<p>In a path-breaking development, India's Supreme Court on Thursday (Oct 3) banned all caste-based discrimination in Indian jails, terming them as “unconstitutional.” The court calls for immediate reforms across all states and Union Territories (UTs) against the various jail manual provisions like scavenging and cleaning by the marginalised inmates, as this violates their right to dignity and equality.</p>

<p>The verdict was delivered by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud, specifically addressing the entrenched discriminatory practices against marginalised communities, including scheduled castes (SC), scheduled tribes (ST) and denotified tribes (DNTs) in Indian prisons.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/couple-in-indias-up-dupes-people-of-millions-with-promise-of-age-reversal-heres-what-happened-764438">Couple in India's UP dupes people of millions with promise of 'age reversal.' Here's what happened</a></strong></p>

<p>“The right to live with dignity extends even to the incarcerated. Not providing dignity to prisoners is a relic of the colonisers and pre-colonial mechanisms, where oppressive systems were designed to dehumanise and degrade those under the control of the State,” the SC bench said.</p>

<p>These discriminatory provisions are part of the pre-colonial-era Prisons Act of 1894, but they continue in independent India despite manuals and Acts framed by the Centre as recently as last year, the apex court found.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The rule that a prisoner of a high caste be allowed to refuse food cooked by other castes is a legal sanction by the state authorities to untouchability and the caste system,” the bench, which included Justice J B&nbsp;Pardiwala and Justice Manoj Misra, said.</p>

<p>The provision that food is to be cooked by prisoners from a “suitable caste” allows jail officials to discriminate against the marginalised castes, it said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pilgrims-can-now-see-mount-kailash-from-inside-indian-territory-heres-how-764397">Pilgrims can now see Mount Kailash from inside Indian territory. Here's how</a></strong></p>

<p>It frowned upon the imposition of work such as cleaning latrines and sweeping only on “Mether, Hari caste or Chandal” and similar castes, saying it amounted to “forced labour”. The top court condemned such practice, calling it a clear violation of human dignity.</p>

<p>“We therefore find that the impugned provisions are violative of Articles 14 (equality), 15 (non-discrimination), 17 (untouchability), 21 (life and liberty), and 23 (prohibition against forced labour),” the SC bench said.</p>

<p>The bench also asked the central government to make the necessary changes to the Model Prison Manual 2016 and the Model Prisons and Correctional Services Act 2023 within three months.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a path-breaking development, India's Supreme Court on Thursday (Oct 3) banned all caste-based discrimination in Indian jails, terming them as “unconstitutional.

In a path-breaking development, India's Supreme Court on Thursday (Oct 3) banned all caste-based discrimination in Indian jails, terming them as “unconstitutional.” The court calls for immediate reforms across all states and Union Territories (UTs) against the various jail manual provisions like scavenging and cleaning by the marginalised inmates, as this violates their right to dignity and equality. The verdict was delivered by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud, specifically addressing the entrenched discriminatory practices against marginalised communities, including scheduled castes (SC), scheduled tribes (ST) and denotified tribes (DNTs) in Indian prisons. Also Read | Couple in India's UP dupes people of millions with promise of 'age reversal.' Here's what happened “The right to live with dignity extends even to the incarcerated. Not providing dignity to prisoners is a relic of the colonisers and pre-colonial mechanisms, where oppressive systems were designed to dehumanise and degrade those under the control of the State,” the SC bench said. These discriminatory provisions are part of the pre-colonial-era Prisons Act of 1894, but they continue in independent India despite manuals and Acts framed by the Centre as recently as last year, the apex court found. “The rule that a prisoner of a high caste be allowed to refuse food cooked by other castes is a legal sanction by the state authorities to untouchability and the caste system,” the bench, which included Justice J B Pardiwala and Justice Manoj Misra, said. The provision that food is to be cooked by prisoners from a “suitable caste” allows jail officials to discriminate against the marginalised castes, it said. Also Read | Pilgrims can now see Mount Kailash from inside Indian territory. Here's how It frowned upon the imposition of work such as cleaning latrines and sweeping only on “Mether, Hari caste or Chandal” and similar castes, saying it amounted to “forced labour”. The top court condemned such practice, calling it a clear violation of human dignity. “We therefore find that the impugned provisions are violative of Articles 14 (equality), 15 (non-discrimination), 17 (untouchability), 21 (life and liberty), and 23 (prohibition against forced labour),” the SC bench said. The bench also asked the central government to make the necessary changes to the Model Prison Manual 2016 and the Model Prisons and Correctional Services Act 2023 within three months. (With inputs from agencies)

India's Supreme Court scraps 'unconstitutional' laws that promote caste-based discrimination in jails

<p>Bangladesh's interim government under Muhammad Yunus has recalled envoys to key countries and global bodies, including India, as part of a major reshuffle.&nbsp;Mustafizur Rahman, the high commissioner to India&nbsp;has been ordered to return to Dhaka quickly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You have been transferred to headquarters, Ministry of External Affairs, Dhaka. Therefore, you are requested to relinquish your present charge at Bangladesh High Commission, New Delhi and return to HQ, Dhaka without delay," read the official confirmation letter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the recall of the Bangladesh envoy to India comes at a time when relations between New Delhi and Dhaka have plummeted, following the collapse of the Sheikh Hasina government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from Rahman,&nbsp;Mahbub Hassan Saleh, the ambassador to Belgium;&nbsp;Muhammad Abdul Muhith, the permanent representative to the United Nations; M Allama Siddiqui, the high commissioner to Australia&nbsp;and Rezina Ahmed, the ambassador to Portugal have also been recalled by Dhaka.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is not the first instance when the Bangladeshi government has terminated the contract of its diplomats in India.</p>

<p>In August,&nbsp;Shaban Mahmud, First Secretary (Press) at the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi and&nbsp;Ranjan Sen, a First Secretary (Press) at the Bangladeshi consulate in Kolkata, were also relieved of their duties before the end of their respective tenures.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sheikh-hasinas-ouster-where-does-bangladesh-stand-now-756197" target="_blank"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Sheikh Hasina’s Ouster: Where does Bangladesh stand now?</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sheikh-hasinas-ouster-where-does-bangladesh-stand-now-756197/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Why the breakdown in relations?</strong></h2>

<p>Former PM Hasina has sought refuge in the northern Indian city of Ghaziabad ever since fleeing Bangladesh as the demonstrators&nbsp;took over her official residence in the wake of the students' protest in August.</p>

<p>The interim government has demanded that New Delhi extradite Hasina so that she can be tried in the courts for her involvement in the deaths of the protesters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/muhammad-yunus-led-govt-in-bdesh-asks-hindus-to-pause-durga-puja-music-during-namaz-azan-758110" target="_blank"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Bangladesh: Muhammad Yunus-led govt asks Hindus to pause Durga Puja music during namaz, azan</strong></a></p>

<p>Last month, the newly appointed chief prosecutor of the country's International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), Mohammad Taijul, stated that Bangladesh will&nbsp;take 'necessary steps' to secure the extradition of Hasina.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Necessary steps will be taken to bring former prime minister Hasina back under the extradition treaty with India to try her on charges of mass killings during the student-led protests in July and August,” Taijul said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The relations have also deteriorated due to the condition of Bangladeshi Hindus in the country where they have been subjected to brutal treatment from the majority Muslim populace.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Bangladesh's interim government under Muhammad Yunus has recalled envoys to key countries and global bodies, including India, as part of a major reshuffle. Mustafizur Rahman, the high commissioner to India has been ordered to return to Dhaka quickly.

Bangladesh's interim government under Muhammad Yunus has recalled envoys to key countries and global bodies, including India, as part of a major reshuffle. Mustafizur Rahman, the high commissioner to India has been ordered to return to Dhaka quickly. "You have been transferred to headquarters, Ministry of External Affairs, Dhaka. Therefore, you are requested to relinquish your present charge at Bangladesh High Commission, New Delhi and return to HQ, Dhaka without delay," read the official confirmation letter. Notably, the recall of the Bangladesh envoy to India comes at a time when relations between New Delhi and Dhaka have plummeted, following the collapse of the Sheikh Hasina government. Apart from Rahman, Mahbub Hassan Saleh, the ambassador to Belgium; Muhammad Abdul Muhith, the permanent representative to the United Nations; M Allama Siddiqui, the high commissioner to Australia and Rezina Ahmed, the ambassador to Portugal have also been recalled by Dhaka. This is not the first instance when the Bangladeshi government has terminated the contract of its diplomats in India. In August, Shaban Mahmud, First Secretary (Press) at the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi and Ranjan Sen, a First Secretary (Press) at the Bangladeshi consulate in Kolkata, were also relieved of their duties before the end of their respective tenures. Watch | Sheikh Hasina’s Ouster: Where does Bangladesh stand now? Why the breakdown in relations? Former PM Hasina has sought refuge in the northern Indian city of Ghaziabad ever since fleeing Bangladesh as the demonstrators took over her official residence in the wake of the students' protest in August. The interim government has demanded that New Delhi extradite Hasina so that she can be tried in the courts for her involvement in the deaths of the protesters. Also read | Bangladesh: Muhammad Yunus-led govt asks Hindus to pause Durga Puja music during namaz, azan Last month, the newly appointed chief prosecutor of the country's International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), Mohammad Taijul, stated that Bangladesh will take 'necessary steps' to secure the extradition of Hasina. “Necessary steps will be taken to bring former prime minister Hasina back under the extradition treaty with India to try her on charges of mass killings during the student-led protests in July and August,” Taijul said. The relations have also deteriorated due to the condition of Bangladeshi Hindus in the country where they have been subjected to brutal treatment from the majority Muslim populace. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh interim government recalls envoy to India amid tensions between neighbouring countries

<p>India was kept in loop as the United Kingdom and Mauritius decided on the future of Chagos Archipelago, key Indian ocean islands, which also host a US base. Under an agreement announced by the two countries on Thursday, the UK relinquished its claim to Chagos&nbsp;and handed over sovereignty to Mauritius. But London will retain authority over Diego Garcia for 99 years to ensure the continued operation of the joint UK/US military base.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The joint statement by the two sides stated, "In reaching today’s political agreement, we have enjoyed the full support and assistance of our close partners, the United States of America and the Republic of India". The deal comes after 11 rounds of negotiations between the UK and Mauritius, which started in 2022. UK's previous foreign secretary, James Cleverly, in 2022, while informing the British Parliament about the negotiations on the future of Chagos, said that London recognises India &amp; US "interests" on the issue and "will keep them informed of the progress".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/historic-uk-transfers-chagos-islands-sovereignty-to-mauritius-764204">'Historic': UK transfers sovereignty of Chagos Islands to Mauritius</a></strong></p>

<p>The development is significant for Delhi, not only because the security of the Indian Ocean region is at stake, but also because it involves teo close partners, Mauritius and UK. India has consistently supported Mauritius's claim over the Chagos Archipelago, a policy grounded on decolonization. Earlier this year, during a visit to Mauritius, India's EAM Dr S Jaishankar said, "On the issue of Chagos, India will continue its consistent support to Mauritius in line with its principal stand on decolonization and support for sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations."</p>

<p>On security front, the deal allows the US-UK Base to continue in Diego Garcia amid growing influence of the Chinese in the Indian Ocean region. This also has wider ramifications in the Indo-Pacific region, in which UK, US, Mauritius and India are key stakeholders.</p>

<p>The British high commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron, in a statement said, "This agreement enables deeper cooperation with India in the Indian Ocean, strengthening global security and averting threats to peace and prosperity in the wider Indo-Pacific."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Welcome deal today between the UK and Mauritius. This agreement enables deeper cooperation with India in the Indian Ocean, strengthening global security and averting threats to peace and prosperity in the wider Indo-Pacific. <a href="https://t.co/KyDQqO1fgw">https://t.co/KyDQqO1fgw</a></p>
— Lindy Cameron (@Lindy_Cameron) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lindy_Cameron/status/1841836334886867127?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>India has welcomed the agreement. The MEA said in a statement, "The resolution of the longstanding Chagos dispute after two years of negotiations, in compliance with international law, is a welcome development."<br />
<br />
Delhi clearly has played a quiet but important role in the background. Sources said, "India consistently encouraged both sides to negotiate with an open mind and with a view to achieving mutually beneficial outcomes."&nbsp;The sources pointed that the 'final outcome is a win for all sides involved and will reinforce long term security in the Indian Ocean region'.</p>

<p>Garcia is a significant U.S. military outpost, which impacts the balance of power in the Indian Ocean region. Established in early 1970s, following UK-US pact, it was from this base that US got major support during the Gulf war in 1990s, Afghanistan in 2021, and the invasion of Iraq in 2023. It provides the US military an operational advantage over west Asia, Africa, and Asia as it serves as a key hub for aerial refuelling, surveillance, and bomber operations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/work-with-us-cia-launches-hiring-drive-in-iran-n-korea-and-china-after-success-in-russia-764179">‘Work with us,’ CIA launches hiring drives in Iran, North Korea and China after success in Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>US President Biden has welcomed the pact that has been announced. In 2019, the ICJ advised that the UK should end its administration of the Chagos Archipelago, essentially supporting Mauritius's claim. In May 2023, the UN General Assembly overwhelmingly voted to support Mauritius's claim, urging the UK to withdraw its administration from the Chagos Archipelago.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India was kept in loop as the United Kingdom and Mauritius decided on the future of Chagos Archipelago, key Indian ocean islands, which also host a US base. Under an agreement announced by the two countries on Thursday, the UK relinquished its claim to Chagos and handed over sovereignty to Mauritius.

India was kept in loop as the United Kingdom and Mauritius decided on the future of Chagos Archipelago, key Indian ocean islands, which also host a US base. Under an agreement announced by the two countries on Thursday, the UK relinquished its claim to Chagos and handed over sovereignty to Mauritius. But London will retain authority over Diego Garcia for 99 years to ensure the continued operation of the joint UK/US military base. The joint statement by the two sides stated, "In reaching today’s political agreement, we have enjoyed the full support and assistance of our close partners, the United States of America and the Republic of India". The deal comes after 11 rounds of negotiations between the UK and Mauritius, which started in 2022. UK's previous foreign secretary, James Cleverly, in 2022, while informing the British Parliament about the negotiations on the future of Chagos, said that London recognises India & US "interests" on the issue and "will keep them informed of the progress". Also read: 'Historic': UK transfers sovereignty of Chagos Islands to Mauritius The development is significant for Delhi, not only because the security of the Indian Ocean region is at stake, but also because it involves teo close partners, Mauritius and UK. India has consistently supported Mauritius's claim over the Chagos Archipelago, a policy grounded on decolonization. Earlier this year, during a visit to Mauritius, India's EAM Dr S Jaishankar said, "On the issue of Chagos, India will continue its consistent support to Mauritius in line with its principal stand on decolonization and support for sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations." On security front, the deal allows the US-UK Base to continue in Diego Garcia amid growing influence of the Chinese in the Indian Ocean region. This also has wider ramifications in the Indo-Pacific region, in which UK, US, Mauritius and India are key stakeholders. The British high commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron, in a statement said, "This agreement enables deeper cooperation with India in the Indian Ocean, strengthening global security and averting threats to peace and prosperity in the wider Indo-Pacific." Welcome deal today between the UK and Mauritius. This agreement enables deeper cooperation with India in the Indian Ocean, strengthening global security and averting threats to peace and prosperity in the wider Indo-Pacific. https://t.co/KyDQqO1fgw — Lindy Cameron (@Lindy_Cameron) October 3, 2024 × India has welcomed the agreement. The MEA said in a statement, "The resolution of the longstanding Chagos dispute after two years of negotiations, in compliance with international law, is a welcome development." Delhi clearly has played a quiet but important role in the background. Sources said, "India consistently encouraged both sides to negotiate with an open mind and with a view to achieving mutually beneficial outcomes." The sources pointed that the 'final outcome is a win for all sides involved and will reinforce long term security in the Indian Ocean region'. Garcia is a significant U.S. military outpost, which impacts the balance of power in the Indian Ocean region. Established in early 1970s, following UK-US pact, it was from this base that US got major support during the Gulf war in 1990s, Afghanistan in 2021, and the invasion of Iraq in 2023. It provides the US military an operational advantage over west Asia, Africa, and Asia as it serves as a key hub for aerial refuelling, surveillance, and bomber operations. Also read: ‘Work with us,’ CIA launches hiring drives in Iran, North Korea and China after success in Russia US President Biden has welcomed the pact that has been announced. In 2019, the ICJ advised that the UK should end its administration of the Chagos Archipelago, essentially supporting Mauritius's claim. In May 2023, the UN General Assembly overwhelmingly voted to support Mauritius's claim, urging the UK to withdraw its administration from the Chagos Archipelago. (With inputs from agencies)

India kept in loop as Mauritius, UK agree on Indian Ocean archipelago's future

<p>Solicitor General Tushar Mehta on Thursday informed the Supreme Court that the Delhi Police have withdrawn the notification imposing a prohibitory order in the national capital.</p>

<p>Solicitor General Mehta apprised a bench led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud when a plea relating to the issue was mentioned before the top court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His reply came when a petition mentioned in the Supreme Court challenging the order of Delhi Police restricting large gatherings in Delhi, saying it would affect Ram Leela, Durga Puja pandals, Dussehra, and public gatherings.</p>

<p>Sunil, a priest of the famous Kalkaji Temple in Delhi and the Secretary of Manas Naman Sewa Society, who organises the grand Ramlila at the Satpula Ground in Chirag&nbsp;Dilli, filed the plea through advocate Prateek Chadha. He has challenged the Delhi Police Prohibitory Order banning assembly of five or more people from September 30 to October 5, saying that it will affect footfall during Dussehra and Navratri festivals. The petitioner said that the order would hinder religious celebrations during this period.</p>

<p>"The Ramlila and the fair around it see significant footfall each year during Dussehra and Navratri. Such festivities are organised in every nook and cranny of the city, and these were scheduled to commence on October 3, 2024. However, now, in light of the order assailed in this present petition, the commencement of these festivities across the city and long-standing traditions observed by innumerable residents of Delhi is in jeopardy for no constitutionally valid reason," the petition said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-activist-sonam-wangchuk-and-others-detained-in-delhi-launch-indefinite-fast-763482"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;India: Activist Sonam Wangchuk and others detained in Delhi, launch indefinite fast</strong></a></p>

<p>"Given that the highly religiously significant period of the Navratas begins on 03.10.2024, any assemblies to celebrate the festivities in the notified areas [New Delhi, North Delhi, Central Delhi, and all the border areas of the NCT of Delhi] will be adversely affected," the petition read.</p>

<p>In the plea, the petitioner sought quashing and setting aside of the order dated September 30, 2024, issued by the Commissioner of Police. Delhi Police exercising and enacting the powers under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, prohibited the assembly of five or more unauthorised persons from September 30 to October 5. During this period, there is a prohibition on the assembly of five or more unauthorised persons, carrying of firearms, banners, placards, lathis, and so on and dharnas in public areas.</p>

<p>"The impugned order will have a significant effect on the ingress and egress of citizens wishing to enter the NCT of Delhi from other states," the petition said.</p>

<p>The reasons provided in the order do not relate to any emergency or unforeseen circumstance that necessitates the curfew sought to be imposed by the police, the petition said.</p>

<p>"The elections, amendments to the Waqf laws, as well as the upcoming festivals, are all well known to the public authorities in advance, and necessary security arrangements ought to be made for the same. The practice of invoking Section 163 of BNSS for such foreseeable scenarios, without a grave apprehension of security breaches or disruption of public order is unsustainable in light of the pronouncements of this Court," the petitioner said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' March: Delhi Police impose prohibitory orders across national capital</strong></p>

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<p>The petitioner submitted that it appears that instead of performing its duties in respect of the maintenance of law and order and crowd management, the respondent simply seeks to evade them by trying to prohibit legitimate gatherings that would ordinarily take place in plural and thriving metropolises such as Delhi.</p>

<p>The petitioner said that the Delhi police decision is a serious hindrance to the general day-to-day life of individuals, and their fundamental rights, which cause grave hindrance to the rights, life, and livelihood of the citizens of Delhi.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Solicitor General Tushar Mehta on Thursday informed the Supreme Court that the Delhi Police have withdrawn the notification imposing a prohibitory order in the national capital.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta on Thursday informed the Supreme Court that the Delhi Police have withdrawn the notification imposing a prohibitory order in the national capital. Solicitor General Mehta apprised a bench led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud when a plea relating to the issue was mentioned before the top court. His reply came when a petition mentioned in the Supreme Court challenging the order of Delhi Police restricting large gatherings in Delhi, saying it would affect Ram Leela, Durga Puja pandals, Dussehra, and public gatherings. Sunil, a priest of the famous Kalkaji Temple in Delhi and the Secretary of Manas Naman Sewa Society, who organises the grand Ramlila at the Satpula Ground in Chirag Dilli, filed the plea through advocate Prateek Chadha. He has challenged the Delhi Police Prohibitory Order banning assembly of five or more people from September 30 to October 5, saying that it will affect footfall during Dussehra and Navratri festivals. The petitioner said that the order would hinder religious celebrations during this period. "The Ramlila and the fair around it see significant footfall each year during Dussehra and Navratri. Such festivities are organised in every nook and cranny of the city, and these were scheduled to commence on October 3, 2024. However, now, in light of the order assailed in this present petition, the commencement of these festivities across the city and long-standing traditions observed by innumerable residents of Delhi is in jeopardy for no constitutionally valid reason," the petition said. Also read: India: Activist Sonam Wangchuk and others detained in Delhi, launch indefinite fast "Given that the highly religiously significant period of the Navratas begins on 03.10.2024, any assemblies to celebrate the festivities in the notified areas [New Delhi, North Delhi, Central Delhi, and all the border areas of the NCT of Delhi] will be adversely affected," the petition read. In the plea, the petitioner sought quashing and setting aside of the order dated September 30, 2024, issued by the Commissioner of Police. Delhi Police exercising and enacting the powers under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, prohibited the assembly of five or more unauthorised persons from September 30 to October 5. During this period, there is a prohibition on the assembly of five or more unauthorised persons, carrying of firearms, banners, placards, lathis, and so on and dharnas in public areas. "The impugned order will have a significant effect on the ingress and egress of citizens wishing to enter the NCT of Delhi from other states," the petition said. The reasons provided in the order do not relate to any emergency or unforeseen circumstance that necessitates the curfew sought to be imposed by the police, the petition said. "The elections, amendments to the Waqf laws, as well as the upcoming festivals, are all well known to the public authorities in advance, and necessary security arrangements ought to be made for the same. The practice of invoking Section 163 of BNSS for such foreseeable scenarios, without a grave apprehension of security breaches or disruption of public order is unsustainable in light of the pronouncements of this Court," the petitioner said. Watch | Farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' March: Delhi Police impose prohibitory orders across national capital × The petitioner submitted that it appears that instead of performing its duties in respect of the maintenance of law and order and crowd management, the respondent simply seeks to evade them by trying to prohibit legitimate gatherings that would ordinarily take place in plural and thriving metropolises such as Delhi. The petitioner said that the Delhi police decision is a serious hindrance to the general day-to-day life of individuals, and their fundamental rights, which cause grave hindrance to the rights, life, and livelihood of the citizens of Delhi. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Delhi Police withdraw prohibitory orders against gatherings, Centre tells Supreme Court

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<p>The European Union is keen that Indian investors invest in Eurobonds, and for that, the EU commissioner for Budget and Administration, Johannes Hahn, is currently in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to our correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the commissioner (minister), explained, "Our intention is, and that's why I'm here, that investors from India engage themselves in Europe, to get an attractive bond. Which is safe, triple A rated, which is sustainable, which is successful."&nbsp;The commissioner will be in Delhi&nbsp;and Mumbai, and will meet top Indian government&nbsp;officials and ministers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As part of Euro bonds, the focus is also on EU Green Bonds, which are designed to raise funds for environmentally friendly projects within the European Union.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-a-trade-barrier-with-india-eu-official-clarifies-cbams-environmental-focus-737192"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;'Not a trade barrier with India': EU official clarifies CBAM's environmental focus</strong></a></p>

<p>The commissioner pointed out, "We have committed ourselves to spend at least 30 per cent&nbsp;of our budget for the green transition, and this is the reason why we have so far issued 65 billion euros as green bonds."&nbsp;He also spoke on India-EU FTA and the current situation in west Asia. Full interview</p>

<p><strong>WION: What is the key focus during India visit?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Commissioner Johannes Hahn:</strong> First and most prominent one is to further strengthen our already very strong ties between India and Europe, and in particular, to promote our European Union bonds, a new instrument to finance the recovery and resilience of the European economy after the pandemic. So far, we have raised more than 500 billion euros, and out of this, 65 for so-called Green bonds. And our intention is, and that's why I'm here, that investors from India engage themselves in Europe, to get an attractive bond. Which is safe, triple A rated, which is sustainable, which is successful, and at the same time supporting Europe in the way that Europe can be even more engaged in India and in general, it's about the European single market, where India has a very strong interest. India-Europe, we are the strongest trade partners.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION: Sir, you mentioned euro bonds. If you can elaborate on euro bonds, why should an Indian investor look towards Euro bonds as a place to invest?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Commissioner Johannes Hahn:</strong> Well, if it's about bonds, what we can offer is a bond which is very safe, triple rated, guaranteed, not only by the European budget, but also by the European member states. It's therefore extremely safe. It's sustainable because we focus also on the green transition. So it's about addressing the effects of climate change, which is our common goal, India and Europe. And finally, if you are interested in diversifying your portfolio, to have bonds in your portfolio being dominated in Euro, it's additionally an element which should be taken into consideration.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION: So element of the Euro bond is the green bond, if you can talk about your ambition on the green bonds.&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Commissioner Johannes Hahn:</strong> Well, as I said, green transition is and the financing of the effects of climate change, to be more clean, to be more sustainable, is one of our top priorities of the current European commissioners, also the future one, and that's why we have committed ourselves to spend at least 30% of our budget for the green transition, and this is the reason why we have so far issued 65 billion euro as green bonds, and finally, it will be around 200 billion. And with that, we are financing green projects in Europe, we have introduced a very transparent, very easily understandable, very updated dashboard where you can see for which purposes the money is used.</p>

<p><strong>WION: In terms of helping India in terms of green transition. If you can talk about that, India has its own ambitions when it comes to green transition, we have been an important player when it comes to initiatives like the International Solar Alliance...</strong></p>

<p><strong>Commissioner Johannes Hahn:</strong> Well, we share the same goals. And I believe, by the way, that Europe and India could be in the forefront of the discussions between the West and the South, because at the end, it's about common challenges. And I think common ideas which have to be implemented in projects. And this is why, for instance, we have provided, only recently, a big round of 1 billion euro for the production of green hydrogen here in India. This is a kind of seed financing, and once this is up and running, it can be rolled out, and it could be a very attractive business case. We are also investing in Smart City solutions, where, due to the use of digital devices, IT programmes, artificial intelligence, for instance, we can reduce CO2 emissions. We have also invested in water management, water treatment, and these are areas where we believe India is very interested, and the response is a very positive one. And for instance, also big cities, metros, trains.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;'Not a trade bEU Official clarifies CBAM's environmental focus, stresses positive trade ties with Indiarrier with India': EU official clarifies CBAM's environmental focus</strong></p>

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<p><strong>WION: Your assessment of India-EU FTA?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Commissioner Johannes Hahn:</strong> I don't have the crystal ball. All these negotiations are always comprehensive. It takes time, everybody has specific interests, but I'm confident we have a lot of experiences. India has a lot of experience in this kind of agreements, and I'm very confident. Also, Prime Minister Modi has expressed that we should re-energize the negotiations. And the thing it's time wise, a good coincidence that in India, but also in Europe, a new cycle, new parliamentary cycle, which gives us the leeway to negotiate substantially, profoundly, and I'm confident at the end of the day, we will have a very comprehensive FTA, an ambitious one, because at the end it's something where two big economies working closely together to the mutual benefit of all our citizens.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION: EU's position on the situation in West Asia?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Commissioner Johannes Hahn:</strong> First, it's our neighborhood. So we are extremely concerned, and that's why we urge all parties to refrain from further escalations, to move towards the ceasefire. And of course, it's also about releasing hostages.&nbsp;</p>


The European Union is keen that Indian investors invest in Eurobonds, and for that, the EU commissioner for Budget and Administration, Johannes Hahn, is currently in India.

The European Union is keen that Indian investors invest in Eurobonds, and for that, the EU commissioner for Budget and Administration, Johannes Hahn, is currently in India. Speaking to our correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the commissioner (minister), explained, "Our intention is, and that's why I'm here, that investors from India engage themselves in Europe, to get an attractive bond. Which is safe, triple A rated, which is sustainable, which is successful." The commissioner will be in Delhi and Mumbai, and will meet top Indian government officials and ministers. As part of Euro bonds, the focus is also on EU Green Bonds, which are designed to raise funds for environmentally friendly projects within the European Union. Also read: 'Not a trade barrier with India': EU official clarifies CBAM's environmental focus The commissioner pointed out, "We have committed ourselves to spend at least 30 per cent of our budget for the green transition, and this is the reason why we have so far issued 65 billion euros as green bonds." He also spoke on India-EU FTA and the current situation in west Asia. Full interview WION: What is the key focus during India visit? Commissioner Johannes Hahn: First and most prominent one is to further strengthen our already very strong ties between India and Europe, and in particular, to promote our European Union bonds, a new instrument to finance the recovery and resilience of the European economy after the pandemic. So far, we have raised more than 500 billion euros, and out of this, 65 for so-called Green bonds. And our intention is, and that's why I'm here, that investors from India engage themselves in Europe, to get an attractive bond. Which is safe, triple A rated, which is sustainable, which is successful, and at the same time supporting Europe in the way that Europe can be even more engaged in India and in general, it's about the European single market, where India has a very strong interest. India-Europe, we are the strongest trade partners. WION: Sir, you mentioned euro bonds. If you can elaborate on euro bonds, why should an Indian investor look towards Euro bonds as a place to invest? Commissioner Johannes Hahn: Well, if it's about bonds, what we can offer is a bond which is very safe, triple rated, guaranteed, not only by the European budget, but also by the European member states. It's therefore extremely safe. It's sustainable because we focus also on the green transition. So it's about addressing the effects of climate change, which is our common goal, India and Europe. And finally, if you are interested in diversifying your portfolio, to have bonds in your portfolio being dominated in Euro, it's additionally an element which should be taken into consideration. WION: So element of the Euro bond is the green bond, if you can talk about your ambition on the green bonds. Commissioner Johannes Hahn: Well, as I said, green transition is and the financing of the effects of climate change, to be more clean, to be more sustainable, is one of our top priorities of the current European commissioners, also the future one, and that's why we have committed ourselves to spend at least 30% of our budget for the green transition, and this is the reason why we have so far issued 65 billion euro as green bonds, and finally, it will be around 200 billion. And with that, we are financing green projects in Europe, we have introduced a very transparent, very easily understandable, very updated dashboard where you can see for which purposes the money is used. WION: In terms of helping India in terms of green transition. If you can talk about that, India has its own ambitions when it comes to green transition, we have been an important player when it comes to initiatives like the International Solar Alliance... Commissioner Johannes Hahn: Well, we share the same goals. And I believe, by the way, that Europe and India could be in the forefront of the discussions between the West and the South, because at the end, it's about common challenges. And I think common ideas which have to be implemented in projects. And this is why, for instance, we have provided, only recently, a big round of 1 billion euro for the production of green hydrogen here in India. This is a kind of seed financing, and once this is up and running, it can be rolled out, and it could be a very attractive business case. We are also investing in Smart City solutions, where, due to the use of digital devices, IT programmes, artificial intelligence, for instance, we can reduce CO2 emissions. We have also invested in water management, water treatment, and these are areas where we believe India is very interested, and the response is a very positive one. And for instance, also big cities, metros, trains. Watch | 'Not a trade bEU Official clarifies CBAM's environmental focus, stresses positive trade ties with Indiarrier with India': EU official clarifies CBAM's environmental focus × WION: Your assessment of India-EU FTA? Commissioner Johannes Hahn: I don't have the crystal ball. All these negotiations are always comprehensive. It takes time, everybody has specific interests, but I'm confident we have a lot of experiences. India has a lot of experience in this kind of agreements, and I'm very confident. Also, Prime Minister Modi has expressed that we should re-energize the negotiations. And the thing it's time wise, a good coincidence that in India, but also in Europe, a new cycle, new parliamentary cycle, which gives us the leeway to negotiate substantially, profoundly, and I'm confident at the end of the day, we will have a very comprehensive FTA, an ambitious one, because at the end it's something where two big economies working closely together to the mutual benefit of all our citizens. WION: EU's position on the situation in West Asia? Commissioner Johannes Hahn: First, it's our neighborhood. So we are extremely concerned, and that's why we urge all parties to refrain from further escalations, to move towards the ceasefire. And of course, it's also about releasing hostages.

EU commissioner invites Indian investors to buy Euro bonds, hopeful on FTA

<p>Election strategist-turned-politician Prashant Kishore officially launched his new political outfit, Jan Suraaj Party,&nbsp;at the Jan Suraaj Foundation Convention in Patna&nbsp;on Wednesday,&nbsp; and&nbsp;named Manoj Bharti as its&nbsp;working president.</p>

<p>Manoj Bharti is a resident of Madhubani who studied at Jharkhand's Netarhat, IIT Kanpur, and did his M.Tech from IIT Delhi. He has also served in the foreign service. He was India's ambassador in Ukraine, Belarus, Timor-Leste, and Indonesia.</p>

<p>At the launch event, Prashant Kishor said that the party has been active for the past two years and recently received approval from the Election Commission of India.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/big-blow-to-bihar-government-patna-hc-scraps-65-quota-for-backward-classes-733451"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Big blow to Bihar government: Patna HC scraps 65% quota for backward classes</strong></a></p>

<p>"Jan Suraaj campaign is going on for 2-3 years. People are asking when we will be forming the party. We all must thank God, today the Election Commission has officially accepted Jan Suraaj as Jan Suraaj Party," Kishor said.</p>

<p>He further said that if Bihar has to have a world-class education system, Rs 5 lakh crore is needed in the next 10 years.</p>

<p>"If Bihar has to have a world-class education system, Rs 5 lakh crore is needed in the next 10 years. When the liquor ban will be removed, that money won't go into the budget and will not be used for the security of leaders, nor it will be used for roads, water and electricity. That will be used only for building a new education system in Bihar. Every year, Bihar is facing a loss of Rs 20,000 crore due to the liquor ban," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Bihar Floods: Residents Wade Through Chest-High Floodwaters In Indian State</strong></p>

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<p>Notably, Kishor has vowed to end the liquor ban in Bihar immediately if elected to power.</p>

<p>With the Election Commission's nod, the Jan Suraj Party is now expected to contest in all constituencies in the Bihar assembly elections next year.</p>

<p>On September 30, Kishor said that he does not want to become the leader of the party, adding that next year, in January or February, the party will release its agenda for Bihar.</p>

<p>Earlier, Kishor announced that the party would contest elections on all 243 seats out of which there will be 40 women candidates.</p>

<p>The assembly elections in Bihar are likely to be held in October-November 2025.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Election strategist-turned-politician Prashant Kishore officially launched his new political outfit, Jan Suraaj Party, at the Jan Suraaj Foundation Convention in Patna on Wednesday, and named Manoj Bharti as its working president.

Election strategist-turned-politician Prashant Kishore officially launched his new political outfit, Jan Suraaj Party, at the Jan Suraaj Foundation Convention in Patna on Wednesday, and named Manoj Bharti as its working president. Manoj Bharti is a resident of Madhubani who studied at Jharkhand's Netarhat, IIT Kanpur, and did his M.Tech from IIT Delhi. He has also served in the foreign service. He was India's ambassador in Ukraine, Belarus, Timor-Leste, and Indonesia. At the launch event, Prashant Kishor said that the party has been active for the past two years and recently received approval from the Election Commission of India. Also read: Big blow to Bihar government: Patna HC scraps 65% quota for backward classes "Jan Suraaj campaign is going on for 2-3 years. People are asking when we will be forming the party. We all must thank God, today the Election Commission has officially accepted Jan Suraaj as Jan Suraaj Party," Kishor said. He further said that if Bihar has to have a world-class education system, Rs 5 lakh crore is needed in the next 10 years. "If Bihar has to have a world-class education system, Rs 5 lakh crore is needed in the next 10 years. When the liquor ban will be removed, that money won't go into the budget and will not be used for the security of leaders, nor it will be used for roads, water and electricity. That will be used only for building a new education system in Bihar. Every year, Bihar is facing a loss of Rs 20,000 crore due to the liquor ban," he said. Watch | Bihar Floods: Residents Wade Through Chest-High Floodwaters In Indian State × Notably, Kishor has vowed to end the liquor ban in Bihar immediately if elected to power. With the Election Commission's nod, the Jan Suraj Party is now expected to contest in all constituencies in the Bihar assembly elections next year. On September 30, Kishor said that he does not want to become the leader of the party, adding that next year, in January or February, the party will release its agenda for Bihar. Earlier, Kishor announced that the party would contest elections on all 243 seats out of which there will be 40 women candidates. The assembly elections in Bihar are likely to be held in October-November 2025. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Prashant Kishore launches Jan Suraaj party in Bihar, names Manoj Bharti as working president

<p>The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday (Oct 1) said any religious structure, be it a temple or dargah (mosque), must go if it encroaches on roads or railway tracks, adding that public safety was paramount.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The apex court was hearing a batch of pleas alleging that&nbsp;properties, including of those accused of crime, were being demolished in several states.</p>

<p>"We are a secular country and our direction will be for all, irrespective of religion or community. If there is any religious structure in the middle of the road, be it gurudwara or dargah or temple, it cannot obstruct the public," the two-judge bench of Justice BR Gavai and Justice KV Viswanathan said.</p>

<p>Justice Gavai declared that the court would not intervene in the case of encroachments into public lands, streets and roads. He clarified&nbsp;that the SC has no intention to protect encroachments on public roads, streets, or footpaths.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The court has long maintained that&nbsp;no property should be demolished without its approval, except in cases where the structures are illegal and located on public roads or footpaths.</p>

<p>It also extended its previous stay on demolitions and reserved the judgment. Last month, the court, issuing a stern warning to state government said that&nbsp;even a single case of unlawful demolition goes against the principles of the Indian Constitution.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan refugee crisis: Bulldozer razes homes of Afghan refugees in Pakistan</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-refugee-crisis-bulldozer-razes-homes-of-afghan-refugees-in-pakistan-654665/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Bulldozer justice&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The case came to light after state governments across the country indulged in 'bulldozer justice' where properties belonging to people accused of crimes were destroyed even before they had gone through the legal system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Justice Gavai made it clear that somebody being an accused or convict is no ground to demolish their home.</p>

<p>“We make it clear that there should be proper notice, chance of hearing in case somebody is found to be in violation of building laws,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cant-be-demolished-even-if-hes-a-convict-supreme-court-on-bulldozer-justice-755204"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;'House can't be demolished even if person is a convict': Supreme Court on 'bulldozer justice'</strong></a></p>

<p>Justice Viswanathan added that even in unauthorised structures, 10 to 15 days should be given for the occupants to find an alternative home.</p>

<p>The judge suggested&nbsp;videographing the demolition so that the jurisdictional court would later on know whether the measure was proportionate.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday (Oct 1) said any religious structure, be it a temple or dargah (mosque), must go if it encroaches on roads or railway tracks, adding that public safety was paramount.

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday (Oct 1) said any religious structure, be it a temple or dargah (mosque), must go if it encroaches on roads or railway tracks, adding that public safety was paramount. The apex court was hearing a batch of pleas alleging that properties, including of those accused of crime, were being demolished in several states. "We are a secular country and our direction will be for all, irrespective of religion or community. If there is any religious structure in the middle of the road, be it gurudwara or dargah or temple, it cannot obstruct the public," the two-judge bench of Justice BR Gavai and Justice KV Viswanathan said. Justice Gavai declared that the court would not intervene in the case of encroachments into public lands, streets and roads. He clarified that the SC has no intention to protect encroachments on public roads, streets, or footpaths. The court has long maintained that no property should be demolished without its approval, except in cases where the structures are illegal and located on public roads or footpaths. It also extended its previous stay on demolitions and reserved the judgment. Last month, the court, issuing a stern warning to state government said that even a single case of unlawful demolition goes against the principles of the Indian Constitution. Also watch | Pakistan refugee crisis: Bulldozer razes homes of Afghan refugees in Pakistan Bulldozer justice The case came to light after state governments across the country indulged in 'bulldozer justice' where properties belonging to people accused of crimes were destroyed even before they had gone through the legal system. Justice Gavai made it clear that somebody being an accused or convict is no ground to demolish their home. “We make it clear that there should be proper notice, chance of hearing in case somebody is found to be in violation of building laws,” he said. Also read | 'House can't be demolished even if person is a convict': Supreme Court on 'bulldozer justice' Justice Viswanathan added that even in unauthorised structures, 10 to 15 days should be given for the occupants to find an alternative home. The judge suggested videographing the demolition so that the jurisdictional court would later on know whether the measure was proportionate. (With inputs from agencies)

'Temple or mosques, they have to go': Indian SC on encroachment and bulldozer justice

<p>A biker was found dead in Morigaon district of the northeastern state of Assam on Sunday (Sep 30) after a wild rhino attacked him near the&nbsp;Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary.</p>

<p>The victim, identified as Saddam Hussain (40), a resident of&nbsp;Kamrup district, was travelling on his motorcycle when the rhino, which had ventured out of the wildlife sanctuary, started chasing him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A video clip that has since gone viral on social media shows&nbsp;Hussain getting down from his bike and running into the open field as the animal starts chasing him. Passersby tried to save the man and followed the rhino but found him lying motionless.</p>

<p>Police said that the person was declared dead by the doctors on arrival. “Since the movement of rhinos is common in that area, it is possible that he was attacked by the wild creature. We are investigating the matter,” a police officer said.</p>

<p>"The rhino came out of the wildlife sanctuary. We are investigating the incident," a forest official was quoted as saying by news wire agency&nbsp;<em>ANI.</em></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: Viewer discretion is advised&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Watch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Watch</a> | Rhino chases and mauls biker to death in India's Assam.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViralVideo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViralVideo</a> <a href="https://t.co/lHZw4oHvaX">pic.twitter.com/lHZw4oHvaX</a></p>
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<p>Locals attempted to turn away the rhino from the man but their efforts proved futile. Hussain's dead body was later found in the field with his head smashed.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Since the movement of rhinos is common in that area, it is possible that he was attacked by the wild creature. We are investigating the matter,” a police officer said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-rhino-day-2024-day-highlights-global-effort-to-protect-rhinos-world-of-africa-761614"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;World Rhino Day 2024: Day Highlights Global Effort To Protect Rhinos | World Of Africa</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Rhino population in Assam</strong></h2>

<p>The population of one-horned rhinos has seen an uptick in Assam. From a population of 600 in the 1960s, the number has increased to over 3,000 by 2024, according to data released by the Assam government on World Rhino Day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Rhinos are synonymous with the identity of Assam. They are our pride and the crown jewel of our biodiversity. Ever since we assumed office, we have taken various initiatives to protect the prized species, expand its habitat and ensure its safety,” Sarma wrote on X last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/woolly-rhino-mummy-found-in-russian-far-east-confirms-a-feature-seen-in-cave-art-759638"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Woolly rhino mummy found in Russian Far East confirms a feature seen in cave art</strong></a></p>

<p>Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve is home to 80 per cent&nbsp;of the country's rhino population, while&nbsp;Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary accounts for three per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A biker was found dead in Morigaon district of the northeastern state of Assam on Sunday (Sep 30) after a wild rhino attacked him near the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary.

A biker was found dead in Morigaon district of the northeastern state of Assam on Sunday (Sep 30) after a wild rhino attacked him near the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary. The victim, identified as Saddam Hussain (40), a resident of Kamrup district, was travelling on his motorcycle when the rhino, which had ventured out of the wildlife sanctuary, started chasing him. A video clip that has since gone viral on social media shows Hussain getting down from his bike and running into the open field as the animal starts chasing him. Passersby tried to save the man and followed the rhino but found him lying motionless. Police said that the person was declared dead by the doctors on arrival. “Since the movement of rhinos is common in that area, it is possible that he was attacked by the wild creature. We are investigating the matter,” a police officer said. "The rhino came out of the wildlife sanctuary. We are investigating the incident," a forest official was quoted as saying by news wire agency ANI. Disclaimer: Viewer discretion is advised #Watch | Rhino chases and mauls biker to death in India's Assam.#ViralVideo pic.twitter.com/lHZw4oHvaX — WION (@WIONews) September 30, 2024 × Locals attempted to turn away the rhino from the man but their efforts proved futile. Hussain's dead body was later found in the field with his head smashed. “Since the movement of rhinos is common in that area, it is possible that he was attacked by the wild creature. We are investigating the matter,” a police officer said. Watch | World Rhino Day 2024: Day Highlights Global Effort To Protect Rhinos | World Of Africa × Rhino population in Assam The population of one-horned rhinos has seen an uptick in Assam. From a population of 600 in the 1960s, the number has increased to over 3,000 by 2024, according to data released by the Assam government on World Rhino Day. “Rhinos are synonymous with the identity of Assam. They are our pride and the crown jewel of our biodiversity. Ever since we assumed office, we have taken various initiatives to protect the prized species, expand its habitat and ensure its safety,” Sarma wrote on X last week. Also read | Woolly rhino mummy found in Russian Far East confirms a feature seen in cave art Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve is home to 80 per cent of the country's rhino population, while Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary accounts for three per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

Biker chased and mauled to death by wild rhino in India's Assam - Video

<p>The COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns had a significant impact on the surface temperature of the Moon, an astonishing study published by Indian scientists in&nbsp;<em>Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society</em> has claimed.</p>

<p>The study, conducted using the data from NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) concluded that an&nbsp;"anomalous" decrease of 8-10º Kelvin (-265ºC to -263ºC)&nbsp;was observed in nighttime surface temperatures on the Moon during the strictest lockdown period from April to May 2020.</p>

<p>"The Moon has possibly experienced the effect of COVID-19 lockdown, visualized as an anomalous decrease in lunar night-time surface temperatures during that period," the study stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Researchers K Durga Prasad and G Ambily attributed the dip in lunar surface temperature to the reduction in Earth's outgoing radiation during the lockdowns. Due to the drastic decrease in human activity during the lockdown, there was a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and aerosols --&nbsp;leading to less heat being trapped and re-emitted by Earth's atmosphere.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chandrayaan-3-pragyan-rover-discovers-ancient-160-km-crater-on-moon-761259"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Chandrayaan-3: Pragyan Rover Discovers Ancient 160 Km Crater On Moon</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Study methodology</strong></h2>

<p>To conduct the study, the scientists&nbsp;elected six distinct sites on the nearside of the Moon with a surface area ranging from 900–2500 square kilometres.&nbsp;The sites were selected based on the following criteria:</p>

<ol>
	<li>The site should be relatively flat</li>
	<li>It should be within an equatorial or mid-latitude region</li>
	<li>The site should be of an optimum size</li>
</ol>

<p>Using the&nbsp;Diviner Lunar Radiometer (DLRE) instrument onboard NASA's LRO, the scientists analysed the surface temperature.&nbsp;Night-time surface temperatures from DLRE for six diverse sites on the Moon were analysed through 2017–2023, covering the periods before, after and during the COVID-19 lockdown, to look for any lockdown-induced subtle signature.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-to-get-a-second-moon-this-fall-here-is-how-to-watch-it-762928"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Earth to get a ‘second moon’ on Sep 29. Here is how to watch it</strong></a></p>

<p>As per the scientists,&nbsp;2020 saw the coldest temperatures across most sites, with a noticeable warming trend in 2021 and 2022, once human activity resumed on Earth.</p>

<p>The study stated that based on the findings, Moon-based&nbsp;observatories can become potential tools for observing Earth's environmental changes, which need to be explored extensively.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns had a significant impact on the surface temperature of the Moon, an astonishing study published by Indian scientists in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society has claimed.

The COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns had a significant impact on the surface temperature of the Moon, an astonishing study published by Indian scientists in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society has claimed. The study, conducted using the data from NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) concluded that an "anomalous" decrease of 8-10º Kelvin (-265ºC to -263ºC) was observed in nighttime surface temperatures on the Moon during the strictest lockdown period from April to May 2020. "The Moon has possibly experienced the effect of COVID-19 lockdown, visualized as an anomalous decrease in lunar night-time surface temperatures during that period," the study stated. Researchers K Durga Prasad and G Ambily attributed the dip in lunar surface temperature to the reduction in Earth's outgoing radiation during the lockdowns. Due to the drastic decrease in human activity during the lockdown, there was a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and aerosols -- leading to less heat being trapped and re-emitted by Earth's atmosphere. Watch | Chandrayaan-3: Pragyan Rover Discovers Ancient 160 Km Crater On Moon × Study methodology To conduct the study, the scientists elected six distinct sites on the nearside of the Moon with a surface area ranging from 900–2500 square kilometres. The sites were selected based on the following criteria: The site should be relatively flat It should be within an equatorial or mid-latitude region The site should be of an optimum size Using the Diviner Lunar Radiometer (DLRE) instrument onboard NASA's LRO, the scientists analysed the surface temperature. Night-time surface temperatures from DLRE for six diverse sites on the Moon were analysed through 2017–2023, covering the periods before, after and during the COVID-19 lockdown, to look for any lockdown-induced subtle signature. Also read | Earth to get a ‘second moon’ on Sep 29. Here is how to watch it As per the scientists, 2020 saw the coldest temperatures across most sites, with a noticeable warming trend in 2021 and 2022, once human activity resumed on Earth. The study stated that based on the findings, Moon-based observatories can become potential tools for observing Earth's environmental changes, which need to be explored extensively. (With inputs from agencies)

Moon's surface cooled down during strict COVID-19 lockdown, Indian study claims

<p>India's Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has stated that New Delhi could have given more money to Pakistan than it is about to&nbsp;receive from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) if ties were better between the two bitter neighbours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Singh was addressing an election rally in the Gurez assembly seat of Bandipora district in North Kashmir when he made the comment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Modi ji had, in 2014-15, announced a special package for the development of J&amp;K, which has now reached Rs 90,000 crore ($10.74 billion). The amount is much bigger than what Pakistan was seeking from the IMF (as a bailout package),” Singh said.</p>

<p>“My Pakistani friends, why have strained relations, we are neighbours. If we had good relations, we would have given you more money than the IMF,” he added.</p>

<p>Singh said Pakistan was using the financial aid money to fund terrorism which had stalled its economic progress.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It seeks money from other countries to run a terrorism factory on its soil,” said Singh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the IMF board last week approved a&nbsp;$7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) for cash-strapped Pakistan to boost its struggling economy.&nbsp;The $7 billion bailout package was approved after Pakistan promised to overhaul its agriculture income tax, transfer some fiscal responsibilities to provinces and take the most expensive loan in the nation's history.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-general-asim-munir-clubs-kargil-war-with-other-wars-against-india-756700" target="_blank"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan General Asim Munir clubs Kargil war with other wars against India</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-general-asim-munir-clubs-kargil-war-with-other-wars-against-india-756700/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Rajnath tells PoK residents to join India&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this month, Singh had urged residents of&nbsp;Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to join India, adding that the region would soon become a part of India.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Once our government is formed in Jammu and Kashmir, we will carry out development that will make the people of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) want to become part of India,” said Singh.</p>

<p>"Support the BJP to form the next government in J&amp;K so that we can facilitate massive development in the region. There will be so much development that the people in PoK on seeing this should say that we do not want to live with Pakistan and instead will go to India," he added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imf-approves-7-billion-loan-for-cash-strapped-pakistan-762052"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;IMF approves $7 billion loan for cash-strapped Pakistan</strong></a></p>

<p>"I want to tell PoK residents that Pakistan is considering you foreigner but the people in India do not consider you as such. We consider you as our own and so come and join us."</p>

<p>India has refused to maintain bilateral relations with Pakistan stating that unless Islamabad continues to export terrorism, there was no ground to hold talks and maintain a cordial relationship.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has stated that New Delhi could have given more money to Pakistan than it is about to receive from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) if ties were better between the two bitter neighbours.

India's Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has stated that New Delhi could have given more money to Pakistan than it is about to receive from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) if ties were better between the two bitter neighbours. Singh was addressing an election rally in the Gurez assembly seat of Bandipora district in North Kashmir when he made the comment. “Modi ji had, in 2014-15, announced a special package for the development of J&K, which has now reached Rs 90,000 crore ($10.74 billion). The amount is much bigger than what Pakistan was seeking from the IMF (as a bailout package),” Singh said. “My Pakistani friends, why have strained relations, we are neighbours. If we had good relations, we would have given you more money than the IMF,” he added. Singh said Pakistan was using the financial aid money to fund terrorism which had stalled its economic progress. “It seeks money from other countries to run a terrorism factory on its soil,” said Singh. Notably, the IMF board last week approved a $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) for cash-strapped Pakistan to boost its struggling economy. The $7 billion bailout package was approved after Pakistan promised to overhaul its agriculture income tax, transfer some fiscal responsibilities to provinces and take the most expensive loan in the nation's history. Watch | Pakistan General Asim Munir clubs Kargil war with other wars against India Rajnath tells PoK residents to join India Earlier this month, Singh had urged residents of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to join India, adding that the region would soon become a part of India. “Once our government is formed in Jammu and Kashmir, we will carry out development that will make the people of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) want to become part of India,” said Singh. "Support the BJP to form the next government in J&K so that we can facilitate massive development in the region. There will be so much development that the people in PoK on seeing this should say that we do not want to live with Pakistan and instead will go to India," he added. Also read | IMF approves $7 billion loan for cash-strapped Pakistan "I want to tell PoK residents that Pakistan is considering you foreigner but the people in India do not consider you as such. We consider you as our own and so come and join us." India has refused to maintain bilateral relations with Pakistan stating that unless Islamabad continues to export terrorism, there was no ground to hold talks and maintain a cordial relationship. (With inputs from agencies)

'India could've offered Pakistan more money than IMF aid if...': Defence minister Rajnath Singh

<p>Jamaica's Prime Minister Andrew Holness will be visiting India this week, as India-Caribbean engagement grows. He will be in India from September 30 to October 3 and will be holding a meeting&nbsp;with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. This will be PM Andrew's first visit to India, and also the first-ever bilateral visit by a Jamaican PM to India. The visiting head of government will&nbsp;also call on the Indian president and vice president.&nbsp;A number of MoUs are expected to be signed during the visit, giving a boost to bilateral ties.</p>

<p>From strong people ties to development partnerships and passion for cricket, the two countries have numerous key areas of convergence.&nbsp;PM Modi and his Jamaican counterpart have met several times in the past, especially in 2018, on the sidelines of various summits: CHOGM in April 2018 in London, BRICS Summit in South Africa in July 2018 and at G20 Summit in Argentina in December 2018.</p>

<p>Training and capacity building is the main pillar of bilateral relations and over the years, more than 360 Jamaican nationals have been trained in various institutions in India under the ITEC programme.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-high-commissioner-to-guyana-dr-k-j-srinivasa-speaks-to-wion-552657"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India-South Africa: Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr KJ Srinivasa speaks to WION</strong></a></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The country is home to a large Indian diaspora, approximately 70,000, whose ancestors arrived as indentured labourers primarily between 1845 and 1917. In fact, May 10 is celebrated as India Heritage Day in Jamaica, to mark the arrival of the first Indian in Jamaica.</p>

<p>This diaspora, which makes up around three per cent of Jamaica's population, is well integrated into Jamaican society and is fondly described as ‘genetically embedded and integrated’.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/building-on-g20-summit-success-plans-underway-for-india-africa-summit-637297"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Building on G20 Summit success, plans underway for India-Africa summit</strong></a></p>

<p>The Caribbean country has signed and ratified the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and is now a full-fledged member of the group. In 2021, India gifted 50,000 doses of ‘Made in India’ COVID-19 vaccine to the country. Delhi has also been playing a key role in various projects in the country, including a rural development project in Kitson Town and gave Flood Lights for Sabina Park Stadium, and 100 cricket kits to the Jamaica Cricket Association.</p>


Jamaica's Prime Minister Andrew Holness will be visiting India this week, as India-Caribbean engagement grows. He will be in India from September 30 to October 3 and will be holding a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.

Jamaica's Prime Minister Andrew Holness will be visiting India this week, as India-Caribbean engagement grows. He will be in India from September 30 to October 3 and will be holding a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. This will be PM Andrew's first visit to India, and also the first-ever bilateral visit by a Jamaican PM to India. The visiting head of government will also call on the Indian president and vice president. A number of MoUs are expected to be signed during the visit, giving a boost to bilateral ties. From strong people ties to development partnerships and passion for cricket, the two countries have numerous key areas of convergence. PM Modi and his Jamaican counterpart have met several times in the past, especially in 2018, on the sidelines of various summits: CHOGM in April 2018 in London, BRICS Summit in South Africa in July 2018 and at G20 Summit in Argentina in December 2018. Training and capacity building is the main pillar of bilateral relations and over the years, more than 360 Jamaican nationals have been trained in various institutions in India under the ITEC programme. Watch | India-South Africa: Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr KJ Srinivasa speaks to WION × The country is home to a large Indian diaspora, approximately 70,000, whose ancestors arrived as indentured labourers primarily between 1845 and 1917. In fact, May 10 is celebrated as India Heritage Day in Jamaica, to mark the arrival of the first Indian in Jamaica. This diaspora, which makes up around three per cent of Jamaica's population, is well integrated into Jamaican society and is fondly described as ‘genetically embedded and integrated’. Also read | Building on G20 Summit success, plans underway for India-Africa summit The Caribbean country has signed and ratified the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and is now a full-fledged member of the group. In 2021, India gifted 50,000 doses of ‘Made in India’ COVID-19 vaccine to the country. Delhi has also been playing a key role in various projects in the country, including a rural development project in Kitson Town and gave Flood Lights for Sabina Park Stadium, and 100 cricket kits to the Jamaica Cricket Association.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness to visit India this week

<p>After the huge success of India's third lunar mission,&nbsp;the Chandrayaan-3 mission earlier&nbsp;this year, the Union Cabinet on Wednesday (Sep 18) approved certain extensions to the forthcoming Chandrayaan-4 mission.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, it also cleared the Venus Orbiter Mission, the follow-on to the Gaganyaan mission, the development of an Indian space station, and the next-generation launch vehicle development.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, on Wednesday, announced,&nbsp;"Chandrayaan-4 has been expanded with additional elements, and the next step is a manned mission to the Moon. Preparatory steps have been approved. The Venus Orbiter Mission and development of the Next Generation Launch Vehicle have also been greenlit."</p>

<h2><strong>What is Chandrayaan-4?</strong></h2>

<p>Chandrayaan-4 aims to develop and demonstrate technologies for returning to Earth after a successful landing on the Moon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mission will consist of two spacecraft stacks featuring five modules. Stack 1 will focus on lunar sample collection, whereas Stack 2 will handle propulsion, transfer, and re-entry of samples back to Earth.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-to-be-part-of-groundbreaking-lunar-nuclear-plant-set-up-with-russia-and-china-moscow-says-757187"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;India to be part of 'groundbreaking' lunar nuclear plant set-up with Russia and China? Moscow says...</strong></a></p>

<p>It will further involve complex docking and undocking operations in lunar orbit, marking a significant advancement in India's space capabilities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mission would enable India to be self-sufficient in critical foundational technologies for manned missions, lunar sample return, and scientific analysis of the&nbsp;samples.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has designated USD 251.35 million (Rs 2104 crores) for the same.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The cabinet has set a timeline of 36 months for the mission to be completed. They added that the mission will feature five modules, divided into two stacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India's Chandrayaan-3 records more than 50 moonquakes</strong></p>

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<p>Chandrayaan-3 mission was successful after it landed on the moon on August 23 last year, marking a major achievement for India and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Venus Orbiter Mission</strong></h2>

<p>The Venus Orbiter Mission (VOM) will focus on scientific exploration to better understand Venus's atmosphere and geology, generating extensive scientific data by probing its thick atmosphere. ISRO will develop the spacecraft, launch it, and accomplish it in March 2028.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After the huge success of India's third lunar mission, the Chandrayaan-3 mission earlier this year, the Union Cabinet on Wednesday (Sep 18) approved certain extensions to the forthcoming Chandrayaan-4 mission.

After the huge success of India's third lunar mission, the Chandrayaan-3 mission earlier this year, the Union Cabinet on Wednesday (Sep 18) approved certain extensions to the forthcoming Chandrayaan-4 mission. Moreover, it also cleared the Venus Orbiter Mission, the follow-on to the Gaganyaan mission, the development of an Indian space station, and the next-generation launch vehicle development. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, on Wednesday, announced, "Chandrayaan-4 has been expanded with additional elements, and the next step is a manned mission to the Moon. Preparatory steps have been approved. The Venus Orbiter Mission and development of the Next Generation Launch Vehicle have also been greenlit." What is Chandrayaan-4? Chandrayaan-4 aims to develop and demonstrate technologies for returning to Earth after a successful landing on the Moon. The mission will consist of two spacecraft stacks featuring five modules. Stack 1 will focus on lunar sample collection, whereas Stack 2 will handle propulsion, transfer, and re-entry of samples back to Earth. Also read: India to be part of 'groundbreaking' lunar nuclear plant set-up with Russia and China? Moscow says... It will further involve complex docking and undocking operations in lunar orbit, marking a significant advancement in India's space capabilities. The mission would enable India to be self-sufficient in critical foundational technologies for manned missions, lunar sample return, and scientific analysis of the samples. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has designated USD 251.35 million (Rs 2104 crores) for the same. The cabinet has set a timeline of 36 months for the mission to be completed. They added that the mission will feature five modules, divided into two stacks. Watch | India's Chandrayaan-3 records more than 50 moonquakes × Chandrayaan-3 mission was successful after it landed on the moon on August 23 last year, marking a major achievement for India and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Venus Orbiter Mission The Venus Orbiter Mission (VOM) will focus on scientific exploration to better understand Venus's atmosphere and geology, generating extensive scientific data by probing its thick atmosphere. ISRO will develop the spacecraft, launch it, and accomplish it in March 2028. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian govt clears Chandrayaan-4 expansion, Venus mission. Know more

<p>For the first time in years, Türkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has skipped the mention of Kashmir during his annual address at the United National General Assembly.&nbsp;Erdogan has been regularly, in some form or another, mentioning Kashmir since 2019, when India removed the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated it into two union territories.</p>

<p>In 2023, he called for the "establishment of a just and lasting peace in Kashmir through dialogue and cooperation between India and Pakistan".&nbsp;In 2022, he used the same phrase and regretted that "strong peace, and cooperation between India and Pakistan had still not yet been established, despite 75 years following their independence."</p>

<p>In 2021, he called for the "resolution" of Kashmir through UN resolutions, something he had said in 2020 as well.&nbsp;He was most vocal in 2019, and said that the "dispute must be resolved through dialogue on the basis of justice and fairness, rather than conflict."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Erdogan wants India-Pak dialogue on Kashmir</strong></p>

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<p>The absence of comments is expected to further pave the way for positive ties between India and Türkiye.&nbsp;The development comes even as Türkiye is keen to become a member of the BRICS grouping. Joining BRICS could offer Türkiye new economic opportunities, including enhanced trade relations, investment from BRICS countries, and participation in alternative financial mechanisms like the New Development Bank.&nbsp;India is one of the founding members of the BRICS grouping.</p>

<p>During his UNGA address, Erdoğan pointed out,&nbsp;"We maintain our will to develop our relations with BRICS, which brings together emerging economies" and that his country is "deepening engagement with regional organizations, such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), the Pacific Islands Forum and particularly ASEAN."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-slams-erdogans-kashmir-remark-as-gross-interference-in-internal-affairs-329561"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India slams Erdogan's Kashmir remark as 'gross interference' in internal affairs</strong></a></p>

<p>IORA is another grouping that has India as its key member.</p>

<p>Last week, India announced its new ambassador to the country, Muktesh Kumar Pardeshi who is currently an officer on special duty in the Ministry of External Affairs.</p>


For the first time in years, Türkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has skipped the mention of Kashmir during his annual address at the United National General Assembly.

For the first time in years, Türkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has skipped the mention of Kashmir during his annual address at the United National General Assembly. Erdogan has been regularly, in some form or another, mentioning Kashmir since 2019, when India removed the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated it into two union territories. In 2023, he called for the "establishment of a just and lasting peace in Kashmir through dialogue and cooperation between India and Pakistan". In 2022, he used the same phrase and regretted that "strong peace, and cooperation between India and Pakistan had still not yet been established, despite 75 years following their independence." In 2021, he called for the "resolution" of Kashmir through UN resolutions, something he had said in 2020 as well. He was most vocal in 2019, and said that the "dispute must be resolved through dialogue on the basis of justice and fairness, rather than conflict." Watch | Gravitas: Erdogan wants India-Pak dialogue on Kashmir × The absence of comments is expected to further pave the way for positive ties between India and Türkiye. The development comes even as Türkiye is keen to become a member of the BRICS grouping. Joining BRICS could offer Türkiye new economic opportunities, including enhanced trade relations, investment from BRICS countries, and participation in alternative financial mechanisms like the New Development Bank. India is one of the founding members of the BRICS grouping. During his UNGA address, Erdoğan pointed out, "We maintain our will to develop our relations with BRICS, which brings together emerging economies" and that his country is "deepening engagement with regional organizations, such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), the Pacific Islands Forum and particularly ASEAN." Also read | India slams Erdogan's Kashmir remark as 'gross interference' in internal affairs IORA is another grouping that has India as its key member. Last week, India announced its new ambassador to the country, Muktesh Kumar Pardeshi who is currently an officer on special duty in the Ministry of External Affairs.

For first time in years, Türkiye President Erdogan skips mention of Kashmir at UNGA address

<p>The Indian Supreme Court on Wednesday (Sep 25) closed the proceedings against&nbsp;a lower court judge after he made remarks, referring to a Muslim-dominated area as ‘mini-Pakistan'. A five-judge bench, Justices S Khanna, B R Gavai, S Kant, and H Roy, led by&nbsp;Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud said the decision was taken after the judge apologised and&nbsp;in the wider interest of justice and dignity of the judiciary.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The apex court had taken suo moto cognisance of the issue last week and called out&nbsp;Karnataka High Court judge&nbsp;Vedavyasachar Srishananda for his insensitive comment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"No one can call any part of territory of India as Pakistan," CJI Chandrachud declared.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is fundamentally against the territorial integrity of the nation. The answer to sunlight is more sunlight and not to suppress what happens in court. The answer is not to close it down."</p>

<p>The CJI said such observations may indicate personal biases which may be directed at a certain gender or community. Thus, judges should be wary of making&nbsp;patriarchal or misogynistic comments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We express our serious concern about observations on a certain gender or a community and such observations are liable to be construed in a negative light. We hope and trust that the responsibilities entrusted to all stakeholders are discharged without bias and caution," CJI added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did&nbsp;Srishananda comment?</strong></h2>

<p>During a recent hearing, Justice V Srishananda expressed his views on traffic conditions near the Mysore Road flyover in Bengaluru, where he made te contentious remark.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Go towards the Mysore Road Flyover, every autorickshaw has got 10 people. The Mysore Road Flyover from the market to Goripalya is in Pakistan, not in India. This is the reality.&nbsp;However strict an officer you send, he will be beaten. This is not on any channel.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-supreme-court-halts-orders-requiring-eateries-to-display-owner-names-along-kanwar-yatra-route-743038"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India: Supreme Court halts orders requiring eateries to display owner names along Kanwar Yatra route</strong></a></p>

<p>A video clip of the judge making the remarks went viral on social media which instantly brought him flak and the legal trouble.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another video showed Justice&nbsp;Srishananda telling a female lawyer that she seemed to know a lot about the "opposition party", so much so that she might be able to reveal the colour of their undergarments.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Indian Supreme Court on Wednesday (Sep 25) closed the proceedings against a lower court judge after he made remarks, referring to a Muslim-dominated area as ‘mini-Pakistan'.

The Indian Supreme Court on Wednesday (Sep 25) closed the proceedings against a lower court judge after he made remarks, referring to a Muslim-dominated area as ‘mini-Pakistan'. A five-judge bench, Justices S Khanna, B R Gavai, S Kant, and H Roy, led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud said the decision was taken after the judge apologised and in the wider interest of justice and dignity of the judiciary. The apex court had taken suo moto cognisance of the issue last week and called out Karnataka High Court judge Vedavyasachar Srishananda for his insensitive comment. "No one can call any part of territory of India as Pakistan," CJI Chandrachud declared. "It is fundamentally against the territorial integrity of the nation. The answer to sunlight is more sunlight and not to suppress what happens in court. The answer is not to close it down." The CJI said such observations may indicate personal biases which may be directed at a certain gender or community. Thus, judges should be wary of making patriarchal or misogynistic comments. "We express our serious concern about observations on a certain gender or a community and such observations are liable to be construed in a negative light. We hope and trust that the responsibilities entrusted to all stakeholders are discharged without bias and caution," CJI added. What did Srishananda comment? During a recent hearing, Justice V Srishananda expressed his views on traffic conditions near the Mysore Road flyover in Bengaluru, where he made te contentious remark. “Go towards the Mysore Road Flyover, every autorickshaw has got 10 people. The Mysore Road Flyover from the market to Goripalya is in Pakistan, not in India. This is the reality. However strict an officer you send, he will be beaten. This is not on any channel.” Also read | India: Supreme Court halts orders requiring eateries to display owner names along Kanwar Yatra route A video clip of the judge making the remarks went viral on social media which instantly brought him flak and the legal trouble. Another video showed Justice Srishananda telling a female lawyer that she seemed to know a lot about the "opposition party", so much so that she might be able to reveal the colour of their undergarments. (With inputs from agencies)

India: SC closes case against judge who called Muslim-majority area 'mini-Pakistan'

<p>Kangana Ranaut, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP for the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh withdrew her statement on the repealed farm laws after facing criticism and said that she stands with the party on it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hours after Kangana asserted that her statement on the issue was her personal views, she withdrew the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In her statement, she urged farmers to ask Prime Minister Narendra Modi to reinstate the three repealed farm laws of 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, her statement prompted criticism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Many people are upset and disappointed by my remarks. When the three farmers' laws were proposed, a lot of us supported it. But with a lot of sensitivity and sympathy, our PM repealed these laws. It’s the responsibility of all the party workers to treat his words with dignity. I also have to keep in mind that I am no longer just an actor but also a BJP member. My opinions can’t be personal, they have to reflect the party’s stand," she said in a video on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kangana-ranaut-confesses-she-was-reprimanded-by-party-for-controversial-farmer-protest-comment-754136"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Kangana Ranaut confesses she was 'reprimanded' by party for controversial farmer protest comment</strong></a></p>

<p>“I regret if I have disappointed anyone with my words or opinions. I take my words back,” she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She posted the video with the caption, “I stand with my party regarding Farmers Law.”</p>

<p>Kangana, on Tuesday, asserted that her views are "personal and they don't represent (the) party's stand on those bills."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Newly elected BJP MP Kangana Ranaut slams Bollywood's silence on slap controversy</strong></p>

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<p>This comes after BJP's national spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia distanced the party from Kangana's statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Kangana Ranaut’s remarks on the repealed farm laws are doing the rounds on social media. I want to make it clear that this is Kangana Ranaut’s personal view. Neither has BJP authorised her to give such statements nor does her statement reflect the BJP’s views on the repealed farm laws. Which is why we rebut her statement,” Bhatia said.</p>

<h2><strong>Kangana Ranaut's statement&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier on Monday, Mandi MP Kangana urged farmers to demand that the central government reinstate the three farm laws repealed in 2021 after widespread protests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She was speaking at a religious fair in Nachan Assembly, part of her constituency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I believe the repealed farm laws should be brought back. I understand it may become controversial, but I think these farmer-welfare-oriented laws should return. Farmers should demand these laws themselves. Just as farmers in other regions are benefiting, there should be no obstacles to their development,” she said in her statement.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Congress criticised her statement&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge slammed BJP after Kangana's remarks, which came just ahead of the October 5 Haryana Assembly elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kharge said that Congress "strongly opposes any talk of re-implementing the three black anti-farmer laws”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Even after the martyrdom of 750 farmers, the anti-farmer BJP and Modi government did not realize their grave crime! Due to the statements made by Modiji, his ministers, MPs and propaganda machinery have become accustomed to insulting farmers,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This time, farmers from all the electoral states, including Haryana, will get a befitting reply to the derogatory remarks of the Prime Minister himself in Parliament, calling them ‘agitators’ and ‘parasites’,” Kharge said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, farmer union leaders called Kangana's statement a 'tactic' to be in the spotlight.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dr Darshan Pal, national coordination committee member of Samyukta Kisan Morcha, said that the MP was trying to “provoke” farmers.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Kangana Ranaut, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP for the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh withdrew her statement on the repealed farm laws after facing criticism and said that she stands with the party on it.

Kangana Ranaut, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP for the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh withdrew her statement on the repealed farm laws after facing criticism and said that she stands with the party on it. Hours after Kangana asserted that her statement on the issue was her personal views, she withdrew the statement. In her statement, she urged farmers to ask Prime Minister Narendra Modi to reinstate the three repealed farm laws of 2020. However, her statement prompted criticism. "Many people are upset and disappointed by my remarks. When the three farmers' laws were proposed, a lot of us supported it. But with a lot of sensitivity and sympathy, our PM repealed these laws. It’s the responsibility of all the party workers to treat his words with dignity. I also have to keep in mind that I am no longer just an actor but also a BJP member. My opinions can’t be personal, they have to reflect the party’s stand," she said in a video on X. Also read: Kangana Ranaut confesses she was 'reprimanded' by party for controversial farmer protest comment “I regret if I have disappointed anyone with my words or opinions. I take my words back,” she added. She posted the video with the caption, “I stand with my party regarding Farmers Law.” Kangana, on Tuesday, asserted that her views are "personal and they don't represent (the) party's stand on those bills." Watch | Newly elected BJP MP Kangana Ranaut slams Bollywood's silence on slap controversy × This comes after BJP's national spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia distanced the party from Kangana's statement. “Kangana Ranaut’s remarks on the repealed farm laws are doing the rounds on social media. I want to make it clear that this is Kangana Ranaut’s personal view. Neither has BJP authorised her to give such statements nor does her statement reflect the BJP’s views on the repealed farm laws. Which is why we rebut her statement,” Bhatia said. Kangana Ranaut's statement Earlier on Monday, Mandi MP Kangana urged farmers to demand that the central government reinstate the three farm laws repealed in 2021 after widespread protests. She was speaking at a religious fair in Nachan Assembly, part of her constituency. “I believe the repealed farm laws should be brought back. I understand it may become controversial, but I think these farmer-welfare-oriented laws should return. Farmers should demand these laws themselves. Just as farmers in other regions are benefiting, there should be no obstacles to their development,” she said in her statement. Congress criticised her statement Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge slammed BJP after Kangana's remarks, which came just ahead of the October 5 Haryana Assembly elections. Kharge said that Congress "strongly opposes any talk of re-implementing the three black anti-farmer laws”. “Even after the martyrdom of 750 farmers, the anti-farmer BJP and Modi government did not realize their grave crime! Due to the statements made by Modiji, his ministers, MPs and propaganda machinery have become accustomed to insulting farmers,” he added. “This time, farmers from all the electoral states, including Haryana, will get a befitting reply to the derogatory remarks of the Prime Minister himself in Parliament, calling them ‘agitators’ and ‘parasites’,” Kharge said. Meanwhile, farmer union leaders called Kangana's statement a 'tactic' to be in the spotlight. Dr Darshan Pal, national coordination committee member of Samyukta Kisan Morcha, said that the MP was trying to “provoke” farmers. (With inputs from agencies)

'I stand with my party': BJP MP Kangana Ranaut withdraws statement on farm laws

<p>Antibiotics distributed to government hospitals in the western Indian city of Nagpur were nothing but talcum powder mixed with starch, a 1,200-page chargesheet filed in the spurious drugs supply case unearthed last year has revealed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the chargesheet, the counterfeit antibiotics were made in a Haridwar-based laboratory of veterinary medicines. The fake medicines were supplied across India, including hospitals in Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The money to buy the fake medicines came from hawala channels that the racketeers used to transfer hundreds&nbsp;of thousands of dollars from Mumbai to Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An individual named Hemant Muley has been registered as the main offender as he participated in the tender to supply fake medicines. Apart from him,&nbsp;Mihir Trivedi and Vijay Chaudhury have also been charged with the latter already in jail for another fraud case.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chaudhury later named Saharanpur-based Robin Taneja alias Himanshu and Raman Taneja as his compadre in the operation.</p>

<p>"We reached the Haridwar veterinary laboratory of Amit Dhiman after the Taneja brothers named him. Dhiman was in jail after being arrested by Uttarakhand STF. He was later arrested in our case too," said IPS officer Anil Mhaske.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lab-grown-superbug-to-treat-sewage-water-in-australia-375928" target="_blank"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Lab grown superbug to treat sewage water in Australia</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lab-grown-superbug-to-treat-sewage-water-in-australia-375928/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>How was the fake medicine case busted?</strong></h2>

<p>The state Food and Drug Administration (FDA) busted the racket in December 2023 when&nbsp;around 21,600 Ciprofloxacin 500mg tablets were confiscated&nbsp;from the medicine stores under the Nagpur Civil Surgeon at Indira Gandhi Government Medical College and Hospital (IGGMCH).</p>

<p>“The samples were sent to the government laboratory for testing, and the results indicated a complete absence of medicinal value in the tablets. In response to the findings, we conducted a raid at the government store at IGGMC and seized a stock of 21,600 tablets,” the FDA said back then.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/alarming-presence-of-superbugs-in-21-top-indian-hospitals-reveals-icmr-report-757767"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Alarming presence of superbugs in 21 top Indian hospitals, reveals ICMR report</strong></a><br />
<br />
The antibiotic tablets, intended for treating bacterial infections from urinary tract infections to pneumonia, were distributed in 2022 and 2023 in government-run civil hospitals across the district.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Antibiotics distributed to government hospitals in the western Indian city of Nagpur were nothing but talcum powder mixed with starch, a 1,200-page chargesheet filed in the spurious drugs supply case unearthed last year has revealed.

Antibiotics distributed to government hospitals in the western Indian city of Nagpur were nothing but talcum powder mixed with starch, a 1,200-page chargesheet filed in the spurious drugs supply case unearthed last year has revealed. According to the chargesheet, the counterfeit antibiotics were made in a Haridwar-based laboratory of veterinary medicines. The fake medicines were supplied across India, including hospitals in Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand. The money to buy the fake medicines came from hawala channels that the racketeers used to transfer hundreds of thousands of dollars from Mumbai to Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh. An individual named Hemant Muley has been registered as the main offender as he participated in the tender to supply fake medicines. Apart from him, Mihir Trivedi and Vijay Chaudhury have also been charged with the latter already in jail for another fraud case. Chaudhury later named Saharanpur-based Robin Taneja alias Himanshu and Raman Taneja as his compadre in the operation. "We reached the Haridwar veterinary laboratory of Amit Dhiman after the Taneja brothers named him. Dhiman was in jail after being arrested by Uttarakhand STF. He was later arrested in our case too," said IPS officer Anil Mhaske. Watch | Lab grown superbug to treat sewage water in Australia How was the fake medicine case busted? The state Food and Drug Administration (FDA) busted the racket in December 2023 when around 21,600 Ciprofloxacin 500mg tablets were confiscated from the medicine stores under the Nagpur Civil Surgeon at Indira Gandhi Government Medical College and Hospital (IGGMCH). “The samples were sent to the government laboratory for testing, and the results indicated a complete absence of medicinal value in the tablets. In response to the findings, we conducted a raid at the government store at IGGMC and seized a stock of 21,600 tablets,” the FDA said back then. Also read | Alarming presence of superbugs in 21 top Indian hospitals, reveals ICMR report The antibiotic tablets, intended for treating bacterial infections from urinary tract infections to pneumonia, were distributed in 2022 and 2023 in government-run civil hospitals across the district. (With inputs from agencies)

Talcum powder mixed with starch used in antibiotics supplied to Indian government hospitals

<p>The sixth quad summit was held in US President Biden's hometown, Wilmington, Delaware as a tribute to him. The summit was a befitting occasion to express goodbye to Biden and Kishida, whose terms of office will end before the next summit in India in 2025. It was also an occasion to understand how India is playing a bigger role integrated into the Quad.</p>

<p>PM Modi is the seniormost leader among the Quad. It was gracious of India to have allowed the US to host the 2024 Summit, which was allotted to India. Now, New Delhi will host the 2025 Summit. It would be a readymade program for the new US president to visit India in their first year. Quad provides India more opportunities to meet with strategic partners annually. The Quad summit is a useful aggregation for India when, for instance, it attends the BRICS summit or holds the annual summit with Russia.</p>

<p>Politically, there are three important takeaways for India from this Quad Summit. First, the US has come around to recognizing that the UN and its security council need reform beyond what the US thought necessary. The Declaration talks about broad-based representation in the UN Security Council and the US is now more ready to support India and Japan.</p>

<p>Secondly, the Quad counter-terrorism working group met for the first time last year and will meet annually. Mitigating terrorism through information sharing, use of unmanned systems and finding new lines of collaboration are all good news for India, which has for long sought the US and its allies to take terrorism threats more seriously.</p>

<p>The third aspect is that without militarising the Quad, India has yet joined in efforts to have common understanding on maritime security. Working through a host of initiatives, Quad is expanding cooperation in maritime domain awareness, collaboration among coastguards, and increasing efforts for quicker and more effective HADR. India is now a clear partner of such Quad initiatives, and not just a recipient of support.</p>

<p>The Quad has positioned itself as a challenge to the Chinese view of the region. It engages ASEAN, the Pacific Islands Forum and the IORA for better and sustainable development. Thus, the Quad supports the free and open Indo-Pacific and check China's aggressive manoeuvres, which is India's aim as well.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/quad-summit-modi-attends-quad-leaders-summit-in-delaware-760818"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Quad Summit: Modi attends Quad Leaders' Summit in Delaware</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>There are areas in which India is now directly contributing, and these need to be highlighted. The Quad Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) has performed well in raising awareness. Information is now collected and shared with greater frequency among the 24 countries who are currently benefiting. The Information Fusion Centre for the Indian Ocean region in Gurugram, India is an indispensable part, particularly in dealing with countries of the IORA, in which India’s leadership is recognised. India will chair IORA in 2025.</p>

<p>India's view of the Indo-Pacific as including the Indian Ocean up to the shores of Africa is now better accepted. The US will work through its Central Command and AFRICOM, with Quad partners in the Indian Ocean and in Africa. A new maritime initiative for training in the Indo-Pacific ‘MAITRI’ will bring capacity-building efforts into the IPMDA. India will contribute trainings under ITEC program to countries in IOR.</p>

<p>The health sector brought vaccine diplomacy and a Quad Health Partnership. India has been at the fulcrum of the vaccine manufacturing. Further efforts to create vaccines for mpox and future pandemics would utilize Indian capabilities. India is contributing to the Cancer Moonshot dealing with cervical cancer. The Serum Institute of India, in partnership with Gavi, will support 40 million HPV vaccine doses. India will provide HPV sampling kits, and cervical cancer vaccines worth $7.5 million to the region. Through its $10 million commitment to the WHO’s Global Initiative on Digital Health, India will offer technical assistance to interested countries for the adoption of its Digital Public Infrastructure that helps in cancer screening.</p>

<p>Infrastructure is an area where the Quad lags China. Various initiatives among India-Japan- US, the Japan-US- Australia or the G7 have not borne much fruit. China's BRI remains the dominant theme for infrastructure development in the<br />
region. Now the Quad is taking shorter steps towards quality infrastructure and three elements with Indian participation are visible.</p>

<p>Cable connectivity through a resilient partnership tasks Quad countries to provide maritime cable networks away from Chinese control. India has commissioned a feasibility study to determine how maritime cable networks can be facilitated by aggregating maintenance and repair capacities of the Quad partners in the Indo-Pacific. This will prevent vulnerabilities hitting the proposed networks and provide them with durability and reliability.</p>

<p>A Quad Ports of the Future Partnership aims to develop port infrastructure across the Indo-Pacific. This will challenge Chinese domination of new ports in ASEAN countries, in Sri Lanka, Pakistan and in Africa, but would require considerable effort and investment. India will start this with a Quad regional ports and transportation conference in Mumbai in 2025. This would seek commonalities, resources and include the private sector to build effective port infrastructure ahead. The launch of a Quad Indo Pacific logistics network pilot project will support the ports initiative, as well as the HADR efforts.</p>

<p>The Quad infrastructure fellowships have started well and now cover 2200 experts. They will now work more closely with the India-led Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, particularly to enhance power sector resilience.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-meets-biden-from-setting-up-of-semiconductor-plant-to-shoring-up-drone-deal-heres-what-happened-760875"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;PM Modi meets Biden: From setting up of semiconductor plant to shoring up drone deal, here's what happened</strong></a></p>

<p>The Quad is focusing more on critical and emerging technologies and India's interest in this is stoked by the emphasis on semiconductors, where complementarities are leveraged to create competition and add resilience to Quad's semiconductor supply chain.</p>

<p>To support climate and clean energy, India committed to invest $ 2 million in new solar projects in the island countries of Fiji in the South Pacific, and Comoros, Madagascar and Seychelles in the Indian Ocean. The US has provided a $250 million DFC loan to Tata Power Solar to create a solar cell manufacturing facility. A similar loan of $500 billion, to First Solar to build a 3.3 GW solar module manufacturing facility in India is also mentioned in the Wilmington Declaration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian capabilities are now much better leveraged and integrated into the growing Quad functional collaboration matrix. As a developing country, India uses its development cooperation experience to advance Quad as a Global Force for Good.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.</strong></em></p>


The sixth quad summit was held in US President Biden's hometown, Wilmington, Delaware as a tribute to him. The summit was a befitting occasion to express goodbye to Biden and Kishida, whose terms of office will end before the next summit in India in 2025.

The sixth quad summit was held in US President Biden's hometown, Wilmington, Delaware as a tribute to him. The summit was a befitting occasion to express goodbye to Biden and Kishida, whose terms of office will end before the next summit in India in 2025. It was also an occasion to understand how India is playing a bigger role integrated into the Quad. PM Modi is the seniormost leader among the Quad. It was gracious of India to have allowed the US to host the 2024 Summit, which was allotted to India. Now, New Delhi will host the 2025 Summit. It would be a readymade program for the new US president to visit India in their first year. Quad provides India more opportunities to meet with strategic partners annually. The Quad summit is a useful aggregation for India when, for instance, it attends the BRICS summit or holds the annual summit with Russia. Politically, there are three important takeaways for India from this Quad Summit. First, the US has come around to recognizing that the UN and its security council need reform beyond what the US thought necessary. The Declaration talks about broad-based representation in the UN Security Council and the US is now more ready to support India and Japan. Secondly, the Quad counter-terrorism working group met for the first time last year and will meet annually. Mitigating terrorism through information sharing, use of unmanned systems and finding new lines of collaboration are all good news for India, which has for long sought the US and its allies to take terrorism threats more seriously. The third aspect is that without militarising the Quad, India has yet joined in efforts to have common understanding on maritime security. Working through a host of initiatives, Quad is expanding cooperation in maritime domain awareness, collaboration among coastguards, and increasing efforts for quicker and more effective HADR. India is now a clear partner of such Quad initiatives, and not just a recipient of support. The Quad has positioned itself as a challenge to the Chinese view of the region. It engages ASEAN, the Pacific Islands Forum and the IORA for better and sustainable development. Thus, the Quad supports the free and open Indo-Pacific and check China's aggressive manoeuvres, which is India's aim as well. Watch | Quad Summit: Modi attends Quad Leaders' Summit in Delaware × There are areas in which India is now directly contributing, and these need to be highlighted. The Quad Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) has performed well in raising awareness. Information is now collected and shared with greater frequency among the 24 countries who are currently benefiting. The Information Fusion Centre for the Indian Ocean region in Gurugram, India is an indispensable part, particularly in dealing with countries of the IORA, in which India’s leadership is recognised. India will chair IORA in 2025. India's view of the Indo-Pacific as including the Indian Ocean up to the shores of Africa is now better accepted. The US will work through its Central Command and AFRICOM, with Quad partners in the Indian Ocean and in Africa. A new maritime initiative for training in the Indo-Pacific ‘MAITRI’ will bring capacity-building efforts into the IPMDA. India will contribute trainings under ITEC program to countries in IOR. The health sector brought vaccine diplomacy and a Quad Health Partnership. India has been at the fulcrum of the vaccine manufacturing. Further efforts to create vaccines for mpox and future pandemics would utilize Indian capabilities. India is contributing to the Cancer Moonshot dealing with cervical cancer. The Serum Institute of India, in partnership with Gavi, will support 40 million HPV vaccine doses. India will provide HPV sampling kits, and cervical cancer vaccines worth $7.5 million to the region. Through its $10 million commitment to the WHO’s Global Initiative on Digital Health, India will offer technical assistance to interested countries for the adoption of its Digital Public Infrastructure that helps in cancer screening. Infrastructure is an area where the Quad lags China. Various initiatives among India-Japan- US, the Japan-US- Australia or the G7 have not borne much fruit. China's BRI remains the dominant theme for infrastructure development in the region. Now the Quad is taking shorter steps towards quality infrastructure and three elements with Indian participation are visible. Cable connectivity through a resilient partnership tasks Quad countries to provide maritime cable networks away from Chinese control. India has commissioned a feasibility study to determine how maritime cable networks can be facilitated by aggregating maintenance and repair capacities of the Quad partners in the Indo-Pacific. This will prevent vulnerabilities hitting the proposed networks and provide them with durability and reliability. A Quad Ports of the Future Partnership aims to develop port infrastructure across the Indo-Pacific. This will challenge Chinese domination of new ports in ASEAN countries, in Sri Lanka, Pakistan and in Africa, but would require considerable effort and investment. India will start this with a Quad regional ports and transportation conference in Mumbai in 2025. This would seek commonalities, resources and include the private sector to build effective port infrastructure ahead. The launch of a Quad Indo Pacific logistics network pilot project will support the ports initiative, as well as the HADR efforts. The Quad infrastructure fellowships have started well and now cover 2200 experts. They will now work more closely with the India-led Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, particularly to enhance power sector resilience. Also read | PM Modi meets Biden: From setting up of semiconductor plant to shoring up drone deal, here's what happened The Quad is focusing more on critical and emerging technologies and India's interest in this is stoked by the emphasis on semiconductors, where complementarities are leveraged to create competition and add resilience to Quad's semiconductor supply chain. To support climate and clean energy, India committed to invest $ 2 million in new solar projects in the island countries of Fiji in the South Pacific, and Comoros, Madagascar and Seychelles in the Indian Ocean. The US has provided a $250 million DFC loan to Tata Power Solar to create a solar cell manufacturing facility. A similar loan of $500 billion, to First Solar to build a 3.3 GW solar module manufacturing facility in India is also mentioned in the Wilmington Declaration. Indian capabilities are now much better leveraged and integrated into the growing Quad functional collaboration matrix. As a developing country, India uses its development cooperation experience to advance Quad as a Global Force for Good. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Quad enlarges space for India

<p>Sri Lanka's newly-elected President&nbsp;Anura Kumara Dissanayake has said that he didn't want Colombo to be 'sandwiched' between India and China as the two heavyweights of the region attempt to assert themselves on the geostrategically important island nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The&nbsp;National People’s Power (NPP) leader said he wanted to foster a balanced relationship in what was a clear foreign policy vision for the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We don’t want Sri Lanka to be sandwiched, especially between China and India. Both countries are valued friends and, under an NPP government, we expect them to become close partners. We also want to maintain relations with the EU, the Middle East and Africa,” said&nbsp;Dissanayake in a September 3 interview.</p>

<p>“There are many power camps within a multipolar system. We won’t be a part of that geopolitical fight, nor will we be aligned with any party,” he added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sri-lanka-election-wickremesinghe-says-handing-over-beloved-child-of-sri-lanka-761038" target="_blank"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Sri Lanka Election: Wickremesinghe says Handing Over 'Beloved Child Of Sri Lanka'</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sri-lanka-election-wickremesinghe-says-handing-over-beloved-child-of-sri-lanka-761038/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Dissanayake takes oath</strong></h2>

<p>On Monday (Sep 23),&nbsp;Dissanayake took oath as the 10th president of the country in a&nbsp;swearing-in ceremony held at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo. He emerged victorious&nbsp;over his closest rival, Sajith Premadasa, by a margin of approximately 10 percentage points after a historic second round of counting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was one of the first world leaders to congratulate&nbsp; Dissanayake.&nbsp;Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi wrote: “Congratulations @anuradisanayake, on your victory in the Sri Lankan Presidential elections. Sri Lanka holds a special place in India's Neighbourhood First Policy and Vision SAGAR.”</p>

<p>"I look forward to working closely with you to further strengthen our multifaceted cooperation for the benefit of our people and the entire region," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/anuradisanayake?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anuradisanayake</a>, on your victory in the Sri Lankan Presidential elections. Sri Lanka holds a special place in India's Neighbourhood First Policy and Vision SAGAR. I look forward to working closely with you to further strengthen our multifaceted cooperation for…</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1837920363684274264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Soon after, Chinese President Xi Jinping also congratulated&nbsp;Dissanayake, whilst hoping to broaden cooperation with Sri Lanka under the Belt and Road Infrastructure (BRI).</p>

<p>"I attach great importance to the development of China-Sri Lanka relations and am willing to work with Mr President to continue our traditional friendship (and) enhance mutual political trust," Xi said in a message to Dissanayake, according to state broadcaster CCTV.</p>

<p>Dissanayake takes over the presidency at a critical time when Sri Lanka needs its economy to regenerate two years after the Marxist leader was at the forefront of the protests, which drove the Rajapaksas out of power.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Sri Lanka's newly-elected President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has said that he didn't want Colombo to be 'sandwiched' between India and China as the two heavyweights of the region attempt to assert themselves on the geostrategically important island nation.

Sri Lanka's newly-elected President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has said that he didn't want Colombo to be 'sandwiched' between India and China as the two heavyweights of the region attempt to assert themselves on the geostrategically important island nation. The National People’s Power (NPP) leader said he wanted to foster a balanced relationship in what was a clear foreign policy vision for the country. “We don’t want Sri Lanka to be sandwiched, especially between China and India. Both countries are valued friends and, under an NPP government, we expect them to become close partners. We also want to maintain relations with the EU, the Middle East and Africa,” said Dissanayake in a September 3 interview. “There are many power camps within a multipolar system. We won’t be a part of that geopolitical fight, nor will we be aligned with any party,” he added. Watch | Sri Lanka Election: Wickremesinghe says Handing Over 'Beloved Child Of Sri Lanka' Dissanayake takes oath On Monday (Sep 23), Dissanayake took oath as the 10th president of the country in a swearing-in ceremony held at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo. He emerged victorious over his closest rival, Sajith Premadasa, by a margin of approximately 10 percentage points after a historic second round of counting. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was one of the first world leaders to congratulate Dissanayake. Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi wrote: “Congratulations @anuradisanayake, on your victory in the Sri Lankan Presidential elections. Sri Lanka holds a special place in India's Neighbourhood First Policy and Vision SAGAR.” "I look forward to working closely with you to further strengthen our multifaceted cooperation for the benefit of our people and the entire region," he added. Congratulations @anuradisanayake, on your victory in the Sri Lankan Presidential elections. Sri Lanka holds a special place in India's Neighbourhood First Policy and Vision SAGAR. I look forward to working closely with you to further strengthen our multifaceted cooperation for… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 22, 2024 × Soon after, Chinese President Xi Jinping also congratulated Dissanayake, whilst hoping to broaden cooperation with Sri Lanka under the Belt and Road Infrastructure (BRI). "I attach great importance to the development of China-Sri Lanka relations and am willing to work with Mr President to continue our traditional friendship (and) enhance mutual political trust," Xi said in a message to Dissanayake, according to state broadcaster CCTV. Dissanayake takes over the presidency at a critical time when Sri Lanka needs its economy to regenerate two years after the Marxist leader was at the forefront of the protests, which drove the Rajapaksas out of power. (With inputs from agencies)

‘We expect them...’: Sri Lanka’s new President Anura Dissanayake hints who he’ll pick between India and China

<p>In a fresh wave of attacks, Israel carried out extensive air strikes in southern Lebanon on Monday (Sep 23), killing 274 people and injuring over 700 others, according to the Lebanese health ministry. Israel's defence ministry has warned people to immediately leave the homes and other buildings where the Iran-backed Hezbollah has allegedly stored weapons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Kerala in India has reported its first case of Mpox strain Clade 1b. It was confirmed in a patient from Kerala, an Indian news agency reported, citing official sources.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-strikes-more-than-300-hezbollah-targets-182-killed-over-700-injured-761254"><strong>Israel strikes more than 300 Hezbollah targets, 274 killed, over 700 injured</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/23/456348-untitled-design-1.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Israel carried out extensive air strikes in southern Lebanon, killing 274 people, including 21 children, and injuring 700 others in air raids on towns and villages, according to the Lebanese health ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-first-case-of-mpox-clade-1b-strain-detected-from-kerala-761279"><strong>India: First case of mpox Clade 1b strain detected from Kerala</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/18/455489-untitled-design-6.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>India on Monday (Sep 23) reported its first case of Mpox strain Clade 1b. The strain was confirmed in a patient from Kerala, reported an Indian news agency citing official sources.&nbsp;Clade 1b strain has been detected in a 38-year-old man from Kerala's Malappuram district. The man, as per reports, had recently returned from the United Arab Emirates.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-pm-slams-israels-war-of-extermination-after-multiple-strikes-kill-over-150-761260"><strong>Lebanon PM slams Israel’s ‘war of extermination’ as death toll from strikes rises to 274</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/23/456351-new-wion-81.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Lebanon Prime Minister Najib Mikati on Monday (Sep 23) slammed Israel's "destructive plan" of strikes against his country as a "war of extermination". His statement comes as the Israeli military struck over 300 Hezbollah targets in east and south Lebanon.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-mp-alleges-pager-blast-could-be-behind-president-ebrahim-raisis-death-761213"><strong>Iran MP alleges pager blast could be behind president Ebrahim Raisi's death</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/23/456323-new-wion-78.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:15,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:52,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1702}">Was a pager blast behind the death of Iranian president Ebrahim Raisi? As Iran continues to reel from the pager and walkie-talkie blasts that claimed the lives of dozens of people and injured nearly 3,000, reports suggest that a similar blast could've been behind Raisi's death in a helicopter crash in May.</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:15,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:52,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1702}"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-says-will-study-zelenskys-victory-plan-if-released-officially-761234"><strong>Kremlin says will study Zelensky's 'victory plan' if released officially</strong></a></p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:15,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:52,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1702}"><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/03/452822-untitled-design-2024-09-03t232456194.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>The Kremlin on Monday, said that it would study what Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has pressed as his "victory plan" to end the war with Russia after it releases official information.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/badlapur-horror-accused-akshay-shinde-shot-dead-in-defence-after-he-opens-fire-at-police-761263"><strong>Badlapur horror: Accused Akshay Shinde shot dead in defence after he snatches weapon, opens fire at cops</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/21/450538-badlapur-school-case.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>In a shocking development, the Badlapur sexual assault case&nbsp;prime accused Akshay Shinde succumbed to injuries after he snatched the revolver of a police officer&nbsp;in the police van and opened fire on the cops,&nbsp;leading to retaliatory firing&nbsp;in which&nbsp;he&nbsp;got shot, said Thane Police, according to news agency ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musks-xs-takes-u-turn-complies-with-brazilian-court-orders-to-undo-ban-761222"><strong>Elon Musk’s X takes U-turn, complies with Brazilian court orders to undo ban</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/17/449929-elonmuskandthenewlogox-sixteennine.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Elon Musk's social media platform X has now complied with the Brazil court's demands and will resume its operations in the country.&nbsp;The Brazilian Supreme Court banned platform X in August due to its failure to adhere to court orders related to hate speech moderation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-joins-farooq-abdullah-for-the-final-day-of-campaigning-in-2nd-phase-of-jk-assembly-elections-761233"><strong>Rahul Gandhi joins Farooq Abdullah for the final day of campaigning in 2nd phase of J&amp;K assembly elections</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/23/456333-new-wion-80.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>On the last day of the campaigning for the second phase of the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, mega rallies were held by the top leadership of multiple political parties. Leader of the opposition, Rahul Gandhi, was in Surankote area of Poonch district and later in Srinagar to address a mega rally.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-gears-up-for-shock-test-return-with-bgt-looming-training-video-goes-viral-watch-761256"><strong>Hardik Pandya gears up for ‘shock’ Test return with BGT looming, training video goes viral - WATCH</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/23/456349-hardik-pandya-gears-up-for-shock-test-return-with-bgt-looming-watch-video.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Ace India all-rounder Hardik Pandya is in line to make a shock return to Test cricket for the first time in six years. Having last appeared in the whites for the country in 2018, Pandya is now gearing up for the five-match Test series Down Under starting November 22.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-laapataa-ladies-worthy-contender-for-oscars-fans-feel-all-we-imagine-as-light-had-a-better-chance-761277"><strong>Laapataa Ladies worthy contender for Oscars? Fans feel All We Imagine As Light had a better chance</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/23/456361-your-paragraph-text-2024-09-23t205421558.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Kiran Rao's<em>&nbsp;Laapataa Ladies</em>&nbsp;has been selected as India's official entry to Oscars 2025 in the Best International Feature Film category. While the decision, made by the Film Federation of India, has been greeted with a lot of joy by cinema lovers, it has also left the internet divided. Like every year, some have disagreed with FFI's decision and expressed that there was a better film that should have represented India this year at the Oscars. Some on social media have stated that Payal Kapadia's<em>&nbsp;All We Imagine As Light&nbsp;</em>would have been a worthy pick.&nbsp;</p>


In a fresh wave of attacks, Israel carried out extensive air strikes in southern Lebanon on Monday (Sep 23), killing 274 people and injuring over 700 others, according to the Lebanese health ministry.

In a fresh wave of attacks, Israel carried out extensive air strikes in southern Lebanon on Monday (Sep 23), killing 274 people and injuring over 700 others, according to the Lebanese health ministry. Israel's defence ministry has warned people to immediately leave the homes and other buildings where the Iran-backed Hezbollah has allegedly stored weapons. Meanwhile, Kerala in India has reported its first case of Mpox strain Clade 1b. It was confirmed in a patient from Kerala, an Indian news agency reported, citing official sources. Click on the headlines to read more: Israel strikes more than 300 Hezbollah targets, 274 killed, over 700 injured Israel carried out extensive air strikes in southern Lebanon, killing 274 people, including 21 children, and injuring 700 others in air raids on towns and villages, according to the Lebanese health ministry. India: First case of mpox Clade 1b strain detected from Kerala India on Monday (Sep 23) reported its first case of Mpox strain Clade 1b. The strain was confirmed in a patient from Kerala, reported an Indian news agency citing official sources. Clade 1b strain has been detected in a 38-year-old man from Kerala's Malappuram district. The man, as per reports, had recently returned from the United Arab Emirates. Lebanon PM slams Israel’s ‘war of extermination’ as death toll from strikes rises to 274 Lebanon Prime Minister Najib Mikati on Monday (Sep 23) slammed Israel's "destructive plan" of strikes against his country as a "war of extermination". His statement comes as the Israeli military struck over 300 Hezbollah targets in east and south Lebanon. Iran MP alleges pager blast could be behind president Ebrahim Raisi's death Was a pager blast behind the death of Iranian president Ebrahim Raisi? As Iran continues to reel from the pager and walkie-talkie blasts that claimed the lives of dozens of people and injured nearly 3,000, reports suggest that a similar blast could've been behind Raisi's death in a helicopter crash in May. Kremlin says will study Zelensky's 'victory plan' if released officially The Kremlin on Monday, said that it would study what Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has pressed as his "victory plan" to end the war with Russia after it releases official information. Badlapur horror: Accused Akshay Shinde shot dead in defence after he snatches weapon, opens fire at cops In a shocking development, the Badlapur sexual assault case prime accused Akshay Shinde succumbed to injuries after he snatched the revolver of a police officer in the police van and opened fire on the cops, leading to retaliatory firing in which he got shot, said Thane Police, according to news agency ANI. Elon Musk’s X takes U-turn, complies with Brazilian court orders to undo ban Elon Musk's social media platform X has now complied with the Brazil court's demands and will resume its operations in the country. The Brazilian Supreme Court banned platform X in August due to its failure to adhere to court orders related to hate speech moderation. Rahul Gandhi joins Farooq Abdullah for the final day of campaigning in 2nd phase of J&K assembly elections On the last day of the campaigning for the second phase of the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, mega rallies were held by the top leadership of multiple political parties. Leader of the opposition, Rahul Gandhi, was in Surankote area of Poonch district and later in Srinagar to address a mega rally. Hardik Pandya gears up for ‘shock’ Test return with BGT looming, training video goes viral - WATCH Ace India all-rounder Hardik Pandya is in line to make a shock return to Test cricket for the first time in six years. Having last appeared in the whites for the country in 2018, Pandya is now gearing up for the five-match Test series Down Under starting November 22. Laapataa Ladies worthy contender for Oscars? Fans feel All We Imagine As Light had a better chance Kiran Rao's Laapataa Ladies has been selected as India's official entry to Oscars 2025 in the Best International Feature Film category. While the decision, made by the Film Federation of India, has been greeted with a lot of joy by cinema lovers, it has also left the internet divided. Like every year, some have disagreed with FFI's decision and expressed that there was a better film that should have represented India this year at the Oscars. Some on social media have stated that Payal Kapadia's All We Imagine As Light would have been a worthy pick.

Top 10 world news: 274 killed in Israeli strikes on Lebanon; Mpox Clade 1b first case in Kerala, and more

<p>The Indian Supreme Court on Monday (Sep 23) ruled that watching and storage of child pornography amounted to an offence under the&nbsp;Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO Act). In the process, the court overturned a Madras High Court ruling which stated that downloading and watching pornography involving children on digital devices was not an offence.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>A bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud and Justice Pardiwala said the High Court committed an "egregious error" in quashing the criminal proceedings. The bench set aside the decision and restored the criminal prosecution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The HC committed an error in its order and thus we set aside the HC order and we remit the matter back to the sessions court," the court observed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bench also explained the degree of&nbsp;mens rea (intention) required for such an act to constitute an offence under Section 15 of the POCSO Act. Notably, sub-section (1) of Section 15 penalises the failure to delete, destroy or report any child pornographic material that has been found to be stored or in possession by any person with an intention to share or transmit the same.</p>

<p>"Facilitation of such transmission, preparation, set up to enable transmit etc has to be there. Mens rea&nbsp;has to be found from the storage of such pornographic material. To establish offence under Section 15(3), apart from storage of child pornographic material, it has to be shown that such storage was done to make some gain or advantage."</p>

<p>The court also suggested that the Indian Parliament bring a law amending the POSCO Act to replace&nbsp;the term "child pornography" with "Child Sexual Exploitative and Abusive Material".</p>

<p>NGO, Just Right for Children Alliance, which worked for the welfare of children had filed the petition in the apex court demanding that the HC order be set aside and appropriate directors be issued in the matter.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/remove-child-sex-abuse-from-the-internet-india-warns-3-social-media-companies-643558"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Remove child sex abuse from the internet: India warns 3 social media companies</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did Madras High Court rule?</strong></h2>

<p>In January this year, the Madras High Court quashed the case against S Harish (28), charged&nbsp;for downloading and watching on his mobile phone some pornographic content involving children.</p>

<p>The court ruled that in order to consider what Harish did as an offence under Section 67-B of the Information&nbsp;Technology Act, 2000, he must have published, transmitted, and created material depicting children in a sexually explicit act or conduct.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/ai-researchers-delete-over-2000-web-links-to-suspected-child-sexual-abuse-imagery-754839"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;AI researchers delete over 2,000 web links to suspected child sexual abuse imagery</strong></a></p>

<p>A careful reading of this provision does not make watching child pornography, an offence under the said Section, it had said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Indian Supreme Court on Monday (Sep 23) ruled that watching and storage of child pornography amounted to an offence under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO Act).

The Indian Supreme Court on Monday (Sep 23) ruled that watching and storage of child pornography amounted to an offence under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO Act). In the process, the court overturned a Madras High Court ruling which stated that downloading and watching pornography involving children on digital devices was not an offence. A bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud and Justice Pardiwala said the High Court committed an "egregious error" in quashing the criminal proceedings. The bench set aside the decision and restored the criminal prosecution. "The HC committed an error in its order and thus we set aside the HC order and we remit the matter back to the sessions court," the court observed. The bench also explained the degree of mens rea (intention) required for such an act to constitute an offence under Section 15 of the POCSO Act. Notably, sub-section (1) of Section 15 penalises the failure to delete, destroy or report any child pornographic material that has been found to be stored or in possession by any person with an intention to share or transmit the same. "Facilitation of such transmission, preparation, set up to enable transmit etc has to be there. Mens rea has to be found from the storage of such pornographic material. To establish offence under Section 15(3), apart from storage of child pornographic material, it has to be shown that such storage was done to make some gain or advantage." The court also suggested that the Indian Parliament bring a law amending the POSCO Act to replace the term "child pornography" with "Child Sexual Exploitative and Abusive Material". NGO, Just Right for Children Alliance, which worked for the welfare of children had filed the petition in the apex court demanding that the HC order be set aside and appropriate directors be issued in the matter. Watch | Remove child sex abuse from the internet: India warns 3 social media companies × What did Madras High Court rule? In January this year, the Madras High Court quashed the case against S Harish (28), charged for downloading and watching on his mobile phone some pornographic content involving children. The court ruled that in order to consider what Harish did as an offence under Section 67-B of the Information Technology Act, 2000, he must have published, transmitted, and created material depicting children in a sexually explicit act or conduct. Also read | AI researchers delete over 2,000 web links to suspected child sexual abuse imagery A careful reading of this provision does not make watching child pornography, an offence under the said Section, it had said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Watching, storage of child pornography crime': Indian SC rules, quashing Madras HC's judgment

<p>The US has handed over to India 297 antiquities during the ongoing visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, officials said on Sunday (Sep 22).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Official sources said the illicit trafficking of cultural property is a longstanding issue that has affected many cultures and countries throughout history, and India has been particularly hit.</p>

<p>“Deepening cultural connect and strengthening the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural properties. I am extremely grateful to President Biden and the US Government for ensuring the return of 297 invaluable antiquities to India," PM Modi said on X (formerly Twitter).</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Deepening cultural connect and strengthening the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural properties.<br />
<br />
I am extremely grateful to President Biden and the US Government for ensuring the return of 297 invaluable antiquities to India. <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> <a href="https://t.co/0jziIYZ1GO">pic.twitter.com/0jziIYZ1GO</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1837688252670923099?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Some of the notable antiquities handed over are:</p>

<ul>
	<li>Apsara in sandstone from Central India belonging to 10-11th century C</li>
	<li>Jain Tirthankar in bronze from Central India belonging to 15-16th century CE</li>
	<li>Terracotta vase from Eastern India belonging to 3-4th century CE</li>
	<li>Stone Sculpture from South India belonging to 1st century BCE-1st century CE</li>
	<li>Lord Ganesha in Bronze from South India belonging to 17-18th century CE</li>
	<li>Standing Lord Buddha in sandstone from North India belonging 15-16th century CE</li>
	<li>Lord Krishna in bronze from South India belonging to 17-18th century CE</li>
	<li>Lord Karthikeya in granite from South India belonging to 13-14th century CE</li>
</ul>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-how-india-is-pushing-for-the-return-of-stolen-antiquities-618501"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: How India is pushing for the return of stolen antiquities</strong></a></p>

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<p>With this, the total number of ancient items recovered by India since 2014 has gone to 640, officials said, adding the number returned from the USA alone will be 578.</p>

<p>Apart from the current visit, the earlier visits of Modi to the USA have also been particularly fruitful in return of antiquities to India.</p>

<p>Officials said during his visit to the US in 2021, 157 antiquities were handed over by the US government, including the exquisite bronze Nataraja statue from the 12th century CE. Also, a few days after his US visit in 2023, 105 antiquities were returned to India.</p>

<p>India’s successful recoveries extend beyond the USA, with 16 artefacts being returned from the UK, 40 from Australia among others, they noted.</p>

<p>In stark contrast only one artefact was returned to India between 2004 and 2013, they said.</p>

<p>Further, in July 2024, on the sidelines of the 46th World Heritage Committee, in New Delhi, India and the United States signed the first ever ‘Cultural Property Agreement’ to prevent and curb the illicit trafficking of antiquities from India to the USA.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/met-museum-to-return-antiquities-to-india-as-part-of-1414-objects-to-be-sent-by-us-652582"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Met Museum to return antiquities to India as part of 1,414 objects to be sent by US</strong></a></p>

<p>The spectacular achievement over the last ten years demonstrates the government’s resolve to reclaim India’s stolen treasures and preserve its cultural heritage for future generations, they said.</p>

<p>Modi’s personal bond with global leaders has played a pivotal role in securing these returns.</p>

<p>His proactive approach has led to the recovery of significant artefacts, including revered sculptures and idols, reaffirming India’s cultural identity, they added.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


The US has handed over to India 297 antiquities during the ongoing visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, officials said on Sunday (Sep 22). Official sources said the illicit trafficking of cultural property is a longstanding issue that has affected many cultures and countries throughout history, and India has been particularly hit.

The US has handed over to India 297 antiquities during the ongoing visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, officials said on Sunday (Sep 22). Official sources said the illicit trafficking of cultural property is a longstanding issue that has affected many cultures and countries throughout history, and India has been particularly hit. “Deepening cultural connect and strengthening the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural properties. I am extremely grateful to President Biden and the US Government for ensuring the return of 297 invaluable antiquities to India," PM Modi said on X (formerly Twitter). Deepening cultural connect and strengthening the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural properties. I am extremely grateful to President Biden and the US Government for ensuring the return of 297 invaluable antiquities to India. @POTUS @JoeBiden pic.twitter.com/0jziIYZ1GO — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 22, 2024 × Some of the notable antiquities handed over are: Apsara in sandstone from Central India belonging to 10-11th century C Jain Tirthankar in bronze from Central India belonging to 15-16th century CE Terracotta vase from Eastern India belonging to 3-4th century CE Stone Sculpture from South India belonging to 1st century BCE-1st century CE Lord Ganesha in Bronze from South India belonging to 17-18th century CE Standing Lord Buddha in sandstone from North India belonging 15-16th century CE Lord Krishna in bronze from South India belonging to 17-18th century CE Lord Karthikeya in granite from South India belonging to 13-14th century CE Watch | Gravitas Plus: How India is pushing for the return of stolen antiquities × With this, the total number of ancient items recovered by India since 2014 has gone to 640, officials said, adding the number returned from the USA alone will be 578. Apart from the current visit, the earlier visits of Modi to the USA have also been particularly fruitful in return of antiquities to India. Officials said during his visit to the US in 2021, 157 antiquities were handed over by the US government, including the exquisite bronze Nataraja statue from the 12th century CE. Also, a few days after his US visit in 2023, 105 antiquities were returned to India. India’s successful recoveries extend beyond the USA, with 16 artefacts being returned from the UK, 40 from Australia among others, they noted. In stark contrast only one artefact was returned to India between 2004 and 2013, they said. Further, in July 2024, on the sidelines of the 46th World Heritage Committee, in New Delhi, India and the United States signed the first ever ‘Cultural Property Agreement’ to prevent and curb the illicit trafficking of antiquities from India to the USA. Also read | Met Museum to return antiquities to India as part of 1,414 objects to be sent by US The spectacular achievement over the last ten years demonstrates the government’s resolve to reclaim India’s stolen treasures and preserve its cultural heritage for future generations, they said. Modi’s personal bond with global leaders has played a pivotal role in securing these returns. His proactive approach has led to the recovery of significant artefacts, including revered sculptures and idols, reaffirming India’s cultural identity, they added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Lord Ganesha, Krishna artefacts among 297 antiquities handed over to India by US during PM Modi's trip

<p>The United States has extended its support to India's call for a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), after which the Quad leaders (US, India, Japan and Australia) also emphasised the need for comprehensive reform of the UN body in their joint statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The support was extended after bilateral talks&nbsp;were held between US President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the Quad summit in Wilmington, Delaware, on Saturday (Sep 21).</p>

<p>"President&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;shared with Prime Minister Modi that the United States supports initiatives to reform global institutions to reflect India's important voice, including permanent membership for India in a reformed&nbsp;UN Security Council," said the White House, in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-leaders-summit-biden-caught-on-hot-mic-saying-china-testing-us-760806">Quad Leaders' Summit: Biden caught on hot mic saying 'China testing us'</a></p>

<p>For the past several years, India has been eyeing a permanent seat in the UNSC while underlining the country's global influence, its contributions to peacekeeping missions and its path to being the largest democracy in the world.</p>

<h2><strong>Quad issues joint statement underlying need for reform in UNSC</strong></h2>

<p>Quad members - India, Australia, Japan, and the United States - signed the 'Wilmington Declaration,' in which they underscored the need to reform&nbsp;the UN Security Council (UNSC) to make it more representative, inclusive, transparent, efficient, effective, democratic, and accountable.</p>

<p>The members underlined the need to expand the UNSC and ensure more representation from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean.</p>

<p>"Together, with our global and regional partners, we continue to support international institutions and initiatives that underpin global peace, prosperity and sustainable development. We reiterate our unwavering support for the UN Charter and the three pillars of the UN system," read the joint declaration.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Quad Summit: Modi attends Quad Leaders' Summit in Delaware</strong></p>

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<p>"We will reform the UN Security Council, recognizing the urgent need to make it more representative, inclusive, transparent, efficient, effective, democratic and accountable through expansion in permanent and non-permanent categories of membership of the UN Security Council. This expansion of permanent seats should include representation for Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean in a reformed Security Council," it stated.</p>

<p>Biden had extended support to India's call for permanent membership in the UN Security Council in September last year during their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Delhi.</p>

<p>Biden and Modi had issued a joint statement in which the former welcomed India's candidature of a non-permanent seat in UNSC in 2028-29.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States has extended its support to India's call for a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), after which the Quad leaders (US, India, Japan and Australia) also emphasised the need for comprehensive reform of the UN body in their joint statement.

The United States has extended its support to India's call for a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), after which the Quad leaders (US, India, Japan and Australia) also emphasised the need for comprehensive reform of the UN body in their joint statement. The support was extended after bilateral talks were held between US President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the Quad summit in Wilmington, Delaware, on Saturday (Sep 21). "President Biden shared with Prime Minister Modi that the United States supports initiatives to reform global institutions to reflect India's important voice, including permanent membership for India in a reformed UN Security Council," said the White House, in a statement. Also Read: Quad Leaders' Summit: Biden caught on hot mic saying 'China testing us' For the past several years, India has been eyeing a permanent seat in the UNSC while underlining the country's global influence, its contributions to peacekeeping missions and its path to being the largest democracy in the world. Quad issues joint statement underlying need for reform in UNSC Quad members - India, Australia, Japan, and the United States - signed the 'Wilmington Declaration,' in which they underscored the need to reform the UN Security Council (UNSC) to make it more representative, inclusive, transparent, efficient, effective, democratic, and accountable. The members underlined the need to expand the UNSC and ensure more representation from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. "Together, with our global and regional partners, we continue to support international institutions and initiatives that underpin global peace, prosperity and sustainable development. We reiterate our unwavering support for the UN Charter and the three pillars of the UN system," read the joint declaration. Watch: Quad Summit: Modi attends Quad Leaders' Summit in Delaware "We will reform the UN Security Council, recognizing the urgent need to make it more representative, inclusive, transparent, efficient, effective, democratic and accountable through expansion in permanent and non-permanent categories of membership of the UN Security Council. This expansion of permanent seats should include representation for Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean in a reformed Security Council," it stated. Biden had extended support to India's call for permanent membership in the UN Security Council in September last year during their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Delhi. Biden and Modi had issued a joint statement in which the former welcomed India's candidature of a non-permanent seat in UNSC in 2028-29. (With inputs from agencies)

US backs India for permanent UNSC seat, Quad leaders echo similar sentiment

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived to an enthusiastic welcome in Philadelphia as he kicked off his three-day visit to the United States, on Saturday.</p>

<p>A large number of people from the Indian community in the US had gathered at the Philadelphia International Airport to give a warm welcome to PM Modi.</p>

<p>The Prime Minister interacted with the Indian community on his arrival as people jostled to get a selfie with him.</p>

<p>"Landed in Philadelphia. Today's programme will be focused on the Quad Summit and the bilateral meeting with US President Joe Biden. I am sure the discussions throughout the day will contribute to making our planet better and addressing key global challenges," PM Modi posted on X after his arrival.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-arrives-in-us-to-attend-quad-summit-to-hold-meeting-with-president-biden-760765"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;PM Modi arrives in US to attend Quad Summit, to hold meeting with President Biden</strong></a></p>

<p>Hundreds had also gathered at the hotel where PM Modi will be putting up during his stay in Delaware.</p>

<p>Irrespective of the long flight, PM Modi and the travelling Indian delegation will have no time to get over the jetlag considering the busy schedule lined up for the day, immediately after their arrival.</p>

<p>The Prime Minister will be holding bilateral discussions with President Biden and other leaders of the Quad grouping, including Australian PM Anthony Albanese and Prime Minister Kishida Fumio of Japan.</p>

<p>Some key Indo-Pacific Economic Framework-related agreements and an India-US Drug Framework-related MoU are expected to be signed following PM Modi's meeting with Biden. A bilateral fact sheet will also be released after the bilateral discussions between the two leaders.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Indian PM's US Visit: PM Modi To Attend Sixth-QUAD Leaders' Summit</strong></p>

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<p>The all-important sixth Quad Leaders' Summit - fourth in-person - is scheduled at around 4 PM EST (around 1.30 AM, India time on Sunday) at Archmere Academy, where Biden attended High school.</p>

<p>After the plenary session, the Quad leaders will gather together for the unveiling of the Cancer Moonshot event, a signature initiative that aims at implementing innovative strategies to prevent, detect, treat, and alleviate the impact of cancer on patients and their families.</p>

<p>It is for the first time that Biden will also be hosting foreign leaders in Wilmington as President - including an "intimate leaders' dinner" at his private home following the Moonshot event - which the White House believes is "a reflection of his deep personal relationships with each of the Quad Leaders", and the importance of the Quad to all countries.</p>

<p>"I look forward to joining my colleagues President Biden, Prime Minister Albanese, and Prime Minister Kishida for the Quad Summit. The forum has emerged as a key group of like-minded countries to work for peace, progress and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. My meeting with President Biden will allow us to review and identify new pathways to further deepen the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership for the benefit of our people and the global good," said PM Modi before his departure, on Saturday.</p>

<p>Quad - a diplomatic partnership between India, the United States, Australia, and Japan - remains committed to supporting an open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific that is inclusive and resilient.</p>

<p>The Quad countries account for a 1.9 billion combined population, 44 per cent of two-way merchandise trade across the Indo-Pacific region, US $34.8 trillion combined GDP, and hold 30 per cent of Global Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) stock.</p>

<p>Having swapped its turn with the US due to scheduling issues, India will now be hosting the 2025 Quad Summit as the relationship between the partner nations continues to expand both strategically and economically.</p>

<p>From Wilmington, Prime Minister Modi will travel to New York where he will address a community rally at the Nassau Coliseum in Long Island on Sunday which is expected to be attended by more than 16,000 people.</p>

<p>"The Indian community has distinguished itself in the USA, making a positive impact across diverse sectors. It's always a delight to interact with them. At around 9:30 PM India time on Sunday, 22nd September, I will address the Modi and US programme in New York City. Let's celebrate the bonds that connect our nations!" said PM Modi after his arrival in the United States.</p>

<p>The prime minister will also be attending a Business Roundtable with CEOs of leading US companies in the cutting-edge areas of Artificial Intelligence, semiconductors, quantum computing, and biotechnology besides holding bilateral meetings with several other world leaders during his stay in New York.</p>

<p>On Monday (Sep 23), PM Modi will address the Summit of the Future in the UN General Assembly which will bring together world leaders with the objective of enhancing multilateral cooperation and tackling the most pressing global challenges.</p>

<p>An outcome document Pact for the Future, along with annexes on the global digital compact and a declaration for future generations, are expected to be adopted by the world leaders during the event.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived to an enthusiastic welcome in Philadelphia as he kicked off his three-day visit to the United States, on Saturday. A large number of people from the Indian community in the US had gathered at the Philadelphia International Airport to give a warm welcome to PM Modi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived to an enthusiastic welcome in Philadelphia as he kicked off his three-day visit to the United States, on Saturday. A large number of people from the Indian community in the US had gathered at the Philadelphia International Airport to give a warm welcome to PM Modi. The Prime Minister interacted with the Indian community on his arrival as people jostled to get a selfie with him. "Landed in Philadelphia. Today's programme will be focused on the Quad Summit and the bilateral meeting with US President Joe Biden. I am sure the discussions throughout the day will contribute to making our planet better and addressing key global challenges," PM Modi posted on X after his arrival. Also read: PM Modi arrives in US to attend Quad Summit, to hold meeting with President Biden Hundreds had also gathered at the hotel where PM Modi will be putting up during his stay in Delaware. Irrespective of the long flight, PM Modi and the travelling Indian delegation will have no time to get over the jetlag considering the busy schedule lined up for the day, immediately after their arrival. The Prime Minister will be holding bilateral discussions with President Biden and other leaders of the Quad grouping, including Australian PM Anthony Albanese and Prime Minister Kishida Fumio of Japan. Some key Indo-Pacific Economic Framework-related agreements and an India-US Drug Framework-related MoU are expected to be signed following PM Modi's meeting with Biden. A bilateral fact sheet will also be released after the bilateral discussions between the two leaders. Watch | Indian PM's US Visit: PM Modi To Attend Sixth-QUAD Leaders' Summit × The all-important sixth Quad Leaders' Summit - fourth in-person - is scheduled at around 4 PM EST (around 1.30 AM, India time on Sunday) at Archmere Academy, where Biden attended High school. After the plenary session, the Quad leaders will gather together for the unveiling of the Cancer Moonshot event, a signature initiative that aims at implementing innovative strategies to prevent, detect, treat, and alleviate the impact of cancer on patients and their families. It is for the first time that Biden will also be hosting foreign leaders in Wilmington as President - including an "intimate leaders' dinner" at his private home following the Moonshot event - which the White House believes is "a reflection of his deep personal relationships with each of the Quad Leaders", and the importance of the Quad to all countries. "I look forward to joining my colleagues President Biden, Prime Minister Albanese, and Prime Minister Kishida for the Quad Summit. The forum has emerged as a key group of like-minded countries to work for peace, progress and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. My meeting with President Biden will allow us to review and identify new pathways to further deepen the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership for the benefit of our people and the global good," said PM Modi before his departure, on Saturday. Quad - a diplomatic partnership between India, the United States, Australia, and Japan - remains committed to supporting an open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific that is inclusive and resilient. The Quad countries account for a 1.9 billion combined population, 44 per cent of two-way merchandise trade across the Indo-Pacific region, US $34.8 trillion combined GDP, and hold 30 per cent of Global Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) stock. Having swapped its turn with the US due to scheduling issues, India will now be hosting the 2025 Quad Summit as the relationship between the partner nations continues to expand both strategically and economically. From Wilmington, Prime Minister Modi will travel to New York where he will address a community rally at the Nassau Coliseum in Long Island on Sunday which is expected to be attended by more than 16,000 people. "The Indian community has distinguished itself in the USA, making a positive impact across diverse sectors. It's always a delight to interact with them. At around 9:30 PM India time on Sunday, 22nd September, I will address the Modi and US programme in New York City. Let's celebrate the bonds that connect our nations!" said PM Modi after his arrival in the United States. The prime minister will also be attending a Business Roundtable with CEOs of leading US companies in the cutting-edge areas of Artificial Intelligence, semiconductors, quantum computing, and biotechnology besides holding bilateral meetings with several other world leaders during his stay in New York. On Monday (Sep 23), PM Modi will address the Summit of the Future in the UN General Assembly which will bring together world leaders with the objective of enhancing multilateral cooperation and tackling the most pressing global challenges. An outcome document Pact for the Future, along with annexes on the global digital compact and a declaration for future generations, are expected to be adopted by the world leaders during the event. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Indian diaspora greets PM Modi as he arrives in US

<p>Radical Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, an Indian fugitive, along with Sheikh Faruk Naik, will begin their Pakistan tour in October, at the invitation of the Pakistan government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zakir Naik, who is reportedly in Malaysia currently, will be visiting&nbsp;Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad to speak to people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Naik has been facing charges in India for money laundering,&nbsp;terrorism, and creating religious tension through his speeches and lectures in the country, under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a post on X, Naik shared that he will be addressing the public in Karachi on October 5 and 6, followed by a visit to Lahore on October 12 and 13, and lastly in Islamabad on October 19 and 20.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On the invitation of the Government of Pakistan<br />
Dr Zakir Naik &amp; Shaikh Fariq Naik’s Pakistan Tour 2024<br />
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Public Talks:<br />
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Karachi - 5th &amp; 6th Oct<br />
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Lahore - 12th &amp; 13th Oct<br />
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Islamabad - 19th &amp; 20th Oct<br />
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Live on Peace TV <a href="https://t.co/NHCgkuJDZi">pic.twitter.com/NHCgkuJDZi</a></p>
— Dr Zakir Naik (@drzakiranaik) <a href="https://twitter.com/drzakiranaik/status/1837162860645933186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>In 2016, Naik fled India and reportedly moved to Malaysia, and reportedly got permanent residency there. In 2019, he was also banned from delivering public speeches in Malaysia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/radical-preacher-zakir-naik-to-return-to-malaysia-no-word-on-indias-extradition-request-yet-576580"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Radical preacher Zakir Naik to return to Malaysia, no word on India’s extradition request yet</strong></a></p>

<p>His Islamic Research Foundation was declared unlawful by the Indian government in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Malaysian PM to visit Pakistan&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to visit Pakistan on October 3. He will be accompanied by a high-level delegation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It has been five years since any Malaysian PM visited&nbsp;Pakistan. The former Malaysian PM visited the country in 2019, according to reports.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Naik's&nbsp;Peace TV Network&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Zakir Naik's Peace TV will start broadcasting in Bangladesh, pending approval from the interim government, as announced by the Indian fugitive last month.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Indian fugitive Zakir Naik to not be extradited to India?</strong></p>

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<p>His Peace TV Network was banned in Bangladesh, Canada, Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom. The channel was blocked in Bangladesh following the July 2016 attack on the Holy Artisan Bakery in Dhaka.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The matter further led to a probe in India and the subsequent suspension of Peace TV's in both Dhaka and New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Radical Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, an Indian fugitive, along with Sheikh Faruk Naik, will begin their Pakistan tour in October, at the invitation of the Pakistan government.

Radical Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, an Indian fugitive, along with Sheikh Faruk Naik, will begin their Pakistan tour in October, at the invitation of the Pakistan government. Zakir Naik, who is reportedly in Malaysia currently, will be visiting Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad to speak to people. Naik has been facing charges in India for money laundering, terrorism, and creating religious tension through his speeches and lectures in the country, under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). In a post on X, Naik shared that he will be addressing the public in Karachi on October 5 and 6, followed by a visit to Lahore on October 12 and 13, and lastly in Islamabad on October 19 and 20. On the invitation of the Government of Pakistan Dr Zakir Naik & Shaikh Fariq Naik’s Pakistan Tour 2024 Public Talks: Karachi - 5th & 6th Oct Lahore - 12th & 13th Oct Islamabad - 19th & 20th Oct Live on Peace TV pic.twitter.com/NHCgkuJDZi — Dr Zakir Naik (@drzakiranaik) September 20, 2024 × In 2016, Naik fled India and reportedly moved to Malaysia, and reportedly got permanent residency there. In 2019, he was also banned from delivering public speeches in Malaysia. Also read: Radical preacher Zakir Naik to return to Malaysia, no word on India’s extradition request yet His Islamic Research Foundation was declared unlawful by the Indian government in 2022. Malaysian PM to visit Pakistan Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to visit Pakistan on October 3. He will be accompanied by a high-level delegation. It has been five years since any Malaysian PM visited Pakistan. The former Malaysian PM visited the country in 2019, according to reports. Naik's Peace TV Network Zakir Naik's Peace TV will start broadcasting in Bangladesh, pending approval from the interim government, as announced by the Indian fugitive last month. Watch | Gravitas: Indian fugitive Zakir Naik to not be extradited to India? × His Peace TV Network was banned in Bangladesh, Canada, Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom. The channel was blocked in Bangladesh following the July 2016 attack on the Holy Artisan Bakery in Dhaka. The matter further led to a probe in India and the subsequent suspension of Peace TV's in both Dhaka and New Delhi. (With inputs from agencies)

Radical preacher Zakir Naik to begin Pakistan tour next month

<p>Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi was sworn in as Delhi's youngest chief minister on Saturday (Sep 21). The oath-taking ceremony began at 4:30 pm IST at Raj Niwas. The ceremony was initially scheduled for September 26-27 but was preponed&nbsp;at&nbsp;the request of the Delhi LG.</p>

<p>Atishi, the only woman in the Delhi government cabinet, was elected for the CM position by AAP leaders on September 17.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The move came after ex-CM Arvind Kejriwal stepped down, just days after the country's Supreme Court granted him bail in a graft case related to the liquor policy.</p>

<p>Ahead of taking the oath, Atishi, along with the proposed ministers, went to Kejriwal's house to meet him.</p>

<p>After the meeting, Atishi and other ministers reached 'Raj Nivas'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new Council of Ministers announced by the party comprises Sultanpur Majra MLA Mukesh Ahlawat, a new entrant, besides ministers Gopal Rai, Kailash Gahlot, Saurabh Bharadwaj and Imran Hussain. All five ministers also took oath alongside Atishi at Raj Nivas.</p>

<h2><strong>Atishi's tenure will be brief</strong></h2>

<p>The tenure of the Atishi government will be brief as Delhi assembly polls are scheduled to be held in February next year.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiIiqG0-dOIAxVckq8BHZD3AA8QxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-votes-in-presidential-election-why-do-these-polls-matter-for-india-760631" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-votes-in-presidential-election-why-do-these-polls-matter-for-india-760631&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiIiqG0-dOIAxVckq8BHZD3AA8QxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE">Sri Lanka votes in presidential election: Why do these polls matter for India?</a></strong></p>

<p>During her brief stint in the CM office, Atishi will look forward&nbsp;to fast-tracking and giving nod to various pending policies and welfare schemes such as the Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana, Electric Vehicle Policy 2.0 and doorstep delivery of services among others.</p>

<h2><strong>More details about Atishi</strong></h2>

<p>Atishi was born on June 8, 1981, to distinguished Delhi University professors Vijay Kumar Singh and Tripta Wahi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiIiqG0-dOIAxVckq8BHZD3AA8QxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-foreign-diplomats-to-witness-elections-in-jammu-and-kashmir-760630" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-foreign-diplomats-to-witness-elections-in-jammu-and-kashmir-760630&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiIiqG0-dOIAxVckq8BHZD3AA8QxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">Foreign diplomats to witness elections in Jammu and Kashmir</a></strong></p>

<p>She commenced her education at Springdale School in New Delhi, before moving on to St Stephen’s College, where she excelled in history and secured the top rank in Delhi University. Her academic pursuits continued at Oxford University, where she earned her Master’s degree as a recipient of the prestigious Chevening scholarship.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi was sworn in as Delhi's youngest chief minister on Saturday (Sep 21). The oath-taking ceremony began at 4:30 pm IST at Raj Niwas.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi was sworn in as Delhi's youngest chief minister on Saturday (Sep 21). The oath-taking ceremony began at 4:30 pm IST at Raj Niwas. The ceremony was initially scheduled for September 26-27 but was preponed at the request of the Delhi LG. Atishi, the only woman in the Delhi government cabinet, was elected for the CM position by AAP leaders on September 17. The move came after ex-CM Arvind Kejriwal stepped down, just days after the country's Supreme Court granted him bail in a graft case related to the liquor policy. Ahead of taking the oath, Atishi, along with the proposed ministers, went to Kejriwal's house to meet him. After the meeting, Atishi and other ministers reached 'Raj Nivas'. The new Council of Ministers announced by the party comprises Sultanpur Majra MLA Mukesh Ahlawat, a new entrant, besides ministers Gopal Rai, Kailash Gahlot, Saurabh Bharadwaj and Imran Hussain. All five ministers also took oath alongside Atishi at Raj Nivas. Atishi's tenure will be brief The tenure of the Atishi government will be brief as Delhi assembly polls are scheduled to be held in February next year. Also read: Sri Lanka votes in presidential election: Why do these polls matter for India? During her brief stint in the CM office, Atishi will look forward to fast-tracking and giving nod to various pending policies and welfare schemes such as the Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana, Electric Vehicle Policy 2.0 and doorstep delivery of services among others. More details about Atishi Atishi was born on June 8, 1981, to distinguished Delhi University professors Vijay Kumar Singh and Tripta Wahi. Also read: Foreign diplomats to witness elections in Jammu and Kashmir She commenced her education at Springdale School in New Delhi, before moving on to St Stephen’s College, where she excelled in history and secured the top rank in Delhi University. Her academic pursuits continued at Oxford University, where she earned her Master’s degree as a recipient of the prestigious Chevening scholarship. (With inputs from agencies)

Atishi takes oath as Delhi CM, becomes youngest leader to hold top office

<p><strong>PM Modi's US trip itinerary:</strong> Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be embarking on a three-day trip to the US from Saturday (Sep 21)&nbsp;to Monday (Sep 23)&nbsp;where he will attend the fourth annual Quad Leaders' Summit, hosted by the United States President Joe Biden in his home residence of Wilmington, Delaware.</p>

<p>PM Modi will hold a bilateral meeting with Biden as well as other&nbsp;leaders of the powerful alliance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There will be an opportunity to have a substantive engagement between the prime minister and President Biden, where they will have the opportunity to review the comprehensive global strategic partnership between India and the United States,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a media briefing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After a day of meetings, PM Modi will attend an evening reception before jetting off to New York from&nbsp;Philadelphia International Airport&nbsp;at night. Once in the Big Apple, PM Modi will rest and recover&nbsp;before addressing a gathering of the Indian diaspora on Sunday (Sep 22) at the&nbsp;Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale, Nassau County on Long Island.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later in the evening, he will hold a roundtable with the CEOs of the top companies, as has been the trend in his previous US visits. Building better entrepreneur connections has been one of the cornerstones of PM Modi's leadership in the last decade.</p>

<p>“PM Modi will also be attending a Business Roundtable with CEOs of leading US companies in the cutting-edge areas of Artificial Intelligence, semiconductors, quantum computing, and biotechnology,” the MEA&nbsp;said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-to-meet-pm-modi-during-us-visit-calls-him-a-fantastic-man-759800"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Donald Trump to Meet PM Modi During US Visit, Calls Him 'A Fantastic Man'</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>UNGA address&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A day later, he will address the&nbsp;‘Summit of the Future’ at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. The theme of the Summit is 'Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow'. A few more bilateral meetings have also been fixed for PM Modi on the day, the details of which are yet to be provided.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although it has not been confirmed by the MEA, it is believed that former US President Donald Trump will be meeting the Indian PM.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-vows-to-restore-jks-statehood-promises-monetary-assistance-to-farmers-women-760118"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;PM Modi vows to restore J&amp;K's statehood, promises monetary assistance to farmers, women</strong></a></p>

<p>The Republican leader earlier this week made the announcement while&nbsp;campaigning in Michigan. PM Modi is a "fantastic man", said Trump, at the same time calling India a "very big abuser" of trade ties.</p>

<p>"So when India, which is a very big abuser. He (Modi) happens to be coming to meet me next week, and Modi, he's fantastic. I mean, fantastic man. A lot of these leaders are fantastic."</p>

<p>After concluding the meetings, PM Modi will depart for New Delhi from the JFK International Airport on Monday evening, reaching the national capital on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


PM Modi's US trip itinerary: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be embarking on a three-day trip to the US from Saturday (Sep 21) to Monday (Sep 23) where he will attend the fourth annual Quad Leaders' Summit, hosted by the United States President Joe Biden in his home residence of Wilmington, Delaware.

PM Modi's US trip itinerary: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be embarking on a three-day trip to the US from Saturday (Sep 21) to Monday (Sep 23) where he will attend the fourth annual Quad Leaders' Summit, hosted by the United States President Joe Biden in his home residence of Wilmington, Delaware. PM Modi will hold a bilateral meeting with Biden as well as other leaders of the powerful alliance. "There will be an opportunity to have a substantive engagement between the prime minister and President Biden, where they will have the opportunity to review the comprehensive global strategic partnership between India and the United States,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a media briefing. After a day of meetings, PM Modi will attend an evening reception before jetting off to New York from Philadelphia International Airport at night. Once in the Big Apple, PM Modi will rest and recover before addressing a gathering of the Indian diaspora on Sunday (Sep 22) at the Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale, Nassau County on Long Island. Later in the evening, he will hold a roundtable with the CEOs of the top companies, as has been the trend in his previous US visits. Building better entrepreneur connections has been one of the cornerstones of PM Modi's leadership in the last decade. “PM Modi will also be attending a Business Roundtable with CEOs of leading US companies in the cutting-edge areas of Artificial Intelligence, semiconductors, quantum computing, and biotechnology,” the MEA said. Watch | Donald Trump to Meet PM Modi During US Visit, Calls Him 'A Fantastic Man' × UNGA address A day later, he will address the ‘Summit of the Future’ at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. The theme of the Summit is 'Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow'. A few more bilateral meetings have also been fixed for PM Modi on the day, the details of which are yet to be provided. Although it has not been confirmed by the MEA, it is believed that former US President Donald Trump will be meeting the Indian PM. Also read | PM Modi vows to restore J&K's statehood, promises monetary assistance to farmers, women The Republican leader earlier this week made the announcement while campaigning in Michigan. PM Modi is a "fantastic man", said Trump, at the same time calling India a "very big abuser" of trade ties. "So when India, which is a very big abuser. He (Modi) happens to be coming to meet me next week, and Modi, he's fantastic. I mean, fantastic man. A lot of these leaders are fantastic." After concluding the meetings, PM Modi will depart for New Delhi from the JFK International Airport on Monday evening, reaching the national capital on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi to embark on 3-day US trip: From Quad to UN Summit, here's what the schedule looks like

<p>India on Wednesday (Sep 18)&nbsp;abstained from the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolution that demanded Israel end "its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory" within 12 months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Palestinian-drafted resolution received 124 votes in favour, while 43 countries abstained, including India. Meanwhile, Israel, the United States and 12 others voted no.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, the nations abstaining included Australia, Canada, Germany, Italy, Nepal, Ukraine and the United Kingdom.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-presence-in-palestinian-territories-illegal-rules-top-un-court-742450"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Israel’s presence in Palestinian territories illegal, rules top UN court</strong></a></p>

<p>The resolution was titled 'Advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice on the legal consequences arising from Israel’s policies and practices in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and from the illegality of Israel's continued presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory’.</p>

<p>The resolution demanded, "Israel brings to an end without delay its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, which constitutes a wrongful act of a continuing character entailing its international responsibility, and do so no later than 12 months from the adoption of the present resolution.”</p>

<p>Moreover, the resolution welcomes a July advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice, which stated Israel's occupation of Palestinian authorities and settlements is illegal and should be withdrawn.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel allegedly hacks pagers, causing massive explosions</strong></p>

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<p>The UNGA&nbsp;resolution further called on states to "take steps towards ceasing the importation of any products originating in the Israeli settlements, as well as the provision or transfer of arms, munitions and related equipment to Israel... where there are reasonable grounds to suspect that they may be used in the Occupied Palestinian Territory."</p>

<p>Earlier on Tuesday, Israel's UN Ambassador Danny Danon criticised the UNGA&nbsp;for failing to condemn the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, further triggering Israel to retaliate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The war in Gaza began on October 7, 2023, after Hamas stormed into Israeli communities, reportedly&nbsp;killing around 1200 people and taking nearly 250 hostages.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India on Wednesday (Sep 18) abstained from the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolution that demanded Israel end "its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory" within 12 months.

India on Wednesday (Sep 18) abstained from the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolution that demanded Israel end "its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory" within 12 months. The Palestinian-drafted resolution received 124 votes in favour, while 43 countries abstained, including India. Meanwhile, Israel, the United States and 12 others voted no. Moreover, the nations abstaining included Australia, Canada, Germany, Italy, Nepal, Ukraine and the United Kingdom. Also read: Israel’s presence in Palestinian territories illegal, rules top UN court The resolution was titled 'Advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice on the legal consequences arising from Israel’s policies and practices in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and from the illegality of Israel's continued presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory’. The resolution demanded, "Israel brings to an end without delay its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, which constitutes a wrongful act of a continuing character entailing its international responsibility, and do so no later than 12 months from the adoption of the present resolution.” Moreover, the resolution welcomes a July advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice, which stated Israel's occupation of Palestinian authorities and settlements is illegal and should be withdrawn. Watch | Israel allegedly hacks pagers, causing massive explosions × The UNGA resolution further called on states to "take steps towards ceasing the importation of any products originating in the Israeli settlements, as well as the provision or transfer of arms, munitions and related equipment to Israel... where there are reasonable grounds to suspect that they may be used in the Occupied Palestinian Territory." Earlier on Tuesday, Israel's UN Ambassador Danny Danon criticised the UNGA for failing to condemn the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, further triggering Israel to retaliate. The war in Gaza began on October 7, 2023, after Hamas stormed into Israeli communities, reportedly killing around 1200 people and taking nearly 250 hostages. (With inputs from agencies)

India abstains on UNGA resolution demanding Israel leave Palestinian territory in a year

<p>Pakistan's defence minister Khawaja Asif has said that Prime&nbsp; Minister Shehbaz Sharif's government was on the same page&nbsp;with the poll alliance of&nbsp;Congress and National Conference in the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir on the issue of restoration of Article 370.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Asif claimed there was a high chance that the coalition comes to power as the elections kicked off in the UT on Wednesday (Sep 18).&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They (the alliance) have made it an election issue. Pakistan and the National Conference-Congress alliance are on the same page in Jammu and Kashmir to restore Article 370 and 35A," Asif said in an interview with <em>Geo News.&nbsp;</em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a>: Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Hamid Mir’s Capital Talk on Geo News says, “Pakistan and National Conference-Congress alliance are on the same page in Jammu &amp; Kashmir to restore Article 370 and 35A”. Big statement amid assembly elections in Jammu &amp; Kashmir. <a href="https://t.co/vxEVFZI0BK">pic.twitter.com/vxEVFZI0BK</a></p>
— Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdityaRajKaul/status/1836607763721654519?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Led by the father-son duo of Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, NC has vowed to restore Article 370 while Congress has remained mum on the issue - not even mentioning it in its manifesto. However, since the grand old party has forged a coalition with NC, many believe that the party had given its tacit support to the revocation of Article 370 if elected to power.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/explained-kashmir-question-article-370-story-from-kashmir-accession-to-parliaments-integration-668767"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Explained: Kashmir question &amp; Article 370 | Story from Kashmir accession to Parliament's integration</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Amit Shah slams Congress-NC, Pak defence minister&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Asif's comments instantly drew the ire of Indian Union Home Minister Amit Shah who trained guns on the Congress-NC alliance and called them out for carrying out Pakistan's bidding.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Pakistan’s defence minister’s statement about Congress and JKNC’s support on Article 370 and 35A has once again exposed Congress. This statement has once again made it clear that Congress and Pakistan have the same intentions and agenda," said Shah on X (formerly Twitter).&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"For the last few years, Rahul Gandhi has been standing with every anti-India force, hurting the sentiments of the countrymen," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">पाकिस्तान के रक्षा मंत्री का आर्टिकल 370 और 35A पर कांग्रेस और JKNC के समर्थन की बात ने एक बार फिर कांग्रेस को एक्सपोज कर दिया है। इस बयान ने पुनः यह स्पष्ट कर दिया है कि कांग्रेस और पाकिस्तान के इरादे भी एक हैं और एजेंडा भी। पिछले कुछ वर्षों से राहुल गाँधी देशवासियों की भावनाओं…</p>
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1836674300637766143?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-rally-in-j-k-indian-pm-says-three-families-gave-only-fear-anarchy-to-valley-760066"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Modi rally in J-K: Indian PM says three families gave only fear, anarchy to Valley</strong></a></p>

<p>While BJP has been adamant on maintaining the status quo, the revocation of Article and bifurcation of the erstwhile state into two Union Territories has remained a prominent poll issue for NC.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from NC,&nbsp;Mehbooba Mufti's PDP has also promised to roll back the clock on the issue if it is voted to power.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan's defence minister Khawaja Asif has said that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's government was on the same page with the poll alliance of Congress and National Conference in the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir on the issue of restoration of Article 370.

Pakistan's defence minister Khawaja Asif has said that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's government was on the same page with the poll alliance of Congress and National Conference in the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir on the issue of restoration of Article 370. Asif claimed there was a high chance that the coalition comes to power as the elections kicked off in the UT on Wednesday (Sep 18). "They (the alliance) have made it an election issue. Pakistan and the National Conference-Congress alliance are on the same page in Jammu and Kashmir to restore Article 370 and 35A," Asif said in an interview with Geo News. #BREAKING: Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Hamid Mir’s Capital Talk on Geo News says, “Pakistan and National Conference-Congress alliance are on the same page in Jammu & Kashmir to restore Article 370 and 35A”. Big statement amid assembly elections in Jammu & Kashmir. pic.twitter.com/vxEVFZI0BK — Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) September 19, 2024 × Led by the father-son duo of Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, NC has vowed to restore Article 370 while Congress has remained mum on the issue - not even mentioning it in its manifesto. However, since the grand old party has forged a coalition with NC, many believe that the party had given its tacit support to the revocation of Article 370 if elected to power. Watch | Explained: Kashmir question & Article 370 | Story from Kashmir accession to Parliament's integration × Amit Shah slams Congress-NC, Pak defence minister Asif's comments instantly drew the ire of Indian Union Home Minister Amit Shah who trained guns on the Congress-NC alliance and called them out for carrying out Pakistan's bidding. “Pakistan’s defence minister’s statement about Congress and JKNC’s support on Article 370 and 35A has once again exposed Congress. This statement has once again made it clear that Congress and Pakistan have the same intentions and agenda," said Shah on X (formerly Twitter). "For the last few years, Rahul Gandhi has been standing with every anti-India force, hurting the sentiments of the countrymen," he added. पाकिस्तान के रक्षा मंत्री का आर्टिकल 370 और 35A पर कांग्रेस और JKNC के समर्थन की बात ने एक बार फिर कांग्रेस को एक्सपोज कर दिया है। इस बयान ने पुनः यह स्पष्ट कर दिया है कि कांग्रेस और पाकिस्तान के इरादे भी एक हैं और एजेंडा भी। पिछले कुछ वर्षों से राहुल गाँधी देशवासियों की भावनाओं… — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) September 19, 2024 × Also read | Modi rally in J-K: Indian PM says three families gave only fear, anarchy to Valley While BJP has been adamant on maintaining the status quo, the revocation of Article and bifurcation of the erstwhile state into two Union Territories has remained a prominent poll issue for NC. Apart from NC, Mehbooba Mufti's PDP has also promised to roll back the clock on the issue if it is voted to power. (With inputs from agencies)

J&K polls: Pakistan and Congress-NC have same agenda on Article 370, says Indian Home Minister Amit Shah

<p>India has once again called on Pakistan to amend or "review and modify" the Indus Water Treaty, with a diplomatic note sent to Islamabad on August 30, 2024. New Delhi has made a firm case, citing Article XII(3) of the treaty, which allows for amendments to emphasise the need for changes.</p>

<p>Under the Article, the treaty can be modified from time to time for which both governments need to sit for negotiations.</p>

<p>"Provisions of this treaty may from time to time be modified by a duly ratified treaty concluded for that purpose between the two Governments," it says.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
India had last year also reached out to Pakistan seeking to "review and modify" the treaty, but no concrete response came from Islamabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nearly a month has passed and Pakistan&nbsp;is yet to respond to India's diplomatic note sent in August. In the note, India highlighted the significant global changes since 1960 and stressed the importance of initiating talks to amend the treaty.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indus-water-treaty-first-pakistan-delegation-since-article-370-abrogation-arrives-in-jammu-734714"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Indus Water Treaty: First Pakistan delegation since Article 370 abrogation arrives in Jammu</strong></a></p>

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<p>The Indus Water Treaty was originally signed in 1960 in Karachi by then-Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and then-Pakistani President Ayub Khan. One of the key reasons for seeking an amendment to the treaty is India's increasing reliance on hydropower and the need to accelerate clean energy development to meet its emission targets.</p>

<p>The push for amendments also arises amid controversy surrounding the Kishanganga and Ratle hydro projects. In response, the World Bank has simultaneously activated both the neutral expert mechanism and the Court of Arbitration to address the same issues. Consequently, India has called for a reconsideration of the treaty's dispute resolution mechanism.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-ready-reckoner-on-india-pakistan-tensions-over-indus-waters-treaty-562799"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Explained: India-Pakistan tensions over Indus Waters Treaty | A ready reckoner</strong></a></p>

<p>Under the Indus Water Treaty of 1960, the water of three eastern rivers – Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi are allocated to India for unrestricted use while the waters of three western rivers – Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab go to Pakistan. Additionally, New Delhi has the right to generate hydroelectricity through the run of the river projects on the three western rivers, subject to specific criteria for design.&nbsp;</p>


India has once again called on Pakistan to amend or "review and modify" the Indus Water Treaty, with a diplomatic note sent to Islamabad on August 30, 2024. New Delhi has made a firm case, citing Article XII(3) of the treaty, which allows for amendments to emphasise the need for changes.

India has once again called on Pakistan to amend or "review and modify" the Indus Water Treaty, with a diplomatic note sent to Islamabad on August 30, 2024. New Delhi has made a firm case, citing Article XII(3) of the treaty, which allows for amendments to emphasise the need for changes. Under the Article, the treaty can be modified from time to time for which both governments need to sit for negotiations. "Provisions of this treaty may from time to time be modified by a duly ratified treaty concluded for that purpose between the two Governments," it says. India had last year also reached out to Pakistan seeking to "review and modify" the treaty, but no concrete response came from Islamabad. Nearly a month has passed and Pakistan is yet to respond to India's diplomatic note sent in August. In the note, India highlighted the significant global changes since 1960 and stressed the importance of initiating talks to amend the treaty. Watch | Indus Water Treaty: First Pakistan delegation since Article 370 abrogation arrives in Jammu × The Indus Water Treaty was originally signed in 1960 in Karachi by then-Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and then-Pakistani President Ayub Khan. One of the key reasons for seeking an amendment to the treaty is India's increasing reliance on hydropower and the need to accelerate clean energy development to meet its emission targets. The push for amendments also arises amid controversy surrounding the Kishanganga and Ratle hydro projects. In response, the World Bank has simultaneously activated both the neutral expert mechanism and the Court of Arbitration to address the same issues. Consequently, India has called for a reconsideration of the treaty's dispute resolution mechanism. Also read | Explained: India-Pakistan tensions over Indus Waters Treaty | A ready reckoner Under the Indus Water Treaty of 1960, the water of three eastern rivers – Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi are allocated to India for unrestricted use while the waters of three western rivers – Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab go to Pakistan. Additionally, New Delhi has the right to generate hydroelectricity through the run of the river projects on the three western rivers, subject to specific criteria for design.

India pushes for revisions to Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan

<p>One of the biggest cliches in foreign policy, but a useful one offered in various forms, goes: "Nations have no permanent friends or enemies but only permanent interests." That comes to mind this week amid news that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is due to meet US Presidential candidate Donald Trump, whose political fortunes seem to be going on a roller coaster ride.</p>

<p>It is notable that it is Trump himself who has announced the forthcoming meeting coinciding with Modi's visit to the US linked to the annual session of the United Nations General Assembly. There is no word yet from the Indian side. The fact that Trump has broken the news himself, but with a forked tongue, is enough for Modi and India to look at the meeting with a sense of caution –&nbsp;and there are other reasons as well.</p>

<p>Trump, with his notorious reputation for crude vocabulary, described Modi as a "fantastic" man but also described India as a "very big abuser".&nbsp;</p>

<p>“These, a lot of these leaders are fantastic," the Republican nominee aiming for a return to the White House, told a town hall meeting in Michigan. "... You know the expression, they’re at the top of their game, and they use it against us. But India is very tough.”</p>

<p>Here's the thing: for all we know, Trump with his dealmaker reputation may be describing Modi as a tough negotiator in trade so that he could himself claim credit for acting tough in the American interest. At the same time, the presidential candidate who has been convicted of falsifying business records and accused of inappropriate sexual conduct by women is clearly eyeing Indian American votes. The forked tongue comes in handy when he is trying to impress middle America as an economic dealmaker while praising an Indian PM with an eye on ethnic Indian votes.</p>

<p>Earlier this week, Trump took to social media to post about support from a Hindu community in Georgia. From all indications, his meeting with Modi might be part of a plan to woo right-wing Hindu American votes in his neck-and-neck race against Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee who has emerged&nbsp;to become a formidable challenger to Trump.</p>

<p>In October 2016, three weeks before the presidential polls that took him to the White House in 2017, Trump had declared himself "a big fan of Hindu" at a Republican Hindu Coalition event in New Jersey. “I am a big fan of Hindu, and I am a big fan of India,” Mr Trump had said.</p>

<p>His attempts to meet Modi this month seem like a replay of that spirit.</p>

<p>Trump has never been famous for gentlemanly ways and has to be taken with a pinch of salt. But more than that, Modi has to keep in mind the fact that there is much more to America than Trump and much more to India than a Trump presidency. If the controversial real estate tycoon-turned-self-appointed-America saviour is himself a role model to emulate, the Indian PM should bear in mind his country's interests first&nbsp;–&nbsp;and in that, he should resist the temptation to be seen as a bum-chum pal of the Republicans.</p>

<p>While it is broadly believed that Democratic nominee Harris is not as friendly to the country of her maternal origin as her name would suggest, there is a lot at stake for India –&nbsp;and therefore Modi –&nbsp;to ensure that he is equidistant in domestic politics in the United States. There is no news yet on whether the BJP leader will meet Harris, but many Indians would hope he does. In the current atmosphere, a photo opportunity in which Trump hugs Modi without a balancing image of Modi with Harris may well send a wrong signal across the world.</p>

<p>First up for consideration, there is a see-saw battle for the White House.</p>

<p>Last week, Vice President Harris led Trump 47 per cent to 42 per cent in the race to win the November 5 election according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll. But this week, there is a poll of polls that shows Trump pushing ahead. Any which way, you cannot be sure.</p>

<p>With Pakistan and China making Asian geopolitics a tricky business for India, the US remains India's staunchest foreign policy ally, besides being a big power. The US is India's second-largest trading partner after China. Any balancing act that involves everything from border disputes to trade access to China must be what it is&nbsp;–&nbsp;a carefully calibrated move. For this, it is best for Modi not to fall for Trump's dubious charms and make sure that whoever wins in November is on India's side.</p>

<p>Kamala Harris is a clear pragmatist. Her recent remarks on fracking in fuels and Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas in Gaza show that she is not the hardline leftist she is often described as by her critics. There is no reason why India should be targeted on issues such as religious freedom or human rights by Democrats if Modi plays his cards well&nbsp;–&nbsp;and more importantly, with careful precision.</p>

<p>It is also pertinent to recall that prosperous technology-oriented Indians in Silicon Valley, for all practical purposes, are Democrat supporters.</p>

<p>In such a context, Modi must walk gingerly and show more of a firm handshake than a deceptive hug to the world at large when he meets Trump. It is best for India to wait for the outcome of the November elections and also make sure that it would be New Delhi doing business with Washington and not any old political party or individual leader from the US.</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: The writer's views do not represent those of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.</em></strong></p>


One of the biggest cliches in foreign policy, but a useful one offered in various forms, goes: "Nations have no permanent friends or enemies but only permanent interests.

One of the biggest cliches in foreign policy, but a useful one offered in various forms, goes: "Nations have no permanent friends or enemies but only permanent interests." That comes to mind this week amid news that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is due to meet US Presidential candidate Donald Trump, whose political fortunes seem to be going on a roller coaster ride. It is notable that it is Trump himself who has announced the forthcoming meeting coinciding with Modi's visit to the US linked to the annual session of the United Nations General Assembly. There is no word yet from the Indian side. The fact that Trump has broken the news himself, but with a forked tongue, is enough for Modi and India to look at the meeting with a sense of caution – and there are other reasons as well. Trump, with his notorious reputation for crude vocabulary, described Modi as a "fantastic" man but also described India as a "very big abuser". “These, a lot of these leaders are fantastic," the Republican nominee aiming for a return to the White House, told a town hall meeting in Michigan. "... You know the expression, they’re at the top of their game, and they use it against us. But India is very tough.” Here's the thing: for all we know, Trump with his dealmaker reputation may be describing Modi as a tough negotiator in trade so that he could himself claim credit for acting tough in the American interest. At the same time, the presidential candidate who has been convicted of falsifying business records and accused of inappropriate sexual conduct by women is clearly eyeing Indian American votes. The forked tongue comes in handy when he is trying to impress middle America as an economic dealmaker while praising an Indian PM with an eye on ethnic Indian votes. Earlier this week, Trump took to social media to post about support from a Hindu community in Georgia. From all indications, his meeting with Modi might be part of a plan to woo right-wing Hindu American votes in his neck-and-neck race against Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee who has emerged to become a formidable challenger to Trump. In October 2016, three weeks before the presidential polls that took him to the White House in 2017, Trump had declared himself "a big fan of Hindu" at a Republican Hindu Coalition event in New Jersey. “I am a big fan of Hindu, and I am a big fan of India,” Mr Trump had said. His attempts to meet Modi this month seem like a replay of that spirit. Trump has never been famous for gentlemanly ways and has to be taken with a pinch of salt. But more than that, Modi has to keep in mind the fact that there is much more to America than Trump and much more to India than a Trump presidency. If the controversial real estate tycoon-turned-self-appointed-America saviour is himself a role model to emulate, the Indian PM should bear in mind his country's interests first – and in that, he should resist the temptation to be seen as a bum-chum pal of the Republicans. While it is broadly believed that Democratic nominee Harris is not as friendly to the country of her maternal origin as her name would suggest, there is a lot at stake for India – and therefore Modi – to ensure that he is equidistant in domestic politics in the United States. There is no news yet on whether the BJP leader will meet Harris, but many Indians would hope he does. In the current atmosphere, a photo opportunity in which Trump hugs Modi without a balancing image of Modi with Harris may well send a wrong signal across the world. First up for consideration, there is a see-saw battle for the White House. Last week, Vice President Harris led Trump 47 per cent to 42 per cent in the race to win the November 5 election according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll. But this week, there is a poll of polls that shows Trump pushing ahead. Any which way, you cannot be sure. With Pakistan and China making Asian geopolitics a tricky business for India, the US remains India's staunchest foreign policy ally, besides being a big power. The US is India's second-largest trading partner after China. Any balancing act that involves everything from border disputes to trade access to China must be what it is – a carefully calibrated move. For this, it is best for Modi not to fall for Trump's dubious charms and make sure that whoever wins in November is on India's side. Kamala Harris is a clear pragmatist. Her recent remarks on fracking in fuels and Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas in Gaza show that she is not the hardline leftist she is often described as by her critics. There is no reason why India should be targeted on issues such as religious freedom or human rights by Democrats if Modi plays his cards well – and more importantly, with careful precision. It is also pertinent to recall that prosperous technology-oriented Indians in Silicon Valley, for all practical purposes, are Democrat supporters. In such a context, Modi must walk gingerly and show more of a firm handshake than a deceptive hug to the world at large when he meets Trump. It is best for India to wait for the outcome of the November elections and also make sure that it would be New Delhi doing business with Washington and not any old political party or individual leader from the US. Disclaimer: The writer's views do not represent those of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Modi must avoid Trump trap and walk a tightrope in US poll season

<p>The Indian government is unwilling to heed to USA's request to ban and block Russian state media network RT, formerly known as Russia Today, globally. While the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is yet to issue an official statement, a government official told <em>The Hindu </em>that&nbsp;the&nbsp;matter “does not pertain to India” altogether.</p>

<p>Notably, the issue was discussed at a meeting between US Embassy officials and the MEA in the past fortnight.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kanwal Sibal, former Indian ambassador to Russia said banning media organisations showed “double standards” by the Western countries.</p>

<p>“This will be viewed as double standards by the Global South that they are trying to target. India will obviously not be responsive to such American pressure," Sibal told the publication.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced sanctions against RT stating that the&nbsp;Russian state-backed media company was&nbsp;“functioning like a de facto arm" of Moscow's intelligence apparatus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Today, we’re exposing how Russia deploys similar tactics around the world,” Blinken said. “Russian weaponisation of disinformation to subvert and polarise free and open societies extends to every part of the world.”</p>

<p>“We urge every ally, every partner to start by treating RT’s activities as they do other intelligence activities by Russia within their borders,” Blinken added, with the UK and Canada launching the 'joint diplomatic campaign&nbsp;alongside.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-russia-summit-pm-modi-calls-russia-indias-all-weather-friend-739394"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India-Russia Summit: PM Modi calls Russia 'India's all-weather friend'</strong></a></p>

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<p>While New Delhi has seemingly refused to comply, Facebook owner Meta on Monday (Sep 16) said it was banning&nbsp;RT, Rossiya Segodnya and other Russian state media networks from its platforms. The Mark Zuckerberg-owned company said these outlets had employed&nbsp;deceptive tactics to carry out covert influence operations online.</p>

<p>"After careful consideration, we expanded our ongoing enforcement against Russian state media outlets. Rossiya Segodnya, RT and other related entities are now banned from our apps globally for foreign interference activity," the social media company said in a written statement.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indians-duped-into-joining-russian-army-return-home-says-were-treated-like-slaves-758677"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Indians 'duped' into joining Russian army return home, say were 'treated like slaves'</strong></a></p>

<p>Meta added that enforcement of the ban would roll out over the coming days. In addition to Facebook, Meta's apps include Instagram, WhatsApp and Threads. It remains interesting to see if RT is blacklisted on Indian Meta platforms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;RT criticised the US move and accused the White House of trying to prevent the broadcaster from operating as a journalistic organisation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Indian government is unwilling to heed to USA's request to ban and block Russian state media network RT, formerly known as Russia Today, globally. While the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is yet to issue an official statement, a government official told The Hindu that the matter “does not pertain to India” altogether.

The Indian government is unwilling to heed to USA's request to ban and block Russian state media network RT, formerly known as Russia Today, globally. While the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is yet to issue an official statement, a government official told The Hindu that the matter “does not pertain to India” altogether. Notably, the issue was discussed at a meeting between US Embassy officials and the MEA in the past fortnight. Kanwal Sibal, former Indian ambassador to Russia said banning media organisations showed “double standards” by the Western countries. “This will be viewed as double standards by the Global South that they are trying to target. India will obviously not be responsive to such American pressure," Sibal told the publication. Last week US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced sanctions against RT stating that the Russian state-backed media company was “functioning like a de facto arm" of Moscow's intelligence apparatus. “Today, we’re exposing how Russia deploys similar tactics around the world,” Blinken said. “Russian weaponisation of disinformation to subvert and polarise free and open societies extends to every part of the world.” “We urge every ally, every partner to start by treating RT’s activities as they do other intelligence activities by Russia within their borders,” Blinken added, with the UK and Canada launching the 'joint diplomatic campaign alongside. Watch | India-Russia Summit: PM Modi calls Russia 'India's all-weather friend' × While New Delhi has seemingly refused to comply, Facebook owner Meta on Monday (Sep 16) said it was banning RT, Rossiya Segodnya and other Russian state media networks from its platforms. The Mark Zuckerberg-owned company said these outlets had employed deceptive tactics to carry out covert influence operations online. "After careful consideration, we expanded our ongoing enforcement against Russian state media outlets. Rossiya Segodnya, RT and other related entities are now banned from our apps globally for foreign interference activity," the social media company said in a written statement. Also read | Indians 'duped' into joining Russian army return home, say were 'treated like slaves' Meta added that enforcement of the ban would roll out over the coming days. In addition to Facebook, Meta's apps include Instagram, WhatsApp and Threads. It remains interesting to see if RT is blacklisted on Indian Meta platforms. Meanwhile, RT criticised the US move and accused the White House of trying to prevent the broadcaster from operating as a journalistic organisation. (With inputs from agencies)

India refuses to budge while US, Meta sanction and ban Russian state media network RT

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