National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah, who often criticises&nbsp;the Indian government,&nbsp;on Saturday (August 17) said that the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly plans to pass a resolution opposing the Central government's decision to&nbsp;revoke Article 370,&nbsp;as its first action following the upcoming assembly elections.

Abdullah said that the Assembly's primary focus will be a resolution against the Central government's move, which went into effect on&nbsp;August 5, 2019, and&nbsp;removed the region's statehood and special status.

"The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly will prioritize passing a resolution against the Central Government's decision to take away the region's statehood and special status right after the elections," Abdullah said.

His remarks&nbsp;came&nbsp;a day after the Election Commission of India (ECI)&nbsp;said assembly elections in&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir are&nbsp;scheduled for September 18, 25, and October 1, with vote counting on October 4.&nbsp;

The last assembly elections in the region were held in November-December 2014. However, Jammu and Kashmir have&nbsp;been under the President's Rule since December 19, 2018.

Earlier, Omar Abdullah had said that he would not participate in the assembly elections until statehood is restored.&nbsp;

His father and National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah, who will lead the party during elections, said, "I am pleased that the dates have been moved up. We had hoped for concurrent parliamentary and assembly elections, but that did not happen."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/karnataka-chief-minister-calls-governors-method-illegal-and-anti-constitution-750970">India: Karnataka CM calls governor’s prosecution nod in MUDA case 'anti-Constitutional'</a>

Other political parties in Jammu and Kashmir, including Congress, BJP, CPI(M), and the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP), have also welcomed the Election Commission's announcement of the three-phase elections.

Congress general secretary GA Mir said, "The announcement shows the public's eagerness for a government chosen by them. We believe people in Jammu and Kashmir will actively participate in the elections".

Iltija Mufti, the daughter of former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, said, "The PDP (People's Democratic Party) welcomes the poll announcement." She also noted the long-awaited return to democratic processes in the region.

(With inputs from agencies)

National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah, who often criticises the Indian government, on Saturday (August 17) said that the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly plans to pass a resolution opposing the Central government's decision to revoke Article 370, as its first action following the upcoming assembly elections.

National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah, who often criticises the Indian government, on Saturday (August 17) said that the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly plans to pass a resolution opposing the Central government's decision to revoke Article 370, as its first action following the upcoming assembly elections. Abdullah said that the Assembly's primary focus will be a resolution against the Central government's move, which went into effect on August 5, 2019, and removed the region's statehood and special status. "The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly will prioritize passing a resolution against the Central Government's decision to take away the region's statehood and special status right after the elections," Abdullah said. His remarks came a day after the Election Commission of India (ECI) said assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir are scheduled for September 18, 25, and October 1, with vote counting on October 4. The last assembly elections in the region were held in November-December 2014. However, Jammu and Kashmir have been under the President's Rule since December 19, 2018. Earlier, Omar Abdullah had said that he would not participate in the assembly elections until statehood is restored. His father and National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah, who will lead the party during elections, said, "I am pleased that the dates have been moved up. We had hoped for concurrent parliamentary and assembly elections, but that did not happen." Also read: India: Karnataka CM calls governor’s prosecution nod in MUDA case 'anti-Constitutional' Other political parties in Jammu and Kashmir, including Congress, BJP, CPI(M), and the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP), have also welcomed the Election Commission's announcement of the three-phase elections. Congress general secretary GA Mir said, "The announcement shows the public's eagerness for a government chosen by them. We believe people in Jammu and Kashmir will actively participate in the elections". Iltija Mufti, the daughter of former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, said, "The PDP (People's Democratic Party) welcomes the poll announcement." She also noted the long-awaited return to democratic processes in the region. (With inputs from agencies)

Jammu and Kashmir will challenge Article 370 revocation first thing after elections: Omar Abdullah

Expressing anguish over the brutal and shocking Kolkata rape-murder incident, over 70 Padma awardee doctors have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding the quick enactment of a special law to deal with violence against healthcare personnel and the implementation of improved safety protocols in medical facilities.

Expressing anguish over the brutal and shocking Kolkata rape-murder incident, over 70 Padma awardee doctors have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding the quick enactment of a special law to deal with violence against healthcare personnel and the implementation of improved safety protocols in medical facilities. They suggested that the Centre bring an ordinance immediately to ensure the "harshest possible punishment" to those who indulge in violence against healthcare workers, whether verbal or physical. There have been widespread protests by healthcare personnel and others following the rape and murder of a woman trainee doctor at the state-run R G Kar Medical College and Hospital and claims of a botched-up investigation and cover-up. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) and other doctors' bodies are pressing for a central law to ensure the safety of medics. Among those who have written the letter are former Director General of ICMR Dr Balram Bhargav, former AIIMS Delhi Director Dr Randeep Guleria and Dr S K Sarin, Director of the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences. In the letter, the Padma awardees have sought PM Modi's immediate and personal intervention to address the alarming situation, saying such acts of brutality shake the very foundations of service by medical professionals and highlight the urgent need to address violence, particularly against women, girls, and healthcare professionals. The doctors expressed "deep concern and profound anguish" over the horrific event at R G Kar Medical College in Kolkata. "We stand in unwavering solidarity with the victim's family, whose pain and loss are unimaginable. We also extend our full support to the medical community, who are increasingly confronting such violence in the course of their work. The safety and dignity of healthcare professionals must be safeguarded with utmost priority," the letter said. The doctors stated that stronger measures are desperately needed to prevent such atrocities. "We call upon law enforcement agencies, policymakers, and society at large to take immediate and decisive action," the letter said. The doctors emphasised the need for law enforcement agencies to more rigorously apply current legal frameworks to protect healthcare professionals and advocated for severe and swift penalties to serve as a deterrent against such crimes. The letter urges the government to implement improved safety protocols within healthcare facilities to ensure a secure working environment for all medical staff. "We urge the central and state governments to quickly enact and implement a separate law for the protection of healthcare workers, ensuring its rapid enforcement on the ground," the letter said. "A proposed bill, The Prevention of Violence Against Doctors, Medical Professionals and Medical Institutions Bill, has been ready since 2019 but has not yet been tabled in Parliament for passage and adoption." "We strongly believe that an ordinance to this effect can be brought immediately, and the bill should be passed post-haste so that all those working in healthcare delivery systems in the country can work without fear, in service of suffering patients," the letter said. Also read: Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Supreme Court takes suo motu cognisance The doctors also stressed that the proposed ordinance/bill should ensure that the harshest possible punishment is given to those who indulge in violence against healthcare workers, whether verbal or physical. Such cases should be resolved swiftly by the judiciary, with offences categorised as non-bailable. "Let this tragedy serve as a catalyst for real, lasting change. We earnestly appeal to you through this letter to safeguard the medical profession against physical assaults and defacement of the dignity and respect of all healthcare workers," the letter said. The awardee doctors include Radiologist and Founder and Managing Director of Mahajan Imaging Dr Harsh Mahajan, Dr Nikhil Tandon, head of the department of endocrinology at AIIMS, Delhi, Dr D S Rana, Chairman of the Department of Nephrology at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital and Dr Sandeep Guleria, Transplant Specialist Surgeon. 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.

Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: 70 Padma awardee doctors write to PM Modi, demand special law

The father of the trainee doctor who was brutally raped and murdered at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital&nbsp;alleged that his daughter's body was cremated hurriedly, even though there were already three other bodies at the crematorium.

"The crematorium had three other bodies, but our daughter's was burned first," he told ANI.

"The Chief Minister is talking about providing justice, but attempts are being made to put the common people demanding justice in jail. We are not satisfied with Mamata Banerjee and have refused to take any compensation," he said.

"The Chief Minister makes public statements demanding justice for my daughter but at the same time appears to suppress public outrage. Why this inconsistency? Is she afraid of public opinion? We need clear answers," the victim's father said, speaking to reporters in Kolkata on Sunday (August 18).

He also claimed that the West Bengal government is obstructing statewide protests over his daughter's death. "Protesters are being silenced by the Chief Minister. She protests publicly herself, yet is working to prevent others from doing the same," he added.

The victim's mother has appealed to West Bengal residents, particularly those benefitting from government schemes like Kanyashree and Lakshmi Bhandar.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-of-india-takes-suo-moto-cognisance-of-kolkata-medic-rape-and-murder-hearing-on-aug-20-751119">Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Supreme Court takes suo motu cognisance</a>

"She (Mamata Banerjee) promised that the perpetrator would be swiftly arrested, but only one person has been detained so far. I believe there are many more involved and that the entire department is at fault. The police response was inadequate. It seems the Chief Minister is trying to curb the protests—today she imposed Section 144 to prevent public demonstrations," she said.

These comments came shortly after Kolkata Police imposed prohibitory orders around RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, banning gatherings of more than five people.

The area has been a focal point of protests following the tragic incident, with police enforcing Section 163 (2) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita around the hospital and extending the restrictions up to the Shyambazar five-point crossing.

(With inputs from agencies)

The father of the trainee doctor who was brutally raped and murdered at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital alleged that his daughter's body was cremated hurriedly, even though there were already three other bodies at the crematorium.

The father of the trainee doctor who was brutally raped and murdered at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital alleged that his daughter's body was cremated hurriedly, even though there were already three other bodies at the crematorium. "The crematorium had three other bodies, but our daughter's was burned first," he told ANI. "The Chief Minister is talking about providing justice, but attempts are being made to put the common people demanding justice in jail. We are not satisfied with Mamata Banerjee and have refused to take any compensation," he said. "The Chief Minister makes public statements demanding justice for my daughter but at the same time appears to suppress public outrage. Why this inconsistency? Is she afraid of public opinion? We need clear answers," the victim's father said, speaking to reporters in Kolkata on Sunday (August 18). He also claimed that the West Bengal government is obstructing statewide protests over his daughter's death. "Protesters are being silenced by the Chief Minister. She protests publicly herself, yet is working to prevent others from doing the same," he added. The victim's mother has appealed to West Bengal residents, particularly those benefitting from government schemes like Kanyashree and Lakshmi Bhandar. Also read: Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Supreme Court takes suo motu cognisance "She (Mamata Banerjee) promised that the perpetrator would be swiftly arrested, but only one person has been detained so far. I believe there are many more involved and that the entire department is at fault. The police response was inadequate. It seems the Chief Minister is trying to curb the protests—today she imposed Section 144 to prevent public demonstrations," she said. These comments came shortly after Kolkata Police imposed prohibitory orders around RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, banning gatherings of more than five people. The area has been a focal point of protests following the tragic incident, with police enforcing Section 163 (2) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita around the hospital and extending the restrictions up to the Shyambazar five-point crossing. (With inputs from agencies)

Kolkata rape case: Victim’s father accuses officials of rushed cremation, slams CM Mamata Banerjee

In India's Uttarakhand, the 'Land of Gods', a teenage girl has been ‘gangraped’ by five men on a&nbsp;State Roadways Bus&nbsp;while travelling from the national capital Delhi. The heinous incident, a stark echo of the 2012 Nirbhaya case, took place on the intervening night&nbsp;of August 12 and 13 at the interstate bus terminus (ISBT) in Dehradun. As per reports, the gangrape survivor is a minor, a 15-year-old possibly "mentally disturbed" girl hailing from Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad.

The disturbing crime comes just days after the brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor in West Bengal's Kolkata shocked India and as protests continue to rock the nation.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:118,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1868}">Five men arrested</h2>

Reports suggest that five men, including two bus drivers, were arrested on Sunday (August 18) for gang-raping the minor girl.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:212,&quot;w&quot;:605,&quot;h&quot;:33,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1962}" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-of-india-takes-suo-moto-cognisance-of-kolkata-medic-rape-and-murder-hearing-on-aug-20-751119">Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Supreme Court of India takes suo motu cognisance, hearing on Aug 20</a>

Talking to ANI news agency, Dehradun SSP Ajay Singh said, "On August 13, child helpline 1098 received information that a girl child was sitting at a shop and a person was also there who looked suspicious... 1098 sent their team, interrogated the person, and took the girl to Bal Niketan for counselling."

After 2-3 days of counselling, the victim informed the police that she was sexually assaulted by five men, identified as Dharmendra Kumar (32), Devendra (52), Ravi Kumar (34), Rajpal (57) and Rajesh Kumar Sonkar (38).

A case has been registered under sections 70(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and 5G/6 of the POCSO Act.

"A bus driver from Bhagwanpur is the main accused in this incident, and a case has been registered against him," said Singh.

"Another driver, a cleaner, a sweeper, and a cashier were involved. All five have been identified and arrested. All the accused are residents of Majra, Buggawala and Bhagwanpur," he said, adding, "The main accused said that he saw the girl roaming at Kashmere Gate in Delhi and told her to sit on the bus."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:594,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2344}">How is the victim?</h2>

Child Welfare Committee (CWC) supervisor Sarojini told India Today, "On the morning of the 13th, between 2:00 and 2:30 am, the girl was found in a disoriented state."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/another-day-another-rape-21-year-old-raped-in-indias-bengaluru-days-after-heinous-kolkata-rape-murder-751143">Another day, another rape? 21-year-old raped in India's Bengaluru, days after heinous Kolkata rape-murder</a>

"The girl appeared mentally unstable. There were no visible external injuries or bleeding, but we cannot confirm if there are any internal injuries. She was later sent to a welfare centre."

She underwent a medical examination and a report is awaited. Furthermore, the bus in which&nbsp;the heinous crime allegedly took place, plus another bus, have been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) for investigation.

SSP Singh told the press that a guard at a shop on platform number 1 of the bus terminus in Dehradun called 1098 after spotting the victim.

"The guard called 1098, but the girl did not tell her name and was only saying that she was from Patiala. She also said that she did not have parents. We were told that she seemed mentally disturbed," said SSP Singh.

During counselling, the girl told the police that she was from Moradabad, and was travelling from Delhi to Dehradun when the crime happened.

"The information about the place of incident is not clear, but she revealed that five people had raped her one by one," the police said.

(With inputs from agencies)

In India's Uttarakhand, the 'Land of Gods', a teenage girl has been ‘gangraped’ by five men on a State Roadways Bus while travelling from the national capital Delhi.

In India's Uttarakhand, the 'Land of Gods', a teenage girl has been ‘gangraped’ by five men on a State Roadways Bus while travelling from the national capital Delhi. The heinous incident, a stark echo of the 2012 Nirbhaya case, took place on the intervening night of August 12 and 13 at the interstate bus terminus (ISBT) in Dehradun. As per reports, the gangrape survivor is a minor, a 15-year-old possibly "mentally disturbed" girl hailing from Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad. The disturbing crime comes just days after the brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor in West Bengal's Kolkata shocked India and as protests continue to rock the nation. Five men arrested Reports suggest that five men, including two bus drivers, were arrested on Sunday (August 18) for gang-raping the minor girl. Also read | Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Supreme Court of India takes suo motu cognisance, hearing on Aug 20 Talking to ANI news agency, Dehradun SSP Ajay Singh said, "On August 13, child helpline 1098 received information that a girl child was sitting at a shop and a person was also there who looked suspicious... 1098 sent their team, interrogated the person, and took the girl to Bal Niketan for counselling." After 2-3 days of counselling, the victim informed the police that she was sexually assaulted by five men, identified as Dharmendra Kumar (32), Devendra (52), Ravi Kumar (34), Rajpal (57) and Rajesh Kumar Sonkar (38). A case has been registered under sections 70(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and 5G/6 of the POCSO Act. "A bus driver from Bhagwanpur is the main accused in this incident, and a case has been registered against him," said Singh. "Another driver, a cleaner, a sweeper, and a cashier were involved. All five have been identified and arrested. All the accused are residents of Majra, Buggawala and Bhagwanpur," he said, adding, "The main accused said that he saw the girl roaming at Kashmere Gate in Delhi and told her to sit on the bus." How is the victim? Child Welfare Committee (CWC) supervisor Sarojini told India Today, "On the morning of the 13th, between 2:00 and 2:30 am, the girl was found in a disoriented state." Also read | Another day, another rape? 21-year-old raped in India's Bengaluru, days after heinous Kolkata rape-murder "The girl appeared mentally unstable. There were no visible external injuries or bleeding, but we cannot confirm if there are any internal injuries. She was later sent to a welfare centre." She underwent a medical examination and a report is awaited. Furthermore, the bus in which the heinous crime allegedly took place, plus another bus, have been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) for investigation. SSP Singh told the press that a guard at a shop on platform number 1 of the bus terminus in Dehradun called 1098 after spotting the victim. "The guard called 1098, but the girl did not tell her name and was only saying that she was from Patiala. She also said that she did not have parents. We were told that she seemed mentally disturbed," said SSP Singh. During counselling, the girl told the police that she was from Moradabad, and was travelling from Delhi to Dehradun when the crime happened. "The information about the place of incident is not clear, but she revealed that five people had raped her one by one," the police said. (With inputs from agencies)

Another Nirbhaya? 15-year-old ‘mentally disturbed’ girl gang-raped by five men on bus from Delhi to Dehradun

Days after the brutal rape and murder of a medic in India's West Bengal triggered widespread protests, another case of sexual assault has come to light. A 21-year-old college-going student in Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka, was raped by an unknown man in the wee hours of Sunday (Aug 18) morning.

Bengaluru Police are on the lookout for the rapist. As per reports, the 21-year-old had asked the accused for a lift on his two-wheeler. The incident occurred around 1:15 am near Hosur Main Road, as the woman was returning home after&nbsp;visiting friends.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:150,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1950}">What happened?</h2>

According to police, the woman had initially been travelling in a car but requested a lift from the man on his motorcycle. Instead of taking her to her destination, the man allegedly drove her to a secluded area and raped her.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:261,&quot;w&quot;:605,&quot;h&quot;:33,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2061}" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-of-india-takes-suo-moto-cognisance-of-kolkata-medic-rape-and-murder-hearing-on-aug-20-751119">Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Supreme Court of India takes suo motu cognisance, hearing on Aug 20</a>

The victim managed to send an SOS from her phone, prompting two friends to arrive at the scene. They encountered a man with scratch marks on his face. However, before they could catch him, the man&nbsp;fled from the spot.&nbsp;

The survivor has been admitted to a private hospital where, as per a police officer, she is in a stable condition.

Raman Gupta, Additional Commissioner of Police (East), confirmed that the case is under investigation.&nbsp;

"There is only one suspect. The man who gave her a lift is suspected to be the rapist, and our investigations are on."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/female-resident-doctor-assaulted-at-mumbai-hospital-days-after-kolkata-horror-rape-murder-case-751057">Female resident doctor assaulted at Mumbai hospital, days after Kolkata horror rape-murder case</a>

The police were verifying why she opted to get a lift on the two-wheeler and who else was involved, said Gupta. The case has been registered under Section 64 (rape) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita at the HSR Layout police station.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:592,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2392}">Five teams formed to nab the rapist</h2>

Given the rising public outrage over recent violent incidents, including the rape and murder of a doctor in Kolkata, the Bengaluru police have formed five teams to nab the suspect.&nbsp;

The woman, a final-year student at a local college, had been hitch-hiking home to Hebbagodi from a social gathering in Koramangala.

Police have visited the scene and are in contact with the victim and her relatives to further their investigation.

(With inputs from agencies)

Days after the brutal rape and murder of a medic in India's West Bengal triggered widespread protests, another case of sexual assault has come to light. A 21-year-old college-going student in Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka, was raped by an unknown man in the wee hours of Sunday (Aug 18) morning.

Days after the brutal rape and murder of a medic in India's West Bengal triggered widespread protests, another case of sexual assault has come to light. A 21-year-old college-going student in Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka, was raped by an unknown man in the wee hours of Sunday (Aug 18) morning. Bengaluru Police are on the lookout for the rapist. As per reports, the 21-year-old had asked the accused for a lift on his two-wheeler. The incident occurred around 1:15 am near Hosur Main Road, as the woman was returning home after visiting friends. What happened? According to police, the woman had initially been travelling in a car but requested a lift from the man on his motorcycle. Instead of taking her to her destination, the man allegedly drove her to a secluded area and raped her. Also read | Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Supreme Court of India takes suo motu cognisance, hearing on Aug 20 The victim managed to send an SOS from her phone, prompting two friends to arrive at the scene. They encountered a man with scratch marks on his face. However, before they could catch him, the man fled from the spot. The survivor has been admitted to a private hospital where, as per a police officer, she is in a stable condition. Raman Gupta, Additional Commissioner of Police (East), confirmed that the case is under investigation. "There is only one suspect. The man who gave her a lift is suspected to be the rapist, and our investigations are on." Also read | Female resident doctor assaulted at Mumbai hospital, days after Kolkata horror rape-murder case The police were verifying why she opted to get a lift on the two-wheeler and who else was involved, said Gupta. The case has been registered under Section 64 (rape) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita at the HSR Layout police station. Five teams formed to nab the rapist Given the rising public outrage over recent violent incidents, including the rape and murder of a doctor in Kolkata, the Bengaluru police have formed five teams to nab the suspect. The woman, a final-year student at a local college, had been hitch-hiking home to Hebbagodi from a social gathering in Koramangala. Police have visited the scene and are in contact with the victim and her relatives to further their investigation. (With inputs from agencies)

Another day, another rape? 21-year-old raped in India's Bengaluru, days after heinous Kolkata rape-murder

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday (Aug 18) slammed the central government's move to bring specialists into top government positions through lateral entry. Gandhi accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of bypassing the traditional Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) recruitment process and undermining the Constitution.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday (Aug 18) slammed the central government's move to bring specialists into top government positions through lateral entry. Gandhi accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of bypassing the traditional Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) recruitment process and undermining the Constitution. Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, also claimed that the Modi government was favouring individuals with connections to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in the lateral entry system. Modi attacking the Constitution: Rahul Gandhi "Narendra Modi is attacking the Constitution by recruiting public servants through the 'Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh' (RSS) instead of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). By recruiting for important positions in various central government ministries through lateral entry, the reservation for SC, ST, and OBC categories is being openly undermined," Gandhi said. "Reservation for SC, ST, and OBC categories is being openly snatched away by recruiting through lateral entry on important posts in various ministries of the central government," he wrote in Hindi on X. He added, "I have always said that there is no representation of the underprivileged in the top bureaucracy and other senior positions in the country. Instead of improving this representation, lateral entry is pushing them further away from these top positions." "This is a direct assault on the rights of talented youth preparing for the UPSC and a blow to the concept of social justice and reservation for the underprivileged," he said. Also read: Why is SEBI’s credibility at an all-time low after latest Hindenburg report? Gandhi also pointed to SEBI as an example, citing the appointment of Madhabi Puri Buch from the private sector as chairperson. "The glaring example of what corporate representatives might do in decisive government positions is SEBI, where for the first time, a person from the private sector was appointed as the Chairperson," he said. Anti-national step "This anti-national step, which harms both the administrative structure and social justice, will be strongly opposed by the INDIA bloc. 'Privatization of IAS' is Modi's 'guarantee' to end reservation," he added. Also read: Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Supreme Court of India takes suo motu cognisance, hearing on Aug 20 Gandhi's statement came after the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) announced 45 vacancies on Saturday, 10 for joint secretaries and 35 for directors/deputy secretaries, to be filled through lateral entry on a contract basis. An official described this as the largest round of lateral recruitment undertaken by the central government. Traditionally, these positions are filled by officers from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Forest Service (IFoS). However, the government, through the UPSC, is now filling these roles on a contractual basis, arguing that this will bring in fresh talent and specialised expertise to enhance governance. (With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi slams PM Modi for ‘anti-constitutional’ UPSC lateral entry

The Union Health Ministry of India on Saturday (August 17) urged the doctors to end their nationwide strike, called in protest against the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Hospital, assuring the formation of a committee that will suggest measures for the safety of healthcare professionals.&nbsp;

The Indian health ministry&nbsp;said that this committee will have recommendations from all the stakeholders, and the respective state governments are also invited to share their inputs and suggestions in this regard.

<h2>IMA writes to PM Modi</h2>

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, outlining several demands following the tragic sexual assault and death of a female postgraduate trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Bengal.

The IMA is urging the introduction of a Central Act that would integrate the 2020 amendments to the Epidemic Diseases Act of 1897 into the proposed "Healthcare Services Personnel and Clinical Establishments (Prohibition of Violence and Damage to Property) Bill 2019."

"The security measures at hospitals should be equivalent to those at airports. Designating hospitals as safe zones with mandatory security provisions is a crucial first step. CCTVs, security personnel, and protocols can be implemented thereafter," the IMA said.

<h2>Nationwide protests</h2>

The protest took place while doctors across the nation are on a 24-hour strike following the brutal murder and rape of a trainee doctor at a state-run medical college in Kolkata. All health services were withdrawn&nbsp;during the protest except for emergency care, referred to as 'essential services'.

The medical community now seeks justice and immediate reforms in the system for&nbsp;resident doctors to work and live, including central law to safeguard health professionals from workplace violence.

Union Health Ministry officials held meetings with representatives of the Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA), the Indian Medical Association (IMA), and the Resident Doctors' Associations of Governmental Medical Colleges and Hospitals in Delhi on Saturday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-doctors-launch-24-hour-services-shutdown-over-kolkata-horror-here-are-their-key-demands-750826">Indian doctors launch 24-hour services shutdown over Kolkata horror</a>

"The Ministry requested the agitating doctors to resume their duties in the larger public interest and in view of the rising cases of Dengue and Malaria," the ministry said in the official statement.

However, the&nbsp;healthcare associations have made it clear that they were very concerned about the issue of the safety and security of health workers in their workplaces.

They presented a series of demands to the Central government, saying they&nbsp;have&nbsp;to make fast and concrete moves to save the medical professionals from the atrocities committed.

In response, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare assured the representatives that the government is very sensitive to the problems and challenges the healthcare workers face and is totally committed to addressing these issues.

The ministry informed that 26 states have already put in place legislation to safeguard healthcare workers to&nbsp;show&nbsp;that&nbsp;the government is addressing the issue.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Union Health Ministry of India on Saturday (August 17) urged the doctors to end their nationwide strike, called in protest against the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Hospital, assuring the formation of a committee that will suggest measures for the safety of healthcare professionals.

The Union Health Ministry of India on Saturday (August 17) urged the doctors to end their nationwide strike, called in protest against the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Hospital, assuring the formation of a committee that will suggest measures for the safety of healthcare professionals. The Indian health ministry said that this committee will have recommendations from all the stakeholders, and the respective state governments are also invited to share their inputs and suggestions in this regard. IMA writes to PM Modi The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, outlining several demands following the tragic sexual assault and death of a female postgraduate trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Bengal. The IMA is urging the introduction of a Central Act that would integrate the 2020 amendments to the Epidemic Diseases Act of 1897 into the proposed "Healthcare Services Personnel and Clinical Establishments (Prohibition of Violence and Damage to Property) Bill 2019." "The security measures at hospitals should be equivalent to those at airports. Designating hospitals as safe zones with mandatory security provisions is a crucial first step. CCTVs, security personnel, and protocols can be implemented thereafter," the IMA said. Nationwide protests The protest took place while doctors across the nation are on a 24-hour strike following the brutal murder and rape of a trainee doctor at a state-run medical college in Kolkata. All health services were withdrawn during the protest except for emergency care, referred to as 'essential services'. The medical community now seeks justice and immediate reforms in the system for resident doctors to work and live, including central law to safeguard health professionals from workplace violence. Union Health Ministry officials held meetings with representatives of the Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA), the Indian Medical Association (IMA), and the Resident Doctors' Associations of Governmental Medical Colleges and Hospitals in Delhi on Saturday. Also read: Indian doctors launch 24-hour services shutdown over Kolkata horror "The Ministry requested the agitating doctors to resume their duties in the larger public interest and in view of the rising cases of Dengue and Malaria," the ministry said in the official statement. However, the healthcare associations have made it clear that they were very concerned about the issue of the safety and security of health workers in their workplaces. They presented a series of demands to the Central government, saying they have to make fast and concrete moves to save the medical professionals from the atrocities committed. In response, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare assured the representatives that the government is very sensitive to the problems and challenges the healthcare workers face and is totally committed to addressing these issues. The ministry informed that 26 states have already put in place legislation to safeguard healthcare workers to show that the government is addressing the issue. (With inputs from agencies)

India: IMA writes to PM Modi, lists demands for safety of doctors after Kolkata rape case

The Udaipur district administration on Saturday (August 17) demolished the house of a boy accused of stabbing a classmate, which led to communal unrest in India's western city. The house, allegedly constructed illegally, had already been vacated and disconnected from electricity prior to the&nbsp;demolition.&nbsp;

The forest department issued a notice earlier that morning, stating that the house was built illegally on forest land. Although the notice mentioned a three-day evacuation period, the demolition proceeded that afternoon. The forest department also claimed that a prior notice had been given six months ago.

A video by news agency PTI showed a bulldozer tearing down the house of the accused student. Mobile internet was cut off in several areas of&nbsp;Udaipur&nbsp;for 24 hours starting Friday&nbsp;after a class 10 student was stabbed at school.

According to PTI, all schools were closed following the incident. The stabbing, which involved students of different religions at Rajkiya Ucch Madhyamik Vidyalaya in Bhattiyani Chouhatta, caused significant unrest and chaos, leading to arson and violence that prompted early closures of shops and markets.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-health-ministry-urges-doctors-to-end-nationwide-strike-promises-safety-reforms-750958">India: Health ministry urges doctors to end nationwide strike, promises safety reforms</a>

In response, the district&nbsp;administration enacted Section 163 under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita to manage the situation, resulting in a suspension of internet services and school closures.

On Saturday, the situation was reportedly&nbsp;calm, with markets reopening. Peace talks are ongoing between the conflicting communities, and the injured student's condition is reported to be stable. A team of doctors from Jaipur is in Udaipur to oversee the student’s care.

Udaipur district collector Arvind Poswal confirmed that a special aircraft brought a team of three doctors from Jaipur for the student's treatment. Divisional Commissioner Rajendra Bhatt ordered the suspension of mobile internet services for 24 hours from 10:00&nbsp;pm (local time)&nbsp;on Friday in various areas of Udaipur.

The collector has urged residents to disregard rumours about the incident. After the stabbing, a mob set fire to cars and threw stones outside a government school in Bhattiyani Chohatta amid&nbsp;communal tensions.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Udaipur district administration on Saturday (August 17) demolished the house of a boy accused of stabbing a classmate, which led to communal unrest in India's western city.

The Udaipur district administration on Saturday (August 17) demolished the house of a boy accused of stabbing a classmate, which led to communal unrest in India's western city. The house, allegedly constructed illegally, had already been vacated and disconnected from electricity prior to the demolition. The forest department issued a notice earlier that morning, stating that the house was built illegally on forest land. Although the notice mentioned a three-day evacuation period, the demolition proceeded that afternoon. The forest department also claimed that a prior notice had been given six months ago. A video by news agency PTI showed a bulldozer tearing down the house of the accused student. Mobile internet was cut off in several areas of Udaipur for 24 hours starting Friday after a class 10 student was stabbed at school. According to PTI, all schools were closed following the incident. The stabbing, which involved students of different religions at Rajkiya Ucch Madhyamik Vidyalaya in Bhattiyani Chouhatta, caused significant unrest and chaos, leading to arson and violence that prompted early closures of shops and markets. Also read: India: Health ministry urges doctors to end nationwide strike, promises safety reforms In response, the district administration enacted Section 163 under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita to manage the situation, resulting in a suspension of internet services and school closures. On Saturday, the situation was reportedly calm, with markets reopening. Peace talks are ongoing between the conflicting communities, and the injured student's condition is reported to be stable. A team of doctors from Jaipur is in Udaipur to oversee the student’s care. Udaipur district collector Arvind Poswal confirmed that a special aircraft brought a team of three doctors from Jaipur for the student's treatment. Divisional Commissioner Rajendra Bhatt ordered the suspension of mobile internet services for 24 hours from 10:00 pm (local time) on Friday in various areas of Udaipur. The collector has urged residents to disregard rumours about the incident. After the stabbing, a mob set fire to cars and threw stones outside a government school in Bhattiyani Chohatta amid communal tensions. (With inputs from agencies)

Udaipur stabbing: Administration demolishes house of student accused amid communal unrest

A neighbourhood in the Indian city of Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh was left terrorised on August 14 as a rabid dog went on a biting spree and made more than a dozen people its prey within an hour.

CCTV footage showed the dog brutally attacking a 22-year-old student, who had to be hospitalised later.

Ashish Yadav, from the Awas Vikas Colony, was strolling outside his home talking over the phone when he was suddenly attacked by a dog in the night, at 9:45 pm (local time). In no time, the dog launched its attack, leaving Yadav with no option but to throw his kicks and punches.&nbsp;

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The dog runs away, but only after severely injuring Yadav and biting him in the face. Ashish could be seen bleeding from the mouth, eyes and lips in the footage.

The dog later attacks a woman, who was&nbsp;standing at the gate of her house. It attacked the woman’s legs and knees, prompting her to seek urgent medical care and requiring several stitches.

Then, the dog attacks two girls playing outside their home.

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Within an hour, the dog made 17 people its prey.

NDTV reported that when Ashish Yadav’s father took him to the local government hospital, it didn’t have the required shot.

The local residents have reportedly raised the matter with the municipal corporation about the dog attacks many times in the past but no action has been taken.

However, Gorakhpur’s Additional Municipal Commissioner Durgesh Mishra denied having received any such report.

"We regularly run a campaign for sterilization of stray dogs. An Animal Birth Control Center is also being built. Stray dogs are being caught and sterilized and we run awareness campaigns for vaccination for pet dogs," he was quoted as saying by NDTV.

(With inputs from agencies)

A neighbourhood in the Indian city of Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh was left terrorised on August 14 as a rabid dog went on a biting spree and made more than a dozen people its prey within an hour.

A neighbourhood in the Indian city of Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh was left terrorised on August 14 as a rabid dog went on a biting spree and made more than a dozen people its prey within an hour. CCTV footage showed the dog brutally attacking a 22-year-old student, who had to be hospitalised later. Ashish Yadav, from the Awas Vikas Colony, was strolling outside his home talking over the phone when he was suddenly attacked by a dog in the night, at 9:45 pm (local time). In no time, the dog launched its attack, leaving Yadav with no option but to throw his kicks and punches. Also read: Online outrage over 'sexist' hostess lampshade outfits, Indian-origin CEO responds The dog runs away, but only after severely injuring Yadav and biting him in the face. Ashish could be seen bleeding from the mouth, eyes and lips in the footage. The dog later attacks a woman, who was standing at the gate of her house. It attacked the woman’s legs and knees, prompting her to seek urgent medical care and requiring several stitches. Then, the dog attacks two girls playing outside their home. Also read: Study reveals why cats scratch furniture and tips for managing it Within an hour, the dog made 17 people its prey. NDTV reported that when Ashish Yadav’s father took him to the local government hospital, it didn’t have the required shot. The local residents have reportedly raised the matter with the municipal corporation about the dog attacks many times in the past but no action has been taken. However, Gorakhpur’s Additional Municipal Commissioner Durgesh Mishra denied having received any such report. "We regularly run a campaign for sterilization of stray dogs. An Animal Birth Control Center is also being built. Stray dogs are being caught and sterilized and we run awareness campaigns for vaccination for pet dogs," he was quoted as saying by NDTV. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Dog terrorises UP colony, launches attack on 17 people within an hour

India is celebrating its 78th Independence Day on Thursday (August 15), and as per tradition, the nation's Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the country from the ramparts of the famous Red Fort.

India is celebrating its 78th Independence Day on Thursday (August 15), and as per tradition, the nation's Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the country from the ramparts of the famous Red Fort. This marked his 11th consecutive Independence Day address. In his speech, he touched on various topics of national importance, including the Bangladesh crisis, frequent natural disasters, Viksit Bharat, and women's safety. Here are some highlights from the Prime Minister's address: Natural disasters "This year and for the past few years, due to natural calamity, our concerns have been mounting. Several people have lost their family members, and property in natural calamity; the nation too has suffered losses. Today, I express my sympathy to all of them and assure them that this nation stands with them in this hour of crisis," PM Modi said. Also read: Independence Day 2024: PM Modi expresses concern over Bangladesh unrest Women empowerment and safety "In last 10 years, 10 crore women joined women self-help groups. 10 crore women are becoming financially independent. When women become financially independent they become part of the decision-making system in a household leading to social change...Till now, 9 lakh crores have been given to self-help groups in the country," PM said. "For working women, maternity leave has been increased from 12 weeks to 26 weeks. We not only just respect women, we not only take decisions for her sensitively, we make decisions to ensure that the government does not become a hindrance in the requirements of the mother to make her child a quality citizen," he continued. × PM Modi also spoke on the matter of women safety amid the ongoing Kolkata rape case. "...I would like to express my pain once again, from the Red Fort today. As a society, we will have to think seriously about the atrocities against women that are happening - there is outrage against this in the country. I can feel this outrage. The country, society, and State Governments will have to take this seriously. Speedy investigation of crimes against women, those executing these monstrous deeds be awarded strict punishment at the earliest - this is important to instil confidence in society," he said. Also read: It is India's dream to host 2036 Olympics: PM Modi during I-Day speech "I would also like to say that when rapes and incidents of atrocities on women occur, it is widely discussed. But when a person of such monstrous tendency is punished, it is not seen in news but restricted to a corner. It is the need of the hour, that extensive discussion on those receiving punishment be held so that those committing this sin understand that this leads to hanging. I think it is very important to instil this fear," the PM added. 'Space is important' "The space sector is an important aspect. We have done many reforms in this sector. Today, many startups are entering this sector. The space sector which is becoming vibrant is an essential element towards making India a powerful nation. We are focusing and giving strength to this sector with a long-term idea." Idea of 'Viksit Bharat' "For Viksit Bharat 2047, we invited suggestions from the countrymen. The many suggestions we received reflect the dreams and aspirations of our citizens. Some people suggested making India the skill capital, some others said that India should be made a manufacturing hub and the country must become self-reliant," said PM Modi. "Reforms in governance and justice system, creation of greenfield cities, capacity building, India’s space station - these are the aspirations of the citizens….When the people of the nation have such big dreams, it takes our self-confidence to newer heights and we become more resolute," the Indian Prime Minister added. Bangladesh unrest "As a neighbouring country, I can understand the concern regarding whatever has happened in Bangladesh. I hope that the situation there gets normal at the earliest. The concerns of 140 crore countrymen to ensure the safety of Hindus and minorities there - India always wants our neighbouring countries to walk the path of prosperity and peace. We are committed to peace...In the days to come, we will continue to wish well for Bangladesh in its 'Vikas Yatra' because we think about the welfare of humankind." Also read: 'Current civil code is...': PM Modi bats for secular UCC from Red Fort Need for a Secular Civil Code in the country PM Narendra Modi said, "Supreme Court has held discussions regarding the Uniform Civil Code again and again, it has given orders several times. A large section of the country believes - and it is true, that the Civil Code that we are living with is a Communal Civil Code in a way...I would say that it is the need of the hour that there be a Secular Civil Code in the country...only then would we be free of discrimination based on religion..." (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi's Independence day speech highlights: Women's safety, Bangladesh crisis, and more

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iranian Supreme leader, blasted&nbsp;Israel today for its "psychological warfare".&nbsp;Slamming the "enemy psychological warfare," Iran's supreme leader Khamenei stressed that any "non-tactical retreat — be it military, political, or economic — invites 'divine wrath', as per the Holy Quran".&nbsp;In Assam's biggest city Guwahati, the police were seen having cordoned off several roads,&nbsp;including stretches of Zoo Road, the Ulubari-Rajgarh connecting road, and Narengi after reports came that&nbsp;banned outfit United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) had delivered a bomb threat. In other news, new&nbsp;details have emerged around Ukraine’s ongoing offensive deep inside Russian territory, throwing light on the extent of unpreparedness of President Vladimir Putin’s regime.

Click on the headlines to read more

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Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday (August 14) condemned Israel for its "psychological warfare" aimed at forcing Tehran to reconsider retaliation for the assassination of Hamas' political leader Ismail Haniyeh in the country.

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Security forces in northeast India's Assam state responded with a heightened state of alert after the banned outfit United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) on Thursday (August 15) delivered a bomb threat.&nbsp;

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Palestinian Authority President Mahmud Abbas told a special session of the Turkish parliament on Thursday (August 15) that he would travel to Gaza, while adding, "Our life is not more worthy than the life of a child."

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On the three-year anniversary of the Taliban's return to power, the group's supreme leader said in a speech that implementing Islamic law in the country was a "lifelong responsibility" for the Afghanistan rulers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russians-were-unarmed-having-coffee-ukrainian-soldier-recounts-moment-they-invaded-kursk-750474">‘Russians were unarmed, having coffee,’ Ukrainian soldier recounts moment they invaded Kursk</a>

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The cross-border attack, which began on August 6, caught Russian soldiers off guard and some of them were having coffee in the woods at that moment, according to an account of a Ukrainian soldier published by the Financial Times.

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The Biden administration this week has negotiated deals with major pharmaceutical companies to lower the prices of 10 of Medicare’s most widely used and expensive drugs.&nbsp;

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Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Thursday (Aug 15) extended his Independence Day greetings to the nation, saying freedom was a protective shield woven into the Constitution.

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A team of UN experts will visit Bangladesh next week to investigate the killings of the protesters ahead of and in the aftermath of Sheikh Hasina's resignation as the prime minister last week, it was announced on Thursday.

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Former India cricketer and legendary Test batter VVS Laxman is all set to extend his stay as the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) according to&nbsp;the latest reports on Thursday (Aug 15).

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Stree 2&nbsp;picks up from where&nbsp;Stree&nbsp;had ended. After being haunted for years by a veiled ghost who targeted men in dark, lonely streets, Vicky and the town of Chanderi were able to give&nbsp;Stree the respect that she had craved and set her free.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iranian Supreme leader, blasted Israel today for its "psychological warfare". Slamming the "enemy psychological warfare," Iran's supreme leader Khamenei stressed that any "non-tactical retreat — be it military, political, or economic — invites 'divine wrath', as per the Holy Quran".

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iranian Supreme leader, blasted Israel today for its "psychological warfare". Slamming the "enemy psychological warfare," Iran's supreme leader Khamenei stressed that any "non-tactical retreat — be it military, political, or economic — invites 'divine wrath', as per the Holy Quran". In Assam's biggest city Guwahati, the police were seen having cordoned off several roads, including stretches of Zoo Road, the Ulubari-Rajgarh connecting road, and Narengi after reports came that banned outfit United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) had delivered a bomb threat. In other news, new details have emerged around Ukraine’s ongoing offensive deep inside Russian territory, throwing light on the extent of unpreparedness of President Vladimir Putin’s regime. Click on the headlines to read more Backing down from retaliating against Israel would invite ‘divine wrath’: Iran supreme leader Khamenei Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday (August 14) condemned Israel for its "psychological warfare" aimed at forcing Tehran to reconsider retaliation for the assassination of Hamas' political leader Ismail Haniyeh in the country. Bomb scare in Assam after ULFA (I) claims it planted explosives at 19 locations Security forces in northeast India's Assam state responded with a heightened state of alert after the banned outfit United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) on Thursday (August 15) delivered a bomb threat. Palestinian leader Mahmud Abbas vows to visit Gaza, says ‘our life is not more worthy’ than a child’s Palestinian Authority President Mahmud Abbas told a special session of the Turkish parliament on Thursday (August 15) that he would travel to Gaza, while adding, "Our life is not more worthy than the life of a child." Sharia rule a 'lifelong responsibility': Akhundzada on three years of Taliban rule in Afghanistan On the three-year anniversary of the Taliban's return to power, the group's supreme leader said in a speech that implementing Islamic law in the country was a "lifelong responsibility" for the Afghanistan rulers. ‘Russians were unarmed, having coffee,’ Ukrainian soldier recounts moment they invaded Kursk The cross-border attack, which began on August 6, caught Russian soldiers off guard and some of them were having coffee in the woods at that moment, according to an account of a Ukrainian soldier published by the Financial Times. Biden, Harris strike major pharma deal to cut Medicare drug prices The Biden administration this week has negotiated deals with major pharmaceutical companies to lower the prices of 10 of Medicare’s most widely used and expensive drugs. ‘Freedom our biggest shield,’ says Rahul Gandhi in I-Day message; Congress releases LoP's report card Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Thursday (Aug 15) extended his Independence Day greetings to the nation, saying freedom was a protective shield woven into the Constitution. UN to send fact-finding team to crisis-hit Bangladesh, first since 1971 A team of UN experts will visit Bangladesh next week to investigate the killings of the protesters ahead of and in the aftermath of Sheikh Hasina's resignation as the prime minister last week, it was announced on Thursday. VVS Laxman to get contract extension as head of the National Cricket Academy Former India cricketer and legendary Test batter VVS Laxman is all set to extend his stay as the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) according to the latest reports on Thursday (Aug 15). Stree 2 review: Rajkummar Rao, Shraddha Kapoor's film expands its universe, Abhishek Banerjee shines Stree 2 picks up from where Stree had ended. After being haunted for years by a veiled ghost who targeted men in dark, lonely streets, Vicky and the town of Chanderi were able to give Stree the respect that she had craved and set her free.

Top 10 world news: Iran's Khamenei condemns Israel; bomb scare in India's Assam, and more

Bhutan Prime Minister&nbsp;Tshering Tobgay and&nbsp;Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe will be among the world leaders who will attend&nbsp;the virtual Voice of Global South Summit, hosted by India,&nbsp;this Saturday (August 17). This will be the third&nbsp;edition of the summit to be hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, but the first one this year. Several countries from Africa, Latin America, and Pacific countries have been invited.&nbsp;

A Ministry of External Affairs release said that:&nbsp;"India will host the 3rd Voice of Global South Summit on 17 August 2024. This unique initiative began as an extension of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas aur Sabka Prayas’, and is underpinned by India's philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. It envisages bringing together countries of the Global South to share their perspectives and priorities on a common platform across a whole range of issues."

Last year, India hosted two voices of the global south summits virtually, the outcomes of which were part of India's G20 Presidency, including the New Delhi declaration issued after the G20 summit. The first&nbsp;Voice of Global South Summit (VOGSS) took place in January 2023 while the second&nbsp;one was in November 2023.

Through these summits, India's focus is to give a platform to issues impacting the global south amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the war in Gaza&nbsp;and other disruptions that have led to increased prices of fuel, fertilisers, etc. This has especially impacted the people of the global south, with increases in prices of commodities.&nbsp;

Both the previous editions of the summit saw the participation of over 100 countries from the global south. The summit, which will take place this Saturday, will have 10 ministerial sessions at the level of foreign, health, youth, trade, information and technology, finance, energy, education, and environment ministers.

Bangladesh has been invited to the third&nbsp;Global South Summit, the invitations for which were sent out well in advance. It is now known who from the&nbsp;interim government will attend the summit. Last year, the then Bangladesh Prime Minister Hasina attended the India-hosted summit.

Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay and Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe will be among the world leaders who will attend the virtual Voice of Global South Summit, hosted by India, this Saturday (August 17).

Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay and Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe will be among the world leaders who will attend the virtual Voice of Global South Summit, hosted by India, this Saturday (August 17). This will be the third edition of the summit to be hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, but the first one this year. Several countries from Africa, Latin America, and Pacific countries have been invited. A Ministry of External Affairs release said that: "India will host the 3rd Voice of Global South Summit on 17 August 2024. This unique initiative began as an extension of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas aur Sabka Prayas’, and is underpinned by India's philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. It envisages bringing together countries of the Global South to share their perspectives and priorities on a common platform across a whole range of issues." Last year, India hosted two voices of the global south summits virtually, the outcomes of which were part of India's G20 Presidency, including the New Delhi declaration issued after the G20 summit. The first Voice of Global South Summit (VOGSS) took place in January 2023 while the second one was in November 2023. Through these summits, India's focus is to give a platform to issues impacting the global south amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the war in Gaza and other disruptions that have led to increased prices of fuel, fertilisers, etc. This has especially impacted the people of the global south, with increases in prices of commodities. Both the previous editions of the summit saw the participation of over 100 countries from the global south. The summit, which will take place this Saturday, will have 10 ministerial sessions at the level of foreign, health, youth, trade, information and technology, finance, energy, education, and environment ministers. Bangladesh has been invited to the third Global South Summit, the invitations for which were sent out well in advance. It is now known who from the interim government will attend the summit. Last year, the then Bangladesh Prime Minister Hasina attended the India-hosted summit.

Bhutan PM, Sri Lankan president to attend 3rd Voice of Global South Summit

Two NATO air bases in Germany were sealed off after suspected sabotage. From Paris, the development emerged that ace Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat won't be given a silver medal after she failed to weigh as per her category hours before her final bout at the quadrennial event.&nbsp;

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A NATO air base in Geilenkirchen, Germany, about 622 km west of Berlin,&nbsp;was sealed off on Wednesday (August 14) due to a suspected sabotage incident, according to a spokesperson from the German military’s Territorial Command in Berlin. 
 
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The Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS) has dismissed wrestler Vinesh Phogat's appeal against disqualification from women's 50kg&nbsp;freestyle gold medal bout at&nbsp;Paris Olympics 2024. The decision was announced on Wednesday (Aug 14).

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Throwing the country into a political conundrum,&nbsp;Thailand's Constitutional Court on Wednesday (Aug 14) removed Prime Minister&nbsp;Srettha Thavisin from office in an ethics case.&nbsp;

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Two French Mirage fighter jets reportedly crashed mid-air on Wednesday&nbsp;(Aug 14)&nbsp;morning in France’s north-eastern region, triggering the launch of a massive search and rescue operation. The jets collided on the border between Vosges and Meurthe-et-Moselle, south of Colombey-les-Belles.

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Two NATO air bases in Germany were sealed off after suspected sabotage. From Paris, the development emerged that ace Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat won't be given a silver medal after she failed to weigh as per her category hours before her final bout at the quadrennial event.

Two NATO air bases in Germany were sealed off after suspected sabotage. From Paris, the development emerged that ace Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat won't be given a silver medal after she failed to weigh as per her category hours before her final bout at the quadrennial event. Click here to read more: Two NATO bases in Germany sealed off after suspected sabotage A NATO air base in Geilenkirchen, Germany, about 622 km west of Berlin, was sealed off on Wednesday (August 14) due to a suspected sabotage incident, according to a spokesperson from the German military’s Territorial Command in Berlin. Vinesh Phogat CAS Verdict: Wrestler's appeal for joint-silver medal dismissed The Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS) has dismissed wrestler Vinesh Phogat's appeal against disqualification from women's 50kg freestyle gold medal bout at Paris Olympics 2024. The decision was announced on Wednesday (Aug 14). Political chaos in Thailand: PM Srettha Thavisin removed from office by court Throwing the country into a political conundrum, Thailand's Constitutional Court on Wednesday (Aug 14) removed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin from office in an ethics case. Two French Mirage fighter jets crash mid-air, search launched for two missing pilots Two French Mirage fighter jets reportedly crashed mid-air on Wednesday (Aug 14) morning in France’s north-eastern region, triggering the launch of a massive search and rescue operation. The jets collided on the border between Vosges and Meurthe-et-Moselle, south of Colombey-les-Belles. Ukraine forces advance 2 km inside Russia’s Kursk, claims Zelensky; India issues advisory Ukraine on Wednesday (Aug 14) said that its forces had advanced deeper into Russia’s Kursk region as Moscow faces the biggest incursion since World War 2. The offensive began on August 6 and has now affected at least three regions of the country, posing a major security challenge for strongman President Vladimir Putin. President Murmu recalls horrors of partition, says social justice top priority of Modi government India's President Droupadi Murmu addressed the nation on Wednesday (August 14) on the eve of the 78th Independence Day. "Modi government has taken numerous initiatives for the welfare of SC, ST, and marginalised sections. Social justice is top priority of Modi government," President Murmu said. Will Sheikh Hasina be extradited? × Donald Trump whitewashes Kamala Harris? Calls her 'beautiful' like wife Melania Less than a month after stepping up as the Democratic presidential candidate, US Vice President Kamala Harris is gaining momentum in the race, moving ahead in polls and attracting large crowds at rallies across the United States. This week, the presumptive presidential candidate for the Democratic Party also landed the cover of Time Magazine. Post Vienna scare: Unticketed Taylor Swift fans banned from standing outside London stadium New safety measures have been put in place for Taylor Swift’s concert in London. This will be the first time that the American singer will perform, after three concerts were cancelled in the Austrian capital city, Vienna.

Top 10 world news: NATO bases in Germany sealed; Vinesh Phogat loses appeal for Olympic Silver; and more

The unconditional cash transfers to women have emerged as the defining trend in the upcoming assembly elections scheduled for the end of this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The state governments of Maharashtra, Haryana and Jharkhand are ready to launch direct cash transfer schemes for women starting this month.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a bid to stay in power, this scheme was started by the BJP government in Madhya Pradesh last year, and since then, all the parties in power have relied on cash handouts to women voters.&nbsp;

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Starting this festive season, the Eknath-Shinde-led Maharashtra government has announced Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin scheme, under which women in the age group of 21-60 years will get Rs 1,500 per month (approximately $18).&nbsp;

It has planned to credit the first two installments for July and August before Rakshabandhan festival, which falls on 19th August.&nbsp;

According to state government officials, till now, about 12.9 million women beneficiaries have been verified, and the amount will be transferred to their accounts.&nbsp;

The scheme will be launched this month in the state of Jharkhand&nbsp;as well. Almost 3 million registrations have been done so far.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For the same, the government has announced the Mukhyamantri Maiyan Samman Yojana, under which women in the age group of 21-50 years will get Rs 1,000 ($12) every month in their bank accounts.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjGsojvoPSHAxWHTWwGHQQXOG4QxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hemant-soren-to-take-oath-as-jharkhand-cm-today-737788" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hemant-soren-to-take-oath-as-jharkhand-cm-today-737788&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjGsojvoPSHAxWHTWwGHQQXOG4QxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">India: JMM leader Hemant Soren takes oath as chief minister of Jharkhand state</a>

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren said, “We always want to empower women and make them financially strong and self-dependent. We are going to provide cash assistance to every woman in the state in the age group of 21-50 years every month. I have directed the officials concerned to implement it fast.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the case of the state of Haryana, around five million families will benefit from the scheme that will be launched this month and registrations have already started for the same.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The BJP government led by Nayab Saini has launched the Har Ghar Har Grahani scheme, under which households below the poverty line will be given an LPG cylinder each for Rs 500 ($6).&nbsp;&nbsp;

The difference between the actual price of the cylinder and Rs 500 will be transferred directly to the bank accounts of the women.&nbsp;

Apart from these, at present, at least eight other states, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, West Bengal, Punjab, and Madhya Pradesh, have cash transfer schemes for women.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The unconditional cash transfers to women have emerged as the defining trend in the upcoming assembly elections scheduled for the end of this year. The state governments of Maharashtra, Haryana and Jharkhand are ready to launch direct cash transfer schemes for women starting this month.

The unconditional cash transfers to women have emerged as the defining trend in the upcoming assembly elections scheduled for the end of this year. The state governments of Maharashtra, Haryana and Jharkhand are ready to launch direct cash transfer schemes for women starting this month. In a bid to stay in power, this scheme was started by the BJP government in Madhya Pradesh last year, and since then, all the parties in power have relied on cash handouts to women voters. Also read: India: Schools in Haryana to replace ‘good morning,` `good afternoon` with ‘Jai Hind’ to inspire patriotism Starting this festive season, the Eknath-Shinde-led Maharashtra government has announced Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin scheme, under which women in the age group of 21-60 years will get Rs 1,500 per month (approximately $18). It has planned to credit the first two installments for July and August before Rakshabandhan festival, which falls on 19th August. According to state government officials, till now, about 12.9 million women beneficiaries have been verified, and the amount will be transferred to their accounts. The scheme will be launched this month in the state of Jharkhand as well. Almost 3 million registrations have been done so far. For the same, the government has announced the Mukhyamantri Maiyan Samman Yojana, under which women in the age group of 21-50 years will get Rs 1,000 ($12) every month in their bank accounts. Also read: India: JMM leader Hemant Soren takes oath as chief minister of Jharkhand state Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren said, “We always want to empower women and make them financially strong and self-dependent. We are going to provide cash assistance to every woman in the state in the age group of 21-50 years every month. I have directed the officials concerned to implement it fast.” In the case of the state of Haryana, around five million families will benefit from the scheme that will be launched this month and registrations have already started for the same. The BJP government led by Nayab Saini has launched the Har Ghar Har Grahani scheme, under which households below the poverty line will be given an LPG cylinder each for Rs 500 ($6). The difference between the actual price of the cylinder and Rs 500 will be transferred directly to the bank accounts of the women. Apart from these, at present, at least eight other states, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, West Bengal, Punjab, and Madhya Pradesh, have cash transfer schemes for women.

India: States launch direct cash transfer schemes for women ahead of assembly polls

More than eight years after a husband was charged with causing dowry death, a court&nbsp;has acquitted him, saying only the fact of the woman's unnatural death within seven years of marriage was not sufficient to prove the charges.

It observed that there is no presumption that every suicide committed by a married woman was because of harassment by her husband or in-laws and that suicides were committed by people for various reasons. 
 
Additional Sessions Judge Vishal Pahuja was hearing a case against Swatantra Kumar Jaysawal, who was accused of driving her wife to commit suicide.

According to the prosecution, deceased Jyoti married Jaysawal in July 2010 and after being harassed by the accused for dowry, she committed suicide by hanging in October 2015.

Referring to a 2010 verdict of the Supreme Court, the judge said, "There is no presumption that every suicide committed by a married woman in her in-laws' house or at her parents' house has to be because she was suffering harassment at the hands of her husband or her in-laws. Suicides are committed by living human beings for various reasons, some are not able to bear the normal stresses which are common in life." Noting the evidence before it, the court said that it was not convinced about the truthfulness of the charges, nor was the prosecution able to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt.

"The factum of unnatural death in the matrimonial home and that too within seven years of marriage is thus ipso facto not sufficient to bring home the charge under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 304B (cruelty) and 498A (dowry death) against him," the court said in its judgment passed on August 9.

Noting "discrepancies and contradictions" in the testimonies of the deceased's parents, the court said that they failed to substantiate the prosecution's case.

It said, "Bare perusal of the suicide note shows that the deceased ended her life out of her own will and it is categorically stated that nobody is responsible for her act... The document contradicts and demolishes the allegations of harassment or cruelty made against the accused for meeting the demand of dowry." It said the deceased did not make any complaint against her husband to anyone during her lifetime.

"In view of the material inconsistencies in the testimony of the prosecution witnesses and due to lack of cogent evidence lead on the record, this court is of the view that the prosecution has miserably failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt and the evidence coming on record entitles the accused to the benefit of doubt," the judge said, acquitting the husband.

Malviya Nagar police station had registered a case against the accused.

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.

More than eight years after a husband was charged with causing dowry death, a court has acquitted him, saying only the fact of the woman's unnatural death within seven years of marriage was not sufficient to prove the charges.

More than eight years after a husband was charged with causing dowry death, a court has acquitted him, saying only the fact of the woman's unnatural death within seven years of marriage was not sufficient to prove the charges. It observed that there is no presumption that every suicide committed by a married woman was because of harassment by her husband or in-laws and that suicides were committed by people for various reasons. Additional Sessions Judge Vishal Pahuja was hearing a case against Swatantra Kumar Jaysawal, who was accused of driving her wife to commit suicide. According to the prosecution, deceased Jyoti married Jaysawal in July 2010 and after being harassed by the accused for dowry, she committed suicide by hanging in October 2015. Referring to a 2010 verdict of the Supreme Court, the judge said, "There is no presumption that every suicide committed by a married woman in her in-laws' house or at her parents' house has to be because she was suffering harassment at the hands of her husband or her in-laws. Suicides are committed by living human beings for various reasons, some are not able to bear the normal stresses which are common in life." Noting the evidence before it, the court said that it was not convinced about the truthfulness of the charges, nor was the prosecution able to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. "The factum of unnatural death in the matrimonial home and that too within seven years of marriage is thus ipso facto not sufficient to bring home the charge under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 304B (cruelty) and 498A (dowry death) against him," the court said in its judgment passed on August 9. Noting "discrepancies and contradictions" in the testimonies of the deceased's parents, the court said that they failed to substantiate the prosecution's case. It said, "Bare perusal of the suicide note shows that the deceased ended her life out of her own will and it is categorically stated that nobody is responsible for her act... The document contradicts and demolishes the allegations of harassment or cruelty made against the accused for meeting the demand of dowry." It said the deceased did not make any complaint against her husband to anyone during her lifetime. "In view of the material inconsistencies in the testimony of the prosecution witnesses and due to lack of cogent evidence lead on the record, this court is of the view that the prosecution has miserably failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt and the evidence coming on record entitles the accused to the benefit of doubt," the judge said, acquitting the husband. Malviya Nagar police station had registered a case against the accused. 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 court says 'no presumption' that suicide committed by married woman is due to harassment by husband

Supriya Sule, leader of the Nationalist Congress Party-Sharadchandra Pawar (NCP-SP) and Baramati MP on Monday (August 12) said that after her phone and WhatsApp were hacked on Sunday, hackers were blackmailing her and asking for $400 from her.

“The party general secretary Aditi Nalawade's WhatsApp was also hacked. Hackers demanded ₹10,000 from her. We tried to keep them engaged by agreeing to pay. They had even shared account details of a bank for transferring money,” Sule said.

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She announced on Sunday that her phone was hacked and requested people to refrain from texting or calling her. "Urgent: My phone and WhatsApp have been hacked. Please do not call or text me. I have reached out to the police for help," she wrote in a post on X.

Sule filed a complaint at Yavat police station against the perpetrators and labelled the matter serious. Sule also had a word with the superintendent of police Pankaj Deshmukh, who assured her that the police would look into the matter.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/delhi-cab-driver-throws-out-pakistani-passenger-his-female-friend-over-anti-india-remarks-749429">Delhi cab driver throws out Pakistani passenger, his female friend over anti-India remarks</a>

“My phone and WhatsApp have started. The WhatsApp team provided valuable support. A big thank you to Team WhatsApp and Pune rural police for this. If anyone has messaged me in the meantime, I apologise for not being able to reply due to this technical glitch,” she said in a subsequent post.

The Baramati MP said that she got a notice from the Income Tax Department after the budget session. “I don't know if it is a coincidence that every time I speak in the Parliament, I get a notice from income tax in the same case," she said.

"Every time we respond to the notice nothing happens later. I'm looking for data and it has to correlate. Have asked Sadanand Sule (her husband) to gather the data. I don't want to make allegations,” she added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Supriya Sule, leader of the Nationalist Congress Party-Sharadchandra Pawar (NCP-SP) and Baramati MP on Monday (August 12) said that after her phone and WhatsApp were hacked on Sunday, hackers were blackmailing her and asking for $400 from her.

Supriya Sule, leader of the Nationalist Congress Party-Sharadchandra Pawar (NCP-SP) and Baramati MP on Monday (August 12) said that after her phone and WhatsApp were hacked on Sunday, hackers were blackmailing her and asking for $400 from her. “The party general secretary Aditi Nalawade's WhatsApp was also hacked. Hackers demanded ₹10,000 from her. We tried to keep them engaged by agreeing to pay. They had even shared account details of a bank for transferring money,” Sule said. Also read: Hindenburg vs Adani: Global investors say Sebi chief Madhabi Buch should resign to restore confidence She announced on Sunday that her phone was hacked and requested people to refrain from texting or calling her. "Urgent: My phone and WhatsApp have been hacked. Please do not call or text me. I have reached out to the police for help," she wrote in a post on X. Sule filed a complaint at Yavat police station against the perpetrators and labelled the matter serious. Sule also had a word with the superintendent of police Pankaj Deshmukh, who assured her that the police would look into the matter. Also read: Delhi cab driver throws out Pakistani passenger, his female friend over anti-India remarks “My phone and WhatsApp have started. The WhatsApp team provided valuable support. A big thank you to Team WhatsApp and Pune rural police for this. If anyone has messaged me in the meantime, I apologise for not being able to reply due to this technical glitch,” she said in a subsequent post. The Baramati MP said that she got a notice from the Income Tax Department after the budget session. “I don't know if it is a coincidence that every time I speak in the Parliament, I get a notice from income tax in the same case," she said. "Every time we respond to the notice nothing happens later. I'm looking for data and it has to correlate. Have asked Sadanand Sule (her husband) to gather the data. I don't want to make allegations,” she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Supriya Sule phone, WhatsApp hacked: Hackers blackmail her, demand $400

Three engineers have been suspended by India's Central Public Works Department (CPWD) for their alleged involvement in illegalities related to the renovation of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's official residence.

Chief engineer, Pradeep Kumar Parmar and superintending engineer, Abhishek Raj and Ashok Kumar Rajdev were suspended and&nbsp;said to be instrumental in the construction of Kejriwal’s bungalow.&nbsp;

The three engineers along with five others, according to CPWD violated rules and escalated costs&nbsp;"in the name of superior modifications on the instructions of CM Kejriwal."

These engineers allegedly colluded with the Delhi Public Works Department (PWD) minister and green-lit the construction of Kejriwal's new bungalow by citing an urgency clause, even though there was no real urgency, according to the vigilance department.&nbsp;

The construction happened at a time when the finance department had been issuing orders on budget cuts due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/concerning-vp-dhankhar-condemns-congress-for-bangladesh-could-happen-in-india-remark-749025">‘Concerning,’ VP Dhankhar condemns Congress for ‘Bangladesh could happen in India’ remark</a>

“Out of the five other engineers, three have already been suspended on the directions of the LG, while a recommendation has been made to CPWD to initiate action against one engineer, who has now retired,” the officials said, as per India TV.

“Since the two engineers – Parmar and Abhishek Raj - belong to the CPWD and are currently posted outside Delhi, the Vigilance Department, on the directions of LG, VK Saxena, had requested the Director General (CPWD) to suspend and initiate major penalty against Pradeep Kumar Parmar and Abhishek Raj. While Parmar is currently posted in Guwahati, Abhishek Raj is posted in Kharagpur,” they added.

According to the vigilance department, crores of rupees were spent on high-end features&nbsp;including&nbsp;decorative work, premium flooring, high-quality wooden doors, automatic sliding glass doors, sheer curtains with fabric curtain tracks and motors, wool carpets, artistic mouldings, defogger glass in toilets and bathrooms, as well as sauna baths and jacuzzis.

The matter is currently under investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

(With inputs from agencies)

Three engineers have been suspended by India's Central Public Works Department (CPWD) for their alleged involvement in illegalities related to the renovation of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's official residence.

Three engineers have been suspended by India's Central Public Works Department (CPWD) for their alleged involvement in illegalities related to the renovation of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's official residence. Chief engineer, Pradeep Kumar Parmar and superintending engineer, Abhishek Raj and Ashok Kumar Rajdev were suspended and said to be instrumental in the construction of Kejriwal’s bungalow. The three engineers along with five others, according to CPWD violated rules and escalated costs "in the name of superior modifications on the instructions of CM Kejriwal." These engineers allegedly colluded with the Delhi Public Works Department (PWD) minister and green-lit the construction of Kejriwal's new bungalow by citing an urgency clause, even though there was no real urgency, according to the vigilance department. The construction happened at a time when the finance department had been issuing orders on budget cuts due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Also read: ‘Concerning,’ VP Dhankhar condemns Congress for ‘Bangladesh could happen in India’ remark “Out of the five other engineers, three have already been suspended on the directions of the LG, while a recommendation has been made to CPWD to initiate action against one engineer, who has now retired,” the officials said, as per India TV. “Since the two engineers – Parmar and Abhishek Raj - belong to the CPWD and are currently posted outside Delhi, the Vigilance Department, on the directions of LG, VK Saxena, had requested the Director General (CPWD) to suspend and initiate major penalty against Pradeep Kumar Parmar and Abhishek Raj. While Parmar is currently posted in Guwahati, Abhishek Raj is posted in Kharagpur,” they added. According to the vigilance department, crores of rupees were spent on high-end features including decorative work, premium flooring, high-quality wooden doors, automatic sliding glass doors, sheer curtains with fabric curtain tracks and motors, wool carpets, artistic mouldings, defogger glass in toilets and bathrooms, as well as sauna baths and jacuzzis. The matter is currently under investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal bungalow renovation scandal: Three engineers suspended for role in 'illegalities'

In yet another incident raising safety concerns over women using public washrooms, a Bengaluru woman on Saturday (Aug 10)&nbsp;claimed&nbsp;that she found a phone on recording mode inside a dustbin at a well-known coffee outlet. The woman shared the horrifying experience on social media, saying the phone belonged to an employee of the outlet. A complaint was registered and police are believed to have opened an investigation into the matter.

The incident occurred at the Third Wave Coffee on BEL Road in Bengaluru. The phone was allegedly on aeroplane mode and it had been recording video for the last two hours. The face of the camera was facing the women’s toilet, while the phone was securely placed inside the dustbin bag with a small hole cut.

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The incident was shared on Instagram by an account identified as '@gangsofcinepur.' 
 
The café in response to the post said it was taking strict action against the employee.&nbsp;It said, "The safety and well-being of our customers is always our priority. Third Wave Coffee has a stringent zero tolerance policy and the person under question at BEL Road store has been immediately terminated, with necessary legal action being initiated."

Earlier, the woman who experienced the ordeal narrated the story on Instagram.

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The user '@gangsofcinepur' wrote, "I was at a @thirdwavecoffeeindia outlet in Bengaluru this morning, and this is what happened: A woman found a phone in the washroom, hidden in the dustbin, with video recording on for about 2 hours, facing the toilet seat. It was on flight mode so that it makes no sound, and was carefully hidden in the dustbin bag which had a hole made in it so that only the camera is exposed."

"It was quickly found that the phone belongs to one of the men working there. The police was called and they arrived soon enough, and action is being taken."

"This was so horrific to witness. I will be vigilant at any washroom I use from now on, no matter how well-known the chain of cafe or restaurant is. And I request all of you to do the same. This is absolutely disgusting."

(With inputs from agencies)

In yet another incident raising safety concerns over women using public washrooms, a Bengaluru woman on Saturday (Aug 10) claimed that she found a phone on recording mode inside a dustbin at a well-known coffee outlet.

In yet another incident raising safety concerns over women using public washrooms, a Bengaluru woman on Saturday (Aug 10) claimed that she found a phone on recording mode inside a dustbin at a well-known coffee outlet. The woman shared the horrifying experience on social media, saying the phone belonged to an employee of the outlet. A complaint was registered and police are believed to have opened an investigation into the matter. The incident occurred at the Third Wave Coffee on BEL Road in Bengaluru. The phone was allegedly on aeroplane mode and it had been recording video for the last two hours. The face of the camera was facing the women’s toilet, while the phone was securely placed inside the dustbin bag with a small hole cut. Also read: Mystery of gigantic stones used in Herod`s Temple in Jerusalem solved The incident was shared on Instagram by an account identified as '@gangsofcinepur.' The café in response to the post said it was taking strict action against the employee. It said, "The safety and well-being of our customers is always our priority. Third Wave Coffee has a stringent zero tolerance policy and the person under question at BEL Road store has been immediately terminated, with necessary legal action being initiated." Earlier, the woman who experienced the ordeal narrated the story on Instagram. Also read: Oxford scientists develop ultra-thin solar coating for efficient energy harvesting The user '@gangsofcinepur' wrote, "I was at a @thirdwavecoffeeindia outlet in Bengaluru this morning, and this is what happened: A woman found a phone in the washroom, hidden in the dustbin, with video recording on for about 2 hours, facing the toilet seat. It was on flight mode so that it makes no sound, and was carefully hidden in the dustbin bag which had a hole made in it so that only the camera is exposed." "It was quickly found that the phone belongs to one of the men working there. The police was called and they arrived soon enough, and action is being taken." "This was so horrific to witness. I will be vigilant at any washroom I use from now on, no matter how well-known the chain of cafe or restaurant is. And I request all of you to do the same. This is absolutely disgusting." (With inputs from agencies)

Bengaluru café under fire after phone found recording video inside women’s washroom

Indian Parliament's budget session ended a day early on Friday (Aug 9), drawing criticism from the Opposition as they&nbsp;accused the government of being "skittish" and cutting the session short because they were "out-debated on every issue."

Originally, the session, which began on July 22, was supposed to run until August 12. However, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla adjourned the lower house of the Indian parliament&nbsp;sine die on August 11, following the earlier adjournment of the Rajya Sabha (upper house of the Indian parliament).

In the session, the Finance Bill was approved. Additionally, a bill aimed at amending the Waqf Amendment law was introduced and sent to a joint committee of Parliament.

<h2>What is adjourned sine die?</h2>

Adjournment sine die refers to suspending a session of Parliament without setting a specific date to reconvene. It occurs when the presiding officers of the Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha adjourn the House without mentioning when it will meet again.

Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, expressed gratitude to the chairmen of both Houses.

"After many years, neither the Budget session nor the entire Parliament session was washed out even for a single day, and we saw very good business transactions in both Houses along with active participation from the members. On behalf of all the members of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, and the government, I want to thank the chairpersons of both Houses for their great help in running the Houses," Rijiju said at a press conference.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-5-gujarat-ias-officers-face-medical-re-evaluation-after-puja-khedkar-case-748814">Five Gujarat IAS officers face medical re-evaluation after Puja Khedkar case</a>

Lok Sabha Speaker&nbsp;Birla revealed that Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget for 2024-2025 in the House on July 23. The general discussion on the budget lasted 27 hours and 19 minutes, with 181 Members taking part. On July 30, the finance minister responded to the debate, the Lok Sabha speaker&nbsp;mentioned.

Birla also noted that 12&nbsp;government Bills were introduced during the session, and four of them were passed. The approved bills are:&nbsp;The Finance Bill, 2024, The Appropriation Bill, 2024, The Jammu and Kashmir Appropriation Bill, 2024, and The Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak, 2024. Birla mentioned that the House's productivity exceeded 130 per cent.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Parliament's budget session ended a day early on Friday (Aug 9), drawing criticism from the Opposition as they accused the government of being "skittish" and cutting the session short because they were "out-debated on every issue.

Indian Parliament's budget session ended a day early on Friday (Aug 9), drawing criticism from the Opposition as they accused the government of being "skittish" and cutting the session short because they were "out-debated on every issue." Originally, the session, which began on July 22, was supposed to run until August 12. However, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla adjourned the lower house of the Indian parliament sine die on August 11, following the earlier adjournment of the Rajya Sabha (upper house of the Indian parliament). In the session, the Finance Bill was approved. Additionally, a bill aimed at amending the Waqf Amendment law was introduced and sent to a joint committee of Parliament. What is adjourned sine die? Adjournment sine die refers to suspending a session of Parliament without setting a specific date to reconvene. It occurs when the presiding officers of the Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha adjourn the House without mentioning when it will meet again. Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, expressed gratitude to the chairmen of both Houses. "After many years, neither the Budget session nor the entire Parliament session was washed out even for a single day, and we saw very good business transactions in both Houses along with active participation from the members. On behalf of all the members of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, and the government, I want to thank the chairpersons of both Houses for their great help in running the Houses," Rijiju said at a press conference. Also read: Five Gujarat IAS officers face medical re-evaluation after Puja Khedkar case Lok Sabha Speaker Birla revealed that Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget for 2024-2025 in the House on July 23. The general discussion on the budget lasted 27 hours and 19 minutes, with 181 Members taking part. On July 30, the finance minister responded to the debate, the Lok Sabha speaker mentioned. Birla also noted that 12 government Bills were introduced during the session, and four of them were passed. The approved bills are: The Finance Bill, 2024, The Appropriation Bill, 2024, The Jammu and Kashmir Appropriation Bill, 2024, and The Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak, 2024. Birla mentioned that the House's productivity exceeded 130 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha adjourned sine die: What does it mean?

The district elementary education officer in the Indian state of Haryana announced a new order saying that schools across the state will have to replace typical greetings like 'good morning' and 'good evening' with 'Jai Hind' on August 15, India's Independence Day.

“On the suggestion of the Education Minister, the Education Department has issued orders that on the occasion of Independence Day, children, teachers and all of us in our schools should use 'Jai Hind' instead of greetings like 'Good Morning' and 'Good Evening',” District Elementary Education Officer, Ambala, Sudhir Kalra told news agency ANI.

He added, “These orders will apply to all schools including private schools because the feeling of patriotism should be instilled in all children and people so that it will be implemented in all schools.”

The move, initiated by the Haryana government, is to "instil a deep sense of patriotism and national pride" among the students, said the directorate of school education in a statement on Thursday (Aug 8).

The circular was shared with&nbsp;all the district education officers, district elementary education officers, district block education officers, block elementary education officers, principals and headmasters.&nbsp;

The circular states that 'Jai Hind'&nbsp;will replace 'good morning'&nbsp;in schools so that students can be inspired "every day with the spirit of national unity" and inspire "respect for the rich history" of the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wayanad-landslides-pm-modi-conducts-aerial-survey-of-disaster-hit-areas-meets-victims-families-748975">PM Modi conducts aerial survey of Wayanad, meets victims' families</a>

The patriotic greeting 'Jai Hind' will encourage students to appreciate sacrifices made for the country's freedom, the circular said.

'Jai Hind' transcends regional, linguistic, and cultural differences and promotes unity among students from diverse backgrounds, it added.&nbsp;

The circular mentioned that regular use of greetings like 'Jai Hind' will inculcate a sense of discipline and uniformity among students.

"This greeting is both inspirational and motivational, reminding students of their potential to contribute to the progress of the nation. 'Jai Hind' is a source of inspiration for young Indians which encourages them to contribute positively to the development of India," it stated.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The district elementary education officer in the Indian state of Haryana announced a new order saying that schools across the state will have to replace typical greetings like 'good morning' and 'good evening' with 'Jai Hind' on August 15, India's Independence Day.

The district elementary education officer in the Indian state of Haryana announced a new order saying that schools across the state will have to replace typical greetings like 'good morning' and 'good evening' with 'Jai Hind' on August 15, India's Independence Day. “On the suggestion of the Education Minister, the Education Department has issued orders that on the occasion of Independence Day, children, teachers and all of us in our schools should use 'Jai Hind' instead of greetings like 'Good Morning' and 'Good Evening',” District Elementary Education Officer, Ambala, Sudhir Kalra told news agency ANI. He added, “These orders will apply to all schools including private schools because the feeling of patriotism should be instilled in all children and people so that it will be implemented in all schools.” The move, initiated by the Haryana government, is to "instil a deep sense of patriotism and national pride" among the students, said the directorate of school education in a statement on Thursday (Aug 8). The circular was shared with all the district education officers, district elementary education officers, district block education officers, block elementary education officers, principals and headmasters. The circular states that 'Jai Hind' will replace 'good morning' in schools so that students can be inspired "every day with the spirit of national unity" and inspire "respect for the rich history" of the country. Also read: PM Modi conducts aerial survey of Wayanad, meets victims' families The patriotic greeting 'Jai Hind' will encourage students to appreciate sacrifices made for the country's freedom, the circular said. 'Jai Hind' transcends regional, linguistic, and cultural differences and promotes unity among students from diverse backgrounds, it added. The circular mentioned that regular use of greetings like 'Jai Hind' will inculcate a sense of discipline and uniformity among students. "This greeting is both inspirational and motivational, reminding students of their potential to contribute to the progress of the nation. 'Jai Hind' is a source of inspiration for young Indians which encourages them to contribute positively to the development of India," it stated. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Schools in Haryana to replace ‘good morning,' 'good afternoon' with ‘Jai Hind’ to inspire patriotism

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (August 10) conducted an aerial survey of disaster-hit areas in the Indian state of Kerala's&nbsp;Wayanad district&nbsp;where landslides claimed hundreds of lives.

Modi boarded an Indian Air Force helicopter and conducted an aerial survey over the landslide-ravaged Chooralmala, Mundakkai, and Punchirimattom hamlets before leaving Kannur Airport to Wayanad around 11:15 am (local time).

The visit was also attended by Kerala&nbsp;Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan,&nbsp;Governor Arif Mohammed Khan and Union Minister of State for Tourism and Petroleum and Natural Gas, Suresh Gopi.

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Kerala: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits the landslide-affected area in Wayanad. He is being briefed about the evacuation efforts. 
 
Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, CM Pinarayi Vijayan and Union Minister Suresh Gopi are also present. <a href="https://t.co/5Tz7mUMPkZ">pic.twitter.com/5Tz7mUMPkZ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1822215049848533438?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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After the aerial survey, PM Modi would land at the SKMJ Higher Secondary School in Kalpetta. He would then&nbsp;proceed to certain landslides-hit areas by road.

His visit comes at a time when the Kerala government has sought Rs 2,000 crore ($238,234) in assistance for rehabilitation and relief work in the disaster-stricken region.&nbsp;

At least 226 people have died, with many more still unaccounted for, after landslides hit the region on July 30 in what is seen as one of the biggest natural disasters to have impacted the southern state.

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Kerala | PM Narendra Modi undertook an aerial survey in Wayanad before physically visiting the location of the disaster. 
 
In the aerial survey, he saw the origin of the landslide, which is in the origin of Iruvazhinji Puzha (River). He also observed the worst affected areas of… <a href="https://t.co/bGGSbIbbZ6">pic.twitter.com/bGGSbIbbZ6</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1822175046451822598?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-unrest-chief-justice-says-he-will-resign-after-protest-ultimatum-748936">Bangladesh unrest: Chief Justice Hassan resigns after protest ultimatum</a>

The Indian PM&nbsp;also visited Dr&nbsp;Moopen's Wayanad Medical College at Rippon and interacted with six people -&nbsp;Avanthika, Arun, Shruthi Mohapatra, Jassila, Raseena, and Anil, undergoing treatment at the hospital after&nbsp;the landslide.

Avanthika lost her parents and brother in the disaster, while Mohapatra, an Orissa native, lost her husband, and Anil lost his mother and lone child in the catastrophe.

A review meeting was called at the Wayanad collectorate at Kalpetta to assess the gravity of the calamity, according to a report by The Hindu.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Kerala: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits the relief camp to meet and interact with the victims and survivors of the landslide in Wayanad. 
 
(Source: DD News) <a href="https://t.co/EK0GxrJuSp">pic.twitter.com/EK0GxrJuSp</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1822205373446590716?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The ruling party&nbsp;and the Opposition have&nbsp;requested the Central government to declare the July 30 landslide&nbsp;that flattened Chooralmala, Mundakkai, and Attamala localities a national disaster.&nbsp;

Search operations for bodies of missing persons in the Chooralmala-Mundakkai landslides are ongoing. Though no new bodies were retrieved, the search teams found seven pieces from different places. The confirmed death toll&nbsp;stands at 224, as of August 6, 2024.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (August 10) conducted an aerial survey of disaster-hit areas in the Indian state of Kerala's Wayanad district where landslides claimed hundreds of lives.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (August 10) conducted an aerial survey of disaster-hit areas in the Indian state of Kerala's Wayanad district where landslides claimed hundreds of lives. Modi boarded an Indian Air Force helicopter and conducted an aerial survey over the landslide-ravaged Chooralmala, Mundakkai, and Punchirimattom hamlets before leaving Kannur Airport to Wayanad around 11:15 am (local time). The visit was also attended by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Governor Arif Mohammed Khan and Union Minister of State for Tourism and Petroleum and Natural Gas, Suresh Gopi. Kerala: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits the landslide-affected area in Wayanad. He is being briefed about the evacuation efforts. Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, CM Pinarayi Vijayan and Union Minister Suresh Gopi are also present. pic.twitter.com/5Tz7mUMPkZ — ANI (@ANI) August 10, 2024 × After the aerial survey, PM Modi would land at the SKMJ Higher Secondary School in Kalpetta. He would then proceed to certain landslides-hit areas by road. His visit comes at a time when the Kerala government has sought Rs 2,000 crore ($238,234) in assistance for rehabilitation and relief work in the disaster-stricken region. At least 226 people have died, with many more still unaccounted for, after landslides hit the region on July 30 in what is seen as one of the biggest natural disasters to have impacted the southern state. Kerala | PM Narendra Modi undertook an aerial survey in Wayanad before physically visiting the location of the disaster. In the aerial survey, he saw the origin of the landslide, which is in the origin of Iruvazhinji Puzha (River). He also observed the worst affected areas of… pic.twitter.com/bGGSbIbbZ6 — ANI (@ANI) August 10, 2024 × Also read: Bangladesh unrest: Chief Justice Hassan resigns after protest ultimatum The Indian PM also visited Dr Moopen's Wayanad Medical College at Rippon and interacted with six people - Avanthika, Arun, Shruthi Mohapatra, Jassila, Raseena, and Anil, undergoing treatment at the hospital after the landslide. Avanthika lost her parents and brother in the disaster, while Mohapatra, an Orissa native, lost her husband, and Anil lost his mother and lone child in the catastrophe. A review meeting was called at the Wayanad collectorate at Kalpetta to assess the gravity of the calamity, according to a report by The Hindu. #WATCH | Kerala: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits the relief camp to meet and interact with the victims and survivors of the landslide in Wayanad. (Source: DD News) pic.twitter.com/EK0GxrJuSp — ANI (@ANI) August 10, 2024 × The ruling party and the Opposition have requested the Central government to declare the July 30 landslide that flattened Chooralmala, Mundakkai, and Attamala localities a national disaster. Search operations for bodies of missing persons in the Chooralmala-Mundakkai landslides are ongoing. Though no new bodies were retrieved, the search teams found seven pieces from different places. The confirmed death toll stands at 224, as of August 6, 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

Wayanad landslides: PM Modi conducts aerial survey of disaster-hit areas, meets victims' families

The Gujarat General Administration Department (GAD) has called for a re-evaluation of the medical certificates for five IAS officers after a fraud case involving trainee IAS officer Puja Khedkar in the Indian state of Maharashtra came to light.

The Gujarat General Administration Department (GAD) has called for a re-evaluation of the medical certificates for five IAS officers after a fraud case involving trainee IAS officer Puja Khedkar in the Indian state of Maharashtra came to light. Khedkar's selection in the civil services was based on a fraudulent disability certificate, resulting in the cancellation of her UPSC selection. The medical exams are expected to take place at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital or Rajkot AIIM. One of these officers has a senior role in the state administration. The GAD launched the investigation following Khedkar's high-profile case in Maharashtra. The department, supervised directly by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, has raised questions about the disability certificates provided by these five IAS officers from his state. A senior officer claimed blindness and three junior officers listed ‘locomotive disability’ on their certificates, sources told Times Now. The re-testing has caused concern among the officers, as their positions could be at risk if their disabilities are not validated. What's the Puja Khedkar case about? Puja Khedkar, an ex-probationary IAS officer, faced serious consequences when the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) annulled her application for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2022. On July 31, 2024, UPSC also permanently banned Khedkar from partaking in any future exams or selections due to her breach of CSE-2022 regulations. Also read: India: Police arrest wanted ISIS terrorist near Delhi-Faridabad border Khedkar is accused of submitting fake PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities) and OBC certificates to exceed the allowed number of exam attempts. Originally appointed as Assistant Collector in Pune, she was transferred to Washim, Maharashtra, after reports of abusing her position first surfaced. It was later revealed that she changed her name and her parents' names to avoid being caught for her repeated exam attempts. On July 18, the UPSC sent Khedkar a show-cause notice, giving her until July 30 to reply. She did not respond, leading the UPSC to file a criminal case against her for forgery and falsification. The Delhi Police are looking into the case, and the UPSC is now examining the records of over 15,000 candidates from 2009 to 2023 to prevent similar issues in the future. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Five Gujarat IAS officers face medical re-evaluation after Puja Khedkar case

The Russian nuclear power agency Rosatom has commenced the production of nuclear fuel that will power India's Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP) Units 3 and 4, which are under construction in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

"TVEL Fuel Company of Rosatom has started implementation of nuclear fuel supply contract. This contract embraces the entire lifetime of the power units from the starting loading of the reactor cores," Rosatom said.

Typically, modern-day nuclear power plants have a lifetime of 40-60 years. Kudankulam comprises a total of six VVER-1000 type power units, each of which is capable of generating 1000 megawatts of power.

For nearly 10&nbsp;years, Units 1 and 2 of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant have been operational. Thus far, during the operational period of Units 1 and 2 of KKNPP, Russian and Indian specialists have accomplished a large amount of work to improve their efficiency by introducing advanced nuclear fuel and extended fuel cycles.&nbsp;

Since 2022, Kudankulam NPP has been supplied with nuclear fuel of improved design 'TVS-2M'. The new fuel ensures more reliable and cost-efficient operation of reactors due to its rigid skeleton, new-generation anti-debris filter and higher uranium mass.

The introduction of TVS-2M also enabled the increase of the continuous operation period of the reactor from 12 months to 18 months.

The newer fuel meant that the reactor could operate for six months longer than usual. Typically, after 12 months of operation, the reactor has to be shut down and its irradiated fuel has to be unloaded and the fresh fuel has to be loaded.

Now this process needs to be done only once in 18 months, thanks to the new type of fuel that is in use. Longer periods of continuous operation boosts the economic efficiency of the nuclear reactor, as it can produce more power during the year and faces less number of shutdowns overall.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/s-jaishankar-begins-3-day-maldives-visit-today-amid-tense-relations-748629">Indian FM S. Jaishankar to begin 3-day Maldives visit amid tense relations</a>

“The facilities of the second stage of the Kudankulam NPP will be the first VVER-1000 reactors in history to be launched in an extended 18-month fuel cycle.

"This is a result of our successful cooperation in recent years, as the efficient solutions which have been previously implemented at similar reactors in Russia and China were also introduced at the Kudankulam operational power units.

Throughout the entire NPP life cycle, Rosatom not only supplies nuclear fuel, but also provides engineering services, improving the efficiency of power units through new solutions for fuel and fuel cycle,” Natalia Nikipelova, president of TVEL Fuel Company, said.

KKNPP in Tamil Nadu involves the construction of six&nbsp;power units of VVER-1000 reactors with an installed capacity of 6000 MW. The first stage, consisting of power units No.&nbsp;1 and No. 2, was commissioned in 2013 and 2017, respectively.

Power units No. 3, 4 and No. 5, 6 are the second and third stages of the Kudankulam NPP. Currently, power units 3, 4, 5, and 6 are under construction.

TVEL Fuel Company of Rosatom (the fuel division of the state corporation Rosatom)&nbsp;includes enterprises for the manufacture of nuclear fuel, conversion and enrichment of uranium, production of gas centrifuges, as well as research and design organisations.

Being the only exclusive supplier of nuclear fuel for Russian nuclear power plants, TVEL provides fuel to a total of more than 70 power reactors in 15 countries, and research reactors in nine countries across&nbsp;the world.

Notably, every sixth power reactor in the world is powered by TVEL fuel. Rosatom’s fuel division is also the world’s largest producer of enriched uranium.

The Russian nuclear power agency Rosatom has commenced the production of nuclear fuel that will power India's Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP) Units 3 and 4, which are under construction in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

The Russian nuclear power agency Rosatom has commenced the production of nuclear fuel that will power India's Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP) Units 3 and 4, which are under construction in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. "TVEL Fuel Company of Rosatom has started implementation of nuclear fuel supply contract. This contract embraces the entire lifetime of the power units from the starting loading of the reactor cores," Rosatom said. Typically, modern-day nuclear power plants have a lifetime of 40-60 years. Kudankulam comprises a total of six VVER-1000 type power units, each of which is capable of generating 1000 megawatts of power. For nearly 10 years, Units 1 and 2 of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant have been operational. Thus far, during the operational period of Units 1 and 2 of KKNPP, Russian and Indian specialists have accomplished a large amount of work to improve their efficiency by introducing advanced nuclear fuel and extended fuel cycles. Since 2022, Kudankulam NPP has been supplied with nuclear fuel of improved design 'TVS-2M'. The new fuel ensures more reliable and cost-efficient operation of reactors due to its rigid skeleton, new-generation anti-debris filter and higher uranium mass. The introduction of TVS-2M also enabled the increase of the continuous operation period of the reactor from 12 months to 18 months. The newer fuel meant that the reactor could operate for six months longer than usual. Typically, after 12 months of operation, the reactor has to be shut down and its irradiated fuel has to be unloaded and the fresh fuel has to be loaded. Now this process needs to be done only once in 18 months, thanks to the new type of fuel that is in use. Longer periods of continuous operation boosts the economic efficiency of the nuclear reactor, as it can produce more power during the year and faces less number of shutdowns overall. Also read: Indian FM S. Jaishankar to begin 3-day Maldives visit amid tense relations “The facilities of the second stage of the Kudankulam NPP will be the first VVER-1000 reactors in history to be launched in an extended 18-month fuel cycle. "This is a result of our successful cooperation in recent years, as the efficient solutions which have been previously implemented at similar reactors in Russia and China were also introduced at the Kudankulam operational power units. Throughout the entire NPP life cycle, Rosatom not only supplies nuclear fuel, but also provides engineering services, improving the efficiency of power units through new solutions for fuel and fuel cycle,” Natalia Nikipelova, president of TVEL Fuel Company, said. KKNPP in Tamil Nadu involves the construction of six power units of VVER-1000 reactors with an installed capacity of 6000 MW. The first stage, consisting of power units No. 1 and No. 2, was commissioned in 2013 and 2017, respectively. Power units No. 3, 4 and No. 5, 6 are the second and third stages of the Kudankulam NPP. Currently, power units 3, 4, 5, and 6 are under construction. TVEL Fuel Company of Rosatom (the fuel division of the state corporation Rosatom) includes enterprises for the manufacture of nuclear fuel, conversion and enrichment of uranium, production of gas centrifuges, as well as research and design organisations. Being the only exclusive supplier of nuclear fuel for Russian nuclear power plants, TVEL provides fuel to a total of more than 70 power reactors in 15 countries, and research reactors in nine countries across the world. Notably, every sixth power reactor in the world is powered by TVEL fuel. Rosatom’s fuel division is also the world’s largest producer of enriched uranium.

Russia commences fuel production for Kudankulam Units 3 and 4

A 50-year-old American woman who was found chained to a tree in a forest in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg district on Saturday (July 27), had shackled herself, police and her doctor&nbsp;told the BBC.

Lalita Kayi was rescued 10 days ago from the forests of Sindhudurg district by a shepherd in the remote village of Sonurli.&nbsp;

The shepherd heard her cries on Saturday evening and immediately alerted the local authorities.&nbsp; 
When police arrived at the scene, they found her one leg chained to a tree.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/us-woman-of-indian-origin-found-chained-and-starving-in-maharashtra-jungle-745469">US woman's ordeal: Attempted murder charge filed against&nbsp;ex-husband</a>

In her written statement to police, she alleged that her husband chained her and left her in the forest to die without food or water.

Kayi, who is currently receiving treatment in a psychiatric facility, has not spoken anything publicly. The&nbsp;US embassy has also refused to comment, citing her right to privacy.

According to Sindhudurg SP Saurabh Agarwal, Kayi has recanted her previous claim of being married, attributing her initial statement to possible hallucinations, as reported by BBC.

The police further said&nbsp;her visa had run out and&nbsp;she had little&nbsp;money to survive, so she&nbsp;bought locks and chains and tied herself to the tree.

Dr Sanghamitra Phule, superintendent of the psychiatric hospital where Kayi is being treated informed&nbsp;that her condition is improving.

"Kayi now eats properly, walks and also exercises. She is under treatment,” Dr Phule said and added “her family had been traced in the US and that Kayi was in touch with them.”

When she was first found by the shepherd, she was in a bad condition. The local police provided first aid and transported her to a primary healthcare centre in Sawantwadi taluka.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gold-for-whale-giant-sea-creature-makes-magical-appearance-at-surfing-event-in-paris-747945">Gold for whale: Giant sea creature makes magical appearance at surfing event during Paris Games</a>

Given her condition, she was referred to a more advanced medical facility in Sindhudurg's Oros for further treatment.&nbsp;

She had claimed that she had been without food for 40 days and that her husband had abandoned her in the forest after an argument.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 50-year-old American woman who was found chained to a tree in a forest in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg district on Saturday (July 27), had shackled herself, police and her doctor told the BBC.

A 50-year-old American woman who was found chained to a tree in a forest in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg district on Saturday (July 27), had shackled herself, police and her doctor told the BBC. Lalita Kayi was rescued 10 days ago from the forests of Sindhudurg district by a shepherd in the remote village of Sonurli. The shepherd heard her cries on Saturday evening and immediately alerted the local authorities. When police arrived at the scene, they found her one leg chained to a tree. Also read: US woman's ordeal: Attempted murder charge filed against ex-husband In her written statement to police, she alleged that her husband chained her and left her in the forest to die without food or water. Kayi, who is currently receiving treatment in a psychiatric facility, has not spoken anything publicly. The US embassy has also refused to comment, citing her right to privacy. According to Sindhudurg SP Saurabh Agarwal, Kayi has recanted her previous claim of being married, attributing her initial statement to possible hallucinations, as reported by BBC. The police further said her visa had run out and she had little money to survive, so she bought locks and chains and tied herself to the tree. Dr Sanghamitra Phule, superintendent of the psychiatric hospital where Kayi is being treated informed that her condition is improving. "Kayi now eats properly, walks and also exercises. She is under treatment,” Dr Phule said and added “her family had been traced in the US and that Kayi was in touch with them.” When she was first found by the shepherd, she was in a bad condition. The local police provided first aid and transported her to a primary healthcare centre in Sawantwadi taluka. Also read: Gold for whale: Giant sea creature makes magical appearance at surfing event during Paris Games Given her condition, she was referred to a more advanced medical facility in Sindhudurg's Oros for further treatment. She had claimed that she had been without food for 40 days and that her husband had abandoned her in the forest after an argument. (With inputs from agencies)

India | American woman found chained to tree, tied herself: Police

Tim Walz, a 60-year-old veteran of the US Army National Guard and former teacher, has been picked as running mate by US Vice President Kamala Harris ahead of the presidential elections.&nbsp;As governor, Walz has promoted a progressive agenda, which features free school meals, climate change goals, tax cuts for the middle class, and extended paid leave for workers in Minnesota. In other news,&nbsp;Lebanon-based&nbsp;militant group Hezbollah launched a major drone attack on two Israeli military targets on Tuesday. Local media reports said at least 19 people were injured in the attack. Also, Bangladesh parliament was dissolved today a day after now-former prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country after resigning.

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Vice President Kamala Harris has announced Minnesota Governor&nbsp;Tim Walz as her running mate for the 2024 US Presidential Elections.

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Tropical Storm Debby, which has triggered flash flood warnings in the US states of South Carolina and Georgia, left five dead in the southeastern United States on Tuesday (August 6).

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Several UK cities witnessed large violent protests over the last week, leading to the arrest of over 400 people and injuries&nbsp;to scores of policemen.

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In Israel, dozens of ultra-Orthodox Jews protesting against the nation's compulsory military service broke into a military base near Tel Aviv on Tuesday (August 6).

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Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina safely arrived in India on Monday (Aug 5) after fleeing her violence-hit nation.

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L K Advani, a prominent veteran Indian politician, was admitted to the hospital on Tuesday (August 6).

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On Tuesday (Aug 6), Neeraj Chopra's 89.34m throw took him to the men's javelin final in the Paris Olympics 2024 edition.&nbsp;

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Tim Walz, a 60-year-old veteran of the US Army National Guard and former teacher, has been picked as running mate by US Vice President Kamala Harris ahead of the presidential elections.

Tim Walz, a 60-year-old veteran of the US Army National Guard and former teacher, has been picked as running mate by US Vice President Kamala Harris ahead of the presidential elections. As governor, Walz has promoted a progressive agenda, which features free school meals, climate change goals, tax cuts for the middle class, and extended paid leave for workers in Minnesota. In other news, Lebanon-based militant group Hezbollah launched a major drone attack on two Israeli military targets on Tuesday. Local media reports said at least 19 people were injured in the attack. Also, Bangladesh parliament was dissolved today a day after now-former prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country after resigning. Click on the headlines to read more Vice President Kamala Harris picks Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate Vice President Kamala Harris has announced Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate for the 2024 US Presidential Elections. Hezbollah targets Israeli military sites in major drone attack, IDF flies jets over Beirut Israeli media reported a large drone attack by Lebanon-based militant group Hezbollah into northern Israel on Tuesday (Aug 6). Bangladesh Parliament dissolved by president; Hasina's rival Zia 'freed' after years of house arrest A day after Bangladesh's now-former prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country after resigning, the nation's president on Tuesday (August 6) dissolved the parliament. Tropical Storm Debby kills five including two teenagers, moves through US southeast Tropical Storm Debby, which has triggered flash flood warnings in the US states of South Carolina and Georgia, left five dead in the southeastern United States on Tuesday (August 6). UK violence: 400 arrested, man assaulted in Belfast hate crime; police attacked with petrol bombs Several UK cities witnessed large violent protests over the last week, leading to the arrest of over 400 people and injuries to scores of policemen. Dozens of ultra-orthodox Jews break into Israel's Tel Hashomer army base to protest against conscription In Israel, dozens of ultra-Orthodox Jews protesting against the nation's compulsory military service broke into a military base near Tel Aviv on Tuesday (August 6). How Rafale jets and NSA Doval ensured Hasina’s security after she fled Bangladesh Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina safely arrived in India on Monday (Aug 5) after fleeing her violence-hit nation. LK Advani's health scare: BJP stalwart hospitalised again, condition stable L K Advani, a prominent veteran Indian politician, was admitted to the hospital on Tuesday (August 6). Paris Olympics: Without dropping a sweat! Neeraj Chopra enters men's javelin final with 89.34m throw - Watch On Tuesday (Aug 6), Neeraj Chopra's 89.34m throw took him to the men's javelin final in the Paris Olympics 2024 edition. Halsey suffered a miscarriage during a concert: ‘I was just 20, had to wear adult diaper’ Halsey went through what most girls would describe as "the worst nightmare for someone in their 20s" and she is candidly speaking about it.

Top 10 world news: Kamala Harris picks her running mate; Hezbollah targets IDF sites, and more

National Commission for Women (NCW) chairperson Rekha Sharma's tenure ended on Tuesday.

Sharma, 60, assumed the charge of the NCW chairperson on August 7, 2018.

"Today marks the final day of my nine-year tenure as the chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW). These nine years have been like a roller coaster ride for me. Coming from a humble background to finishing three terms in the NCW is a long way I have walked," she told reporters.

Watch |&nbsp;S Jaishankar on Bangladesh Crisis: 'Bulk of Indian students have returned'

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She has been associated with the NCW as a member since August 2015 and held the additional charge as the chairperson from September 29, 2017, before becoming its chief in 2018.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-advices-its-citizens-to-exercise-caution-amid-riots-in-the-uk-747720">India advises its citizens to 'exercise caution' amid riots, violent protests in UK</a>

Sharma has been a vocal advocate of gender sensitisation of the police personnel since they are the first point of contact for the victims. Sharma courted many controversies in her tenure with the latest one being the alleged non-action in Manipur.

She was also often blamed for not taking action in non-BJP-ruled states but she strongly denied the allegation.&nbsp;

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.

National Commission for Women (NCW) chairperson Rekha Sharma's tenure ended on Tuesday. Sharma, 60, assumed the charge of the NCW chairperson on August 7, 2018. "Today marks the final day of my nine-year tenure as the chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW).

National Commission for Women (NCW) chairperson Rekha Sharma's tenure ended on Tuesday. Sharma, 60, assumed the charge of the NCW chairperson on August 7, 2018. "Today marks the final day of my nine-year tenure as the chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW). These nine years have been like a roller coaster ride for me. Coming from a humble background to finishing three terms in the NCW is a long way I have walked," she told reporters. Watch | S Jaishankar on Bangladesh Crisis: 'Bulk of Indian students have returned' × She has been associated with the NCW as a member since August 2015 and held the additional charge as the chairperson from September 29, 2017, before becoming its chief in 2018. Also read: India advises its citizens to 'exercise caution' amid riots, violent protests in UK Sharma has been a vocal advocate of gender sensitisation of the police personnel since they are the first point of contact for the victims. Sharma courted many controversies in her tenure with the latest one being the alleged non-action in Manipur. She was also often blamed for not taking action in non-BJP-ruled states but she strongly denied the allegation. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India: Rekha Sharma steps down after nine-year tenure as NCW chairperson

In connection with the land-for-job fraud case, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday (Aug 6) filed a supplementary chargesheet naming Lalu Prasad Yadav, the former Indian minister of railways, his son Tejashwi, and other individuals.

The&nbsp;supplementary chargesheet has named 11 suspects and includes 96 supporting documents. According to news agency ANI, the court has scheduled a review of the chargesheet and documents on August 13.

The case concerns the time when Lalu served as the railway minister in the UPA-led&nbsp;government. Allegedly, many people were assigned to Group "D" jobs in different Indian Railways zones between 2004 and 2009.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/deeply-concerned-jaishankar-to-rajya-sabha-on-state-of-bangladesh-minorities-after-sheikh-hasinas-exit-747668">'Deeply concerned': Jaishankar on state of minorities in Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina’s exit</a>

The people allegedly gave Prasad's family members and a related business, A K Infosystems Private Limited, ownership of their land in exchange for these positions.

The ED has previously said that A K Infosystems Private Limited is a "beneficiary company" in the case, and its registered address in New Friends Colony, South Delhi, was used by Tejashwi Yadav.

Watch |&nbsp;Bangladesh Violence: A day after Hasina's ouster, former PM's son speaks to WION

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Katyal, described by the agency as a "close associate" of the Yadav family, is listed as a director of this company. Furthermore, A B Exports Pvt Ltd, owned by Tejashwi Yadav and Chanda Yadav, is alleged to be a "shell" or fake company, also registered at the same bungalow in New Friends Colony.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lk-advani-veteran-bjp-leader-hospitalised-in-condition-stable-reports-747685">LK Advani's health scare: BJP stalwart hospitalised, condition stable</a>

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has accused Rabri Devi and Hema Yadav of "illegally" obtaining four pieces of land from railway appointees and later selling them to Meridian Construction India Ltd, a company linked to former RJD MLA Syed Abu Dojana, according to news agency PTI.

The ED stated that the "proceeds of crime" from this sale were moved through a series of transactions to A B Exports Pvt Ltd and Bhagirathi Tubes. The agency alleged, "Rabri Devi and Hema Yadav sold these land parcels for Rs 3.5 crore against the acquisition cost of Rs 7.5 lakh, thus deriving huge gains."

In the charge sheet, the agency has asked the court to prosecute the accused for money laundering and to confiscate the assets that were previously attached in this case. The money laundering case, filed under the criminal sections of the PMLA, stems from a complaint by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which has already submitted a charge sheet in this matter.

(With inputs from agencies)

In connection with the land-for-job fraud case, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday (Aug 6) filed a supplementary chargesheet naming Lalu Prasad Yadav, the former Indian minister of railways, his son Tejashwi, and other individuals.

In connection with the land-for-job fraud case, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday (Aug 6) filed a supplementary chargesheet naming Lalu Prasad Yadav, the former Indian minister of railways, his son Tejashwi, and other individuals. The supplementary chargesheet has named 11 suspects and includes 96 supporting documents. According to news agency ANI, the court has scheduled a review of the chargesheet and documents on August 13. The case concerns the time when Lalu served as the railway minister in the UPA-led government. Allegedly, many people were assigned to Group "D" jobs in different Indian Railways zones between 2004 and 2009. Also read: 'Deeply concerned': Jaishankar on state of minorities in Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina’s exit The people allegedly gave Prasad's family members and a related business, A K Infosystems Private Limited, ownership of their land in exchange for these positions. The ED has previously said that A K Infosystems Private Limited is a "beneficiary company" in the case, and its registered address in New Friends Colony, South Delhi, was used by Tejashwi Yadav. Watch | Bangladesh Violence: A day after Hasina's ouster, former PM's son speaks to WION × Katyal, described by the agency as a "close associate" of the Yadav family, is listed as a director of this company. Furthermore, A B Exports Pvt Ltd, owned by Tejashwi Yadav and Chanda Yadav, is alleged to be a "shell" or fake company, also registered at the same bungalow in New Friends Colony. Also read: LK Advani's health scare: BJP stalwart hospitalised, condition stable The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has accused Rabri Devi and Hema Yadav of "illegally" obtaining four pieces of land from railway appointees and later selling them to Meridian Construction India Ltd, a company linked to former RJD MLA Syed Abu Dojana, according to news agency PTI. The ED stated that the "proceeds of crime" from this sale were moved through a series of transactions to A B Exports Pvt Ltd and Bhagirathi Tubes. The agency alleged, "Rabri Devi and Hema Yadav sold these land parcels for Rs 3.5 crore against the acquisition cost of Rs 7.5 lakh, thus deriving huge gains." In the charge sheet, the agency has asked the court to prosecute the accused for money laundering and to confiscate the assets that were previously attached in this case. The money laundering case, filed under the criminal sections of the PMLA, stems from a complaint by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which has already submitted a charge sheet in this matter. (With inputs from agencies)

India: ED files chargesheet in Lalu Prasad's land-for-job case, 11 suspects named

Concerns have been voiced by the All Local Cable Operator Association (ALCOA) in the Indian capital, New Delhi, on how JIO TV's live broadcasting may affect their business.&nbsp;

They argue that the cable TV industry is suffering major financial losses and employment reductions as a result of JIO TV's live and linear content broadcasting on its OTT platform.

JIO TV's conduct is not compliant with current regulations, according to a letter from ALCOA to the Chairman of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).&nbsp;

ALCOA states that only IPTV providers, Direct-to-Home (DTH) players, Multi-System Operators (MSOs), and Headend in the Sky (HITS) operators should transmit live content. They also claimed that streaming linear material is against the Cable Act of 1995 and should not be allowed on OTT services such as JIO TV.

The letter notes that the number of homes with televisions in India rose from 197 million in 2018 to 210 million in 2020. Even with this increase, the number of households with cable TV services fell from 120 million in 2018 to 90 million in 2020, and the decline has persisted.

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According to ALCOA, broadcasters including INDIACAST and STAR INDIA Pvt. Ltd. transmit linear content on their respective OTT platforms, JIO TV and Disney + Hotstar.&nbsp;

Due to this practice, consumers are switching from cable TV to OTT platforms, which are more affordable and superior, especially for young people, housewives, and students.

Additionally, ALCOA noted that the cable TV sector is unfairly competing with OTT platforms, which frequently offer major networks at no additional cost. They highlighted the harmful social effects caused by the unchecked spread of content on these platforms.

(With inputs from agencies)

Concerns have been voiced by the All Local Cable Operator Association (ALCOA) in the Indian capital, New Delhi, on how JIO TV's live broadcasting may affect their business.

Concerns have been voiced by the All Local Cable Operator Association (ALCOA) in the Indian capital, New Delhi, on how JIO TV's live broadcasting may affect their business. They argue that the cable TV industry is suffering major financial losses and employment reductions as a result of JIO TV's live and linear content broadcasting on its OTT platform. JIO TV's conduct is not compliant with current regulations, according to a letter from ALCOA to the Chairman of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). ALCOA states that only IPTV providers, Direct-to-Home (DTH) players, Multi-System Operators (MSOs), and Headend in the Sky (HITS) operators should transmit live content. They also claimed that streaming linear material is against the Cable Act of 1995 and should not be allowed on OTT services such as JIO TV. The letter notes that the number of homes with televisions in India rose from 197 million in 2018 to 210 million in 2020. Even with this increase, the number of households with cable TV services fell from 120 million in 2018 to 90 million in 2020, and the decline has persisted. Also read: Kerala forest officials rescue 6 tribals, including 4 kids after Wayanad landslides in 8-hour mission According to ALCOA, broadcasters including INDIACAST and STAR INDIA Pvt. Ltd. transmit linear content on their respective OTT platforms, JIO TV and Disney + Hotstar. Due to this practice, consumers are switching from cable TV to OTT platforms, which are more affordable and superior, especially for young people, housewives, and students. Additionally, ALCOA noted that the cable TV sector is unfairly competing with OTT platforms, which frequently offer major networks at no additional cost. They highlighted the harmful social effects caused by the unchecked spread of content on these platforms. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi cable operators challenge JIO TV's live streaming: Impact on local businesses

A 29-year-old woman was dramatically rescued by locals after falling into a 100-foot-deep gorge in India's Maharashtra on Saturday (August 3) evening. The incident occurred in Satara district's Borne Ghat, reportedly while the woman, identified as Nasreen, was taking a selfie with friends.&nbsp;

The woman, as per reports, sustained injuries and was subsequently admitted to a local hospital.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:164,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1850}">Dramatic rescue</h2>

Videos circulating on social media show Home Guards and local residents working together to pull Nasreen to safety.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assam-cm-announces-new-laws-to-combat-love-jihad-protect-indigenous-rights-747108">Assam CM announces new laws to combat 'love jihad', protect indigenous rights</a>

The footage shows rescuers throwing a thick rope down the gorge, with one man descending to lift the injured woman to safety. The clip has since gone viral, drawing widespread attention.

In the viral video, a home guard can be seen rescuing the terrified woman, and towards the end of the clip, mountaineers assist in pulling her to safety.&nbsp;

Watch it here:

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<div bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:116,&quot;y&quot;:388,&quot;w&quot;:505,&quot;h&quot;:177,&quot;abs_x&quot;:149,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2074}" class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:121,&quot;y&quot;:388,&quot;w&quot;:495,&quot;h&quot;:177,&quot;abs_x&quot;:154,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2074}" class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:193,&quot;y&quot;:429,&quot;w&quot;:80,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:226,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2115}" href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a> <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:276,&quot;y&quot;:429,&quot;w&quot;:45,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:309,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2115}" href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Satara?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Satara</a> के उनघर रोड की बोर्ने घाट में गिरी एक युवती के रेस्क्यू का सनसनीखेज़ वीडियो सामने आया..सेल्फी लेने के दौरान युवती का पैर फिसला और घाट में गिर गई..100 फीट गहरे घाट में गिरी युवती को रस्सी से रेस्क्यू कर बाहर निकाला गया..3 अगस्त शाम की घटना<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:497,&quot;y&quot;:481,&quot;w&quot;:81,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:530,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2167}" href="https://twitter.com/indiatvnews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@indiatvnews</a> <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:300,&quot;y&quot;:496,&quot;w&quot;:173,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:333,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2182}" href="https://t.co/GXdDJmxmsm">pic.twitter.com/GXdDJmxmsm</a>
— Atul singh (@atuljmd123) <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:431,&quot;y&quot;:524,&quot;w&quot;:87,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:464,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2210}" href="https://twitter.com/atuljmd123/status/1819949767574553061?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Conflicting reports have emerged about the circumstances leading to the fall. Initial accounts suggest Nasreen slipped while taking a selfie.

Nasreen, a resident of Pune, was visiting Borne Ghat near the Thoseghar waterfalls with friends when the accident happened. The Times of India reported that she fell into a 100-foot-deep gorge.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bloody-hands-and-more-vandals-target-anne-frank-statue-in-amsterdam-with-free-gaza-slogan-747097">Bloody hands and more: Vandals target Anne Frank statue in Amsterdam with 'Free Gaza' slogan</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:711,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2397}">Risky selfies</h2>

This incident follows a tragic event a few weeks earlier when 26-year-old Instagram influencer Aanvi Kamdar fell to her death near Kumbhe waterfall in Raigad while filming a video. The local authorities issued an advisory urging travellers to avoid risky behaviour&nbsp;during such explorations.

Recently, there have been a number of accidents in Maharashtra involving falls into gorges. In June, a woman died after her car fell into a 300-foot gorge near the Dutt Dham Temple hill. In July, influencer Aanvi Kamdar fell into a 300-foot gorge while recording a video near Kumbhe waterfall.

Authorities continue to stress the importance of caution and safety, especially, during the monsoon season when terrains can be particularly hazardous.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 29-year-old woman was dramatically rescued by locals after falling into a 100-foot-deep gorge in India's Maharashtra on Saturday (August 3) evening. The incident occurred in Satara district's Borne Ghat, reportedly while the woman, identified as Nasreen, was taking a selfie with friends.

A 29-year-old woman was dramatically rescued by locals after falling into a 100-foot-deep gorge in India's Maharashtra on Saturday (August 3) evening. The incident occurred in Satara district's Borne Ghat, reportedly while the woman, identified as Nasreen, was taking a selfie with friends. The woman, as per reports, sustained injuries and was subsequently admitted to a local hospital. Dramatic rescue Videos circulating on social media show Home Guards and local residents working together to pull Nasreen to safety. Also read | Assam CM announces new laws to combat 'love jihad', protect indigenous rights The footage shows rescuers throwing a thick rope down the gorge, with one man descending to lift the injured woman to safety. The clip has since gone viral, drawing widespread attention. In the viral video, a home guard can be seen rescuing the terrified woman, and towards the end of the clip, mountaineers assist in pulling her to safety. Watch it here: #Maharashtra #Satara के उनघर रोड की बोर्ने घाट में गिरी एक युवती के रेस्क्यू का सनसनीखेज़ वीडियो सामने आया..सेल्फी लेने के दौरान युवती का पैर फिसला और घाट में गिर गई..100 फीट गहरे घाट में गिरी युवती को रस्सी से रेस्क्यू कर बाहर निकाला गया..3 अगस्त शाम की घटना@indiatvnews pic.twitter.com/GXdDJmxmsm — Atul singh (@atuljmd123) August 4, 2024 × Conflicting reports have emerged about the circumstances leading to the fall. Initial accounts suggest Nasreen slipped while taking a selfie. Nasreen, a resident of Pune, was visiting Borne Ghat near the Thoseghar waterfalls with friends when the accident happened. The Times of India reported that she fell into a 100-foot-deep gorge. Also read | Bloody hands and more: Vandals target Anne Frank statue in Amsterdam with 'Free Gaza' slogan Risky selfies This incident follows a tragic event a few weeks earlier when 26-year-old Instagram influencer Aanvi Kamdar fell to her death near Kumbhe waterfall in Raigad while filming a video. The local authorities issued an advisory urging travellers to avoid risky behaviour during such explorations. Recently, there have been a number of accidents in Maharashtra involving falls into gorges. In June, a woman died after her car fell into a 300-foot gorge near the Dutt Dham Temple hill. In July, influencer Aanvi Kamdar fell into a 300-foot gorge while recording a video near Kumbhe waterfall. Authorities continue to stress the importance of caution and safety, especially, during the monsoon season when terrains can be particularly hazardous. (With inputs from agencies)

Woman taking selfie falls into 100-foot gorge, rescued by locals in India's Maharashtra. Watch!

The mother of a 12-year-old girl, who was reportedly gangraped in Ayodhya, claims that local Samajwadi Party members pressured her to drop the complaint against Moid Khan, a party official, by offering her money.

As per an India Today report, the mother stated that Mohammed Rashid, SP's Bhadarsa Nagar Panchayat chairperson, offered her money to “settle the case”.

Meanwhile, Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit on Sunday (Aug&nbsp;4) came to the defence of Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, whose call for a DNA test for the two men accused of raping a 12-year-old girl in Ayodhya stirred a fresh controversy.

Dikshit told PTI, “What Akhilesh Yadav is asking for, the DNA tests, have been used in similar cases before to confirm the identity of the accused or when there are suspicions from the police or administration.”

On Saturday, Yadav had called for a DNA test for the two men accused of the crime. He stated, "Without a DNA test in the Bhadarsa case of Ayodhya, BJP's allegation will be considered biased."

On Sunday, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) delegation, headed by Rajya Sabha MP Baburam Nishad, visited the family of the rape survivor in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. After the visit, Nishad said, "We spoke to the victim's mother and we will submit our report to the national leadership. Our Uttar Pradesh government is not going to spare the accused who committed this crime."

He also remarked, "Akhilesh Yadav talks about DNA testing. He talks about PDA but he cannot see&nbsp;and hear the pain of this daughter (victim). The government will take such action against them (accused) that many generations will remember it. I request CM Yogi Adityanath to increase the financial amount of Rs 5 lakh to Rs 25 lakh."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-government-set-to-bring-bill-to-keep-unfettered-powers-of-waqf-board-in-check-746992">Indian government set to bring bill to keep 'unfettered' powers of Waqf Board in check</a>

BJP leaders, including Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, have claimed that Moid Khan, who operates a bakery in Bhadarsa Nagar under the Purakalandar police station area, is affiliated with the Samajwadi Party and works with Faizabad MP Awadhesh Prasad.

Deputy Chief Minister Maurya commented on 'X' in Hindi, stating, "It is the Samajwadi Party's inherent trait to shield rapists."&nbsp;

<h2>What is the incident?</h2>

On July 30, Ayodhya police arrested Moid Khan and his employee Raju Khan for allegedly raping a minor two months ago and recording the incident. The crime was discovered after a recent medical examination revealed that the victim was pregnant.

The Ayodhya gang rape case has taken a political turn, as it is being alleged said that Moid Khan is a member of the Samajwadi Party. Byelections will be held for 10 Assembly seats in Uttar Pradesh, including Milkipur in Ayodhya, which was vacated by SP's Awadhesh Prasad after he won Lok Sabha seat. The dates for the by-elections haven't been decided yet.

(With inputs from agencies)

The mother of a 12-year-old girl, who was reportedly gangraped in Ayodhya, claims that local Samajwadi Party members pressured her to drop the complaint against Moid Khan, a party official, by offering her money.

The mother of a 12-year-old girl, who was reportedly gangraped in Ayodhya, claims that local Samajwadi Party members pressured her to drop the complaint against Moid Khan, a party official, by offering her money. As per an India Today report, the mother stated that Mohammed Rashid, SP's Bhadarsa Nagar Panchayat chairperson, offered her money to “settle the case”. Meanwhile, Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit on Sunday (Aug 4) came to the defence of Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, whose call for a DNA test for the two men accused of raping a 12-year-old girl in Ayodhya stirred a fresh controversy. Dikshit told PTI, “What Akhilesh Yadav is asking for, the DNA tests, have been used in similar cases before to confirm the identity of the accused or when there are suspicions from the police or administration.” On Saturday, Yadav had called for a DNA test for the two men accused of the crime. He stated, "Without a DNA test in the Bhadarsa case of Ayodhya, BJP's allegation will be considered biased." On Sunday, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) delegation, headed by Rajya Sabha MP Baburam Nishad, visited the family of the rape survivor in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. After the visit, Nishad said, "We spoke to the victim's mother and we will submit our report to the national leadership. Our Uttar Pradesh government is not going to spare the accused who committed this crime." He also remarked, "Akhilesh Yadav talks about DNA testing. He talks about PDA but he cannot see and hear the pain of this daughter (victim). The government will take such action against them (accused) that many generations will remember it. I request CM Yogi Adityanath to increase the financial amount of Rs 5 lakh to Rs 25 lakh." Also read: Indian government set to bring bill to keep 'unfettered' powers of Waqf Board in check BJP leaders, including Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, have claimed that Moid Khan, who operates a bakery in Bhadarsa Nagar under the Purakalandar police station area, is affiliated with the Samajwadi Party and works with Faizabad MP Awadhesh Prasad. Deputy Chief Minister Maurya commented on 'X' in Hindi, stating, "It is the Samajwadi Party's inherent trait to shield rapists." What is the incident? On July 30, Ayodhya police arrested Moid Khan and his employee Raju Khan for allegedly raping a minor two months ago and recording the incident. The crime was discovered after a recent medical examination revealed that the victim was pregnant. The Ayodhya gang rape case has taken a political turn, as it is being alleged said that Moid Khan is a member of the Samajwadi Party. Byelections will be held for 10 Assembly seats in Uttar Pradesh, including Milkipur in Ayodhya, which was vacated by SP's Awadhesh Prasad after he won Lok Sabha seat. The dates for the by-elections haven't been decided yet. (With inputs from agencies)

Ayodhya rape case: Survivor’s mother claims Samajwadi Party leaders told her to drop complaint, offered money

Nine children were killed and two others sustained&nbsp;injuries&nbsp;on Sunday (Aug&nbsp;4) in Madhya Pradesh's&nbsp;Sagar after a wall collapsed on them following incessant rains.

Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Mohan Yadav, has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of the nine children who were fatally trapped under debris.&nbsp;

The tragic accident comes just a day after six children died in two separate incidents of wall collapse in Rewa&nbsp;and Narsinghpur districts of the state.&nbsp;

According to officials, the incident occurred around 8.30 am, with initial reports suggesting the collapse was caused by the heavy downpour last night.

Yadav further instructed the district administration to provide financial assistance to all the affected families.

Additionally, Minister Govind Rajput said that the administration is working actively on the issue. He further added that the CM has announced financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh to the family of the deceased and Rs 1 lakh to the injured.

Watch |&nbsp;Video: Woman on bike harassed by men on flooded road in Lucknow; 4 arrested

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Speaking to ANI, Rajput said, "The administration is actively working. We are all present here. The CM has announced financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh for the family of the deceased and Rs 1 lakh for those injured," he said.

Further, he added, "I have asked the District Collector of Sagar to work in this regard to prevent such incidents from happening again. We will be taking preventive measures." Upon receiving information, senior officials and district administration authorities reached the spot.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-rape-case-cong-leader-supports-akhilesh-yadavs-dna-test-call-bjp-leaders-visit-victims-family-747053">Ayodhya rape case: Cong leader supports Akhilesh Yadav's DNA test call; BJP leaders visit victims' family</a>

District Collector Deepak Arya confirmed that local police and rescue teams reached the spot and started a rescue operation.

"Nine children have died in the incident. Two others have been taken to a nearby hospital for treatment," Arya said. Earlier, four students died after an old wall of a house next to a private school collapsed due to rain in Madhya Pradesh's Rewa, said police.

The tragic incident took place on Saturday when five students, including a woman, got trapped under the wall, said police. The police and rescue teams immediately started the rescue operation after receiving information, said the official.

One student and a woman were safely evacuated and hospitalised, said the police, adding that they are currently undergoing treatment.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Nine children were killed and two others sustained injuries on Sunday (Aug 4) in Madhya Pradesh's Sagar after a wall collapsed on them following incessant rains.

Nine children were killed and two others sustained injuries on Sunday (Aug 4) in Madhya Pradesh's Sagar after a wall collapsed on them following incessant rains. Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Mohan Yadav, has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of the nine children who were fatally trapped under debris. The tragic accident comes just a day after six children died in two separate incidents of wall collapse in Rewa and Narsinghpur districts of the state. According to officials, the incident occurred around 8.30 am, with initial reports suggesting the collapse was caused by the heavy downpour last night. Yadav further instructed the district administration to provide financial assistance to all the affected families. Additionally, Minister Govind Rajput said that the administration is working actively on the issue. He further added that the CM has announced financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh to the family of the deceased and Rs 1 lakh to the injured. Watch | Video: Woman on bike harassed by men on flooded road in Lucknow; 4 arrested × Speaking to ANI, Rajput said, "The administration is actively working. We are all present here. The CM has announced financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh for the family of the deceased and Rs 1 lakh for those injured," he said. Further, he added, "I have asked the District Collector of Sagar to work in this regard to prevent such incidents from happening again. We will be taking preventive measures." Upon receiving information, senior officials and district administration authorities reached the spot. Also read: Ayodhya rape case: Cong leader supports Akhilesh Yadav's DNA test call; BJP leaders visit victims' family District Collector Deepak Arya confirmed that local police and rescue teams reached the spot and started a rescue operation. "Nine children have died in the incident. Two others have been taken to a nearby hospital for treatment," Arya said. Earlier, four students died after an old wall of a house next to a private school collapsed due to rain in Madhya Pradesh's Rewa, said police. The tragic incident took place on Saturday when five students, including a woman, got trapped under the wall, said police. The police and rescue teams immediately started the rescue operation after receiving information, said the official. One student and a woman were safely evacuated and hospitalised, said the police, adding that they are currently undergoing treatment. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Wall collapse kills 9 children  in Madhya Pradesh’s Sagar; CM Mohan Yadav expresses grief

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