In a shocking incident, a 17-year-old girl in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh’s Lakhimpur Kheri was held captive for three days, repeatedly raped and her face was branded with a hot iron rod allegedly by a 21-year-old man after she refused to marry him.&nbsp;

The accused who branded the letters of his name ‘Aman’ on the girl’s face has since been arrested based on the complaint filed by the girl’s family.&nbsp;

<h2>What we know about the ordeal</h2>

On April 19, the accused forcibly took the 17-year-old girl to his home as she was on her way back from a show, according to the complaint filed.&nbsp;

The girl’s mother, last week on April 21, filed a complaint with Dhaurahra police in which she accused Aman of taking her daughter away. She also accused him of holding her daughter captive at his home and said he raped and assaulted her, according to the police.&nbsp;

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The girl somehow managed to escape and returned home on April 21 after which the family went to the police, according to the FIR filed.&nbsp;

The case was initially registered under sections 343 (wrongful confinement), 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) and 504 (intentional insult) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), said Deputy Superintendent PP Singh, according to news agency PTI.&nbsp;

Since the girl returned home, Section 376 (rape) and the POCSO Act were added to the FIR, Singh said. The accused was arrested on Saturday (Apr 27), said the police, adding that the case is under investigation.&nbsp;

Speaking about the accused, the police said that the 21-year-old was a school dropout and worked at a salon in the city of Hyderabad. “He wanted to marry the girl and when she refused, he wrote his name on both her cheeks,” said Station House Officer Dinesh Singh.&nbsp;

The police said that since the girl was not carrying any ID, it was difficult to confirm if she was a minor but after they did, IPC Section 324 (voluntarily causing hurt using a dangerous weapon) and 376 (rape) along with POCSO Act was also added to the FIR.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Lesser’ sections</h2>

The 17-year-old girl’s parents alleged that the police initially registered the case under “lesser” sections and that only after the survivor’s statement was recorded before a magistrate, section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), section 376 (rape) and the POCSO Act were added to the FIR.

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However, Superintendent (Kheri) Ganesh Saha told the Times of India (TOI) that the FIR was registered based on the complaint by the family and when they recorded the 17-year-old’s statement she did not level such “grave allegations”.&nbsp;

He added, “We don’t know why she changed her statement in court. However, we have started our probe as per her allegations now. The accused has been arrested.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

In a shocking incident, a 17-year-old girl in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh’s Lakhimpur Kheri was held captive for three days, repeatedly raped and her face was branded with a hot iron rod allegedly by a 21-year-old man after she refused to marry him.

In a shocking incident, a 17-year-old girl in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh’s Lakhimpur Kheri was held captive for three days, repeatedly raped and her face was branded with a hot iron rod allegedly by a 21-year-old man after she refused to marry him. The accused who branded the letters of his name ‘Aman’ on the girl’s face has since been arrested based on the complaint filed by the girl’s family. What we know about the ordeal On April 19, the accused forcibly took the 17-year-old girl to his home as she was on her way back from a show, according to the complaint filed. The girl’s mother, last week on April 21, filed a complaint with Dhaurahra police in which she accused Aman of taking her daughter away. She also accused him of holding her daughter captive at his home and said he raped and assaulted her, according to the police. Also Read | Indian-American doctor who drove Tesla off cliff had major psychotic episode, report says The girl somehow managed to escape and returned home on April 21 after which the family went to the police, according to the FIR filed. The case was initially registered under sections 343 (wrongful confinement), 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) and 504 (intentional insult) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), said Deputy Superintendent PP Singh, according to news agency PTI. Since the girl returned home, Section 376 (rape) and the POCSO Act were added to the FIR, Singh said. The accused was arrested on Saturday (Apr 27), said the police, adding that the case is under investigation. Speaking about the accused, the police said that the 21-year-old was a school dropout and worked at a salon in the city of Hyderabad. “He wanted to marry the girl and when she refused, he wrote his name on both her cheeks,” said Station House Officer Dinesh Singh. The police said that since the girl was not carrying any ID, it was difficult to confirm if she was a minor but after they did, IPC Section 324 (voluntarily causing hurt using a dangerous weapon) and 376 (rape) along with POCSO Act was also added to the FIR. ‘Lesser’ sections The 17-year-old girl’s parents alleged that the police initially registered the case under “lesser” sections and that only after the survivor’s statement was recorded before a magistrate, section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), section 376 (rape) and the POCSO Act were added to the FIR. Also Read | Three Indian women die in US after car crashes into trees in devastating accident However, Superintendent (Kheri) Ganesh Saha told the Times of India (TOI) that the FIR was registered based on the complaint by the family and when they recorded the 17-year-old’s statement she did not level such “grave allegations”. He added, “We don’t know why she changed her statement in court. However, we have started our probe as per her allegations now. The accused has been arrested.” (With inputs from agencies)

India: UP girl raped for 3 days, face branded with hot iron rod after rejecting marriage proposal

The Delhi Police's Special Cell registered an FIR over a tampered video of Union Home Minister Amit Shah after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) claimed that the footage showing Shah making vows to scrap all reservations for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes was false.

"We received a complaint regarding the edited video of the Home Minister. Two complaints were received by police, one from the BJP and another from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Following this, the Delhi Police Special Cell Cyber Wing's IFSO unit filed an FIR," a source said.

The BJP had earlier alleged that the original footage of Shah had him talk about the removal of a 4 per cent "unconstitutional" reservation for Muslims in Telangana.

However, the saffron party said that the footage, which was from a recent election rally, was edited in a manner where it indicated that the Union Home Minister was advocating the move to scrap reservations for backward groups.

A case has been registered under Sections 153, 153A, 465, 469, 171G of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and section 66C of the Information Technology (IT) Act and a probe has been initiated, said the sources as per Indian news agencies.

"The video seems to be doctored, spreading misleading information with the intention of creating disharmony among communities which is likely to affect public tranquillity and public order issues. It is requested to kindly take necessary legal action as per the provisions of law," the ministry said, as per the FIR, according to IANS.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-hits-out-at-congress-over-evm-ruling-supreme-court-gave-a-tight-slap-716030">PM Modi hits out at Congress over EVM ruling; ‘Supreme Court gave a tight slap’</a>

<h2>Congress state units share video</h2>

Congress state units shared the video on their respective social media handles stating that the BJP was making plans to terminate SC/ST reservations.

Jharkhand Congress, sharing the video on its official X handle wrote, "Amit Shah's election speech went viral in which he said that if the BJP government is formed again, OBC and SC/ST reservation will be abolished".

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🚨ब्रेकिंग 
 
अमित शाह का चुनावी भाषण तेजी से हुआ वायरल जिसमें, बोल रहे है कि अगर बीजेपी की सरकार अगर पुनः बनी तो OBC और SC/St आरक्षण खत्म कर दिया जाएगा l <a href="https://t.co/5NzajLCgLd">pic.twitter.com/5NzajLCgLd</a>
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&nbsp;

Meanwhile, BJP leader Amit Malviya said that Congress is "spreading an edited video, which is completely fake and has the potential to cause large-scale violence. Home Minister Amit Shah spoke about removing the unconstitutional reservation given to Muslims, on the basis of religion, after reducing the share of SCs/STs and OBCs. This fake video has been posted by several Congress spokespersons. They must be prepared for legal consequences".

(With inputs from agencies)

The Delhi Police's Special Cell registered an FIR over a tampered video of Union Home Minister Amit Shah after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) claimed that the footage showing Shah making vows to scrap all reservations for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes was false.

The Delhi Police's Special Cell registered an FIR over a tampered video of Union Home Minister Amit Shah after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) claimed that the footage showing Shah making vows to scrap all reservations for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes was false. "We received a complaint regarding the edited video of the Home Minister. Two complaints were received by police, one from the BJP and another from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Following this, the Delhi Police Special Cell Cyber Wing's IFSO unit filed an FIR," a source said. The BJP had earlier alleged that the original footage of Shah had him talk about the removal of a 4 per cent "unconstitutional" reservation for Muslims in Telangana. However, the saffron party said that the footage, which was from a recent election rally, was edited in a manner where it indicated that the Union Home Minister was advocating the move to scrap reservations for backward groups. A case has been registered under Sections 153, 153A, 465, 469, 171G of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and section 66C of the Information Technology (IT) Act and a probe has been initiated, said the sources as per Indian news agencies. "The video seems to be doctored, spreading misleading information with the intention of creating disharmony among communities which is likely to affect public tranquillity and public order issues. It is requested to kindly take necessary legal action as per the provisions of law," the ministry said, as per the FIR, according to IANS. Also read: PM Modi hits out at Congress over EVM ruling; ‘Supreme Court gave a tight slap’ Congress state units share video Congress state units shared the video on their respective social media handles stating that the BJP was making plans to terminate SC/ST reservations. Jharkhand Congress, sharing the video on its official X handle wrote, "Amit Shah's election speech went viral in which he said that if the BJP government is formed again, OBC and SC/ST reservation will be abolished". 🚨ब्रेकिंग अमित शाह का चुनावी भाषण तेजी से हुआ वायरल जिसमें, बोल रहे है कि अगर बीजेपी की सरकार अगर पुनः बनी तो OBC और SC/St आरक्षण खत्म कर दिया जाएगा l pic.twitter.com/5NzajLCgLd — Jharkhand Congress (@INCJharkhand) April 28, 2024 × Meanwhile, BJP leader Amit Malviya said that Congress is "spreading an edited video, which is completely fake and has the potential to cause large-scale violence. Home Minister Amit Shah spoke about removing the unconstitutional reservation given to Muslims, on the basis of religion, after reducing the share of SCs/STs and OBCs. This fake video has been posted by several Congress spokespersons. They must be prepared for legal consequences". (With inputs from agencies)

India: Delhi Police file FIR over Amit Shah's 'doctored video' on scrapping reservation

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a jibe at the Congress and INDIA bloc on Saturday (Apr 27) stating that the opposition bloc is weighing up on a one-year PM scheme.

Further dubbing the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction) fake, PM Modi said that they were walking shoulder to shoulder with the INDI Alliance.

While addressing a rally in Maharashtra's Kolhapur, the prime minister said that after the completion of the second phase, BJP-NDA was leading by 2-0.

"Kolhapur is called the football hub of Maharashtra. Football is very popular among the local youth here. If I speak to you in Football terminology, yesterday after the completion of the second phase, BJP-NDA is leading 2-0," PM Modi said.

<h2>'Congress and INDIA bloc will abrogate CAA'</h2>

He further hit out at the INDIA bloc alleging that if their government is formed, they will abrogate the CAA.

"They (Congress and INDIA bloc) are saying that if their government is formed, they will abrogate the CAA. Will the county allow them to do this? If in case they try to do so they know what they have to face? Those who cannot win Lok Sabha seats in 3-digit numbers, can the INDI alliance even reach the door of forming a government. Their formula is 'Ek Saal, Ek PM'... And if they stay in power for 5 years, then 5 prime ministers. The Congress and INDI alliance are making speeches in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu demanding a separate country. Can the land of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj ever accept this?" PM Modi&nbsp;said.

He then asserted that the Congress and the INDIA bloc have only two self-goals, "anti-nationalism and politics of hatred."

"DMK party is very special to Congress, is abusing Sanatana. They are saying that the Sanatana is dengue and malaria. People who talk about destroying Sanatana Dharma are invited by INDI Alliance to Maharashtra and they are welcomed here. INDI Alliance has stooped so low in vote bank politics that they have allied with people who believe in Aurangzeb. What must Bala Saheb feel after seeing this?... Fake Shiv Sena is walking shoulder-to-shoulder with these people... Bala Saheb must have been very upset with this. Wherever his soul is, it must be upset seeing these activities," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>Priyanka Gandhi slams PM Modi</h2>

Meanwhile, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra launched a scathing attack on PM Modi calling him arrogant.

In an apparent reference to Modi, Priyanka said that in the past, there were many prime ministers who sacrificed their lives for the country, even her father whom she "brought back in pieces".

While addressing a rally at Dharampur village in Valsad in PM Modi's home state of Gujarat on Saturday, Gandhi said in Hindi," I have seen such Prime Ministers. And I am not saying, that only my family members served. Indira Ji was there. She sacrificed her life for the country. Rajiv Gandhi was a Prime Minister too, I brought him home in pieces, he sacrificed his life for his country."

Hitting out at PM Modi, she said, "Our Prime Minister is arrogant. No one dares to say a thing to him. How will he come to know about your situation? He does not come to meet you so how would he come to know the real issues? Do you remember, Indira (Gandhi) Ji and Rajiv ji used to come? As a child, I would walk behind him".

"Then there was Manmohan Singh Ji. He brought a revolution in the country. Not only the Congress party, there was Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji. I am saying it with conviction that he (Modi) will be the first Prime Minister of the country who is speaking lies in front of you," she added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a jibe at the Congress and INDIA bloc on Saturday (Apr 27) stating that the opposition bloc is weighing up on a one-year PM scheme.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a jibe at the Congress and INDIA bloc on Saturday (Apr 27) stating that the opposition bloc is weighing up on a one-year PM scheme. Further dubbing the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction) fake, PM Modi said that they were walking shoulder to shoulder with the INDI Alliance. While addressing a rally in Maharashtra's Kolhapur, the prime minister said that after the completion of the second phase, BJP-NDA was leading by 2-0. "Kolhapur is called the football hub of Maharashtra. Football is very popular among the local youth here. If I speak to you in Football terminology, yesterday after the completion of the second phase, BJP-NDA is leading 2-0," PM Modi said. 'Congress and INDIA bloc will abrogate CAA' He further hit out at the INDIA bloc alleging that if their government is formed, they will abrogate the CAA. "They (Congress and INDIA bloc) are saying that if their government is formed, they will abrogate the CAA. Will the county allow them to do this? If in case they try to do so they know what they have to face? Those who cannot win Lok Sabha seats in 3-digit numbers, can the INDI alliance even reach the door of forming a government. Their formula is 'Ek Saal, Ek PM'... And if they stay in power for 5 years, then 5 prime ministers. The Congress and INDI alliance are making speeches in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu demanding a separate country. Can the land of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj ever accept this?" PM Modi said. He then asserted that the Congress and the INDIA bloc have only two self-goals, "anti-nationalism and politics of hatred." "DMK party is very special to Congress, is abusing Sanatana. They are saying that the Sanatana is dengue and malaria. People who talk about destroying Sanatana Dharma are invited by INDI Alliance to Maharashtra and they are welcomed here. INDI Alliance has stooped so low in vote bank politics that they have allied with people who believe in Aurangzeb. What must Bala Saheb feel after seeing this?... Fake Shiv Sena is walking shoulder-to-shoulder with these people... Bala Saheb must have been very upset with this. Wherever his soul is, it must be upset seeing these activities," he added. Priyanka Gandhi slams PM Modi Meanwhile, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra launched a scathing attack on PM Modi calling him arrogant. In an apparent reference to Modi, Priyanka said that in the past, there were many prime ministers who sacrificed their lives for the country, even her father whom she "brought back in pieces". While addressing a rally at Dharampur village in Valsad in PM Modi's home state of Gujarat on Saturday, Gandhi said in Hindi," I have seen such Prime Ministers. And I am not saying, that only my family members served. Indira Ji was there. She sacrificed her life for the country. Rajiv Gandhi was a Prime Minister too, I brought him home in pieces, he sacrificed his life for his country." Hitting out at PM Modi, she said, "Our Prime Minister is arrogant. No one dares to say a thing to him. How will he come to know about your situation? He does not come to meet you so how would he come to know the real issues? Do you remember, Indira (Gandhi) Ji and Rajiv ji used to come? As a child, I would walk behind him". "Then there was Manmohan Singh Ji. He brought a revolution in the country. Not only the Congress party, there was Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji. I am saying it with conviction that he (Modi) will be the first Prime Minister of the country who is speaking lies in front of you," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi takes a jibe at INDIA bloc, says 'opposition alliance planning to have 5 PMs'

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a swipe at the Congress on Sunday (Apr 28)&nbsp;and said that the Supreme Court gave a "tight slap" on the face of the grand old party with its verdict over electronic voting machine (EVM).

He said that after the apex court's verdict, the Congress will not be able to make any "excuses" when they lose the elections.

He then took a jibe at the party stating that the Congress is in "panic" mode after the polling in Karnataka during the second phase of Lok Sabha elections on April 26.

While addressing a public meeting in Karnataka's Davanagere, PM Modi said, "The state of Karnataka has created a panic in the Congress party with the voting on April 26...they are very frustrated. Congress is working with all might to ensure that something happens on May 7, and they are at least able to open their accounts...this huge gathering is clearly showing that people of the state will punish Congress for its sins."

"The day is not far when all the internal battles within Congress party will come out on roads.&nbsp;Everyone will be putting the blame of the loss on each other. Earlier, they used to put the whole blame on EVM. They start chanting 'EVM EVM' as soon as the election comes. But, now the Supreme Court has given such a tight slap, that even this excuse can't be given," he added.

Earlier last week, the Supreme Court rejected petitions seeking 100 per cent verification of votes cast on EVMs with paper slips generated through VVPAT&nbsp;(Voter-verified paper audit trail).

The court also rejected the petitioners' plea to return to ballot paper voting on April 26.&nbsp;

The two-judge bench of Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Dipankar Datta delivered a unanimous verdict.&nbsp;

In a veiled jibe at CM Siddarmaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, he also hit out at the Karnataka government accusing them of giving 2.5 years of chief ministership to its leaders.

"Congress in Karnataka isn't addressing the public but they are trying to see how number one will defeat the number two. Due to their factionalism, nepotism and wrong policies, Congress is playing with the future of the youth, farmers and common people," PM Modi said.

"In Karnataka, they have not told the public, but have decided one will sit for 2.5 years and the other for the next 2.5 years. Now, if they create a system like this, won't the two sabotage each other?," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a swipe at the Congress on Sunday (Apr 28) and said that the Supreme Court gave a "tight slap" on the face of the grand old party with its verdict over electronic voting machine (EVM).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a swipe at the Congress on Sunday (Apr 28) and said that the Supreme Court gave a "tight slap" on the face of the grand old party with its verdict over electronic voting machine (EVM). He said that after the apex court's verdict, the Congress will not be able to make any "excuses" when they lose the elections. He then took a jibe at the party stating that the Congress is in "panic" mode after the polling in Karnataka during the second phase of Lok Sabha elections on April 26. While addressing a public meeting in Karnataka's Davanagere, PM Modi said, "The state of Karnataka has created a panic in the Congress party with the voting on April 26...they are very frustrated. Congress is working with all might to ensure that something happens on May 7, and they are at least able to open their accounts...this huge gathering is clearly showing that people of the state will punish Congress for its sins." "The day is not far when all the internal battles within Congress party will come out on roads. Everyone will be putting the blame of the loss on each other. Earlier, they used to put the whole blame on EVM. They start chanting 'EVM EVM' as soon as the election comes. But, now the Supreme Court has given such a tight slap, that even this excuse can't be given," he added. Earlier last week, the Supreme Court rejected petitions seeking 100 per cent verification of votes cast on EVMs with paper slips generated through VVPAT (Voter-verified paper audit trail). The court also rejected the petitioners' plea to return to ballot paper voting on April 26. The two-judge bench of Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Dipankar Datta delivered a unanimous verdict. In a veiled jibe at CM Siddarmaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, he also hit out at the Karnataka government accusing them of giving 2.5 years of chief ministership to its leaders. "Congress in Karnataka isn't addressing the public but they are trying to see how number one will defeat the number two. Due to their factionalism, nepotism and wrong policies, Congress is playing with the future of the youth, farmers and common people," PM Modi said. "In Karnataka, they have not told the public, but have decided one will sit for 2.5 years and the other for the next 2.5 years. Now, if they create a system like this, won't the two sabotage each other?," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi hits out at Congress over EVM ruling: ‘Supreme Court gave a tight slap’

The second phase of Lok Sabha elections witnessed the maximum voter turnout in Tripura with 78.53 per cent voting, whereas Uttar Pradesh registered the lowest with 53.71 per cent, as per the data released by the Election Commission of India.

The states including Manipur, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh and Assam also registered healthy turnouts with Manipur at 77.18 per cent, West Bengal at 71.84 per cent, Chhattisgarh at 72.61 per cent, Assam at 70.66 per cent.

The states with relatively lower turnouts include Maharashtra at 53.84 per cent, Bihar at 54.91 per cent, Madhya Pradesh at 55.77 per cent and Rajasthan at 59.19 per cent respectively.

The voter turnout of other states are Kerala at 63.97 per cent, Karnataka at 64.85 per cent, and Jammu and Kashmir at 71.21 per cent.&nbsp;

The second phase of Lok Sabha elections covered 88 seats across 13 states and Union Territories which started at 8 am and went on till 6 pm.

Several constituencies that went into polls today experienced intense heat conditions. The first phase was held on April 19 in 102 seats across 21 states and Union territories.

Polling was held in all 20 seats of Kerala, 14 of the 28 seats in Karnataka, 13 seats in Rajasthan, 8 seats each in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, 6 seats in Madhya Pradesh, 5 seats each in Assam and Bihar, 3 seats each in Chhattisgarh and West Bengal, and 1 seat each in Manipur, Tripura and Jammu and Kashmir.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-phase-2-voting-mallikarjun-kharge-tries-to-hold-on-to-last-straws-in-his-appeal-for-vote-715237">Lok Sabha Elections phase 2 voting: Mallikarjun Kharge tries to hold on to last straws in his appeal for vote</a>

<h2>Key candidates</h2>

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, Union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar and actor-turned-politician Arun Govil, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar’s brother DK Suresh (Cong), and former Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy (JDS) are among the key candidates, whereas BJP’s Hema Malini, Om Birla and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat are seeking a hat-trick from their respective constituencies.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the morning, urged people to cast their votes stating that a high voter turnout would further strengthen democracy.

“Phase Two has been too good! Gratitude to the people across India who have voted today. The unparalleled support for NDA is going to disappoint the Opposition even more. Voters want NDA’s good governance. Youth and women voters are powering the strong NDA support,” he wrote in a post on X.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The second phase of Lok Sabha elections witnessed the maximum voter turnout in Tripura with 78.53 per cent voting, whereas Uttar Pradesh registered the lowest with 53.

The second phase of Lok Sabha elections witnessed the maximum voter turnout in Tripura with 78.53 per cent voting, whereas Uttar Pradesh registered the lowest with 53.71 per cent, as per the data released by the Election Commission of India. The states including Manipur, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh and Assam also registered healthy turnouts with Manipur at 77.18 per cent, West Bengal at 71.84 per cent, Chhattisgarh at 72.61 per cent, Assam at 70.66 per cent. The states with relatively lower turnouts include Maharashtra at 53.84 per cent, Bihar at 54.91 per cent, Madhya Pradesh at 55.77 per cent and Rajasthan at 59.19 per cent respectively. The voter turnout of other states are Kerala at 63.97 per cent, Karnataka at 64.85 per cent, and Jammu and Kashmir at 71.21 per cent. The second phase of Lok Sabha elections covered 88 seats across 13 states and Union Territories which started at 8 am and went on till 6 pm. Several constituencies that went into polls today experienced intense heat conditions. The first phase was held on April 19 in 102 seats across 21 states and Union territories. Polling was held in all 20 seats of Kerala, 14 of the 28 seats in Karnataka, 13 seats in Rajasthan, 8 seats each in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, 6 seats in Madhya Pradesh, 5 seats each in Assam and Bihar, 3 seats each in Chhattisgarh and West Bengal, and 1 seat each in Manipur, Tripura and Jammu and Kashmir. Also read: Lok Sabha Elections phase 2 voting: Mallikarjun Kharge tries to hold on to last straws in his appeal for vote Key candidates Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, Union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar and actor-turned-politician Arun Govil, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar’s brother DK Suresh (Cong), and former Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy (JDS) are among the key candidates, whereas BJP’s Hema Malini, Om Birla and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat are seeking a hat-trick from their respective constituencies. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the morning, urged people to cast their votes stating that a high voter turnout would further strengthen democracy. “Phase Two has been too good! Gratitude to the people across India who have voted today. The unparalleled support for NDA is going to disappoint the Opposition even more. Voters want NDA’s good governance. Youth and women voters are powering the strong NDA support,” he wrote in a post on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls 2nd phase: Tripura leads voter turnout with 78.53%, UP numbers lowest

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Apr 25) held a telephonic conversation with his Italian counterpart Georgia Meloni where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the bilateral strategic partnership.

PM Modi extended greetings to Meloni and the people of Italy on the occasion of the 79th anniversary of Liberation Day.

The Indian prime minister also received an invitation from PM Meloni for the G7 Summit Outreach Session in Italy that is scheduled to take place in the month of June.

The two leaders discussed taking forward the significant outcomes from India's G20 Presidency, "especially that support the Global South, at the G7 Summit under Italy's Presidency."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-the-bittersweet-melodi-in-india-italy-ties-during-swaraj-jaishankar-years-667672">Also read:&nbsp;Explained: The bittersweet 'melodi' in India-Italy ties during Swaraj-Jaishankar years</a>

PM Modi took to his official X account to write, "Spoke with PM Giorgia Meloni and extended greetings as Italy celebrates its Liberation Day today. Thanked her for the invite to the G7 Summit in June. Discussed taking forward G20 India outcomes at the G7. Reaffirmed commitment to deepening our Strategic Partnership".

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Spoke with PM <a href="https://twitter.com/GiorgiaMeloni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GiorgiaMeloni</a> and extended greetings as Italy celebrates its Liberation day today. Thanked her for the invite to the G7 Summit in June. Discussed taking forward <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20India</a> outcomes at the G7. Reaffirmed commitment to deepening our Strategic Partnership.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1783518460909441519?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Both leaders, during the call, also exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest. &nbsp; &nbsp;

WATCH: PM Modi greets Meloni on Italy's Liberation Day | Putin plans to visit China in May

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The Group of Seven, also known as G7, brings together Italy, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. &nbsp;

The European Union also takes part in the Group and at the summits is represented by the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission.

Italy, for the seventh time, assumed the Presidency of the G7 in January 2024. The Italian Presidency will last till December 31 this year.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Apr 25) held a telephonic conversation with his Italian counterpart Georgia Meloni where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the bilateral strategic partnership.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Apr 25) held a telephonic conversation with his Italian counterpart Georgia Meloni where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the bilateral strategic partnership. PM Modi extended greetings to Meloni and the people of Italy on the occasion of the 79th anniversary of Liberation Day. The Indian prime minister also received an invitation from PM Meloni for the G7 Summit Outreach Session in Italy that is scheduled to take place in the month of June. The two leaders discussed taking forward the significant outcomes from India's G20 Presidency, "especially that support the Global South, at the G7 Summit under Italy's Presidency." Also read: Explained: The bittersweet 'melodi' in India-Italy ties during Swaraj-Jaishankar years PM Modi took to his official X account to write, "Spoke with PM Giorgia Meloni and extended greetings as Italy celebrates its Liberation Day today. Thanked her for the invite to the G7 Summit in June. Discussed taking forward G20 India outcomes at the G7. Reaffirmed commitment to deepening our Strategic Partnership". Spoke with PM @GiorgiaMeloni and extended greetings as Italy celebrates its Liberation day today. Thanked her for the invite to the G7 Summit in June. Discussed taking forward #G20India outcomes at the G7. Reaffirmed commitment to deepening our Strategic Partnership. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 25, 2024 × Both leaders, during the call, also exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest. WATCH: PM Modi greets Meloni on Italy's Liberation Day | Putin plans to visit China in May × The Group of Seven, also known as G7, brings together Italy, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. The European Union also takes part in the Group and at the summits is represented by the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission. Italy, for the seventh time, assumed the Presidency of the G7 in January 2024. The Italian Presidency will last till December 31 this year. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi dials Italian counterpart Meloni, thanks her for invite to G7 Summit Outreach Session

More than 75 per cent of Indians have encountered deepfake content in the past year or so, and a significant number of people were unable to spot real and artificial intelligence (AI)-generated content, according to a recent report by the American global computer security software company, McAfee.&nbsp;

<h2>One in four Indians believed&nbsp;political deepfakes were real</h2>

The study by MSI-ACI involved 7,000 consumers from across several countries like&nbsp;India, Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, France, and Germany, to examine the impact of AI and technology.&nbsp;

Notably, with 75 per cent of people saying that they have encountered deepfake content in the past year or so, only 30 per cent of respondents feel confident in their ability to distinguish between real and fake content.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Deepfake of Marcos urges combat with China

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In a more concerning finding of the study, which was conducted in January and February, McAfee&nbsp;found that nearly one in four (22 per cent) Indians surveyed said that they had encountered a political deepfake including video, image, or recording of a candidate which they thought was initially true.&nbsp;

This comes as India is in the midst of holding the world’s largest elections with nearly one billion voters headed to the polls and the impact of this deepfake content on their decisions would be difficult to know.&nbsp;

However, it is also believed that the number of Indians exposed to this digitally altered content is much higher as many people were unable to distinguish between real and fake content.&nbsp;

According to the study, nearly eight of 10 (80 per cent) people are more concerned about deepfakes than they were last year.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-criminalise-creation-of-sexually-explicit-deepfake-images-712010">UK to criminalise creation of sexually explicit ‘deepfake’ images</a>

At least 31 per cent of respondents also said they believe that the influence of deepfakes on the country’s general elections is one of the most concerning issues related to AI-powered technology, as per&nbsp;the report.&nbsp;

According to the McAfee study, 64 per cent of respondents believe that AI has made it harder to spot online scams as the technology becomes more sophisticated and highlighted the challenges posed by deepfake technology in detecting fraudulent activities.

The potential uses of deepfakes&nbsp;include cyberbullying (55 per cent), fake pornography (52 per cent), scams (49 per cent), impersonation of public figures (44 per cent), erosion of media trust (37 per cent), electoral influence (31 per cent), and historical distortion (27 per cent).

<h2>Victims of scams</h2>

At least 38 per cent of people have reportedly encountered deepfake scams. Out of which 18 per cent of them&nbsp;said that they have been directly impacted by such scams with monetary losses and personal data compromise being common outcomes.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-ranveer-singh-files-fir-against-the-viral-ai-generated-deep-fake-video-featuring-him-713824">Ranveer Singh files FIR against the viral AI-generated deepfake video featuring him</a>

Around 57 per cent mistook deepfake celebrity content for reality and at least 31 per cent faced financial losses as a result, according to the report.&nbsp;

This comes as misinformation and disinformation have become a major concern after recent notable incidents involving public figures like Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Aamir Khan, and Ranveer Singh.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

More than 75 per cent of Indians have encountered deepfake content in the past year or so, and a significant number of people were unable to spot real and artificial intelligence (AI)-generated content, according to a recent report by the American global computer security software company, McAfee.

More than 75 per cent of Indians have encountered deepfake content in the past year or so, and a significant number of people were unable to spot real and artificial intelligence (AI)-generated content, according to a recent report by the American global computer security software company, McAfee. One in four Indians believed political deepfakes were real The study by MSI-ACI involved 7,000 consumers from across several countries like India, Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, France, and Germany, to examine the impact of AI and technology. Notably, with 75 per cent of people saying that they have encountered deepfake content in the past year or so, only 30 per cent of respondents feel confident in their ability to distinguish between real and fake content. WATCH | Deepfake of Marcos urges combat with China In a more concerning finding of the study, which was conducted in January and February, McAfee found that nearly one in four (22 per cent) Indians surveyed said that they had encountered a political deepfake including video, image, or recording of a candidate which they thought was initially true. This comes as India is in the midst of holding the world’s largest elections with nearly one billion voters headed to the polls and the impact of this deepfake content on their decisions would be difficult to know. However, it is also believed that the number of Indians exposed to this digitally altered content is much higher as many people were unable to distinguish between real and fake content. According to the study, nearly eight of 10 (80 per cent) people are more concerned about deepfakes than they were last year. Also Read | UK to criminalise creation of sexually explicit ‘deepfake’ images At least 31 per cent of respondents also said they believe that the influence of deepfakes on the country’s general elections is one of the most concerning issues related to AI-powered technology, as per the report. According to the McAfee study, 64 per cent of respondents believe that AI has made it harder to spot online scams as the technology becomes more sophisticated and highlighted the challenges posed by deepfake technology in detecting fraudulent activities. The potential uses of deepfakes include cyberbullying (55 per cent), fake pornography (52 per cent), scams (49 per cent), impersonation of public figures (44 per cent), erosion of media trust (37 per cent), electoral influence (31 per cent), and historical distortion (27 per cent). Victims of scams At least 38 per cent of people have reportedly encountered deepfake scams. Out of which 18 per cent of them said that they have been directly impacted by such scams with monetary losses and personal data compromise being common outcomes. Also Read | Ranveer Singh files FIR against the viral AI-generated deepfake video featuring him Around 57 per cent mistook deepfake celebrity content for reality and at least 31 per cent faced financial losses as a result, according to the report. This comes as misinformation and disinformation have become a major concern after recent notable incidents involving public figures like Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Aamir Khan, and Ranveer Singh. (With inputs from agencies)

Around 75% Indians have encountered deep fake content in last one year: Report

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Apr 24) hit out at the opposition, claiming that there were reports that the INDIA bloc was discussing a 'one year one PM' formula and that they were busy auctioning for the post of the PM.

Addressing a rally in Madhya Pradesh, PM Modi launched a scathing attack on Congress, accusing the grand old party of "killing the values of social justice" in the name of secularism.&nbsp;

He stated that the Karnataka government had made attempts to pull back the reservation for backward classes by categorising the entire Muslim community as OBCs or Other Backward Classes.

At the rally in Betul, he said there have been some media reports that there is a "discussion going on in the INDI alliance that they are making a 'one year one PM' formula".&nbsp;

"That means one PM in one year, second PM in the second year, third PM in the third year, fourth PM in the fourth year, fifth PM in the fifth year...They are also busy auctioning the Prime Minister's chair," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-samajwadi-party-leader-akhilesh-yadav-to-contest-from-ex-bastion-ups-kannauj-714623">Lok Sabha elections 2024: Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav to contest from ex-bastion Kannauj in UP</a>

He further accused the Congress of "hating" Dalits, backward classes and tribals.

"The dangerous hidden agenda of Congress has now been exposed. Congress, which does vote bank politics in the name of secularism, has also killed the basic spirit of social justice. Now it has become clear how much the Congress party hates Dalits, backward classes and tribals," he said.

"When the Congress government was formed at the Centre, they first introduced religion-based reservation in Andhra Pradesh. But then Congress was not completely successful in its plans. Congress still wants to play that game. To snatch away the share of reservation that OBCs get in Karnataka from the OBC quota, Congress made all the Muslims of the state OBC. This action of Congress is a warning signal for the OBC community of the entire country," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Apr 24) hit out at the opposition, claiming that there were reports that the INDIA bloc was discussing a 'one year one PM' formula and that they were busy auctioning for the post of the PM.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Apr 24) hit out at the opposition, claiming that there were reports that the INDIA bloc was discussing a 'one year one PM' formula and that they were busy auctioning for the post of the PM. Addressing a rally in Madhya Pradesh, PM Modi launched a scathing attack on Congress, accusing the grand old party of "killing the values of social justice" in the name of secularism. He stated that the Karnataka government had made attempts to pull back the reservation for backward classes by categorising the entire Muslim community as OBCs or Other Backward Classes. At the rally in Betul, he said there have been some media reports that there is a "discussion going on in the INDI alliance that they are making a 'one year one PM' formula". "That means one PM in one year, second PM in the second year, third PM in the third year, fourth PM in the fourth year, fifth PM in the fifth year...They are also busy auctioning the Prime Minister's chair," he said. Also read: Lok Sabha elections 2024: Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav to contest from ex-bastion Kannauj in UP He further accused the Congress of "hating" Dalits, backward classes and tribals. "The dangerous hidden agenda of Congress has now been exposed. Congress, which does vote bank politics in the name of secularism, has also killed the basic spirit of social justice. Now it has become clear how much the Congress party hates Dalits, backward classes and tribals," he said. "When the Congress government was formed at the Centre, they first introduced religion-based reservation in Andhra Pradesh. But then Congress was not completely successful in its plans. Congress still wants to play that game. To snatch away the share of reservation that OBCs get in Karnataka from the OBC quota, Congress made all the Muslims of the state OBC. This action of Congress is a warning signal for the OBC community of the entire country," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi launches scathing attack on INDIA, says opposition bloc considering 'one year one PM' formula

Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh received a hero's welcome upon return to the country as fans swamped the Chennai airport, waiting to catch a glimpse of the youngest challenger to the world title, following his triumph at the Candidates Chess Tournament in Toronto.&nbsp;

The 17-year-old chess prodigy was greeted by hundreds of students from the&nbsp;Velammal Vidyalaya, the school where he studies. The crowd gathered an hour before his plane landed at 3 am and was immediately flanked from all sides as some garlanded the teenager.&nbsp;

"I feel very happy for this homecoming, this is a special achievement. I was in a good space since the beginning of the tournament, I had full confidence that I will emerge top in this tournament and luck was on my side as well," Gukesh told media at the airport.&nbsp;

"It's good to see so many people enjoy chess...I thank the Tamil Nadu government. I thank my Appa, Amma, coach, friends, family, sponsor and my school for being alongside me and playing an amazing role in helping me win this tournament," he added.

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VIDEO | Chess grandmaster Gukesh Dommaraju received a warm welcome as he arrived at Chennai airport late last night. 
 
Gukesh became the youngest challenger to the world title following his triumph at the prestigious Candidates Chess Tournament in Toronto. 
 
(Full video available… <a href="https://t.co/17RNu5xHIm">pic.twitter.com/17RNu5xHIm</a>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1783330409725444324?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Velammal students at the airport, all set to welcome Gukesh. <a href="https://t.co/PVVnZhg1XY">pic.twitter.com/PVVnZhg1XY</a>
— Swaroop Swaminathan (@arseinho) <a href="https://twitter.com/arseinho/status/1783238313706483826?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Gukesh won the Candidates after drawing the final round against USA's Hikaru Nakamura after 14 rounds, spread across three weeks.

Prior to the match, Gukesh needed a win against Nakamura to win the tournament but a draw between Fabiano Caruana and Ian Nepomniachtchi meant a draw against the American was enough for the tournament victory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-meet-the-man-behind-d-gukeshs-meteoric-rise-714277">Watch | India: Meet the man behind D Gukesh's meteoric rise</a>

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The Indian star had entered the tournament as the third youngest behind legends Bobby Fischer and Magnus Carlsen. Gukesh, however, went one step up to win the whole tournament despite not being considered a favourite to win the tournament by many.

The youngster has a short turnaround as he gears to face&nbsp;Chinese grandmaster Ding Liren, 14 years older than him, at the World Championship match in two weeks time.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh received a hero's welcome upon return to the country as fans swamped the Chennai airport, waiting to catch a glimpse of the youngest challenger to the world title, following his triumph at the Candidates Chess Tournament in Toronto.

Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh received a hero's welcome upon return to the country as fans swamped the Chennai airport, waiting to catch a glimpse of the youngest challenger to the world title, following his triumph at the Candidates Chess Tournament in Toronto. The 17-year-old chess prodigy was greeted by hundreds of students from the Velammal Vidyalaya, the school where he studies. The crowd gathered an hour before his plane landed at 3 am and was immediately flanked from all sides as some garlanded the teenager. "I feel very happy for this homecoming, this is a special achievement. I was in a good space since the beginning of the tournament, I had full confidence that I will emerge top in this tournament and luck was on my side as well," Gukesh told media at the airport. "It's good to see so many people enjoy chess...I thank the Tamil Nadu government. I thank my Appa, Amma, coach, friends, family, sponsor and my school for being alongside me and playing an amazing role in helping me win this tournament," he added. VIDEO | Chess grandmaster Gukesh Dommaraju received a warm welcome as he arrived at Chennai airport late last night. Gukesh became the youngest challenger to the world title following his triumph at the prestigious Candidates Chess Tournament in Toronto. (Full video available… pic.twitter.com/17RNu5xHIm — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 25, 2024 × Velammal students at the airport, all set to welcome Gukesh. pic.twitter.com/PVVnZhg1XY — Swaroop Swaminathan (@arseinho) April 24, 2024 × Gukesh won the Candidates after drawing the final round against USA's Hikaru Nakamura after 14 rounds, spread across three weeks. Prior to the match, Gukesh needed a win against Nakamura to win the tournament but a draw between Fabiano Caruana and Ian Nepomniachtchi meant a draw against the American was enough for the tournament victory. Watch | India: Meet the man behind D Gukesh's meteoric rise × The Indian star had entered the tournament as the third youngest behind legends Bobby Fischer and Magnus Carlsen. Gukesh, however, went one step up to win the whole tournament despite not being considered a favourite to win the tournament by many. The youngster has a short turnaround as he gears to face Chinese grandmaster Ding Liren, 14 years older than him, at the World Championship match in two weeks time. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Candidates champion Gukesh D receives hero's welcome upon India return

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) aims to achieve 'debris-free' space missions by 2030. ISRO announced in late March that one of its satellite missions "practically left zero debris in orbit" after they lowered a spent rocket stage to burn up in Earth's atmosphere during re-entry.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) aims to achieve 'debris-free' space missions by 2030. ISRO announced in late March that one of its satellite missions "practically left zero debris in orbit" after they lowered a spent rocket stage to burn up in Earth's atmosphere during re-entry. Chairman S Somnath said last week that they will use similar deorbiting techniques to make future missions "debris-free" by the end of this decade. In a session hosted by the Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordinating Committee (IADC), Somnath said, "Over the years, sufficient skill has been developed within ISRO in dealing with topics related to debris management." He added, "We want to make sure that for all the spacecraft we are likely to launch in the future, we will be taking action to make sure that we deorbit and bring it to a safe location." IADC has 13 spacefaring member nations. Currently, India has 54 spacecraft in orbit, excluding non-functional satellites. Of these, 13 were deorbited for reentry into Earth's atmosphere last year. In February, ISRO lowered an Earth-observation satellite named Cartostat-2, launched in 2007, for a controlled atmospheric reentry over the Indian Ocean. As per predictions, all major parts of the satellite vapourised during the event. ALSO READ | Crater-filled Moon and faint Earth in the background: Chinese satellites beam eerie image from space However, this may not always be the case as it's tough to foretell whether a certain satellite will burn entirely during reentry. Scientists are realising that more entities endure the journey to the surface than previously thought, Space.com reported. Last month, a piece of debris from a pallet of used batteries thrown overboard from the International Space Station slammed into a home in Florida. This proved NASA's prediction wrong that it would burn up completely in space. Approximately 30,000 objects in low Earth orbit are larger than a softball, and millions of smaller objects are less than a centimetre in size. These objects can circle the Earth at speeds that can reach up to ten times that of a bullet. The primary source of space junk is owing to spent rocket stages, dead satellites, and malfunctioning satellites which have been abandoned in their orbits around Earth. These abandoned objects have caused collisions and accidental explosions which have prompted space agencies and private companies to intentionally lower their satellites for atmospheric reentries. (With inputs from agencies)

India eyes 'debris-free' space mission by the end of decade, says ISRO Chairman

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Apr 21) took a swipe at the Congress stating that the grand old party, which has in the past won 400 seats, is at present not even in a condition to contest from 300 seats in the Lok Sabha polls.

He further called the party a "symbol of instability."

While addressing a public rally in Rajasthan's Jalore, PM Modi said that the people of the country are punishing the Congress for its "sins".

"You have given your blessings to BJP every time, this time too, the people of Jalore-Sirohi are saying 'Phir ek baar Modi sarkar'. In the first phase of polling for the Lok Sabha elections, half of Rajasthan has taught a good lesson to the Congress party. The patriotic people of Rajasthan know that Congress couldn't provide a strong government in the Centre. Their government used to run on remote control. The country does not want the conditions that existed before 2014 to return again," the Indian prime minister said.

He then, further making an apparent reference to Sonia Gandhi, said that some opposition leaders left the Lok Sabha and moved to the Rajya Sabha as they had no courage to contest elections.

"The Congress party itself is responsible for the condition it has reached today. Earlier, Rajasthan sent former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to Rajya Sabha, and now you have another leader of Congress in Rajya Sabha (Sonia Gandhi). People who knew that they could not win ran away from the race and reached Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan. Congress hollowed the country by spreading the termites of 'parivaarwad' and corruption. The youth of the country is so angry with Congress that it doesn't want to see their face again," the PM said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-leader-launches-scathing-attack-on-bjp-osama-bin-laden-gabbar-singh-are-preaching-non-violence-713674">AAP leader launches scathing attack on BJP; 'Osama Bin Laden &amp; Gabbar Singh are preaching non-violence'</a>

Calling the Congress party a symbol of instability, he said that its alliance will never be able to run the country properly.

"Congress was in power for 60 years; once they used to win 400 seats, but today they can't even find candidates for 300 seats. They are paying the price of their wrongdoing. Now they have made an opportunistic alliance in the name of the INDIA bloc which got its wings clipped before it could take flight. The so-called allies are contesting against each other in the states and at least in 25 per cent of seats," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

<h2>'Numbers needed to stop BJP are there,' says Mallikarjun Kharge</h2>

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, reacting to PM Modi's remarks where he alleged that the party was incapable of contesting on 300 seats in the Lok Sabha elections, asserted that the numbers required to dethrone BJP are with them.

"Let him (PM Modi) speak whatever he wants to. I am not here to answer his questions. The number needed to stop them (BJP) are there with us," Kharge told news agency ANI.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Apr 21) took a swipe at the Congress stating that the grand old party, which has in the past won 400 seats, is at present not even in a condition to contest from 300 seats in the Lok Sabha polls.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Apr 21) took a swipe at the Congress stating that the grand old party, which has in the past won 400 seats, is at present not even in a condition to contest from 300 seats in the Lok Sabha polls. He further called the party a "symbol of instability." While addressing a public rally in Rajasthan's Jalore, PM Modi said that the people of the country are punishing the Congress for its "sins". "You have given your blessings to BJP every time, this time too, the people of Jalore-Sirohi are saying 'Phir ek baar Modi sarkar'. In the first phase of polling for the Lok Sabha elections, half of Rajasthan has taught a good lesson to the Congress party. The patriotic people of Rajasthan know that Congress couldn't provide a strong government in the Centre. Their government used to run on remote control. The country does not want the conditions that existed before 2014 to return again," the Indian prime minister said. He then, further making an apparent reference to Sonia Gandhi, said that some opposition leaders left the Lok Sabha and moved to the Rajya Sabha as they had no courage to contest elections. "The Congress party itself is responsible for the condition it has reached today. Earlier, Rajasthan sent former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to Rajya Sabha, and now you have another leader of Congress in Rajya Sabha (Sonia Gandhi). People who knew that they could not win ran away from the race and reached Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan. Congress hollowed the country by spreading the termites of 'parivaarwad' and corruption. The youth of the country is so angry with Congress that it doesn't want to see their face again," the PM said. Also read: AAP leader launches scathing attack on BJP; 'Osama Bin Laden & Gabbar Singh are preaching non-violence' Calling the Congress party a symbol of instability, he said that its alliance will never be able to run the country properly. "Congress was in power for 60 years; once they used to win 400 seats, but today they can't even find candidates for 300 seats. They are paying the price of their wrongdoing. Now they have made an opportunistic alliance in the name of the INDIA bloc which got its wings clipped before it could take flight. The so-called allies are contesting against each other in the states and at least in 25 per cent of seats," PM Modi said. 'Numbers needed to stop BJP are there,' says Mallikarjun Kharge Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, reacting to PM Modi's remarks where he alleged that the party was incapable of contesting on 300 seats in the Lok Sabha elections, asserted that the numbers required to dethrone BJP are with them. "Let him (PM Modi) speak whatever he wants to. I am not here to answer his questions. The number needed to stop them (BJP) are there with us," Kharge told news agency ANI. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi hits out at Congress, says 'party incapable of contesting on 300 seats in Lok Sabha polls'

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Apr 20) took a dig at Rahul Gandhi, stating that the Congress leader will lose his Wayanad seat in Kerala this Lok Sabha elections, just like he lost Amethi in 2019.

While addressing a rally at Nanded in Maharashtra, the Indian prime minister claimed&nbsp;that as per the information he received after the first phase of Lok Sabha polls concluded, the voting was one-sided in favour of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

"After losing Amethi, the Congress' sahabzade will lose Wayanad as well. So he will have to look for a safe seat after April 26," PM Modi said referring to Rahul Gandhi.

Further making an apparent reference to Sonia Gandhi, he said that some opposition leaders left the Lok Sabha and moved to the Rajya Sabha as they had no courage to contest the elections.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-hits-out-at-rahul-gandhi-akhilesh-yadav-do-shehzade-ki-jodi-713147">Also read:&nbsp;Film 'do shehzade ki jodi' rejected by people: PM Modi takes a swipe at Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav</a>

"For the first time, the family will not vote for a Congress candidate in the constituency where they live as there is no party candidate there," he said.

PM Modi then said that he spent a decade fixing the Congress regime's bad governance.

"A lot of work needs to be done," he added.

"The agriculture crisis did not happen now. It happened because of the flawed policies of Congress," he added.

He then hit out at the INDIA bloc stating that the opposition had no face to project and the people did not know whom to trust the country's future with.

"They may claim anything, but the reality is that Congress leaders have accepted defeat even before the announcement of polls," he said.

The Indian prime minister then said that the INDIA bloc constituents were contesting the elections against each other in 25 per cent of seats.

"After (the election results on) June 4, they will be fighting more with each other," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Apr 20) took a dig at Rahul Gandhi, stating that the Congress leader will lose his Wayanad seat in Kerala this Lok Sabha elections, just like he lost Amethi in 2019.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Apr 20) took a dig at Rahul Gandhi, stating that the Congress leader will lose his Wayanad seat in Kerala this Lok Sabha elections, just like he lost Amethi in 2019. While addressing a rally at Nanded in Maharashtra, the Indian prime minister claimed that as per the information he received after the first phase of Lok Sabha polls concluded, the voting was one-sided in favour of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). "After losing Amethi, the Congress' sahabzade will lose Wayanad as well. So he will have to look for a safe seat after April 26," PM Modi said referring to Rahul Gandhi. Further making an apparent reference to Sonia Gandhi, he said that some opposition leaders left the Lok Sabha and moved to the Rajya Sabha as they had no courage to contest the elections. Also read: Film 'do shehzade ki jodi' rejected by people: PM Modi takes a swipe at Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav "For the first time, the family will not vote for a Congress candidate in the constituency where they live as there is no party candidate there," he said. PM Modi then said that he spent a decade fixing the Congress regime's bad governance. "A lot of work needs to be done," he added. "The agriculture crisis did not happen now. It happened because of the flawed policies of Congress," he added. He then hit out at the INDIA bloc stating that the opposition had no face to project and the people did not know whom to trust the country's future with. "They may claim anything, but the reality is that Congress leaders have accepted defeat even before the announcement of polls," he said. The Indian prime minister then said that the INDIA bloc constituents were contesting the elections against each other in 25 per cent of seats. "After (the election results on) June 4, they will be fighting more with each other," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi takes a swipe at Rahul Gandhi, says Congress' 'sahabzade' will lose Wayanad seat

As the voters in the world’s largest democracy headed to the polls, six districts in the Indian state of Nagaland, on Friday (Apr 19) reported zero per cent voter turnout following the election boycott called by the Eastern Nagaland People’s Front (ENPO).&nbsp;

<h2>Nagaland Lok Sabha Elections Phase 1</h2>

Nagaland, which has only one Lok Sabha seat, wrapped up its voting in the first and only phase. However, polling personnel in six eastern districts of Nagaland waited for nine hours in booths, but none of the over 400,000 voters they were expecting showed up.&nbsp;

The polling started at 7:00 am (local time) hours after a ‘public emergency’ declared by the ENPO which demanded a separate administration of Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) with more financial autonomy.&nbsp;

The ENPO is the apex body of the seven tribal organisations in the eastern region. A report by PTI citing officials said there was no movement of people or vehicles on major streets in eastern Nagaland.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/nagaland-lok-sabha-elections-2024-check-schedule-phases-constituencies-candidates-and-all-you-need-to-know-705112">Nagaland Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Date, schedule, phase, constituencies, candidates and all you need to know</a>

Between 7:00 am and 4:00 pm (local time), the Additional Chief Electoral Officer of Nagaland Awa Loring said that the polling personnel were present in the 738 polling stations in the region.&nbsp;

The six districts in question have 400,632 out of the 13.2 million voters in the state.&nbsp;

Notably, a report by news agency PTI citing sources at the chief electoral officer’s office said the 20 MLAs of Nagaland also did not show up to vote in those nine hours.&nbsp;

<h2>No issue with the demand: CM</h2>

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, on Friday, said that the state government does not have a problem with the ENPO’s demand for FNT and has recommended an autonomous body so that the region gets sufficient economic packages.&nbsp;

Rio, speaking to reporters after casting his vote at his village in Touphema, said that he&nbsp;had accepted the draft working paper for FNT which was handed over to him in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

The group has demanded&nbsp;separation after alleging that the successive governments did not bring about socio-economic development in the region.

<h2>‘Undue influence’</h2>

Nagaland Chief Electoral Officer Vayasan R issued a show cause notice to the ENPO, on Thursday (Apr 18) night after it called for boycotting the vote.&nbsp;

Under sub-section (1) of Section 171C of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), “Whoever voluntarily interferes or attempts to interfere with the free exercise of any electoral right commits the offence of undue influence at an election.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mizoram-security-personnel-succumbs-to-cardiac-arrest-while-on-election-duty-713152">Mizoram: Security personnel succumbs to cardiac arrest while on election duty</a>

However, the ENPO president Tsapikiu Sangtam on Friday claimed that it does not apply in this context, saying that the public notice aimed to “reduce the possibility of disturbances in the Eastern Nagaland region, which is under our jurisdiction, and the risk linked with gatherings of anti-social elements.”&nbsp;

“Given that the shutdown was a voluntary initiative by the people, there was no question of coercion or enforcement by the ENPO or any other authority,” it added.&nbsp;

The notice was issued on Thursday night hours before the election which imposed an indefinite total shutdown in the eastern part of the state.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

As the voters in the world’s largest democracy headed to the polls, six districts in the Indian state of Nagaland, on Friday (Apr 19) reported zero per cent voter turnout following the election boycott called by the Eastern Nagaland People’s Front (ENPO).

As the voters in the world’s largest democracy headed to the polls, six districts in the Indian state of Nagaland, on Friday (Apr 19) reported zero per cent voter turnout following the election boycott called by the Eastern Nagaland People’s Front (ENPO). Nagaland Lok Sabha Elections Phase 1 Nagaland, which has only one Lok Sabha seat, wrapped up its voting in the first and only phase. However, polling personnel in six eastern districts of Nagaland waited for nine hours in booths, but none of the over 400,000 voters they were expecting showed up. The polling started at 7:00 am (local time) hours after a ‘public emergency’ declared by the ENPO which demanded a separate administration of Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) with more financial autonomy. The ENPO is the apex body of the seven tribal organisations in the eastern region. A report by PTI citing officials said there was no movement of people or vehicles on major streets in eastern Nagaland. Also Read | Nagaland Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Date, schedule, phase, constituencies, candidates and all you need to know Between 7:00 am and 4:00 pm (local time), the Additional Chief Electoral Officer of Nagaland Awa Loring said that the polling personnel were present in the 738 polling stations in the region. The six districts in question have 400,632 out of the 13.2 million voters in the state. Notably, a report by news agency PTI citing sources at the chief electoral officer’s office said the 20 MLAs of Nagaland also did not show up to vote in those nine hours. No issue with the demand: CM Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, on Friday, said that the state government does not have a problem with the ENPO’s demand for FNT and has recommended an autonomous body so that the region gets sufficient economic packages. Rio, speaking to reporters after casting his vote at his village in Touphema, said that he had accepted the draft working paper for FNT which was handed over to him in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The group has demanded separation after alleging that the successive governments did not bring about socio-economic development in the region. ‘Undue influence’ Nagaland Chief Electoral Officer Vayasan R issued a show cause notice to the ENPO, on Thursday (Apr 18) night after it called for boycotting the vote. Under sub-section (1) of Section 171C of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), “Whoever voluntarily interferes or attempts to interfere with the free exercise of any electoral right commits the offence of undue influence at an election.” Also Read | Mizoram: Security personnel succumbs to cardiac arrest while on election duty However, the ENPO president Tsapikiu Sangtam on Friday claimed that it does not apply in this context, saying that the public notice aimed to “reduce the possibility of disturbances in the Eastern Nagaland region, which is under our jurisdiction, and the risk linked with gatherings of anti-social elements.” “Given that the shutdown was a voluntary initiative by the people, there was no question of coercion or enforcement by the ENPO or any other authority,” it added. The notice was issued on Thursday night hours before the election which imposed an indefinite total shutdown in the eastern part of the state. (With inputs from agencies)

Nagaland Lok Sabha Elections Phase 1: Nearly zero per cent voting recorded in six districts

Maharashtra Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 1 voting: The general elections in the Indian state of Maharashtra, which has the second-highest number of Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian parliament) seats, is underway on&nbsp;Friday (Apr 19) with the first phase of voting.&nbsp;

In Maharashtra, the elections will be held in five phases: April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, and May 20 and the results, like the rest of the country, will be announced on June 4.&nbsp;

<h2>Maharashtra Lok Sabha Election 2024 Phase 1: Constituencies</h2>

Ramtek (SC) 
Nagpur 
Bhandara-Gondiya 
Gadchiroli-Chimur (ST) 
Chandrapur

<h2>Maharashtra Lok Sabha Election 2024 Phase 1: Key candidates</h2>

Nitin Gadkari v/s Vikas Thakre

Nagpur is one of the most prominent parliamentary constituencies, the seat for which is currently held by the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, Nitin Gadkari.&nbsp;

The battle in Nagpur is going to be one of the most watched races not only in the state but in the country.&nbsp;Gadkari&nbsp;has a legion of supporters and is said to be a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) loyalist.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-and-all-you-need-to-know-705128">Click here to know all about&nbsp;Maharashtra Lok Sabha Elections 2024</a>

Once a champion of Congress, in 2014, Gadkari defeated seven-time Member of Parliament (MP) Vilas Muttemwar by a margin of 28 million votes. He also managed to retain his seat after defeating current Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole by 21.6 million votes, in 2019.&nbsp;

In 2024, Gadkari is eyeing a third consecutive term and has placed development at the centre of his campaign. The Union Minister will be up against Congress candidate Vikas Thakre who could potentially challenge Gadkari’s dominance in the city.&nbsp;

The Congress candidate has brought up issues like unemployment, inflation, lack of basic amenities, and local issues on the campaign trail. He has also taken shots at Gadkari saying that only building bridges and metros “do not mean development”.&nbsp;

Thakre has also remained confident that he will be able to sway the voters who have been disenchanted with the BJP’s agenda. “I can guarantee you that my victory will be with a margin of 1 lakh (100,000) votes,” said the Congress candidate.&nbsp;

Chandrapur&nbsp;

The race in Chandrapur is the one to watch, with it historically being the battleground for the two major parties in the country – BJP and Congress.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/lok-sabha-election-2024">Click Here to get the latest updates of the 2024 Lok Sabha election</a>

In 2019, Congress candidate Suresh ‘Balu’ Dhanorkar managed to defeat incumbent three-time MP Hansraj Gangaram Ahir. However, the seat has been vacant since Dhanrokar’s death in May 2023.

Notably, the BJP had maintained control of the constituency since 2004 before its defeat 15 years later. This year, BJP has fielded Sudhir Mungantiwar, a six-time MLA and state minister against Congress candidate Pratibha Dhanorkar.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Maharashtra Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 1 voting: The general elections in the Indian state of Maharashtra, which has the second-highest number of Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian parliament) seats, is underway on Friday (Apr 19) with the first phase of voting.

Maharashtra Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 1 voting: The general elections in the Indian state of Maharashtra, which has the second-highest number of Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian parliament) seats, is underway on Friday (Apr 19) with the first phase of voting. In Maharashtra, the elections will be held in five phases: April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, and May 20 and the results, like the rest of the country, will be announced on June 4. Maharashtra Lok Sabha Election 2024 Phase 1: Constituencies Ramtek (SC) Nagpur Bhandara-Gondiya Gadchiroli-Chimur (ST) Chandrapur Maharashtra Lok Sabha Election 2024 Phase 1: Key candidates Nitin Gadkari v/s Vikas Thakre Nagpur is one of the most prominent parliamentary constituencies, the seat for which is currently held by the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, Nitin Gadkari. The battle in Nagpur is going to be one of the most watched races not only in the state but in the country. Gadkari has a legion of supporters and is said to be a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) loyalist. Click here to know all about Maharashtra Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Once a champion of Congress, in 2014, Gadkari defeated seven-time Member of Parliament (MP) Vilas Muttemwar by a margin of 28 million votes. He also managed to retain his seat after defeating current Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole by 21.6 million votes, in 2019. In 2024, Gadkari is eyeing a third consecutive term and has placed development at the centre of his campaign. The Union Minister will be up against Congress candidate Vikas Thakre who could potentially challenge Gadkari’s dominance in the city. The Congress candidate has brought up issues like unemployment, inflation, lack of basic amenities, and local issues on the campaign trail. He has also taken shots at Gadkari saying that only building bridges and metros “do not mean development”. Thakre has also remained confident that he will be able to sway the voters who have been disenchanted with the BJP’s agenda. “I can guarantee you that my victory will be with a margin of 1 lakh (100,000) votes,” said the Congress candidate. Chandrapur The race in Chandrapur is the one to watch, with it historically being the battleground for the two major parties in the country – BJP and Congress. Click Here to get the latest updates of the 2024 Lok Sabha election In 2019, Congress candidate Suresh ‘Balu’ Dhanorkar managed to defeat incumbent three-time MP Hansraj Gangaram Ahir. However, the seat has been vacant since Dhanrokar’s death in May 2023. Notably, the BJP had maintained control of the constituency since 2004 before its defeat 15 years later. This year, BJP has fielded Sudhir Mungantiwar, a six-time MLA and state minister against Congress candidate Pratibha Dhanorkar. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 1 voting: List of key candidates in Maharashtra

After two daughters of separatist leaders disassociated themselves from their family ideologies, jailed separatist leader Nayeem Khan’s brother, Muneer, has joined mainstream politics to contest the Lok Sabha polls from North Kashmir’s Baramulla district after joining the Jammu Kashmir Nationalist People’s Front (JKNFP).&nbsp;

Jammu Kashmir Nationalist People’s Front Party was launched two years ago and is named similar to Nayeem Khan’s separatist party National Front, which is a banned organisation in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

The party will be contesting the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, and Muneer Khan will be its candidate from the Baramulla constituency in the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-bjp-accuses-congress-of-deploying-deepfake-to-influence-voters-711461">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: BJP accuses Congress of deploying 'deepfake' to influence voters</a>

Muneer Khan, while speaking to reporters after joining mainstream politics, said, “Nayeem Khan is my brother, and that can’t be changed, but in a democratic setup, we all have individual mindsets. We all have different ideologies. I believe we should focus on our new generations so that we create a platform where there is no mainstream and separatism but the welfare of the young.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Muneer further said, “I want to start with a small party and show that with a new party, we will be doing new things and making things easier for the youth. If you stay with separatism, you will only have dead bodies. We are going to write a new era for the youth of Kashmir. Around 30-40 thousand people are jailed, and it's not only my brother. We will focus on education and the economy.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/pm-modi-accuses-opposition-of-spreading-lies-on-electoral-bonds-scheme-everyone-will-regret-it-711561">PM Modi accuses opposition of ‘spreading lies’ on electoral bonds scheme; says ‘everyone will regret it’</a>

Former separatist leader and People’s Conference Chairman Sajad Lone is also fighting from the Baramulla parliamentary constituency. The National Conference has fielded its Vice President and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah from this Lok Sabha seat, while jailed former legislator Engineer Rashid has also announced plans to contest the polls from the Baramulla constituency.

The entry of Muneer Khan has made the contest for this Lok Sabha seat even more interesting. Nayeem Khan, who was a main constituent of Hurriyat in the Kashmir Valley, was arrested by the NIA in 2018 following his involvement in agitation and secessionist activities. 
&nbsp;

After two daughters of separatist leaders disassociated themselves from their family ideologies, jailed separatist leader Nayeem Khan’s brother, Muneer, has joined mainstream politics to contest the Lok Sabha polls from North Kashmir’s Baramulla district after joining the Jammu Kashmir Nationalist People’s Front (JKNFP).

After two daughters of separatist leaders disassociated themselves from their family ideologies, jailed separatist leader Nayeem Khan’s brother, Muneer, has joined mainstream politics to contest the Lok Sabha polls from North Kashmir’s Baramulla district after joining the Jammu Kashmir Nationalist People’s Front (JKNFP). Jammu Kashmir Nationalist People’s Front Party was launched two years ago and is named similar to Nayeem Khan’s separatist party National Front, which is a banned organisation in Jammu and Kashmir. The party will be contesting the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, and Muneer Khan will be its candidate from the Baramulla constituency in the Kashmir Valley. Also Read | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: BJP accuses Congress of deploying 'deepfake' to influence voters Muneer Khan, while speaking to reporters after joining mainstream politics, said, “Nayeem Khan is my brother, and that can’t be changed, but in a democratic setup, we all have individual mindsets. We all have different ideologies. I believe we should focus on our new generations so that we create a platform where there is no mainstream and separatism but the welfare of the young.” Muneer further said, “I want to start with a small party and show that with a new party, we will be doing new things and making things easier for the youth. If you stay with separatism, you will only have dead bodies. We are going to write a new era for the youth of Kashmir. Around 30-40 thousand people are jailed, and it's not only my brother. We will focus on education and the economy.” Also Read | PM Modi accuses opposition of ‘spreading lies’ on electoral bonds scheme; says ‘everyone will regret it’ Former separatist leader and People’s Conference Chairman Sajad Lone is also fighting from the Baramulla parliamentary constituency. The National Conference has fielded its Vice President and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah from this Lok Sabha seat, while jailed former legislator Engineer Rashid has also announced plans to contest the polls from the Baramulla constituency. The entry of Muneer Khan has made the contest for this Lok Sabha seat even more interesting. Nayeem Khan, who was a main constituent of Hurriyat in the Kashmir Valley, was arrested by the NIA in 2018 following his involvement in agitation and secessionist activities.

India: Jailed separatist leader Nayeem Khan’s brother Muneer to contest Lok Sabha polls

Police in the Indian state of Kerala have registered a case against two foreign tourists after they allegedly destroyed pro-Palestine posters put up by members of an Islamist student outfit in the city of Kochi. The video of the incident which has since gone viral shows the two engaging in a heated argument with the locals saying that the posters were “insulting” to the Jewish people.&nbsp;

<h2>What we know about the incident</h2>

On Tuesday (Apr 16), the Kochi city police registered a case against two female foreign tourists after they allegedly tore down pro-Palestine posters put up by members of an Islamist student outfit.&nbsp;

The incident was reported to the police on Monday evening and the women have since been booked under section 153 for deliberate provocation with intent to cause a riot.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/inside-irans-attack-weapons-used-in-operation-truthful-promise-against-israel-712105">Iran used these weapons in 'Operation Truthful Promise,' its first direct attack on Israel</a>

According to reports, the police were reluctant to file a complaint but after a day of protests outside the police station by the members of the Students Islamic Organisation (SIO), they eventually agreed and lodged a complaint.&nbsp;

The pro-Palestine posters were put up by the SIO in front of the Jankar Jetty in Kochi. In the video, the women can be seen getting into an argument with the members of the Islamist student outfit after reportedly tearing down the posters.&nbsp;

“I did it for the Jewish people. You are promoting propaganda and lies,” one of the tourists can be heard saying to the locals in the clip.&nbsp;

<h2>Political controversy</h2>

Last year, the former head of the Palestinian militant group Hamas, Khaled Mashal, virtually addressed a pro-Palestine rally in Kerala’s Malappuram.&nbsp;

The event in question was held around 20 days after Hamas had attacked southern Israel and killed around 1,200 people, according to Israeli officials and took hundreds of hostages with them back to Gaza.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-of-massive-response-if-israel-retaliates-as-uk-says-israelis-will-do-so-712300">Iran warns of ‘massive response’ if Israel retaliates as UK says Israelis will do so</a>

Israel has since retaliated and its offensive in Gaza has killed more than 33,000 people, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.&nbsp;

The event in Kerala’s Malappuram was organised by Solidarity Youth Movement, the youth wing of Jamaat-Islami and triggered a political row with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accusing the opposition INDIA alliance of ‘anti-national’ activities in the state.

At the time, Kerala BJP president K Surendran took to X and called the situation alarming, asking the Kerala Police to take action saying that under the guise of ‘Save Palestine’ they are glorifying a “terrorist organisation, and its leaders as ‘warriors.’ This is unacceptable!”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Police in the Indian state of Kerala have registered a case against two foreign tourists after they allegedly destroyed pro-Palestine posters put up by members of an Islamist student outfit in the city of Kochi.

Police in the Indian state of Kerala have registered a case against two foreign tourists after they allegedly destroyed pro-Palestine posters put up by members of an Islamist student outfit in the city of Kochi. The video of the incident which has since gone viral shows the two engaging in a heated argument with the locals saying that the posters were “insulting” to the Jewish people. What we know about the incident On Tuesday (Apr 16), the Kochi city police registered a case against two female foreign tourists after they allegedly tore down pro-Palestine posters put up by members of an Islamist student outfit. The incident was reported to the police on Monday evening and the women have since been booked under section 153 for deliberate provocation with intent to cause a riot. Also Read | Iran used these weapons in 'Operation Truthful Promise,' its first direct attack on Israel According to reports, the police were reluctant to file a complaint but after a day of protests outside the police station by the members of the Students Islamic Organisation (SIO), they eventually agreed and lodged a complaint. The pro-Palestine posters were put up by the SIO in front of the Jankar Jetty in Kochi. In the video, the women can be seen getting into an argument with the members of the Islamist student outfit after reportedly tearing down the posters. “I did it for the Jewish people. You are promoting propaganda and lies,” one of the tourists can be heard saying to the locals in the clip. Political controversy Last year, the former head of the Palestinian militant group Hamas, Khaled Mashal, virtually addressed a pro-Palestine rally in Kerala’s Malappuram. The event in question was held around 20 days after Hamas had attacked southern Israel and killed around 1,200 people, according to Israeli officials and took hundreds of hostages with them back to Gaza. Also Read | Iran warns of ‘massive response’ if Israel retaliates as UK says Israelis will do so Israel has since retaliated and its offensive in Gaza has killed more than 33,000 people, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The event in Kerala’s Malappuram was organised by Solidarity Youth Movement, the youth wing of Jamaat-Islami and triggered a political row with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accusing the opposition INDIA alliance of ‘anti-national’ activities in the state. At the time, Kerala BJP president K Surendran took to X and called the situation alarming, asking the Kerala Police to take action saying that under the guise of ‘Save Palestine’ they are glorifying a “terrorist organisation, and its leaders as ‘warriors.’ This is unacceptable!” (With inputs from agencies)

India: Kerala police book foreign tourists for tearing pro-Palestine posters in Kochi

In a press conference, the United States State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel on Wednesday (April 17) said that they have extended support for reforms to United Nations institutions, which included the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

Commenting on Tesla CEO Elon Musk's statement regarding India not having a permanent seat at the UNSC, Vedant Patel said, "The President has spoken about this before in his remarks to the UN General Assembly, and the Secretary has alluded to this as well. We certainly support reforms to the UN institution, including the Security Council, to make it reflective of the 21st-century world that we live in. I don't have any specifics to offer on what those steps are, but certainly, we recognise that there is a need for reform, but I will leave it at that for now."

<h2>What Elon Musk said about India's permanent seat in UNSC</h2>

Tesla owner Elon Musk in January said that no permanent seat of India in the UNSC is 'absurd.' He added that the nations which have excess power don't wish to relinquish it.&nbsp;

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/revision-needed-elon-musk-throws-weight-behind-indias-bid-for-permanent-seat-at-unsc-682721">&nbsp;‘Revision needed,’ Elon Musk throws weight behind India’s bid for permanent seat at UNSC</a>

In a post on X, Tesla's Musk said, "At some point, there needs to be a revision of the UN bodies. Problem is that those with excess power don't want to give it up. India not having a permanent seat on the Security Council, despite being the most populous country on Earth, is absurd. Africa collectively should also have a permanent seat imo."

<h2>India's long-due demand for UNSC permanent seat</h2>

For a long time, India has been demanding a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council for better representing the developing world's interests.&nbsp;

There has been increasing support from the international community in India's quest for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council.&nbsp;

There are 15 member states in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), which includes five permanent members with veto power and ten non-permanent members get elected every two years.

Watch:&nbsp;Iran attacks Israel: UNSC to hold emergency session on Israeli request

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-attacks-israel-unsc-to-hold-emergency-session-on-israeli-request-711029/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>UNSC permanent members</h2>

The UNSC's five permanent members are:

US

UK

China

France

Russia

The United Nations Security Council's non-permanent members are elected by the UNGA.

India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), ahead of the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections in its election manifesto titled 'Sankalp Patra', promised to pursue the country's permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council.

The BJP, in its manifesto which was released on April 14, said, "We are committed to seeking permanent membership in the UN Security Council to elevate Bharat's position in global decision-making."

(With inputs from agencies)

In a press conference, the United States State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel on Wednesday (April 17) said that they have extended support for reforms to United Nations institutions, which included the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

In a press conference, the United States State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel on Wednesday (April 17) said that they have extended support for reforms to United Nations institutions, which included the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Commenting on Tesla CEO Elon Musk's statement regarding India not having a permanent seat at the UNSC, Vedant Patel said, "The President has spoken about this before in his remarks to the UN General Assembly, and the Secretary has alluded to this as well. We certainly support reforms to the UN institution, including the Security Council, to make it reflective of the 21st-century world that we live in. I don't have any specifics to offer on what those steps are, but certainly, we recognise that there is a need for reform, but I will leave it at that for now." What Elon Musk said about India's permanent seat in UNSC Tesla owner Elon Musk in January said that no permanent seat of India in the UNSC is 'absurd.' He added that the nations which have excess power don't wish to relinquish it. Also Read: ‘Revision needed,’ Elon Musk throws weight behind India’s bid for permanent seat at UNSC In a post on X, Tesla's Musk said, "At some point, there needs to be a revision of the UN bodies. Problem is that those with excess power don't want to give it up. India not having a permanent seat on the Security Council, despite being the most populous country on Earth, is absurd. Africa collectively should also have a permanent seat imo." India's long-due demand for UNSC permanent seat For a long time, India has been demanding a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council for better representing the developing world's interests. There has been increasing support from the international community in India's quest for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council. There are 15 member states in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), which includes five permanent members with veto power and ten non-permanent members get elected every two years. Watch: Iran attacks Israel: UNSC to hold emergency session on Israeli request UNSC permanent members The UNSC's five permanent members are: US UK China France Russia The United Nations Security Council's non-permanent members are elected by the UNGA. India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), ahead of the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections in its election manifesto titled 'Sankalp Patra', promised to pursue the country's permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council. The BJP, in its manifesto which was released on April 14, said, "We are committed to seeking permanent membership in the UN Security Council to elevate Bharat's position in global decision-making." (With inputs from agencies)

United States backs Elon Musk's call for permanent UNSC seat for India

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday (Apr 15) expressed concern over the rise in the deaths of Indian students overseas.

He said that even though such cases were unconnected, as many of the students were killed due to personal reasons and many died in accidents, they were still a matter of huge concern for the government.

Jaishankar on being questioned about the rise in the number of Indian students being targeted in attacks in foreign countries, said, “Obviously, in every case, wherever anything unfortunate has happened to the students, it is of great tragedy for the family, and a big concern for us but...our embassy or consulate has looked at every case and they're actually unconnected."

He then said that embassies have been directed to stay in touch with the students and also provide information to them about the cities and the areas that they should avoid travelling to.

He added that there are 11 lakh to 12 lakh Indian students living in various countries.

“Student welfare is very important. Like I said, every Indian going out, you have Modi's guarantee. Student welfare is particularly important for us,” Jaishankar said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-top-court-seeks-reply-from-ed-on-arvind-kejriwals-plea-against-arrest-in-money-laundering-case-711450">India's top court seeks reply from ED on Arvind Kejriwal's plea against arrest in money laundering case</a>

Jaishankar's remarks come after an Indian student was shot dead inside a car by unidentified individuals in Canada's South Vancouver.

The Vancouver Police released a statement on Sunday saying that 24-year-old Chirag Antil was found dead inside a car after neighbours in the area reported hearing gunshots. The incident took place on Friday (Apr 12), said the police.

"Officers were called to East 55th Avenue and Main Street around 11 pm on April 12 after residents heard the sound of gunshots. Chirag Antil, 24, was found deceased inside a vehicle in the area. No arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing," said the police.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday (Apr 15) expressed concern over the rise in the deaths of Indian students overseas. He said that even though such cases were unconnected, as many of the students were killed due to personal reasons and many died in accidents, they were still a matter of huge concern for the government.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday (Apr 15) expressed concern over the rise in the deaths of Indian students overseas. He said that even though such cases were unconnected, as many of the students were killed due to personal reasons and many died in accidents, they were still a matter of huge concern for the government. Jaishankar on being questioned about the rise in the number of Indian students being targeted in attacks in foreign countries, said, “Obviously, in every case, wherever anything unfortunate has happened to the students, it is of great tragedy for the family, and a big concern for us but...our embassy or consulate has looked at every case and they're actually unconnected." He then said that embassies have been directed to stay in touch with the students and also provide information to them about the cities and the areas that they should avoid travelling to. He added that there are 11 lakh to 12 lakh Indian students living in various countries. “Student welfare is very important. Like I said, every Indian going out, you have Modi's guarantee. Student welfare is particularly important for us,” Jaishankar said. Also read: India's top court seeks reply from ED on Arvind Kejriwal's plea against arrest in money laundering case Jaishankar's remarks come after an Indian student was shot dead inside a car by unidentified individuals in Canada's South Vancouver. The Vancouver Police released a statement on Sunday saying that 24-year-old Chirag Antil was found dead inside a car after neighbours in the area reported hearing gunshots. The incident took place on Friday (Apr 12), said the police. "Officers were called to East 55th Avenue and Main Street around 11 pm on April 12 after residents heard the sound of gunshots. Chirag Antil, 24, was found deceased inside a vehicle in the area. No arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing," said the police. (With inputs from agencies)

Jaishankar expresses concern over rise in deaths of Indian students overseas

The International Monetary Fund slightly raised its outlook for global growth this year to 3.2 per cent, according to the latest World Economic Outlook (WEO) report published Tuesday (Apr 16). Meanwhile, India, according to the WEO report, is expected to grow at&nbsp;6.8 per cent in 2024.&nbsp;

<h2>About the global growth estimates</h2>

The IMF has predicted that the global economy is set for another year of slow but steady growth, with a real GDP growth of 3.2 per cent for 2024 and 2025. “We find that the global economy remains quite resilient,” IMF’s chief economist, Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas told reporters.&nbsp;

He has attributed this resilience to several countries defying the gloomy predictions of recession as central banks hiked interest rates in a bid to combat inflation.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-use-weapons-never-used-before-iran-issues-threat-as-israel-mulls-over-retaliation-711898">‘Will use weapons never used before’: Iran issues threat as Israel mulls over retaliation</a>

The United States-based organisation also noted that several countries are showing less “scarring” after the COVID-19 pandemic and the cost-of-living-crises and reached pre-pandemic level of output quicker than previously predicted.&nbsp;

However, the IMF has also warned about high borrowing costs and the withdrawal of fiscal support which could affect short-term growth. Additionally, the medium-term outlook has remained the weakest in decades due to low productivity and global trade tensions.&nbsp;

<h2>US and other countries</h2>

The global outlook has been raised by 0.1 per cent from the previous estimate in January with the United States being a major driver of growth this year. However, the lingering high inflation could pose a risk to this forecast, according to the report.&nbsp;

The growth predicted for the US economy was raised to 2.7 per cent in 2024, which is 0.6 per cent higher than the previous forecast. This rise has been attributed to stronger-than-expected employment and consumer spending at the end of 2023.&nbsp;

Gourinchas, in the foreword of the report, said that the US has surged past its pre-pandemic growth trend.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, things are not looking good for the eurozone as its growth forecast was lowered from 0.9 per cent to 0.8 per cent, due to weak consumer sentiment in France and Germany, said the IMF report.&nbsp;

Surprisingly, Russia’s 2024 growth forecast was increased to 3.2 per cent from its previous prediction of 2.6 per cent. The growth has partly been attributed to strong oil export revenues and high consumer spending.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/tesla-to-lay-off-around-14000-employees-globally-as-sales-fall-711593">Tesla to lay off around 14,000 employees globally as sales decline</a>

The growth predicted for China remained unchanged at 4.6 per cent for 2024, lower than its 5.2 per cent&nbsp;last year. IMF&nbsp;also warned that the lack of action for the country’s troubled property sector could prolong a downturn and worsen Beijing’s outlook.&nbsp;

<h2>India’s growth forecast raised</h2>

The IMF raised the growth forecast for India to 6.8 per cent for 2024 which is up from the 6.5 per cent it had predicted in its previous update published in January.&nbsp;

However, the growth outlook for 2025 (FY26) remained unchanged at 6.5 per cent in both reports.&nbsp;

“Growth in India is projected to remain strong at 6.8 per cent in 2024 (FY25) and 6.5 per cent in 2025 (FY26), with the robustness reflecting continuing strength in domestic demand and a rising working-age population,” said the IMF in its report.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The International Monetary Fund slightly raised its outlook for global growth this year to 3.2 per cent, according to the latest World Economic Outlook (WEO) report published Tuesday (Apr 16).

The International Monetary Fund slightly raised its outlook for global growth this year to 3.2 per cent, according to the latest World Economic Outlook (WEO) report published Tuesday (Apr 16). Meanwhile, India, according to the WEO report, is expected to grow at 6.8 per cent in 2024. About the global growth estimates The IMF has predicted that the global economy is set for another year of slow but steady growth, with a real GDP growth of 3.2 per cent for 2024 and 2025. “We find that the global economy remains quite resilient,” IMF’s chief economist, Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas told reporters. He has attributed this resilience to several countries defying the gloomy predictions of recession as central banks hiked interest rates in a bid to combat inflation. Also Read | ‘Will use weapons never used before’: Iran issues threat as Israel mulls over retaliation The United States-based organisation also noted that several countries are showing less “scarring” after the COVID-19 pandemic and the cost-of-living-crises and reached pre-pandemic level of output quicker than previously predicted. However, the IMF has also warned about high borrowing costs and the withdrawal of fiscal support which could affect short-term growth. Additionally, the medium-term outlook has remained the weakest in decades due to low productivity and global trade tensions. US and other countries The global outlook has been raised by 0.1 per cent from the previous estimate in January with the United States being a major driver of growth this year. However, the lingering high inflation could pose a risk to this forecast, according to the report. The growth predicted for the US economy was raised to 2.7 per cent in 2024, which is 0.6 per cent higher than the previous forecast. This rise has been attributed to stronger-than-expected employment and consumer spending at the end of 2023. Gourinchas, in the foreword of the report, said that the US has surged past its pre-pandemic growth trend. Meanwhile, things are not looking good for the eurozone as its growth forecast was lowered from 0.9 per cent to 0.8 per cent, due to weak consumer sentiment in France and Germany, said the IMF report. Surprisingly, Russia’s 2024 growth forecast was increased to 3.2 per cent from its previous prediction of 2.6 per cent. The growth has partly been attributed to strong oil export revenues and high consumer spending. Also Read | Tesla to lay off around 14,000 employees globally as sales decline The growth predicted for China remained unchanged at 4.6 per cent for 2024, lower than its 5.2 per cent last year. IMF also warned that the lack of action for the country’s troubled property sector could prolong a downturn and worsen Beijing’s outlook. India’s growth forecast raised The IMF raised the growth forecast for India to 6.8 per cent for 2024 which is up from the 6.5 per cent it had predicted in its previous update published in January. However, the growth outlook for 2025 (FY26) remained unchanged at 6.5 per cent in both reports. “Growth in India is projected to remain strong at 6.8 per cent in 2024 (FY25) and 6.5 per cent in 2025 (FY26), with the robustness reflecting continuing strength in domestic demand and a rising working-age population,” said the IMF in its report. (With inputs from agencies)

IMF raises global growth forecast for 2024; India expected to grow 6.8% in FY25

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hit back at the opposition and accused it of spreading lies around the electoral bonds scheme and said that "everyone will regret it when there is an honest reflection".&nbsp;

In&nbsp;an interview to news agency ANI,&nbsp;PM Modi said that the electoral bonds scheme was launched by his government in a bid to combat the use of unaccounted cash and black money in&nbsp;polls, noting that this was a small plan to achieve the goal and not "the absolute way".

The Supreme Court of India had in a landmark decision in February this year&nbsp;scrapped the electoral bonds.

"There has been a discussion in our country for a long time that (through) black money a dangerous game is there in elections. The play of black money in the country's elections should end, this discussion has been going on for a long time," PM Modi said.

"I wanted that we try something, how can our elections be free from this black money, how can there be transparency? There was a pure thought in my mind. We were looking for a way. We found a small way, we never claimed that this was the absolute way," he added.

<h2>'Opposition is spreading lies'</h2>

He further lashed out at the opposition and accused it of spreading lies stating that out of the 16 companies that gave donations following action by the probe agencies, only 37 per cent of the amount went to BJP and 63 per cent to opposition parties.

"Of these (16 companies) 37 per cent of the amount went to BJP and 63 per cent to opposition parties," PM said.

"There is an ED raid... the donation is made&nbsp;to the opposition, will BJP do this? This means 63 per cent of this amount went to the opposition and you are making allegations against us. Their goal is to keep skirting around and run away," he said.

The Supreme Court in February scrapped the electoral bonds scheme calling it "unconstitutional".

The INDIA opposition bloc leaders have&nbsp;been repeatedly slamming&nbsp;the Union&nbsp;government over the&nbsp;court decision and sharply criticising BJP.

The top court in its decision ordered SBI to stop issuing the electoral bonds.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hit back at the opposition and accused it of spreading lies around the electoral bonds scheme and said that "everyone will regret it when there is an honest reflection".

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hit back at the opposition and accused it of spreading lies around the electoral bonds scheme and said that "everyone will regret it when there is an honest reflection". In an interview to news agency ANI, PM Modi said that the electoral bonds scheme was launched by his government in a bid to combat the use of unaccounted cash and black money in polls, noting that this was a small plan to achieve the goal and not "the absolute way". The Supreme Court of India had in a landmark decision in February this year scrapped the electoral bonds. "There has been a discussion in our country for a long time that (through) black money a dangerous game is there in elections. The play of black money in the country's elections should end, this discussion has been going on for a long time," PM Modi said. "I wanted that we try something, how can our elections be free from this black money, how can there be transparency? There was a pure thought in my mind. We were looking for a way. We found a small way, we never claimed that this was the absolute way," he added. 'Opposition is spreading lies' He further lashed out at the opposition and accused it of spreading lies stating that out of the 16 companies that gave donations following action by the probe agencies, only 37 per cent of the amount went to BJP and 63 per cent to opposition parties. "Of these (16 companies) 37 per cent of the amount went to BJP and 63 per cent to opposition parties," PM said. "There is an ED raid... the donation is made to the opposition, will BJP do this? This means 63 per cent of this amount went to the opposition and you are making allegations against us. Their goal is to keep skirting around and run away," he said. The Supreme Court in February scrapped the electoral bonds scheme calling it "unconstitutional". The INDIA opposition bloc leaders have been repeatedly slamming the Union government over the court decision and sharply criticising BJP. The top court in its decision ordered SBI to stop issuing the electoral bonds. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi accuses opposition of ‘spreading lies’ on electoral bonds scheme; says ‘everyone will regret it’

A wild elephant that fell into a water-filled pit in Kottappady region of Ernakulam district in Kerala on Friday (Apr 12) morning was rescued by the police and the Wildlife Department in the evening on the same day.

Section 144 Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) was announced in the area for 24 hours to tranquilise and rescue the elephant.&nbsp;

The Chief Wildlife Warden, as per ANI reports, had permitted to tranquilise the elephant whenever the weather was suitable.

However, the police rescued the animal without using the tranquiliser.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Wild elephant rescued from the water-filled pit in Kottappady of Ernakulam district in Kerala <a href="https://t.co/i0FWRvLiSq">pic.twitter.com/i0FWRvLiSq</a>
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&nbsp;

Police earlier released a statement saying that they received information about the incident early in the morning.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Kerala: A wild elephant fell into a water-filled pit in Kottappady of Ernakulam district. Efforts are underway to rescue it. 
 
Section 144 CrPC has been announced in the area of Kotappadi panchayat for 24 hours to tranquilise and rescue the elephant. The Chief Wildlife… <a href="https://t.co/gnBardXKV6">pic.twitter.com/gnBardXKV6</a>
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&nbsp;

Earlier, a police official, sharing updates about the situation said, "All the concerned officials have reached the locality. A decision on how to rescue the elephant and transport it safely to the forest will be taken soon."

The well, where the elephant fell inside, was located inside a private rubber plantation and did not have any side walls.

The police and forest officials had cordoned off the area.

Meanwhile, the locals took to the streets and staged demonstrations demanding authorities to come up with a permanent solution after multiple incidents of wild animal incursion into the human habitat were reported in the area.

(With inputs from agencies)

A wild elephant that fell into a water-filled pit in Kottappady region of Ernakulam district in Kerala on Friday (Apr 12) morning was rescued by the police and the Wildlife Department in the evening on the same day.

A wild elephant that fell into a water-filled pit in Kottappady region of Ernakulam district in Kerala on Friday (Apr 12) morning was rescued by the police and the Wildlife Department in the evening on the same day. Section 144 Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) was announced in the area for 24 hours to tranquilise and rescue the elephant. The Chief Wildlife Warden, as per ANI reports, had permitted to tranquilise the elephant whenever the weather was suitable. However, the police rescued the animal without using the tranquiliser. #WATCH | Wild elephant rescued from the water-filled pit in Kottappady of Ernakulam district in Kerala pic.twitter.com/i0FWRvLiSq — ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2024 × Police earlier released a statement saying that they received information about the incident early in the morning. #WATCH | Kerala: A wild elephant fell into a water-filled pit in Kottappady of Ernakulam district. Efforts are underway to rescue it. Section 144 CrPC has been announced in the area of Kotappadi panchayat for 24 hours to tranquilise and rescue the elephant. The Chief Wildlife… pic.twitter.com/gnBardXKV6 — ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2024 × Earlier, a police official, sharing updates about the situation said, "All the concerned officials have reached the locality. A decision on how to rescue the elephant and transport it safely to the forest will be taken soon." The well, where the elephant fell inside, was located inside a private rubber plantation and did not have any side walls. The police and forest officials had cordoned off the area. Meanwhile, the locals took to the streets and staged demonstrations demanding authorities to come up with a permanent solution after multiple incidents of wild animal incursion into the human habitat were reported in the area. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: Wild elephant falls into well inside private rubber plantation in Kerala

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Friday (Apr 12) sent Bharat Rasthra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha to Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) custody till April 15 over the Delhi excise policy case.

Earlier on Friday, CBI stated that Kavitha did not give satisfactory responses on being questioned about the payment of kickbacks made to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to sway the excise policy for Delhi to the advantage of a liquor lobby.&nbsp;

Special Judge Kaveri Baweja, after hearing arguments of CBI and Kavitha’s counsel, passed the order.

Former Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao's daughter Kavitha was arrested by CBI on Thursday (Apr 11) in Delhi's Tihar Jail where she was imprisoned following her arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the month of March over her alleged involvement in a money laundering case related to the Delhi excise policy scam.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-cbi-arrests-brs-leader-k-kavitha-over-delhi-liquor-policy-scam-710150">Also read: India: CBI arrests BRS leader K Kavitha in connection with Delhi liquor policy scam</a>

CBI remand application stated, "Ms Kavitha Kalvakuntla was required to be arrested in the instant case to conduct her custodial interrogation for confronting her with the evidence and witnesses to unearth the larger conspiracy hatched among the accused/suspect persons regarding formulation and implementation of the Excise Policy, as well as to establish the money trail of ill-gotten money generated and to establish the role of other accused/suspect persons including public servants as well as to unearth the facts which are in her exclusive knowledge."

While seeking Kavitha's custodial remand, CBI said to the court that one of the firms under Aurbindo Group made a payment of Rs 14 crore via a bank transaction in July 2021.&nbsp;

The BRS leader's attorneys opposed CBI's remand application and argued that the arrest by the central probe agency was without any approval, permission or imprimatur of the Court.

"K Kavitha was lying in custody in the PMLA case. This Court is exercising distinct jurisdiction in the capacity of Special Judge (PMLA) vis-a-vis Special Judge (CBI). Both jurisdictions cannot overlap and the CBI cannot use them to violate the procedures established by law," the lawyers submitted.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Friday (Apr 12) sent Bharat Rasthra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha to Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) custody till April 15 over the Delhi excise policy case.

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Friday (Apr 12) sent Bharat Rasthra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha to Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) custody till April 15 over the Delhi excise policy case. Earlier on Friday, CBI stated that Kavitha did not give satisfactory responses on being questioned about the payment of kickbacks made to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to sway the excise policy for Delhi to the advantage of a liquor lobby. Special Judge Kaveri Baweja, after hearing arguments of CBI and Kavitha’s counsel, passed the order. Former Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao's daughter Kavitha was arrested by CBI on Thursday (Apr 11) in Delhi's Tihar Jail where she was imprisoned following her arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the month of March over her alleged involvement in a money laundering case related to the Delhi excise policy scam. Also read: India: CBI arrests BRS leader K Kavitha in connection with Delhi liquor policy scam CBI remand application stated, "Ms Kavitha Kalvakuntla was required to be arrested in the instant case to conduct her custodial interrogation for confronting her with the evidence and witnesses to unearth the larger conspiracy hatched among the accused/suspect persons regarding formulation and implementation of the Excise Policy, as well as to establish the money trail of ill-gotten money generated and to establish the role of other accused/suspect persons including public servants as well as to unearth the facts which are in her exclusive knowledge." While seeking Kavitha's custodial remand, CBI said to the court that one of the firms under Aurbindo Group made a payment of Rs 14 crore via a bank transaction in July 2021. The BRS leader's attorneys opposed CBI's remand application and argued that the arrest by the central probe agency was without any approval, permission or imprimatur of the Court. "K Kavitha was lying in custody in the PMLA case. This Court is exercising distinct jurisdiction in the capacity of Special Judge (PMLA) vis-a-vis Special Judge (CBI). Both jurisdictions cannot overlap and the CBI cannot use them to violate the procedures established by law," the lawyers submitted. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Delhi court sends BRS leader K Kavitha to CBI custody till April 15

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday (Apr 11) launched a scathing attack on Pakistan stating that if the country finds itself incapable of eliminating terrorism originating from its territory, it must take New Delhi's help.

Singh further warned Islamabad to be ready to face dire consequences if it tries to destabilise India via terrorism. &nbsp;

"If Pakistan attempts to destabilize India through terrorism, it will have to face the consequences. Pakistan needs to control terrorism. If Pakistan thinks that it is not capable of controlling it, if they feel they are not capable, then India is a neighbour, if they want to take India’s help, they should. India is ready to provide all assistance to combat terrorism,” he said in an interview with news agency ANI.

The Union defence minister further said that if Pakistan's intentions are clear, it must take strong action against cross-border terrorism.

"They are our neighbours, and if their intention is clear that terrorism should end, they should do that themselves or take help from India…we both can end terrorism. But this is their call, I am just giving a suggestion," he added. &nbsp;

<h2>'Will not tolerate terrorists to operate within Indian borders'</h2>

The veteran BJP leader then said that India will not allow terrorists to operate within the country's borders and that it will do everything to stop it.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-cbi-arrests-brs-leader-k-kavitha-over-delhi-liquor-policy-scam-710150">India: CBI arrests BRS leader K Kavitha in connection with Delhi liquor policy scam</a>

"We won't allow terrorists to operate within Indian borders. We will do everything to stop it," he said. &nbsp;Asked if such action can be taken across the border, he said, “We will see what happens”.

His firm remarks come weeks after a report by the British daily The Guardian claimed that India conducted targeted killings of terrorists in neighbouring Pakistan.&nbsp;

Delhi rebuffed the claims calling them "false and malicious anti-India propaganda".&nbsp;

<h2>'Could not perform mother's last rites,' says Singh</h2>

Hitting out at the opposition over its accusations of an "undeclared emergency" under the BJP-led government, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh&nbsp;recalled the arrests during the Emergency imposed by the Indira Gandhi government in the year 1975 and stated that he was jailed for eighteen months, and was not&nbsp;granted parole to visit his ailing mother. He could also not&nbsp;attend her last rites.

''I was not given parole to attend my mother's last rites during the Emergency and now they (Congress) call us dictators," the defence minister told news agency ANI.

"Those who imposed dictatorship through Emergency, they accuse us of being dictatorial," he further said.

Singh said that he was made convenor for Mirzapur-Sonbhadra during the JP Movement against Emergency which was imposed in June 1975 and continued till March 1977.

"I was jailed as we were opposing Emergency. We used to agitate. We created awareness among people, how Emergency is dangerous and reflects dictatorial tendency," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday (Apr 11) launched a scathing attack on Pakistan stating that if the country finds itself incapable of eliminating terrorism originating from its territory, it must take New Delhi's help.

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday (Apr 11) launched a scathing attack on Pakistan stating that if the country finds itself incapable of eliminating terrorism originating from its territory, it must take New Delhi's help. Singh further warned Islamabad to be ready to face dire consequences if it tries to destabilise India via terrorism. "If Pakistan attempts to destabilize India through terrorism, it will have to face the consequences. Pakistan needs to control terrorism. If Pakistan thinks that it is not capable of controlling it, if they feel they are not capable, then India is a neighbour, if they want to take India’s help, they should. India is ready to provide all assistance to combat terrorism,” he said in an interview with news agency ANI. The Union defence minister further said that if Pakistan's intentions are clear, it must take strong action against cross-border terrorism. "They are our neighbours, and if their intention is clear that terrorism should end, they should do that themselves or take help from India…we both can end terrorism. But this is their call, I am just giving a suggestion," he added. 'Will not tolerate terrorists to operate within Indian borders' The veteran BJP leader then said that India will not allow terrorists to operate within the country's borders and that it will do everything to stop it. Also read: India: CBI arrests BRS leader K Kavitha in connection with Delhi liquor policy scam "We won't allow terrorists to operate within Indian borders. We will do everything to stop it," he said. Asked if such action can be taken across the border, he said, “We will see what happens”. His firm remarks come weeks after a report by the British daily The Guardian claimed that India conducted targeted killings of terrorists in neighbouring Pakistan. Delhi rebuffed the claims calling them "false and malicious anti-India propaganda". 'Could not perform mother's last rites,' says Singh Hitting out at the opposition over its accusations of an "undeclared emergency" under the BJP-led government, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recalled the arrests during the Emergency imposed by the Indira Gandhi government in the year 1975 and stated that he was jailed for eighteen months, and was not granted parole to visit his ailing mother. He could also not attend her last rites. ''I was not given parole to attend my mother's last rites during the Emergency and now they (Congress) call us dictators," the defence minister told news agency ANI. "Those who imposed dictatorship through Emergency, they accuse us of being dictatorial," he further said. Singh said that he was made convenor for Mirzapur-Sonbhadra during the JP Movement against Emergency which was imposed in June 1975 and continued till March 1977. "I was jailed as we were opposing Emergency. We used to agitate. We created awareness among people, how Emergency is dangerous and reflects dictatorial tendency," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Rajnath Singh hits out at Pakistan, says take help from India if incapable of eliminating terrorism

India, once known for its mushrooming startup ecosystem, witnessed a negative spiral as the number of unicorns – companies valued at over USD 1 billion – declined for the first time in four years, according to a report released on Tuesday. <o:p></o:p>

The Hurun Global Unicorn Index 2024 indicated that India's unicorn count stood at 67, marking a decrease from previous years. <o:p></o:p>

Despite this decline, India retained its position as the world's third-largest hub for unicorns.<o:p></o:p>

Among the developments, edtech giant Byju's witnessed a decline in valuation, falling sharply from over $22 billion to below the unicorn threshold. <o:p></o:p>

As per Hurun, this downturn in valuation is the biggest dip among startups globally.<o:p></o:p>

Founded in 2008, Byju’s encountered operational restructuring and cost-cutting measures as losses mounted. <o:p></o:p>

The company also fell short of its revenue target for the previous financial year and struggled with resolving a debt of $1.2 billion.<o:p></o:p>

According to Rupert Hoogewerf, the Chairman and Chief Researcher of the Hurun Report, startups like Byju's remain significant despite their setbacks. <o:p></o:p>

Hoogewerf acknowledged the media attention garnered by failing startups, and said that their role in riving economic vitality was key. <o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, food delivery platform Swiggy and fantasy sports platform Dream11 have emerged as India's most valuable unicorns, each valued at $8 billion. <o:p></o:p>

Right behind is Razorpay, valued at $7.5 billion.<o:p></o:p>

The report also highlighted the emergence of new entrants in the unicorn club, such as the artificial intelligence platform Krutrim. <o:p></o:p>

Anas Rahman Junaid, Chief Researcher of Hurun India, noted the entrance of 60 AI-focused startups from the US and 37 from China into the unicorn realm. <o:p></o:p>

However, despite these additions, India witnessed a decline in its unicorn count. <o:p></o:p>

Junaid attributed this decline to a lack of investments in startups, although there have been gains in equity indices. <o:p></o:p>

Additionally, the trend of Indian founders establishing companies abroad has further impacted India's unicorn prospects.<o:p></o:p>

The global unicorn front saw other frontrunners, with Bytedance, the parent company of TikTok, leading the list valuation of $220 billion. <o:p></o:p>

This was followed by Elon Musk's SpaceX, valued at $180 billion, and Microsoft-backed OpenAI, worth USD 100 billion. <o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from PTI)<o:p></o:p>

India, once known for its mushrooming startup ecosystem, witnessed a negative spiral as the number of unicorns – companies valued at over USD 1 billion – declined for the first time in four years, according to a report released on Tuesday.

India, once known for its mushrooming startup ecosystem, witnessed a negative spiral as the number of unicorns – companies valued at over USD 1 billion – declined for the first time in four years, according to a report released on Tuesday. The Hurun Global Unicorn Index 2024 indicated that India's unicorn count stood at 67, marking a decrease from previous years. Despite this decline, India retained its position as the world's third-largest hub for unicorns. Among the developments, edtech giant Byju's witnessed a decline in valuation, falling sharply from over $22 billion to below the unicorn threshold. As per Hurun, this downturn in valuation is the biggest dip among startups globally. Founded in 2008, Byju’s encountered operational restructuring and cost-cutting measures as losses mounted. The company also fell short of its revenue target for the previous financial year and struggled with resolving a debt of $1.2 billion. According to Rupert Hoogewerf, the Chairman and Chief Researcher of the Hurun Report, startups like Byju's remain significant despite their setbacks. Hoogewerf acknowledged the media attention garnered by failing startups, and said that their role in riving economic vitality was key. Meanwhile, food delivery platform Swiggy and fantasy sports platform Dream11 have emerged as India's most valuable unicorns, each valued at $8 billion. Right behind is Razorpay, valued at $7.5 billion. The report also highlighted the emergence of new entrants in the unicorn club, such as the artificial intelligence platform Krutrim. Anas Rahman Junaid, Chief Researcher of Hurun India, noted the entrance of 60 AI-focused startups from the US and 37 from China into the unicorn realm. However, despite these additions, India witnessed a decline in its unicorn count. Junaid attributed this decline to a lack of investments in startups, although there have been gains in equity indices. Additionally, the trend of Indian founders establishing companies abroad has further impacted India's unicorn prospects. The global unicorn front saw other frontrunners, with Bytedance, the parent company of TikTok, leading the list valuation of $220 billion. This was followed by Elon Musk's SpaceX, valued at $180 billion, and Microsoft-backed OpenAI, worth USD 100 billion. (With inputs from PTI)

India witnesses drop in unicorn count, Byju's valuation plunge tops global charts

Eid-ul-Fitr 2024: The moon sighting ritual holds deep significance in Islamic tradition, marking the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan. Families and communities come together to break their fast, offer prayers, and partake in joyous festivities that symbolise unity and gratitude.

The timing of Eid celebrations hinges on sighting the Shawwal crescent moon. Saudi Arabia, UAE and Qatar had announced it earlier, and are celebrating Eid on Wednesday (April 10). However, the crescent moon wasn't seen in Delhi, Hyderabad, and Lucknow, so Eid will be celebrated on Thursday&nbsp;(April 11).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eclipse-flight-turns-into-a-flop-show-passengers-pay-1000-for-no-sight-of-cosmic-event-709640">'Eclipse flight' turns into a flop show! Passengers paid over $1,000 for no sight of cosmic event</a>

Eid al-Fitr is being celebrated&nbsp;in Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh on Wednesday as the crescent moon has been sighted, as announced by the Grand Mufti of Jammu and Kashmir. Similarly, in Ladakh, the Jammiat-ul-Ulama Isna Ashria in Kargil has confirmed the sighting of the crescent, proclaiming the Eid al-Fitr celebration for April 10, 2024. Meanwhile, in Kerala, clerics including Sayyid Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal, Jifri Muthukkoya Thangal, and Kanthapuram A P Aboobacker Musliyar confirmed the moon sighting on Tuesday,&nbsp;and the Eid celebration on Wednesday.

This reaffirms the global practice of Eid al-Fitr being celebrated on different days based on the sighting of the crescent moon.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eid-al-fitr-2024-moon-sighted-in-kashmir-kerala-but-most-indian-muslims-to-celebrate-festival-on-april-11-709553">Eid al-Fitr&nbsp;2024: Moon sighted in Kashmir and Kerala but most Indian Muslims to celebrate festival on April 11</a>

As Muslims eagerly await Eid al-Fitr celebrations, they rely on spotting the crescent moon to set the date. Even with a delay in some places, their strong sense of togetherness and hope for a day of blessings, togetherness, and spiritual growth remains unwavering.

<h2>Eid al-Fitr 2024: Quotes for Greetings, Wishes</h2>

1. "It's time to celebrate the triumphs of faith, the joy of family, and the blessings of community."

2. "As the crescent moon graces the sky, let us rejoice in the spirit of Eid-ul-Fitr and cherish the moments of togetherness with loved ones."

3. "Eid-ul-Fitr reminds us of the importance of gratitude, compassion, and generosity as we mark the end of Ramadan's spiritual journey."

4. "May the blessings of Eid al-Fitr illuminate your path, fill your life with happiness, and bring peace to your heart."

5. "On this special day of Eid al-Fitr, let us embrace the diversity of humanity, spread love, and foster unity in our communities."

Eid-ul-Fitr 2024: The moon sighting ritual holds deep significance in Islamic tradition, marking the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan. Families and communities come together to break their fast, offer prayers, and partake in joyous festivities that symbolise unity and gratitude.

Eid-ul-Fitr 2024: The moon sighting ritual holds deep significance in Islamic tradition, marking the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan. Families and communities come together to break their fast, offer prayers, and partake in joyous festivities that symbolise unity and gratitude. The timing of Eid celebrations hinges on sighting the Shawwal crescent moon. Saudi Arabia, UAE and Qatar had announced it earlier, and are celebrating Eid on Wednesday (April 10). However, the crescent moon wasn't seen in Delhi, Hyderabad, and Lucknow, so Eid will be celebrated on Thursday (April 11). 'Eclipse flight' turns into a flop show! Passengers paid over $1,000 for no sight of cosmic event Eid al-Fitr is being celebrated in Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh on Wednesday as the crescent moon has been sighted, as announced by the Grand Mufti of Jammu and Kashmir. Similarly, in Ladakh, the Jammiat-ul-Ulama Isna Ashria in Kargil has confirmed the sighting of the crescent, proclaiming the Eid al-Fitr celebration for April 10, 2024. Meanwhile, in Kerala, clerics including Sayyid Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal, Jifri Muthukkoya Thangal, and Kanthapuram A P Aboobacker Musliyar confirmed the moon sighting on Tuesday, and the Eid celebration on Wednesday. This reaffirms the global practice of Eid al-Fitr being celebrated on different days based on the sighting of the crescent moon. Also read| Eid al-Fitr 2024: Moon sighted in Kashmir and Kerala but most Indian Muslims to celebrate festival on April 11 As Muslims eagerly await Eid al-Fitr celebrations, they rely on spotting the crescent moon to set the date. Even with a delay in some places, their strong sense of togetherness and hope for a day of blessings, togetherness, and spiritual growth remains unwavering. Eid al-Fitr 2024: Quotes for Greetings, Wishes 1. "It's time to celebrate the triumphs of faith, the joy of family, and the blessings of community." 2. "As the crescent moon graces the sky, let us rejoice in the spirit of Eid-ul-Fitr and cherish the moments of togetherness with loved ones." 3. "Eid-ul-Fitr reminds us of the importance of gratitude, compassion, and generosity as we mark the end of Ramadan's spiritual journey." 4. "May the blessings of Eid al-Fitr illuminate your path, fill your life with happiness, and bring peace to your heart." 5. "On this special day of Eid al-Fitr, let us embrace the diversity of humanity, spread love, and foster unity in our communities."

Eid al-Fitr 2024: Moon sighting time in India

With the holy month of Ramadhan coming to an end, the Eid preparations are in full swing in Kashmir valley as thousands of people flood the markets in every district. Every shop in the markets is fully packed amid shopping for clothes, baked goods, and food. &nbsp;

After fasting for the whole month, the joy of Eid holds a lot of importance for Muslims across the world. And that is why the markets are alive with the hustle and bustle of eager shoppers. With markets are filled with the aroma of freshly baked goods, food and scents.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/eid-ul-fitr-2024-crescent-not-seen-in-saudi-arabia-eid-now-on-wednesday-709157">Eid-ul-Fitr 2024: Shawwal moon not sighted in Saudi Arabia; Eid on Wednesday</a>

“There is a lot of rush, and huge numbers of people are thronging the markets. We are having a good sale and it's all for Eid. We are hopeful that this Eid will bring a lot of happiness and peace to the Kashmir Valley specially for the future generations. The business is going great as you can see people are shopping in every market,” said Omar Wani, a shopkeeper.&nbsp;

The markets of the valley are packed to the brim.&nbsp;Preparations for the celebration of Eid are going on in the Kashmir valley. The girls and women are seen applying mehndi on their hands.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajnath-singh-warns-beijing-against-renaming-places-arunachal-pradesh-709516">Rajnath Singh slams Beijing on renaming row, says ‘What if we change names of Chinese provinces’</a>

Eid is a day of happiness and peace, and that is why people take care of each other’s happiness on this beautiful festival. The poor in the community are helped so that they can celebrate the festival with joy as well.&nbsp;

“There is a lot of rush in the markets. Eid is specially for kids. Eid is celebrated with a lot of love. We also need to take care of the poor and make sure their Eid is good as well. We also should make sure those who have nothing should be provided everything. Eid shopping is going great this year,” said Mir Mohammad Yasin, a dealer.&nbsp;

Grand Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam announced that Shawaal crescent moon has been sighted hence, Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on Wednesday (Apr&nbsp;10) in J&amp;K.

With the holy month of Ramadhan coming to an end, the Eid preparations are in full swing in Kashmir valley as thousands of people flood the markets in every district.

With the holy month of Ramadhan coming to an end, the Eid preparations are in full swing in Kashmir valley as thousands of people flood the markets in every district. Every shop in the markets is fully packed amid shopping for clothes, baked goods, and food. After fasting for the whole month, the joy of Eid holds a lot of importance for Muslims across the world. And that is why the markets are alive with the hustle and bustle of eager shoppers. With markets are filled with the aroma of freshly baked goods, food and scents. Also Read | Eid-ul-Fitr 2024: Shawwal moon not sighted in Saudi Arabia; Eid on Wednesday “There is a lot of rush, and huge numbers of people are thronging the markets. We are having a good sale and it's all for Eid. We are hopeful that this Eid will bring a lot of happiness and peace to the Kashmir Valley specially for the future generations. The business is going great as you can see people are shopping in every market,” said Omar Wani, a shopkeeper. The markets of the valley are packed to the brim. Preparations for the celebration of Eid are going on in the Kashmir valley. The girls and women are seen applying mehndi on their hands. Also Read | Rajnath Singh slams Beijing on renaming row, says ‘What if we change names of Chinese provinces’ Eid is a day of happiness and peace, and that is why people take care of each other’s happiness on this beautiful festival. The poor in the community are helped so that they can celebrate the festival with joy as well. “There is a lot of rush in the markets. Eid is specially for kids. Eid is celebrated with a lot of love. We also need to take care of the poor and make sure their Eid is good as well. We also should make sure those who have nothing should be provided everything. Eid shopping is going great this year,” said Mir Mohammad Yasin, a dealer. Grand Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam announced that Shawaal crescent moon has been sighted hence, Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on Wednesday (Apr 10) in J&K.

India: Eid preparations in full swing across Kashmir Valley

In a step forward for the Indian private space sector, SpaceX has launched an Earth-Imaging satellite assembled and tested in India, by a Tata Group firm. The ‘TSAT-1A’ satellite was launched on the Bandwagon-1 mission, which SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket launched from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center, Florida, United States, at 23:16 UTC on April 7.

A collaborative effort between India’s Tata Advanced System Limited (TASL) and foreign firm Satellogic, the TSAT-1A has been assembled at the Tata group’s Assembly, Integration and Testing (AIT) facility at Vemagal, Karnataka. In November 2023, TASL and Satellogic had inked a pact to develop and integrate an advanced earth observation satellite.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-successfully-launches-second-military-spy-satellite-amid-race-with-north-korea-709008">South Korea successfully launches second military spy satellite amid race with North Korea</a>

TSAT-1A is a sub-metre resolution satellite, which means that it produces images where it is possible to clearly distinguish between objects that are less than one metre apart. Satellites that are used for defence and strategic purposes have resolutions in the range of one metre to even 30 centimetres or lower. This helps in clearly distinguishing even the smallest of objects and deriving maximum information from the image.&nbsp;

“This milestone shows TASL’s commitment to the space sector. This is a first step. We are grateful for the support we have received from various Indian Government authorities for required permissions," said Sukaran Singh, CEO and MD, TASL.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-receives-fresh-batch-of-igla-s-hand-held-anti-aircraft-missiles-from-russia-report-708996">Indian Army receives fresh batch of Igla-S hand-held anti-aircraft missiles from Russia: Report</a>

In the year 2020, the Indian government rolled out reforms in the government-only space sector and permitted private firms to undertake end-to-end space activities. This is a step aimed at increasing India’s overall share in the lucrative global space economy. As part of the reforms, private firms are allowed to design, build and launch their own satellites, rockets, and offer space-based services.

Prior to the reforms, only the Indian government-run space agency was permitted to perform end-to-end space activities, whereas private firms could only supply hardware and provide services to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).&nbsp;

Aimed at boosting the homegrown industry, startups, and opening it up to foreign entities, the Indian government also recently permitted Foreign Direct Investment in the country’s space sector.

In a step forward for the Indian private space sector, SpaceX has launched an Earth-Imaging satellite assembled and tested in India, by a Tata Group firm. The ‘TSAT-1A’ satellite was launched on the Bandwagon-1 mission, which SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket launched from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center, Florida, United States, at 23:16 UTC on April 7.

In a step forward for the Indian private space sector, SpaceX has launched an Earth-Imaging satellite assembled and tested in India, by a Tata Group firm. The ‘TSAT-1A’ satellite was launched on the Bandwagon-1 mission, which SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket launched from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center, Florida, United States, at 23:16 UTC on April 7. A collaborative effort between India’s Tata Advanced System Limited (TASL) and foreign firm Satellogic, the TSAT-1A has been assembled at the Tata group’s Assembly, Integration and Testing (AIT) facility at Vemagal, Karnataka. In November 2023, TASL and Satellogic had inked a pact to develop and integrate an advanced earth observation satellite. Also Read | South Korea successfully launches second military spy satellite amid race with North Korea TSAT-1A is a sub-metre resolution satellite, which means that it produces images where it is possible to clearly distinguish between objects that are less than one metre apart. Satellites that are used for defence and strategic purposes have resolutions in the range of one metre to even 30 centimetres or lower. This helps in clearly distinguishing even the smallest of objects and deriving maximum information from the image. “This milestone shows TASL’s commitment to the space sector. This is a first step. We are grateful for the support we have received from various Indian Government authorities for required permissions," said Sukaran Singh, CEO and MD, TASL. Also Read | Indian Army receives fresh batch of Igla-S hand-held anti-aircraft missiles from Russia: Report In the year 2020, the Indian government rolled out reforms in the government-only space sector and permitted private firms to undertake end-to-end space activities. This is a step aimed at increasing India’s overall share in the lucrative global space economy. As part of the reforms, private firms are allowed to design, build and launch their own satellites, rockets, and offer space-based services. Prior to the reforms, only the Indian government-run space agency was permitted to perform end-to-end space activities, whereas private firms could only supply hardware and provide services to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Aimed at boosting the homegrown industry, startups, and opening it up to foreign entities, the Indian government also recently permitted Foreign Direct Investment in the country’s space sector.

SpaceX launches TATA Group satellite assembled and tested in India

In a shocking case from the Indian state of Maharashtra, a 28-year-old man was stabbed to death for allegedly staring at two women who&nbsp;were smoking. The incident, according to the police, took place on Saturday (Apr 6) night.&nbsp;

<h2>What we know about the fatal stabbing</h2>

Jayashree Panjhade and her friend Savita Sayre were smoking near a shop in Mahalaxmi Nagar in the city of Nagpur, on Saturday night when the 28-year-old victim, identified as Ranjit Rathod, came and began staring at the two women, said the police, as per media reports.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/body-cut-into-17-pieces-in-indias-haryana-speeding-car-kills-man-who-was-out-on-walk-709038">In India’s Haryana, speeding car kills man who was out on walk, body found in ‘17 pieces’</a>

According to local officials, the women were angered when Rathod, who was also there to buy cigarettes, started staring at them. Subsequently, an argument broke out, which soon escalated into a fight which the 28-year-old had reportedly recorded.

The video shows Panjhade abusing him and blowing smoke at him. She later called her friend Akash Raut to the shop.&nbsp;

Raut arrived with his friends after Rathod had fled the scene. However, he and his friends went after the 28-year-old and allegedly stabbed him multiple times.&nbsp;

<h2>Three accused arrested</h2>

After the alleged stabbing police were called and the 28-year-old was reportedly rushed to the hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/man-from-indias-delhi-dies-after-taking-slide-in-water-park-in-noida-probe-launched-report-708939">Man from India's Delhi dies after taking slide at water park in Noida, probe launched: Report</a>

Meanwhile, the shopkeeper, Laxman Tawde told the police that he had shut the shop and left for his house after Raut was called.&nbsp;

The three accused Raut, Panjhade, and Sayre have been detained. “Police have arrested three accused and a case has been registered,” said the police.&nbsp;

The complaint was filed by Rathod’s relative and the trio was arrested under sections 302 and 34 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), according to local officials. The police are looking for the fourth accused, one of Raut’s friends.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

In a shocking case from the Indian state of Maharashtra, a 28-year-old man was stabbed to death for allegedly staring at two women who were smoking. The incident, according to the police, took place on Saturday (Apr 6) night.

In a shocking case from the Indian state of Maharashtra, a 28-year-old man was stabbed to death for allegedly staring at two women who were smoking. The incident, according to the police, took place on Saturday (Apr 6) night. What we know about the fatal stabbing Jayashree Panjhade and her friend Savita Sayre were smoking near a shop in Mahalaxmi Nagar in the city of Nagpur, on Saturday night when the 28-year-old victim, identified as Ranjit Rathod, came and began staring at the two women, said the police, as per media reports. Also Read | In India’s Haryana, speeding car kills man who was out on walk, body found in ‘17 pieces’ According to local officials, the women were angered when Rathod, who was also there to buy cigarettes, started staring at them. Subsequently, an argument broke out, which soon escalated into a fight which the 28-year-old had reportedly recorded. The video shows Panjhade abusing him and blowing smoke at him. She later called her friend Akash Raut to the shop. Raut arrived with his friends after Rathod had fled the scene. However, he and his friends went after the 28-year-old and allegedly stabbed him multiple times. Three accused arrested After the alleged stabbing police were called and the 28-year-old was reportedly rushed to the hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. Also Read | Man from India's Delhi dies after taking slide at water park in Noida, probe launched: Report Meanwhile, the shopkeeper, Laxman Tawde told the police that he had shut the shop and left for his house after Raut was called. The three accused Raut, Panjhade, and Sayre have been detained. “Police have arrested three accused and a case has been registered,” said the police. The complaint was filed by Rathod’s relative and the trio was arrested under sections 302 and 34 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), according to local officials. The police are looking for the fourth accused, one of Raut’s friends. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Man fatally stabbed for staring at two women smoking in Maharashtra; 3 arrested

At least 80 persons, including women and children, were rescued after they were left stranded amid snowfall in the 17,688-feet-high Chang La pass between Leh and Shyok river valley in the Union Territory of Ladakh, the Army said on Sunday.

The midnight operation was carried out by the soldiers of the Trishul Division, Leh-based Fire and Fury Corps of the Indian Army said.

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“Soldiers of Trishul Division responded immediately to an emergent situation at icy heights of Chang La to clear a traffic block, working relentlessly for two hours in the night, and brought relief to almost 80 persons including ladies &amp; children stuck amidst the snowfall,” the corps wrote on its official social media handle ‘X’.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
'<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> - Midnight Rescue at Chang La' 
 
Soldiers of Trishul Division responded immediately to an emergent situation at icy heights of Chang La to clear a traffic block, working relentlessly for two hours in the night, and brought relief to almost 80 persons including ladies… <a href="https://t.co/15KJBj2Ya2">pic.twitter.com/15KJBj2Ya2</a>
— @firefurycorps_IA (@firefurycorps) <a href="https://twitter.com/firefurycorps/status/1776822739535327549?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-home-minister-amit-shah-slams-congress-kharge-over-remarks-on-kashmir-708513">Lok Sabha Election: Home Minister Amit Shah slams Congress chief Kharge for his remarks on Kashmir</a>

It also shared a few pictures and a video of the rescue operation.

At least 80 persons, including women and children, were rescued after they were left stranded amid snowfall in the 17,688-feet-high Chang La pass between Leh and Shyok river valley in the Union Territory of Ladakh, the Army said on Sunday.

At least 80 persons, including women and children, were rescued after they were left stranded amid snowfall in the 17,688-feet-high Chang La pass between Leh and Shyok river valley in the Union Territory of Ladakh, the Army said on Sunday. The midnight operation was carried out by the soldiers of the Trishul Division, Leh-based Fire and Fury Corps of the Indian Army said. Also Read | India: NIA officials attacked during raid booked for ‘molestation’ by West Bengal police “Soldiers of Trishul Division responded immediately to an emergent situation at icy heights of Chang La to clear a traffic block, working relentlessly for two hours in the night, and brought relief to almost 80 persons including ladies & children stuck amidst the snowfall,” the corps wrote on its official social media handle ‘X’. '#IndianArmy - Midnight Rescue at Chang La' Soldiers of Trishul Division responded immediately to an emergent situation at icy heights of Chang La to clear a traffic block, working relentlessly for two hours in the night, and brought relief to almost 80 persons including ladies… pic.twitter.com/15KJBj2Ya2 — @firefurycorps_IA (@firefurycorps) April 7, 2024 × Also Read | Lok Sabha Election: Home Minister Amit Shah slams Congress chief Kharge for his remarks on Kashmir It also shared a few pictures and a video of the rescue operation.

Indian Army rescues 80 people stranded amid snowfall in Ladakh

Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer, on Saturday (Apr 6) thanked his Indian counterpart External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and the government of India for renewing the quota to allow the export of certain quantities of essential commodities for his nation. This comes amid a diplomatic row between the two countries since November.&nbsp;

<h2>‘I sincerely thank EAM…’</h2>

“I sincerely thank EAM (Dr S Jaishankar) and the Government of #India for the renewal of the quota to enable #Maldives to import essential commodities from India during the years 2024 and 2025,” said Zameer.&nbsp;

He added, “This is truly a gesture which signifies the longstanding friendship, and the strong commitment to further expand bilateral trade and commerce between our two countries.”&nbsp;

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I sincerely thank EAM <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> and the Government of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> for the renewal of the quota to enable <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maldives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maldives</a> to import essential commodities from India during the years 2024 and 2025. 
 
This is truly a gesture which signifies the longstanding friendship, and the strong…
— Moosa Zameer (@MoosaZameer) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoosaZameer/status/1776324964381343971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-steps-up-supply-of-essential-commodities-to-maldives-in-fy25-708165">India steps up supply of essential commodities to Maldives in FY25</a>

The post comes a day after the Indian High Commission took to X and said that New Delhi allowed the export of certain quantities of essential commodities for the year 2024-25 at the 'request' of the Maldivian government and that it was being done under a unique bilateral mechanism.&nbsp;

The bilateral trade between India and Maldives crossed the $500 million mark in 2022. In its post, the Indian High Commission, on Thursday (Apr 4) also said that the quotas for each of these items have been revised upwards.

There has been a five per cent increase in the quotas for eggs, potatoes, onions, sugar, rice, wheat flour and dal (pulses).&nbsp;

Additionally, the quota for river sand and stone aggregates which are essential for construction in the Maldives has been increased by 25 per cent to 1,000,000 metric tonnes, each.

Since Maldives is an island nation and does not have enough sand to support its construction, river sand and stone aggregates are considered essential.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Neighbourhood First’</h2>

In response to the Maldivian FM’s post on X, the EAM said, “You are welcome, FM Moosa Zameer”. He added, “India stands firmly committed to its Neighbourhood First and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) policies.”

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You are welcome, FM <a href="https://twitter.com/MoosaZameer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoosaZameer</a>. 
 
India stands firmly committed to its Neighbourhood First and SAGAR policies. <a href="https://t.co/mKYOYu2aM9">https://t.co/mKYOYu2aM9</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (Modi Ka Parivar) (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1776457695048167428?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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SAGAR is India’s policy on maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean region, while New Delhi’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy underlines the country’s foreign policies in nations that are in its immediate neighbourhood, including Maldives.&nbsp;

<h2>India-Maldives ties</h2>

The ties between India and Maldives in the past few months have become strained.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-seeks-debt-relief-from-india-after-insisting-on-troop-withdrawal-703245">Maldives seeks debt relief from India after insisting on troop withdrawal</a>

Last year, in November, pro-China Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, hours after being sworn in, demanded that Indian military personnel operating three aviation platforms be repatriated from his country by May 10.

The relations between New Delhi and Male further deteriorated after some officials from Muizzu’s government made crass comments after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted photos and videos of the Lakshadweep Islands.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer, on Saturday (Apr 6) thanked his Indian counterpart External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and the government of India for renewing the quota to allow the export of certain quantities of essential commodities for his nation.

Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer, on Saturday (Apr 6) thanked his Indian counterpart External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and the government of India for renewing the quota to allow the export of certain quantities of essential commodities for his nation. This comes amid a diplomatic row between the two countries since November. ‘I sincerely thank EAM…’ “I sincerely thank EAM (Dr S Jaishankar) and the Government of #India for the renewal of the quota to enable #Maldives to import essential commodities from India during the years 2024 and 2025,” said Zameer. He added, “This is truly a gesture which signifies the longstanding friendship, and the strong commitment to further expand bilateral trade and commerce between our two countries.” I sincerely thank EAM @DrSJaishankar and the Government of #India for the renewal of the quota to enable #Maldives to import essential commodities from India during the years 2024 and 2025. This is truly a gesture which signifies the longstanding friendship, and the strong… — Moosa Zameer (@MoosaZameer) April 5, 2024 × Also Read | India steps up supply of essential commodities to Maldives in FY25 The post comes a day after the Indian High Commission took to X and said that New Delhi allowed the export of certain quantities of essential commodities for the year 2024-25 at the 'request' of the Maldivian government and that it was being done under a unique bilateral mechanism. The bilateral trade between India and Maldives crossed the $500 million mark in 2022. In its post, the Indian High Commission, on Thursday (Apr 4) also said that the quotas for each of these items have been revised upwards. There has been a five per cent increase in the quotas for eggs, potatoes, onions, sugar, rice, wheat flour and dal (pulses). Additionally, the quota for river sand and stone aggregates which are essential for construction in the Maldives has been increased by 25 per cent to 1,000,000 metric tonnes, each. Since Maldives is an island nation and does not have enough sand to support its construction, river sand and stone aggregates are considered essential. ‘Neighbourhood First’ In response to the Maldivian FM’s post on X, the EAM said, “You are welcome, FM Moosa Zameer”. He added, “India stands firmly committed to its Neighbourhood First and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) policies.” You are welcome, FM @MoosaZameer. India stands firmly committed to its Neighbourhood First and SAGAR policies. https://t.co/mKYOYu2aM9 — Dr. S. Jaishankar (Modi Ka Parivar) (@DrSJaishankar) April 6, 2024 × SAGAR is India’s policy on maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean region, while New Delhi’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy underlines the country’s foreign policies in nations that are in its immediate neighbourhood, including Maldives. India-Maldives ties The ties between India and Maldives in the past few months have become strained. Also Read | Maldives seeks debt relief from India after insisting on troop withdrawal Last year, in November, pro-China Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, hours after being sworn in, demanded that Indian military personnel operating three aviation platforms be repatriated from his country by May 10. The relations between New Delhi and Male further deteriorated after some officials from Muizzu’s government made crass comments after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted photos and videos of the Lakshadweep Islands. (With inputs from agencies)

Maldives FM thanks Indian government, EAM for allowing export of essential commodities

In a significant development, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued 27 Bangladeshi fishermen aboard a boat that drifted inside Indian waters,&nbsp;officials said on Friday (Apr 5).

The swift operation took place on Thursday (Apr 4) after the ICG spotted the fishing boat (BFB) Sagar II, adrift inside Indian waters&nbsp;during a patrol at Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Border Line (IMBL).&nbsp;

During the probe it was revealed that the boat's steering gear suffered a breakdown, leaving the fishermen stranded at the sea.

''At about 1130 hrs on April 4, Indian Coast Guard Ship 'Amogh' during a patrol at Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Border Line (IMBL) sighted a Bangladeshi fishing boat (BFB) 'Sagar II' adrift inside Indian waters,'' the ICG said in a statement.

"The boat had a steering gear breakdown for the last two days and had been adrift since then which led to the boat drifting inside Indian waters'', it added.

The Indian Coast Guard's technical team attempted to determine and fix the defect, however, the team observed that the rudder of the boat was "completely damaged" and that its repair could not be done at sea.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaCoastGuard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaCoastGuard</a> Ship Amogh during patrol rescued 27 Bangladeshi fishermen on 4th Apr, adrift near Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) due to machinery breakdown. Rescued Bangladesh boat &amp; crew were handed over to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BCG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BCG</a> ship at IMBL. (1/2) <a href="https://twitter.com/giridhararamane?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@giridhararamane</a> <a href="https://t.co/IalII8J5gS">pic.twitter.com/IalII8J5gS</a>
— Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaCoastGuard/status/1776135407778058667?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-rebuffs-senior-un-officials-free-and-fair-remark-on-elections-in-india-707865">Jaishankar rebuffs senior UN official's 'free and fair' remark on elections in India</a>

''As the sea state and weather conditions were conducive, it was decided that the distressed boat would be towed to the Indo-Bangladesh IMBL and handed over to another Bangladeshi fishing boat operating across IMBL or to Bangladesh Coast Guard Ship by the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Indian Coast Guard and Bangladesh Coast Guard,'' read the statement.

The Indian Coast Guard regional headquarters at Kolkata in the meantime informed the Bangladesh Coast Guard about the situation and also discussed further plan of action, said the officials.

''BCG ship 'Kamaruzzaman' arrived near the IMBL at about 1845 hrs on April 4. ICGS 'Amogh' handed over the 27 Bangladeshi fishermen along with their boat to BCG ship 'Kamaruzzaman','' the statement said.

''The operation reflects the commitment of the Indian Coast Guard towards safeguarding precious lives at sea against all odds. Such successful search and rescue (SAR) operations will not only strengthen the regional SAR structure but also enhance international cooperation with neighbouring countries. This is in keeping with the motto of the Indian Coast Guard 'Vayam Rakshamah' which means 'We Protect','' it added.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a significant development, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued 27 Bangladeshi fishermen aboard a boat that drifted inside Indian waters, officials said on Friday (Apr 5).

In a significant development, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued 27 Bangladeshi fishermen aboard a boat that drifted inside Indian waters, officials said on Friday (Apr 5). The swift operation took place on Thursday (Apr 4) after the ICG spotted the fishing boat (BFB) Sagar II, adrift inside Indian waters during a patrol at Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Border Line (IMBL). During the probe it was revealed that the boat's steering gear suffered a breakdown, leaving the fishermen stranded at the sea. ''At about 1130 hrs on April 4, Indian Coast Guard Ship 'Amogh' during a patrol at Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Border Line (IMBL) sighted a Bangladeshi fishing boat (BFB) 'Sagar II' adrift inside Indian waters,'' the ICG said in a statement. "The boat had a steering gear breakdown for the last two days and had been adrift since then which led to the boat drifting inside Indian waters'', it added. The Indian Coast Guard's technical team attempted to determine and fix the defect, however, the team observed that the rudder of the boat was "completely damaged" and that its repair could not be done at sea. @IndiaCoastGuard Ship Amogh during patrol rescued 27 Bangladeshi fishermen on 4th Apr, adrift near Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) due to machinery breakdown. Rescued Bangladesh boat & crew were handed over to #BCG ship at IMBL. (1/2) @giridhararamane pic.twitter.com/IalII8J5gS — Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) April 5, 2024 × Also read: Jaishankar rebuffs senior UN official's 'free and fair' remark on elections in India ''As the sea state and weather conditions were conducive, it was decided that the distressed boat would be towed to the Indo-Bangladesh IMBL and handed over to another Bangladeshi fishing boat operating across IMBL or to Bangladesh Coast Guard Ship by the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Indian Coast Guard and Bangladesh Coast Guard,'' read the statement. The Indian Coast Guard regional headquarters at Kolkata in the meantime informed the Bangladesh Coast Guard about the situation and also discussed further plan of action, said the officials. ''BCG ship 'Kamaruzzaman' arrived near the IMBL at about 1845 hrs on April 4. ICGS 'Amogh' handed over the 27 Bangladeshi fishermen along with their boat to BCG ship 'Kamaruzzaman','' the statement said. ''The operation reflects the commitment of the Indian Coast Guard towards safeguarding precious lives at sea against all odds. Such successful search and rescue (SAR) operations will not only strengthen the regional SAR structure but also enhance international cooperation with neighbouring countries. This is in keeping with the motto of the Indian Coast Guard 'Vayam Rakshamah' which means 'We Protect','' it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Coast Guard rescues 27 Bangladeshi fishermen during patrol

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