Pope Francis died at the age of 88 on Monday (April 21). The Vatican confirmed in a video statement on Monday (April 21). His death comes after a 12-year papacy. 
In January, Pope Francis had claimed that he escaped two attempts on his life during his historic visit to Iraq in 2021. He made this claim in his autobiography.&nbsp;
On Tuesday (Dec 17), Italian media published an excerpt from the autobiography titled "Hope" which talked about Pope Francis being targeted. The autobiography is due to be released on January 14.&nbsp;
<h2>The attempts on Pope's life</h2>
Pope Francis, who turned 88 on Tuesday, said that during his visit to Iraq, "A woman packed with explosives, a young suicide bomber, was heading towards Mosul to blow herself up during the papal visit."
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"And a van had also set off at great speed with the same intention," he added. According to Italian media, two attackers were intercepted and killed by the Iraqi police.
Pope's historic visit to Iraq in March 2021 lasted for three days. At that time, this was&nbsp;Francis's first trip in 15 months and took place in the middle of the Covid pandemic.
<h2>'Almost everyone advised me against Iraq visit'</h2>
The excerpt from the pope's biography further revealed that "almost everyone advised me" against the visit to Iraq, "but I wanted to get to the bottom of things. I felt I had to do it."
Also watch | Pope elevates 21 new cardinals
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During his trips abroad, the pope's security is taken care of by the Pontifical Swiss Guard and the Vatican Gendarmerie, in collaboration with local law enforcement.
(With inputs from agencies)

During his trips abroad, the pope's security is taken care of by the Pontifical Swiss Guard and the Vatican Gendarmerie, in collaboration with local law enforcement.

Pope Francis died at the age of 88 on Monday (April 21). The Vatican confirmed in a video statement on Monday (April 21). His death comes after a 12-year papacy. In January, Pope Francis had claimed that he escaped two attempts on his life during his historic visit to Iraq in 2021. He made this claim in his autobiography. On Tuesday (Dec 17), Italian media published an excerpt from the autobiography titled "Hope" which talked about Pope Francis being targeted. The autobiography is due to be released on January 14. The attempts on Pope's life Pope Francis, who turned 88 on Tuesday, said that during his visit to Iraq, "A woman packed with explosives, a young suicide bomber, was heading towards Mosul to blow herself up during the papal visit." Also read | Pope Francis, for the first time, labels Israel's actions in Gaza as 'genocide'; calls for investigation "And a van had also set off at great speed with the same intention," he added. According to Italian media, two attackers were intercepted and killed by the Iraqi police. Pope's historic visit to Iraq in March 2021 lasted for three days. At that time, this was Francis's first trip in 15 months and took place in the middle of the Covid pandemic. 'Almost everyone advised me against Iraq visit' The excerpt from the pope's biography further revealed that "almost everyone advised me" against the visit to Iraq, "but I wanted to get to the bottom of things. I felt I had to do it." Also watch | Pope elevates 21 new cardinals During his trips abroad, the pope's security is taken care of by the Pontifical Swiss Guard and the Vatican Gendarmerie, in collaboration with local law enforcement. (With inputs from agencies)

When Pope Francis escaped two attempts on his life during 2021 Iraq visit

Edited by Moohita Kaur Garg
&nbsp;
Amid the tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Islamabad on Tuesday (Dec 24) launched overnight airstrikes, targeting suspected Taliban hideouts.
The strike successfully dismantled a training facility and killed some insurgents, said Pakistan security officials, as per a PTI report.
At least six explosions have been reported at the Pakistan Taliban camp, sources told WION's Pakistan bureau chief Anas Mallick.
Four big TTP camps have been destroyed, sources said, adding Taliban commanders Sher Zaman alias Mukhlis Yar, Akhtar Muhammad alias Khalil, Azhar alias Hamza, Shoaib Cheema were killed. The office of Umar Media has also been destroyed.
The total death toll is yet to be officially confirmed, but sources said it stands somewhere between 25 and 30.&nbsp;
<h2>What areas were targeted?</h2>
Citing anonymous security sources, the PTI news agency reported that Taliban bases near the border, in Afghanistan's Barmal district of Paktika Province, were targeted. However, it is not clear if the jets went deep inside Afghanistan or how exactly they were launched.
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Pakistan is yet to launch an official statement on the said airstrikes.
However, Afghanistan, in a statement, has strongly condemned the strikes and has labelled them a "cowardly act".
<h2>Afghanistan slams Pakistan</h2>
In a statement, the Afghan Defence Ministry said, "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan considers this a brutal act against all international principles and blatant aggression and strongly condemns it".
The nation alleged that the bombing was targeted at civilians, including women and children. It also claimed that all of those killed in Pakistan's strikes were refugees from the Waziristan region.
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It also said that "The Islamic Emirate will not leave this cowardly act unanswered but considers the defence of its territory to be its inalienable right".
Locals, according to reports, have said that at least eight people, including women and children, were killed in the airstrike.
<h2>Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions&nbsp;</h2>
Islamabad often claims that the Pakistan Taliban uses the neighbouring nation's soil to launch attacks on Pakistan. However, Kabul vehemently denies the charge.
These are the second such strikes since March 2024. Previously, Pakistan reported that it had carried out an intelligence-based attack in the border areas inside Afghanistan.
The new strikes came just hours after Mohammad Sadiq, Pakistan's special representative for Afghanistan, travelled to Kabul. There, he met with Sirajuddin Haqqani, Afghanistan's acting interior minister and "held wide-ranging discussions."
"Agreed to work together to further strengthen bilateral cooperation as well as for peace and progress in the region," he added in a post on X.
He also conveyed his condolences over the December 11 killing of his uncle Khalil Haqqani.&nbsp;
(With inputs taken from agencies)&nbsp;

At least six explosions have been reported at the Pakistan Taliban camp, sources told WION's Pakistan bureau chief Anas Mallick



Edited by Moohita Kaur Garg Amid the tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Islamabad on Tuesday (Dec 24) launched overnight airstrikes, targeting suspected Taliban hideouts. The strike successfully dismantled a training facility and killed some insurgents, said Pakistan security officials, as per a PTI report. At least six explosions have been reported at the Pakistan Taliban camp, sources told WION's Pakistan bureau chief Anas Mallick. Four big TTP camps have been destroyed, sources said, adding Taliban commanders Sher Zaman alias Mukhlis Yar, Akhtar Muhammad alias Khalil, Azhar alias Hamza, Shoaib Cheema were killed. The office of Umar Media has also been destroyed. The total death toll is yet to be officially confirmed, but sources said it stands somewhere between 25 and 30. What areas were targeted? Citing anonymous security sources, the PTI news agency reported that Taliban bases near the border, in Afghanistan's Barmal district of Paktika Province, were targeted. However, it is not clear if the jets went deep inside Afghanistan or how exactly they were launched. Also read | Pakistan military courts convict 25 Imran Khan supporters over 2023 unrest Pakistan is yet to launch an official statement on the said airstrikes. However, Afghanistan, in a statement, has strongly condemned the strikes and has labelled them a "cowardly act". Afghanistan slams Pakistan In a statement, the Afghan Defence Ministry said, "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan considers this a brutal act against all international principles and blatant aggression and strongly condemns it". The nation alleged that the bombing was targeted at civilians, including women and children. It also claimed that all of those killed in Pakistan's strikes were refugees from the Waziristan region. Also read | Pakistan government forms negotiation committee to hold talks with Imran Khan's PTI party It also said that "The Islamic Emirate will not leave this cowardly act unanswered but considers the defence of its territory to be its inalienable right". Locals, according to reports, have said that at least eight people, including women and children, were killed in the airstrike. Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions Islamabad often claims that the Pakistan Taliban uses the neighbouring nation's soil to launch attacks on Pakistan. However, Kabul vehemently denies the charge. These are the second such strikes since March 2024. Previously, Pakistan reported that it had carried out an intelligence-based attack in the border areas inside Afghanistan. The new strikes came just hours after Mohammad Sadiq, Pakistan's special representative for Afghanistan, travelled to Kabul. There, he met with Sirajuddin Haqqani, Afghanistan's acting interior minister and "held wide-ranging discussions." "Agreed to work together to further strengthen bilateral cooperation as well as for peace and progress in the region," he added in a post on X. He also conveyed his condolences over the December 11 killing of his uncle Khalil Haqqani. (With inputs taken from agencies)

Pakistan launches overnight airstrike on Afghanistan, targets Taliban hideouts

California, United States
Researchers from the California Institute of Technology have quantified the speed of the human brain at which it processes information, revealing we may not be as sharp as we might think. The study has opened new avenues of exploration for neuroscience.
The study has revealed that the speed of human thought is just 10 bits per second, much less than what we’d like to imagine. Our brain processes thoughts one at a time, making it a slow and crowded queue.
This new information is in contrast to the way the peripheral nervous system functions, processing gigabits of sensory data in a second, raising many questions for scientists.
The research led by neurobiologist Jieyu Zheng was conducted in the laboratory of Markus Meister and published in the journal Neuron on December 17.
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“This is an extremely low number,” Meister says. “Every moment, we are extracting just 10 bits from the trillion that our senses are taking in and using those 10 to perceive the world around us and make decisions. This raises a paradox: What is the brain doing to filter all of this information?”
Zheng and Meister have highlighted in their published paper that despite the richness in our mind’s eye, photographic memory, and unconscious processing, the brain really does operate at a sluggish pace, which rarely goes above 10 bits a second.
According to the researchers, the brain processes at just under 12 bits a second while solving a Rubik’s cube blindfolded and around 10 bits while playing a strategy video game. 
“The current understanding is not commensurate with the enormous processing resources available, and we have seen no viable proposal for what would create a neural bottleneck that forces single-strand operation,” the authors write.
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With over 85 billion neurons in the brain that form trillions of connections, allowing us to feel and think, why each of them can’t process collectively at a faster speed is not known.
“Our ancestors have chosen an ecological niche where the world is slow enough to make survival possible,” Zheng and Meister write. “In fact, the 10 bits per second are needed only in worst-case situations, and most of the time our environment changes at a much more leisurely pace.”
Scientists have suggested developing an interface that can link brains and computers for humans to communicate faster than the normal pace of speaking or typing, the new study has shown that our brains can only communicate at the same speed of 10 bits per second.
(With inputs from agencies)

The new information is in contrast to the way the peripheral nervous system functions, processing gigabits of sensory data in a second, raising many questions for scientists



California, United States Researchers from the California Institute of Technology have quantified the speed of the human brain at which it processes information, revealing we may not be as sharp as we might think. The study has opened new avenues of exploration for neuroscience. The study has revealed that the speed of human thought is just 10 bits per second, much less than what we’d like to imagine. Our brain processes thoughts one at a time, making it a slow and crowded queue. This new information is in contrast to the way the peripheral nervous system functions, processing gigabits of sensory data in a second, raising many questions for scientists. The research led by neurobiologist Jieyu Zheng was conducted in the laboratory of Markus Meister and published in the journal Neuron on December 17. Also read | Having your tonsils removed as a child may increase the risk of stress disorders: Study “This is an extremely low number,” Meister says. “Every moment, we are extracting just 10 bits from the trillion that our senses are taking in and using those 10 to perceive the world around us and make decisions. This raises a paradox: What is the brain doing to filter all of this information?” Zheng and Meister have highlighted in their published paper that despite the richness in our mind’s eye, photographic memory, and unconscious processing, the brain really does operate at a sluggish pace, which rarely goes above 10 bits a second. According to the researchers, the brain processes at just under 12 bits a second while solving a Rubik’s cube blindfolded and around 10 bits while playing a strategy video game. “The current understanding is not commensurate with the enormous processing resources available, and we have seen no viable proposal for what would create a neural bottleneck that forces single-strand operation,” the authors write. Also read | Ageing a thing of the past? New study finds 70 is the new 60 because... With over 85 billion neurons in the brain that form trillions of connections, allowing us to feel and think, why each of them can’t process collectively at a faster speed is not known. “Our ancestors have chosen an ecological niche where the world is slow enough to make survival possible,” Zheng and Meister write. “In fact, the 10 bits per second are needed only in worst-case situations, and most of the time our environment changes at a much more leisurely pace.” Scientists have suggested developing an interface that can link brains and computers for humans to communicate faster than the normal pace of speaking or typing, the new study has shown that our brains can only communicate at the same speed of 10 bits per second. (With inputs from agencies)

Our brain is not as fast as we might think, study reveals speed of human thought

London, United Kingdom: A teen, Grayson Whitaker, from Leeds in the UK, has never in his life sat down with his family to enjoy Christmas dinner as he suffers from a rare condition called 'misophonia'.
<meta>
"I have never had Christmas dinner with my family, so I don't have those nice memories," Grayson said.
This neurological condition triggers extreme emotional reactions to every day sounds like breathing, yawning, sniffing, and chewing. These noises irk Grayson and make him angry, which makes it feel like swallowing a hard pill for him to enjoy Christmas dinner with his family.&nbsp;
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<h2 dir="ltr">A life with struggle&nbsp;</h2>
"I have never had Christmas dinner with my family, so I don&rsquo;t have those nice memories," he told a British tabloid, The Sun. "I&rsquo;d love to be downstairs with them, but the overwhelming rage keeps me away. I don&rsquo;t want to take it out on them," he said.&nbsp;
Although he has tried many treatments, including private therapy and hypnotherapy, seeking a cure remains uncertain.&nbsp;
His parents, Alex, 51, and Dawn, 54, had let go of his reactions at times, considering it childhood frenzy.&nbsp;
"I didn&rsquo;t know how to explain my emotions back then, so they thought I was being a brat," he said. "It wasn&rsquo;t until I started scratching my legs that they realised something was wrong."
"My dad once tried to explain my condition to someone, and they accused me of making it up to get benefits," he said. "That&rsquo;s been one of the hardest things&mdash;people just don&rsquo;t understand."
Watch |&nbsp;Celebrities who've been diagnosed with rare diseases &amp; more
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<h2 dir="ltr">'Misophonia' effects&nbsp;</h2>
&gt; Sounds such as chewing, breathing, sniffing, yawning, and even repetitive noises like pen clicking or keyboard tapping are some of the triggering sounds.&nbsp;
&gt; A soft or low-volume trigger can cause emotional and physical symptoms in an individual who is affected by this.&nbsp;
&gt; The ones who are affected often have difficulty breathing, palpitations, muscle pain, or losing control. It hits in childhood or even adolescence but the extremity varies from one person to another person.&nbsp;
The main cause of this condition is unclear presently, but the researchers feel it involves the abnormal connection between the emotional and auditory processing centres of the brain.&nbsp;
<h2 dir="ltr">Efforts for awareness&nbsp;</h2>
Respective of the fact that the condition is getting recognised, it is clearly not understood well, and there is no standardised treatment for it. However, the management aid is there to control it, like sound therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and the use of noise-cancelling devices used to reduce the triggers.&nbsp;
Grayson comes with the hope that sharing his story will bring great impact to awareness of misophonia, a condition that remains misunderstood.
"I&rsquo;d love to be able to suck it up one day and have Christmas dinner with my family and partner. That would mean everything to me," he said.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

This neurological condition triggers extreme emotional reactions to every day sounds like breathing, yawning, sniffing, and chewing.


London, United Kingdom: A teen, Grayson Whitaker, from Leeds in the UK, has never in his life sat down with his family to enjoy Christmas dinner as he suffers from a rare condition called 'misophonia'. "I have never had Christmas dinner with my family, so I don't have those nice memories," Grayson said. This neurological condition triggers extreme emotional reactions to every day sounds like breathing, yawning, sniffing, and chewing. These noises irk Grayson and make him angry, which makes it feel like swallowing a hard pill for him to enjoy Christmas dinner with his family. Also Read: Rare Disease Day: Challenges in protecting newborns from rare growth-affecting conditions A life with struggle "I have never had Christmas dinner with my family, so I don’t have those nice memories," he told a British tabloid, The Sun. "I’d love to be downstairs with them, but the overwhelming rage keeps me away. I don’t want to take it out on them," he said. Although he has tried many treatments, including private therapy and hypnotherapy, seeking a cure remains uncertain. His parents, Alex, 51, and Dawn, 54, had let go of his reactions at times, considering it childhood frenzy. "I didn’t know how to explain my emotions back then, so they thought I was being a brat," he said. "It wasn’t until I started scratching my legs that they realised something was wrong." "My dad once tried to explain my condition to someone, and they accused me of making it up to get benefits," he said. "That’s been one of the hardest things—people just don’t understand." Watch | Celebrities who've been diagnosed with rare diseases & more 'Misophonia' effects > Sounds such as chewing, breathing, sniffing, yawning, and even repetitive noises like pen clicking or keyboard tapping are some of the triggering sounds. > A soft or low-volume trigger can cause emotional and physical symptoms in an individual who is affected by this. > The ones who are affected often have difficulty breathing, palpitations, muscle pain, or losing control. It hits in childhood or even adolescence but the extremity varies from one person to another person. The main cause of this condition is unclear presently, but the researchers feel it involves the abnormal connection between the emotional and auditory processing centres of the brain. Efforts for awareness Respective of the fact that the condition is getting recognised, it is clearly not understood well, and there is no standardised treatment for it. However, the management aid is there to control it, like sound therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and the use of noise-cancelling devices used to reduce the triggers. Grayson comes with the hope that sharing his story will bring great impact to awareness of misophonia, a condition that remains misunderstood. "I’d love to be able to suck it up one day and have Christmas dinner with my family and partner. That would mean everything to me," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

'I never had Christmas dinner with family', says teenager with rare condition called 'misophonia’

New Delhi: In 2012, it was found that Kepler-52, the Sun-like yellow dwarf star has three exoplanets in its orbit. Each of those exoplanets turned out to be with a density higher than cotton candy. This led to putting them in a category called super puff world.&nbsp;
Now reports came that scientists have found a fourth one in the category.&nbsp;
Jessica Libby-Roberts, a planetary scientist at Pennsylvania State University, said in a statement, "Super puff planets are fairly rare, and when they do occur, they tend to be the only one in a planetary system."&nbsp;
She further reported adding, "If trying to explain how three super puffs formed in one system wasn't challenging enough, now we have to explain a fourth planet, whether it's a super puff or not. And we can't rule out additional planets in the system either."
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It was 2019 when the strange nature of the three exoplanets orbiting Kepler-51 was established and observations were made by astronomers to create measurements of the radii and masses of the exoplanets. The acquired measurements were used to calculate their densities, which were found to be less than 0.1 grams per cubic centimetre.&nbsp;
When a team of astronomers co-led by Libby-Roberts and Kento Masuda of Osaka University set out to catch one of the discovered exoplanets, they found that there might be more exoplanets than do not get caught in the eyes.&nbsp;
The team then further pored out data on transit timings obtained by NASA's planet-hunting telescope TESS, and observations from several ground-based telescopes as well.&nbsp;
After they carefully went back to their data to ensure no errors were made, the conclusion said there was an unseen exoplanet.&nbsp;
The newly found fourth exoplanet will be named Kepler-51e as the other previous found were named Kepler-51b, Kepler-51c, and Kepler-51d.&nbsp;
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Masudsa explained, "We conducted what is called a 'brute force' search, testing out many different combinations of planet properties to find the four-planet model that explains all of the transit data gathered over the past 14 years."&nbsp;
She further said, "We found that the signal is best explained if Kepler-51e has a mass similar to the other three planets and follows a fairly circular orbit of about 264 days &ndash; something we would expect based on other planetary systems. Other possible solutions we found involve a more massive planet on a wider orbit, though we think these are less likely."
(With inputs from agencies)

She further reported adding, "If trying to explain how three super puffs formed in one system wasn't challenging enough, now we have to explain a fourth planet, whether it's a super puff or not. And we can't rule out additional planets in the system either."



New Delhi: In 2012, it was found that Kepler-52, the Sun-like yellow dwarf star has three exoplanets in its orbit. Each of those exoplanets turned out to be with a density higher than cotton candy. This led to putting them in a category called super puff world. Now reports came that scientists have found a fourth one in the category. Jessica Libby-Roberts, a planetary scientist at Pennsylvania State University, said in a statement, "Super puff planets are fairly rare, and when they do occur, they tend to be the only one in a planetary system." She further reported adding, "If trying to explain how three super puffs formed in one system wasn't challenging enough, now we have to explain a fourth planet, whether it's a super puff or not. And we can't rule out additional planets in the system either." Also read | 42 killed as Azerbaijan Airlines plane bursts into flames after emergency landing in Kazakhstan It was 2019 when the strange nature of the three exoplanets orbiting Kepler-51 was established and observations were made by astronomers to create measurements of the radii and masses of the exoplanets. The acquired measurements were used to calculate their densities, which were found to be less than 0.1 grams per cubic centimetre. When a team of astronomers co-led by Libby-Roberts and Kento Masuda of Osaka University set out to catch one of the discovered exoplanets, they found that there might be more exoplanets than do not get caught in the eyes. The team then further pored out data on transit timings obtained by NASA's planet-hunting telescope TESS, and observations from several ground-based telescopes as well. After they carefully went back to their data to ensure no errors were made, the conclusion said there was an unseen exoplanet. The newly found fourth exoplanet will be named Kepler-51e as the other previous found were named Kepler-51b, Kepler-51c, and Kepler-51d. Also read | Afghanistan: Taliban government spokesperson claims 46 killed in Pakistan's overnight strike Masudsa explained, "We conducted what is called a 'brute force' search, testing out many different combinations of planet properties to find the four-planet model that explains all of the transit data gathered over the past 14 years." She further said, "We found that the signal is best explained if Kepler-51e has a mass similar to the other three planets and follows a fairly circular orbit of about 264 days – something we would expect based on other planetary systems. Other possible solutions we found involve a more massive planet on a wider orbit, though we think these are less likely." (With inputs from agencies)

Milky Way's fluffiest system found a new planet

If you thought you were doing more bad than good by indulging in your favourite hot beverage daily? Well, then you&rsquo;re wrong. In a new study by the American Cancer Society, researchers found that people who drink either tea or coffee have a slightly lower risk of head and neck cancer. It is however unclear if both tea and coffee were actually lowering the risk directly.
The data was examined from 14 individual studies. Scientists examined over 9,500 people with head and neck cancers and over 15,00 people without &mdash; from the International Head and Neck Cancer Epidemiology Consortium for their research.
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<h2>What does the study suggest?</h2>
The study found that those who drank less than four cups of caffeinated coffee daily and less than a cup of tea had a 17% and 9% lower chance of developing head or neck cancer overall.
The study also noted that those who drank coffee had a lower chance of developing oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers which basically happen in the middle part of the throat, according to Yale Medicine.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, those who drank less than a cup of tea had a lower chance of developing hypopharyngeal cancer which develops in the bottom part of the throat, per John Hopkins Medicine.&nbsp;
According to the Guardian report, the senior author of the study, Dr Yuan-Chin Amy Lee of Huntsman Cancer Institute and the University of Utah School of Medicine said, &ldquo;While there has been prior research on coffee and tea consumption and reduced risk of cancer, this study highlighted their varying effects with different subsites of head and neck cancer including the observation that even decaffeinated coffee had some positive impact.&rdquo;
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However, this was possible only if they limited the quantity of tea and coffee consumed. The report added that drinking more than a cup of tea daily would have adverse effects on the body and was associated with a higher chance of getting laryngeal cancer &mdash; which forms in the larynx, the part of the throat that controls the vocal cords, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI).&nbsp;
There could be however other factors involved in this like the kind of tea consumed and how it was prepared. There could be other factors that can affect the outcome which could have affected the overall study.&nbsp;

Regular consumption of coffee and tea may offer protective benefits against certain types of cancer. 

If you thought you were doing more bad than good by indulging in your favourite hot beverage daily? Well, then you’re wrong. In a new study by the American Cancer Society, researchers found that people who drink either tea or coffee have a slightly lower risk of head and neck cancer. It is however unclear if both tea and coffee were actually lowering the risk directly. The data was examined from 14 individual studies. Scientists examined over 9,500 people with head and neck cancers and over 15,00 people without — from the International Head and Neck Cancer Epidemiology Consortium for their research. Also read: Breaking down how Atul Kumar re-imagined Mark Haddon’s classic novel for Indian audience What does the study suggest? The study found that those who drank less than four cups of caffeinated coffee daily and less than a cup of tea had a 17% and 9% lower chance of developing head or neck cancer overall. The study also noted that those who drank coffee had a lower chance of developing oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers which basically happen in the middle part of the throat, according to Yale Medicine. Meanwhile, those who drank less than a cup of tea had a lower chance of developing hypopharyngeal cancer which develops in the bottom part of the throat, per John Hopkins Medicine. According to the Guardian report, the senior author of the study, Dr Yuan-Chin Amy Lee of Huntsman Cancer Institute and the University of Utah School of Medicine said, “While there has been prior research on coffee and tea consumption and reduced risk of cancer, this study highlighted their varying effects with different subsites of head and neck cancer including the observation that even decaffeinated coffee had some positive impact.” Also read: Quiet quitters: Why 2024 was the year of burnout? However, this was possible only if they limited the quantity of tea and coffee consumed. The report added that drinking more than a cup of tea daily would have adverse effects on the body and was associated with a higher chance of getting laryngeal cancer — which forms in the larynx, the part of the throat that controls the vocal cords, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI). There could be however other factors involved in this like the kind of tea consumed and how it was prepared. There could be other factors that can affect the outcome which could have affected the overall study.

Drinking tea and coffee can lower the risk of some cancers: Report

At least 21 people have been killed in unrest after Mozambique's top court on Monday confirmed long-ruling party Frelimo's victory in the election, the country's interior minister said late on Tuesday.
The decision by Mozambique's Constitutional Council sparked fresh nationwide protests by opposition groups and their supporters who say the vote was rigged.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-one-child-killed-every-hour-says-unrwa-786720">Gaza: One child killed every hour, says UNRWA</a>
Seventy-eight people have been arrested so far and security measures have been tightened across the country, Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda told public broadcaster TVM. "The armed and defense force will increase its presence in critical and key points," he said.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/denmark-boosts-defence-spending-for-greenland-after-trumps-repeats-call-to-purchase-arctic-territory-786731">Denmark boosts defence spending for Greenland after Trump repeats call to purchase Arctic territory</a>
Frelimo has been repeatedly accused by opponents and election observers of rigging votes. It has denied those accusations.
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.

The decision by Mozambique's Constitutional Council sparked fresh nationwide protests by opposition groups and their supporters who say the vote was rigged.



At least 21 people have been killed in unrest after Mozambique's top court on Monday confirmed long-ruling party Frelimo's victory in the election, the country's interior minister said late on Tuesday. The decision by Mozambique's Constitutional Council sparked fresh nationwide protests by opposition groups and their supporters who say the vote was rigged. Also read | Gaza: One child killed every hour, says UNRWA Seventy-eight people have been arrested so far and security measures have been tightened across the country, Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda told public broadcaster TVM. "The armed and defense force will increase its presence in critical and key points," he said. Also read | Denmark boosts defence spending for Greenland after Trump repeats call to purchase Arctic territory Frelimo has been repeatedly accused by opponents and election observers of rigging votes. It has denied those accusations. 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.

Twenty-one killed in unrest after Mozambique's top court confirms Frelimo's election victory

Melbourne, Australia
Former coach Ravi Shastri has backed India to win the Boxing Day Test, saying the visitors have exploited Australia's "brittle" top order to have their "nose ahead" in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Shastri added that Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is "almost single-handedly" responsible for the visitors keeping the series levelled at 1-1.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-jasprit-bumrah-equals-ravi-ashwins-historic-feat-ahead-of-boxing-day-test-786710">BGT 2024-25: Jasprit Bumrah equals Ravi Ashwin's historic feat ahead of Boxing Day Test</a>
"I think India would take this, the way the series is poised. Any overseas team being 1-1, especially with the games being in Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane, they would take this.
"Going 1-1 into Boxing Day is the best case scenario. I would say India have their nose ahead," Shastri told news.Com.Au.
Australia's top order comprising Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney and Marnus Labuschagne have been unable to score against Bumrah.
It has have forced them to hand a debut to teenage sensation Sam Konstas while dropping rookie opener Nathan McSweeney.
"It's been pretty brittle. When you look at this Australian line-up, it's been a long time since I've seen an Australian line-up where the top order is that brittle. India have exploited that and continue to exploit it,” Shastri said.
All-rounder Mitchell Marsh has also largely struggled for runs. In the last year, Labuschagne, Marsh, Khawaja and Steve Smith all had average less than 30 in Test cricket.
"India is 1-1 in the series and that man (Bumrah) has almost single-handedly got India into that position,” Shastri said.
"As far as Konstas goes, I think he's very refreshing. He's got flair, he's got flamboyance. But Test cricket is Test cricket. His technique will tighten up and he will be the future for Australia." Shastri feels McSweeney was unfortunate to have been axed after just three Tests.
"McSweeney was very unfortunate. He did the hard yards but he's a middle order batsman. I see him travelling to Sri Lanka when the Australian team go there and rebuild his career from there.
"But I think it's a good move getting Konstas in because you need someone who can take the attack to the Indian team, because the punches were coming from nowhere." 
India have won the last two series in Australia and now have the opportunity to become only the third touring side to win three consecutive series Down Under, joining the West Indies (1984/85, 1988/89, 1992/93) and South Africa (2008/09, 2012/13, 2016/17).
"Massive. No team has done that in a long time. Australia hammers sides when they come here. For India to pull off three on the trot will be something special.
"But they'll have to play good cricket. I see Australia coming hard in this Test match, especially with the bowlers. It's the batting that'll be the challenge for Australia more than anything else." Shastri feels India has come to Australia with a strong intent to win.
"India have come here to win, they haven't come here to fill in the numbers. Even when I was the coach, our mantra was to play extremely hard, fair and to win.
"You have to think of a method to beat Australia and not just compete. You've got to plan properly, how to take your 20 wickets. India have done that and been very aggressive.
"They've been in the face of Australia and give as good as they get. It's been entertaining and feisty stuff. The first day of the Boxing Day Test will determine which way the series will go," he added.

Australia's top order comprising Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney and Marnus Labuschagne have been unable to score against Bumrah.



Melbourne, Australia Former coach Ravi Shastri has backed India to win the Boxing Day Test, saying the visitors have exploited Australia's "brittle" top order to have their "nose ahead" in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Shastri added that Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is "almost single-handedly" responsible for the visitors keeping the series levelled at 1-1. Also Read: BGT 2024-25: Jasprit Bumrah equals Ravi Ashwin's historic feat ahead of Boxing Day Test "I think India would take this, the way the series is poised. Any overseas team being 1-1, especially with the games being in Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane, they would take this. "Going 1-1 into Boxing Day is the best case scenario. I would say India have their nose ahead," Shastri told news.Com.Au. Australia's top order comprising Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney and Marnus Labuschagne have been unable to score against Bumrah. It has have forced them to hand a debut to teenage sensation Sam Konstas while dropping rookie opener Nathan McSweeney. "It's been pretty brittle. When you look at this Australian line-up, it's been a long time since I've seen an Australian line-up where the top order is that brittle. India have exploited that and continue to exploit it,” Shastri said. All-rounder Mitchell Marsh has also largely struggled for runs. In the last year, Labuschagne, Marsh, Khawaja and Steve Smith all had average less than 30 in Test cricket. "India is 1-1 in the series and that man (Bumrah) has almost single-handedly got India into that position,” Shastri said. "As far as Konstas goes, I think he's very refreshing. He's got flair, he's got flamboyance. But Test cricket is Test cricket. His technique will tighten up and he will be the future for Australia." Shastri feels McSweeney was unfortunate to have been axed after just three Tests. "McSweeney was very unfortunate. He did the hard yards but he's a middle order batsman. I see him travelling to Sri Lanka when the Australian team go there and rebuild his career from there. "But I think it's a good move getting Konstas in because you need someone who can take the attack to the Indian team, because the punches were coming from nowhere." India have won the last two series in Australia and now have the opportunity to become only the third touring side to win three consecutive series Down Under, joining the West Indies (1984/85, 1988/89, 1992/93) and South Africa (2008/09, 2012/13, 2016/17). "Massive. No team has done that in a long time. Australia hammers sides when they come here. For India to pull off three on the trot will be something special. "But they'll have to play good cricket. I see Australia coming hard in this Test match, especially with the bowlers. It's the batting that'll be the challenge for Australia more than anything else." Shastri feels India has come to Australia with a strong intent to win. "India have come here to win, they haven't come here to fill in the numbers. Even when I was the coach, our mantra was to play extremely hard, fair and to win. "You have to think of a method to beat Australia and not just compete. You've got to plan properly, how to take your 20 wickets. India have done that and been very aggressive. "They've been in the face of Australia and give as good as they get. It's been entertaining and feisty stuff. The first day of the Boxing Day Test will determine which way the series will go," he added.

BGT 2024-25: 'India have their nose ahead,' says former coach Ravi Shastri before Boxing Day Test

New Delhi, India
In an unexpected move, the Delhi government’s senior officers have disowned the registration of two schemes started by Chief Minister Atishi and former chief minister Arvind Kejriwal under the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), highlighting the disagreements between the elected Delhi government and the bureaucracy. This comes after an amendment to the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) Act that placed the services department under the power of the lieutenant governor.
<h2>Departments call the schemes fraudulent</h2>
On Monday (Dec 23), Atishi and Kejriwal launched Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojna, under which non-taxpaying women are eligible to receive Rs 2,100 ($24.59) from the government. The second scheme, Sanjeevani Yojna offers free healthcare benefits for people over the age of 60 years in all Delhi hospitals.
However, both schemes are not yet approved, sparking debate from the centre-ruling BJP, who are accusing AAP of misleading the people of Delhi.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/khalistani-terrorist-pannun-threatens-to-attack-pm-modi-up-cm-yogi-during-maha-kumbh-2025-786716">Khalistani terrorist Pannun threatens to attack PM Modi, UP CM Yogi during Maha Kumbh 2025</a>
Department of Women and Child Development issued a public notice in newspapers stating that no such scheme has been officially declared and warning people not to engage with any individual or political party collecting forms, applications or information for applicants. It further deemed those activities fraudulent.
“The general public are hereby advised and requested not to entertain such promises of a non-existent scheme, as these are misleading and without any authority…,” the statement by Department of Women and Child Development read.
A similar notice was issued by the Health and Family Welfare Department, which also declared the promises fraudulent. It also said that people have started enquiring about the scheme in government hospitals.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-files-writ-petition-in-sc-against-changes-to-election-rules-786695">Congress files writ petition in SC against changes to election rules</a>
<h2>Kejriwal’s response to public notices</h2>
In a post on X, Kejriwal wrote, “These people are rattled by the Mahila Samman Yojana and Sanjeevani Yojana. They have planned to arrest Atishi ji in the next few days by filing a fake case. Before that, raids will be conducted on senior AAP leaders…”
While the clearance for the scheme offering non-tax paying women was given to the Delhi government earlier this month, the official registration portal for the scheme has not been made operational. The healthcare scheme has not yet been passed by the cabinet or implemented.
(With inputs from agencies)

Department of Women and Child Development issued a public notice in newspapers stating that no such scheme has been officially declared and warning people not to engage, deeming it fraudulent



New Delhi, India In an unexpected move, the Delhi government’s senior officers have disowned the registration of two schemes started by Chief Minister Atishi and former chief minister Arvind Kejriwal under the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), highlighting the disagreements between the elected Delhi government and the bureaucracy. This comes after an amendment to the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) Act that placed the services department under the power of the lieutenant governor. Departments call the schemes fraudulent On Monday (Dec 23), Atishi and Kejriwal launched Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojna, under which non-taxpaying women are eligible to receive Rs 2,100 ($24.59) from the government. The second scheme, Sanjeevani Yojna offers free healthcare benefits for people over the age of 60 years in all Delhi hospitals. However, both schemes are not yet approved, sparking debate from the centre-ruling BJP, who are accusing AAP of misleading the people of Delhi. Also read | Khalistani terrorist Pannun threatens to attack PM Modi, UP CM Yogi during Maha Kumbh 2025 Department of Women and Child Development issued a public notice in newspapers stating that no such scheme has been officially declared and warning people not to engage with any individual or political party collecting forms, applications or information for applicants. It further deemed those activities fraudulent. “The general public are hereby advised and requested not to entertain such promises of a non-existent scheme, as these are misleading and without any authority…,” the statement by Department of Women and Child Development read. A similar notice was issued by the Health and Family Welfare Department, which also declared the promises fraudulent. It also said that people have started enquiring about the scheme in government hospitals. Also read | Congress files writ petition in SC against changes to election rules Kejriwal’s response to public notices In a post on X, Kejriwal wrote, “These people are rattled by the Mahila Samman Yojana and Sanjeevani Yojana. They have planned to arrest Atishi ji in the next few days by filing a fake case. Before that, raids will be conducted on senior AAP leaders…” While the clearance for the scheme offering non-tax paying women was given to the Delhi government earlier this month, the official registration portal for the scheme has not been made operational. The healthcare scheme has not yet been passed by the cabinet or implemented. (With inputs from agencies)

Shocking! Delhi govt departments call schemes launched by Kejriwal ‘fraudulent’

Melbourne, Australia
Australia skipper Pat Cummins has backed teen batter Sam Konstas to 'have fun' ahead of his upcoming debut in the Boxing day Test in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Konstas, who is set to open alongside Usman Khawaja, will replace Nathan McSweeney at the top. Cummins also remembered his debut as an 18-year-old and shared a funny anecdote as well.
"I think you always want to do well (but) I was saying this to Sam the other day, I remember that as an 18-year-old, I was thinking I got a lot more leeway because I was young. It almost felt like if I didn’t have a great game, it wasn’t my fault. It was the selectors’ fault for picking me. I was like, ‘Well, they’re the idiots who picked an 18-year-old.’ You’re so young starting out your career (and) it’s Boxing Day. It doesn’t get any better than this, so just enjoy the moment," said Cummins at the pre-match press conference as shared by cricket.com.au.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-jasprit-bumrah-equals-ravi-ashwins-historic-feat-ahead-of-boxing-day-test-786710">BGT 2024-25: Jasprit Bumrah equals Ravi Ashwin's historic feat ahead of Boxing Day Test</a>
"It’s pretty awesome. I spent a bit of the time wondering why or how I was there (because) it happened so quickly. I just remember being really excited and I think, similar to Sammy this week, there’s a level of naivety that you just want to go out and play like you do when you’re a kid in the backyard. You just want to take the game on and have fun and … not overthink it. So that’s the message of Sam," Cummins said in the same press conference.
"That’s definitely how I felt as an 18-year-old. I was just really excited. And once the kind of game started, you go into game mode and it’s just like any other game," he added.
Konstas, despite playing only 11 First Class games, has hit the limelight with his aggressive style of play. He has scored 718 runs in these 11 games at an average of 42 with three fifties and two hundreds.
The Boxing Day Test, fourth of the five-match series, begins December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Konstas, despite playing only 11 First Class games, has hit the limelight with his aggressive style of play. He has scored 718 runs in these 11 games at an average of 42 with three fifties and two hundreds.



Melbourne, Australia Australia skipper Pat Cummins has backed teen batter Sam Konstas to 'have fun' ahead of his upcoming debut in the Boxing day Test in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Konstas, who is set to open alongside Usman Khawaja, will replace Nathan McSweeney at the top. Cummins also remembered his debut as an 18-year-old and shared a funny anecdote as well. "I think you always want to do well (but) I was saying this to Sam the other day, I remember that as an 18-year-old, I was thinking I got a lot more leeway because I was young. It almost felt like if I didn’t have a great game, it wasn’t my fault. It was the selectors’ fault for picking me. I was like, ‘Well, they’re the idiots who picked an 18-year-old.’ You’re so young starting out your career (and) it’s Boxing Day. It doesn’t get any better than this, so just enjoy the moment," said Cummins at the pre-match press conference as shared by cricket.com.au. Also Read: BGT 2024-25: Jasprit Bumrah equals Ravi Ashwin's historic feat ahead of Boxing Day Test "It’s pretty awesome. I spent a bit of the time wondering why or how I was there (because) it happened so quickly. I just remember being really excited and I think, similar to Sammy this week, there’s a level of naivety that you just want to go out and play like you do when you’re a kid in the backyard. You just want to take the game on and have fun and … not overthink it. So that’s the message of Sam," Cummins said in the same press conference. "That’s definitely how I felt as an 18-year-old. I was just really excited. And once the kind of game started, you go into game mode and it’s just like any other game," he added. Konstas, despite playing only 11 First Class games, has hit the limelight with his aggressive style of play. He has scored 718 runs in these 11 games at an average of 42 with three fifties and two hundreds. The Boxing Day Test, fourth of the five-match series, begins December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

BGT 2024-25: 'There’s a level of naivety,' Aussie skipper Pat Cummins on teen Sam Konstas ahead of MCG Test

New Delhi, India
The final five episodes of Cobra Kai season six will debut on Netflix on February 13, the streamer has announced.
Cobra Kai is a spin-off series connected to The Karate Kid franchise following the competitive world of martial arts in Southern California. The series started on YouTube for the first two seasons, before moving to Netflix.
The streaming service has split the final season of the show into three parts. The first two installments, consisting five episodes each, were released on July 18 and November 15, respectively, this year.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/adorable-ranbir-and-alia-pose-with-their-daughter-raha-on-christmas-786714">Adorable! Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt pose with their daughter Raha on Christmas</a>
"This may be the end, but we’re not good at goodbyes…because COBRA KAI NEVER DIES! The final episodes of the greatest karate saga of all time arrive on February 13th, 2025, only on Netflix," the streamer posted on its official social media handles.
The finale of Cobra Kai draws upon four decades of history since the 1984 All Valley Karate Tournament in the original "Karate Kid", where Ralph Macchio's Daniel LaRusso triumphed over Johnny Lawrence, played by William Zabka.
Cobra Kai examines The Karate Kid narrative from Johnny's point of view, beginning with his decision to reopen the Cobra Kai karate dojo, and the rekindling of his old rivalry with Daniel.
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This may be the end, but we’re not good at goodbyes…because COBRA KAI NEVER DIES! The final episodes of the greatest karate saga of all time arrive on February 13th, 2025, only on Netflix. <a href="https://t.co/D46K7j23FI">pic.twitter.com/D46K7j23FI</a>
— Cobra Kai (@CobraKaiSeries) <a href="https://twitter.com/CobraKaiSeries/status/1871571698601861300?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The show also features Courtney Henggeler, Xolo Mariduena, Tanner Buchanan, Mary Mouser, Jacob Bertrand, Gianni DeCenzo, Peyton List, Martin Kove and Thomas Ian Griffith.
"Cobra Kai” is written and executive produced by Josh Heald, Jon Hurwitz and Hayden Schlossberg through their Counterbalance Entertainment banner.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/baby-john-review-varun-dhawan-is-a-action-packed-film-with-a-sloppy-story-786700">Baby John Review: Varun Dhawan is on full rowdy mode in this action-packed film</a>
Will Smith, James Lassiter and Caleeb Pinkett executive produce for Westbrook Studios along with Susan Ekins in association with Sony Pictures Television. Macchio and Zabka also serve as executive producers.
(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.)

The finale of Cobra Kai draws upon four decades of history since the 1984 All Valley Karate Tournament in the original "Karate Kid", where Ralph Macchio's Daniel LaRusso triumphed over Johnny Lawrence, played by William Zabka.



New Delhi, India The final five episodes of Cobra Kai season six will debut on Netflix on February 13, the streamer has announced. Cobra Kai is a spin-off series connected to The Karate Kid franchise following the competitive world of martial arts in Southern California. The series started on YouTube for the first two seasons, before moving to Netflix. The streaming service has split the final season of the show into three parts. The first two installments, consisting five episodes each, were released on July 18 and November 15, respectively, this year. Also read: Adorable! Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt pose with their daughter Raha on Christmas "This may be the end, but we’re not good at goodbyes…because COBRA KAI NEVER DIES! The final episodes of the greatest karate saga of all time arrive on February 13th, 2025, only on Netflix," the streamer posted on its official social media handles. The finale of Cobra Kai draws upon four decades of history since the 1984 All Valley Karate Tournament in the original "Karate Kid", where Ralph Macchio's Daniel LaRusso triumphed over Johnny Lawrence, played by William Zabka. Cobra Kai examines The Karate Kid narrative from Johnny's point of view, beginning with his decision to reopen the Cobra Kai karate dojo, and the rekindling of his old rivalry with Daniel. This may be the end, but we’re not good at goodbyes…because COBRA KAI NEVER DIES! The final episodes of the greatest karate saga of all time arrive on February 13th, 2025, only on Netflix. pic.twitter.com/D46K7j23FI — Cobra Kai (@CobraKaiSeries) December 24, 2024 × The show also features Courtney Henggeler, Xolo Mariduena, Tanner Buchanan, Mary Mouser, Jacob Bertrand, Gianni DeCenzo, Peyton List, Martin Kove and Thomas Ian Griffith. "Cobra Kai” is written and executive produced by Josh Heald, Jon Hurwitz and Hayden Schlossberg through their Counterbalance Entertainment banner. Also read: Baby John Review: Varun Dhawan is on full rowdy mode in this action-packed film Will Smith, James Lassiter and Caleeb Pinkett executive produce for Westbrook Studios along with Susan Ekins in association with Sony Pictures Television. Macchio and Zabka also serve as executive producers. (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.)

Cobra Kai final episodes to release on Netflix in 2025: Check details here

Uttar Pradesh, India
India-listed Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on Dec 24 (Tuesday) released a video, threatening Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. 
In a viral video doing rounds on social media, Pannun is seen threatening to attack PM Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during the Kumbh Mela 2025 which is set to take place in Prayagraj. 
He said his organisation, Sikhs For Justice, would take "revenge" for the encounter of three Khalistani terrorists. 
Pilibhit Police have noted the threat and said that legal proceedings against Pannun are underway. 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khalistani-terrorist-pannun-threatens-to-target-key-india-summit-vvips-including-modi-779952">Also read: Khalistani terrorist Pannun threatens to target key India summit, VVIPs including Modi</a>
“This Hindutva terrorist state has killed three Sikh youth in a fake encounter," Pannun alleged, further saying that financial support of half a million rupees will be given to the families of the terrorists killed in the alleged encounter. 
He further claimed that his organisation would “give an answer” (read as take revenge) for the encounter of Khalistani terrorists and threatened to launch attacks on the Maha Kumbh on January 14, January 29 and February 3 next year. Notably, these dates are auspicious of 'Shahi Snan'. 
He then reinstated that PM Modi and CM Yogi would be there in Prayagraj on these days and SJF would take revenge by "shaking the foundation" of "Hindutva terrorism", and will make this Maha Kumbh, the last Maha Kumbh for the two leaders. 
Watch | Khalistani Terrorist Pannun Threatens Attack On Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath
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Earlier on Monday, UP and Punjab Police officials killed three Khalistani terrorists accused of attacking a police post in Punjab's Gurdaspur district.
The three pro-Khalistani terrorists have been identified as Gurvinder Singh (25), Virender Singh alias Ravi (23), and Jaspreet Singh alias Pratap Singh (18), members of Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF), a banned terror outfit.
The operation took place in Pilibhit district of UP.  The three men were shot dead after they allegedly fired at the police party.
(With inputs from agencies)

In a viral video going rounds on social media, Pannun was seen threatening PM Modi and CM Yogi during the Kumbh Mela 2025 which is set to take place in Prayagraj. 



Uttar Pradesh, India India-listed Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on Dec 24 (Tuesday) released a video, threatening Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. In a viral video doing rounds on social media, Pannun is seen threatening to attack PM Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during the Kumbh Mela 2025 which is set to take place in Prayagraj. He said his organisation, Sikhs For Justice, would take "revenge" for the encounter of three Khalistani terrorists. Pilibhit Police have noted the threat and said that legal proceedings against Pannun are underway. Also read: Khalistani terrorist Pannun threatens to target key India summit, VVIPs including Modi “This Hindutva terrorist state has killed three Sikh youth in a fake encounter," Pannun alleged, further saying that financial support of half a million rupees will be given to the families of the terrorists killed in the alleged encounter. He further claimed that his organisation would “give an answer” (read as take revenge) for the encounter of Khalistani terrorists and threatened to launch attacks on the Maha Kumbh on January 14, January 29 and February 3 next year. Notably, these dates are auspicious of 'Shahi Snan'. He then reinstated that PM Modi and CM Yogi would be there in Prayagraj on these days and SJF would take revenge by "shaking the foundation" of "Hindutva terrorism", and will make this Maha Kumbh, the last Maha Kumbh for the two leaders. Watch | Khalistani Terrorist Pannun Threatens Attack On Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath × Earlier on Monday, UP and Punjab Police officials killed three Khalistani terrorists accused of attacking a police post in Punjab's Gurdaspur district. The three pro-Khalistani terrorists have been identified as Gurvinder Singh (25), Virender Singh alias Ravi (23), and Jaspreet Singh alias Pratap Singh (18), members of Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF), a banned terror outfit. The operation took place in Pilibhit district of UP. The three men were shot dead after they allegedly fired at the police party. (With inputs from agencies)

Khalistani terrorist Pannun threatens to attack PM Modi, UP CM Yogi Adityanath during Maha Kumbh 2025

New Delhi, India
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday laid the foundation stone of the Ken-Betwa River Link Project at Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh. 
On this occasion, he also inaugurated the Omkareshwar Floating Solar Project in Khandwa district of the state virtually.
Union Water Resources Minister C.R. Patil and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav handed over two `kalash' (urns) containing waters from Betwa and Ken rivers, respectively, to Modi, who poured them over a model of the project to launch the ambitious program.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-historic-visit-to-kuwait-a-new-era-for-stronger-ties-between-india-kuwait-relations-785961">Also read: Indian PM Modi conferred with Kuwait's highest honour, The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer</a>
Nearly four million people in ten districts of Madhya Pradesh and 21 lakh in Uttar Pradesh will get drinking water under the project, which is estimated to cost Rs 44,605 crore.
Nearly 800,000 agricultural families in 2,000 villages will benefit from the project, which will also generate 103 MW of hydropower and 27 MW of solar energy, officials said.
Modi also released a commemorative stamp and a coin in the memory of former prime minister late Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his birth centenary on this occasion.
Watch | Atal Bihari Vajpayee 100th Birth Anniversary: PM Modi, President Murmu Pay Tribute
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The Vajpayee government had proposed river linking as a solution for irrigation needs as well as for dealing with floods.
PM Modi also performed `bhumi pujan' or ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of 1,153 Atal Gram Sewa Sadans costing USD 54 million at the Khajuraho program.
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On this occasion, he also inaugurated the Omkareshwar Floating Solar Project in Khandwa district of the state virtually.



New Delhi, India Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday laid the foundation stone of the Ken-Betwa River Link Project at Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh. On this occasion, he also inaugurated the Omkareshwar Floating Solar Project in Khandwa district of the state virtually. Union Water Resources Minister C.R. Patil and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav handed over two `kalash' (urns) containing waters from Betwa and Ken rivers, respectively, to Modi, who poured them over a model of the project to launch the ambitious program. Also read: Indian PM Modi conferred with Kuwait's highest honour, The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer Nearly four million people in ten districts of Madhya Pradesh and 21 lakh in Uttar Pradesh will get drinking water under the project, which is estimated to cost Rs 44,605 crore. Nearly 800,000 agricultural families in 2,000 villages will benefit from the project, which will also generate 103 MW of hydropower and 27 MW of solar energy, officials said. Modi also released a commemorative stamp and a coin in the memory of former prime minister late Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his birth centenary on this occasion. Watch | Atal Bihari Vajpayee 100th Birth Anniversary: PM Modi, President Murmu Pay Tribute × The Vajpayee government had proposed river linking as a solution for irrigation needs as well as for dealing with floods. PM Modi also performed `bhumi pujan' or ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of 1,153 Atal Gram Sewa Sadans costing USD 54 million at the Khajuraho program. 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: PM Modi lays foundation stone of Ken-Betwa River Link Project in Madhya Pradesh

New Delhi
Neena Gupta will next be seen in Hindi Vindi, a film which takes a look at how migrants face language barriers in a different country. The film is set in Australia. It marks the Bollywood debut of Australian music icon Guy Sebastian. 
The film is set to premiere in cinemas on February 27, 2025 through The Backlot Films.
<h2>Hindi Vindi plot</h2>
Hindi Vindi will explore themes of identity, family, and the universal language of music. It tells the story of Kabir, a teenage musician on a journey of self-discovery as he races against time to create a song in a language he doesn't speak. 
The film's synopsis reads: "Kabir, a 17-year-old teenage boy, is conflicted about his cultural identity and struggles with a language barrier when his Indian grandmother comes to live with him in Sydney. The relationship between the two is strained, but they bond over music. When grandma suffers a cardiac arrest, Kabir sets out on a mission to learn Hindi and wants to surprise her with a Hindi rap song at an inter-college festival. This experience transforms Kabir, instilling in him a deep appreciation for language and cultural connection. After 2 years, Kabir is a global icon and a renowned musician who promotes language and culture through music and performs Hindi rap at an international music festival in Mumbai to honour his grandmother."
The film’s music is set to be a defining feature of the movie, blending a mix of contemporary and classical tunes to create a rich auditory experience. Javed-Mohsin, and Guy Sebastian himself, have composed soundtracks that reflect the emotions and themes central to the story. 
Watch Hindi Vindi teaser trailer here:
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The film is created by 24Six Films in association with Sydney based Executive Production Company Drishya Sharma Productions.
Hindi Vindi was shot on location across Sydney, Australia and is directed by Ali Sayed and written by Jay Sharma with Sayed.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-everything-we-know-about-christopher-nolanbs-next-the-odyssey-786392">Everything we know about Christopher Nolan's next, The Odyssey</a>

Hindi Vindi trailer: Directed by Ali Sayed, it depicts a migrant family's language struggle in Sydney.



New Delhi Neena Gupta will next be seen in Hindi Vindi, a film which takes a look at how migrants face language barriers in a different country. The film is set in Australia. It marks the Bollywood debut of Australian music icon Guy Sebastian. The film is set to premiere in cinemas on February 27, 2025 through The Backlot Films. Hindi Vindi plot Hindi Vindi will explore themes of identity, family, and the universal language of music. It tells the story of Kabir, a teenage musician on a journey of self-discovery as he races against time to create a song in a language he doesn't speak. The film's synopsis reads: "Kabir, a 17-year-old teenage boy, is conflicted about his cultural identity and struggles with a language barrier when his Indian grandmother comes to live with him in Sydney. The relationship between the two is strained, but they bond over music. When grandma suffers a cardiac arrest, Kabir sets out on a mission to learn Hindi and wants to surprise her with a Hindi rap song at an inter-college festival. This experience transforms Kabir, instilling in him a deep appreciation for language and cultural connection. After 2 years, Kabir is a global icon and a renowned musician who promotes language and culture through music and performs Hindi rap at an international music festival in Mumbai to honour his grandmother." The film’s music is set to be a defining feature of the movie, blending a mix of contemporary and classical tunes to create a rich auditory experience. Javed-Mohsin, and Guy Sebastian himself, have composed soundtracks that reflect the emotions and themes central to the story. Watch Hindi Vindi teaser trailer here: The film is created by 24Six Films in association with Sydney based Executive Production Company Drishya Sharma Productions. Hindi Vindi was shot on location across Sydney, Australia and is directed by Ali Sayed and written by Jay Sharma with Sayed. Also read: Everything we know about Christopher Nolan's next, The Odyssey

Hindi Vindi trailer: Neena Gupta's film is about a migrant family facing language crisis

New Delhi, India 
In what is set to be the first key visit of a foreign diplomat to India in the new year, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs, Dr Majid Takht Ravanchi, will be in Delhi. Dr Takht Ravanchi, who was Iran's former ambassador and permanent representative to the United Nations from 2019 to 2022, has been the country's deputy foreign minister since September 2024. During this tenure at the UN, he was a key figure in discussions related to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), or the Iran nuclear deal.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-appoints-majid-takht-ravanchi-as-new-un-ambassador-209039"> Iran appoints Majid Takht Ravanchi as new UN ambassador</a>
During the Delhi visit, he will hold key talks with his counterparts, with a focus on economic ties, the Chabahar port project, and the current situation in West Asia. India is actively operating the first phase of Chabahar, which provides connectivity to Central Asia and Afghanistan. In May 2024, a 10-year deal was signed by both the countries, Iran and India, to operate a terminal at the strategic port, with India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) investing $120 million and offering a $250 million credit line for infrastructure improvements.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eam-jaishankar-to-visit-us-from-december-24-29-first-high-level-visit-after-trumps-election-win-786223">Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar to visit US from Dec 24-29 to discuss bilateral and global issues</a>
The area of conversation will also be on Iran's reintegration into BRICS and SCO, where India holds significant influence. Iran became a member of the SCO grouping under India's presidency in 2023. The West Asian country became a full member of BRICS on 1st January 2024, a decision that was taken during South Africa's presidency of the group in 2023.

Dr Takht Ravanchi, who was Iran's former ambassador and permanent representative to the United Nations from 2019 to 2022, has been the country's deputy foreign minister since September 2024.



New Delhi, India In what is set to be the first key visit of a foreign diplomat to India in the new year, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs, Dr Majid Takht Ravanchi, will be in Delhi. Dr Takht Ravanchi, who was Iran's former ambassador and permanent representative to the United Nations from 2019 to 2022, has been the country's deputy foreign minister since September 2024. During this tenure at the UN, he was a key figure in discussions related to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), or the Iran nuclear deal. Also Read: Iran appoints Majid Takht Ravanchi as new UN ambassador During the Delhi visit, he will hold key talks with his counterparts, with a focus on economic ties, the Chabahar port project, and the current situation in West Asia. India is actively operating the first phase of Chabahar, which provides connectivity to Central Asia and Afghanistan. In May 2024, a 10-year deal was signed by both the countries, Iran and India, to operate a terminal at the strategic port, with India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) investing $120 million and offering a $250 million credit line for infrastructure improvements. Also Read: Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar to visit US from Dec 24-29 to discuss bilateral and global issues The area of conversation will also be on Iran's reintegration into BRICS and SCO, where India holds significant influence. Iran became a member of the SCO grouping under India's presidency in 2023. The West Asian country became a full member of BRICS on 1st January 2024, a decision that was taken during South Africa's presidency of the group in 2023.

Top Iran diplomat Dr Takht Ravanchi to visit Delhi

New Delhi
India pacer Jasprit Bumrah has created history by equalling recently retired Ravi Ashwin's points tally on the ICC Test bowlers rankings. Bumrah's 904 points are the joint-highest ever for an Indian bowler along with Ashwin who had achieved the feat in December 2016.
Bumrah's tally, which he achieved after the figures of 9/94 in third Test vs Australia, is also the best ever for an Indian pacer. He already stands at the top of ICC Test Bowler ranking - a huge 39 points clear of South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada's 865.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-icc-releases-full-schedule-of-tournament-check-all-details-inside-786503">Champions Trophy 2025: ICC releases full schedule of tournament - check details inside</a>
It is because of Bumrah that India are still alive in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). The pacer has been outstanding with 21 wickets in six innings of three Tests.
Bumrah's wicket-tally in the series is the highest from both sides with Aussie duo Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins at second place with 14 wickets apiece.
It has been a miserable situation for Indian bowlers apart from Bumrah. All the other Indian bowlers used in the series so far have 22 wickets collectively, with Mohammed Siraj taking 13 of them with India taking a total of 47 wickets.
With no Mohammed Shami available, Bumrah has been waging the lone battle against Australia with two five-for and one four-for and an economy rate of 2.60 with a strike rate of 25.14.
It is thanks to Bumrah that India won the first Test in Perth despite being bowled out for 150 in the first innings. With the pacer being played cautiously in the second Test of the series, Australia piled on runs against other bowlers and won the match eventually.
Bumrah was back to his best at the Gabba and helped India draw the Test with good performance from both bat and ball.
The five-Test series stands equal at 101 after three matches with two more games to go. The next match start December 26 (Boxing Day) at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) while the last game is slated to be played from January 3-7 at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

It is because of Bumrah that India are still alive in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). The pacer has been outstanding with 21 wickets in six innings of three Tests



New Delhi India pacer Jasprit Bumrah has created history by equalling recently retired Ravi Ashwin's points tally on the ICC Test bowlers rankings. Bumrah's 904 points are the joint-highest ever for an Indian bowler along with Ashwin who had achieved the feat in December 2016. Bumrah's tally, which he achieved after the figures of 9/94 in third Test vs Australia, is also the best ever for an Indian pacer. He already stands at the top of ICC Test Bowler ranking - a huge 39 points clear of South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada's 865. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: ICC releases full schedule of tournament - check details inside It is because of Bumrah that India are still alive in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). The pacer has been outstanding with 21 wickets in six innings of three Tests. Bumrah's wicket-tally in the series is the highest from both sides with Aussie duo Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins at second place with 14 wickets apiece. It has been a miserable situation for Indian bowlers apart from Bumrah. All the other Indian bowlers used in the series so far have 22 wickets collectively, with Mohammed Siraj taking 13 of them with India taking a total of 47 wickets. With no Mohammed Shami available, Bumrah has been waging the lone battle against Australia with two five-for and one four-for and an economy rate of 2.60 with a strike rate of 25.14. It is thanks to Bumrah that India won the first Test in Perth despite being bowled out for 150 in the first innings. With the pacer being played cautiously in the second Test of the series, Australia piled on runs against other bowlers and won the match eventually. Bumrah was back to his best at the Gabba and helped India draw the Test with good performance from both bat and ball. The five-Test series stands equal at 101 after three matches with two more games to go. The next match start December 26 (Boxing Day) at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) while the last game is slated to be played from January 3-7 at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

BGT 2024-25: Jasprit Bumrah equals Ravi Ashwin's historic feat ahead of Boxing Day Test

Astana, Kazakhstan
An Azerbaijan Airlines passenger jet on Wednesday (Dec 25) burst into flames as it was attempting an emergency landing in Western Kazakhstan, the Kazakh transport ministry said. According to preliminary reports, only 25 of the 67 people on board survived the crash.
On social media application Telegram, the ministry wrote: "A plane doing the Baku-Grozny route crashed near the city of Aktau. It belongs to Azerbaijan Airlines."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-government-spokesperson-claims-46-killed-in-pakistans-overnight-strike-786677">Afghanistan: Taliban government spokesperson claims 46 killed in Pakistan's overnight strike</a>
Meanwhile, the Airlines, which is Azerbaijan's flag carrier, said the Embraer 190 had "made an emergency landing" around three kilometres from Aktau, an oil and gas hub on the eastern shore of the Caspian Sea.
<h2>Casualties and more</h2>
As per the Kazakh transport ministry, there were 62 passengers and five crew members on board.
However, media reports have put the number high, up to 105, on board.  
Kazakhstan's emergency situation ministry said that only 25 people survived the crash, which means 42 people may have perished in the incident.
"According to preliminary information, there are 25 survivors of whom 22 have been hospitalised," said the ministry on Telegram. Health officials had earlier said that 14 survivors had been hospitalised.
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⚠️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a>: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Azerbaijan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Azerbaijan</a> Airlines E190 Crashes in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kazakhstan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kazakhstan</a>, Survivors Reported
A tragic aviation incident unfolded today as Azerbaijan Airlines Flight <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/J28243?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#J28243</a>, an Embraer E190AR registered (4K-AZ65)carrying 72 people, crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan. The flight was en route… <a href="https://t.co/BlntUOYT5m">pic.twitter.com/BlntUOYT5m</a>
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Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-launches-airstrike-in-afghanistan-civilians-suffer-no-official-confirmation-from-islamabad-786628">Pakistan launches overnight airstrike on Afghanistan, targets Taliban hideouts</a>
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A tragic aviation incident unfolded today as Azerbaijan Airlines Flight <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/J28243?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#J28243</a>, an Embraer E190AR registered (4K-AZ65)carrying 72 people, crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan. The flight was en route… <a href="https://t.co/BlntUOYT5m">pic.twitter.com/BlntUOYT5m</a>
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Kazakhstan's Ministry for Emergency Situations earlier said its personnel were putting out a fire at the site.
(With inputs from agencies)

"A plane doing the Baku-Grozny route crashed near the city of Aktau. It belongs to Azerbaijan Airlines," the ministry said on Telegram.



Astana, Kazakhstan An Azerbaijan Airlines passenger jet on Wednesday (Dec 25) burst into flames as it was attempting an emergency landing in Western Kazakhstan, the Kazakh transport ministry said. According to preliminary reports, only 25 of the 67 people on board survived the crash. On social media application Telegram, the ministry wrote: "A plane doing the Baku-Grozny route crashed near the city of Aktau. It belongs to Azerbaijan Airlines." Also read | Afghanistan: Taliban government spokesperson claims 46 killed in Pakistan's overnight strike Meanwhile, the Airlines, which is Azerbaijan's flag carrier, said the Embraer 190 had "made an emergency landing" around three kilometres from Aktau, an oil and gas hub on the eastern shore of the Caspian Sea. Casualties and more As per the Kazakh transport ministry, there were 62 passengers and five crew members on board. However, media reports have put the number high, up to 105, on board. Kazakhstan's emergency situation ministry said that only 25 people survived the crash, which means 42 people may have perished in the incident. "According to preliminary information, there are 25 survivors of whom 22 have been hospitalised," said the ministry on Telegram. Health officials had earlier said that 14 survivors had been hospitalised. ⚠️#BREAKING: #Azerbaijan Airlines E190 Crashes in #Kazakhstan, Survivors Reported A tragic aviation incident unfolded today as Azerbaijan Airlines Flight #J28243, an Embraer E190AR registered (4K-AZ65)carrying 72 people, crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan. The flight was en route… pic.twitter.com/BlntUOYT5m — Antony Ochieng,KE✈️ (@Turbinetraveler) December 25, 2024 × Also read | Pakistan launches overnight airstrike on Afghanistan, targets Taliban hideouts ⚠️#BREAKING: #Azerbaijan Airlines E190 Crashes in #Kazakhstan, Survivors Reported A tragic aviation incident unfolded today as Azerbaijan Airlines Flight #J28243, an Embraer E190AR registered (4K-AZ65)carrying 72 people, crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan. The flight was en route… pic.twitter.com/BlntUOYT5m — Antony Ochieng,KE✈️ (@Turbinetraveler) December 25, 2024 × Kazakhstan's Ministry for Emergency Situations earlier said its personnel were putting out a fire at the site. (With inputs from agencies)

42 killed as Azerbaijan Airlines plane bursts into flames after emergency landing in Kazakhstan

Melbourne, Australia
The race for the World Test Championship (WTC) final is heating as India and Australia square off for a crunch clash at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday (Dec 26). With Travis Head fit and India set to put up their first choice Playing XI for the Boxing Day Test, the outcome of the match is set to have a huge impact on the WTC standings. So ahead of the big contest, here is all you need to know on how the WTC standings will look after the big clash at MCG.
<img alt="WTC Standings" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6852fdef-954e-4d64-8af0-53b34a8ca49e" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/sites/default/files/inline-images/WTC Standings (1).png"/>
<h2>What are the current WTC standings?</h2>
Currently, India sit third in the WTC standings with a win percentage (PCT) of 55.88 while Australia occupy the second spot with 58.89 PCT. On the other hand, South Africa are top of the standings with 63.33 and are likely to seal a top-two berth to reach the final at Lord’s in June 2025. Despite sitting below New Zealand in the standings, Sri Lanka are still in with a chance to reach the WTC final as they have two matches in hand.
<h2>What happens if India win the Boxing Day Test match?</h2>
If India win the MCG Test match, Rohit Sharma’s men will go second in the WTC standings with a PCT of 58.33 while Australia will drop down to the third spot with a PCT of 55.21. India have a good recent record at the MCG, having won the last two Boxing Day Tests at the venue and are unbeaten there since 2011 when they last lost to Michael Clarke’s Australia.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-travis-head-declared-fit-for-boxing-day-test-as-australia-announce-playing-xi-konstas-to-debut-786605">BGT 2024/25: Travis Head declared fit for Boxing Day Test as Australia announce Playing XI; Konstas to debut</a>
<h2>What happens if Boxing Day Test ends in draw?</h2>
In case the Boxing Day Test ends in a draw, both India and Australia will drop points in the WTC standings meaning the former’s chances of making the final will hang in balance. India will have a PCT of 54.63 and will sit third while Australia will remain second with a PCT of 57.29. In this case, India’s fate of reaching the WTC final will be out of their hands with them needing to win the Sydney Test and other results going their way.
<h2>What happens if Inda lose Boxing Day Test?</h2>
In case India lose the Boxing Day Test at MCG, their journey for a place in the WTC final will come to an end unless Australia and Sri Lanka end with poor PCT and drop points for poor over rate. Considering the latter equation is unlikely, a defeat for India will end their quest for a place in the WTC final as they will have a PCT of 52.78 while Australia will have one foot in the final with a PCT of 61.46.

With Travis Head fit and India set to put up their first choice Playing XI for the Boxing Day Test, the outcome of the match is set to have a huge impact on the WTC standings. So ahead of the big contest, here is all you need to know on how the WTC standings will look after the big clash at MCG.



Melbourne, Australia The race for the World Test Championship (WTC) final is heating as India and Australia square off for a crunch clash at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday (Dec 26). With Travis Head fit and India set to put up their first choice Playing XI for the Boxing Day Test, the outcome of the match is set to have a huge impact on the WTC standings. So ahead of the big contest, here is all you need to know on how the WTC standings will look after the big clash at MCG. What are the current WTC standings? Currently, India sit third in the WTC standings with a win percentage (PCT) of 55.88 while Australia occupy the second spot with 58.89 PCT. On the other hand, South Africa are top of the standings with 63.33 and are likely to seal a top-two berth to reach the final at Lord’s in June 2025. Despite sitting below New Zealand in the standings, Sri Lanka are still in with a chance to reach the WTC final as they have two matches in hand. What happens if India win the Boxing Day Test match? If India win the MCG Test match, Rohit Sharma’s men will go second in the WTC standings with a PCT of 58.33 while Australia will drop down to the third spot with a PCT of 55.21. India have a good recent record at the MCG, having won the last two Boxing Day Tests at the venue and are unbeaten there since 2011 when they last lost to Michael Clarke’s Australia. ALSO READ | BGT 2024/25: Travis Head declared fit for Boxing Day Test as Australia announce Playing XI; Konstas to debut What happens if Boxing Day Test ends in draw? In case the Boxing Day Test ends in a draw, both India and Australia will drop points in the WTC standings meaning the former’s chances of making the final will hang in balance. India will have a PCT of 54.63 and will sit third while Australia will remain second with a PCT of 57.29. In this case, India’s fate of reaching the WTC final will be out of their hands with them needing to win the Sydney Test and other results going their way. What happens if Inda lose Boxing Day Test? In case India lose the Boxing Day Test at MCG, their journey for a place in the WTC final will come to an end unless Australia and Sri Lanka end with poor PCT and drop points for poor over rate. Considering the latter equation is unlikely, a defeat for India will end their quest for a place in the WTC final as they will have a PCT of 52.78 while Australia will have one foot in the final with a PCT of 61.46.

BGT 2024-25: Here's how WTC standings will look if India win, lose or draw MCG Test

Jerusalem, Israel
A former Israeli hostage held by Hamas died due to illness on Tuesday (Dec 24). She was the first to lose her life after being released alongside several others who returned after a hostage exchange deal earlier.
Nir Oz Kibbutz issued a statement announcing the demise of Hanna Katzir. She and her son, Elad, were taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
According to news agency AFP, an Israeli government official has said that Katzir has been recognised as a victim of the October attack by Hamas.
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“Hanna Katzir, 76, kidnapped from her home in Nir Oz during the massacre on October 7th and released during the ceasefire on November 24, 2023, died on December 24, 2024, after a complex medical situation since her release. She has been recognised as a victim of terrorism,” the official said in a statement.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his condolences to Katzir family. He also said in a statement that he would “work tirelessly to bring all of our hostages home.”
<h2>Who was Hanna Katzir?</h2>
Hanna Katzir, a 76-year-old woman, was one of the hostages captured by Hamas during the October 7 attack in Israel. Earlier, the Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad claimed that she had died just before a hostage deal, however, later it was discovered that she was released in November.
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Her husband and son were killed by Hamas in the same attack. While her husband Rami died on the same day in their home, her 47-year-old son, Elad, died in captivity. His body was brought back to Israel in April this year. Karzir was buried on Tuesday (Dec 24) afternoon.
<h2>Israel-Hamas hostage deal</h2>
Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 23) said in parliament that “some progress” had been made in regard to the negotiations for the release of hostages in Gaza. This comes two days after the talks towards a ceasefire and hostage release deal by Palestinian militant groups.
The October 7 attack resulted in over 1,200 people being killed and more than 250 taken as hostages, according to the news agency AFP. As per the army, 96 civilians are still held in Gaza, while 34 have died.
(With inputs from agencies)

Nir Oz Kibbutz issued a statement announcing the demise of Hanna Katzir. She and her son, Elad, were taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023



Jerusalem, Israel A former Israeli hostage held by Hamas died due to illness on Tuesday (Dec 24). She was the first to lose her life after being released alongside several others who returned after a hostage exchange deal earlier. Nir Oz Kibbutz issued a statement announcing the demise of Hanna Katzir. She and her son, Elad, were taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. According to news agency AFP, an Israeli government official has said that Katzir has been recognised as a victim of the October attack by Hamas. Also read | Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says 'will act against them to remove threat' “Hanna Katzir, 76, kidnapped from her home in Nir Oz during the massacre on October 7th and released during the ceasefire on November 24, 2023, died on December 24, 2024, after a complex medical situation since her release. She has been recognised as a victim of terrorism,” the official said in a statement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his condolences to Katzir family. He also said in a statement that he would “work tirelessly to bring all of our hostages home.” Who was Hanna Katzir? Hanna Katzir, a 76-year-old woman, was one of the hostages captured by Hamas during the October 7 attack in Israel. Earlier, the Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad claimed that she had died just before a hostage deal, however, later it was discovered that she was released in November. Also read | Israel probe finds Hamas 'murdered' hostages in fear of advancing ground troops Her husband and son were killed by Hamas in the same attack. While her husband Rami died on the same day in their home, her 47-year-old son, Elad, died in captivity. His body was brought back to Israel in April this year. Karzir was buried on Tuesday (Dec 24) afternoon. Israel-Hamas hostage deal Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 23) said in parliament that “some progress” had been made in regard to the negotiations for the release of hostages in Gaza. This comes two days after the talks towards a ceasefire and hostage release deal by Palestinian militant groups. The October 7 attack resulted in over 1,200 people being killed and more than 250 taken as hostages, according to the news agency AFP. As per the army, 96 civilians are still held in Gaza, while 34 have died. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Israeli hostage held in Gaza dies a year after her release

New Delhi, India
The Congress on Tuesday filed a writ petition in the Supreme Court challenging the recent amendments to the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961 and expressed hope that the apex court will help restore the "fast eroding" integrity of the electoral process.
The government has tweaked an election rule to prevent public inspection of certain electronic documents such as CCTV camera and webcasting footage as well as video recordings of candidates to prevent their misuse.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-flights-trains-affected-in-delhi-due-to-dense-fog-imd-predicts-colder-days-ahead-786686">India: Flights, trains affected in Delhi due to dense fog; IMD predicts colder days ahead</a>
AICC general secretary Jairam Ramesh, who filed the petition, said, "The integrity of the electoral process is fast eroding. Hopefully the Supreme Court will help restore it."
"A writ has just been filed in the Supreme Court challenging the recent amendments to the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961," he said in a post on X.
Ramesh said the Election Commission, a Constitutional body charged with the conduct of free and fair elections cannot be allowed to unilaterally, and without public consultation, amend such a vital law in such a brazen manner.
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"This is especially true when that amendment does away with public access to essential information that makes the electoral process more transparent and accountable," he said.
Based on the recommendation of the Election Commission of India, the Union law ministry on Friday amended Rule 93(2)(a) of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, to restrict the type of "papers" or documents open to public inspection.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

AICC general secretary Jairam Ramesh, who filed the petition, said, "The integrity of the electoral process is fast eroding. Hopefully the Supreme Court will help restore it"



New Delhi, India The Congress on Tuesday filed a writ petition in the Supreme Court challenging the recent amendments to the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961 and expressed hope that the apex court will help restore the "fast eroding" integrity of the electoral process. The government has tweaked an election rule to prevent public inspection of certain electronic documents such as CCTV camera and webcasting footage as well as video recordings of candidates to prevent their misuse. Also read | India: Flights, trains affected in Delhi due to dense fog; IMD predicts colder days ahead AICC general secretary Jairam Ramesh, who filed the petition, said, "The integrity of the electoral process is fast eroding. Hopefully the Supreme Court will help restore it." "A writ has just been filed in the Supreme Court challenging the recent amendments to the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961," he said in a post on X. Ramesh said the Election Commission, a Constitutional body charged with the conduct of free and fair elections cannot be allowed to unilaterally, and without public consultation, amend such a vital law in such a brazen manner. Also read | Indian President Droupadi Murmu appoints governors of five states "This is especially true when that amendment does away with public access to essential information that makes the electoral process more transparent and accountable," he said. Based on the recommendation of the Election Commission of India, the Union law ministry on Friday amended Rule 93(2)(a) of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, to restrict the type of "papers" or documents open to public inspection. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Congress files writ petition in SC against changes to election rules

Melbourne, Australia
AUS vs IND Boxing Day Test Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: With a place in the World Test Championship (WTC), final up for grabs, India and Australia will look to drop curtains on a successful year. Rohit Sharma and Co need a win to keep their WTC final chances alive while Australia search for redemption having failed to win their last three Boxing Day Tests against India. Ahead of the Boxing Day Test between hosts Australia and India, here are all the details, including live streaming, squads, and others.
<h2>When is the Australia vs India Boxing Day Test match?</h2>
The Australia vs India Boxing Day Test match will start on Thursday (Dec 26).
<h2>Which stadium will host the Australia vs India Boxing Day Test match?</h2>
The Australia vs India Boxing Day Test match will be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne.
<h2>What time will the Australia vs India Boxing Day Test match start?</h2>
The Australia vs India Boxing Day Test match will start at 10:30 AM local time (5:00 AM IST) with toss taking place at 10:00 AM local time (4:30 AM IST).
<h2>Where to watch the Australia vs India Boxing Day Test match on TV?</h2>
The Australia vs India Boxing Day Test match will be telecasted on the Star Sports Network in India.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-heres-how-wtc-standings-will-look-if-india-win-loss-or-draw-mcg-test-786646">BGT 2024-25: Here's how WTC standings will look if India win, lose or draw MCG Test</a>
<h2>Where to watch the Australia vs India Boxing Day Test LIVE Streaming online on OTT?</h2>
The Australia vs India Boxing Day Test match will be live-streamed on the Disney+Hotstar app and website in India.
<h2>Squads</h2>
Australia Playing XI: Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland
India: Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Devdutt Padikkal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar. Reserves: Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, Khaleel Ahmed, Yash Dayal

Rohit Sharma and Co need a win to keep their WTC final chances alive while Australia search for redemption having failed to win their last three Boxing Day Tests against India



Melbourne, Australia AUS vs IND Boxing Day Test Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: With a place in the World Test Championship (WTC), final up for grabs, India and Australia will look to drop curtains on a successful year. Rohit Sharma and Co need a win to keep their WTC final chances alive while Australia search for redemption having failed to win their last three Boxing Day Tests against India. Ahead of the Boxing Day Test between hosts Australia and India, here are all the details, including live streaming, squads, and others. When is the Australia vs India Boxing Day Test match? The Australia vs India Boxing Day Test match will start on Thursday (Dec 26). Which stadium will host the Australia vs India Boxing Day Test match? The Australia vs India Boxing Day Test match will be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne. What time will the Australia vs India Boxing Day Test match start? The Australia vs India Boxing Day Test match will start at 10:30 AM local time (5:00 AM IST) with toss taking place at 10:00 AM local time (4:30 AM IST). Where to watch the Australia vs India Boxing Day Test match on TV? The Australia vs India Boxing Day Test match will be telecasted on the Star Sports Network in India. ALSO READ | BGT 2024-25: Here's how WTC standings will look if India win, lose or draw MCG Test Where to watch the Australia vs India Boxing Day Test LIVE Streaming online on OTT? The Australia vs India Boxing Day Test match will be live-streamed on the Disney+Hotstar app and website in India. Squads Australia Playing XI: Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland India: Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Devdutt Padikkal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar. Reserves: Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, Khaleel Ahmed, Yash Dayal

AUS vs IND, Boxing Day Test live streaming: When & where to watch Australia vs India live on laptop, TV, Squad

New Delhi, India
Parts of Delhi and adjoining regions woke to a dense fog on Christmas morning. Due to the reduced visibility, Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport issued an advisory over the possible impact on flight operations. Additionally, at least 20 trains were delayed across various parts of the country due to limited visibility.
In the advisory, the Delhi airport said that flights that are not compliant with CAT III may be affected. Aircraft with CAT III allow the planes to land in reduced visibility conditions. 
The advisory also advised passengers to contact the airline for the latest flight information. IndiGo airline also urged passengers to check their flight status before leaving for the airport.
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<h2>Cold grip Delhi and adjoining regions</h2>
Various parts of Delhi-NCR including Dwarka Expressway, Ghaziabad, Noida and Gurugram witnessed low visibility due to fog on Wednesday (Dec 25) morning. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the minimum temperature was recorded at 9 degrees Celsius in Delhi.
On Tuesday (Dec 24), the national capital received rainfall in some parts and recorded a minimum temperature of 7 degrees Celsius.
The weather department has predicted that mercury in Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan is expected to fall in the next two days. Hailstorms and thunderstorms in northwestern and central India, while light to moderate snowfall in the northern hill region are expected on December 27 and 28.
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<h2>GRAP-IV revoked</h2>
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) lifted the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage IV measure in Delhi after the air quality in the national capital improved. The authorities also said on Tuesday (Dec 24) that guidelines under Stages I, II, and III will remain effective to prevent air quality from deteriorating again.
Delhi recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 333 around 7 am on Wednesday (Dec 25). The air quality in the national capital improved due to improved wind speed and favourable weather conditions, news agency ANI reported citing IMD and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).
(With inputs from agencies)

In the advisory, the Delhi airport said that flights that are not compliant with CAT III may be affected. Aircraft with CAT III allow the planes to land in reduced visibility conditions



New Delhi, India Parts of Delhi and adjoining regions woke to a dense fog on Christmas morning. Due to the reduced visibility, Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport issued an advisory over the possible impact on flight operations. Additionally, at least 20 trains were delayed across various parts of the country due to limited visibility. In the advisory, the Delhi airport said that flights that are not compliant with CAT III may be affected. Aircraft with CAT III allow the planes to land in reduced visibility conditions. The advisory also advised passengers to contact the airline for the latest flight information. IndiGo airline also urged passengers to check their flight status before leaving for the airport. Also read | Delhi's air quality improves, GRAP stage IV measures lifted Cold grip Delhi and adjoining regions Various parts of Delhi-NCR including Dwarka Expressway, Ghaziabad, Noida and Gurugram witnessed low visibility due to fog on Wednesday (Dec 25) morning. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the minimum temperature was recorded at 9 degrees Celsius in Delhi. On Tuesday (Dec 24), the national capital received rainfall in some parts and recorded a minimum temperature of 7 degrees Celsius. The weather department has predicted that mercury in Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan is expected to fall in the next two days. Hailstorms and thunderstorms in northwestern and central India, while light to moderate snowfall in the northern hill region are expected on December 27 and 28. Also read | India weather update: Cold wave grips north, rainfall expected in south GRAP-IV revoked The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) lifted the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage IV measure in Delhi after the air quality in the national capital improved. The authorities also said on Tuesday (Dec 24) that guidelines under Stages I, II, and III will remain effective to prevent air quality from deteriorating again. Delhi recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 333 around 7 am on Wednesday (Dec 25). The air quality in the national capital improved due to improved wind speed and favourable weather conditions, news agency ANI reported citing IMD and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). (With inputs from agencies)

India: Flights, trains affected in Delhi due to dense fog; IMD predicts colder days ahead

New Delhi, India
India: On Wednesday (Dec 24), an unidentified vehicle rammed into the ambulance carrying the bodies of the three suspected terrorists of the banned 'Khalistan Zindabad Force' recently neutralised in a joint operation of Punjab and Uttar Pradesh Police.
As per the police, the incident happened on the Rampur bypass on Tuesday (Dec 23) night. While no injuries have been reported, the ambulance was damaged in the incident. Following this, the bodies were shifted to another vehicle for transportation.
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<h2>What happened?</h2>
According to the Rampur District Superintendent of Police Vidyasagar Mishra, an unidentified vehicle rammed into the vehicle carrying the bodies. He specified that no casualties happened.
Mishra said that as soon as his department received information about the accident, Rampur police rushed to the site and the bodies of the three terrorists were shifted to another vehicle.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-three-pak-sponsored-terrorists-linked-to-banned-khalistan-zindabad-force-killed-in-encounter-in-up-786090">India: Three Pak-sponsored terrorists linked to banned 'Khalistan Zindabad Force' killed in encounter in UP</a> 
<h2>Who were the terrorists?</h2>
On Monday (Dec 23), officials from UP Police and Punjab police, in a joint operation, killed three Khalistani terrorists accused of attacking a police post in Punjab's Gurdaspur district.
The operation took place in Uttar Pradesh's Pilibhit. The three pro-Khalistani terrorists have been identified as Gurvinder Singh (25), Virender Singh alias Ravi (23), and Jaspreet Singh alias Pratap Singh (18), members of Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF), a banned terror outfit. The three men were shot down after they allegedly fired at the police party.
They were part of a module controlled by Ranjeet Singh Nita, the chief of KZF, and operated by Jaswinder Singh Mannu and Jagjeet Singh.
On Wednesday, in a post on X, Punjab Police DJP Yadav alleged that Jagjeet Singh, who was operating under the alias Fateh Singh Baggi, is based in the United Kingdom and is believed to be serving in the British Army.
(With inputs from agencies)

As per the police, the incident happened on the Rampur bypass on Tuesday (Dec 23) night. While no injuries have been reported, the ambulance was damaged in the incident. Following this, the bodies were shifted to another vehicle for transportation



New Delhi, India India: On Wednesday (Dec 24), an unidentified vehicle rammed into the ambulance carrying the bodies of the three suspected terrorists of the banned 'Khalistan Zindabad Force' recently neutralised in a joint operation of Punjab and Uttar Pradesh Police. As per the police, the incident happened on the Rampur bypass on Tuesday (Dec 23) night. While no injuries have been reported, the ambulance was damaged in the incident. Following this, the bodies were shifted to another vehicle for transportation. Also read | Khalistani terrorists killed in UP were led by UK army officer, claims top Indian cop What happened? According to the Rampur District Superintendent of Police Vidyasagar Mishra, an unidentified vehicle rammed into the vehicle carrying the bodies. He specified that no casualties happened. Mishra said that as soon as his department received information about the accident, Rampur police rushed to the site and the bodies of the three terrorists were shifted to another vehicle. Also read | India: Three Pak-sponsored terrorists linked to banned 'Khalistan Zindabad Force' killed in encounter in UP Who were the terrorists? On Monday (Dec 23), officials from UP Police and Punjab police, in a joint operation, killed three Khalistani terrorists accused of attacking a police post in Punjab's Gurdaspur district. The operation took place in Uttar Pradesh's Pilibhit. The three pro-Khalistani terrorists have been identified as Gurvinder Singh (25), Virender Singh alias Ravi (23), and Jaspreet Singh alias Pratap Singh (18), members of Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF), a banned terror outfit. The three men were shot down after they allegedly fired at the police party. They were part of a module controlled by Ranjeet Singh Nita, the chief of KZF, and operated by Jaswinder Singh Mannu and Jagjeet Singh. On Wednesday, in a post on X, Punjab Police DJP Yadav alleged that Jagjeet Singh, who was operating under the alias Fateh Singh Baggi, is based in the United Kingdom and is believed to be serving in the British Army. (With inputs from agencies)

Unidentified vehicle rams into ambulance transporting bodies of Khalistani terrorists killed in UP

Jerusalem, Israel
The Israeli army said Wednesday it intercepted a ballistic missile fired towards the country from Yemen.
Air raid sirens sounded over a wide swathe of central Israel as a precaution against falling debris, but the army said it shot down the projectile before it entered Israeli territory.
No injuries were reported, according to Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel's emergency medical services.
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"A missile that was launched from Yemen was intercepted before crossing into Israeli territory," the Israeli army wrote on the Telegram social media platform. "Sirens regarding rocket and missile launches were activated due to the possibility of falling shrapnel from the interception."
On Tuesday, the Israeli army also said it had intercepted a projectile fired from Yemen.
Yemen's Iran-backed Huthi rebels have repeatedly launched missiles against Israel in solidarity with the Palestinians since the war in Gaza began more than a year ago. Most of them have been intercepted, but on Saturday an attack on Tel Aviv injured 16 people.
In recent days, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a warning to the rebels.
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"I have instructed our forces to destroy the infrastructure of Huthis, because anyone who tries to harm us will be struck with full force," Netanyahu said, "even if it takes time".
In July, a Huthi drone attack on Tel Aviv killed an Israeli civilian, prompting retaliatory strikes on the Yemeni port of Hodeidah.
The Huthis have also regularly targeted shipping in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, leading to retaliatory strikes by US and sometimes British forces. 
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

No injuries were reported, according to Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel's emergency medical services



Jerusalem, Israel The Israeli army said Wednesday it intercepted a ballistic missile fired towards the country from Yemen. Air raid sirens sounded over a wide swathe of central Israel as a precaution against falling debris, but the army said it shot down the projectile before it entered Israeli territory. No injuries were reported, according to Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel's emergency medical services. Also read | Former Israeli hostage held in Gaza dies a year after her release "A missile that was launched from Yemen was intercepted before crossing into Israeli territory," the Israeli army wrote on the Telegram social media platform. "Sirens regarding rocket and missile launches were activated due to the possibility of falling shrapnel from the interception." On Tuesday, the Israeli army also said it had intercepted a projectile fired from Yemen. Yemen's Iran-backed Huthi rebels have repeatedly launched missiles against Israel in solidarity with the Palestinians since the war in Gaza began more than a year ago. Most of them have been intercepted, but on Saturday an attack on Tel Aviv injured 16 people. In recent days, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a warning to the rebels. Also read | Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says 'will act against them to remove threat' "I have instructed our forces to destroy the infrastructure of Huthis, because anyone who tries to harm us will be struck with full force," Netanyahu said, "even if it takes time". In July, a Huthi drone attack on Tel Aviv killed an Israeli civilian, prompting retaliatory strikes on the Yemeni port of Hodeidah. The Huthis have also regularly targeted shipping in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, leading to retaliatory strikes by US and sometimes British forces. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Israeli army: Intercepted a ballistic missile from Yemen

Washington, United States
In a significant legislative move, President Joe Biden signed 50 bills into law this Christmas week, including a measure that formally designates the bald eagle as the United States' national bird. Long recognised as a symbol of American power and strength, the bald eagle has graced the Great Seal of the United States since 1782 but was never officially codified as the national bird—until now.
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The new legislation amends the United States Code to correct this oversight, giving legal recognition to what many had long assumed was an established fact. The bald eagle, distinguished by its white head, yellow beak, and brown body, has been a prominent emblem of US sovereignty, appearing on military insignias, the presidential flag, and even U.S. currency.
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Bipartisan legislation designating the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States will now be headed to President Bident to be signed into law, following today's unanimous passage in the House by voice vote. The Senate passed the bill by unanimous consent in July. ??? <a href="https://t.co/ho1tSwcUgz">https://t.co/ho1tSwcUgz</a> <a href="https://t.co/bvrSunUm5M">pic.twitter.com/bvrSunUm5M</a>
— Craig Caplan (@CraigCaplan) <a href="https://twitter.com/CraigCaplan/status/1868774272891863502?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Significance of the move</h2>
The bald eagle is the symbol of America's values and independence. It is native to North America and has been featured on the Great Seal alongside an olive branch, arrows, and the motto “E Pluribus Unum.” Despite its ubiquity, the bird’s status as the national bird had never been formalised.
This bird appears on various emblems, including those of the US Air Force, the Great Seal, and the US Navy.
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By officially recognising the bird, the US underscores its commitment to preserving its heritage and natural treasures.
Interestingly, founding father Benjamin Franklin once criticized the bald eagle in a letter, calling it a "bird of bad moral character." Moreover, his preferred national bird was Turkey. Nevertheless, the bird has become synonymous with American identity.
The US Fish &amp; Wildlife Service's 2020 report estimates the bald eagle population at approximately 316,700 individuals, including 71,400 nesting pairs. This represents a fourfold increase compared to the data collected in 2009.
<h2>Other legislative highlights</h2>
On Christmas Eve, President Joe Biden signed 50 diverse bills into law, covering a wide range of topics. Key highlights include:
Legislation (H.R. 5646) establishing the first-ever federal anti-hazing standards to address violence and deaths occurring on higher education campuses around the country.
A measure (S. 1351) supported by Paris Hilton aimed at addressing child abuse in institutional facilities for at-risk youth.
The Eliminate Useless Reports Act (H.R. 5301), which would curtail the number of outdated and unnecessary reports coming out of federal agencies.
A measure (S. 932) preventing members of Congress from collecting their pensions if convicted of certain crimes.
A bill (H.R. 663) aimed at boosting tools for Native American tribes to combat child abuse and family violence.
Legislation (S. 3998) to convert temporary judicial posts in Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Hawaii, Kansas, Missouri, New Mexico, North Carolina, and Texas into permanent ones.
A measure (S. 4077)—opposed by several dozen House Republicans—to name a post office in California after the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D).
S. 5314, which names a Veterans Affairs facility in Oklahoma after the late Sen. James Inhofe (R).
Earlier this month, Biden vetoed a bill to add 66 judges to understaffed federal courts, commuted the sentences of 37 federal death-row inmates to life without parole, and granted a full pardon to his son, Hunter Biden.
<h2>A push to the finish line</h2>
As Biden’s term winds down ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, this flurry of activity reflects his efforts to cement key priorities and address long-standing issues before leaving office.

President Joe Biden capped off Christmas week by signing 50 bills into law, including historic legislation officially declaring the bald eagle as the United States' national bird. Long a symbol of American strength and unity, the bald eagle’s status is now firmly enshrined in law, alongside sweeping measures addressing new anti-hazing standards, child protection laws, and federal reforms



Washington, United States In a significant legislative move, President Joe Biden signed 50 bills into law this Christmas week, including a measure that formally designates the bald eagle as the United States' national bird. Long recognised as a symbol of American power and strength, the bald eagle has graced the Great Seal of the United States since 1782 but was never officially codified as the national bird—until now. Also read | Can Trump overturn Biden's pardons? President-elect vows to pursue death penalty 'vigorously' The new legislation amends the United States Code to correct this oversight, giving legal recognition to what many had long assumed was an established fact. The bald eagle, distinguished by its white head, yellow beak, and brown body, has been a prominent emblem of US sovereignty, appearing on military insignias, the presidential flag, and even U.S. currency. Bipartisan legislation designating the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States will now be headed to President Bident to be signed into law, following today's unanimous passage in the House by voice vote. The Senate passed the bill by unanimous consent in July. ??? https://t.co/ho1tSwcUgz pic.twitter.com/bvrSunUm5M — Craig Caplan (@CraigCaplan) December 16, 2024 × Significance of the move The bald eagle is the symbol of America's values and independence. It is native to North America and has been featured on the Great Seal alongside an olive branch, arrows, and the motto “E Pluribus Unum.” Despite its ubiquity, the bird’s status as the national bird had never been formalised. This bird appears on various emblems, including those of the US Air Force, the Great Seal, and the US Navy. Also read | Iran slams Israel for 'brazen admission' of killing Hamas leader Haniyeh, calls it 'heinous crime' By officially recognising the bird, the US underscores its commitment to preserving its heritage and natural treasures. Interestingly, founding father Benjamin Franklin once criticized the bald eagle in a letter, calling it a "bird of bad moral character." Moreover, his preferred national bird was Turkey. Nevertheless, the bird has become synonymous with American identity. The US Fish & Wildlife Service's 2020 report estimates the bald eagle population at approximately 316,700 individuals, including 71,400 nesting pairs. This represents a fourfold increase compared to the data collected in 2009. Other legislative highlights On Christmas Eve, President Joe Biden signed 50 diverse bills into law, covering a wide range of topics. Key highlights include: Legislation (H.R. 5646) establishing the first-ever federal anti-hazing standards to address violence and deaths occurring on higher education campuses around the country. A measure (S. 1351) supported by Paris Hilton aimed at addressing child abuse in institutional facilities for at-risk youth. The Eliminate Useless Reports Act (H.R. 5301), which would curtail the number of outdated and unnecessary reports coming out of federal agencies. A measure (S. 932) preventing members of Congress from collecting their pensions if convicted of certain crimes. A bill (H.R. 663) aimed at boosting tools for Native American tribes to combat child abuse and family violence. Legislation (S. 3998) to convert temporary judicial posts in Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Hawaii, Kansas, Missouri, New Mexico, North Carolina, and Texas into permanent ones. A measure (S. 4077)—opposed by several dozen House Republicans—to name a post office in California after the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D). S. 5314, which names a Veterans Affairs facility in Oklahoma after the late Sen. James Inhofe (R). Earlier this month, Biden vetoed a bill to add 66 judges to understaffed federal courts, commuted the sentences of 37 federal death-row inmates to life without parole, and granted a full pardon to his son, Hunter Biden. A push to the finish line As Biden’s term winds down ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, this flurry of activity reflects his efforts to cement key priorities and address long-standing issues before leaving office.

Bald Eagle declared US national bird as Biden enacts 50 new laws

New Delhi, India
Ace Indian shooter Manu Bhaker is likely to be included in the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award for 2024 after a stellar year where she won two bronze medals at the Paris Olympics. The new reports come amid widespread outrage that she was likely not included in the initial list.
Amid rising backlash from the sports fraternity, the Sports Ministry of India is now set to interfere and include the Olympian in the list, said the reports.
<h2>Bhaker set to be included in Khel Ratna award</h2>
The reports cited an official who said no list has been finalised for the National Sports Awards yet, and there is no question of excluding any player’s name.
A report from Hindustan Times said Bhaker will be considered for the prestigious sports award, with Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya set to take a call in the coming days. The 12-member advisory committee had submitted its initial list for the award, with Bhaker’s name being the big miss.
However, the ministry has said that the submitted list is a draft copy and has not yet been finalised.
Harmanpreet Singh, skipper and drag-flicker of the India men’s hockey team, and Praveen Kumar, para high jump gold medallist at the Paris Paralympics who also took silver in Tokyo three years ago, have been recommended.
The advisory committee was led by retired Supreme Court judge Justice V Ramasubramanian and also includes former women's hockey captain Rani Rampal, boxer Vijender Singh, and cricket great Anil Kumble among others.
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<h2>Why Bhaker should be considered for the award</h2>
At the Paris Olympics 2024, 22-year-old Bhaker became the first Indian athlete to win multiple medals in the same Games post-independence. She won bronze medals in the 10m air pistol and 10m air pistol teams event. Her achievements were the highlight reel for India at the Olympics where India won six medals. She also narrowly missed out on an Olympic medal in the 25m air pistol event.

According to the reports, Manu Bhaker’s inclusion will come after she was controversially snubbed in the first place. Amid rising backlash from the sports fraternity, the Sports Ministry of India is now set to interfere and include the Olympian in the list



New Delhi, India Ace Indian shooter Manu Bhaker is likely to be included in the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award for 2024 after a stellar year where she won two bronze medals at the Paris Olympics. The new reports come amid widespread outrage that she was likely not included in the initial list. Amid rising backlash from the sports fraternity, the Sports Ministry of India is now set to interfere and include the Olympian in the list, said the reports. Bhaker set to be included in Khel Ratna award The reports cited an official who said no list has been finalised for the National Sports Awards yet, and there is no question of excluding any player’s name. A report from Hindustan Times said Bhaker will be considered for the prestigious sports award, with Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya set to take a call in the coming days. The 12-member advisory committee had submitted its initial list for the award, with Bhaker’s name being the big miss. However, the ministry has said that the submitted list is a draft copy and has not yet been finalised. Harmanpreet Singh, skipper and drag-flicker of the India men’s hockey team, and Praveen Kumar, para high jump gold medallist at the Paris Paralympics who also took silver in Tokyo three years ago, have been recommended. The advisory committee was led by retired Supreme Court judge Justice V Ramasubramanian and also includes former women's hockey captain Rani Rampal, boxer Vijender Singh, and cricket great Anil Kumble among others. ALSO READ | BGT 2024/25: Travis Head declared fit for Boxing Day Test as Australia announce Playing XI; Konstas to debut Why Bhaker should be considered for the award At the Paris Olympics 2024, 22-year-old Bhaker became the first Indian athlete to win multiple medals in the same Games post-independence. She won bronze medals in the 10m air pistol and 10m air pistol teams event. Her achievements were the highlight reel for India at the Olympics where India won six medals. She also narrowly missed out on an Olympic medal in the 25m air pistol event.

Indian shooter Manu Bhaker to be included in final list for Khel Ratna award after controversial snub - Report

New Delhi, India 
The Israeli Army said on Tuesday (Dec 24) that military operations in southern Gaza likely contributed to Hamas' decision to kill six hostages in August. The bodies of the victims were found in an underground shaft in Rafah during Israeli operations. 
Pakistan launched airstrikes at night on Tuesday (Dec 24) in the Barmal district of Paktika province, Afghanistan. The strike led to the loss of over 25 people's lives. There has been no official confirmation from Pakistan. 

In other news, US President-elect Donald Trump has pledged that he will direct the US Justice Department to "vigorously" pursue the death penalty for perpetrators once he's the President of the United States.
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The Israeli army announced on Tuesday (Dec 24) that military operations in southern Gaza likely contributed to Hamas's decision to kill six hostages in August. The victims' bodies were discovered in an underground shaft in Rafah during Israeli operations. 
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Amid the tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Pakistan launched airstrikes at night on Tuesday (Dec 24) in the Barmal district of Paktika province, Afghanistan. The strike took over 25 lives of people, including women and children, and dismantled a training facility.
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Nigel Farage has said that he could help Peter Mandelson to secure trade negotiations with the Donald Trump administration following his recent appointment as Westminster’s ambassador to the US.
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Good morning! Start your day with WIONs daily news brief. 



New Delhi, India The Israeli Army said on Tuesday (Dec 24) that military operations in southern Gaza likely contributed to Hamas' decision to kill six hostages in August. The bodies of the victims were found in an underground shaft in Rafah during Israeli operations. Pakistan launched airstrikes at night on Tuesday (Dec 24) in the Barmal district of Paktika province, Afghanistan. The strike led to the loss of over 25 people's lives. There has been no official confirmation from Pakistan. In other news, US President-elect Donald Trump has pledged that he will direct the US Justice Department to "vigorously" pursue the death penalty for perpetrators once he's the President of the United States. Click on the headlines to read more Israel probe finds Hamas 'murdered' hostages in fear of advancing ground troops The Israeli army announced on Tuesday (Dec 24) that military operations in southern Gaza likely contributed to Hamas's decision to kill six hostages in August. The victims' bodies were discovered in an underground shaft in Rafah during Israeli operations. Pakistan launches airstrike in Afghanistan; civilians suffer, no official confirmation from Islamabad Amid the tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Pakistan launched airstrikes at night on Tuesday (Dec 24) in the Barmal district of Paktika province, Afghanistan. The strike took over 25 lives of people, including women and children, and dismantled a training facility. Nigel Farage ready to work with Peter Mandelson to secure trade deal with Trump Nigel Farage has said that he could help Peter Mandelson to secure trade negotiations with the Donald Trump administration following his recent appointment as Westminster’s ambassador to the US. Can Trump overturn Biden's pardons? President-elect vows to pursue death penalty 'vigorously' US President-elect Donald Trump has vowed that he will direct the US Justice Department to "vigorously" pursue the death penalty for perpetrators once he's the President of the United States. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Will European Troops Enforce A Ceasefire In Ukraine?

Morning news brief: Pak launches strikes on Afghanistan; Israel-Hamas war updates, and more

London
British right-wing politician Nigel Farage has said he could help UK's envoy to US Peter Mandelson secure a trade deal with the Donald Trump administration.
The Reform UK leader told The Telegraph newspaper that he is ready to use his connections with the administration to help prevent hefty trade tariffs, starting with financial regulations.
Lord Mandelson has suggested that Farage’s friendship with the Republican president-elect could serve as a link between the UK and US administrations.
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Amid the debate among Labour MPs about whether Mandelson should take on his help, Farage has indicated that he would support the national concern regardless of party politics.
“I am no fan of any of the people in the Labour Party, but if it is in the national interest I have always thought I could be a useful asset if they want to use that – but if they don’t, more fool them,” Farage said.
Farage believes he can act as a bridge between the UK and the Trump administration in areas including trade, tariffs, intelligence-sharing and countering terrorism as “a lot of the members of the President’s cabinet are friends of mine, and many of them long-term friends”.
“I know these people, and in terms of trade, in terms of defence and in terms of intelligence, the US is our most important relationship in the world – forget Brussels,” he added.
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Lord Mandelson has previously stated that a Labour-appointed ambassador to the US should “swallow” their pride and join hands with “friends” of the US administration like Farage to maintain relations and avoid a trade war.
However, senior members of the party are concerned the move may “elevate” the status of Farage and the Reform party, which may be upsetting for many Labour supporters.
Meanwhile, Farage argued that personal relationships matter at all levels in life. "It doesn’t matter how high you go, wherever you go these relationships matter.”
“There has to be a proper negotiation around tariffs and trade. The opportunity for sectoral free trade relationships is very, very high,” he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

The Reform UK leader told The Telegraph that he is ready to use his connections with the administration to help prevent hefty trade tariffs, starting with financial regulations



London British right-wing politician Nigel Farage has said he could help UK's envoy to US Peter Mandelson secure a trade deal with the Donald Trump administration. The Reform UK leader told The Telegraph newspaper that he is ready to use his connections with the administration to help prevent hefty trade tariffs, starting with financial regulations. Lord Mandelson has suggested that Farage’s friendship with the Republican president-elect could serve as a link between the UK and US administrations. Also read | Can Trump overturn Biden's pardons? President-elect vows to pursue death penalty 'vigorously' Amid the debate among Labour MPs about whether Mandelson should take on his help, Farage has indicated that he would support the national concern regardless of party politics. “I am no fan of any of the people in the Labour Party, but if it is in the national interest I have always thought I could be a useful asset if they want to use that – but if they don’t, more fool them,” Farage said. Farage believes he can act as a bridge between the UK and the Trump administration in areas including trade, tariffs, intelligence-sharing and countering terrorism as “a lot of the members of the President’s cabinet are friends of mine, and many of them long-term friends”. “I know these people, and in terms of trade, in terms of defence and in terms of intelligence, the US is our most important relationship in the world – forget Brussels,” he added. Also read | Major global crisis 'much more likely' in Trump's second term due to..., says his ex-NSA Lord Mandelson has previously stated that a Labour-appointed ambassador to the US should “swallow” their pride and join hands with “friends” of the US administration like Farage to maintain relations and avoid a trade war. However, senior members of the party are concerned the move may “elevate” the status of Farage and the Reform party, which may be upsetting for many Labour supporters. Meanwhile, Farage argued that personal relationships matter at all levels in life. "It doesn’t matter how high you go, wherever you go these relationships matter.” “There has to be a proper negotiation around tariffs and trade. The opportunity for sectoral free trade relationships is very, very high,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Nigel Farage ready to work with UK envoy to US Peter Mandelson to secure trade deal with Trump

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Brazilian international midfielder Oscar, who played for Chelsea, is returning to Sao Paulo, where he started his career, the club announced on Tuesday.
"Welcome, Oscar, what a great addition," read text at the end of a video posted on the club's social media accounts.
Oscar -- whose full name is Oscar dos Santos Emboaba Junior, and who is aged 33 -- became a free agent after spending eight seasons in China with Shanghai Port, where he arrived in 2017 after leaving Chelsea.
The attacking midfielder started his career at Sao Paulo and made his first-team debut in 2008.
Two years later, he transferred to another Brazilian club, Internacional de Porto Alegre, in a controversial move that sparked a long legal dispute.
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An Olympic bronze medalist with Brazil's U23 team at the London 2012 Games, Oscar later moved to England, playing for Chelsea, where he scored 38 goals in 203 matches.
In four-and-a-half years with the Blues, he won four trophies, including two Premier League titles (2014-2015 and 2016-2017), the Europa League (2013), and the English League Cup (2015).
Oscar scored 12 goals in 48 games for Brazil. The most famous was the only one Brazil scored in their 7-1 defeat to Germany in the semi-finals of the 2014 World Cup on home soil.
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.

Oscar -- whose full name is Oscar dos Santos Emboaba Junior, and who is aged 33 -- became a free agent after spending eight seasons in China with Shanghai Port, where he arrived in 2017 after leaving Chelsea.



Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Brazilian international midfielder Oscar, who played for Chelsea, is returning to Sao Paulo, where he started his career, the club announced on Tuesday. "Welcome, Oscar, what a great addition," read text at the end of a video posted on the club's social media accounts. Oscar -- whose full name is Oscar dos Santos Emboaba Junior, and who is aged 33 -- became a free agent after spending eight seasons in China with Shanghai Port, where he arrived in 2017 after leaving Chelsea. The attacking midfielder started his career at Sao Paulo and made his first-team debut in 2008. Two years later, he transferred to another Brazilian club, Internacional de Porto Alegre, in a controversial move that sparked a long legal dispute. ALSO READ | Premier League: 'Just reality,' Enzo Maresca says Chelsea not in title race but backs slumping Manchester City An Olympic bronze medalist with Brazil's U23 team at the London 2012 Games, Oscar later moved to England, playing for Chelsea, where he scored 38 goals in 203 matches. In four-and-a-half years with the Blues, he won four trophies, including two Premier League titles (2014-2015 and 2016-2017), the Europa League (2013), and the English League Cup (2015). Oscar scored 12 goals in 48 games for Brazil. The most famous was the only one Brazil scored in their 7-1 defeat to Germany in the semi-finals of the 2014 World Cup on home soil. 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.

Brazilian midfielder Oscar returns to Sao Paulo after eight years with Chinese side Shanghai Port

New Delhi
Telugu actor Allu Arjun on Tuesday appeared before the Hyderabad police for questioning in connection with the theatre stampede case that led to the death of a woman on December 4. 
The actor's lawyer told the media that he "cooperated with the cops fully" and is expected to appear again before police if required.
According to the news agency PTI, the police's interrogation was centred around the actor's entry into the theatre, exit, and role of the bouncers.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/allu-arjun-refused-to-leave-hyderabad-theatre-after-learning-about-womans-death-alleges-police-786125">Allu Arjun refused to leave Hyderabad theatre after learning about woman's death, alleges police</a>
Earlier, the police had alleged that Allu Arjun had not paid heed to the advice of the police on December 4 and did not leave the theatre premises even after being informed about the woman's death. 
On Tuesday, the actor arrived at the Chikkadpally police station in Hyderabad at around 11 am with his father, Allu Aravind, and lawyers. He was questioned by a police team led by Central Zone DCP Akshansh Yadav. The questioning ended at around 2.45 pm.
While speaking to PTI, Arjun's advocate said, "He cooperated with the police fully. If required, they said they'd call him again. They (the police) wanted to question him and he cooperated. They treated him very well."
What did the cops ask Allu Arjun?
Police asked the actor about his awareness of the denied permission for the visit and details about his private security arrangements. They alleged that his bouncers pushed fans, leading to the stampede. 
Police also reportedly questioned him about his knowledge of the tragic incident during the screening of Pushpa 2 on December 4. They also asked him to give a detailed account of the events. Sources stated to PTI that police documented Allu Arjun's statement regarding the case. 
Arjun was seen returning to his Jubilee Hills residence post-interrogation. 
The actor had addressed the press on December 21 and had given a detailed account of the December 4 event. Arjun described the stampede as accidental and contested Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy's claims about a pre-screening roadshow. 
The incident resulted in the death of a 35-year-old woman and the hospitalisation of her eight-year-old son, who remains critical. 
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Police asked the actor about his awareness of the denied permission for the visit and details about his private security arrangements. They alleged that his bouncers pushed fans, leading to the stampede. 



New Delhi Telugu actor Allu Arjun on Tuesday appeared before the Hyderabad police for questioning in connection with the theatre stampede case that led to the death of a woman on December 4. The actor's lawyer told the media that he "cooperated with the cops fully" and is expected to appear again before police if required. According to the news agency PTI, the police's interrogation was centred around the actor's entry into the theatre, exit, and role of the bouncers. Allu Arjun refused to leave Hyderabad theatre after learning about woman's death, alleges police Earlier, the police had alleged that Allu Arjun had not paid heed to the advice of the police on December 4 and did not leave the theatre premises even after being informed about the woman's death. On Tuesday, the actor arrived at the Chikkadpally police station in Hyderabad at around 11 am with his father, Allu Aravind, and lawyers. He was questioned by a police team led by Central Zone DCP Akshansh Yadav. The questioning ended at around 2.45 pm. While speaking to PTI, Arjun's advocate said, "He cooperated with the police fully. If required, they said they'd call him again. They (the police) wanted to question him and he cooperated. They treated him very well." What did the cops ask Allu Arjun? Police asked the actor about his awareness of the denied permission for the visit and details about his private security arrangements. They alleged that his bouncers pushed fans, leading to the stampede. Police also reportedly questioned him about his knowledge of the tragic incident during the screening of Pushpa 2 on December 4. They also asked him to give a detailed account of the events. Sources stated to PTI that police documented Allu Arjun's statement regarding the case. Arjun was seen returning to his Jubilee Hills residence post-interrogation. The actor had addressed the press on December 21 and had given a detailed account of the December 4 event. Arjun described the stampede as accidental and contested Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy's claims about a pre-screening roadshow. The incident resulted in the death of a 35-year-old woman and the hospitalisation of her eight-year-old son, who remains critical.

Pushpa 2 stampede case: Questions that cops asked Allu Arjun 

United Kingdom
Enzo Maresca believes Manchester City will bounce back into Premier League title contention, while insisting it is "just reality" that Chelsea are not genuine challengers for the crown.
Chelsea go into Thursday's west London derby at home to Fulham second in the table and just four points adrift of leaders Liverpool, having played one game more than the Merseysiders.
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By contrast City, for all they have won an unprecedented four straight Premier League titles before this season, are now 12 points off the summit following a woeful run of nine defeats in 12 matches in all competitions.
But Maresca, who worked alongside City boss Pep Guardiola at the Etihad, said: "Manchester City at the end will be there. They are in a moment that has never happened before.
"Every time they play a game, they have an injury, and they don't have enough players in this moment. And the ones they have are not 100 percent because they have just come back from injury, so it is a very bad situation.
"We are ahead of our expectations, in terms of the way we are playing, and the points we have, but the main focus is how we can improve the players and how we can improve the team."
Maresca, who has repeatedly dismissed any title talk concerning Chelsea, added: "It is not about the (title) pressure for the players or for the club or for me, it is just the reality.
"I would like to have that kind of pressure and hopefully soon we can, but the reason why I said we are not there yet, is because the reality is that we are not."
Maresca, asked if it was now Liverpool's title to lose, replied: "No, the reality says we are second at the halfway point, so the table does reflect the teams.
"But Liverpool have done a fantastic job since the first day, and the squad has lived that kind of moment, winning a trophy, which is important.
"Last year, when Liverpool faced Chelsea in the Carabao (League) Cup final I saw the amount of finals that Liverpool players had played in, and the number of finals Chelsea players had played in, and there was a huge difference. So it shows the experience you need, but we are happy to be where we are."
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.

Maresca, who worked alongside City boss Pep Guardiola at the Etihad, said: "Manchester City at the end will be there."



United Kingdom Enzo Maresca believes Manchester City will bounce back into Premier League title contention, while insisting it is "just reality" that Chelsea are not genuine challengers for the crown. Chelsea go into Thursday's west London derby at home to Fulham second in the table and just four points adrift of leaders Liverpool, having played one game more than the Merseysiders. Also Read: 'Doing things my way,' says Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim amid Rashford row By contrast City, for all they have won an unprecedented four straight Premier League titles before this season, are now 12 points off the summit following a woeful run of nine defeats in 12 matches in all competitions. But Maresca, who worked alongside City boss Pep Guardiola at the Etihad, said: "Manchester City at the end will be there. They are in a moment that has never happened before. "Every time they play a game, they have an injury, and they don't have enough players in this moment. And the ones they have are not 100 percent because they have just come back from injury, so it is a very bad situation. "We are ahead of our expectations, in terms of the way we are playing, and the points we have, but the main focus is how we can improve the players and how we can improve the team." Maresca, who has repeatedly dismissed any title talk concerning Chelsea, added: "It is not about the (title) pressure for the players or for the club or for me, it is just the reality. "I would like to have that kind of pressure and hopefully soon we can, but the reason why I said we are not there yet, is because the reality is that we are not." Maresca, asked if it was now Liverpool's title to lose, replied: "No, the reality says we are second at the halfway point, so the table does reflect the teams. "But Liverpool have done a fantastic job since the first day, and the squad has lived that kind of moment, winning a trophy, which is important. "Last year, when Liverpool faced Chelsea in the Carabao (League) Cup final I saw the amount of finals that Liverpool players had played in, and the number of finals Chelsea players had played in, and there was a huge difference. So it shows the experience you need, but we are happy to be where we are." 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.

Premier League: 'Just reality,' Enzo Maresca says Chelsea not in title race but backs slumping Manchester City

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