Melbourne, Australia
Virat Kohli was left upset after an Australian journalist clicked his and his family’s photo upon his arrival at the Melbourne airport ahead of the Boxing Day Test at the MCG. Kohli confronted the female journalist, who breached his privacy and recorded his arrival in the city with his wife and kids, irking the Indian batting great.
Per a video doing rounds on social media, Kohli wasn’t happy with the journalist snapping him without his consent; Virat approached her and requested to revisit what she clicked, later asking her to delete it. That, however, led to a little argument. 
ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wouldnt-have-let-ashwin-retire-like-this-kapil-dev-left-disappointed-says-spinner-deserves-respect-785247">Wouldn't have let Ashwin retire like this: Kapil Dev left disappointed, says spinner deserves 'respect'</a>
Virat also requested his country’s media not to click him (and his family) while boarding the flight to Australia.
"With my kids, I need some privacy. You can't film without asking me," Virat said at the MCG airport, as quoted by India Today.
<h2>Virat and Bumrah travel separately </h2>
Unlike travelling with the BGT-bound Test squad together, Virat and ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah have been travelling separately with their families within cities Down Under. 
While Kohli and Bumrah travelled on a chartered flight from Adelaide to Brisbane - the venues for the second and third Tests, respectively, Kohli did not travel with the rest of the squad from Brisbane to Melbourne either, re-linking with them separately. 
<h3>Rough patch after Perth hundred</h3>
Virat’s form has kept a billion fans back home on their toes. The batting genius has been out of touch since the home New Zealand series, where he scored 91 runs from six outings. 
Against Australia, Virat got out cheaply in the first innings at the Optus stadium before notching up a brilliant hundred in the second, guiding India home in the series opener. His scores since that outing read 7, 11 and 3, keeping everyone worried about his lean patch. 
However, his record at the G speaks a lot about  Virat run at the ground. He could fancy his chances of regaining some form, trying to put India ahead in the WTC Final 2025 race. Kohli can ensure that by avoiding flirting the fifth stump line, which happened to get the better of him mostly.
Meanwhile, for India to confirm direct qualification, they must win the remaining two matches against Australia, besides hoping for South Africa to beat Pakistan to avoid any last-minute hiccups. 
Should India win at the MCG and the SCG, they will complete a three-peat Down Under, becoming the first team to win three straight Test series in Australia. 
(With inputs from agencies)

Virat also requested his country’s media not to click him (and his family) while boarding the flight to Australia.



Melbourne, Australia Virat Kohli was left upset after an Australian journalist clicked his and his family’s photo upon his arrival at the Melbourne airport ahead of the Boxing Day Test at the MCG. Kohli confronted the female journalist, who breached his privacy and recorded his arrival in the city with his wife and kids, irking the Indian batting great. Per a video doing rounds on social media, Kohli wasn’t happy with the journalist snapping him without his consent; Virat approached her and requested to revisit what she clicked, later asking her to delete it. That, however, led to a little argument. ALSO READ: Wouldn't have let Ashwin retire like this: Kapil Dev left disappointed, says spinner deserves 'respect' Virat also requested his country’s media not to click him (and his family) while boarding the flight to Australia. "With my kids, I need some privacy. You can't film without asking me," Virat said at the MCG airport, as quoted by India Today. Virat and Bumrah travel separately Unlike travelling with the BGT-bound Test squad together, Virat and ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah have been travelling separately with their families within cities Down Under. While Kohli and Bumrah travelled on a chartered flight from Adelaide to Brisbane - the venues for the second and third Tests, respectively, Kohli did not travel with the rest of the squad from Brisbane to Melbourne either, re-linking with them separately. Rough patch after Perth hundred Virat’s form has kept a billion fans back home on their toes. The batting genius has been out of touch since the home New Zealand series, where he scored 91 runs from six outings. Against Australia, Virat got out cheaply in the first innings at the Optus stadium before notching up a brilliant hundred in the second, guiding India home in the series opener. His scores since that outing read 7, 11 and 3, keeping everyone worried about his lean patch. However, his record at the G speaks a lot about Virat run at the ground. He could fancy his chances of regaining some form, trying to put India ahead in the WTC Final 2025 race. Kohli can ensure that by avoiding flirting the fifth stump line, which happened to get the better of him mostly. Meanwhile, for India to confirm direct qualification, they must win the remaining two matches against Australia, besides hoping for South Africa to beat Pakistan to avoid any last-minute hiccups. Should India win at the MCG and the SCG, they will complete a three-peat Down Under, becoming the first team to win three straight Test series in Australia. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Privacy breach at Melbourne airport upsets Virat Kohli, confronts local journalist

Australia
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Most of us have heard of the meme- "What are those?"- where a man asks a police officer about his work boots in a startled manner. This meme is years old but remains relevant. 
A 28-year-old corporate worker in Australia was roasted for wearing an unusual pair of shoes to her office. The woman, identified as Chloe Andrews, took to social media to share that she was absolutely roasted for wearing Tabi shoes to the office.
<h2>The reactions </h2>
Andrews, who has more than 15,000 followers on TikTok, posted a video of her going to the office wearing the Tabi shoes and filming the reactions of her co-workers.
Most of the people in her office just hated her footwear. 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-york-man-discovers-complete-mastodon-jaw-in-his-backyard-785199">New York man discovers complete mastodon jaw in his backyard</a>
A report by news.com.au said that the most brutal response to Andrews' footwear was from a co-worker who said that the shoes made the 28-year-old look like a "farm animal."
One male co-worker, while rubbing his neck, asked, “What are those?” and, when Ms Andrews gave him some context about her shoes, he simply replied, “I don’t get it.”
The report said that her co-workers were Googling cow hoofs to compare them to her shoes. 
The most supportive response was from two Gen Z employees who weren’t negative about her shoe choice and instead hyped her up - one even clapped and said, “Yass!”
<h2>What is Tabi?</h2>
Tabi- also known as split-toed shoes- originated in 15th century Japan where the elite used to wear split-toe socks thought to aid in physical balance with their thonged sandals and shoes.
As cotton routes opened to China later and rubber soles were added, the socks became jika-tabi, shoes worn by blue-collar workers in Japan, a report by Harpers Bazaar said.
The Tabi shoes were launched in the late 1980s. 
(With inputs from agencies)

Tabi- also known as split-toed shoes- originated in 15th century Japan where the elite used to wear split-toe socks thought to aid in physical balance with their thonged sandals and shoes.



Australia Most of us have heard of the meme- "What are those?"- where a man asks a police officer about his work boots in a startled manner. This meme is years old but remains relevant. A 28-year-old corporate worker in Australia was roasted for wearing an unusual pair of shoes to her office. The woman, identified as Chloe Andrews, took to social media to share that she was absolutely roasted for wearing Tabi shoes to the office. The reactions Andrews, who has more than 15,000 followers on TikTok, posted a video of her going to the office wearing the Tabi shoes and filming the reactions of her co-workers. Most of the people in her office just hated her footwear. Also read | New York man discovers complete mastodon jaw in his backyard A report by news.com.au said that the most brutal response to Andrews' footwear was from a co-worker who said that the shoes made the 28-year-old look like a "farm animal." One male co-worker, while rubbing his neck, asked, “What are those?” and, when Ms Andrews gave him some context about her shoes, he simply replied, “I don’t get it.” The report said that her co-workers were Googling cow hoofs to compare them to her shoes. The most supportive response was from two Gen Z employees who weren’t negative about her shoe choice and instead hyped her up - one even clapped and said, “Yass!” What is Tabi? Tabi- also known as split-toed shoes- originated in 15th century Japan where the elite used to wear split-toe socks thought to aid in physical balance with their thonged sandals and shoes. As cotton routes opened to China later and rubber soles were added, the socks became jika-tabi, shoes worn by blue-collar workers in Japan, a report by Harpers Bazaar said. The Tabi shoes were launched in the late 1980s. (With inputs from agencies)

What are those?: Australian corporate worker roasted for wearing unusual shoes to office

Paris
Dominique Pelicot was found guilty by a French court of five judges on Thursday (Dec 19) of drugging and the mass rape of his then-wife Gisèle Pelicot.
The 72-year-old man has been handed the maximum sentence of 20 years in prison for his charges. He had been accused of repeatedly raping and enlisting strangers to abuse his heavily sedated wife for over a decade.
Pelicot was also found guilty of the attempted aggravated rape of the wife of one of the co-accused, Jean Pierre Marechal, Cillia, and taking indecent images of his daughter, Caroline, and his daughters-in-law, Aurore and Celine.
As the verdict was announced, Dominique bent down and started crying in court.
Watch: France: Mass rape shocks nation, support pours in for survivor Gisele

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Apart from Dominique, all 50 other men have also been found guilty of the charges against them, including some who pleaded not guilty. However, some of them were given shorter sentence periods than what was asked by the prosecutors. 
For instance, Jacques C. has been awarded a 5-year suspended prison sentence, allowing him to walk free today itself. As the judges read out the judgment, some gasps could be heard inside the courtroom. 
Cyrille D, Lionel R and Boris M were given just eight years behind bars, although the prosecutors had asked for a 12-year jail term. Another defendant, named Redouan A. was found guilty, but the judge reduced his sentence owing to his diagnosis as schizophrenic.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwjU8qqDzrOKAxWpTmwGHRSrFnMQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-mass-rape-case-accused-man-a-father-of-three-admits-to-sexual-assault-of-gisele-pelicot-760285" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/france-mass-rape-case-accused-man-a-father-of-three-admits-to-sexual-assault-of-gisele-pelicot-760285&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjU8qqDzrOKAxWpTmwGHRSrFnMQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">France mass rape case: Accused man, a father of three, admits to sexual assault of Gisele Pelicot</a>
At least five of the accused won't be sent to prison immediately owing to their bad health. “Several of the convicted men will not be taken to prison immediately because of their health. A few more days of freedom while we find a suitable prison,” Presiding Judge Roger Arata said.
On the other hand, some of the accused were given harsher sentences spanning over a decade. Romain V., who visited the Pelicot house six times, was awarded a 15-year prison sentence. Charly A., who also visited six times, was given 13 years.
(With inputs from agencies)

Pelicot has also been found guilty of the attempted aggravated rape of the wife of one of the co-accused, Jean Pierre Marechal, Cillia, and taking indecent images of his daughter, Caroline, and his daughters-in-law, Aurore and Celine.



Paris Dominique Pelicot was found guilty by a French court of five judges on Thursday (Dec 19) of drugging and the mass rape of his then-wife Gisèle Pelicot. The 72-year-old man has been handed the maximum sentence of 20 years in prison for his charges. He had been accused of repeatedly raping and enlisting strangers to abuse his heavily sedated wife for over a decade. Pelicot was also found guilty of the attempted aggravated rape of the wife of one of the co-accused, Jean Pierre Marechal, Cillia, and taking indecent images of his daughter, Caroline, and his daughters-in-law, Aurore and Celine. As the verdict was announced, Dominique bent down and started crying in court. Watch: France: Mass rape shocks nation, support pours in for survivor Gisele × Apart from Dominique, all 50 other men have also been found guilty of the charges against them, including some who pleaded not guilty. However, some of them were given shorter sentence periods than what was asked by the prosecutors. For instance, Jacques C. has been awarded a 5-year suspended prison sentence, allowing him to walk free today itself. As the judges read out the judgment, some gasps could be heard inside the courtroom. Cyrille D, Lionel R and Boris M were given just eight years behind bars, although the prosecutors had asked for a 12-year jail term. Another defendant, named Redouan A. was found guilty, but the judge reduced his sentence owing to his diagnosis as schizophrenic. Also read: France mass rape case: Accused man, a father of three, admits to sexual assault of Gisele Pelicot At least five of the accused won't be sent to prison immediately owing to their bad health. “Several of the convicted men will not be taken to prison immediately because of their health. A few more days of freedom while we find a suitable prison,” Presiding Judge Roger Arata said. On the other hand, some of the accused were given harsher sentences spanning over a decade. Romain V., who visited the Pelicot house six times, was awarded a 15-year prison sentence. Charly A., who also visited six times, was given 13 years. (With inputs from agencies)

France mass rape trial: Dominique Pelicot found guilty, sentenced to 20 years in prison

New Delhi, India 
Former Indian captain Kapil Dev expressed his disappointment with R Ashwin not getting a proper farewell post his decision to retire from international cricket on Wednesday (Dec 18). After the India-Australia third Test at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw, Ashwin announced his international retirement and flew back to India on Thursday (Dec 19). However, Kapil feels he should have received a proper farewell.
<h2>'I wish I had been there, I wouldn't have let him go like that'</h2>
"The next generation has to be better than us. If not, the world is not going ahead. We never imagined that somebody would come close to Sachin Tendulkar or Sunil Gavaskar...Ashwin has gone. I wish I had been there, I wouldn't have let him go like that. I would have sent him with a lot of respect and happiness," Kapil said, as quoted by ANI.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/i-have-zero-regrets-want-to-play-for-csk-as-long-as-possible-says-r-ashwin-post-his-international-retirement-785224">I have zero regrets, want to play for CSK as long as possible, says R Ashwin post his international retirement</a>
Ashwin signed off from international cricket with 765 wickets, second highest overall among Indians. In Tests, he represented India in 106 games and claimed 537 scalps, second-most by an Indian and seventh-overall, whereas he accounted for 228 wickets in white-ball formats overall. The 38-year-old wily off-spinner was part of India's memorable wins in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. Ashwin also played a huge role in India's unbeaten run in home Tests, spanning from 2013-2024 (which ended in October).
Ashwin played only a solitary Test in the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) between India and Australia Down Under. With the Rohit Sharma-led team management preferring Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja over him, it reportedly prompted him to take the big call on his career.

Former Indian captain Kapil Dev is disappointed with R Ashwin's retirement and stated that he wouldn't have let him bow out like this.



New Delhi, India Former Indian captain Kapil Dev expressed his disappointment with R Ashwin not getting a proper farewell post his decision to retire from international cricket on Wednesday (Dec 18). After the India-Australia third Test at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw, Ashwin announced his international retirement and flew back to India on Thursday (Dec 19). However, Kapil feels he should have received a proper farewell. 'I wish I had been there, I wouldn't have let him go like that' "The next generation has to be better than us. If not, the world is not going ahead. We never imagined that somebody would come close to Sachin Tendulkar or Sunil Gavaskar...Ashwin has gone. I wish I had been there, I wouldn't have let him go like that. I would have sent him with a lot of respect and happiness," Kapil said, as quoted by ANI. Also read: I have zero regrets, want to play for CSK as long as possible, says R Ashwin post his international retirement Ashwin signed off from international cricket with 765 wickets, second highest overall among Indians. In Tests, he represented India in 106 games and claimed 537 scalps, second-most by an Indian and seventh-overall, whereas he accounted for 228 wickets in white-ball formats overall. The 38-year-old wily off-spinner was part of India's memorable wins in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. Ashwin also played a huge role in India's unbeaten run in home Tests, spanning from 2013-2024 (which ended in October). Ashwin played only a solitary Test in the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) between India and Australia Down Under. With the Rohit Sharma-led team management preferring Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja over him, it reportedly prompted him to take the big call on his career.

Wouldn't have let Ashwin retire like this: Kapil Dev disappointed, says spinner deserves 'respect'

Hanoi
Major US weapons manufacturers including Boeing and Lockheed Martin, along with Europe's Airbus and Chinese firms, put their wares on show at an arms fair in Hanoi Thursday as Vietnam looks to diversify its defence supplies away from Russia.
A US Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt attack aircraft and a C-130 Super Hercules transport were on the tarmac at Hanoi's Gia Lam military airfield for the event.
Thousands of people attended including hundreds of uniformed Vietnamese soldiers, some of whom posed for selfies with US troops, ahead of next year's 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War.
The defence expo featured Chinese firms for the first time, including major state-owned defence conglomerate Norinco, or China North Industries Corporation.
Successive Vietnamese governments have been heavily reliant on arms supplied by Russia for decades.
The country accounted for more than 80 percent of Vietnam's arms imports between 1995 and 2023, according to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). 
But imports from Russia have dropped off in recent years amid international sanctions over its invasion of Ukraine.
"The war in Ukraine has exposed the vulnerabilities of relying too heavily on Russian arms," said Nguyen Khac Giang, a visiting fellow at the ISEAS–Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwiivpWu1LOKAxU9TGwGHXi1IXgQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-man-arrested-for-flying-drone-over-us-military-base-783463" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-man-arrested-for-flying-drone-over-us-military-base-783463&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiivpWu1LOKAxU9TGwGHXi1IXgQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Chinese man arrested for flying drone over US military base</a>
"Diversification isn't just a necessity, it's an opportunity for Vietnam to upgrade to more advanced systems while reducing dependence on any single partner," Giang said.
"The expo is Vietnam's way of signalling it's open to new partnerships."
Boeing and Lockheed Martin were among 14 American companies at the fair, while two exhibitors were Chinese and others were from Germany, Iran, Israel and Ukraine, as well as Russia.
As well as aircraft, they put on display tanks, missiles, drones, firearms and radar systems, including by several Vietnamese firms.
At the opening ceremony, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh described the expo as "delivering a message of peace, cooperation, and shared development".
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.

Thousands of people attended including hundreds of uniformed Vietnamese soldiers, some of whom posed for selfies with US troops, ahead of next year's 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War.



Hanoi Major US weapons manufacturers including Boeing and Lockheed Martin, along with Europe's Airbus and Chinese firms, put their wares on show at an arms fair in Hanoi Thursday as Vietnam looks to diversify its defence supplies away from Russia. A US Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt attack aircraft and a C-130 Super Hercules transport were on the tarmac at Hanoi's Gia Lam military airfield for the event. Thousands of people attended including hundreds of uniformed Vietnamese soldiers, some of whom posed for selfies with US troops, ahead of next year's 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War. The defence expo featured Chinese firms for the first time, including major state-owned defence conglomerate Norinco, or China North Industries Corporation. Successive Vietnamese governments have been heavily reliant on arms supplied by Russia for decades. The country accounted for more than 80 percent of Vietnam's arms imports between 1995 and 2023, according to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). But imports from Russia have dropped off in recent years amid international sanctions over its invasion of Ukraine. "The war in Ukraine has exposed the vulnerabilities of relying too heavily on Russian arms," said Nguyen Khac Giang, a visiting fellow at the ISEAS–Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore. Also read: Chinese man arrested for flying drone over US military base "Diversification isn't just a necessity, it's an opportunity for Vietnam to upgrade to more advanced systems while reducing dependence on any single partner," Giang said. "The expo is Vietnam's way of signalling it's open to new partnerships." Boeing and Lockheed Martin were among 14 American companies at the fair, while two exhibitors were Chinese and others were from Germany, Iran, Israel and Ukraine, as well as Russia. As well as aircraft, they put on display tanks, missiles, drones, firearms and radar systems, including by several Vietnamese firms. At the opening ceremony, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh described the expo as "delivering a message of peace, cooperation, and shared development". 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.

US, European, Chinese firms seeking drawing Vietnam arms deals from Russia

New Delhi, India
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On Wednesday (Dec 18), Allu Arjun's father and known film producer Allu Aravind visited Sri Teja, the eight-year-old boy who got critically injured in a stampede during the premiere of Pushpa 2: The Rule in Hyderabad.
Allu Aravind's hospital visit comes when his son is getting a lot of backlash for not visiting the minor victim at the hospital.
<h2>Allu Aravind visits the hospital</h2>
A few days after Allu Arjun's arrest in a case related to a woman's death named Revathi in a stampede in Hyderabad, the actor's father visited the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/allu-arjuns-pushpa-2-stampede-8-year-old-boy-on-ventilator-support-says-hospital-784143"> young boy,</a> who is still in the ICU. 
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pushpa-2-box-office-allu-arjun-starrer-mints-97-billion-in-just-two-weeks-785109">Pushpa 2 box office: Allu Arjun starrer mints Rs 9.7 billion in just two weeks</a>
A video of his visit released on social media platforms showed the producer Aravind talking about the young boy. Sharing an update on his health, he said, “I just visited Sri Tej in the ICU. I have spoken to the doctors looking after him. The boy has been recovering slowly in the last 10 days, but it might take longer," as reported by Hindustan Times
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Producer Allu Aravind garu visited Sri Tej at the hospital after obtaining all necessary permissions from the government and police authorities.
He stated that Sri Tej has shown considerable improvement over the past 10 days. He also noted that, due to legal restrictions… <a href="https://t.co/8pPSxkOI1r">pic.twitter.com/8pPSxkOI1r</a>
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Assuring full support to the victim, he said, ''We are ready to support in any way we can to help him recover. I am thankful that the government has also stepped forward to help him reach normalcy.” 
<h2>Allu Aravind on why Allu Arjun is not visiting the hospital</h2>
Talking about why his son was unable to visit the hospital, the film producer revealed that the actor wanted to meet the victim the next day of the stampede, but he was stopped by the hospital authorities, who advised him not to visit the hospital. Also due to the legal case that had been filed, his legal team strongly advised him not to meet the victim or his family.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pushpa-2-stampede-case-telangana-police-likely-to-challenge-allu-arjuns-bail-784642">Pushpa 2 stampede case: Telangana police likely to challenge Allu Arjun’s bail</a>
“Many people wonder why Allu Arjun hasn’t visited the hospital yet. He wanted to visit them the day after the stampede. However, the hospital authorities asked them to stay put for safety reasons. It’s the same day a case was filed against him,” Aravind said.
“Our legal team also advised Bunny not to go to the hospital or meet the parents. I have taken permission from the authorities to visit the boy today because he felt bad he couldn’t visit them. I thank CM Revanth Reddy, the police and the hospital authorities for agreeing,” he added.
<h2>Pushpa 2 stampede and Allu Arjun's arrest</h2>
The incident occurred on Dec 4 when Allu Arjun appeared unexpectedly at Sandhya Theatre in Hyderabad during a Pushpa 2 screening. However, things went wrong when the crowd went berserk due to the actor's presence, leading to a stampede.
The event took a tragic turn when a 35-year-old female fan named Revathi died after sustaining serious injuries. While her son got critically injured in the incident. Days later, Hyderabad police filed a case against Arjun, his security team, and the theatre management. The actor was arrested on Dec 13, however, he was granted interim bail on the same day by the Bombay High Court.

The incident occurred on Dec 4 when Allu Arjun appeared surprisedly at Sandhya Theatre in Hyderabad during the Pushpa 2 screening. However, things went wrong when the crowd went berserk due to the actor's presence, which led to a stampede-like situation. 



New Delhi, India On Wednesday (Dec 18), Allu Arjun's father and known film producer Allu Aravind visited Sri Teja, the eight-year-old boy who got critically injured in a stampede during the premiere of Pushpa 2: The Rule in Hyderabad. Allu Aravind's hospital visit comes when his son is getting a lot of backlash for not visiting the minor victim at the hospital. Allu Aravind visits the hospital A few days after Allu Arjun's arrest in a case related to a woman's death named Revathi in a stampede in Hyderabad, the actor's father visited the young boy, who is still in the ICU. Also read: Pushpa 2 box office: Allu Arjun starrer mints Rs 9.7 billion in just two weeks A video of his visit released on social media platforms showed the producer Aravind talking about the young boy. Sharing an update on his health, he said, “I just visited Sri Tej in the ICU. I have spoken to the doctors looking after him. The boy has been recovering slowly in the last 10 days, but it might take longer," as reported by Hindustan Times Producer Allu Aravind garu visited Sri Tej at the hospital after obtaining all necessary permissions from the government and police authorities. He stated that Sri Tej has shown considerable improvement over the past 10 days. He also noted that, due to legal restrictions… pic.twitter.com/8pPSxkOI1r — Eluru Sreenu (@IamEluruSreenu) December 18, 2024 × Assuring full support to the victim, he said, ''We are ready to support in any way we can to help him recover. I am thankful that the government has also stepped forward to help him reach normalcy.” Allu Aravind on why Allu Arjun is not visiting the hospital Talking about why his son was unable to visit the hospital, the film producer revealed that the actor wanted to meet the victim the next day of the stampede, but he was stopped by the hospital authorities, who advised him not to visit the hospital. Also due to the legal case that had been filed, his legal team strongly advised him not to meet the victim or his family. Also read: Pushpa 2 stampede case: Telangana police likely to challenge Allu Arjun’s bail “Many people wonder why Allu Arjun hasn’t visited the hospital yet. He wanted to visit them the day after the stampede. However, the hospital authorities asked them to stay put for safety reasons. It’s the same day a case was filed against him,” Aravind said. “Our legal team also advised Bunny not to go to the hospital or meet the parents. I have taken permission from the authorities to visit the boy today because he felt bad he couldn’t visit them. I thank CM Revanth Reddy, the police and the hospital authorities for agreeing,” he added. Pushpa 2 stampede and Allu Arjun's arrest The incident occurred on Dec 4 when Allu Arjun appeared unexpectedly at Sandhya Theatre in Hyderabad during a Pushpa 2 screening. However, things went wrong when the crowd went berserk due to the actor's presence, leading to a stampede. The event took a tragic turn when a 35-year-old female fan named Revathi died after sustaining serious injuries. While her son got critically injured in the incident. Days later, Hyderabad police filed a case against Arjun, his security team, and the theatre management. The actor was arrested on Dec 13, however, he was granted interim bail on the same day by the Bombay High Court.

Allu Arjun's father visits 8-year-old stampede victim in hospital; says actor wanted to meet the child but...

New Delhi, India
India skipper Rohit Sharma is going through a rough patch in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series and batting at number 6 hasn't helped the cause either. Rohit has scored only 19 runs in three innings he has played in the BGT series with 10 being the highest score.
After his dismissal in Brisbane's first innings, veteran India batter Cheteshwar Pujara explained how changing the batting position may have put a doubt in Rohit's mind.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-indias-greatest-fast-bowler-aussies-in-awe-of-jasprit-bumrah-785154">'India's greatest fast bowler,' Aussies in awe of Jasprit Bumrah</a>
“He has been opening the innings, now he's batting at number 6. That is for the team, but I still feel that when you are so much used to opening the innings and when you have to wait, then you put yourself in that doubt. I mean, it doesn't help you when you're opening innings and you suddenly start batting at number 6. So that you don't get that momentum either,” Pujara said while talking on Star Sports.
Rohit decided to bat in the middle order after KL Rahul did well in the first BGT Test in Perth as the opener during which Rohit was absent due to his second child's birth.
The skipper's form, however, has been a cause of concern long before the Australia tour. In the five Tests he played before the BGT, Rohit scored only 133 runs in 10 innings at an average of 13.33 with a highest of 52. It is to be noted that all those five Tests were played at home.
Rahul, on the other hand, has been doing a fine job as an opener in Australia. The batter has scored 235 runs in six innings - the highest for India in the series so far and second highest overall behind Travis Head's 409.
Rahul has scored those runs at an average of 47 with two fifties and a highest of 84, which he hit in Brisbane, helping India draw the rain-affected Test.

Rohit decided to bat in the middle order after KL Rahul did well in the first BGT Test in Perth as the opener during which Rohit was absent due to his second child's birth.



New Delhi, India India skipper Rohit Sharma is going through a rough patch in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series and batting at number 6 hasn't helped the cause either. Rohit has scored only 19 runs in three innings he has played in the BGT series with 10 being the highest score. After his dismissal in Brisbane's first innings, veteran India batter Cheteshwar Pujara explained how changing the batting position may have put a doubt in Rohit's mind. Also Read: 'India's greatest fast bowler,' Aussies in awe of Jasprit Bumrah “He has been opening the innings, now he's batting at number 6. That is for the team, but I still feel that when you are so much used to opening the innings and when you have to wait, then you put yourself in that doubt. I mean, it doesn't help you when you're opening innings and you suddenly start batting at number 6. So that you don't get that momentum either,” Pujara said while talking on Star Sports. Rohit decided to bat in the middle order after KL Rahul did well in the first BGT Test in Perth as the opener during which Rohit was absent due to his second child's birth. The skipper's form, however, has been a cause of concern long before the Australia tour. In the five Tests he played before the BGT, Rohit scored only 133 runs in 10 innings at an average of 13.33 with a highest of 52. It is to be noted that all those five Tests were played at home. Rahul, on the other hand, has been doing a fine job as an opener in Australia. The batter has scored 235 runs in six innings - the highest for India in the series so far and second highest overall behind Travis Head's 409. Rahul has scored those runs at an average of 47 with two fifties and a highest of 84, which he hit in Brisbane, helping India draw the rain-affected Test.

BGT 2024-25: 'It doesn't help...,' Cheteshwar Pujara reveals reason behind Rohit's struggles at number 6

The foreign minister Popsoi, along with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar inaugurated the Moldova embassy in Delhi on Sunday.



India has strong say in lasting peace in Ukraine: Moldova FM Mihail Popsoi

Brisbane, Australia
India skipper Rohit Sharma revealed that off spinner Ravi Ashwin understood the thinking of the team which prompted him to announce his retirement from internationals. Ashwin bid adieu to international cricket after the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18).
"He understands what the team is thinking. He understands what kind of combinations we are thinking of. When we came here as well, we were not sure about which spinner was going to play. We just wanted to assess and see what kind of conditions we get in front of us, But yeah, when I arrived in Perth, this was a chat we had, and I somehow convinced him to stay for that pink ball Test," Rohit said at the post match press conference.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-it-doesnt-help-cheteshwar-pujara-reveals-reason-behind-rohits-struggles-at-number-6-785179">'It doesn't help...,' Cheteshwar Pujara reveals reason behind Rohit's struggles at number 6</a>
"It just happened so that if you know where he felt that, 'if I'm not needed right now in the series, I'm better off. Saying goodbye to the game, but obviously, we've not been to Melbourne yet, so we don't know what sort of conditions we expect there and what sort of combination, but just keeping Ash in particularly in mind, giving him that respect that this if this is what he thinks, we should allow him to think that way and we should all stand by," he added.
Ashwin retired as India second highest wicket-taker in international cricket. The offie took 765 in Tests (537), ODIs (157) and T20Is (72) combined, second only to Anil Kumble's 953.
In Tests also, Ashwin is the second highest wicket-taker for India behind Kumble's 619. His 37 Test five-for are joint second most in the history along with Shane Warne and behind only Muthiah Muralidaran's 67.
In the ongoing BGT, Ashwin played in the second Test in Adelaide under the lights and returned with figures of 1/53 in India's 10-wicket loss.

Ashwin retired as India second highest wicket-taker in international cricket. The offie took 765 in Tests (537), ODIs (157) and T20Is (72) combined, second only to Anil Kumble's 953.



Brisbane, Australia India skipper Rohit Sharma revealed that off spinner Ravi Ashwin understood the thinking of the team which prompted him to announce his retirement from internationals. Ashwin bid adieu to international cricket after the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18). "He understands what the team is thinking. He understands what kind of combinations we are thinking of. When we came here as well, we were not sure about which spinner was going to play. We just wanted to assess and see what kind of conditions we get in front of us, But yeah, when I arrived in Perth, this was a chat we had, and I somehow convinced him to stay for that pink ball Test," Rohit said at the post match press conference. Also Read: 'It doesn't help...,' Cheteshwar Pujara reveals reason behind Rohit's struggles at number 6 "It just happened so that if you know where he felt that, 'if I'm not needed right now in the series, I'm better off. Saying goodbye to the game, but obviously, we've not been to Melbourne yet, so we don't know what sort of conditions we expect there and what sort of combination, but just keeping Ash in particularly in mind, giving him that respect that this if this is what he thinks, we should allow him to think that way and we should all stand by," he added. Ashwin retired as India second highest wicket-taker in international cricket. The offie took 765 in Tests (537), ODIs (157) and T20Is (72) combined, second only to Anil Kumble's 953. In Tests also, Ashwin is the second highest wicket-taker for India behind Kumble's 619. His 37 Test five-for are joint second most in the history along with Shane Warne and behind only Muthiah Muralidaran's 67. In the ongoing BGT, Ashwin played in the second Test in Adelaide under the lights and returned with figures of 1/53 in India's 10-wicket loss.

BGT 2024-25: 'He understands team's thinking,' says skipper Rohit Sharma on Ravi Ashwin's retirement

New Delhi, India 
R Ashwin shocked the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia, at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw. Ashwin ended his illustrious career with 537 Test scalps, only behind Anil Kumble (who tops the list for India with 619 wickets) and 228 wickets in white-ball formats.
Ashwin had a real chance of surpassing Kumble to become India's highest wicket-taker in the purest format. However, he retired in the middle of the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Thus, Kumble reacted to his retirement and expressed his disappointment as he was backing Ashwin to surpass his wicket-tally.
"Congratulations, Ash, on a fantastic career. You’ve been a champion bowler for India, a champion all-rounder for India. You’ll certainly be missed. It’s not that easy, carrying that kind of expectation day in and day out. You’ve done it right throughout your career. You’ve been a match-winner for India, and Team India will certainly miss you," Kumble said in a video shared by ESPNcricinfo.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-it-doesnt-help-cheteshwar-pujara-reveals-reason-behind-rohits-struggles-at-number-6-785179">BGT 2024-25: 'It doesn't help...,' Cheteshwar Pujara reveals reason behind Rohit's struggles at number 6</a>
"I, for one, am a bit disappointed that you ended your career today at the international level. Ideally, I would have wanted to see you go beyond 619, but you have your reasons for that," Kumble further opined.
"All the best to you in your second chapter. And I am sure it will be as glorious as chapter one. So, Ash, here’s to a fantastic career that you’ve had for India. And congratulations once again. All the very best. Catch you soon," the former Indian captain added.
Ashwin ends his career as India's second-highest wicket-taker in international cricket, finishing with 765 victims. Only Kumble is ahead of him, with 953 scalps.

Former India spinner Anil Kumble reacted to R Ashwin's sudden international retirement, expressing his disappointment as he wanted Ashwin to surpass his Test wicket tally (619).



New Delhi, India R Ashwin shocked the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia, at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw. Ashwin ended his illustrious career with 537 Test scalps, only behind Anil Kumble (who tops the list for India with 619 wickets) and 228 wickets in white-ball formats. Ashwin had a real chance of surpassing Kumble to become India's highest wicket-taker in the purest format. However, he retired in the middle of the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Thus, Kumble reacted to his retirement and expressed his disappointment as he was backing Ashwin to surpass his wicket-tally. "Congratulations, Ash, on a fantastic career. You’ve been a champion bowler for India, a champion all-rounder for India. You’ll certainly be missed. It’s not that easy, carrying that kind of expectation day in and day out. You’ve done it right throughout your career. You’ve been a match-winner for India, and Team India will certainly miss you," Kumble said in a video shared by ESPNcricinfo. Also read: BGT 2024-25: 'It doesn't help...,' Cheteshwar Pujara reveals reason behind Rohit's struggles at number 6 "I, for one, am a bit disappointed that you ended your career today at the international level. Ideally, I would have wanted to see you go beyond 619, but you have your reasons for that," Kumble further opined. "All the best to you in your second chapter. And I am sure it will be as glorious as chapter one. So, Ash, here’s to a fantastic career that you’ve had for India. And congratulations once again. All the very best. Catch you soon," the former Indian captain added. Ashwin ends his career as India's second-highest wicket-taker in international cricket, finishing with 765 victims. Only Kumble is ahead of him, with 953 scalps.

'Bit disappointed you retired, wanted you to go past 619': Anil Kumble reacts to Ashwin's retirement

New Delhi, India 
The passengers on the ill-fated private boat that capsized Wednesday (Dec 18) off the Mumbai coast were not provided life jackets, which led to the tragic death of at least 13 people. Meanwhile, the AQI in Delhi reached a dangerous peak of 423 with the IMD issuing an orange alert warning that dense fog is expected in the city in the next two days. In other news, five terrorists were killed in a major operation by Indian security forces in the Kadder area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. 
Click on the headlines to read more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-boat-tragedy-no-life-jackets-given-to-passengers-navy-driver-was-performing-stunts-785131">Mumbai boat tragedy: No life jackets given to passengers; navy driver was ‘performing stunts’</a>
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Passengers on the ill-fated private boat that capsized Wednesday (Dec 18) off the Mumbai coast were not given life jackets, leading to the tragic demise of at least 13 people. The boat, en route to Elephanta Island, reportedly collided with an Indian Navy speedboat near the Gateway of India.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-chokes-as-aqi-soars-to-423-imd-issues-orange-alert-amid-dense-fog-conditions-785156">Delhi chokes as AQI soars to 423, IMD issues orange alert amid dense fog conditions</a>
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The Indian national capital woke up to chilly waves with 7 degrees Celsius battling with poor air quality as the AQI soared to 423 on Thursday (19 Dec). The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has declared an orange alert for Delhi and warned that there will be dense fog in the city for the next two days due to western disturbances.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-dubs-women-as-delicate-flowers-as-calls-grow-to-amend-hijab-bill-785142">Iran’s Khamenei dubs women as ‘delicate flowers’ as calls grow to amend hijab bill</a>
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Amid ongoing debate in Iran over strict hijab laws, the country’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Wednesday (Dec 18) dubbed women as ‘delicate flowers’. In a cryptic post on social media platform X, Khamenei, who is accused of curbing women's rights in the Shi’ite country, said women ‘need to be cared for’.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-forces-gun-down-five-terrorists-in-jammu-kashmir-two-soldiers-injured-785145">Security forces gun down five terrorists in India's Jammu-Kashmir, two soldiers injured</a>
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In a major successful operation by Indian security forces, five terrorists were killed Thursday morning (Dec 19) in an encounter in the Kadder area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. Security forces earlier said that a group of terrorists was trapped after suspicious activity was observed in the area.
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Good morning! Start your day with WION's daily news brief. 



New Delhi, India The passengers on the ill-fated private boat that capsized Wednesday (Dec 18) off the Mumbai coast were not provided life jackets, which led to the tragic death of at least 13 people. Meanwhile, the AQI in Delhi reached a dangerous peak of 423 with the IMD issuing an orange alert warning that dense fog is expected in the city in the next two days. In other news, five terrorists were killed in a major operation by Indian security forces in the Kadder area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. Click on the headlines to read more Mumbai boat tragedy: No life jackets given to passengers; navy driver was ‘performing stunts’ Passengers on the ill-fated private boat that capsized Wednesday (Dec 18) off the Mumbai coast were not given life jackets, leading to the tragic demise of at least 13 people. The boat, en route to Elephanta Island, reportedly collided with an Indian Navy speedboat near the Gateway of India. Delhi chokes as AQI soars to 423, IMD issues orange alert amid dense fog conditions The Indian national capital woke up to chilly waves with 7 degrees Celsius battling with poor air quality as the AQI soared to 423 on Thursday (19 Dec). The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has declared an orange alert for Delhi and warned that there will be dense fog in the city for the next two days due to western disturbances. Iran’s Khamenei dubs women as ‘delicate flowers’ as calls grow to amend hijab bill Amid ongoing debate in Iran over strict hijab laws, the country’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Wednesday (Dec 18) dubbed women as ‘delicate flowers’. In a cryptic post on social media platform X, Khamenei, who is accused of curbing women's rights in the Shi’ite country, said women ‘need to be cared for’. Security forces gun down five terrorists in India's Jammu-Kashmir, two soldiers injured In a major successful operation by Indian security forces, five terrorists were killed Thursday morning (Dec 19) in an encounter in the Kadder area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. Security forces earlier said that a group of terrorists was trapped after suspicious activity was observed in the area. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine's Zelensky Held Talks With NATO Chief

Morning news brief: Mumbai boat tragedy update; Delhi AQI soars to 423, and more

Islamabad
The outgoing US administration Wednesday (Dec 19) slapped sanctions on four Pakistani entities, including one state-owned, in an action ‘targeting proliferators of weapons of mass destruction.’ Mathew Miller, the State Department spokesperson, said the four agencies were involved in Pakistan’s long-range ballistic missile programme.
<h2>Details of sanctioned entities</h2>
The entities that were targeted by Washington DC Wednesday included Islambad-based National Development Complex (NDC). The agency is believed to have played a central role in developing Pakistan’s ballistic missile capabilities.
NDC is also responsible for developing Shaheen-series ballistic missiles and also for procuring special vehicle chassis and missile testing equipment to support these efforts.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwjo2d2forOKAxXfc_UHHaFMKgoQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-agencies-make-dossier-on-pakistans-terror-support-776608" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-agencies-make-dossier-on-pakistans-terror-support-776608&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjo2d2forOKAxXfc_UHHaFMKgoQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Indian agencies make dossier on Pakistan`s terror support</a>
Apart from the NDC, US sanctions targeted Akhtar and Sons Private Limited, a company that allegedly supplied a range of equipment to NDC for its missile development activities. Rockside Enterprise, a third firm, was also targeted by the US to prevent “the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and prevent further destabilising developments in the region.”
<h2>Islamabad reacts</h2>
Reacting to the move by US, Pakistan’s foreign ministry said it was an “unfortunate and biased” action. The statement added that the US move could undermine regional stability by “exacerbating military asymmetries.”
<h2>Pakistan’s ballistic missile programme</h2>
Reuters cited the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists as saying that Pakistan’s Shaheen-series missiles can be used to launch nuclear weapons. The South Asian country first test-exploded a nuclear bomb in 1998 and entered the elite club of nuclear-armed nations. It currently holds at least 170 nuclear warheads.
Watch: Pakistan: Not Planning To Block Any Virtual Private Network In Future
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It must be noted that the Shaheen programme was launched by Pakistan in response to India’s Agni series missiles. Shaheen-III missile, with a range of 2,750 kilometres, has the ability to reach farthest places in India’s northeast as well as Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Indian Ocean. It has been reported in media that the missile can strike even Israel, in just 12 minutes.
(With inputs from agencies)

Shaheen-III missile, with a range of 2,750 kilometres, has the ability to reach farthest places in India’s northeast as well as Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Indian Ocean.



Islamabad The outgoing US administration Wednesday (Dec 19) slapped sanctions on four Pakistani entities, including one state-owned, in an action ‘targeting proliferators of weapons of mass destruction.’ Mathew Miller, the State Department spokesperson, said the four agencies were involved in Pakistan’s long-range ballistic missile programme. Details of sanctioned entities The entities that were targeted by Washington DC Wednesday included Islambad-based National Development Complex (NDC). The agency is believed to have played a central role in developing Pakistan’s ballistic missile capabilities. NDC is also responsible for developing Shaheen-series ballistic missiles and also for procuring special vehicle chassis and missile testing equipment to support these efforts. Also read: Indian agencies make dossier on Pakistan`s terror support Apart from the NDC, US sanctions targeted Akhtar and Sons Private Limited, a company that allegedly supplied a range of equipment to NDC for its missile development activities. Rockside Enterprise, a third firm, was also targeted by the US to prevent “the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and prevent further destabilising developments in the region.” Islamabad reacts Reacting to the move by US, Pakistan’s foreign ministry said it was an “unfortunate and biased” action. The statement added that the US move could undermine regional stability by “exacerbating military asymmetries.” Pakistan’s ballistic missile programme Reuters cited the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists as saying that Pakistan’s Shaheen-series missiles can be used to launch nuclear weapons. The South Asian country first test-exploded a nuclear bomb in 1998 and entered the elite club of nuclear-armed nations. It currently holds at least 170 nuclear warheads. Watch: Pakistan: Not Planning To Block Any Virtual Private Network In Future × It must be noted that the Shaheen programme was launched by Pakistan in response to India’s Agni series missiles. Shaheen-III missile, with a range of 2,750 kilometres, has the ability to reach farthest places in India’s northeast as well as Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Indian Ocean. It has been reported in media that the missile can strike even Israel, in just 12 minutes. (With inputs from agencies)

US targets Pakistan’s ballistic missile programme, slaps sanctions on four entities

New Delhi, India
Wicked actor Cynthia Erivo and filmmaker James Mangold are set to be honoured at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival.
Sundance Institute, which organises the film gala every year, said in a statement that Erivo will be bestowed with the Visionary Award for her "uncompromising work and notable contributions to the entertainment industry".
Erivo served as a jury member for the festival's 2021 edition and returned in 2023, as both an actor and producer of the film Drift.
She is currently receiving praise for her performance as Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the West, in Wicked, adapted from the hit Broadway musical of the same name, which was based on the 1995 novel by Gregory Maguire.
Erivo, also known for movies like Widows and Harriet, said receiving honour has filled her with immense gratitude.
“Sundance has always been a sanctuary for bold voices and transformative narratives, and to be a part of and recognized by this incredible community is deeply meaningful. Storytelling is the foundation of my work, and it's a privilege to celebrate this art form alongside so many extraordinary creators.
"This recognition inspires me to continue championing bold, diverse stories that connect, challenge, and uplift us all," she said.
Mangold, the director of critically-acclaimed movies Girl, Interrupted, Walk the Line, Logan and Ford v Ferrari, will be felicitated with the the Trailblazer Award in recognition of his unwavering dedication and notable contributions to the field of cinema.
“Sundance has been many things in my life; a faraway dream on a mountain, a laboratory at which I developed the script for 'Cop Land,' a Festival at which I debuted 'Heavy', my first feature, and later, a place I have proudly mentored talented young filmmakers.
"I am floored and flattered that Sundance thought my body of work was worthy of this honour,” Mangold said.
The Sundance Film Festival will be held from January 23 to February 2, 2025, in Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah.
(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 Sundance Film Festival will be held from January 23 to February 2, 2025, in Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah.



New Delhi, India Wicked actor Cynthia Erivo and filmmaker James Mangold are set to be honoured at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival. Sundance Institute, which organises the film gala every year, said in a statement that Erivo will be bestowed with the Visionary Award for her "uncompromising work and notable contributions to the entertainment industry". Erivo served as a jury member for the festival's 2021 edition and returned in 2023, as both an actor and producer of the film Drift. She is currently receiving praise for her performance as Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the West, in Wicked, adapted from the hit Broadway musical of the same name, which was based on the 1995 novel by Gregory Maguire. Erivo, also known for movies like Widows and Harriet, said receiving honour has filled her with immense gratitude. “Sundance has always been a sanctuary for bold voices and transformative narratives, and to be a part of and recognized by this incredible community is deeply meaningful. Storytelling is the foundation of my work, and it's a privilege to celebrate this art form alongside so many extraordinary creators. "This recognition inspires me to continue championing bold, diverse stories that connect, challenge, and uplift us all," she said. Mangold, the director of critically-acclaimed movies Girl, Interrupted, Walk the Line, Logan and Ford v Ferrari, will be felicitated with the the Trailblazer Award in recognition of his unwavering dedication and notable contributions to the field of cinema. “Sundance has been many things in my life; a faraway dream on a mountain, a laboratory at which I developed the script for 'Cop Land,' a Festival at which I debuted 'Heavy', my first feature, and later, a place I have proudly mentored talented young filmmakers. "I am floored and flattered that Sundance thought my body of work was worthy of this honour,” Mangold said. The Sundance Film Festival will be held from January 23 to February 2, 2025, in Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah. (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.)

Cynthia Erivo, James Mangold to be felicitated at Sundance Film Festival

Australia
India pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been outstanding in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series against Australia. The pacer has also overtaken Kapil Dev's record of 51 wickets Down Under to become India's finest bowler ever in Australia. With 21 wickets in three Tests played so far, Bumrah now has 53 Test wickets in Australia - the most for any Indian bowler.
Bumrah's performance has been praised not only by Indian cricketers but Aussies as well with former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting calling him the 'best right now.'
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/he-could-have-said-i-am-sunil-gavaskar-critical-of-r-ashwins-sudden-international-retirement-784947">He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement</a>
"I think he is definitely India's greatest fast bowler," said Ponting about Bumrah as reported by news agency AFP. "In T20 cricket, one-day cricket and Test match cricket, he's clearly the best right now," he added.
"Jasprit is probably going to go down as one of the greatest fast bowlers to play the game," said Travis Head, who has been India's tormentor in the series so far with the bat.
It is thanks to Bumrah that India are very much alive in the series despite a poor show by the batters. The pacer, in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma, led India in the first Test of the series in Perth and helped India win the Test by 295 runs.
It was Bumrah's menacing spell on the first day of the Test in Perth after India were bowled out for a paltry 150 that helped the visitors be in the position of advantage.
India went on to win the match and led the series 1-0 going into the second Test in Adelaide where Bumrah couldn't get much support from other bowlers and India lost the match.
The pacer was back to his best in the third Test with another five-for before helping India avoid the follow-on with the bat in the rain-affected Test.
The five-Test series now stands equal at 1-1 with two more games left to play.

It is thanks to Bumrah that India are very much alive in the series despite a poor show by the batters. The pacer, in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma, led India in the first Test of the series in Perth and helped India win the Test by 295 runs.



Australia India pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been outstanding in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series against Australia. The pacer has also overtaken Kapil Dev's record of 51 wickets Down Under to become India's finest bowler ever in Australia. With 21 wickets in three Tests played so far, Bumrah now has 53 Test wickets in Australia - the most for any Indian bowler. Bumrah's performance has been praised not only by Indian cricketers but Aussies as well with former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting calling him the 'best right now.' Also Read: He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement "I think he is definitely India's greatest fast bowler," said Ponting about Bumrah as reported by news agency AFP. "In T20 cricket, one-day cricket and Test match cricket, he's clearly the best right now," he added. "Jasprit is probably going to go down as one of the greatest fast bowlers to play the game," said Travis Head, who has been India's tormentor in the series so far with the bat. It is thanks to Bumrah that India are very much alive in the series despite a poor show by the batters. The pacer, in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma, led India in the first Test of the series in Perth and helped India win the Test by 295 runs. It was Bumrah's menacing spell on the first day of the Test in Perth after India were bowled out for a paltry 150 that helped the visitors be in the position of advantage. India went on to win the match and led the series 1-0 going into the second Test in Adelaide where Bumrah couldn't get much support from other bowlers and India lost the match. The pacer was back to his best in the third Test with another five-for before helping India avoid the follow-on with the bat in the rain-affected Test. The five-Test series now stands equal at 1-1 with two more games left to play.

BGT 2024-25: 'India's greatest fast bowler,' Aussies in awe of Jasprit Bumrah

Jerusalem, Undefined
Israel said Thursday it struck ports and energy infrastructure used by Houthi rebels in Yemen after intercepting a missile fired from the country, warning Huthi leaders it "will reach you too."
Houthi media said the strikes hit power stations, oil facilities and a port in Hodaidah, killing nine people and injuring others. The strikes came after the interception of a missile fired by Huthi rebels towards Israel. The group has regularly targeted Israel over its military operation in Gaza.
Israel's military said it "conducted precise strikes on Huthi military targets in Yemen -- including ports and energy infrastructure in Sanaa, which the Huthis have been using in ways that effectively contributed to their military actions."
"I warn the leaders of the Huthi terrorist organisation: Israel's long arm will reach you too," Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said. Al-Masira, a media channel belonging to the Huthis, said a series of "aggressive raids" were launched in the Yemeni capital of Sanaa and the port city of Hodeidah. 
It reported raids that "targeted two central power plants" in and around Yemen's capital Sanaa, while in Hodeidah it said "the enemy launched four aggressive raids targeting the port... and two raids targeting" an oil facility.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-welcomes-ceasefire-agreement-between-israel-and-hezbollah-says-always-called-for-de-escalation-779632">India welcomes ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, says 'always called for de-escalation'</a>
It said strikes on the Al-Saleef port had killed seven people, while two more were killed and other injured in the strike on the oil facility. The strikes came after Israel's military intercepted a missile from Yemen for the second time this week.
On Monday, the Houthis claimed a missile launch they said was aimed at "a military target of the Israeli enemy in the occupied area of Yaffa" -- a reference to Israel's Tel Aviv area.  Also Monday, an Israeli navy missile boat intercepted a drone in the Mediterranean after it was launched from Yemen, the military said. 
The Huthi rebels have said they are acting in solidarity with Palestinians and pledged Monday to continue operations "until the aggression on Gaza stops and the siege is lifted". 
Watch: Houthis Claim Hypersonic Missile Strike
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On December 9, a drone claimed by Huthis exploded on the top floor of a residential building in the central Israel city of Yavne, causing no casualties. In July, a Huthi drone attack in 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 on Huthi targets by United States and sometimes British forces.
Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari said the group had become a "global threat," pointing to Iran's support for the rebels. "We will continue to act against anyone, anyone in the Middle East, that threatens the state of Israel," he said.
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.

Houthi media said the strikes hit power stations, oil facilities and a port in Hodaidah, killing nine people and injuring others. The strikes came after the interception of a missile fired by Huthi rebels towards Israel. The group has regularly targeted Israel over its military operation in Gaza



Jerusalem, Undefined Israel said Thursday it struck ports and energy infrastructure used by Houthi rebels in Yemen after intercepting a missile fired from the country, warning Huthi leaders it "will reach you too." Houthi media said the strikes hit power stations, oil facilities and a port in Hodaidah, killing nine people and injuring others. The strikes came after the interception of a missile fired by Huthi rebels towards Israel. The group has regularly targeted Israel over its military operation in Gaza. Israel's military said it "conducted precise strikes on Huthi military targets in Yemen -- including ports and energy infrastructure in Sanaa, which the Huthis have been using in ways that effectively contributed to their military actions." "I warn the leaders of the Huthi terrorist organisation: Israel's long arm will reach you too," Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said. Al-Masira, a media channel belonging to the Huthis, said a series of "aggressive raids" were launched in the Yemeni capital of Sanaa and the port city of Hodeidah. It reported raids that "targeted two central power plants" in and around Yemen's capital Sanaa, while in Hodeidah it said "the enemy launched four aggressive raids targeting the port... and two raids targeting" an oil facility. Also Read: India welcomes ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, says 'always called for de-escalation' It said strikes on the Al-Saleef port had killed seven people, while two more were killed and other injured in the strike on the oil facility. The strikes came after Israel's military intercepted a missile from Yemen for the second time this week. On Monday, the Houthis claimed a missile launch they said was aimed at "a military target of the Israeli enemy in the occupied area of Yaffa" -- a reference to Israel's Tel Aviv area. Also Monday, an Israeli navy missile boat intercepted a drone in the Mediterranean after it was launched from Yemen, the military said. The Huthi rebels have said they are acting in solidarity with Palestinians and pledged Monday to continue operations "until the aggression on Gaza stops and the siege is lifted". Watch: Houthis Claim Hypersonic Missile Strike On December 9, a drone claimed by Huthis exploded on the top floor of a residential building in the central Israel city of Yavne, causing no casualties. In July, a Huthi drone attack in 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 on Huthi targets by United States and sometimes British forces. Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari said the group had become a "global threat," pointing to Iran's support for the rebels. "We will continue to act against anyone, anyone in the Middle East, that threatens the state of Israel," he said. 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.

Israel strikes Yemen port and energy sites after interception of missile

Srinagar, India
In a major successful operation by Indian security forces, five terrorists were killed Thursday morning (Dec 19) in an encounter in the Kadder area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. Security forces earlier said that a group of terrorists was trapped after suspicious activity was observed in the area. During the cordon and search operation, terrorists opened fire on the forces, which led to a gunbattle.
The Indian Army earlier said that based on specific intelligence input regarding the presence of terrorists, a joint operation was launched in collaboration with Jammu and Kashmir Police at Kader, Kulgam. Suspicious activity was observed by vigilant troops and on being challenged, terrorists opened indiscriminate and heavy fire. "Own troops effectively retaliated. Operation is in progress," the army said.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwj7p7qI9rKKAxUMZvUHHYeeNrQQxfQBKAB6BAgYEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-braces-for-severe-and-harsh-winter-with-la-nina-impact-780883" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-braces-for-severe-and-harsh-winter-with-la-nina-impact-780883&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj7p7qI9rKKAxUMZvUHHYeeNrQQxfQBKAB6BAgYEAE">Jammu and Kashmir braces for severe and harsh winter with La Niña impact</a>
According to sources, two security forces soldiers have been injured in the initial gunfight in the area. They have been evacuated and taken to the Army's base hospital. Security forces are carrying out a massive search operation in the area. Meanwhile, the identities of the terrorists have not been ascertained yet as the operation still continues.
Watch: India: Cold Wave To Continue Across Kashmir Valley, IMD Predicts Moderate Fog Conditions in Delhi
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Security has now been put on high alert across Southern Kashmir districts including Kulgam, Shopian, Anantnag and Pulwama.

The Indian Army earlier said that based on specific intelligence input regarding the presence of terrorists, a joint operation was launched in collaboration with Jammu and Kashmir Police at Kader, Kulgam.



Srinagar, India In a major successful operation by Indian security forces, five terrorists were killed Thursday morning (Dec 19) in an encounter in the Kadder area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. Security forces earlier said that a group of terrorists was trapped after suspicious activity was observed in the area. During the cordon and search operation, terrorists opened fire on the forces, which led to a gunbattle. The Indian Army earlier said that based on specific intelligence input regarding the presence of terrorists, a joint operation was launched in collaboration with Jammu and Kashmir Police at Kader, Kulgam. Suspicious activity was observed by vigilant troops and on being challenged, terrorists opened indiscriminate and heavy fire. "Own troops effectively retaliated. Operation is in progress," the army said. Also read: Jammu and Kashmir braces for severe and harsh winter with La Niña impact According to sources, two security forces soldiers have been injured in the initial gunfight in the area. They have been evacuated and taken to the Army's base hospital. Security forces are carrying out a massive search operation in the area. Meanwhile, the identities of the terrorists have not been ascertained yet as the operation still continues. Watch: India: Cold Wave To Continue Across Kashmir Valley, IMD Predicts Moderate Fog Conditions in Delhi × Security has now been put on high alert across Southern Kashmir districts including Kulgam, Shopian, Anantnag and Pulwama.

Security forces gun down five terrorists in India's Jammu-Kashmir, two soldiers injured

New Delhi, India
The Enforcement Directorate has recorded the statements of actors Mallika Sherawat and Pooja Banerjee in a money laundering case against a betting website. The website is allegedly owned by Pakistani nationals and has illegally "broadcast Men's T20 World Cup matches".
The federal agency had undertaken fresh searches in this case last week in Delhi, Mumbai, and Pune as part of the probe against portal Magicwin.
Sources told PTI that ED had asked Sherawat and TV actor Pooja Banerjee to respond to some queries in this case by email or through an official representative.
They said 48-year-old Sherawat submitted her statement to the ED's Ahmedabad office last week by sending her replies through an authorised representative and email. At the same time, Banerjee was deposed before the investigation officer (IO) and got her statement recorded under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Sherawat has acted in a number of Hindi movies while Banerjee has been part of several TV shows including Kasautii Zindagii Kay.
Both their names were listed in the case as they were involved in some promotion activity related to Magicwin. They are, prima facie not found to be an accused in the case, as per the sources. The agency is expected to question some more actors and celebrities in this case soon.
The ED, in a statement issued on Tuesday, said a "launch party" held for the portal, where several "B-town celebrities" attended and endorsed Magicwin, is under its scanner.
These celebrities also did video and photo shoots for Magicwin and posted them on their social media accounts for its "promotion". Advertisements were also done through hoardings out of home (OOH) in various parts of India including Gujarat and Maharashtra, the agency said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/heres-what-disgraced-music-mogul-sean-diddy-combs-will-have-for-christmas-dinner-in-jail-785152">Here's what Sean "Diddy" Combs will have for Christmas dinner in jail</a>
<h2>The case against Magicwin</h2>
The money laundering case is based on an FIR registered by the cybercrime unit of the Ahmedabad Police in Gujarat. Magicwin, according to the agency, is a "betting" website "guised" as a gaming portal that is "actually owned" by Pakistani nationals.
The operations of this website are mostly handled by Indian nationals working or settled in Dubai, it said. "The betting games being shown on the website are originally played in the Philippines and other countries which allow betting activities," it said.
However, as per the investigation, the same is "re-telecast" on Magicwin's website by copying the APIs (application programming interface) of the original games.
The agency said betting activities like deposits, placing of betting and withdrawal are "controlled" by the "owners" of Magicwin.
The ED claimed its probe found that the money, deposited in the bank accounts by the players/betters, was "diverted" through layers of "shell and mule" bank accounts and further the profit part of the owners was invested in crypto assets, withdrawn in cash or sent to Dubai through Hawala channels.
The winning amounts of the players/betters were transferred to their bank accounts through merchant accounts of various shell companies maintained with payment gateways. These amounts were also transferred to the player's bank account through domestic money transfer, it said.
It said the profits generated by these betting websites are more than 50 per cent of the total deposits made by the players.
(With inputs from agencies)

The Enforcement Directorate has recorded the statements of actors Mallika Sherawat and Pooja Banerjee in a money laundering case against a betting website.



New Delhi, India The Enforcement Directorate has recorded the statements of actors Mallika Sherawat and Pooja Banerjee in a money laundering case against a betting website. The website is allegedly owned by Pakistani nationals and has illegally "broadcast Men's T20 World Cup matches". The federal agency had undertaken fresh searches in this case last week in Delhi, Mumbai, and Pune as part of the probe against portal Magicwin. Sources told PTI that ED had asked Sherawat and TV actor Pooja Banerjee to respond to some queries in this case by email or through an official representative. They said 48-year-old Sherawat submitted her statement to the ED's Ahmedabad office last week by sending her replies through an authorised representative and email. At the same time, Banerjee was deposed before the investigation officer (IO) and got her statement recorded under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Sherawat has acted in a number of Hindi movies while Banerjee has been part of several TV shows including Kasautii Zindagii Kay. Both their names were listed in the case as they were involved in some promotion activity related to Magicwin. They are, prima facie not found to be an accused in the case, as per the sources. The agency is expected to question some more actors and celebrities in this case soon. The ED, in a statement issued on Tuesday, said a "launch party" held for the portal, where several "B-town celebrities" attended and endorsed Magicwin, is under its scanner. These celebrities also did video and photo shoots for Magicwin and posted them on their social media accounts for its "promotion". Advertisements were also done through hoardings out of home (OOH) in various parts of India including Gujarat and Maharashtra, the agency said. Also read: Here's what Sean "Diddy" Combs will have for Christmas dinner in jail The case against Magicwin The money laundering case is based on an FIR registered by the cybercrime unit of the Ahmedabad Police in Gujarat. Magicwin, according to the agency, is a "betting" website "guised" as a gaming portal that is "actually owned" by Pakistani nationals. The operations of this website are mostly handled by Indian nationals working or settled in Dubai, it said. "The betting games being shown on the website are originally played in the Philippines and other countries which allow betting activities," it said. However, as per the investigation, the same is "re-telecast" on Magicwin's website by copying the APIs (application programming interface) of the original games. The agency said betting activities like deposits, placing of betting and withdrawal are "controlled" by the "owners" of Magicwin. The ED claimed its probe found that the money, deposited in the bank accounts by the players/betters, was "diverted" through layers of "shell and mule" bank accounts and further the profit part of the owners was invested in crypto assets, withdrawn in cash or sent to Dubai through Hawala channels. The winning amounts of the players/betters were transferred to their bank accounts through merchant accounts of various shell companies maintained with payment gateways. These amounts were also transferred to the player's bank account through domestic money transfer, it said. It said the profits generated by these betting websites are more than 50 per cent of the total deposits made by the players. (With inputs from agencies)

Mallika Sherawat and Pooja Bannerjee questioned by ED over money laundering case linked to a betting website

Tehran, Iran
Amid ongoing debate in Iran over strict hijab laws, the country’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Wednesday (Dec 18) dubbed women as ‘delicate flowers’. In a cryptic post on social media platform X, Khamenei, who is accused of curbing women's rights in the Shi’ite country, said women ‘need to be cared for’.
"A woman is a delicate flower and not a housemaid. A woman should be treated like a flower in the home. A flower needs to be cared for. Its freshness and sweet scent should be benefitted from and used to perfume the air," the post read.
Watch: Iran Pauses Crackdown On Strict Hijab Laws Amid Ongoing Protests
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The post came amidst ongoing protests in Iran by women over stringent hijab laws, triggered after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in 2022. The Iranian regime has attracted condemnations by human rights organisations and countries, like the US, who have called on Tehran to rein in its suppressive actions against ‘delicate flowers’.
<h2>Debate over hijab law</h2>
Iranian women are up in arms over a hijab law approved by the parliament in September 2023. The law aims to tighten restrictions on women's public attire and threaten action against businesses that fail to enforce the dress code. The bill was later okayed by the Guardian Council, a body empowered to vet legislation, but it has yet to be sent to the government for final approval.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwjpn4PI87KKAxWCn68BHTvfMdgQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-delays-hijab-law-president-calls-it-ambiguous-and-in-need-of-reform-784612" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-delays-hijab-law-president-calls-it-ambiguous-and-in-need-of-reform-784612&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjpn4PI87KKAxWCn68BHTvfMdgQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Iran delays hijab law, president calls it `ambiguous and in need of reform`</a>
Now, some lawmakers in Iran are urging the government to tone down the bill to give relief to protesting women. Shahram Dabiri, Iran's vice president for parliamentary affairs, earlier appealed to hold the bill and make necessary changes.
Since Amini died in 2022, Iran has doubled down on efforts to suppress the growing dissent of women. Khamenei also issued a directive to Iran’s so-called morality police to launch a campaign called 'Noor' or light, aimed at enforcing the compulsory hijab with fresh vigour.
(With inputs from agencies)

The Iranian regime has attracted condemnations by human rights organisations and countries, like the US, who have called on Tehran to rein in its suppressive actions against ‘delicate flowers’.



Tehran, Iran Amid ongoing debate in Iran over strict hijab laws, the country’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Wednesday (Dec 18) dubbed women as ‘delicate flowers’. In a cryptic post on social media platform X, Khamenei, who is accused of curbing women's rights in the Shi’ite country, said women ‘need to be cared for’. "A woman is a delicate flower and not a housemaid. A woman should be treated like a flower in the home. A flower needs to be cared for. Its freshness and sweet scent should be benefitted from and used to perfume the air," the post read. Watch: Iran Pauses Crackdown On Strict Hijab Laws Amid Ongoing Protests × The post came amidst ongoing protests in Iran by women over stringent hijab laws, triggered after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in 2022. The Iranian regime has attracted condemnations by human rights organisations and countries, like the US, who have called on Tehran to rein in its suppressive actions against ‘delicate flowers’. Debate over hijab law Iranian women are up in arms over a hijab law approved by the parliament in September 2023. The law aims to tighten restrictions on women's public attire and threaten action against businesses that fail to enforce the dress code. The bill was later okayed by the Guardian Council, a body empowered to vet legislation, but it has yet to be sent to the government for final approval. Also read: Iran delays hijab law, president calls it `ambiguous and in need of reform` Now, some lawmakers in Iran are urging the government to tone down the bill to give relief to protesting women. Shahram Dabiri, Iran's vice president for parliamentary affairs, earlier appealed to hold the bill and make necessary changes. Since Amini died in 2022, Iran has doubled down on efforts to suppress the growing dissent of women. Khamenei also issued a directive to Iran’s so-called morality police to launch a campaign called 'Noor' or light, aimed at enforcing the compulsory hijab with fresh vigour. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran’s Khamenei dubs women as ‘delicate flowers’ amid growing calls to amend hijab bill

Pyongyang, North Korea
North Korea on Thursday lashed out at "reckless provocation" by the United States and its allies for criticising Pyongyang's support for Russia's war in Ukraine, including the deployment of troops.
In a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency, a foreign ministry spokesman said the 10 nations and the European Union (EU) were "distorting and slandering" Pyongyang's "normal cooperative" ties with Moscow.
Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to reinforce Russia's war effort, including to the Kursk border region, where Ukrainian forces seized territory earlier this year.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/madness-must-be-stopped-zelensky-claims-russian-troops-burning-faces-of-north-korean-soldiers-killed-in-war-784772">'Madness must be stopped', Zelensky claims Russian troops burning faces of North Korean soldiers killed in war</a>
On Monday, those nations and the EU said North Korea's growing involvement in the war in Ukraine in support of Russia constituted a "dangerous expansion of the conflict, with serious consequences for European and Indo-Pacific security".
The foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States and the high representative of the European Union signed the statement, released by Washington.
"We urge the DPRK to cease immediately all assistance for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, including by withdrawing its troops", the statement said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-claims-killing-or-injuring-30-north-korean-soldiers-in-kursk-region-784464">Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region</a>
But Pyongyang's foreign ministry fired back, with the spokesman offering its "serious concern and protest, denouncing and rejecting in the strongest terms the reckless provocation of the US and its vassal forces".
North Korea said the "madness" of the response by "hostile forces" indicated that the increased cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow was effectively "deterring the US and the West's ill-intended extension of influence".
It did not specifically mention its troop deployment alongside Russian forces, only saying the war in Ukraine "has been prolonged" by what it called the "adventuristic military policy and policy of exclusive alliance" of Washington and its allies.
North Korea "will firmly safeguard its legitimate right as a sovereign state, put no restrictions on exercising it and continue to make crucial efforts to preserve regional and global peace and security", the statement carried by KCNA said.
Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Says North Korean Troops Are Fighting In Kursk
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North Korea and Russia have strengthened their military ties since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. A landmark defence pact between Pyongyang and Moscow signed in June came into force earlier this month.
A senior US military official said Tuesday that North Korea had suffered "several hundred casualties in the Kursk region, ranging from "light wounds up to being KIA (killed in action)".
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.

Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to reinforce Russia's war effort, including to the Kursk border region, where Ukrainian forces seized territory earlier this year



Pyongyang, North Korea North Korea on Thursday lashed out at "reckless provocation" by the United States and its allies for criticising Pyongyang's support for Russia's war in Ukraine, including the deployment of troops. In a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency, a foreign ministry spokesman said the 10 nations and the European Union (EU) were "distorting and slandering" Pyongyang's "normal cooperative" ties with Moscow. Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to reinforce Russia's war effort, including to the Kursk border region, where Ukrainian forces seized territory earlier this year. Also read | 'Madness must be stopped', Zelensky claims Russian troops burning faces of North Korean soldiers killed in war On Monday, those nations and the EU said North Korea's growing involvement in the war in Ukraine in support of Russia constituted a "dangerous expansion of the conflict, with serious consequences for European and Indo-Pacific security". The foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States and the high representative of the European Union signed the statement, released by Washington. "We urge the DPRK to cease immediately all assistance for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, including by withdrawing its troops", the statement said. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region But Pyongyang's foreign ministry fired back, with the spokesman offering its "serious concern and protest, denouncing and rejecting in the strongest terms the reckless provocation of the US and its vassal forces". North Korea said the "madness" of the response by "hostile forces" indicated that the increased cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow was effectively "deterring the US and the West's ill-intended extension of influence". It did not specifically mention its troop deployment alongside Russian forces, only saying the war in Ukraine "has been prolonged" by what it called the "adventuristic military policy and policy of exclusive alliance" of Washington and its allies. North Korea "will firmly safeguard its legitimate right as a sovereign state, put no restrictions on exercising it and continue to make crucial efforts to preserve regional and global peace and security", the statement carried by KCNA said. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Says North Korean Troops Are Fighting In Kursk × North Korea and Russia have strengthened their military ties since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. A landmark defence pact between Pyongyang and Moscow signed in June came into force earlier this month. A senior US military official said Tuesday that North Korea had suffered "several hundred casualties in the Kursk region, ranging from "light wounds up to being KIA (killed in action)". 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.

North Korea slams US-led criticism over alleged support for Russia, says 'reckless provocation'

Paris, France
Red Bull announced Wednesday that under-pressure Mexican driver Sergio Perez has departed the Formula One outfit after four seasons with Liam Lawson tipped to become world champion Max Verstappen's new teammate. Perez, 34, joined Red Bull in 2021 and helped the team earn two constructors' titles and completed a drivers' standings one-two with four-time world champion Verstappen in 2023.
He won five Grands Prix over 90 starts in Red Bull colours, including a victory at the Monaco GP and a double in Azerbaijan. During the 2024 season, Perez and Red Bull signed a contract extension, tying the pair together until 2026.
However, the Guadalajara-native's form dropped drastically after that deal and he picked up just nine points from his final eight race weekends. This dip in form led to rumours about his future in the team. He came eighth in the drivers' standings as Red Bull surrendered their team title to McLaren with a third-placed finish.
<h2>- 'Unforgettable experience' -</h2>
Perez was adamant during his difficult period that he would stay with the team for next season but he will now part ways with Red Bull with immediate effect.
"I'm incredibly grateful for the past four years with Red Bull Racing and for the opportunity to race with such an amazing team," Perez said. "Driving for Red Bull has been an unforgettable experience and I'll always cherish the successes we achieved together."
The veteran will not have a seat on the grid next season, but it remains to be seen whether he will sign a deal elsewhere for 2026.
"A special thank you to the fans around the world, and especially to the Mexican fans for your unwavering support every day. We'll meet again soon. And remember… Never give up," Perez added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/ligue-1-goalie-gianluigi-donnarumma-suffers-facial-injury-in-psgs-thrilling-win-over-monaco-785139">Ligue 1: Goalie Gianluigi Donnarumma suffers facial injury in PSG's thrilling win over Monaco</a>
Verstappen hailed his former team-mate on social media. "It's been an absolute pleasure driving alongside you", the Dutchman wrote. "We've had some amazing moments together that I'll always remember. Thank you, Checo!"
Red Bull said that "announcements regarding the team's full 2025 line-up will be made in due course". 
New Zealander Lawson, who currently drives for Red Bull sister team Racing Bulls, is considered the favourite to replace Perez. The 22-year-old has earned three top-10 finishes so far in his fledgling F1 career.
Lawson's fellow RB driver Yuki Tsunoda of Japan could also be in line for a promotion to the senior team, after the 24-year-old took part in post-season testing in Abu Dhabi for Red Bull.
"I would like to thank Checo (Perez) for all he has done for Red Bull Racing over the past four seasons," Red Bull team principal Christian Horner said in a statement. "From the moment he joined in 2021 he proved himself to be an extraordinary team player, helping us to two constructors' titles and to our first 1-2 finish in the drivers' championship.
"While Checo will not race for the team next season, he will always be an extremely popular team member and a treasured part of our history. Thank you, Checo."
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.

He won five Grands Prix over 90 starts in Red Bull colours, including a victory at the Monaco GP and a double in Azerbaijan. During the 2024 season, Perez and Red Bull signed a contract extension, tying the pair together until 2026.



Paris, France Red Bull announced Wednesday that under-pressure Mexican driver Sergio Perez has departed the Formula One outfit after four seasons with Liam Lawson tipped to become world champion Max Verstappen's new teammate. Perez, 34, joined Red Bull in 2021 and helped the team earn two constructors' titles and completed a drivers' standings one-two with four-time world champion Verstappen in 2023. He won five Grands Prix over 90 starts in Red Bull colours, including a victory at the Monaco GP and a double in Azerbaijan. During the 2024 season, Perez and Red Bull signed a contract extension, tying the pair together until 2026. However, the Guadalajara-native's form dropped drastically after that deal and he picked up just nine points from his final eight race weekends. This dip in form led to rumours about his future in the team. He came eighth in the drivers' standings as Red Bull surrendered their team title to McLaren with a third-placed finish. - 'Unforgettable experience' - Perez was adamant during his difficult period that he would stay with the team for next season but he will now part ways with Red Bull with immediate effect. "I'm incredibly grateful for the past four years with Red Bull Racing and for the opportunity to race with such an amazing team," Perez said. "Driving for Red Bull has been an unforgettable experience and I'll always cherish the successes we achieved together." The veteran will not have a seat on the grid next season, but it remains to be seen whether he will sign a deal elsewhere for 2026. "A special thank you to the fans around the world, and especially to the Mexican fans for your unwavering support every day. We'll meet again soon. And remember… Never give up," Perez added. Also read: Ligue 1: Goalie Gianluigi Donnarumma suffers facial injury in PSG's thrilling win over Monaco Verstappen hailed his former team-mate on social media. "It's been an absolute pleasure driving alongside you", the Dutchman wrote. "We've had some amazing moments together that I'll always remember. Thank you, Checo!" Red Bull said that "announcements regarding the team's full 2025 line-up will be made in due course". New Zealander Lawson, who currently drives for Red Bull sister team Racing Bulls, is considered the favourite to replace Perez. The 22-year-old has earned three top-10 finishes so far in his fledgling F1 career. Lawson's fellow RB driver Yuki Tsunoda of Japan could also be in line for a promotion to the senior team, after the 24-year-old took part in post-season testing in Abu Dhabi for Red Bull. "I would like to thank Checo (Perez) for all he has done for Red Bull Racing over the past four seasons," Red Bull team principal Christian Horner said in a statement. "From the moment he joined in 2021 he proved himself to be an extraordinary team player, helping us to two constructors' titles and to our first 1-2 finish in the drivers' championship. "While Checo will not race for the team next season, he will always be an extremely popular team member and a treasured part of our history. Thank you, Checo." 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.

Sergio Perez parts ways with Red Bull after season of struggles

New Delhi
After a third consecutive interest rate cut, Federal Reserve officials brought inflation worries back to the forefront as 2024 came to a close. The Fed did what markets expected Wednesday. But that didn't stop investors from dumping risk assets in droves.
Chair Jerome Powell bluntly said the Fed's inflation forecast for the remainder of the year has "kind of fallen apart." After nearly four years of failure, officials now anticipate that inflation will take far longer to attain their 2 per cent objective.
Powell said that any changes would depend on continued success in reducing price rises, and thus, they lowered their expectations for rate decreases next year. After viewing a weakening labour market as the bigger threat in September, policymakers have shifted their stance to place a higher emphasis on inflation.
However, new data and Trump's policies have rekindled worries that inflation will remain stubbornly high, beyond the central bank's 2 per cent target. Policymakers now only expect two rate cuts next year, which is half the number of reductions predicted in September.
Jerome Powell, the US Federal Reserve chair, said and I quote, "So I would say today was a closer call. But we decided it was the right call because we thought it was the best decision to foster achievement of both of our goals, maximum employment and price stability. We see the risks as two-sided, moving too slowly and needlessly undermine economic activity in the labour market, or move too quickly and needlessly undermine our progress on inflation. So, we're trying to steer between those two risks, and on balance, we decided to go ahead with a further cut. And I'll give you some details on why. Downside risks to the labour market do appear to have diminished, but the labour market is now looser than pre-pandemic, and it's clearly still cooling further so far in a gradual and orderly way. We don't think we need further cooling in the labour market to get inflation down to 2 per cent."
The market's reaction to the Fed's revised forecast was rapid and severe.
The US dollar surged to its best level in over two years while Wall Street stocks and the US Treasury fell. Despite being marginally higher before the announcement, the S&amp;P 500 index had its worst "Fed day" since March 2020, plunging 3 per cent.
Fed's hawkish bias jolted Asian markets, with regional stocks and currencies tumbling. South Korea's won fell to its weakest level since the financial crisis. The ringgit hit its weakest level against the dollar since August, while the Thai baht also fell.
Speculative assets, including bitcoin, retreated, and the price fell below 100,000 dollars. The digital asset fell about 1 per cent to 99,800 dollars. That followed a 5.1 per cent drop on Wednesday, the biggest retreat since September. 
(With inputs from the agencies)

Chair Jerome Powell bluntly said the Fed's inflation forecast for the remainder of the year has "kind of fallen apart." After nearly four years of failure, officials now anticipate that inflation will take far longer to attain their 2 per cent objective.



New Delhi After a third consecutive interest rate cut, Federal Reserve officials brought inflation worries back to the forefront as 2024 came to a close. The Fed did what markets expected Wednesday. But that didn't stop investors from dumping risk assets in droves. Chair Jerome Powell bluntly said the Fed's inflation forecast for the remainder of the year has "kind of fallen apart." After nearly four years of failure, officials now anticipate that inflation will take far longer to attain their 2 per cent objective. Powell said that any changes would depend on continued success in reducing price rises, and thus, they lowered their expectations for rate decreases next year. After viewing a weakening labour market as the bigger threat in September, policymakers have shifted their stance to place a higher emphasis on inflation. However, new data and Trump's policies have rekindled worries that inflation will remain stubbornly high, beyond the central bank's 2 per cent target. Policymakers now only expect two rate cuts next year, which is half the number of reductions predicted in September. Jerome Powell, the US Federal Reserve chair, said and I quote, "So I would say today was a closer call. But we decided it was the right call because we thought it was the best decision to foster achievement of both of our goals, maximum employment and price stability. We see the risks as two-sided, moving too slowly and needlessly undermine economic activity in the labour market, or move too quickly and needlessly undermine our progress on inflation. So, we're trying to steer between those two risks, and on balance, we decided to go ahead with a further cut. And I'll give you some details on why. Downside risks to the labour market do appear to have diminished, but the labour market is now looser than pre-pandemic, and it's clearly still cooling further so far in a gradual and orderly way. We don't think we need further cooling in the labour market to get inflation down to 2 per cent." The market's reaction to the Fed's revised forecast was rapid and severe. The US dollar surged to its best level in over two years while Wall Street stocks and the US Treasury fell. Despite being marginally higher before the announcement, the S&P 500 index had its worst "Fed day" since March 2020, plunging 3 per cent. Fed's hawkish bias jolted Asian markets, with regional stocks and currencies tumbling. South Korea's won fell to its weakest level since the financial crisis. The ringgit hit its weakest level against the dollar since August, while the Thai baht also fell. Speculative assets, including bitcoin, retreated, and the price fell below 100,000 dollars. The digital asset fell about 1 per cent to 99,800 dollars. That followed a 5.1 per cent drop on Wednesday, the biggest retreat since September. (With inputs from the agencies)

Fed's rate cut sparks inflation concerns, market selloff

Paris
Paris Saint-Germain came from behind to extend their unbeaten start to the Ligue 1 season with a 4-2 win away to Monaco on Wednesday but lost goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma to a gruesome facial injury.
The bloodied Italy international was left requiring 10 staples after suffering lacerations to the right side of his face when he was caught by the studs of Monaco defender Wilfried Singo.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ruben-amorim-admits-wanting-to-work-with-marcus-rashford-after-forward-drops-manchester-united-exit-hint-785014">Ruben Amorim admits wanting to work with Marcus Rashford after forward drops Manchester United exit hint</a>
"I don't know if the referee was badly positioned but VAR needed to intervene, you have to protect the players," said PSG captain Marquinhos.
"To not give a red in a situation like that, it's a big call."
Singo avoided any punishment for his clumsy but unintentional collision as Donnarumma was replaced by Matvey Safonov before Desire Doue gave PSG the lead with his first league goal for the reigning champions.
That came after Achraf Hakimi rattled the post with an intended cross, but Monaco hit back with two goals in seven second-half minutes.
Eliesse Ben Seghir converted a penalty awarded for a handball by Marquinhos to level.
Maghnes Akliouche then crossed for Breel Embolo to poke Monaco in front on the hour and put PSG's record 31-game unbeaten Ligue 1 away run in jeopardy.
Ousmane Dembele soon equalised and Goncalo Ramos headed in a corner shortly after coming on to swing the match back in PSG's favour. 
Lee Kang-in's long-range effort was tipped onto the post by Monaco goalkeeper Philipp Koehn before home coach Adi Huetter was sent off for his reaction to a penalty appeal being turned down following a challenge on Embolo.
Dembele struck again deep into stoppage time to seal victory and signal his return to form after reports of tension with PSG coach Luis Enrique in recent weeks.
The result opens up a 10-point gap between PSG and their closest challengers Marseille and Monaco, the last team to beat the capital club away from the Parc des Princes in March 2023. 
Luis Enrique's side go to Lens on Sunday in the last 64 of the French Cup in their final game of the year before a rematch with Monaco in the Champions Trophy in Doha on January 5.
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 bloodied Italy international was left requiring 10 staples after suffering lacerations to the right side of his face when he was caught by the studs of Monaco defender Wilfried Singo.



Paris Paris Saint-Germain came from behind to extend their unbeaten start to the Ligue 1 season with a 4-2 win away to Monaco on Wednesday but lost goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma to a gruesome facial injury. The bloodied Italy international was left requiring 10 staples after suffering lacerations to the right side of his face when he was caught by the studs of Monaco defender Wilfried Singo. Also Read: Ruben Amorim admits wanting to work with Marcus Rashford after forward drops Manchester United exit hint "I don't know if the referee was badly positioned but VAR needed to intervene, you have to protect the players," said PSG captain Marquinhos. "To not give a red in a situation like that, it's a big call." Singo avoided any punishment for his clumsy but unintentional collision as Donnarumma was replaced by Matvey Safonov before Desire Doue gave PSG the lead with his first league goal for the reigning champions. That came after Achraf Hakimi rattled the post with an intended cross, but Monaco hit back with two goals in seven second-half minutes. Eliesse Ben Seghir converted a penalty awarded for a handball by Marquinhos to level. Maghnes Akliouche then crossed for Breel Embolo to poke Monaco in front on the hour and put PSG's record 31-game unbeaten Ligue 1 away run in jeopardy. Ousmane Dembele soon equalised and Goncalo Ramos headed in a corner shortly after coming on to swing the match back in PSG's favour. Lee Kang-in's long-range effort was tipped onto the post by Monaco goalkeeper Philipp Koehn before home coach Adi Huetter was sent off for his reaction to a penalty appeal being turned down following a challenge on Embolo. Dembele struck again deep into stoppage time to seal victory and signal his return to form after reports of tension with PSG coach Luis Enrique in recent weeks. The result opens up a 10-point gap between PSG and their closest challengers Marseille and Monaco, the last team to beat the capital club away from the Parc des Princes in March 2023. Luis Enrique's side go to Lens on Sunday in the last 64 of the French Cup in their final game of the year before a rematch with Monaco in the Champions Trophy in Doha on January 5. 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.

Ligue 1: Goalie Gianluigi Donnarumma suffers facial injury in PSG's thrilling win over Monaco

Doha
Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior both scored as Real Madrid cruised to a 3-0 victory over Mexican side Pachuca in the Intercontinental Cup final in Doha on Wednesday.
Mbappe opened the scoring in the 37th minute before Rodrygo doubled Madrid's lead early in the second half. Vinicius sealed a comfortable win for the Spanish and European champions with a late penalty.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ruben-amorim-admits-wanting-to-work-with-marcus-rashford-after-forward-drops-manchester-united-exit-hint-785014">Ruben Amorim admits wanting to work with Marcus Rashford after forward drops Manchester United exit hint</a>
France striker Mbappe returned to the Madrid line-up in Doha after missing Saturday's 3-3 draw with Rayo Vallecano due to a hamstring injury suffered in the Champions League win at Atalanta last week.
Mbappe swept in from close range to break the deadlock after brilliant play from Vinicius Junior, who won the FIFA Best men's player of the year award a day earlier after missing out on the Ballon d'Or.
Former West Brom and Newcastle forward Salomon Rondon led the attack for CONCACAF Champions Cup winners Pachuca, but they never truly looked capable of an upset and Rodrygo's fine curling strike from the edge of the area put Madrid in total control.
It was allowed to stand after the referee consulted the pitchside monitor even though Jude Bellingham was in an offside position and appeared to be interfering with the goalkeeper's line of vision.
Vinicius added a third from the penalty spot six minutes from time following another VAR review after Lucas Vazquez was chopped down in the Pachuca box.
"We knew that after a long trip and playing just one game it's hard. We struggled at the beginning, but we adapted well," Madrid midfielder Fede Valverde told Spanish television channel Telecinco.
<h2>'Anxious' Ancelotti makes more history</h2>
It is Madrid's second title of the season following their UEFA Super Cup triumph over Atalanta in August, a welcome boost after what coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted had been a difficult period.
"In this part of the season I was a bit anxious because I didn't like the team, honestly, but this will change in 2025 I'm sure," said Ancelotti.
"It's important for us to get to Christmas alive. If we think about the team after the defeat by Milan (in the Champions League on November 5), I think we've grown a lot and that gives us confidence for 2025."
Ancelotti won his 15th trophy as Madrid coach, moving him past Miguel Munoz for the most in the club's history.
"It's a nice moment. It's an honour for me. Madrid are the club that everybody wants to coach because they're the best club in the world," said Ancelotti.
"It's easier than winning them in other places because you have a great team and fanbase."
This was the first edition of the FIFA-backed Intercontinental Cup, which broadly maintains the previous format of the Club World Cup and features the six continental champions.
The latter is being expanded to include 32 teams in 2025 and will now be played every four years. A past version of the Intercontinental Cup ran from 1960 to 2004 involving the champions of Europe and South America.
Madrid won that competition three times and then lifted the Club World Cup on a record five occasions.
They are to due to play Pachuca again at next year's Club World Cup in the United States, as well as an Al Hilal team including Neymar, and Red Bull Salzburg.
Madrid host Sevilla in La Liga on Sunday in their final game of the year. They will return to the Middle East in early January for the four-team Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia.
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.

Mbappe opened the scoring in the 37th minute before Rodrygo doubled Madrid's lead early in the second half. Vinicius sealed a comfortable win for the Spanish and European champions with a late penalty.



Doha Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior both scored as Real Madrid cruised to a 3-0 victory over Mexican side Pachuca in the Intercontinental Cup final in Doha on Wednesday. Mbappe opened the scoring in the 37th minute before Rodrygo doubled Madrid's lead early in the second half. Vinicius sealed a comfortable win for the Spanish and European champions with a late penalty. Also Read: Ruben Amorim admits wanting to work with Marcus Rashford after forward drops Manchester United exit hint France striker Mbappe returned to the Madrid line-up in Doha after missing Saturday's 3-3 draw with Rayo Vallecano due to a hamstring injury suffered in the Champions League win at Atalanta last week. Mbappe swept in from close range to break the deadlock after brilliant play from Vinicius Junior, who won the FIFA Best men's player of the year award a day earlier after missing out on the Ballon d'Or. Former West Brom and Newcastle forward Salomon Rondon led the attack for CONCACAF Champions Cup winners Pachuca, but they never truly looked capable of an upset and Rodrygo's fine curling strike from the edge of the area put Madrid in total control. It was allowed to stand after the referee consulted the pitchside monitor even though Jude Bellingham was in an offside position and appeared to be interfering with the goalkeeper's line of vision. Vinicius added a third from the penalty spot six minutes from time following another VAR review after Lucas Vazquez was chopped down in the Pachuca box. "We knew that after a long trip and playing just one game it's hard. We struggled at the beginning, but we adapted well," Madrid midfielder Fede Valverde told Spanish television channel Telecinco. 'Anxious' Ancelotti makes more history It is Madrid's second title of the season following their UEFA Super Cup triumph over Atalanta in August, a welcome boost after what coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted had been a difficult period. "In this part of the season I was a bit anxious because I didn't like the team, honestly, but this will change in 2025 I'm sure," said Ancelotti. "It's important for us to get to Christmas alive. If we think about the team after the defeat by Milan (in the Champions League on November 5), I think we've grown a lot and that gives us confidence for 2025." Ancelotti won his 15th trophy as Madrid coach, moving him past Miguel Munoz for the most in the club's history. "It's a nice moment. It's an honour for me. Madrid are the club that everybody wants to coach because they're the best club in the world," said Ancelotti. "It's easier than winning them in other places because you have a great team and fanbase." This was the first edition of the FIFA-backed Intercontinental Cup, which broadly maintains the previous format of the Club World Cup and features the six continental champions. The latter is being expanded to include 32 teams in 2025 and will now be played every four years. A past version of the Intercontinental Cup ran from 1960 to 2004 involving the champions of Europe and South America. Madrid won that competition three times and then lifted the Club World Cup on a record five occasions. They are to due to play Pachuca again at next year's Club World Cup in the United States, as well as an Al Hilal team including Neymar, and Red Bull Salzburg. Madrid host Sevilla in La Liga on Sunday in their final game of the year. They will return to the Middle East in early January for the four-team Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia. 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.

Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr. score as Real Madrid beat Pachuca to win Intercontinental Cup

London
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A court in the United Kingdom (UK) ruled on Wednesday (Dec 18) that police could seize more than $2.5 million (over 2 million pounds) to cover years of unpaid taxes from professional kickboxer turned influencers Andrew Tate and Tristan Tate. 
A report by the news agency Associated Press said that the Devon and Cornwall Police force went to Westminster's Magistrates' Court to claim the money, held in frozen bank accounts, from the Tate brothers and a woman only identified as J. 
At the court, Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring ruled that financial transactions by Andrew and Tristan were a "straightforward cheat" of the tax authorities.
One of these financial transactions included a transfer of almost $12 million into an account in the name of J.
<h2>'Tate brothers are serial tax evaders'</h2>
In the court, a lawyer for the Devon and Cornwall Police force said that the Tate brothers were serial tax evaders who failed to pay any tax on $26.68 million in revenue from their online businesses which include the popular Hustlers' University, War Room, and OnlyFans, between 2014 and 2022. 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/romanian-court-eases-travel-restrictions-on-andrew-tate-738452">Romanian court eases travel restrictions on Andrew Tate</a>
The Associated Press report said that during a court hearing in July, lawyer Sarah Clarke quoted from a video posted online by Andrew where he said, "When I lived in England I refused to pay tax."
Clarke said that J was not involved with the business of the Tate brothers. 
<h2>'They did nothing illegal'</h2>
On Wednesday, a lawyer for the Tate brothers said that the bank transfers were "entirely orthodox" for people who run online businesses. 
The lawyer said his clients spent money on a number of “exotic motor cars,” but did nothing illegal. The proceedings in this case are civil.
Also watch | Andrew Tate's cars seized
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Chief Magistrate Goldspring said in his ruling that the Tate brothers had been liable to register with the tax authorities and declare and pay tax on revenue in Britain and/or Romania, where they have lived since 2017.
Goldspring found that Andrew and Tristan's "entire financial arrangements are consistent with concerted tax evasion and money laundering."
<h2>Andrew responds to court ruling</h2>
Andrew Tate has reacted to the court ruling. In a post on X, Tate said, "First they said I was a human trafficker, but couldn't find a single girl to testify. So instead they stole all the money they could find from banks."
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When they fail to control your influence, they audit your influence.
When they fail to match your power, they nitpick your paperwork.
They want the world to believe that a man of mastery can be reduced to a headline in a lying newspaper.
The Matrix does not tolerate defiance,… <a href="https://t.co/b4XQnpq2AL">https://t.co/b4XQnpq2AL</a>
— Andrew Tate (@Cobratate) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cobratate/status/1869349683253891312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"If you speak against power they will do anything to destroy you," he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

A report by the news agency Associated Press said that the Devon and Cornwall Police went to Westminster's Magistrates' Court to claim the money, held in frozen bank accounts, from the Tate brothers and a woman only identified as J. 



London A court in the United Kingdom (UK) ruled on Wednesday (Dec 18) that police could seize more than $2.5 million (over 2 million pounds) to cover years of unpaid taxes from professional kickboxer turned influencers Andrew Tate and Tristan Tate. A report by the news agency Associated Press said that the Devon and Cornwall Police force went to Westminster's Magistrates' Court to claim the money, held in frozen bank accounts, from the Tate brothers and a woman only identified as J. At the court, Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring ruled that financial transactions by Andrew and Tristan were a "straightforward cheat" of the tax authorities. One of these financial transactions included a transfer of almost $12 million into an account in the name of J. 'Tate brothers are serial tax evaders' In the court, a lawyer for the Devon and Cornwall Police force said that the Tate brothers were serial tax evaders who failed to pay any tax on $26.68 million in revenue from their online businesses which include the popular Hustlers' University, War Room, and OnlyFans, between 2014 and 2022. Also read | Romanian court eases travel restrictions on Andrew Tate The Associated Press report said that during a court hearing in July, lawyer Sarah Clarke quoted from a video posted online by Andrew where he said, "When I lived in England I refused to pay tax." Clarke said that J was not involved with the business of the Tate brothers. 'They did nothing illegal' On Wednesday, a lawyer for the Tate brothers said that the bank transfers were "entirely orthodox" for people who run online businesses. The lawyer said his clients spent money on a number of “exotic motor cars,” but did nothing illegal. The proceedings in this case are civil. Also watch | Andrew Tate's cars seized Chief Magistrate Goldspring said in his ruling that the Tate brothers had been liable to register with the tax authorities and declare and pay tax on revenue in Britain and/or Romania, where they have lived since 2017. Goldspring found that Andrew and Tristan's "entire financial arrangements are consistent with concerted tax evasion and money laundering." Andrew responds to court ruling Andrew Tate has reacted to the court ruling. In a post on X, Tate said, "First they said I was a human trafficker, but couldn't find a single girl to testify. So instead they stole all the money they could find from banks." When they fail to control your influence, they audit your influence. When they fail to match your power, they nitpick your paperwork. They want the world to believe that a man of mastery can be reduced to a headline in a lying newspaper. The Matrix does not tolerate defiance,… https://t.co/b4XQnpq2AL — Andrew Tate (@Cobratate) December 18, 2024 × "If you speak against power they will do anything to destroy you," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

UK court rules cops can seize over $2.5 million from Andrew Tate and brother Tristan to cover unpaid taxes

Gabba, Brisbane
Ravichandran Ashwin has said goodbye to international cricket. Following the conclusion of the third BGT Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane on Wednesday (Dec 18), Ashwin called it quits at the top level, though he continues to play domestic cricket and IPL. Soon after he announced his decision to retire at the post-match presser, Ashwin rushed to the airport to fly back to India.
Because of the time constraint and the flight timings, a full-fledged get-together and dinner wasn't possible; however, his team members showered praises on his send-off.
ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ashwin-retires-no-decision-made-till-he-landed-in-perth-contemplated-hanging-boots-following-bgt-report-785075">Ashwin retires: No decision made till he landed in Perth; contemplated hanging boots following BGT - Report</a>
"Everyone said nice words to him, about him and gave him a very nice and emotional send-off. Yes, he is flying out of Brisbane tonight only and due to lack of enough time, a proper gathering wasn't possible at the team hotel," a source close to the information said, as quoted by the Times of India (TOI). 
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A Legend Bids Adieu to International Cricket ??
Hear what R Ashwin’s parting words were to the Indian dressing room ??<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> <a href="https://t.co/6wtwdDOmzX">https://t.co/6wtwdDOmzX</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1869336242829373740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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After quickly wrapping up the retirement announcement while sitting alongside team skipper Rohit Sharma, Ashwin gave a warm speech inside the dressing room, leaving everyone teary-eyed. 
"The international cricketer in me might have come to an end, but the cricket nut in me will never come to an end. I will be looking forward to each one of your performances, and all the very best," Ashwin said during an emotional signoff to his team. 
Besides, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins and ace spinner Nathan Lyon presented Ashwin with a special jersey. Upon leaving the arena after dropping a retirement bombshell, Ashwin was greeted with countless handshakes and hugs.
<h2>What happened at the Gabba?</h2>
Rain interruptions led to a draw in Brisbane, with the series scorecard reading 1-1 heading into the Boxing Day Test at the MCG starting December 26. 
Australia batted first at the Gabba, with only 13.2 overs possible on day one. Day two was all about Travis Head and his love affair with scoring runs against India as he slammed his second straight ton in the whites. Australia scored a whopping 445 in the first innings.
In reply, India scored 260 all out, with KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and the tailenders contributing with the bat. 
Australia suffered a mini-collapse in their second innings, getting reduced to 33 for five at one stage, with Pat Cummins declaring on 89 for seven, setting India 275 runs to win.
The visitors came out for a mere formality as the final rain interruption forced the umpires to call off the game, leading to no result. 
(With inputs from agencies)

Because of the time constraint and the flight timings, a full-fledged get-together and dinner wasn't possible; however, his team members showered praises on his send-off.



Gabba, Brisbane Ravichandran Ashwin has said goodbye to international cricket. Following the conclusion of the third BGT Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane on Wednesday (Dec 18), Ashwin called it quits at the top level, though he continues to play domestic cricket and IPL. Soon after he announced his decision to retire at the post-match presser, Ashwin rushed to the airport to fly back to India. Because of the time constraint and the flight timings, a full-fledged get-together and dinner wasn't possible; however, his team members showered praises on his send-off. ALSO READ: Ashwin retires: No decision made till he landed in Perth; contemplated hanging boots following BGT - Report "Everyone said nice words to him, about him and gave him a very nice and emotional send-off. Yes, he is flying out of Brisbane tonight only and due to lack of enough time, a proper gathering wasn't possible at the team hotel," a source close to the information said, as quoted by the Times of India (TOI). A Legend Bids Adieu to International Cricket ?? Hear what R Ashwin’s parting words were to the Indian dressing room ??#TeamIndia | @ashwinravi99 https://t.co/6wtwdDOmzX — BCCI (@BCCI) December 18, 2024 × After quickly wrapping up the retirement announcement while sitting alongside team skipper Rohit Sharma, Ashwin gave a warm speech inside the dressing room, leaving everyone teary-eyed. "The international cricketer in me might have come to an end, but the cricket nut in me will never come to an end. I will be looking forward to each one of your performances, and all the very best," Ashwin said during an emotional signoff to his team. Besides, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins and ace spinner Nathan Lyon presented Ashwin with a special jersey. Upon leaving the arena after dropping a retirement bombshell, Ashwin was greeted with countless handshakes and hugs. What happened at the Gabba? Rain interruptions led to a draw in Brisbane, with the series scorecard reading 1-1 heading into the Boxing Day Test at the MCG starting December 26. Australia batted first at the Gabba, with only 13.2 overs possible on day one. Day two was all about Travis Head and his love affair with scoring runs against India as he slammed his second straight ton in the whites. Australia scored a whopping 445 in the first innings. In reply, India scored 260 all out, with KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and the tailenders contributing with the bat. Australia suffered a mini-collapse in their second innings, getting reduced to 33 for five at one stage, with Pat Cummins declaring on 89 for seven, setting India 275 runs to win. The visitors came out for a mere formality as the final rain interruption forced the umpires to call off the game, leading to no result. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Hugs, emotional sendoffs and whatnot – Ravi Ashwin’s final moments as Indian cricketer

New Delhi, India
In a gripping narrative that unearths the harsh realities of Sri Lanka's civil war, Kagusthan Ariaratnam, a former child soldier of Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) turned intelligence operative, has released his memoir titled "Spy Tiger: The 05 File." Co-authored with Michael Bramadat-Willcock, the book offers a rare glimpse into the life of someone who was on both sides of the conflict, serving the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) before switching allegiances to work with Sri Lankan and Indian intelligence.
Ariaratnam's story begins in the classrooms of Kokkuvil Hindu College in Jaffna, where at 17, his life was abruptly redirected. "One day in 1991, while I was preparing for my advanced level mathematics exam, I was among 20 students taken to an LTTE camp," he recounts. 
The memoir delves into the complex world of espionage, where Ariaratnam, under the codename "Spy Tiger," navigated through the moral and ethical quagmires of war. His transition from a child soldier to an intelligence agent is not just a tale of survival but also of the profound psychological and ethical challenges he faced.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-ltte-chief-velupillai-prabhakaran-alive-declares-tamil-nationalist-leader-army-slams-the-claim-561556">Also read: Sri Lanka Army dismisses claim of Tamil politician that LTTE ex-chief Velupillai Prabhakaran is still alive</a>
A key aspect of the book is Ariaratnam's acknowledgment of the Indian spymaster B. Raman, whom he credits with saving his life. "Raman stepped out of the shadows to save my life from terror and horror in Sri Lanka," Ariaratnam writes, expressing gratitude for the protection and guidance he received from Raman, whom he describes as a "silent guardian."
"Spy Tiger: The 05 File" not only chronicles Ariaratnam's personal journey but also sheds light on the broader implications of the Sri Lankan civil war, the role of child soldiers, and the intricacies of espionage that often go unseen by the public eye.
In his book, he claimed that between 1992-95, India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) was involved in a covert operation within the LTTE to eliminate the LTTE supreme leader Veluppillai Prabhakaran following the assassination of Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi by a Tamil Tiger female suicide bomber. 
He also detailed how he worked with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

Ariaratnam's story begins in the classrooms of Kokkuvil Hindu College in Jaffna, where at 17, his life was abruptly redirected.



New Delhi, India In a gripping narrative that unearths the harsh realities of Sri Lanka's civil war, Kagusthan Ariaratnam, a former child soldier of Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) turned intelligence operative, has released his memoir titled "Spy Tiger: The 05 File." Co-authored with Michael Bramadat-Willcock, the book offers a rare glimpse into the life of someone who was on both sides of the conflict, serving the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) before switching allegiances to work with Sri Lankan and Indian intelligence. Ariaratnam's story begins in the classrooms of Kokkuvil Hindu College in Jaffna, where at 17, his life was abruptly redirected. "One day in 1991, while I was preparing for my advanced level mathematics exam, I was among 20 students taken to an LTTE camp," he recounts. The memoir delves into the complex world of espionage, where Ariaratnam, under the codename "Spy Tiger," navigated through the moral and ethical quagmires of war. His transition from a child soldier to an intelligence agent is not just a tale of survival but also of the profound psychological and ethical challenges he faced. Also read: Sri Lanka Army dismisses claim of Tamil politician that LTTE ex-chief Velupillai Prabhakaran is still alive A key aspect of the book is Ariaratnam's acknowledgment of the Indian spymaster B. Raman, whom he credits with saving his life. "Raman stepped out of the shadows to save my life from terror and horror in Sri Lanka," Ariaratnam writes, expressing gratitude for the protection and guidance he received from Raman, whom he describes as a "silent guardian." "Spy Tiger: The 05 File" not only chronicles Ariaratnam's personal journey but also sheds light on the broader implications of the Sri Lankan civil war, the role of child soldiers, and the intricacies of espionage that often go unseen by the public eye. In his book, he claimed that between 1992-95, India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) was involved in a covert operation within the LTTE to eliminate the LTTE supreme leader Veluppillai Prabhakaran following the assassination of Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi by a Tamil Tiger female suicide bomber. He also detailed how he worked with the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

From child soldier to spy: Ariaratnam's memoirs shed light on Sri Lankan Civil war

Mumbai, India
In a shocking incident, a naked man entered the women’s compartment of a Mumbai local train on Monday (Dec 16), causing panic among the female passengers.
The incident occurred around 4 pm on the AC local train travelling from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to Kalyan. According to a Times of India report, the man entered the train at Ghatkopar station.
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Mumbai Local Viral Video, naked man in mumbai local train <a href="https://t.co/kjTGnnCkyd">pic.twitter.com/kjTGnnCkyd</a>
— Chinmay jagtap (@Chinmayjagtap18) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chinmayjagtap18/status/1868944226714894566?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The presence of the naked man caused a commotion among the women in the compartment. The passengers asked him to leave, but the man refused. Due to the commotion and shouting, the motorman stopped the train. The women then called the ticket collector on the train, who was in the adjoining coach. The man was then forced to leave at the next station.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-restaurant-pays-tribute-to-bengaluru-techie-atul-subhash-in-a-touching-message-on-bill-785040">Delhi restaurant pays tribute to Bengaluru techie Atul Subhash with a touching message on bill</a>
The incident was caught on camera and has been circulating widely on social media, where women can be seen shouting at the naked man, telling him to deboard the train. The man can be seen standing near the doorway as he refuses to leave. The footage also captures railway personnel pushing the man out of the train. 
<h2>Social media reacts to viral video</h2>
However, social media users had a different opinion about the incident. Many users noted that the man could be suffering from a mental illness and should have received help.
“Not good! The person was mentally challenged and required medical help instead of pushing him out of the train,” a user wrote.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-carries-palestine-emblazoned-bag-in-parliament-stirs-controversy-784334">Priyanka Gandhi carries 'Palestine' emblazoned bag in Parliament, stirs controversy</a>
Another user said, “Insensitive TC and ignorant women. Obviously, he is not doing it purposely - he is mentally challenged.”
Some users questioned how he was able to board the train after coming through the station, raising safety concerns.
Following the incident, the Government Railway Police (GRP) said that the man was mentally unwell and boarded the train mistakenly. He was provided clothes and escorted out of the station premises.
(With inputs from agencies)

The incident occurred around 4 pm on the AC local train from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to Kalyan. According to a Times of India report, the man entered the train at Ghatkopar station



Mumbai, India In a shocking incident, a naked man entered the women’s compartment of a Mumbai local train on Monday (Dec 16), causing panic among the female passengers. The incident occurred around 4 pm on the AC local train travelling from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to Kalyan. According to a Times of India report, the man entered the train at Ghatkopar station. Mumbai Local Viral Video, naked man in mumbai local train pic.twitter.com/kjTGnnCkyd — Chinmay jagtap (@Chinmayjagtap18) December 17, 2024 × The presence of the naked man caused a commotion among the women in the compartment. The passengers asked him to leave, but the man refused. Due to the commotion and shouting, the motorman stopped the train. The women then called the ticket collector on the train, who was in the adjoining coach. The man was then forced to leave at the next station. Also read | Delhi restaurant pays tribute to Bengaluru techie Atul Subhash with a touching message on bill The incident was caught on camera and has been circulating widely on social media, where women can be seen shouting at the naked man, telling him to deboard the train. The man can be seen standing near the doorway as he refuses to leave. The footage also captures railway personnel pushing the man out of the train. Social media reacts to viral video However, social media users had a different opinion about the incident. Many users noted that the man could be suffering from a mental illness and should have received help. “Not good! The person was mentally challenged and required medical help instead of pushing him out of the train,” a user wrote. Also read | Priyanka Gandhi carries 'Palestine' emblazoned bag in Parliament, stirs controversy Another user said, “Insensitive TC and ignorant women. Obviously, he is not doing it purposely - he is mentally challenged.” Some users questioned how he was able to board the train after coming through the station, raising safety concerns. Following the incident, the Government Railway Police (GRP) said that the man was mentally unwell and boarded the train mistakenly. He was provided clothes and escorted out of the station premises. (With inputs from agencies)

Naked man enters women’s compartment of Mumbai local train sparking panic: Watch

Paris, France
Bitcoin’s soaring value has caught the attention of high-end fashion brands and retailers, prompting further interest in offering cryptocurrencies as a means of payment to tap into fresh pockets of wealth and build loyalty with crypto investors. 
Until recently, only a handful of luxury brands including LVMH watch labels Hublot and Tag Heuer as well as Kering-owned fashion brands Gucci and Balenciaga have experimented with crypto payment offers.
In recent weeks, upscale French luxury department store Printemps announced it was teaming up with the world’s largest crypto exchange, Binance, and French financial tech company Lyzi to accept cryptocurrencies including bitcoin and ethereum in its stores in France – becoming the first European department store to do so. The move, coming as bitcoin rises, has been noticed by other brands and retailers who are showing interest in joining in.
“There have been quite a few calls – it’s generated interest,” said David Princay, president of Binance France, who said the company is in talks with other luxury labels.
Luxury lighter and pen maker S.T. Dupont told Reuters it aims to accept cryptocurrency payments in two Paris stores before the holidays.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/bitcoin-hits-106000-amid-trumps-pro-crypto-push-784305">Also read: Bitcoin hits $106,000 amid Trump’s pro-crypto push</a>
In the realm of experiences, cruise company Virgin Voyages began this month offering its first product accepting Bitcoin as a payment option – a $120,000 annual pass for up to a year of sailing on its cruise ships.
Regulators have long warned that cryptocurrencies like bitcoin are high-risk assets, with limited uses in the real world. High volatility has been another barrier to wide adoption as a means of payment.
But pledges of support from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who is expected to bring in more friendly e-currency regulation, have fueled record-breaking rises for Bitcoin. S&amp;P analysts say the narrative is starting to shift, noting that blockchain innovation in financial markets could increase predictability for cryptocurrencies.
<h2>Seeking innovative branding</h2>
Luxury labels have long sought to cater to affluent shoppers from the tech industry by opening stores in upscale Silicon Valley malls and issuing products like the Hermes Apple Watch, for example, which combines signature, stitched leather straps of the French Birkin bag maker with tech giant Apple’s connected timepiece. 
Now, the new wealth generated by Bitcoin’s recent highs – topping $107,000 on Monday – comes as the luxury industry faces its biggest slump in years and searches for new sources of growth.
Offering cryptocurrency payments can be a way for companies to brand themselves as innovative rather than “a stuffy old brand that’s only selling to the boomers,” said Andrew O’Neill, digital assets lead analyst at S&amp;P Global Ratings.
The payment option remains largely symbolic. Retailers usually reconvert the funds to euros or dollars to offset risks of volatility, while for most shoppers, payment methods are seen overall as “something that’s been solved” already by such transaction platforms as PayPal or Venmo, said O’Neill. 
Watch | Bitcoin Smashes Records as Trump Signals Strategic Reserve Plans
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But for bitcoin investors who have seen a strong rise in the value of their investment, luxury goods – a designer handbag or high-end watch – are an obvious choice for diversifying one’s portfolio, analysts say.
In a sign of growing interest from designer labels, Balenciaga recently issued a leather card holder designed to hold “Stax” hardware from crypto wallet company Ledger. The black leather accessory, which retails for 350 euros ($368), includes a keychain and Eiffel Tower charm, and an NFC chip fitted underneath the brand logo. Ledger’s Stax Crypto hardware, its recently developed higher-end hardware with a curved touch screen, sells for $399 at Best Buy . The company’s “Flex” hardware, which resembles a mini Amazon Kindle, sells for $249 while the “Nano” version, which looks like a USB key, sells for $79. 
Gregory Boutte, chief client and digital officer for luxury conglomerate Kering, has described the group’s strategy when it comes to technology as “test and learn” rather than “wait and see.” He emphasized the embrace of new technologies as key to reaching younger and Asian clientele.
Kering’s star label, Gucci, has since 2022 made purchases available through 10 cryptocurrencies for most of its products in the United States. 
Printemps is working to expand its crypto payments service to New York City, where it plans to open a multibrand retailer in the Wall Street district in March.
Bitcoin’s rise in late 2021 prompted an initial flurry of interest from luxury brands with Tag Heuer, headed at the time by LVMH luxury scion Frederic Arnault, as well as Gucci, accepting payments in cryptocurrency the following year for some purchases in the United States. 
One crypto advocate who recently used digital assets to make luxury purchases is Eunice Wong, an investor and influencer known as “Eunicorn.”
Wong said she used cryptocurrency to buy several high-end watches this year including an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak model. However she is not interested in being drawn in by high-end brands seeking to build a closer client relationship, preferring to bypass traditional retail stores and sales routines. That takes too much time, in her view. “If I will buy, I’ll buy on the secondary market, not through them,” she told Reuters. “I want it now.”
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.

Until recently, only a handful of luxury brands like LVMH watch labels Hublot and Tag Heuer as well as Kering-owned fashion brands Gucci and Balenciaga have experimented with crypto payment offers.



Paris, France Bitcoin’s soaring value has caught the attention of high-end fashion brands and retailers, prompting further interest in offering cryptocurrencies as a means of payment to tap into fresh pockets of wealth and build loyalty with crypto investors. Until recently, only a handful of luxury brands including LVMH watch labels Hublot and Tag Heuer as well as Kering-owned fashion brands Gucci and Balenciaga have experimented with crypto payment offers. In recent weeks, upscale French luxury department store Printemps announced it was teaming up with the world’s largest crypto exchange, Binance, and French financial tech company Lyzi to accept cryptocurrencies including bitcoin and ethereum in its stores in France – becoming the first European department store to do so. The move, coming as bitcoin rises, has been noticed by other brands and retailers who are showing interest in joining in. “There have been quite a few calls – it’s generated interest,” said David Princay, president of Binance France, who said the company is in talks with other luxury labels. Luxury lighter and pen maker S.T. Dupont told Reuters it aims to accept cryptocurrency payments in two Paris stores before the holidays. Also read: Bitcoin hits $106,000 amid Trump’s pro-crypto push In the realm of experiences, cruise company Virgin Voyages began this month offering its first product accepting Bitcoin as a payment option – a $120,000 annual pass for up to a year of sailing on its cruise ships. Regulators have long warned that cryptocurrencies like bitcoin are high-risk assets, with limited uses in the real world. High volatility has been another barrier to wide adoption as a means of payment. But pledges of support from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who is expected to bring in more friendly e-currency regulation, have fueled record-breaking rises for Bitcoin. S&P analysts say the narrative is starting to shift, noting that blockchain innovation in financial markets could increase predictability for cryptocurrencies. Seeking innovative branding Luxury labels have long sought to cater to affluent shoppers from the tech industry by opening stores in upscale Silicon Valley malls and issuing products like the Hermes Apple Watch, for example, which combines signature, stitched leather straps of the French Birkin bag maker with tech giant Apple’s connected timepiece. Now, the new wealth generated by Bitcoin’s recent highs – topping $107,000 on Monday – comes as the luxury industry faces its biggest slump in years and searches for new sources of growth. Offering cryptocurrency payments can be a way for companies to brand themselves as innovative rather than “a stuffy old brand that’s only selling to the boomers,” said Andrew O’Neill, digital assets lead analyst at S&P Global Ratings. The payment option remains largely symbolic. Retailers usually reconvert the funds to euros or dollars to offset risks of volatility, while for most shoppers, payment methods are seen overall as “something that’s been solved” already by such transaction platforms as PayPal or Venmo, said O’Neill. Watch | Bitcoin Smashes Records as Trump Signals Strategic Reserve Plans × But for bitcoin investors who have seen a strong rise in the value of their investment, luxury goods – a designer handbag or high-end watch – are an obvious choice for diversifying one’s portfolio, analysts say. In a sign of growing interest from designer labels, Balenciaga recently issued a leather card holder designed to hold “Stax” hardware from crypto wallet company Ledger. The black leather accessory, which retails for 350 euros ($368), includes a keychain and Eiffel Tower charm, and an NFC chip fitted underneath the brand logo. Ledger’s Stax Crypto hardware, its recently developed higher-end hardware with a curved touch screen, sells for $399 at Best Buy . The company’s “Flex” hardware, which resembles a mini Amazon Kindle, sells for $249 while the “Nano” version, which looks like a USB key, sells for $79. Gregory Boutte, chief client and digital officer for luxury conglomerate Kering, has described the group’s strategy when it comes to technology as “test and learn” rather than “wait and see.” He emphasized the embrace of new technologies as key to reaching younger and Asian clientele. Kering’s star label, Gucci, has since 2022 made purchases available through 10 cryptocurrencies for most of its products in the United States. Printemps is working to expand its crypto payments service to New York City, where it plans to open a multibrand retailer in the Wall Street district in March. Bitcoin’s rise in late 2021 prompted an initial flurry of interest from luxury brands with Tag Heuer, headed at the time by LVMH luxury scion Frederic Arnault, as well as Gucci, accepting payments in cryptocurrency the following year for some purchases in the United States. One crypto advocate who recently used digital assets to make luxury purchases is Eunice Wong, an investor and influencer known as “Eunicorn.” Wong said she used cryptocurrency to buy several high-end watches this year including an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak model. However she is not interested in being drawn in by high-end brands seeking to build a closer client relationship, preferring to bypass traditional retail stores and sales routines. That takes too much time, in her view. “If I will buy, I’ll buy on the secondary market, not through them,” she told Reuters. “I want it now.” 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.

Luxury brands to consider accepting crypto payments as bitcoin soars

Bolivia
Bolivian ex-president Evo Morales accused his successor on Tuesday of launching a "brutal judicial war" against him after prosecutors issued an arrest warrant over his alleged relationship with a minor while in office.
Morales, one of Latin America's longest-serving leaders, has been locked in a months-long standoff with the state over accusations he fathered a child in 2016 with a 15-year-old girl.
On Monday, public prosecutor Sandra Gutierrez confirmed that she had issued an arrest warrant for the country's 2006-2019 leader on charges of "human trafficking involving a minor."
She called for him to be placed in preventive custody for six months.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolivia-court-ruling-bars-ex-leader-morales-from-presidency-774796">Also read: Bolivia court ruling bars ex-leader Morales from presidency</a>
Morales has repeatedly denied the allegations against him, claiming they are part of a plot by incumbent President Luis Arce—a former ally turned rival—to prevent him from staging a political comeback.
Writing on X, the 65-year-old Morales, a left-wing nationalist, accused Arce of being behind the case against him, which he alleged was aimed at currying favor with the United States.
"I denounce to the world that I am the victim of a brutal judicial war (lawfare) carried out by the government of Luis Arce, who promised to hand me over to the US as a trophy of war," he wrote.
Morales's lawyer, Nelson Cox, told AFP on Tuesday that his client was in hiding in his central political stronghold of Cochabamba and would not surrender to the police.
<h2>'Climbing the political ladder' </h2>
A former coca farmer who grew up in grinding poverty, Morales made history as Bolivia's first Indigenous leader but lost support after trying to cling to power for a third term.
In October, prosecutors said they were investigating him for statutory rape—sex with a minor—as well as human trafficking and smuggling, but have since focused on trafficking.
They believe the girl was placed by her parents in the youth guard of Morales's political movement when he was president "with the sole purpose of climbing the political ladder and obtaining benefits... in exchange for their underage daughter."
The girl's father has been in preventive custody since October.
Morales's lawyers claim he was already investigated over the same allegations in 2020 but that the case was dismissed for lack of evidence.
Watch | Bolivians Struggle As Fuel &amp; Food Prices Skyrocket
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Gutierrez said the warrant against Morales was issued on October 16 but that it had been "impossible" to execute it because of resistance from his supporters.
Between mid-October and early November, Morales's mostly Indigenous supporters barricaded highways leading to Cochabamba to prevent his threatened arrest.
The blockade, which caused widespread shortages of food and fuel, lasted for 23 days.
<h2>Eyeing third term </h2>
Dozens of security force members were injured in clashes with the protesters.
At one point Morales accused Arce of trying to have him assassinated, with a video showing a pickup truck in which he had travelled riddled with bullet holes and his driver bleeding from the head.
The government said police shot at his vehicle after coming under fire from his convoy at a police checkpoint.
Morales's refusal to give up power in 2019 after two terms led to a tumultuous exit that cast a shadow over nearly 14 years of economic progress and poverty reduction.
Forced to resign after elections tainted by fraud, he slipped away into exile in Argentina, returning home a year later.
Despite being barred by Bolivia's courts from seeking a third term, he is seeking the nomination of the left-wing MAS party in the August 2025 presidential elections.
In September, he led a march of thousands of Bolivians on the capital, La Paz, to protest Arce's policies.
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.

Morales, one of Latin America's longest-serving leaders, has been locked in a months-long standoff with the state over accusations that he fathered a child in 2016 with a 15-year-old girl.



Bolivia Bolivian ex-president Evo Morales accused his successor on Tuesday of launching a "brutal judicial war" against him after prosecutors issued an arrest warrant over his alleged relationship with a minor while in office. Morales, one of Latin America's longest-serving leaders, has been locked in a months-long standoff with the state over accusations he fathered a child in 2016 with a 15-year-old girl. On Monday, public prosecutor Sandra Gutierrez confirmed that she had issued an arrest warrant for the country's 2006-2019 leader on charges of "human trafficking involving a minor." She called for him to be placed in preventive custody for six months. Also read: Bolivia court ruling bars ex-leader Morales from presidency Morales has repeatedly denied the allegations against him, claiming they are part of a plot by incumbent President Luis Arce—a former ally turned rival—to prevent him from staging a political comeback. Writing on X, the 65-year-old Morales, a left-wing nationalist, accused Arce of being behind the case against him, which he alleged was aimed at currying favor with the United States. "I denounce to the world that I am the victim of a brutal judicial war (lawfare) carried out by the government of Luis Arce, who promised to hand me over to the US as a trophy of war," he wrote. Morales's lawyer, Nelson Cox, told AFP on Tuesday that his client was in hiding in his central political stronghold of Cochabamba and would not surrender to the police. 'Climbing the political ladder' A former coca farmer who grew up in grinding poverty, Morales made history as Bolivia's first Indigenous leader but lost support after trying to cling to power for a third term. In October, prosecutors said they were investigating him for statutory rape—sex with a minor—as well as human trafficking and smuggling, but have since focused on trafficking. They believe the girl was placed by her parents in the youth guard of Morales's political movement when he was president "with the sole purpose of climbing the political ladder and obtaining benefits... in exchange for their underage daughter." The girl's father has been in preventive custody since October. Morales's lawyers claim he was already investigated over the same allegations in 2020 but that the case was dismissed for lack of evidence. Watch | Bolivians Struggle As Fuel & Food Prices Skyrocket × Gutierrez said the warrant against Morales was issued on October 16 but that it had been "impossible" to execute it because of resistance from his supporters. Between mid-October and early November, Morales's mostly Indigenous supporters barricaded highways leading to Cochabamba to prevent his threatened arrest. The blockade, which caused widespread shortages of food and fuel, lasted for 23 days. Eyeing third term Dozens of security force members were injured in clashes with the protesters. At one point Morales accused Arce of trying to have him assassinated, with a video showing a pickup truck in which he had travelled riddled with bullet holes and his driver bleeding from the head. The government said police shot at his vehicle after coming under fire from his convoy at a police checkpoint. Morales's refusal to give up power in 2019 after two terms led to a tumultuous exit that cast a shadow over nearly 14 years of economic progress and poverty reduction. Forced to resign after elections tainted by fraud, he slipped away into exile in Argentina, returning home a year later. Despite being barred by Bolivia's courts from seeking a third term, he is seeking the nomination of the left-wing MAS party in the August 2025 presidential elections. In September, he led a march of thousands of Bolivians on the capital, La Paz, to protest Arce's policies. 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.

Bolivian ex-prez slams 'brutal judicial war' after arrest warrant issued against him in sexual abuse case

New Delhi, India
As Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continued his fast-unto-death, the Supreme Court on Wednesday (Dec 18) directed the Punjab government to extend him immediate medical aid, saying that if something happens, the "entire state machinery will be blamed". 
The 70-year-old farmer leader has been on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border point between Punjab and Haryana since November 26.
The court further said that there would be serious repercussions if something untoward happened to him. 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-farmers-protest-rail-roko-agitation-in-punjab-travellers-may-face-inconvenience-784880">Also read: India farmers' protest: 'Rail roko' agitation in Punjab, travellers face inconvenience</a>
“He needs to be healthy to agitate… As an elected government and a constitutional organ, you would not like to invite the blame that something happened to him… Even farmers should be concerned about saving their life. He’s their leader! You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly,” a Bench led by Justice Surya Kant told the central and state governments. 
This comes as the Punjab government pointed out that Dallewal has refused medical treatment despite his health deteriorating and has vowed to sacrifice his life for farmers' rights. 
The court stressed that Dallewal is a leader of the farmers, and no leniency can be shown in such a situation. 
"He's (Mr Dallewal) their leader. The farmers should also be concerned about his health... You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly," he added. 
Watch | Delhi Farmers Protest Explained: Why Are Farmers Protesting and What Are Their Demands?
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The apex court emphasised that the court's doors are always open for farmers' demands, and they can visit and express their grievances. 
"We clarify that the court's doors are always open to any suggestion or demand by farmers directly or through their authorised representative," it said. 
Dallewal had been on a hunger strike for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and to seek justice for the injured farmers.
The doctors are warning that he may suffer a heart attack as his health is worsening. Despite the fact he knows about these risks, Dallewal is keen to continue his protest till his demands are met.
(With inputs from agencies)

The court further said that there would be serious repercussions if something untoward happened to farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal. 



New Delhi, India As Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continued his fast-unto-death, the Supreme Court on Wednesday (Dec 18) directed the Punjab government to extend him immediate medical aid, saying that if something happens, the "entire state machinery will be blamed". The 70-year-old farmer leader has been on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border point between Punjab and Haryana since November 26. The court further said that there would be serious repercussions if something untoward happened to him. Also read: India farmers' protest: 'Rail roko' agitation in Punjab, travellers face inconvenience “He needs to be healthy to agitate… As an elected government and a constitutional organ, you would not like to invite the blame that something happened to him… Even farmers should be concerned about saving their life. He’s their leader! You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly,” a Bench led by Justice Surya Kant told the central and state governments. This comes as the Punjab government pointed out that Dallewal has refused medical treatment despite his health deteriorating and has vowed to sacrifice his life for farmers' rights. The court stressed that Dallewal is a leader of the farmers, and no leniency can be shown in such a situation. "He's (Mr Dallewal) their leader. The farmers should also be concerned about his health... You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly," he added. Watch | Delhi Farmers Protest Explained: Why Are Farmers Protesting and What Are Their Demands? × The apex court emphasised that the court's doors are always open for farmers' demands, and they can visit and express their grievances. "We clarify that the court's doors are always open to any suggestion or demand by farmers directly or through their authorised representative," it said. Dallewal had been on a hunger strike for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and to seek justice for the injured farmers. The doctors are warning that he may suffer a heart attack as his health is worsening. Despite the fact he knows about these risks, Dallewal is keen to continue his protest till his demands are met. (With inputs from agencies)

Farmers' protest: SC warns Punjab govt if something happens to farmers 'entire state machinery to be blamed'

United States/Canada
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Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a banned organisation in India under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), has claimed that the Russian embassy in Canada facilitated the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani terrorist, by sharing "signal intelligence) with the Indian intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (R&amp;AW). 
In a recent statement, SFJ leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, designated a terrorist by India, alleged that Indian Ambassador to the United States (US) Vinay Kwatra, in coordination with Russian Ambassador to Canada, Oleg Stepanov, was running a surveillance and spy network in the US and Canada. 
<h2>Russian embassy in Canada hacked Nijjar's Telegram account</h2>
Hardeep Singh Nijjar was shot dead by unidentified men on June 18 last year.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-assures-safety-of-indian-ambassador-kwatra-amid-threats-from-pannun-784958">US assures safety of Indian Ambassador Kwatra amid threats from Pannun</a>
Nijjar's death triggered a diplomatic row between Canada and India, with Ottawa saying it suspected India's involvement in the killing and New Delhi calling the allegation "absurd."
In his statement, Pannun said that the Russian embassy in Canada hacked Nijjar's Telegram account just weeks before his killing to facilitate India track his movements.
"Simultaneously, Russian Agency hacked Telegram account of Pannun, SFJ General Counsel, and shared location and movements with RAW Officials in planning the since foiled Murder For Hire Plot," the statement added.
<h2>Reward for tip on public engagements of Kwatra and Stepanov</h2>
Pannun also said that the SFJ has announced a $25,000 reward for providing a tip on any upcoming public engagements of Vinay Kwatra and Oleg Stepanov.
Also watch | Gravitas: Why is Canada protecting terrorist Pannun?
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"Pro-Khalistan Sikhs are going to question the Indian and Russian ambassadors on their Role in violent attacks on pro-Khalistan Sikhs on Canadian and American Soil," he added. 
(With inputs from agencies)

Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, designated a terrorist by India, has said that Indian Ambassador to the United States (US) Vinay Kwatra, in coordination with Russian Ambassador to Canada, Oleg Stepanov, was running a surveillance and spy network in the US and Canada. 



United States/Canada Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a banned organisation in India under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), has claimed that the Russian embassy in Canada facilitated the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani terrorist, by sharing "signal intelligence) with the Indian intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW). In a recent statement, SFJ leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, designated a terrorist by India, alleged that Indian Ambassador to the United States (US) Vinay Kwatra, in coordination with Russian Ambassador to Canada, Oleg Stepanov, was running a surveillance and spy network in the US and Canada. Russian embassy in Canada hacked Nijjar's Telegram account Hardeep Singh Nijjar was shot dead by unidentified men on June 18 last year. Also read | US assures safety of Indian Ambassador Kwatra amid threats from Pannun Nijjar's death triggered a diplomatic row between Canada and India, with Ottawa saying it suspected India's involvement in the killing and New Delhi calling the allegation "absurd." In his statement, Pannun said that the Russian embassy in Canada hacked Nijjar's Telegram account just weeks before his killing to facilitate India track his movements. "Simultaneously, Russian Agency hacked Telegram account of Pannun, SFJ General Counsel, and shared location and movements with RAW Officials in planning the since foiled Murder For Hire Plot," the statement added. Reward for tip on public engagements of Kwatra and Stepanov Pannun also said that the SFJ has announced a $25,000 reward for providing a tip on any upcoming public engagements of Vinay Kwatra and Oleg Stepanov. Also watch | Gravitas: Why is Canada protecting terrorist Pannun? "Pro-Khalistan Sikhs are going to question the Indian and Russian ambassadors on their Role in violent attacks on pro-Khalistan Sikhs on Canadian and American Soil," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian embassy in Canada facilitated Hardeep Singh Nijjar's assassination: SFJ

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