<p>A female police constable was raped by her neighbour in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh's Kanpur while she was on her way home to celebrate Karwa Chauth.</p>

<p>According to the police, the accused Dharmendra Paswan, aka Kallu (34), offered the woman a lift on his motorcycle when she was walking home, however, he instead took her to an isolated area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After she agreed to the lift, Paswan diverted his vehicle towards an isolated spot near a tube well. The woman got suspicious and tried to stop him. He then forcibly overpowered her and allegedly raped her.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police constable had come to Kanpur for the Karwa Chauth rituals.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/horror-from-indias-up-student-in-hathras-killed-to-bring-success-to-school-heres-what-happened-762476"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Horror from India's UP: Student in Hathras killed to bring success to school. Here's what happened</strong></a></p>

<p>Joint Commissioner of Police Harish Chander said that the constable fought back during the assault, biting the accused's finger before managing to escape. She immediately reported the crime at a nearby police outpost.</p>

<p>In order to save himself, Paswan reported his vehicle as stolen at another police station. However, the woman identified him when he was brought in for questioning for alleged theft.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Wolves terrorise residents, killing 8 people in Uttar Pradesh</strong></p>

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<p>Shortly after that, the police arrested him and charged him under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including rape and criminal intimidation.</p>

<p>Paswan has been sent to judicial custody for 14 days while further investigations are underway.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such kinds of cases have been increasing for years now. The Uttar Pradesh government has reported significant progress in prosecuting crimes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the UP government, "Over the past seven and a half years, the Directorate has successfully prosecuted over 80,000 criminals in the state."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In addition, 54 criminals received the death penalty, in cases involving women, 28,700 criminals were punished for serious offences, including sexual assault and crimes under the POCSO Act, as stated in government's official record," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A female police constable was raped by her neighbour in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh's Kanpur while she was on her way home to celebrate Karwa Chauth. According to the police, the accused Dharmendra Paswan, aka Kallu (34), offered the woman a lift on his motorcycle when she was walking home, however, he instead took her to an isolated area.

A female police constable was raped by her neighbour in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh's Kanpur while she was on her way home to celebrate Karwa Chauth. According to the police, the accused Dharmendra Paswan, aka Kallu (34), offered the woman a lift on his motorcycle when she was walking home, however, he instead took her to an isolated area. After she agreed to the lift, Paswan diverted his vehicle towards an isolated spot near a tube well. The woman got suspicious and tried to stop him. He then forcibly overpowered her and allegedly raped her. The police constable had come to Kanpur for the Karwa Chauth rituals. Also read: Horror from India's UP: Student in Hathras killed to bring success to school. Here's what happened Joint Commissioner of Police Harish Chander said that the constable fought back during the assault, biting the accused's finger before managing to escape. She immediately reported the crime at a nearby police outpost. In order to save himself, Paswan reported his vehicle as stolen at another police station. However, the woman identified him when he was brought in for questioning for alleged theft. Watch | Wolves terrorise residents, killing 8 people in Uttar Pradesh × Shortly after that, the police arrested him and charged him under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including rape and criminal intimidation. Paswan has been sent to judicial custody for 14 days while further investigations are underway. Such kinds of cases have been increasing for years now. The Uttar Pradesh government has reported significant progress in prosecuting crimes. According to the UP government, "Over the past seven and a half years, the Directorate has successfully prosecuted over 80,000 criminals in the state." "In addition, 54 criminals received the death penalty, in cases involving women, 28,700 criminals were punished for serious offences, including sexual assault and crimes under the POCSO Act, as stated in government's official record," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

UP woman cop raped by neighbour who offered lift on Karwa Chauth in Kanpur

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Oct 22) after arriving&nbsp;in Kazan, Russia to attend the BRICS Summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two leaders were seen sharing a hug as they met.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As they met, President Putin emphasised that the ties between India and Russia are like that you don't require translation.&nbsp;He further thanked PM Modi for visiting Kazan and attending BRICS and also&nbsp;recalled his meeting with PM Modi in July.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-departs-to-attend-brics-summit-in-russia-769673"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Indian PM Narendra Modi lands in Russia, to attend BRICS Summit</strong></a></p>

<p>"I remember we met in July and had a very good discussion on several issues. We also spoke on the telephone a lot of times. I am very grateful to you for accepting the invitation to come to Kazan. Today, we will participate in the opening ceremony of the BRICS Summit and after that, we will have a dinner. During the upcoming BRICS Summit today with other leaders, we should take some very important decisions...," Putin said.</p>

<p>The Russian president highlighted that the projects with India are constantly developing, adding that both nations' cooperation will benefit from Indian policies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The next meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission is scheduled for 12 December in New Delhi. Our projects are constantly developing. You have decided to open the Indian Consulate in Kazan. We welcome this. Our cooperation will benefit from the policies of India. We are very happy to see you and your delegation in Russia," said Putin</p>

<p>Meanwhile, PM Modi expressed "heartfelt gratitude" to&nbsp;President Putin&nbsp;for the&nbsp;welcome in Kazan. He said that opening a consulate in Kazan would strengthen the&nbsp;relationship between New Delhi and Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I express my heartfelt gratitude for your friendship, warm welcome and hospitality. It is a matter of great pleasure for me to have the opportunity to visit a beautiful city like Kazan for the BRICS Summit. India has deep and historical ties with this city. The opening of India's new consulate in Kazan will further strengthen these ties," Modi&nbsp;said during his meeting with Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking about the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, PM Modi said that India will play 'any role'&nbsp;for peace between Moscow and Kyiv, adding that&nbsp;he has been in constant touch with the Russian President on the subject.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As I have said earlier, we believe that the problems should be resolved in a peaceful manner. We fully support the early establishment of peace and stability. All our efforts give priority to humanity. India is ready to provide all possible cooperation in the times to come," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;BRICS Summit: BRICS Not Anti-West, Says Putin</strong></p>

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<p>On Tuesday, PM Modi arrived in Russia to attend the 16th BRICS Summit. He is also scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with other leaders of the BRICS member nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This year, Russia holds the chairmanship of the summit that is taking place from October 22 to October 24. The theme for the summit is “Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security”.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Oct 22) after arriving in Kazan, Russia to attend the BRICS Summit. The two leaders were seen sharing a hug as they met.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Oct 22) after arriving in Kazan, Russia to attend the BRICS Summit. The two leaders were seen sharing a hug as they met. As they met, President Putin emphasised that the ties between India and Russia are like that you don't require translation. He further thanked PM Modi for visiting Kazan and attending BRICS and also recalled his meeting with PM Modi in July. Also read: Indian PM Narendra Modi lands in Russia, to attend BRICS Summit "I remember we met in July and had a very good discussion on several issues. We also spoke on the telephone a lot of times. I am very grateful to you for accepting the invitation to come to Kazan. Today, we will participate in the opening ceremony of the BRICS Summit and after that, we will have a dinner. During the upcoming BRICS Summit today with other leaders, we should take some very important decisions...," Putin said. The Russian president highlighted that the projects with India are constantly developing, adding that both nations' cooperation will benefit from Indian policies. "The next meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission is scheduled for 12 December in New Delhi. Our projects are constantly developing. You have decided to open the Indian Consulate in Kazan. We welcome this. Our cooperation will benefit from the policies of India. We are very happy to see you and your delegation in Russia," said Putin Meanwhile, PM Modi expressed "heartfelt gratitude" to President Putin for the welcome in Kazan. He said that opening a consulate in Kazan would strengthen the relationship between New Delhi and Moscow. "I express my heartfelt gratitude for your friendship, warm welcome and hospitality. It is a matter of great pleasure for me to have the opportunity to visit a beautiful city like Kazan for the BRICS Summit. India has deep and historical ties with this city. The opening of India's new consulate in Kazan will further strengthen these ties," Modi said during his meeting with Putin. Speaking about the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, PM Modi said that India will play 'any role' for peace between Moscow and Kyiv, adding that he has been in constant touch with the Russian President on the subject. "As I have said earlier, we believe that the problems should be resolved in a peaceful manner. We fully support the early establishment of peace and stability. All our efforts give priority to humanity. India is ready to provide all possible cooperation in the times to come," he said. Watch | BRICS Summit: BRICS Not Anti-West, Says Putin × On Tuesday, PM Modi arrived in Russia to attend the 16th BRICS Summit. He is also scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with other leaders of the BRICS member nations. This year, Russia holds the chairmanship of the summit that is taking place from October 22 to October 24. The theme for the summit is “Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security”. (With inputs from agencies)

BRICS Summit: PM Modi shares hug with Putin, says will play 'any role' for peace between Russia-Ukraine

The BRICS Summit 2024 will bring together the leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa to discuss key global issues and enhance cooperation among these major emerging economies. WION's Principal Diplomatic correspondent speaks to India's Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar gives details of PM Modi's upcoming Russia visit & speaks on importance of India-Russia ties. Watch in for more details! Watch in for more details!

BRICS Summit 2024: Indian Envoy To Russia Vinay Kumar Speaks On Importance Of BRICS | WION Exclusive

Ahead of a potential meeting between Indian PM Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, India and China have reached an agreement on patrolling along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Watch in this report for more details!

India, China Agree To Patrolling Along LAC 'leading To Disengagement'

Seven people, including locals, non-locals, and a doctor, working at the construction site of a key infrastructure project, were killed and a few others were injured in a terrorist attack at Gagangir in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday evening (Oct 20), just days after an elected government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah came to power in the Union Territory. Watch in for more details!

7 Killed In Terror Attack On Civilians In J&K; Forces Launch Cordon & Search Ops

The IMF has encouraged world finance leaders to tighten their fiscal belts before they meet in Washington over the next few days. With the world's recent inflation crisis behind them and two weeks before a possibly historic US Election, ministers and central bankers gathered in the nation's capital face mounting pressure to organise their fiscal homes while they can. Take a look at this next report for more...

IMF Urges Debt Reduction As Finance Chiefs Meet In Washington

An Indian High Commissioner to Canada Sanjay Kumar Varma who has now been recalled by New Delhi has accused Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of wrecking bilateral ties with India. Watch in for more details!

India-Canada Diplomatic Row: Indian Envoy Slams Trudeau Government

In India the BJP government is leveling some serious allegations against Former CM of Delhi Arvind Kejriwal. The BJP is claiming massive public spending on luxury items for his official Bungalow including a missing high tech toilet seat. Watch to know more details.

India: BJP Accuses Kejriwal Of Extravagance |

The protesting doctors in the Indian state of West Bengal have agreed to meet the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday but refused to end the indefinite hunger strike. The doctors are demanding systemic reforms and thorough investigation in the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor in the state. Watch in for more details!

Kolkata Rape & Murder Case: Protesting Doctors To Meet West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee

India-Canada Diplomatic Row: Trudeau Wrecked Ties With India: Indian Envoy To CTV

Ahead of a potential meeting between PM Modi and Chinese President breaking news is coming in that the India and China has reached an agreement on patrolling along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) . This is according to Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.

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Breaking News: Indian Envoy to CTV: Trudeau Wrecked Ties With India

Indian Envoy to CTV: Trudeau Wrecked Ties With India

North India celebrated Karwa Chauth, Women broke their day long fast after sighting moon. Watch the visuals of how people celebrated.

India: Women Break Day-long Fast After Sighting Moon

India's central bank governor Shaktikanta das said an interest rate cut at this stage would be "Very, very risky." He added the Reserve Bank of India is in no hurry to join the wave of easing by global policymakers.

RBI Governor Calls Rate Cut Risky For Economy

A new study has identified a possible link between COVID-19 infection and a raised risk for stroke and heart attack. Watch to know more.

Covid-19 May Increase Heart Attack And Stroke Risk For Years

<p>The opposition INDIA alliance will contest the upcoming assembly elections in the Indian state of Jharkhand together, Chief Minister Hemant Soren announced on Saturday (Oct 19), adding that his Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and the Congress will contest 70 of 81 seats in the state assembly.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"INDIA bloc will contest the Jharkhand Assembly polls together. It has been decided that 70 seats in the state will be contested by the JMM and Congress. The rest of the seats will be discussed further," Soren said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We can't go into the details of the seat-sharing right now. Our alliance partner is not here right now. When they are here, we will finalise the number of seats and other details," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The seat-sharing talks are underway with other alliance partners, including&nbsp;Rashtriya Janata Dal&nbsp;(RJD) and Left parties, for the remaining 11 segments.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>BJP announces first list of 66 candidates&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) announced its first list of 66 candidates for the upcoming Jharkhand polls, with party fielding its state president Babulal Marandi from Dhanwar and former chief minister Champai Soren from Saraikela.</p>

<p>Jharkhand will be voting in two phases on November 13 and 20. Votes will be counted on November 23.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-poll-body-eci-announces-dates-for-maharashtra-jharkhand-assembly-elections-767677"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;India: Poll body ECI announces dates for Maharashtra, Jharkhand Assembly elections</strong></a></p>

<p>In the last assembly elections, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha as part of the UPA (United Progressive Alliance) contested for 43 seats, Congress (31) and the RJD had seven seats in the 81-member assembly.</p>

<p>The JMM however, is expected to increase its share because it believes that Hemant Soren is a key face in Jharkhand and the grand alliance will get votes on his name, the party said.</p>

<p>Jharkhand minister and Congress leader Banna Gupta said that the INDIA alliance is doing its work smoothly and people will vote to continue the ruling coalition government in the state.</p>

<p>"Our in charge, (state) president, CLP leader together sat down with INDIA Alliance team. Everything has become very systematic. There is no 'if or but' anywhere. INDIA Alliance is doing its work smoothly. We say this very confidently that the people of Jharkhand will give a chance once again to the INDIA Alliance government led by Hemant Soren," Gupta&nbsp;said.</p>

<h2><strong>RJD expressed discontent over seat-sharing&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) expressed discontent over the seat sharing with its INDIA bloc allies Congress and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) for the Jharkhand assembly elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We have come before you for a special reason. You can see that our entire leadership is here at the request of our leader of opposition Tejashwi ji. We had a meeting this morning and it was decided in that meeting that the strength of votes and the mass base is in favor of RJD,” party MP Manoj Jha said as per&nbsp;news agency ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Election Date 2024: Maharashtra To Go To Polls On Nov 20, Jharkhand To Vote On Nov 13, 20</strong></p>

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<p>“For example, let me tell you that last time we fought on 7 seats because Lalu ji had a big heart, his goal was to oust the BJP, and the goal is the same even today, we were runner-up on 5 seats. The rest of our alliance partners may not have been runners-up in percentage terms on that many seats...A unilateral decision was taken,” the RJD minister&nbsp;claimed.</p>

<p>“Our presence in different districts is very strong, we will urge our alliance partners to take a decision accordingly. Our in-charge is here, our state president is here and since yesterday our leader of opposition Tejashwi ji himself is here...Despite everyone being there, if you did not involve us in the process of allying, then it is painfully...In the meeting that we had today, we have identified 15 to 18 such seats in different districts where we are probably capable of defeating the BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party)&nbsp;even alone,” Gupta added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“All options open for us. All decisions cannot be taken instantly like '2 minutes' noodles,” Indian news agency PTI quoted Jha as saying.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Congress leader Pawan Khera,&nbsp;when asked about RJD's displeasure over seat sharing, told ANI, "There is no resentment or displeasure from anyone."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The opposition INDIA alliance will contest the upcoming assembly elections in the Indian state of Jharkhand together, Chief Minister Hemant Soren announced on Saturday (Oct 19), adding that his Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and the Congress will contest 70 of 81 seats in the state assembly.

The opposition INDIA alliance will contest the upcoming assembly elections in the Indian state of Jharkhand together, Chief Minister Hemant Soren announced on Saturday (Oct 19), adding that his Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and the Congress will contest 70 of 81 seats in the state assembly. "INDIA bloc will contest the Jharkhand Assembly polls together. It has been decided that 70 seats in the state will be contested by the JMM and Congress. The rest of the seats will be discussed further," Soren said. "We can't go into the details of the seat-sharing right now. Our alliance partner is not here right now. When they are here, we will finalise the number of seats and other details," he added. The seat-sharing talks are underway with other alliance partners, including Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Left parties, for the remaining 11 segments. BJP announces first list of 66 candidates The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) announced its first list of 66 candidates for the upcoming Jharkhand polls, with party fielding its state president Babulal Marandi from Dhanwar and former chief minister Champai Soren from Saraikela. Jharkhand will be voting in two phases on November 13 and 20. Votes will be counted on November 23. Also read: India: Poll body ECI announces dates for Maharashtra, Jharkhand Assembly elections In the last assembly elections, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha as part of the UPA (United Progressive Alliance) contested for 43 seats, Congress (31) and the RJD had seven seats in the 81-member assembly. The JMM however, is expected to increase its share because it believes that Hemant Soren is a key face in Jharkhand and the grand alliance will get votes on his name, the party said. Jharkhand minister and Congress leader Banna Gupta said that the INDIA alliance is doing its work smoothly and people will vote to continue the ruling coalition government in the state. "Our in charge, (state) president, CLP leader together sat down with INDIA Alliance team. Everything has become very systematic. There is no 'if or but' anywhere. INDIA Alliance is doing its work smoothly. We say this very confidently that the people of Jharkhand will give a chance once again to the INDIA Alliance government led by Hemant Soren," Gupta said. RJD expressed discontent over seat-sharing The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) expressed discontent over the seat sharing with its INDIA bloc allies Congress and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) for the Jharkhand assembly elections. “We have come before you for a special reason. You can see that our entire leadership is here at the request of our leader of opposition Tejashwi ji. We had a meeting this morning and it was decided in that meeting that the strength of votes and the mass base is in favor of RJD,” party MP Manoj Jha said as per news agency ANI. Watch | Election Date 2024: Maharashtra To Go To Polls On Nov 20, Jharkhand To Vote On Nov 13, 20 × “For example, let me tell you that last time we fought on 7 seats because Lalu ji had a big heart, his goal was to oust the BJP, and the goal is the same even today, we were runner-up on 5 seats. The rest of our alliance partners may not have been runners-up in percentage terms on that many seats...A unilateral decision was taken,” the RJD minister claimed. “Our presence in different districts is very strong, we will urge our alliance partners to take a decision accordingly. Our in-charge is here, our state president is here and since yesterday our leader of opposition Tejashwi ji himself is here...Despite everyone being there, if you did not involve us in the process of allying, then it is painfully...In the meeting that we had today, we have identified 15 to 18 such seats in different districts where we are probably capable of defeating the BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) even alone,” Gupta added. “All options open for us. All decisions cannot be taken instantly like '2 minutes' noodles,” Indian news agency PTI quoted Jha as saying. Meanwhile, Congress leader Pawan Khera, when asked about RJD's displeasure over seat sharing, told ANI, "There is no resentment or displeasure from anyone." (With inputs from agencies)

INDIA bloc to fight Jharkhand elections together, JMM-Congress to contest 70 of 81 seats: CM Hemant Soren

Floods wreak havoc across southern India's biggest cities. Why is it raining so heavily again and again and why are the civic authorities not prepared to tackle the crisis.

South India Floods: Bengaluru and Chennai Hit Again

The 19th edition of the Delhi Half Marathon is on Sunday, October 20, 2024! This prestigious World Athletics Gold Label Road Race features top runners, including double Olympic gold medalist Joshua Cheptegei and 2022 Commonwealth Games silver medalist Eilish McColgan. But it’s more than just a race! Supporting the #RunForZeroHunger movement, Vedanta, the title sponsor, will donate one meal for each kilometer run, helping to combat malnutrition in India. Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Director of Vedanta Limited, joined WION's Shibasish Nandi to discuss this noble initiative.

Delhi to 'Run For Zero Hunger' On October 20

Many Indian airlines are receiving bomb threats. After allegedly receiving a bomb threat, a Vistara flight from Delhi headed for London was rerouted to Frankfurt, Germany, on Friday.

Hoax Bomb Threats Impact Several Indian Flights

Terror and trade cannot go hand in hand. Neighbourliness cannot mean aggression. That's the message Indian External affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar gave to Pakistan and China at the SCO Council of Heads of Government Meeting in Islamabad. No names taken but the word was loud and clear. The first story on Inside South Asia focuses on this landmark summit, with an India-Pakistan interaction giving it an added dimension.

Jaishankar Visits Pak for SCO

On Wings, we cover the Kumbh Mela, as preparations in full swing for the largest gathering of humanity on the planet. We highlight the improving Australia-India relationship with a new Working Holiday Visa that has become available for Indians. And our country in focus for the week, is Albania in the Balkans. Only on WION, World is One.

Preparations for Kumbh Mela - Wings S3 Ep51

The festive season and onset of cooler weather in Northern India brings with it the pain of air pollution. The Air Quality Index has started to worsen and there's more bad news in store ahead. Smoke from crop residue burning, pollution from traffic and more turn into a nightmare for the capital. The first phase of a Graded Response Action Plan has kicked-in in Delhi to battle the problems that arise.

Delhi Enters Bad Air Days

<p>Amid the ongoing diplomatic row between India and Canada, the Canadian government’s Foreign Interference Commission in a report highlighted the Indian media outlets and their massive reach in the context of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the Khalistani separatist leader who Ottawa has accused New Delhi's agents&nbsp;of killing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report stated that the Indian media, especially those outlets perceived as being aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi – highlighted several narratives that targeted Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Canada's High Commissioner to India, Canada's national security agencies, Canada's Punjabi Sikh diaspora, and Nijjar's political beliefs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report by the Canada's Foreign Interference Commission was published in September this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The report examined websites and US-based social media platforms to surface relevant English language content to assess potential &nbsp;Foreign Information Manipulations and Interference (FIMI) related to India, honing in on a set of 100 accounts across Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube that are frequently described as 'Godi'&nbsp;media (i.e., media outlets or personalities that are perceived as mouthpieces for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and current Indian Prime Minister Nerandra Modi)," it stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The media outlets backed by PM Modi are quite popular with domestic Indian audiences as well as the diaspora communities abroad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"For example, some outlets have more than 10 million YouTube subscribers, including AajTak/lndia Today (80 million), Zee News/WION (68 million), News 18 (50.8 million), Republic (31.7 million), and Times Now (10.9 million)," the report mentioned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While defending its stance, the report stressed that Canada's low subscriber numbers of media outlets in comparison with Indian media create a "distinct advantage" in "amplifying negative narratives" about Canada and its position on Nijjar's killing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is very likely that both Canadian and global audiences who follow international news events were exposed to Modi-aligned narratives, themes, and stories on social media platforms," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report questioned the credibility of user engagement of the Indian media outlets, calling them out, and stressing that they have "little reason to believe that user views have been amplified."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"AajTak, Zee News, and Republic shared several talk-show style clips on their YouTube channels<br />
about the PM Statement and Hardeep Singh Nijjar, receiving between 50K to IM user views per video. Regrettably, YouTube provides few public tools to verify whether user engagement is authentic or manipulated. RRM Canada, however, has little reason to believe that user views have been amplified," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Narratives shared about Indian media's involvement&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The report quoted Indian media agencies portraying "Canadian diplomats as haughty".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In a popular post from ANI, High Commissioner Cameron MacKay leaves the Ministry of External Affairs building without taking questions from a reporter on the scene. Some commentators claim MacKay may have injured the journalist as he closed the embassy vehicle car door. The video received high levels of engagement (16.3K likes, shares, etc.) and was viewed over 2.1M times," the report stated.</p>

<p>According to the report, some of the commentators made direct pleas to Canadian parliamentarians to "eliminate alleged threats to the Indian state".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The founder of the fringe 'The Frustrated Indian'&nbsp;media outlet, tagged Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre on Twitter, requesting that he neutralise the Khalistanis immediately after becoming the Prime Minister because if you don't, you won't have a country. All the best in advance," the report read.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Five Questions for India Hater Trudeau</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;some of the claims by the Indian media, as per the report,&nbsp;also stated that PM Trudeau is "inventing the incident to score political gains" and "satisfying the constituents who support the Khalistan movement". The commentators claimed the incident was a "brazen local political gimmick" at the cost of "assaulting another nation's sovereignty," the report read.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Hardeep Singh Nijjar's case explained&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In June 2023, Khalistani separatist leader Nijjar was shot and killed by two masked individuals outside a Gurudwara in Surrey. Later in September, Canadian PM Trudeau blamed India and said that there were "credible allegations" of a "potential link" between agents of India's government and Nijjar's murder.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the Indian government rejected these allegations as "absurd" and "motivated" and alleged Canada was a supporter of Khalistani "terrorists".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Further, Trudeau clarified, saying that he was not trying to "provoke" or "escalate" the conflict, adding that Canada sought cooperation with India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rapid Response Mechanism Canada stated that its analysts will continue to observe the information space for new developments on this topic.</p>

<h2><strong>What's currently happening?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this week, on Wednesday (Oct 16) while testifying before the Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference in Federal Electoral Processes and Democratic Institutions in Ottawa, Trudeau had admitted that his government did not have hard evidence against India when the allegations about New Delhi’s involvement in Nijjar's death were made.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nijjar-was-a-foreign-terrorist-top-opposition-figure-in-canada-rips-into-trudeau-over-india-row-768529"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;‘Nijjar was a foreign terrorist,’ Top opposition figure in Canada rips into Trudeau over India row</strong></a></p>

<p>"Canada asked India to cooperate. Their (India) ask was for proof. We asked for Indian security agencies to investigate further and cooperate with us. Because at that point what we (Canada) had was intelligence," Trudeau said.</p>

<p>"Their [Indian government] ask was how much do you know? Give us the evidence you have on this and our response was well...it's within your security agencies, you should be looking into how much they know. You should be engaging," the Canadian PM said.</p>

<p>"At that point, it was primarily intelligence and not hard evidentiary proof. So we said, let's work together and look into your security services and maybe we can get that out," he added.</p>

<p>Hours after Trudeau's testimony,&nbsp;the Indian foreign affairs ministry blasted the Canadian PM calling out his "cavalier attitude", and said, "What we have heard today only confirms what we have been saying consistently all along — Canada has presented us (India) no evidence whatsoever in support of the serious allegations that it has chosen to level against India and Indian diplomats."</p>

<p>"The responsibility for the damage that this cavalier behaviour has caused to India-Canada relations lies with Prime Minister Trudeau alone," the statement added.&nbsp;</p>


Amid the ongoing diplomatic row between India and Canada, the Canadian government’s Foreign Interference Commission in a report highlighted the Indian media outlets and their massive reach in the context of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the Khalistani separatist leader who Ottawa has accused New Delhi's agents of killing.

Amid the ongoing diplomatic row between India and Canada, the Canadian government’s Foreign Interference Commission in a report highlighted the Indian media outlets and their massive reach in the context of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the Khalistani separatist leader who Ottawa has accused New Delhi's agents of killing. The report stated that the Indian media, especially those outlets perceived as being aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi – highlighted several narratives that targeted Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Canada's High Commissioner to India, Canada's national security agencies, Canada's Punjabi Sikh diaspora, and Nijjar's political beliefs. The report by the Canada's Foreign Interference Commission was published in September this year. "The report examined websites and US-based social media platforms to surface relevant English language content to assess potential Foreign Information Manipulations and Interference (FIMI) related to India, honing in on a set of 100 accounts across Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube that are frequently described as 'Godi' media (i.e., media outlets or personalities that are perceived as mouthpieces for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and current Indian Prime Minister Nerandra Modi)," it stated. The media outlets backed by PM Modi are quite popular with domestic Indian audiences as well as the diaspora communities abroad. "For example, some outlets have more than 10 million YouTube subscribers, including AajTak/lndia Today (80 million), Zee News/WION (68 million), News 18 (50.8 million), Republic (31.7 million), and Times Now (10.9 million)," the report mentioned. While defending its stance, the report stressed that Canada's low subscriber numbers of media outlets in comparison with Indian media create a "distinct advantage" in "amplifying negative narratives" about Canada and its position on Nijjar's killing. "It is very likely that both Canadian and global audiences who follow international news events were exposed to Modi-aligned narratives, themes, and stories on social media platforms," it added. The report questioned the credibility of user engagement of the Indian media outlets, calling them out, and stressing that they have "little reason to believe that user views have been amplified." "AajTak, Zee News, and Republic shared several talk-show style clips on their YouTube channels about the PM Statement and Hardeep Singh Nijjar, receiving between 50K to IM user views per video. Regrettably, YouTube provides few public tools to verify whether user engagement is authentic or manipulated. RRM Canada, however, has little reason to believe that user views have been amplified," it added. Narratives shared about Indian media's involvement The report quoted Indian media agencies portraying "Canadian diplomats as haughty". "In a popular post from ANI, High Commissioner Cameron MacKay leaves the Ministry of External Affairs building without taking questions from a reporter on the scene. Some commentators claim MacKay may have injured the journalist as he closed the embassy vehicle car door. The video received high levels of engagement (16.3K likes, shares, etc.) and was viewed over 2.1M times," the report stated. According to the report, some of the commentators made direct pleas to Canadian parliamentarians to "eliminate alleged threats to the Indian state". "The founder of the fringe 'The Frustrated Indian' media outlet, tagged Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre on Twitter, requesting that he neutralise the Khalistanis immediately after becoming the Prime Minister because if you don't, you won't have a country. All the best in advance," the report read. Watch | Five Questions for India Hater Trudeau × Meanwhile, some of the claims by the Indian media, as per the report, also stated that PM Trudeau is "inventing the incident to score political gains" and "satisfying the constituents who support the Khalistan movement". The commentators claimed the incident was a "brazen local political gimmick" at the cost of "assaulting another nation's sovereignty," the report read. Hardeep Singh Nijjar's case explained In June 2023, Khalistani separatist leader Nijjar was shot and killed by two masked individuals outside a Gurudwara in Surrey. Later in September, Canadian PM Trudeau blamed India and said that there were "credible allegations" of a "potential link" between agents of India's government and Nijjar's murder. However, the Indian government rejected these allegations as "absurd" and "motivated" and alleged Canada was a supporter of Khalistani "terrorists". Further, Trudeau clarified, saying that he was not trying to "provoke" or "escalate" the conflict, adding that Canada sought cooperation with India. Rapid Response Mechanism Canada stated that its analysts will continue to observe the information space for new developments on this topic. What's currently happening? Earlier this week, on Wednesday (Oct 16) while testifying before the Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference in Federal Electoral Processes and Democratic Institutions in Ottawa, Trudeau had admitted that his government did not have hard evidence against India when the allegations about New Delhi’s involvement in Nijjar's death were made. Also read: ‘Nijjar was a foreign terrorist,’ Top opposition figure in Canada rips into Trudeau over India row "Canada asked India to cooperate. Their (India) ask was for proof. We asked for Indian security agencies to investigate further and cooperate with us. Because at that point what we (Canada) had was intelligence," Trudeau said. "Their [Indian government] ask was how much do you know? Give us the evidence you have on this and our response was well...it's within your security agencies, you should be looking into how much they know. You should be engaging," the Canadian PM said. "At that point, it was primarily intelligence and not hard evidentiary proof. So we said, let's work together and look into your security services and maybe we can get that out," he added. Hours after Trudeau's testimony, the Indian foreign affairs ministry blasted the Canadian PM calling out his "cavalier attitude", and said, "What we have heard today only confirms what we have been saying consistently all along — Canada has presented us (India) no evidence whatsoever in support of the serious allegations that it has chosen to level against India and Indian diplomats." "The responsibility for the damage that this cavalier behaviour has caused to India-Canada relations lies with Prime Minister Trudeau alone," the statement added.

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