recalls-horrors-of-partition-says-social-justice-top-priority-of-modi-government-750159&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiSw9P3_vSHAxUwj68BHVKQA7gQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">President Murmu recalls horrors of partition, says social justice top priority of Modi government</a></strong></p>

<p>Not just that, the organisers of the India Day parade claimed they are also facing calls for an all-out ban on the event.</p>

<p>“For over four decades, the parade has been a celebration of community, growing due to its display of inclusion and diversity, allowing participants to display their expressions respectfully and peacefully without diminishing or disrespecting others. Despite our longstanding tradition of celebrating diversity, we are now the target of communal hate and bigotry. Efforts are being made to dissuade the Mayor’s and Governor’s offices from attending or supporting the celebration, and harmful rhetoric is being spread on social media platforms,” the statement added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiSw9P3_vSHAxUwj68BHVKQA7gQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/schools-in-haryana-to-replace-good-morning-good-afternoon-with-jai-hind-to-inspire-patriotism-748983" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/schools-in-haryana-to-replace-good-morning-good-afternoon-with-jai-hind-to-inspire-patriotism-748983&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiSw9P3_vSHAxUwj68BHVKQA7gQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">India: Schools in Haryana to replace ‘good morning,` `good afternoon` with ‘Jai Hind’ to inspire patriotism</a></strong></p>

<p>“As we celebrate what we consider a vital aspect of our faith through the celebration of this landmark, we unequivocally reject violence and hate in any form, including any damage to any religion’s place of worship. We stand for peaceful coexistence and encourage everyone to embrace this value,” said Ankur Vaidya, chairperson of the Federation Of Indian Associations&nbsp;(FIA).</p>

<p>The organisers have now urged Indian nationals and Indian-origin Americans to participate in the event to uphold the values of mutual respect.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An American Hindu organisation has complained that its annual India Day parade featuring a tableau of Ram Mandir, slated to be held in New York City, is attracting a lot of hate and bigotry on social media.

An American Hindu organisation has complained that its annual India Day parade featuring a tableau of Ram Mandir, slated to be held in New York City, is attracting a lot of hate and bigotry on social media. The Federation of Indian Associations NY-NJ-CT-NE in a statement said that the hate campaign led to the loss of sponsorships and fear-mongering among law-abiding citizens of the country. India Parade will be held on August 18 in New York City, an annual event marking the country’s Independence Day (Aug 15). “We find ourselves under heavy scrutiny for organizing a peaceful community celebration that our dedicated volunteers have worked tirelessly to prepare. This malicious and hate-filled scrutiny, spread on social media, has resulted in the loss of sponsorships–the lifeblood of our event–and in fear-mongering, causing law-abiding citizens to worry about potential unruly conduct due to the hateful messages circulating online,” the statement read. “Our inclusion of a float that celebrates the inauguration of a sacred landmark, significant to hundreds of millions of Hindus has been insulted by derogatory name calling and the officials and the mainstream is radio silent. I respectfully ask, would such name-calling be tolerated if directed at any other community’s place of worship? The answer is unequivocally no,” the statement added. Notably, the Indian American Muslim Council (IAMC) had earlier criticised the event, especially for including a miniature of Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir in the celebrations. The IAMC described the move as a symbol of violence, historic injustice and religious intolerance. Also read: President Murmu recalls horrors of partition, says social justice top priority of Modi government Not just that, the organisers of the India Day parade claimed they are also facing calls for an all-out ban on the event. “For over four decades, the parade has been a celebration of community, growing due to its display of inclusion and diversity, allowing participants to display their expressions respectfully and peacefully without diminishing or disrespecting others. Despite our longstanding tradition of celebrating diversity, we are now the target of communal hate and bigotry. Efforts are being made to dissuade the Mayor’s and Governor’s offices from attending or supporting the celebration, and harmful rhetoric is being spread on social media platforms,” the statement added. Also read: India: Schools in Haryana to replace ‘good morning,` `good afternoon` with ‘Jai Hind’ to inspire patriotism “As we celebrate what we consider a vital aspect of our faith through the celebration of this landmark, we unequivocally reject violence and hate in any form, including any damage to any religion’s place of worship. We stand for peaceful coexistence and encourage everyone to embrace this value,” said Ankur Vaidya, chairperson of the Federation Of Indian Associations (FIA). The organisers have now urged Indian nationals and Indian-origin Americans to participate in the event to uphold the values of mutual respect. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Resulted in heavy loss,’ India Day parade in US faces hate over Ram Mandir tableau

<p>It seems thieves are working overtime in the holy Indian city of Ayodhya as more than 3,800 bamboo and 36 projector lights worth over Rs 50 lakh ($60,000) installed on the Bhakti Path and Ram Path were allegedly stolen. Police in Uttar Pradesh, a northern state governed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), registered a case on August 9 following a complaint by a representative of the firm that had installed these lights under a government contract.</p>

<p>"As many as 6,400 bamboo lights were installed on Rampath and 96 projector lights were installed on Bhakti Path. Till 19 March all the lights were there but after an inspection on May 9, it was found that some lights were missing,” the representative said.</p>

<p>"Till now around 3,800 bamboo lights and 36 projector lights have been stolen by some unknown thieves," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Bhakti Path and Ram Path</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, Bhakti Path and Ram Path are high-security zones in Ayodhya, the city where a grand temple of Lord&nbsp;Ram was inaugurated by PM Modi in January this year. Bhakti Path is the main road that connects Shringar Ghat to Hanuman Garhi and finally the temple.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiZpv7sqvSHAxV2iFYBHZYyO8gQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-rape-case-cong-leader-supports-akhilesh-yadavs-dna-test-call-bjp-leaders-visit-victims-family-747053" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-rape-case-cong-leader-supports-akhilesh-yadavs-dna-test-call-bjp-leaders-visit-victims-family-747053&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiZpv7sqvSHAxV2iFYBHZYyO8gQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Ayodhya rape case: Survivor’s mother claims Samajwadi Party leaders told her to drop complaint, offered money</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ram Path is a 13-km-long highway that links Sadatganj to Naya Ghat.</p>

<p>As the grand temple was inaugurated in the city, the two roads witnessed a remarkable renovation and renovation with over $60,000 of taxpayers’ money. All of it seems to have gone down the drain now, even as the government’s slumber continues.</p>

<h2><strong>Social media shocked</strong></h2>

<p>The news came as a rude shocker for users on social media, with people raising questions about the state led by&nbsp;Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.</p>

<p>“This is condition of Law &amp; Order in Uttar Pradesh under Yogi Adityanath,” one user said. “In Yogi rajaya..even lord Ram mandir properties are not safe,” a second user commented.</p>

<p>A third user hinted at an inside job, demanding a probe into the matter.</p>

<p>“Looks like this is an inside job, as robbing such a large number of lights is not possible. Needs to be probed intensively,” said the user.</p>

<p>“Yogi model,” a fourth user quipped.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


It seems thieves are working overtime in the holy Indian city of Ayodhya as more than 3,800 bamboo and 36 projector lights worth over Rs 50 lakh ($60,000) installed on the Bhakti Path and Ram Path were allegedly stolen.

It seems thieves are working overtime in the holy Indian city of Ayodhya as more than 3,800 bamboo and 36 projector lights worth over Rs 50 lakh ($60,000) installed on the Bhakti Path and Ram Path were allegedly stolen. Police in Uttar Pradesh, a northern state governed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), registered a case on August 9 following a complaint by a representative of the firm that had installed these lights under a government contract. "As many as 6,400 bamboo lights were installed on Rampath and 96 projector lights were installed on Bhakti Path. Till 19 March all the lights were there but after an inspection on May 9, it was found that some lights were missing,” the representative said. "Till now around 3,800 bamboo lights and 36 projector lights have been stolen by some unknown thieves," he added. Bhakti Path and Ram Path Notably, Bhakti Path and Ram Path are high-security zones in Ayodhya, the city where a grand temple of Lord Ram was inaugurated by PM Modi in January this year. Bhakti Path is the main road that connects Shringar Ghat to Hanuman Garhi and finally the temple. Also read: Ayodhya rape case: Survivor’s mother claims Samajwadi Party leaders told her to drop complaint, offered money Meanwhile, Ram Path is a 13-km-long highway that links Sadatganj to Naya Ghat. As the grand temple was inaugurated in the city, the two roads witnessed a remarkable renovation and renovation with over $60,000 of taxpayers’ money. All of it seems to have gone down the drain now, even as the government’s slumber continues. Social media shocked The news came as a rude shocker for users on social media, with people raising questions about the state led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. “This is condition of Law & Order in Uttar Pradesh under Yogi Adityanath,” one user said. “In Yogi rajaya..even lord Ram mandir properties are not safe,” a second user commented. A third user hinted at an inside job, demanding a probe into the matter. “Looks like this is an inside job, as robbing such a large number of lights is not possible. Needs to be probed intensively,” said the user. “Yogi model,” a fourth user quipped. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Yogi model?’ Uproar as lights, bamboos worth $60k stolen in Ram’s city Ayodhya

<p><strong>Bengaluru bus crash:</strong>&nbsp;A horrifying bus crash in India’s IT city Bengaluru left at least two people severely injured as the bus driver failed to hit&nbsp;the brakes in time. CCTV footage of the incident is now going viral on the internet, recorded from the camera installed in the bus driver’s cabin. The video shows the driver losing control of the bus and ramming it into several cars and bikes ahead.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>The incident took place near a busy Hebbal flyover in Bengaluru. The bus first seems to be crawling slowly in the heavy traffic. But, all of a sudden, the bus goes out of control as the driver tries to apply brakes.</p>

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<p>Soon after, he crashes the bus into four cars and five bikes. The bus comes to a halt after 10 seconds as a car stops horizontally right in front.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjS6KWI_fGHAxXMk68BHbL_Gv0QxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/72-year-old-bengaluru-doctor-strips-on-camera-loses-lakhs-in-video-call-scam-749470" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/72-year-old-bengaluru-doctor-strips-on-camera-loses-lakhs-in-video-call-scam-749470&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjS6KWI_fGHAxXMk68BHbL_Gv0QxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">72-year-old Bengaluru doctor strips on camera, loses lakhs in video call scam</a></strong></p>

<p>The video shows the conductor of the bus rushing to the driver’s seat as he appears to be asking why he is not slamming the brakes.</p>

<p>A bike rider was severely injured in the incident and was&nbsp;rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.</p>

<p>The windshield of the bus was broken in the crash, the video showed.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjS6KWI_fGHAxXMk68BHbL_Gv0QxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/bengaluru-cafe-under-fire-after-phone-found-recording-video-inside-womens-washroom-749048" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/trending/bengaluru-cafe-under-fire-after-phone-found-recording-video-inside-womens-washroom-749048&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjS6KWI_fGHAxXMk68BHbL_Gv0QxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">Bengaluru café under fire after phone found recording video inside women’s washroom</a></strong></p>

<p>Police have launched an investigation into the crash and further details are awaited.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Bengaluru bus crash: A horrifying bus crash in India’s IT city Bengaluru left at least two people severely injured as the bus driver failed to hit the brakes in time.

Bengaluru bus crash: A horrifying bus crash in India’s IT city Bengaluru left at least two people severely injured as the bus driver failed to hit the brakes in time. CCTV footage of the incident is now going viral on the internet, recorded from the camera installed in the bus driver’s cabin. The video shows the driver losing control of the bus and ramming it into several cars and bikes ahead. What happened? The incident took place near a busy Hebbal flyover in Bengaluru. The bus first seems to be crawling slowly in the heavy traffic. But, all of a sudden, the bus goes out of control as the driver tries to apply brakes. × Soon after, he crashes the bus into four cars and five bikes. The bus comes to a halt after 10 seconds as a car stops horizontally right in front. Also read: 72-year-old Bengaluru doctor strips on camera, loses lakhs in video call scam The video shows the conductor of the bus rushing to the driver’s seat as he appears to be asking why he is not slamming the brakes. A bike rider was severely injured in the incident and was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. The windshield of the bus was broken in the crash, the video showed. Also read: Bengaluru café under fire after phone found recording video inside women’s washroom Police have launched an investigation into the crash and further details are awaited. (With inputs from agencies)

Video: ‘Out of control’ bus crashes into cars, bikes on Bengaluru’s Hebbal flyover

<p>India's principal opposition party Congress&nbsp;on Tuesday (August 13)&nbsp;announced that it&nbsp;will launch a nationwide agitation on August 22 over US short-seller Hindenburg's latest report claiming a nexus between the SEBI chairperson and the Adani Group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Congress party is demanding the removal of SEBI chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch following the&nbsp;accusations made by&nbsp;Hindenburg.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Congress leader and former Union minister Jairam Ramesh made the announcement on Tuesday after a meeting of&nbsp;party general secretaries, in-charges, and state chiefs, chaired by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/hindenburg-vs-adani-sebi-chief-madhabis-link-needs-judicial-probe-ex-official-eas-sarma-tells-wion-749745">Hindenburg vs Adani: Sebi chief Madhabi's links need judicial probe, ex-official EAS Sarma tells WION</a></strong></p>

<p>"We had a discussion about one of the biggest scams happening in the country right now: the Hindenburg revelations, the scam related to Adani and SEBI,"&nbsp;Ramesh said.</p>

<p>He also said that the Congress party's leadership unanimously decided to launch agitation&nbsp;by demanding a joint parliamentary committee investigation into the alleged Adani scam.</p>

<p>"We unanimously decided to have nationwide agitation on this issue, demanding two things, one is a JPC inquiry on Adani mega scam in which the Prime Minister is fully involved, and in which the financial market regulation has now been found to have been severely compromised...,"&nbsp;Ramesh added.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Hindenburg vs SEBI Chief Saga: Indian stocks move in caution</strong></p>

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<p>The political furore comes after Hindenburg Research alleged a conflict of interest between India’s stock market regulator SEBI and its chief over fresh instances of financial impropriety tied to the Adani Group.</p>

<p>Hindenburg Research said that whistleblower documents show the SEBI chief and her husband had a stake in obscure offshore entities used in the Adani money syphoning&nbsp; scandal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SEBI chief&nbsp;Buch and her husband have since denied accusations of leniency towards Indian&nbsp;business tycoon Gautam Adani and his group of companies.</p>

<p>In a joint statement, the Buchs described the claims as "baseless allegations and insinuations" devoid of truth.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's principal opposition party Congress on Tuesday (August 13) announced that it will launch a nationwide agitation on August 22 over US short-seller Hindenburg's latest report claiming a nexus between the SEBI chairperson and the Adani Group.

India's principal opposition party Congress on Tuesday (August 13) announced that it will launch a nationwide agitation on August 22 over US short-seller Hindenburg's latest report claiming a nexus between the SEBI chairperson and the Adani Group. The Congress party is demanding the removal of SEBI chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch following the accusations made by Hindenburg. Congress leader and former Union minister Jairam Ramesh made the announcement on Tuesday after a meeting of party general secretaries, in-charges, and state chiefs, chaired by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. Also Read | Hindenburg vs Adani: Sebi chief Madhabi's links need judicial probe, ex-official EAS Sarma tells WION "We had a discussion about one of the biggest scams happening in the country right now: the Hindenburg revelations, the scam related to Adani and SEBI," Ramesh said. He also said that the Congress party's leadership unanimously decided to launch agitation by demanding a joint parliamentary committee investigation into the alleged Adani scam. "We unanimously decided to have nationwide agitation on this issue, demanding two things, one is a JPC inquiry on Adani mega scam in which the Prime Minister is fully involved, and in which the financial market regulation has now been found to have been severely compromised...," Ramesh added. Also watch | Hindenburg vs SEBI Chief Saga: Indian stocks move in caution × The political furore comes after Hindenburg Research alleged a conflict of interest between India’s stock market regulator SEBI and its chief over fresh instances of financial impropriety tied to the Adani Group. Hindenburg Research said that whistleblower documents show the SEBI chief and her husband had a stake in obscure offshore entities used in the Adani money syphoning scandal. SEBI chief Buch and her husband have since denied accusations of leniency towards Indian business tycoon Gautam Adani and his group of companies. In a joint statement, the Buchs described the claims as "baseless allegations and insinuations" devoid of truth. (With inputs from agencies)

Congress to launch nationwide agitation over Hindenburg’s SEBI chief-Adani nexus claim

<p>The flood scare is back in the Indian capital city of New Delhi as the water level in the Yamuna River was expected to breach the danger mark of 204.5 metres on Tuesday&nbsp;(Aug 13) evening. On Tuesday morning, the water level was recorded at 204.35 metres, according to the Central Water Commission (CWC). The CWC said in a statement that the rising level of water was a “steady trend” and asked people to stay alert until the level gets below the danger level.</p>

<p>The statement warned there was a low possibility of a flood&nbsp;in the next few hours.</p>

<p>“Forecasted water level at 5pm on August 13, 2024, is expected to be 204.9m which is above warning level but below danger level,” CWC said in the statement. “...it is advised to keep a watch on the flood until the water level goes down below the warning level,” the statement added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiVvo7i6vGHAxV_L0QIHWyaIqcQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-high-court-grants-protection-from-arrest-to-disgraced-ex-ias-trainee-puja-khedkar-749372" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-high-court-grants-protection-from-arrest-to-disgraced-ex-ias-trainee-puja-khedkar-749372&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiVvo7i6vGHAxV_L0QIHWyaIqcQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Delhi High Court grants protection from arrest to disgraced ex-IAS trainee Puja Khedkar</a></strong></p>

<p>Delhi’s Irrigation and Flood Control Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj was expected to review the preparations by the authorities on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Delhi government has initiated the process of setting up 32 online monitoring stations (OMLS) along the Yamuna and various open drains flowing into it. Palla, ISBT bridge, ITO bridge, Nizamuddin bridge, Okhla Barrage, Najafgarh drain, Metcalf House drain, Khyber Pass drain, and Sweeper Colony drain are some of the locations where these OMLS&nbsp;could be set up.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiVvo7i6vGHAxV_L0QIHWyaIqcQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/historic-sites-in-new-delhi-beyond-for-independence-day-749578" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/videos/historic-sites-in-new-delhi-beyond-for-independence-day-749578&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiVvo7i6vGHAxV_L0QIHWyaIqcQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Historic Sites in New Delhi &amp; Beyond for Independence Day</a></strong></p>

<p>Authorities are hopeful of preventing the flood disaster that struck the national capital the previous monsoon season. On July 13 last year, the water level reached a record 208.66 metres, way above the danger level. The water level rise caused a deluge in key areas surrounding New Delhi including parts of Civil Lines, Mukherjee Nagar, and ITO. A total of 28,000 people were displaced due to the flooding.</p>

<p>To prevent the catastrophe this year, authorities have removed the obstructions in the flow of the river, like the jammed gates of the ITO barrage.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The flood scare is back in the Indian capital city of New Delhi as the water level in the Yamuna River was expected to breach the danger mark of 204.5 metres on Tuesday (Aug 13) evening.

The flood scare is back in the Indian capital city of New Delhi as the water level in the Yamuna River was expected to breach the danger mark of 204.5 metres on Tuesday (Aug 13) evening. On Tuesday morning, the water level was recorded at 204.35 metres, according to the Central Water Commission (CWC). The CWC said in a statement that the rising level of water was a “steady trend” and asked people to stay alert until the level gets below the danger level. The statement warned there was a low possibility of a flood in the next few hours. “Forecasted water level at 5pm on August 13, 2024, is expected to be 204.9m which is above warning level but below danger level,” CWC said in the statement. “...it is advised to keep a watch on the flood until the water level goes down below the warning level,” the statement added. Also read: Delhi High Court grants protection from arrest to disgraced ex-IAS trainee Puja Khedkar Delhi’s Irrigation and Flood Control Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj was expected to review the preparations by the authorities on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Delhi government has initiated the process of setting up 32 online monitoring stations (OMLS) along the Yamuna and various open drains flowing into it. Palla, ISBT bridge, ITO bridge, Nizamuddin bridge, Okhla Barrage, Najafgarh drain, Metcalf House drain, Khyber Pass drain, and Sweeper Colony drain are some of the locations where these OMLS could be set up. Also read: Historic Sites in New Delhi & Beyond for Independence Day Authorities are hopeful of preventing the flood disaster that struck the national capital the previous monsoon season. On July 13 last year, the water level reached a record 208.66 metres, way above the danger level. The water level rise caused a deluge in key areas surrounding New Delhi including parts of Civil Lines, Mukherjee Nagar, and ITO. A total of 28,000 people were displaced due to the flooding. To prevent the catastrophe this year, authorities have removed the obstructions in the flow of the river, like the jammed gates of the ITO barrage. (With inputs from agencies)

Flood to hit Delhi ‘in few hours’? Yamuna expected to breach danger mark soon

<p>India has seen several high-profile cases, with the latest Hindenburg allegations on SEBI chief Madhabi Puri Buch invoking memories of former ICICI Bank CEO Chanda Kochhar. The similarity in both cases has sent social media on overdrive.</p>

<p>Hindenburg research raised severe claims against SEBI chair Buch and her spouse Dhaval Buch as well. The research house ASO questions the integrity of SEBI's probe into the Adani group's fraud, with Buch's involvement in such funds. That is eerily similar to Chanda Kochhar and her husband, Deepak Kochhar, suspected of irregularities in a 3,000-crore rupee loan to the Videocon group during her time as ICICI Bank CEO.</p>

<p>The similarities don't end there. In 2018, Kochhar stepped down from her role as CEO of ICICI Bank after facing allegations of corruption. With Hindenburg alleging Buch's investment in funds linked to the Adani group's fraud, there is increasing pressure on Buch to resign as SEBI chief.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The other connection between Kochhar and Buch is that the SEBI chief once worked at ICICI Bank as an executive director. Before the dramatic downfall, Kochhar was one of Time magazine's 100 most powerful women in 2015 and Forbes' most powerful women seven times.</p>

<p>These high-profile cases bring several questions to the fore. Should the government try and bridge the gap in regulations to make sure such scenarios don't repeat? Beyond politics, what is important is to keep the confidence in India's regulatory bodies? Will the government initiate a separate probe as the opposition has demanded? Should the SEBI chief hold the position under such a scenario?</p>


India has seen several high-profile cases, with the latest Hindenburg allegations on SEBI chief Madhabi Puri Buch invoking memories of former ICICI Bank CEO Chanda Kochhar.

India has seen several high-profile cases, with the latest Hindenburg allegations on SEBI chief Madhabi Puri Buch invoking memories of former ICICI Bank CEO Chanda Kochhar. The similarity in both cases has sent social media on overdrive. Hindenburg research raised severe claims against SEBI chair Buch and her spouse Dhaval Buch as well. The research house ASO questions the integrity of SEBI's probe into the Adani group's fraud, with Buch's involvement in such funds. That is eerily similar to Chanda Kochhar and her husband, Deepak Kochhar, suspected of irregularities in a 3,000-crore rupee loan to the Videocon group during her time as ICICI Bank CEO. The similarities don't end there. In 2018, Kochhar stepped down from her role as CEO of ICICI Bank after facing allegations of corruption. With Hindenburg alleging Buch's investment in funds linked to the Adani group's fraud, there is increasing pressure on Buch to resign as SEBI chief. The other connection between Kochhar and Buch is that the SEBI chief once worked at ICICI Bank as an executive director. Before the dramatic downfall, Kochhar was one of Time magazine's 100 most powerful women in 2015 and Forbes' most powerful women seven times. These high-profile cases bring several questions to the fore. Should the government try and bridge the gap in regulations to make sure such scenarios don't repeat? Beyond politics, what is important is to keep the confidence in India's regulatory bodies? Will the government initiate a separate probe as the opposition has demanded? Should the SEBI chief hold the position under such a scenario?

Hindenburg allegations on SEBI chief invoke Chandra Kochhar's case

<p>Retail inflation declined to a five-year low of 3.54 per cent in July mainly on account of subdued prices of food items, and base effect, according to official data released on Monday.</p>

<p>The Consumer Price Index (CPI) based retail inflation was 5.08 per cent in June 2024 and 7.44 per cent in July 2023.</p>

<p>Retail inflation slipped below the median target of 4 per cent of the Reserve Bank for the first time since September 2019 when it was at 3.99 per cent. The government has tasked the RBI to ensure inflation remains at 4 per cent with a margin of 2 per cent on either side. Inflation has remained below 6 per cent since September 2023.</p>

<p>According to the data released by the National Statistical Office (NSO), the annual inflation in 'milk and milk products' was 2.99 per cent, 'oils and fats' (-) 1.17, fruits 3.84 per cent, and spices (-) 1.43 per cent.</p>

<p>The rate of price rise was 6.83 per cent in the vegetable basket and 8.14 per cent in 'cereals and products', NSO said.</p>

<p>The CPI Inflation in the food basket was 5.42 per cent in July, down from 9.36 per cent in June, and 11.51 a year ago. Inflation in the 'fuel and light' segment was in negative at 5.48 per cent.</p>

<p>The NSO data further showed that inflation was more than the national average in rural India at 4.1 per cent while in urban areas it was 2.98 per cent.</p>

<p>Among states, the highest inflation was in Bihar at 5.87 per cent and the lowest in Jharkhand at 1.72 per cent.</p>

<p>Commenting on the data, Aditi Nayar, Chief Economist, ICRA said the CPI inflation expectedly witnessed a base-led softening to a 59-month low in July, printing slightly lower than ICRA's estimate for the month.</p>

<p>The food and beverages segment accounted for as much as 146 bps of the 154 bps dip in the headline inflation print between these months, as anticipated, she said.</p>

<p>"The IMD's expectations of above normal rainfall during August-September 2024, amidst the likely development of La Nina conditions at end-August 2024, augurs well for the kharif crops, although ICRA remains watchful of the episodes of heavy rainfall and flooding across some states that could harm the standing crops and impact perishable prices during this period," Nayar added.</p>

<p>The Reserve Bank expects a degree of relief in food inflation from the pick-up in the south-west monsoon and healthy progress in sowing and buffer stocks of cereals continue to be above the norms.</p>

<p>Global food prices also showed signs of easing in July, after registering increases since March 2024.</p>

<p>Assuming a normal monsoon, and taking into account the 4.9 per cent inflation print in the first quarter, the RBI expects the CPI inflation for 2024-25 is projected at 4.5 per cent, with Q2 at 4.4 per cent; Q3 at 4.7 per cent; and Q4 at 4.3 per cent.</p>

<p>The headline CPI inflation edged up to 5.08 per cent in June 2024 due to higher-than-expected food inflation.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Retail inflation declined to a five-year low of 3.54 per cent in July mainly on account of subdued prices of food items, and base effect, according to official data released on Monday.

Retail inflation declined to a five-year low of 3.54 per cent in July mainly on account of subdued prices of food items, and base effect, according to official data released on Monday. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) based retail inflation was 5.08 per cent in June 2024 and 7.44 per cent in July 2023. Retail inflation slipped below the median target of 4 per cent of the Reserve Bank for the first time since September 2019 when it was at 3.99 per cent. The government has tasked the RBI to ensure inflation remains at 4 per cent with a margin of 2 per cent on either side. Inflation has remained below 6 per cent since September 2023. According to the data released by the National Statistical Office (NSO), the annual inflation in 'milk and milk products' was 2.99 per cent, 'oils and fats' (-) 1.17, fruits 3.84 per cent, and spices (-) 1.43 per cent. The rate of price rise was 6.83 per cent in the vegetable basket and 8.14 per cent in 'cereals and products', NSO said. The CPI Inflation in the food basket was 5.42 per cent in July, down from 9.36 per cent in June, and 11.51 a year ago. Inflation in the 'fuel and light' segment was in negative at 5.48 per cent. The NSO data further showed that inflation was more than the national average in rural India at 4.1 per cent while in urban areas it was 2.98 per cent. Among states, the highest inflation was in Bihar at 5.87 per cent and the lowest in Jharkhand at 1.72 per cent. Commenting on the data, Aditi Nayar, Chief Economist, ICRA said the CPI inflation expectedly witnessed a base-led softening to a 59-month low in July, printing slightly lower than ICRA's estimate for the month. The food and beverages segment accounted for as much as 146 bps of the 154 bps dip in the headline inflation print between these months, as anticipated, she said. "The IMD's expectations of above normal rainfall during August-September 2024, amidst the likely development of La Nina conditions at end-August 2024, augurs well for the kharif crops, although ICRA remains watchful of the episodes of heavy rainfall and flooding across some states that could harm the standing crops and impact perishable prices during this period," Nayar added. The Reserve Bank expects a degree of relief in food inflation from the pick-up in the south-west monsoon and healthy progress in sowing and buffer stocks of cereals continue to be above the norms. Global food prices also showed signs of easing in July, after registering increases since March 2024. Assuming a normal monsoon, and taking into account the 4.9 per cent inflation print in the first quarter, the RBI expects the CPI inflation for 2024-25 is projected at 4.5 per cent, with Q2 at 4.4 per cent; Q3 at 4.7 per cent; and Q4 at 4.3 per cent. The headline CPI inflation edged up to 5.08 per cent in June 2024 due to higher-than-expected food inflation. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India: Retail inflation slips to five-year low of 3.54 per cent

<p>Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir are carrying out massive search operations in three districts: Anantnag, Kishtwar and Udhampur of the union territory. The first operation that started on August 10 in South Kashmir's Kokernag area of Anantnag district continues on the third day. Two Indian Army soldiers along with a civilian were killed in that operation.</p>

<p>Jammu and Kashmir's Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha laid a wreath and paid homage to the two Indian Army soldiers, identified as Havaldar Dipak Kumar Yadav and LNk Parveen Sharma, who laid down their lives during an anti-terror operation in Anantnag.&nbsp;<br />
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“I salute the indomitable courage of our Bravehearts, who made supreme sacrifice for the nation. Their valour and sacrifice will never be forgotten. The entire nation stands firmly with the families of the martyrs in this hour of grief,” the LG said. &nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rain-wreaks-havoc-in-north-india-amarnath-yatra-halted-in-jammu-kashmir-749279"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Rain wreaks havoc in North India; Amarnath Yatra halted in Jammu &amp; Kashmir</strong></a></p>

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<p>The second operation started on Sunday (Aug 11) in the Kishtwar area of Jammu region. Security forces said that a brief exchange of fire took place between terrorists and security forces in the Kishtwar Police Station area. After that, a massive search operation was started and is being carried out on the second day.</p>

<p>The third operation by the Indian Army, Jammu Kashmir Police and paramilitary forces is being carried out in the higher reaches of the Basantgarh area of&nbsp;Udhampur district in Jammu Region.</p>

<p>Security forces said that based on specific intelligence about the presence of terrorists, a joint search operation was launched by security forces in the higher reaches of Basantgarh under the J/D of P/S Basantgarh of Udhampur. Exchange of fire has taken place, and the area has been cordoned off.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-two-indian-army-soldiers-killed-two-civilians-injured-during-kokernag-gunfight-749017"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir: Two Indian army soldiers killed, two civilians injured during Kokernag gunfight</strong></a></p>

<p>"Following specific inputs, contact was re-established with terrorists during dusk hours today at Khaned. Cordon remains intact while searches are being undertaken," said Jammu and Kashmir Police.</p>

<p>The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has been on high alert ahead of the Independence Day celebrations. Security has been beefed up across the areas close to Line of Control and hinterland too.</p>


Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir are carrying out massive search operations in three districts: Anantnag, Kishtwar and Udhampur of the union territory. The first operation that started on August 10 in South Kashmir's Kokernag area of Anantnag district continues on the third day.

Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir are carrying out massive search operations in three districts: Anantnag, Kishtwar and Udhampur of the union territory. The first operation that started on August 10 in South Kashmir's Kokernag area of Anantnag district continues on the third day. Two Indian Army soldiers along with a civilian were killed in that operation. Jammu and Kashmir's Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha laid a wreath and paid homage to the two Indian Army soldiers, identified as Havaldar Dipak Kumar Yadav and LNk Parveen Sharma, who laid down their lives during an anti-terror operation in Anantnag. “I salute the indomitable courage of our Bravehearts, who made supreme sacrifice for the nation. Their valour and sacrifice will never be forgotten. The entire nation stands firmly with the families of the martyrs in this hour of grief,” the LG said. Watch | Rain wreaks havoc in North India; Amarnath Yatra halted in Jammu & Kashmir × The second operation started on Sunday (Aug 11) in the Kishtwar area of Jammu region. Security forces said that a brief exchange of fire took place between terrorists and security forces in the Kishtwar Police Station area. After that, a massive search operation was started and is being carried out on the second day. The third operation by the Indian Army, Jammu Kashmir Police and paramilitary forces is being carried out in the higher reaches of the Basantgarh area of Udhampur district in Jammu Region. Security forces said that based on specific intelligence about the presence of terrorists, a joint search operation was launched by security forces in the higher reaches of Basantgarh under the J/D of P/S Basantgarh of Udhampur. Exchange of fire has taken place, and the area has been cordoned off. Also read | Jammu and Kashmir: Two Indian army soldiers killed, two civilians injured during Kokernag gunfight "Following specific inputs, contact was re-established with terrorists during dusk hours today at Khaned. Cordon remains intact while searches are being undertaken," said Jammu and Kashmir Police. The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has been on high alert ahead of the Independence Day celebrations. Security has been beefed up across the areas close to Line of Control and hinterland too.

India: 3 massive search operations undergoing in 3 districts of Jammu & Kashmir

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<p>Indian opposition leader Shashi Tharoor lamented the destruction and vandalism of a statue meant to commemorate the liberation of Bangladesh. The Indian Army played a massive part in the freedom and creation of&nbsp;Bangladesh in 1971 and the statute depicted the moment Pakistan and its 93,000 soldiers surrendered after the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian MP Shashi Tharoor&nbsp;took to his official social media handles and posted pictures of the statute destroyed by "anti-India vandals".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Sad to see images like this of statues at the 1971 Shaheed Memorial Complex, Mujibnagar, destroyed by anti-India vandals," wrote Tharoor on X (formerly Twitter).&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This follows disgraceful attacks on the Indian cultural centre, temples, and Hindu homes in several places, even as reports came in of Muslim civilians protecting other minority homes and places of worship," the Indian National Congress (INC) leader added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sad to see images like this of statues at the 1971 Shaheed Memorial Complex, Mujibnagar, destroyed by anti-India vandals. This follows disgraceful attacks on the Indian cultural centre, temples and Hindu homes in several places, even as reports came in of Muslim civilians… <a href="https://t.co/FFrftoA81T">pic.twitter.com/FFrftoA81T</a></p>
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/1822830968702750934?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Thiruvananthapuram MP&nbsp;also called upon&nbsp;newly-appointed interim government head Muhammad Yunus to look into the matter and take action.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is essential that @Yunus_Centre and his interim government take urgent steps to restore law &amp; order in the interests of all Bangladeshis, of every faith. India stands with the people of Bangladesh at this turbulent time, but such anarchic excess can never be condoned."</p>

<p>Notably, it was on December 16, 1971, that Lt Gen AAK Niazi, commander of the Pakistan Eastern Command, signed the Instrument of Surrender in the presence of Lt Gen JS Aurora of the Indian Army in Dacca (now Dhaka) that birthed the iconic photo that was chiselled into a statute.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/protests-against-attacks-on-bangladeshi-hindus-rage-on-749273"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Protests against attacks on Bangladeshi Hindus rage on</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Hindus under attack</strong></h2>

<p>The attack on the statute, depicting the Indian Army in a positive light might be closely associated with the anti-India rhetoric that has gained prominence in the light of recent political events in Bangladesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ever since Sheikh Hasina fled the country, leaving her PM post, the minorities have been incessantly targeted, especially the Hindus, who form only 7.5 per cent of the 170 million population.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hasina's ouster came at the end of a massive student protest against a controversial quota policy that reserved high-paying government jobs for relatives of Bangladesh Independence War veterans. However, the protest has now been hijacked and Hindus are being targeted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;</p>


Indian opposition leader Shashi Tharoor lamented the destruction and vandalism of a statue meant to commemorate the liberation of Bangladesh. The Indian Army played a massive part in the freedom and creation of Bangladesh in 1971 and the statute depicted the moment Pakistan and its 93,000 soldiers surrendered after the war.

Indian opposition leader Shashi Tharoor lamented the destruction and vandalism of a statue meant to commemorate the liberation of Bangladesh. The Indian Army played a massive part in the freedom and creation of Bangladesh in 1971 and the statute depicted the moment Pakistan and its 93,000 soldiers surrendered after the war. Indian MP Shashi Tharoor took to his official social media handles and posted pictures of the statute destroyed by "anti-India vandals". "Sad to see images like this of statues at the 1971 Shaheed Memorial Complex, Mujibnagar, destroyed by anti-India vandals," wrote Tharoor on X (formerly Twitter). "This follows disgraceful attacks on the Indian cultural centre, temples, and Hindu homes in several places, even as reports came in of Muslim civilians protecting other minority homes and places of worship," the Indian National Congress (INC) leader added. Sad to see images like this of statues at the 1971 Shaheed Memorial Complex, Mujibnagar, destroyed by anti-India vandals. This follows disgraceful attacks on the Indian cultural centre, temples and Hindu homes in several places, even as reports came in of Muslim civilians… pic.twitter.com/FFrftoA81T — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) August 12, 2024 × The Thiruvananthapuram MP also called upon newly-appointed interim government head Muhammad Yunus to look into the matter and take action. "It is essential that @Yunus_Centre and his interim government take urgent steps to restore law & order in the interests of all Bangladeshis, of every faith. India stands with the people of Bangladesh at this turbulent time, but such anarchic excess can never be condoned." Notably, it was on December 16, 1971, that Lt Gen AAK Niazi, commander of the Pakistan Eastern Command, signed the Instrument of Surrender in the presence of Lt Gen JS Aurora of the Indian Army in Dacca (now Dhaka) that birthed the iconic photo that was chiselled into a statute. Watch | Protests against attacks on Bangladeshi Hindus rage on × Hindus under attack The attack on the statute, depicting the Indian Army in a positive light might be closely associated with the anti-India rhetoric that has gained prominence in the light of recent political events in Bangladesh. Ever since Sheikh Hasina fled the country, leaving her PM post, the minorities have been incessantly targeted, especially the Hindus, who form only 7.5 per cent of the 170 million population. Hasina's ouster came at the end of a massive student protest against a controversial quota policy that reserved high-paying government jobs for relatives of Bangladesh Independence War veterans. However, the protest has now been hijacked and Hindus are being targeted. (With inputs from agencies)

Statue depicting Pakistan Army’s 1971 surrender to India vandalised in Bangladesh

<p>A police officer in the north&nbsp;Indian state of Uttar Pradesh has been suspended after he was caught demanding five kilogrammes of potato as a bribe from a farmer. As it turns out the word "potato" was used as a code for the bribe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident took place in the Kannauj district of the state where sub-inspector Ramkripal Singh, posted at the&nbsp;Bhawalpur Chapunna Chowki under the Saurikh police station demanded the bribe, which was recorded and the audio of the same has since gone viral on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the viral audio, the farmer expresses his inability to fulfil the demand for 'five&nbsp;kg potatoes' made by the police officer and offers two kg instead.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police officer then gets angry and stresses his original demand. The final deal was then struck at three&nbsp;kg.</p>

<p>"In the above case, SI Ramkripal has been suspended with immediate effect on 07.08.2024 by Superintendent of Police, Kannauj after being found guilty prima facie. He has been suspended with immediate effect. Departmental proceedings have been initiated."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">UP Not for beginners<br />
In Kannauj, a cop asked for ‘5 Kg Aloo’ as a bribe. The other person expressed inability to give &amp; said he could afford only 2 Kgs. The Deal was settled at 3 Kgs. The Cop has been suspended, ACP Kannauj says that Aloo was being used as a Code word. <a href="https://t.co/ZBkZFd40O9">pic.twitter.com/ZBkZFd40O9</a></p>
— Tanishq Punjabi (@tanishqq9) <a href="https://twitter.com/tanishqq9/status/1822195414919008658?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Watch | What is unique about India's Agnibaan Rocket with 3-D printed engine?</strong></p>

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<h2><b>'Codeword'</b></h2>

<p>It is unclear what exactly the alleged codeword 'potato' meant but social media sleuths believed it may have been referring to currency units.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"By the way, what is the value of one kg potato, that he used as a Code? Was it Rs. 5000 or 5 lakhs?" asked one netizen, while another added: "Naah, could not be more than a thousand, right!"</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/serial-killer-on-loose-in-indias-bareilly-9-women-murdered-in-identical-way-in-14-months-748403"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Serial killer on loose in India’s Bareilly? Nine women murdered in identical way in 14 months</strong></a></p>

<p>Kannauj SP Amit Kumar Anand announced Singh's suspension while&nbsp;Kamlesh Kumar, circle officer, City, Kannauj, has been assigned the charge to investigate the case.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A police officer in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh has been suspended after he was caught demanding five kilogrammes of potato as a bribe from a farmer.

A police officer in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh has been suspended after he was caught demanding five kilogrammes of potato as a bribe from a farmer. As it turns out the word "potato" was used as a code for the bribe. The incident took place in the Kannauj district of the state where sub-inspector Ramkripal Singh, posted at the Bhawalpur Chapunna Chowki under the Saurikh police station demanded the bribe, which was recorded and the audio of the same has since gone viral on social media. In the viral audio, the farmer expresses his inability to fulfil the demand for 'five kg potatoes' made by the police officer and offers two kg instead. The police officer then gets angry and stresses his original demand. The final deal was then struck at three kg. "In the above case, SI Ramkripal has been suspended with immediate effect on 07.08.2024 by Superintendent of Police, Kannauj after being found guilty prima facie. He has been suspended with immediate effect. Departmental proceedings have been initiated." UP Not for beginners In Kannauj, a cop asked for ‘5 Kg Aloo’ as a bribe. The other person expressed inability to give & said he could afford only 2 Kgs. The Deal was settled at 3 Kgs. The Cop has been suspended, ACP Kannauj says that Aloo was being used as a Code word. pic.twitter.com/ZBkZFd40O9 — Tanishq Punjabi (@tanishqq9) August 10, 2024 × Watch | What is unique about India's Agnibaan Rocket with 3-D printed engine? × 'Codeword' It is unclear what exactly the alleged codeword 'potato' meant but social media sleuths believed it may have been referring to currency units. "By the way, what is the value of one kg potato, that he used as a Code? Was it Rs. 5000 or 5 lakhs?" asked one netizen, while another added: "Naah, could not be more than a thousand, right!" Also read | Serial killer on loose in India’s Bareilly? Nine women murdered in identical way in 14 months Kannauj SP Amit Kumar Anand announced Singh's suspension while Kamlesh Kumar, circle officer, City, Kannauj, has been assigned the charge to investigate the case. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian cop suspended for demanding '5 kg potatoes' as bribe

<p>In a major high-level interaction between India and the Maldives, Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM)&nbsp;Dr S Jaishankar is visiting the South Asian archipelago nation amid months of bilateral unease between the two sides since pro-China President Muhammad Muizzu was elected to power on an 'India Out' plank, a euphemism to the purported exit of a small number of Indian troops stationed in the island nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar met President Muizzu in Malé&nbsp;and accompanied his Maldivian counterpart Moosa Zameer for a site visit to the Greater Malé Connectivity Project, an India-funded $500 million&nbsp;road project currently under construction that aims to link the capital&nbsp;with the islands of Villingli, Gulhifalhu, and Thilafushi in the Maldives. The Greater Malé Connectivity Project is not only the biggest project India is funding in the Maldives but also the biggest infrastructure project in the island nation&nbsp;overall.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-president-thanks-india-for-debt-relief-hopes-for-fta-with-new-delhi-745030">Maldives president thanks India for debt relief, hopes for FTA with New Delhi</a></strong><br />
&nbsp;<br />
"It was a pleasure to meet Dr S Jaishankar today and join him in the official handover of water and sewerage projects in 28 islands of the Maldives," Muizzu said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).</p>

<p>He&nbsp;also thanked the government of India and Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp;Modi for the support provided to the Maldives.</p>

<p>Muizzu said, "I thank the Government of India, especially Prime Minister Narendra Modi for always supporting the Maldives. Our enduring partnership continues to strengthen, bringing our nations closer through cooperation in security, development, and cultural exchange. Together, we build a brighter, more prosperous future for the region."</p>

<p>Following the meeting, the EAM&nbsp;shared a message on X stating, "Privileged to call on President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. Conveyed greetings of PM @NarendraModi. Committed to deepening India-Maldives ties for the benefit of our people and the region."</p>

<p>Jaishankar also virtually inaugurated and handed over the water and sanitation projects that benefit 28 islands of the Maldives.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Indian tourist numbers slump in Maldives</strong></p>

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<p>"This project has brought safe drinking water to so many islands, to 32 islands and introduced sewerage system in 17 islands. I am happy to note that this has directly impacted the lives of 28,000 Maldivians I believe. And under this project, latest technologies have been used to provide clean drinking water and safe sewerage disposal. In addition, the buildings are also equipped with solar energy providing support to the island grids. With a total funding of a USD 110 million, this is the largest climate adaptation implemented in Maldives with international collaboration," Jaishankar said.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Joined Foreign Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/MoosaZameer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoosaZameer</a> and Construction &amp; Infrastructure Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/muththo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@muththo</a> for a site visit to the Greater Malé Connectivity Project.<br />
<br />
The flagship project will enhance connectivity and stimulate the economy. <a href="https://t.co/sC9y1sIyss">pic.twitter.com/sC9y1sIyss</a></p>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1822280514763444260?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier, President Muizzu recognised India consistently being "one of the closest" allies to Maldives. "India has always been one of the closest allies and invaluable partners, facilitating and providing aid whenever Maldives has needed it," acknowledged Muizzu according to a press release issued by the Maldives government.</p>


In a major high-level interaction between India and the Maldives, Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar is visiting the South Asian archipelago nation amid months of bilateral unease between the two sides since pro-China President Muhammad Muizzu was elected to power on an 'India Out' plank, a euphemism to the purported exit of a small number of Indian troops stationed in the island nation.

In a major high-level interaction between India and the Maldives, Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar is visiting the South Asian archipelago nation amid months of bilateral unease between the two sides since pro-China President Muhammad Muizzu was elected to power on an 'India Out' plank, a euphemism to the purported exit of a small number of Indian troops stationed in the island nation. Jaishankar met President Muizzu in Malé and accompanied his Maldivian counterpart Moosa Zameer for a site visit to the Greater Malé Connectivity Project, an India-funded $500 million road project currently under construction that aims to link the capital with the islands of Villingli, Gulhifalhu, and Thilafushi in the Maldives. The Greater Malé Connectivity Project is not only the biggest project India is funding in the Maldives but also the biggest infrastructure project in the island nation overall. Also read | Maldives president thanks India for debt relief, hopes for FTA with New Delhi "It was a pleasure to meet Dr S Jaishankar today and join him in the official handover of water and sewerage projects in 28 islands of the Maldives," Muizzu said in a post on X (formerly Twitter). He also thanked the government of India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the support provided to the Maldives. Muizzu said, "I thank the Government of India, especially Prime Minister Narendra Modi for always supporting the Maldives. Our enduring partnership continues to strengthen, bringing our nations closer through cooperation in security, development, and cultural exchange. Together, we build a brighter, more prosperous future for the region." Following the meeting, the EAM shared a message on X stating, "Privileged to call on President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. Conveyed greetings of PM @NarendraModi. Committed to deepening India-Maldives ties for the benefit of our people and the region." Jaishankar also virtually inaugurated and handed over the water and sanitation projects that benefit 28 islands of the Maldives. Also watch | Indian tourist numbers slump in Maldives × "This project has brought safe drinking water to so many islands, to 32 islands and introduced sewerage system in 17 islands. I am happy to note that this has directly impacted the lives of 28,000 Maldivians I believe. And under this project, latest technologies have been used to provide clean drinking water and safe sewerage disposal. In addition, the buildings are also equipped with solar energy providing support to the island grids. With a total funding of a USD 110 million, this is the largest climate adaptation implemented in Maldives with international collaboration," Jaishankar said. Joined Foreign Minister @MoosaZameer and Construction & Infrastructure Minister @muththo for a site visit to the Greater Malé Connectivity Project. The flagship project will enhance connectivity and stimulate the economy. pic.twitter.com/sC9y1sIyss — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 10, 2024 × Earlier, President Muizzu recognised India consistently being "one of the closest" allies to Maldives. "India has always been one of the closest allies and invaluable partners, facilitating and providing aid whenever Maldives has needed it," acknowledged Muizzu according to a press release issued by the Maldives government.

Jaishankar in Maldives: India delivers drinking water project;  Greater Malé Connectivity Project in focus

<p>Heavy rains have been lashing the Indian capital city of Delhi over the past weeks, unsafe buildings are collapsing like a house of cards and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is still sitting on a city-wide survey. On Saturday&nbsp;(Aug 10) afternoon, a two-storey house came crashing down in Delhi’s Model Town area after heavy rain.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: NDRF team arrives at Mahendra Enclave of Model Town area where a building had collapsed. Some people are feared trapped. Details awaited <a href="https://t.co/YQBdi7QcaG">pic.twitter.com/YQBdi7QcaG</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1822242305899639004?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Three fire tenders were rushed to the scene and teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Delhi Fire Service were carrying out the rescue operation. The collapsed house was being repaired at the time of the accident.</p>

<p>As per reports, one person is feared dead in the incident whereas several others are admitted to the hospital in critical condition.</p>

<h2><strong>Series of building collapses in Delhi</strong></h2>

<p>The last two weeks have witnessed a series of building collapses in the capital city. On July 31, a building collapsed in North Delhi’s Sabzi Mandi area.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjpwtLzz-qHAxVZmq8BHeL-CjoQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-vs-delhi-lt-governor-supreme-court-upholds-l-gs-powers-in-mcd-747247" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-vs-delhi-lt-governor-supreme-court-upholds-l-gs-powers-in-mcd-747247&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjpwtLzz-qHAxVZmq8BHeL-CjoQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">AAP vs Delhi Lt Governor: Supreme Court upholds L-G`s powers in MCD</a></strong></p>

<p>On August 1, another building collapsed in the same area. The same day, two more buildings collapsed—one in Defence Colony and two in Shastri Park, causing injuries to three people.</p>

<p>On August 2, a two-storey building in Jahangirpuri collapsed, killing three people. The same day, the wall of a school collapsed in Daryaganj, damaging several parked cars.</p>

<h2><strong>MCD’s slumber continues</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this week, the Indian Express&nbsp;reported that the MCD is yet to complete the survey of the unsafe buildings in the city, raising concerns over the lack of monsoon preparedness.</p>

<p>Notably, MCD’s Building Department is responsible for conducting an annual safety review of buildings. The junior engineers of the MCD generally identify buildings in battered condition and direct the owners of these buildings to carry out repairs.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjpwtLzz-qHAxVZmq8BHeL-CjoQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-coaching-centre-deaths-civic-body-mcd-seals-basements-of-10-institutes-748229" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-coaching-centre-deaths-civic-body-mcd-seals-basements-of-10-institutes-748229&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjpwtLzz-qHAxVZmq8BHeL-CjoQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Delhi coaching centre deaths: Civic body MCD seals basements of 10 institutes</a></strong></p>

<p>The Indian Express reported that the survey was initially slated to be completed by June. The deadline was first shifted to June 14 and then again to July 15.</p>

<p>On Thursday (Aug 8), the MCD said it was able to identify just 67 dangerous buildings so far and the full survey will still take time to get published.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Heavy rains have been lashing the Indian capital city of Delhi over the past weeks, unsafe buildings are collapsing like a house of cards and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is still sitting on a city-wide survey.

Heavy rains have been lashing the Indian capital city of Delhi over the past weeks, unsafe buildings are collapsing like a house of cards and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is still sitting on a city-wide survey. On Saturday (Aug 10) afternoon, a two-storey house came crashing down in Delhi’s Model Town area after heavy rain. #WATCH | Delhi: NDRF team arrives at Mahendra Enclave of Model Town area where a building had collapsed. Some people are feared trapped. Details awaited pic.twitter.com/YQBdi7QcaG — ANI (@ANI) August 10, 2024 × Three fire tenders were rushed to the scene and teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Delhi Fire Service were carrying out the rescue operation. The collapsed house was being repaired at the time of the accident. As per reports, one person is feared dead in the incident whereas several others are admitted to the hospital in critical condition. Series of building collapses in Delhi The last two weeks have witnessed a series of building collapses in the capital city. On July 31, a building collapsed in North Delhi’s Sabzi Mandi area. Also read: AAP vs Delhi Lt Governor: Supreme Court upholds L-G`s powers in MCD On August 1, another building collapsed in the same area. The same day, two more buildings collapsed—one in Defence Colony and two in Shastri Park, causing injuries to three people. On August 2, a two-storey building in Jahangirpuri collapsed, killing three people. The same day, the wall of a school collapsed in Daryaganj, damaging several parked cars. MCD’s slumber continues Earlier this week, the Indian Express reported that the MCD is yet to complete the survey of the unsafe buildings in the city, raising concerns over the lack of monsoon preparedness. Notably, MCD’s Building Department is responsible for conducting an annual safety review of buildings. The junior engineers of the MCD generally identify buildings in battered condition and direct the owners of these buildings to carry out repairs. Also read: Delhi coaching centre deaths: Civic body MCD seals basements of 10 institutes The Indian Express reported that the survey was initially slated to be completed by June. The deadline was first shifted to June 14 and then again to July 15. On Thursday (Aug 8), the MCD said it was able to identify just 67 dangerous buildings so far and the full survey will still take time to get published. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi rains: MCD’s slumber continues as another building collapse claims life

<p>Two Indian Army soldiers were killed and two civilians were injured during an encounter in the Kokernag area in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district. The operation started earlier on Saturday (Aug 10) when terrorists opened fire on security forces injuring three army soldiers and two civilians. Out of the three wounded soldiers, two succumbed to the injuries and one is being treated at the army base hospital in Srinagar.</p>

<p>The Indian Army said that terrorists indiscriminately opened fire resulting in the injury of two civilians who were later taken to a medical facility for treatment. “Two civilians have also been reported injured due to indiscriminate, desperate and reckless firing by terrorists in the ongoing operation; they have been provided immediate medical aid and evacuated further,” said the Indian Army.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwipiYum1eqHAxVFb_UHHY55DAoQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-top-poll-body-to-visit-jk-parties-hopeful-of-announcement-of-election-dates-748033" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-top-poll-body-to-visit-jk-parties-hopeful-of-announcement-of-election-dates-748033&amp;ved=2ahUKEwipiYum1eqHAxVFb_UHHY55DAoQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">India's poll body to visit Jammu and Kashmir, parties hopeful of election dates announcement</a></strong></p>

<p>After the terrorists opened fire on security forces, a massive cordon and search operation was launched by the joint teams of the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Security forces believe that three to four terrorists are hiding in the jungles of the Kokernag area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>More security personnel were deployed to cover all the entry and exit points of the area where the terrorists were held up.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;J&amp;K: Grand revival of film tourism in Kashmir; J&amp;K L-G inaugurates film conclave</strong></p>

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<p>The Indian Army had earlier said: “Based on specific intelligence input, a Joint Operation was launched by #IndianArmy, @JmuKmrPolice &amp; @crpf_srinagar today in general area Kokernag, Anantnag. Contact was established and firefight ensued. Two personnel have been injured and evacuated from the area.”</p>

<p>The operation is underway as of Saturday evening. The lights and additional deployment at the site suggest that security forces might carry out the operation&nbsp;during the night hours too.</p>


Two Indian Army soldiers were killed and two civilians were injured during an encounter in the Kokernag area in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district. The operation started earlier on Saturday (Aug 10) when terrorists opened fire on security forces injuring three army soldiers and two civilians.

Two Indian Army soldiers were killed and two civilians were injured during an encounter in the Kokernag area in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district. The operation started earlier on Saturday (Aug 10) when terrorists opened fire on security forces injuring three army soldiers and two civilians. Out of the three wounded soldiers, two succumbed to the injuries and one is being treated at the army base hospital in Srinagar. The Indian Army said that terrorists indiscriminately opened fire resulting in the injury of two civilians who were later taken to a medical facility for treatment. “Two civilians have also been reported injured due to indiscriminate, desperate and reckless firing by terrorists in the ongoing operation; they have been provided immediate medical aid and evacuated further,” said the Indian Army. Also read: India's poll body to visit Jammu and Kashmir, parties hopeful of election dates announcement After the terrorists opened fire on security forces, a massive cordon and search operation was launched by the joint teams of the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Security forces believe that three to four terrorists are hiding in the jungles of the Kokernag area. More security personnel were deployed to cover all the entry and exit points of the area where the terrorists were held up. Watch: J&K: Grand revival of film tourism in Kashmir; J&K L-G inaugurates film conclave × The Indian Army had earlier said: “Based on specific intelligence input, a Joint Operation was launched by #IndianArmy, @JmuKmrPolice & @crpf_srinagar today in general area Kokernag, Anantnag. Contact was established and firefight ensued. Two personnel have been injured and evacuated from the area.” The operation is underway as of Saturday evening. The lights and additional deployment at the site suggest that security forces might carry out the operation during the night hours too.

Jammu and Kashmir: Two Indian army soldiers killed, two civilians injured during Kokernag gunfight

<p>The post-mortem of a female trainee doctor found dead at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in the Indian city of&nbsp;Kolkata has confirmed that she was sexually assaulted before being murdered, media reports said while citing a senior police official on Saturday (August 10).</p>

<p>The 31-year-old, a second-year post-graduate medical student, was last seen studying in the seminar hall on the third floor of the state-run hospital late Thursday (August 8) night. She was discovered unconscious the following morning.</p>

<p>Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Kumar Goyal confirmed that a case of rape and murder has been registered, and one person has been arrested in connection with the crime.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A board of three doctors conducted the post-mortem examination, which was fully documented through videography. Students and family members were present as witnesses during the proceedings," Goyal said.</p>

<p>Goyal further added that the post-mortem revealed signs of sexual assault, with injuries found on the victim's private parts, face, lips, neck, stomach, fingers, and ankle. "For us, he is the criminal of the highest order. We will ensure he receives the strictest punishment," he&nbsp;said, adding that the police have "strong" evidence against the suspect.</p>

<p>The arrested individual is reportedly an outsider with unrestricted access to various hospital departments.</p>

<p>In response to the incident, junior doctors across West Bengal staged protests on Saturday (August 10) and demanded exemplary punishment for those involved.</p>

<p>West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee condemned the incident as "unfortunate and despicable," while addressing the anger among the victim's colleagues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to a local TV channel, Banerjee assured that the case would be taken to a fast-track court and the accused would face the harshest possible punishment, including the death penalty if necessary. "I spoke to the victim's family and assured them of proper action," she said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-on-boil-after-alleged-rape-of-12-year-old-jewish-girl-733763">France on boil after alleged rape of 12-year-old Jewish girl</a></strong></p>

<p>Banerjee also appealed to the protesting doctors to ensure patient care is not compromised during their demonstrations.</p>

<p>Leader of the Opposition&nbsp;in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader&nbsp;Suvendu Adhikari has called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the case. He raised concerns over the mysterious circumstances surrounding the trainee doctor's death and slammed the state government's handling of the investigation.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gaza crisis: 'Violence, sexual assault' in Israeli prisons</strong></p>

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<p>Adhikari took to&nbsp;X (formerly Twitter) and said, "The body of the second-year postgraduate student at RG Kar Medical College was found with injury marks. Unconfirmed reports suggest signs of strangulation and traces of seminal fluid. This appears to be a clear case of murder, possibly involving rape. The case should be immediately transferred to the CBI."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The post-mortem of a female trainee doctor found dead at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in the Indian city of Kolkata has confirmed that she was sexually assaulted before being murdered, media reports said while citing a senior police official on Saturday (August 10).

The post-mortem of a female trainee doctor found dead at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in the Indian city of Kolkata has confirmed that she was sexually assaulted before being murdered, media reports said while citing a senior police official on Saturday (August 10). The 31-year-old, a second-year post-graduate medical student, was last seen studying in the seminar hall on the third floor of the state-run hospital late Thursday (August 8) night. She was discovered unconscious the following morning. Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Kumar Goyal confirmed that a case of rape and murder has been registered, and one person has been arrested in connection with the crime. "A board of three doctors conducted the post-mortem examination, which was fully documented through videography. Students and family members were present as witnesses during the proceedings," Goyal said. Goyal further added that the post-mortem revealed signs of sexual assault, with injuries found on the victim's private parts, face, lips, neck, stomach, fingers, and ankle. "For us, he is the criminal of the highest order. We will ensure he receives the strictest punishment," he said, adding that the police have "strong" evidence against the suspect. The arrested individual is reportedly an outsider with unrestricted access to various hospital departments. In response to the incident, junior doctors across West Bengal staged protests on Saturday (August 10) and demanded exemplary punishment for those involved. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee condemned the incident as "unfortunate and despicable," while addressing the anger among the victim's colleagues. Speaking to a local TV channel, Banerjee assured that the case would be taken to a fast-track court and the accused would face the harshest possible punishment, including the death penalty if necessary. "I spoke to the victim's family and assured them of proper action," she said. Also read | France on boil after alleged rape of 12-year-old Jewish girl Banerjee also appealed to the protesting doctors to ensure patient care is not compromised during their demonstrations. Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Suvendu Adhikari has called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the case. He raised concerns over the mysterious circumstances surrounding the trainee doctor's death and slammed the state government's handling of the investigation. Also watch | Gaza crisis: 'Violence, sexual assault' in Israeli prisons × Adhikari took to X (formerly Twitter) and said, "The body of the second-year postgraduate student at RG Kar Medical College was found with injury marks. Unconfirmed reports suggest signs of strangulation and traces of seminal fluid. This appears to be a clear case of murder, possibly involving rape. The case should be immediately transferred to the CBI." (With inputs from agencies)

Kolkata trainee doctor sexually assaulted, murdered; CM Mamata Banerjee promises strict action

<p>In a major&nbsp;breakthrough, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Indore has developed innovative footwear for the Indian armed forces called Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG) which can not only generate electricity with every step but also provide real-time location tracking.</p>

<p>IIT Indore delivered ten pairs of TENG shoes to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Tuesday (Aug 6). The high-tech shoes are equipped with sophisticated tracking technology, including RFID and a satellite-based GPS module for live location tracking.</p>

<p>Professor Suhas Joshi, the director of IIT Indore, has said that these shoes are expected to significantly enhance the safety, coordination, and operational efficiency of Indian Army personnel.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/100-years-for-a-green-card-indian-engineer-warns-students-dont-come-to-us-748737">100 years for a green card? Indian engineer warns students, ‘Don’t come to US'</a></strong></p>

<p>The shoes were developed under the guidance of Professor IA Palani, harnessing the Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG) technology. The TENG technology converts the mechanical energy generated from shoes by walking into electricity, which is then stored in a device embedded in the shoe’s soles.</p>

<p>The stored energy in shoes’ soles can power small electronic devices, providing a portable and renewable energy source for soldiers in the field.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The shoes are also equipped with GPS and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, which will allow real-time tracking of military personnel, which can enhance strategic coordination and ensure the safety of soldiers during operations.</p>

<h2><strong>Broad application of high-tech shoes</strong></h2>

<p>There are several broad potential applications of these TENG-powered shoes that extend beyond military use. Like for families with elderly members, especially those with Alzheimer's disease, the shoes offer peace of mind through reliable location tracking. Working parents can monitor their children's whereabouts throughout the school day, and schools can use RFID technology to maintain accurate attendance records. In industrial settings, the shoes are useful for attendance tracking and worker monitoring.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/crisis-in-bangladesh-sri-lanka-pakistan-whats-going-on-with-indias-neighbours-748674">Crisis in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan: What's going on with India's neighbours?</a></strong></p>

<p>Athletes can also use these shoes to analyse foot movements, which can help improve performance and training techniques. For trekkers and mountaineers, these shoes can provide reliable tracking during expeditions with their self-powered GPS feature, ensuring safety and efficient navigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The development of such advanced footwear is a significant step forward for the Indian armed forces, placing them on par with other technologically advanced military forces around the world. Similar initiatives have been undertaken by countries like the United States and China, where research and development in wearable technology for military applications have been ongoing.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a major breakthrough, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Indore has developed innovative footwear for the Indian armed forces called Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG) which can not only generate electricity with every step but also provide real-time location tracking.

In a major breakthrough, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Indore has developed innovative footwear for the Indian armed forces called Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG) which can not only generate electricity with every step but also provide real-time location tracking. IIT Indore delivered ten pairs of TENG shoes to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Tuesday (Aug 6). The high-tech shoes are equipped with sophisticated tracking technology, including RFID and a satellite-based GPS module for live location tracking. Professor Suhas Joshi, the director of IIT Indore, has said that these shoes are expected to significantly enhance the safety, coordination, and operational efficiency of Indian Army personnel. Also Read | 100 years for a green card? Indian engineer warns students, ‘Don’t come to US' The shoes were developed under the guidance of Professor IA Palani, harnessing the Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG) technology. The TENG technology converts the mechanical energy generated from shoes by walking into electricity, which is then stored in a device embedded in the shoe’s soles. The stored energy in shoes’ soles can power small electronic devices, providing a portable and renewable energy source for soldiers in the field. The shoes are also equipped with GPS and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, which will allow real-time tracking of military personnel, which can enhance strategic coordination and ensure the safety of soldiers during operations. Broad application of high-tech shoes There are several broad potential applications of these TENG-powered shoes that extend beyond military use. Like for families with elderly members, especially those with Alzheimer's disease, the shoes offer peace of mind through reliable location tracking. Working parents can monitor their children's whereabouts throughout the school day, and schools can use RFID technology to maintain accurate attendance records. In industrial settings, the shoes are useful for attendance tracking and worker monitoring. Also Read | Crisis in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan: What's going on with India's neighbours? Athletes can also use these shoes to analyse foot movements, which can help improve performance and training techniques. For trekkers and mountaineers, these shoes can provide reliable tracking during expeditions with their self-powered GPS feature, ensuring safety and efficient navigation. The development of such advanced footwear is a significant step forward for the Indian armed forces, placing them on par with other technologically advanced military forces around the world. Similar initiatives have been undertaken by countries like the United States and China, where research and development in wearable technology for military applications have been ongoing. (With inputs from agencies)

IIT Indore designs high-tech shoes for Indian armed forces that generate electricity with each step

<p>Three slips, a gully, a forward short leg, a backward short leg and a silly point! For cricket-loving South Asia, in which even mountainous laggard Nepal has officially risen to the highest levels of competition, the sport left by British colonial masters is a matter of both love and habit now.</p>

<p>It also turns out to be a good metaphor to explain many things, including foreign policy. Imagine India as a batsman now, and the close fielding set-up described above as one in which the player at the crease is surrounded by alert opponents ready to pounce and take a catch. From all signs, India's diplomatic situation in South Asia resembles a tough pitch in which it is difficult to score runs, surrounded as it is by neighbours who are not necessarily friends.</p>

<p>Let's take a closer look, especially after the fearful flight of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to New&nbsp;Delhi amid frenzied mobs staging a chaotic, revolutionary overthrow of an elected leader. Bangladesh seemed the only side of the subcontinent India could somewhat take for granted but turned turtle overnight -- and the problem could well lie in the fact that India's foreign policy crafters had taken things for granted because of the role India's army had played in carving the country out of the former East Pakistan.</p>

<p>A friendly leader is not necessarily the equivalent of a friendly state or friendly nation, and that is what the disruptive events at Dhaka show.</p>

<p>China is no cricket-playing nation, but, if critics are to be believed, has had a hand in overthrowing the regime in Dhaka. My own view is that no upsurge of the kind we are witnessing in Bangladesh can be easily explained away by a conspiracy theory or two. But rest assured, the mandarins in Beijing are at work to increase their influence in Asia and beyond.</p>

<p>Consider the Maldives next. Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar is off for a three-day official visit to the archipelago to talk business with President Mohamed Muizzu, who is certainly pro-China from all indications.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maldives, in the smartest tradition of playing foreign policy games, is a small neighbour trying to get the best out of giant regional powers. The External Affairs Ministry, exhibiting a fancy for Hindi-sounding acronyms that has become a familiar style for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BJP government, says that Maldives is a key maritime neighbour in India's Neighbourhood First policy and the vision for SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region).&nbsp;</p>

<p>That plays well on the Hindi word for ocean, but a hard look at recent developments shows that India's policy in the blue ocean may be all at sea. Not only did Muizzu storm to power on a plank hostile to India, he also demanded that Indian military personnel leave his country soon after he assumed office.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka, not so far away, seems to have a somewhat India-friendly president in Ranil Wickremesinghe, who was installed after a popular upsurge in 2022 against Mahinda Rajapaksa's strongman government.</p>

<p>But news this week that Namal Rajapaksa, the 38-year-old son of the deposed Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna leader will run for presidential elections marks an end to the uneasy support the party offered for Wickremesinghe of the United National Party. The Rajapaksas have historically been pro-China.</p>

<p>There is a huge and ever-present China challenge for India in dealing with Sri Lanka apart from other issues like troubles for India's fishermen. If the elections on&nbsp;September&nbsp;21 bring back the Rajapaksas, tensions may rise.</p>

<p>China's involvement in Sri Lanka includes a trade surplus, economic aid, oil exploration, investments, and support for Colombo in dealing with human rights issues after its crackdown on Tamil separatists in the north and east. This legacy will remain irrespective of which party comes to power.</p>

<p>China expert Mohan Malik has described Beijing's increasing influence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region as one that involves "encirclement, entanglement and envelopment" – broadly/respectively corresponding to military/diplomatic influence, exploitation of chinks in domestic politics and use of economic incentives.</p>

<p>Beyond Sri Lanka and Maldives, there is Myanmar, whose military rulers are unambiguously close to China in diplomacy, economic affairs and smothering liberal democracy.</p>

<p>You could simply add a ditto for Pakistan, which is officially a democracy but in effect under the strong influence of its military and intelligence establishment that acts like a state within a state.</p>

<p>The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project involves the construction of a 3,000-km infrastructure network spanning land and sea as part of Beijing's larger Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).</p>

<p>Launched in 2015 when Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was in power in Islamabad with 51 agreements, its cost is estimated at $62 billion. With Sharif's younger brother Shahbaz taking his place in a comeback for the political dynasty, China appears stronger placed. The CPEC also involves segments in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), and that is enough to keep India concerned, apart from China's illegal encroachment into India's Ladakh region in 2020.</p>

<p>Recent terror attacks in Jammu show that for all the tall claims made about bringing peace and democracy back to Jammu and Kashmir, the Modi government has miles to go in the region disputed by Pakistan. Dealing with a Pakistan-China axis in the north is a huge challenge in itself.</p>

<p>Nepal has been relatively stable for India, but its historic ties with Beijing, north of its national pride, Mount Everest, is an ever-present factor. Things seemed to look up in June when Nepal's Maoist Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' attended Modi's swearing-in ceremony after the general elections in India. Prachanda lost power soon thereafter in Nepal's parliament.</p>

<p>His successor K.P. Sharma Oli has sounded equally optimistic about ties with India. But irritants kept cropping up. Weeks before the two leaders made friendly noises, a boundary dispute cropped up when Kathmandu announced a new currency note featuring a map of Nepal that showed about 335 km of Indian territory as part of Nepal.</p>

<p>Bhutan has a longstanding border dispute with China, but Beijing has been making noises against Indian support to the mountain state as "interference". If you think all that is part of China's "encirclement" nudge, you are bound to find support in diplomatic conversations.</p>

<p>The big question is: Is India's "Look East" policy that charms Japan and Australia, or its "Vishwaguru" (global guru) stature that sends vaccines to Africa missing bigger opportunities and challenges in its own backyard? More importantly, whether it is the Ukraine war or Israel's attacks on Gaza, the Modi government has shown some audacity in foreign policy positions that add to potential troubles in its neighbourhood.</p>

<p>In cricketing terms, it seems the Modi government is too busy playing its natural strokes that it overlooks field positions. As they say in cricket, on a difficult pitch, you play defensive shots.</p>

<p>The Bangladesh crisis is a wake-up call for India to find the right balance between reckless sovereignty and smart alliances. It is time to switch from self-loving rhetoric and fancy acronyms to some down-to-earth diplomacy. It pays to be old-fashioned without being ancient.</p>

<p><em><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)&nbsp;</strong></em></p>


Three slips, a gully, a forward short leg, a backward short leg and a silly point! For cricket-loving South Asia, in which even mountainous laggard Nepal has officially risen to the highest levels of competition, the sport left by British colonial masters is a matter of both love and habit now.

Three slips, a gully, a forward short leg, a backward short leg and a silly point! For cricket-loving South Asia, in which even mountainous laggard Nepal has officially risen to the highest levels of competition, the sport left by British colonial masters is a matter of both love and habit now. It also turns out to be a good metaphor to explain many things, including foreign policy. Imagine India as a batsman now, and the close fielding set-up described above as one in which the player at the crease is surrounded by alert opponents ready to pounce and take a catch. From all signs, India's diplomatic situation in South Asia resembles a tough pitch in which it is difficult to score runs, surrounded as it is by neighbours who are not necessarily friends. Let's take a closer look, especially after the fearful flight of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to New Delhi amid frenzied mobs staging a chaotic, revolutionary overthrow of an elected leader. Bangladesh seemed the only side of the subcontinent India could somewhat take for granted but turned turtle overnight -- and the problem could well lie in the fact that India's foreign policy crafters had taken things for granted because of the role India's army had played in carving the country out of the former East Pakistan. A friendly leader is not necessarily the equivalent of a friendly state or friendly nation, and that is what the disruptive events at Dhaka show. China is no cricket-playing nation, but, if critics are to be believed, has had a hand in overthrowing the regime in Dhaka. My own view is that no upsurge of the kind we are witnessing in Bangladesh can be easily explained away by a conspiracy theory or two. But rest assured, the mandarins in Beijing are at work to increase their influence in Asia and beyond. Consider the Maldives next. Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar is off for a three-day official visit to the archipelago to talk business with President Mohamed Muizzu, who is certainly pro-China from all indications. Maldives, in the smartest tradition of playing foreign policy games, is a small neighbour trying to get the best out of giant regional powers. The External Affairs Ministry, exhibiting a fancy for Hindi-sounding acronyms that has become a familiar style for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BJP government, says that Maldives is a key maritime neighbour in India's Neighbourhood First policy and the vision for SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region). That plays well on the Hindi word for ocean, but a hard look at recent developments shows that India's policy in the blue ocean may be all at sea. Not only did Muizzu storm to power on a plank hostile to India, he also demanded that Indian military personnel leave his country soon after he assumed office. Sri Lanka, not so far away, seems to have a somewhat India-friendly president in Ranil Wickremesinghe, who was installed after a popular upsurge in 2022 against Mahinda Rajapaksa's strongman government. But news this week that Namal Rajapaksa, the 38-year-old son of the deposed Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna leader will run for presidential elections marks an end to the uneasy support the party offered for Wickremesinghe of the United National Party. The Rajapaksas have historically been pro-China. There is a huge and ever-present China challenge for India in dealing with Sri Lanka apart from other issues like troubles for India's fishermen. If the elections on September 21 bring back the Rajapaksas, tensions may rise. China's involvement in Sri Lanka includes a trade surplus, economic aid, oil exploration, investments, and support for Colombo in dealing with human rights issues after its crackdown on Tamil separatists in the north and east. This legacy will remain irrespective of which party comes to power. China expert Mohan Malik has described Beijing's increasing influence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region as one that involves "encirclement, entanglement and envelopment" – broadly/respectively corresponding to military/diplomatic influence, exploitation of chinks in domestic politics and use of economic incentives. Beyond Sri Lanka and Maldives, there is Myanmar, whose military rulers are unambiguously close to China in diplomacy, economic affairs and smothering liberal democracy. You could simply add a ditto for Pakistan, which is officially a democracy but in effect under the strong influence of its military and intelligence establishment that acts like a state within a state. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project involves the construction of a 3,000-km infrastructure network spanning land and sea as part of Beijing's larger Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Launched in 2015 when Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was in power in Islamabad with 51 agreements, its cost is estimated at $62 billion. With Sharif's younger brother Shahbaz taking his place in a comeback for the political dynasty, China appears stronger placed. The CPEC also involves segments in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), and that is enough to keep India concerned, apart from China's illegal encroachment into India's Ladakh region in 2020. Recent terror attacks in Jammu show that for all the tall claims made about bringing peace and democracy back to Jammu and Kashmir, the Modi government has miles to go in the region disputed by Pakistan. Dealing with a Pakistan-China axis in the north is a huge challenge in itself. Nepal has been relatively stable for India, but its historic ties with Beijing, north of its national pride, Mount Everest, is an ever-present factor. Things seemed to look up in June when Nepal's Maoist Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' attended Modi's swearing-in ceremony after the general elections in India. Prachanda lost power soon thereafter in Nepal's parliament. His successor K.P. Sharma Oli has sounded equally optimistic about ties with India. But irritants kept cropping up. Weeks before the two leaders made friendly noises, a boundary dispute cropped up when Kathmandu announced a new currency note featuring a map of Nepal that showed about 335 km of Indian territory as part of Nepal. Bhutan has a longstanding border dispute with China, but Beijing has been making noises against Indian support to the mountain state as "interference". If you think all that is part of China's "encirclement" nudge, you are bound to find support in diplomatic conversations. The big question is: Is India's "Look East" policy that charms Japan and Australia, or its "Vishwaguru" (global guru) stature that sends vaccines to Africa missing bigger opportunities and challenges in its own backyard? More importantly, whether it is the Ukraine war or Israel's attacks on Gaza, the Modi government has shown some audacity in foreign policy positions that add to potential troubles in its neighbourhood. In cricketing terms, it seems the Modi government is too busy playing its natural strokes that it overlooks field positions. As they say in cricket, on a difficult pitch, you play defensive shots. The Bangladesh crisis is a wake-up call for India to find the right balance between reckless sovereignty and smart alliances. It is time to switch from self-loving rhetoric and fancy acronyms to some down-to-earth diplomacy. It pays to be old-fashioned without being ancient. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Chinks in diplomatic armour: Why the Bangladesh crisis is a wake-up call for encircled India

<p>A serial killer might be on the loose in the Bareilly district of northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh after nine women have been killed over the past 14 months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The murders, conducted in identical manner, have transpired across a 25 km rural patch in the area - putting the residents and the law and order agencies on red alert.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Modus operandi of murders</strong></h2>

<p>The victims are aged between 45 and 55 and have been found strangled in the fields around noon with their clothes dishevelled. However, there has been no sign of sexual assault so far. Interestingly, most of the victims were choked to death using the sarees they were wearing.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, the first murder took place in June last year and by November the kill count had risen to eight. The government hierarchy panicked and sent 300 policemen, divided into 14 teams of uniformed and plain cloth officials. Subsequently,&nbsp;three suspects were arrested but the murders continued.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the November murder, there was a hiatus of seven months before the killer came out of hibernation by butchering a 45-year-old woman at a sugarcane farm in the Shahi Sheeshgarh area on July 3.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The victim has been identified as Anita, a resident of&nbsp;Bhujiya Jagir village in Shergarh. She had gone to her maternal in Fatehganj's Khirka village when she met her end.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kenyan-serial-killer-kills-42-women-including-wife-dumps-their-bodies-at-a-quarry-741373"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Kenyan serial killer kills 42 women including wife &amp; dumps their bodies at a quarry</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kenyan-serial-killer-kills-42-women-including-wife-dumps-their-bodies-at-a-quarry-741373/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>What are the authorities saying?</strong></h2>

<p>Uttar Pradesh DGP Prashant Kumar informed that the police had been investigating the case for six months and recently released a sketch of three suspects.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Our teams have been investigating this case for six months and have not ruled out the possibility of a serial killer due to the nearly identical modus operandi behind the murders. Based on some leads, we have now released sketches of three suspects,"&nbsp;Kumar told <em>TOI</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/trending/top-10-countries-with-most-documented-serial-killers-1688822387792"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Top 10 Countries with Most Documented Serial Killers</strong></a></p>

<p>Bareilly Superintendent of Police (SSP) Anurag Arya said the department had expanded its scope of the investigations. Officials are now scrutinising details of prisoners recently released or on bail.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The pattern is clear, strangulation around noon, bodies dumped in farms, and post-mortem ruling out sexual assault. Our investigations, including electronic surveillance, have hit a dead end," said Arya.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A serial killer might be on the loose in the Bareilly district of northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh after nine women have been killed over the past 14 months.

A serial killer might be on the loose in the Bareilly district of northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh after nine women have been killed over the past 14 months. The murders, conducted in identical manner, have transpired across a 25 km rural patch in the area - putting the residents and the law and order agencies on red alert. Modus operandi of murders The victims are aged between 45 and 55 and have been found strangled in the fields around noon with their clothes dishevelled. However, there has been no sign of sexual assault so far. Interestingly, most of the victims were choked to death using the sarees they were wearing. According to reports, the first murder took place in June last year and by November the kill count had risen to eight. The government hierarchy panicked and sent 300 policemen, divided into 14 teams of uniformed and plain cloth officials. Subsequently, three suspects were arrested but the murders continued. After the November murder, there was a hiatus of seven months before the killer came out of hibernation by butchering a 45-year-old woman at a sugarcane farm in the Shahi Sheeshgarh area on July 3. The victim has been identified as Anita, a resident of Bhujiya Jagir village in Shergarh. She had gone to her maternal in Fatehganj's Khirka village when she met her end. Watch | Kenyan serial killer kills 42 women including wife & dumps their bodies at a quarry What are the authorities saying? Uttar Pradesh DGP Prashant Kumar informed that the police had been investigating the case for six months and recently released a sketch of three suspects. “Our teams have been investigating this case for six months and have not ruled out the possibility of a serial killer due to the nearly identical modus operandi behind the murders. Based on some leads, we have now released sketches of three suspects," Kumar told TOI. Also read | Top 10 Countries with Most Documented Serial Killers Bareilly Superintendent of Police (SSP) Anurag Arya said the department had expanded its scope of the investigations. Officials are now scrutinising details of prisoners recently released or on bail. “The pattern is clear, strangulation around noon, bodies dumped in farms, and post-mortem ruling out sexual assault. Our investigations, including electronic surveillance, have hit a dead end," said Arya. (With inputs from agencies)

Serial killer on loose in India’s Bareilly? Nine women murdered in identical way in 14 months

<p>Pulling a woman’s hair or pushing her during a quarrel does not count as outraging her modesty, the Bombay High Court said on Monday (Aug 5)&nbsp;while hearing a petition.</p>

<p>The petition was filed to seek invocation of section 354 (assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) against five disciples of self-proclaimed godman Dhirendra Shahstra, better-known as Bageshwar Baba.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The division bench of justices Revati Mohite-Dere and Prithviraj Chavan believed that molestation must include an intention to outrage a woman’s modesty and refused to issue orders to book the five disciples – Abhijit Karanjule, Mayuresh Kulkarni, Ishwar Gunjal, Avinash Pandey and Laxman Pant – under IPC section 354.</p>

<h2><strong>What is the case?</strong></h2>

<p>As per the petitioner Nitin Upadhyay, the five disciples had allegedly asked him to make a video claiming he had asked for ₹3.5 crore ($416,867.50) from a Rajasthan-based follower of the godman to organise a programme.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Upadhyay was asked to do this after a viral video surfaced online in which the godman allegedly demanded ₹3.5 crore&nbsp;($416,867.50) for organising an event in any state.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rekha-sharma-steps-down-after-nine-year-tenure-as-ncw-chairperson-747818">India: Rekha Sharma steps down after nine-year tenure as NCW chairperson</a></strong></p>

<p>When Upadhyay refused to make such a video, the disciples allegedly assaulted him and “molested” his wife by pulling her hair and pushing her; they also slapped his minor child. Upadhyay&nbsp;subsequently complained to Mumbai Police, based on which an offence was registered under section 323 (causing simple hurt) and other relevant sections of the IPC.</p>

<p>The petitioner tried to bolster his case by claiming that his wife was treated badly by the disciples and filed a petition.</p>

<h2><strong>What does the court say?</strong></h2>

<p>On Monday, the court rejected Upadhyay’s petition, observing that “the woman has to say specifically what was done to outrage her modesty. Merely pulling hair and using criminal force does not mean outraging modesty.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iit-madras-gets-historic-228-crore-donation-from-alumnus-747803">IIT Madras gets historic $271,000 donation from alumnus</a></strong></p>

<p>The court further said that in all rape cases, survivors usually accuse their perpetrators of “bad behaviour”, but they also explain in detail how this was done. “In this case, she only uses the words ‘bad behaviour’ but there is no explanation at all as to what it means,” the bench said.</p>

<p>The court also expressed satisfaction with the investigating agency for invoking the right sections under the IPC against the accused and refused to take the case any further.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pulling a woman’s hair or pushing her during a quarrel does not count as outraging her modesty, the Bombay High Court said on Monday (Aug 5) while hearing a petition.

Pulling a woman’s hair or pushing her during a quarrel does not count as outraging her modesty, the Bombay High Court said on Monday (Aug 5) while hearing a petition. The petition was filed to seek invocation of section 354 (assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) against five disciples of self-proclaimed godman Dhirendra Shahstra, better-known as Bageshwar Baba. The division bench of justices Revati Mohite-Dere and Prithviraj Chavan believed that molestation must include an intention to outrage a woman’s modesty and refused to issue orders to book the five disciples – Abhijit Karanjule, Mayuresh Kulkarni, Ishwar Gunjal, Avinash Pandey and Laxman Pant – under IPC section 354. What is the case? As per the petitioner Nitin Upadhyay, the five disciples had allegedly asked him to make a video claiming he had asked for ₹3.5 crore ($416,867.50) from a Rajasthan-based follower of the godman to organise a programme. Upadhyay was asked to do this after a viral video surfaced online in which the godman allegedly demanded ₹3.5 crore ($416,867.50) for organising an event in any state. Also Read | India: Rekha Sharma steps down after nine-year tenure as NCW chairperson When Upadhyay refused to make such a video, the disciples allegedly assaulted him and “molested” his wife by pulling her hair and pushing her; they also slapped his minor child. Upadhyay subsequently complained to Mumbai Police, based on which an offence was registered under section 323 (causing simple hurt) and other relevant sections of the IPC. The petitioner tried to bolster his case by claiming that his wife was treated badly by the disciples and filed a petition. What does the court say? On Monday, the court rejected Upadhyay’s petition, observing that “the woman has to say specifically what was done to outrage her modesty. Merely pulling hair and using criminal force does not mean outraging modesty.” Also Read | IIT Madras gets historic $271,000 donation from alumnus The court further said that in all rape cases, survivors usually accuse their perpetrators of “bad behaviour”, but they also explain in detail how this was done. “In this case, she only uses the words ‘bad behaviour’ but there is no explanation at all as to what it means,” the bench said. The court also expressed satisfaction with the investigating agency for invoking the right sections under the IPC against the accused and refused to take the case any further. (With inputs from agencies)

Pulling hair, pushing a woman during quarrel does not mean outraging her modesty: Bombay HC

<p>India national wrestling team coach Virender Dahiya has accused North Korea of 'intentionally hurting' Nisha Dahiya during the 68 kg freestyle quarterfinal bout on Monday (Aug 5) at the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It was 100 percent intentional, they hurt her intentionally. We had seen, there was an instruction from the Korean corner. They attacked the joint. They have taken away the medal from her,” coach Virender told news agency PTI.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-olympics-2024-watch-wrestler-nisha-dahiya-loses-after-serious-right-arm-injury-in-last-30-secs-of-qf-747455">WATCH | Wrestler Nisha Dahiya loses after serious right arm injury in last 30 secs of QF</a></p>

<p>“The way Nisha had started, the medal was in her neck and it has been taken away. The attacks were clear, the counter-attack worked and the defence was compact. She had beaten the same wrestler at the Asian Qualifier, there was no way Nisha was losing this,” he added.</p>

<p>Nisha Dahiya lost her bout to North Korea's Sol Gum Pak due to&nbsp;a shoulder injury in the last 30 seconds. Nisha had a lead going into the final round which she then stretched to 8-1.</p>

<p>An injury on her right arm which saw Nisha bursting into tears and getting attended to by the official medical staff gave her opponent a chance. The North Korean grappler took advantage of the injury and brought the&nbsp;scores level at 8-8.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With only 12 seconds left in the bout, Nisha required medical attention once again and was constantly crying because of pain. The India grappler, however, went down with an 8-10 score despite a valiant effort.</p>

<p>Indian Olympic Association (IOA) issued a statement on Nisha's injury and confirmed that she&nbsp;has been ruled out of the ongoing games.</p>

<p>“Wrestler Nisha sustained a severe shoulder injury during her bout today. It required reduction and MRI. She has been ruled out of the competition. The course of her treatment will be planned after further tests are performed,” IOA said in a statement.</p>


India national wrestling team coach Virender Dahiya has accused North Korea of 'intentionally hurting' Nisha Dahiya during the 68 kg freestyle quarterfinal bout on Monday (Aug 5) at the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024.

India national wrestling team coach Virender Dahiya has accused North Korea of 'intentionally hurting' Nisha Dahiya during the 68 kg freestyle quarterfinal bout on Monday (Aug 5) at the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024. “It was 100 percent intentional, they hurt her intentionally. We had seen, there was an instruction from the Korean corner. They attacked the joint. They have taken away the medal from her,” coach Virender told news agency PTI. Also Read: WATCH | Wrestler Nisha Dahiya loses after serious right arm injury in last 30 secs of QF “The way Nisha had started, the medal was in her neck and it has been taken away. The attacks were clear, the counter-attack worked and the defence was compact. She had beaten the same wrestler at the Asian Qualifier, there was no way Nisha was losing this,” he added. Nisha Dahiya lost her bout to North Korea's Sol Gum Pak due to a shoulder injury in the last 30 seconds. Nisha had a lead going into the final round which she then stretched to 8-1. An injury on her right arm which saw Nisha bursting into tears and getting attended to by the official medical staff gave her opponent a chance. The North Korean grappler took advantage of the injury and brought the scores level at 8-8. With only 12 seconds left in the bout, Nisha required medical attention once again and was constantly crying because of pain. The India grappler, however, went down with an 8-10 score despite a valiant effort. Indian Olympic Association (IOA) issued a statement on Nisha's injury and confirmed that she has been ruled out of the ongoing games. “Wrestler Nisha sustained a severe shoulder injury during her bout today. It required reduction and MRI. She has been ruled out of the competition. The course of her treatment will be planned after further tests are performed,” IOA said in a statement.

Paris Olympics 2024: 'Hurt her intentionally,' Nisha Dahiya's coach accuses North Korean opponent after loss

<p>Tensions have escalated sharply following the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, leader of the Palestinian group Hamas, in Tehran on Wednesday. This incident occurred just a day after an Israeli strike in Beirut killed Fuad Shukr, a top military commander from the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Consequently, several countries have issued travel warnings to their citizens against travelling to Lebanon. Here is a list of those countries:</p>

<p><strong>- Turkey:</strong> The Turkish Foreign Ministry urged its citizens in Lebanon to leave the country if their stay is non-essential, citing the possibility of a rapidly deteriorating security situation, Reuters reported.</p>

<p><strong>- India: </strong>The Indian Embassy in Beirut issued a travel advisory urging Indian nationals to avoid non-essential travel to Lebanon due to rising regional tensions.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Embassy of India in Beirut, Lebanon issues an advisory for Indian Nationals living in the country. <a href="https://t.co/xb6N0o9JxB">pic.twitter.com/xb6N0o9JxB</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1818818960219161035?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Indian embassy in Lebanon has issued three advisories in quick succession, with the latest one advising Indians to avoid all travel to and from Lebanon. In Israel, the Indian embassy has urged its nationals to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols. Additionally, Air India has suspended its flights to Tel Aviv.</p>

<p>There are currently 26,000 Indians in Israel, 10,000 in Iran and 4,000 in Lebanon.</p>

<p>The Embassy wrote on X, “Given the recent escalations in the region, Indian nationals are advised to avoid all non-essential travel to Lebanon.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-conflict-aid-group-says-children-at-risk-of-dying-in-darfur-as-rsf-blocks-medical-supplies-747353">Sudan conflict: Aid group says children at risk of dying in Darfur as RSF blocks medical supplies</a></p>

<p>-<strong> Australia: </strong>Foreign Minister Penny Wong shared a video on X with the caption:&nbsp;"My message to Australian citizens and residents in Lebanon is now is the time to leave."&nbsp;Directing Australians in Beirut to 'leave immediately,' Wong stated that the government might not be able to assist if tensions escalate and cause the closure of Beirut Airport.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My message to Australian citizens and residents in Lebanon is now is the time to leave. <a href="https://t.co/74DNfh1UNz">pic.twitter.com/74DNfh1UNz</a></p>
— Senator Penny Wong (@SenatorWong) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenatorWong/status/1818626571370217718?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>- Indonesia: </strong>The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advised against travelling to Lebanon, Iran and Israel, recommending immediate departure from Lebanon and increased vigilance.</p>

<p><strong>- United Kingdom:</strong> The UK Foreign Office revised its travel advisory, advising citizens to travel with caution and avoid all travel to Lebanon.</p>

<p><strong>- Canada:</strong> The government warned its nationals to return home if they are in Lebanon and advised against visiting Beirut.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sheikh-hasina-bangladeshs-tainted-leader-who-once-promised-democracy-only-to-get-toppled-by-it-747341">Sheikh Hasina: Bangladesh's tainted leader who once promised 'democracy' only to get toppled by it</a></p>

<p><strong>- France: </strong>The French Embassy in Beirut urged French citizens to leave Lebanon as soon as possible.</p>

<p>Other countries, including the US, Italy, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Belgium, and Denmark have also issued travel advisories, urging citizens to either leave Lebanon or avoid travelling to Beirut.</p>


Tensions have escalated sharply following the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, leader of the Palestinian group Hamas, in Tehran on Wednesday. This incident occurred just a day after an Israeli strike in Beirut killed Fuad Shukr, a top military commander from the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah.

Tensions have escalated sharply following the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, leader of the Palestinian group Hamas, in Tehran on Wednesday. This incident occurred just a day after an Israeli strike in Beirut killed Fuad Shukr, a top military commander from the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah. Consequently, several countries have issued travel warnings to their citizens against travelling to Lebanon. Here is a list of those countries: - Turkey: The Turkish Foreign Ministry urged its citizens in Lebanon to leave the country if their stay is non-essential, citing the possibility of a rapidly deteriorating security situation, Reuters reported. - India: The Indian Embassy in Beirut issued a travel advisory urging Indian nationals to avoid non-essential travel to Lebanon due to rising regional tensions. The Embassy of India in Beirut, Lebanon issues an advisory for Indian Nationals living in the country. pic.twitter.com/xb6N0o9JxB — ANI (@ANI) August 1, 2024 × The Indian embassy in Lebanon has issued three advisories in quick succession, with the latest one advising Indians to avoid all travel to and from Lebanon. In Israel, the Indian embassy has urged its nationals to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols. Additionally, Air India has suspended its flights to Tel Aviv. There are currently 26,000 Indians in Israel, 10,000 in Iran and 4,000 in Lebanon. The Embassy wrote on X, “Given the recent escalations in the region, Indian nationals are advised to avoid all non-essential travel to Lebanon.” Also read | Sudan conflict: Aid group says children at risk of dying in Darfur as RSF blocks medical supplies - Australia: Foreign Minister Penny Wong shared a video on X with the caption: "My message to Australian citizens and residents in Lebanon is now is the time to leave." Directing Australians in Beirut to 'leave immediately,' Wong stated that the government might not be able to assist if tensions escalate and cause the closure of Beirut Airport. My message to Australian citizens and residents in Lebanon is now is the time to leave. pic.twitter.com/74DNfh1UNz — Senator Penny Wong (@SenatorWong) July 31, 2024 × - Indonesia: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advised against travelling to Lebanon, Iran and Israel, recommending immediate departure from Lebanon and increased vigilance. - United Kingdom: The UK Foreign Office revised its travel advisory, advising citizens to travel with caution and avoid all travel to Lebanon. - Canada: The government warned its nationals to return home if they are in Lebanon and advised against visiting Beirut. Also read | Sheikh Hasina: Bangladesh's tainted leader who once promised 'democracy' only to get toppled by it - France: The French Embassy in Beirut urged French citizens to leave Lebanon as soon as possible. Other countries, including the US, Italy, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Belgium, and Denmark have also issued travel advisories, urging citizens to either leave Lebanon or avoid travelling to Beirut.

Countries issue travel warnings after Hamas and Hezbollah leaders' deaths

<p>As more global hotspots and crises emerge, the Indian government has been issuing travel advisories for its nationals. Over the weekend, India's Ministry of External Affairs issued an updated advisory for Bangladesh in which it "strongly advised" Indians against travelling to the country that has seen increased violence in the last 24 hours.</p>

<p>The MEA statement said, "All Indian nationals presently in Bangladesh are advised to exercise extreme caution, restrict their movements and remain in contact with the High Commission of India in Dhaka through their emergency phone numbers". Over 8000 Indian students have left Bangladesh since the outbreak of violence in the last few weeks.</p>

<p>Last week saw India issuing an advisory for Lebanon and Israel as the situation worsens in the backdrop of the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran which Iran blames on Israeli authorities. Some strong reaction is being expected from Iran, keeping West Asia on the edge.</p>

<p>The Indian embassy in Lebanon issued three&nbsp;back-to-back advisories, the last one advising Indians against all travel to and from Lebanon. The Indian embassy in Israel asked its nationals to "stay vigilant and adhere to the safety protocols". Meanwhile, Air India has suspended flights to Tel Aviv. Israel has 26000 Indians, Iran has 10,000 Indians and Lebanon has 4000 Indians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Not just the neighbourhood and West Asia, India has alerted its nationals in Nigeria and Kenya as well since both countries face&nbsp;internal crisis and have significant presence of Indians.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Bangladesh Protest: Renewed anti-government protests leave nearly 100 dead</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-protest-renewed-anti-government-protests-leave-nearly-100-dead-747243/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>While these advisories have been issued in the past few months, Indian advisories have been issued for specific reasons and for specific strata of society. For example, India has advisories for Indian students in the US, Canada and Russia where reports have emerged of Indian students losing lives. In South East Asia, advisories for Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia where Indians have found themselves being the target of fake job racket scams.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Not just travel advisories, but three&nbsp;countries have been banned for Indians to visit. These are five provinces of Iraq, Yemen and Libya. As per the travel advisory issued on February 18, 2020, Indian nationals should not travel to five provinces of Iraq, namely Nineveh, Salahuddin, Diyala, Anbar and Kirkuk due to the security situation.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-protesters-call-for-march-to-dhaka-as-fresh-clashes-leave-nearly-100-dead-747266"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Bangladesh protesters call for march to Dhaka as fresh clashes leave nearly 100 dead</strong></a></p>

<p>India issued an advisory on Yemen in 2016/2017 under which all Indian nationals are strongly advised to avoid travelling to Yemen under any circumstances. The passport or travel document issued by the Government of India is invalid for travel to Yemen. India announced a travel ban for Libya in May 2016.</p>


As more global hotspots and crises emerge, the Indian government has been issuing travel advisories for its nationals. Over the weekend, India's Ministry of External Affairs issued an updated advisory for Bangladesh in which it "strongly advised" Indians against travelling to the country that has seen increased violence in the last 24 hours.

As more global hotspots and crises emerge, the Indian government has been issuing travel advisories for its nationals. Over the weekend, India's Ministry of External Affairs issued an updated advisory for Bangladesh in which it "strongly advised" Indians against travelling to the country that has seen increased violence in the last 24 hours. The MEA statement said, "All Indian nationals presently in Bangladesh are advised to exercise extreme caution, restrict their movements and remain in contact with the High Commission of India in Dhaka through their emergency phone numbers". Over 8000 Indian students have left Bangladesh since the outbreak of violence in the last few weeks. Last week saw India issuing an advisory for Lebanon and Israel as the situation worsens in the backdrop of the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran which Iran blames on Israeli authorities. Some strong reaction is being expected from Iran, keeping West Asia on the edge. The Indian embassy in Lebanon issued three back-to-back advisories, the last one advising Indians against all travel to and from Lebanon. The Indian embassy in Israel asked its nationals to "stay vigilant and adhere to the safety protocols". Meanwhile, Air India has suspended flights to Tel Aviv. Israel has 26000 Indians, Iran has 10,000 Indians and Lebanon has 4000 Indians. Not just the neighbourhood and West Asia, India has alerted its nationals in Nigeria and Kenya as well since both countries face internal crisis and have significant presence of Indians. Also watch | Bangladesh Protest: Renewed anti-government protests leave nearly 100 dead While these advisories have been issued in the past few months, Indian advisories have been issued for specific reasons and for specific strata of society. For example, India has advisories for Indian students in the US, Canada and Russia where reports have emerged of Indian students losing lives. In South East Asia, advisories for Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia where Indians have found themselves being the target of fake job racket scams. Not just travel advisories, but three countries have been banned for Indians to visit. These are five provinces of Iraq, Yemen and Libya. As per the travel advisory issued on February 18, 2020, Indian nationals should not travel to five provinces of Iraq, namely Nineveh, Salahuddin, Diyala, Anbar and Kirkuk due to the security situation. Also read | Bangladesh protesters call for march to Dhaka as fresh clashes leave nearly 100 dead India issued an advisory on Yemen in 2016/2017 under which all Indian nationals are strongly advised to avoid travelling to Yemen under any circumstances. The passport or travel document issued by the Government of India is invalid for travel to Yemen. India announced a travel ban for Libya in May 2016.

As global conflicts and crises rise, India issues number of advisories for its nationals

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