New Delhi, India 
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Indian finance minister Sitharaman said that the total assets worth Rs 22,280 crore have been recovered and returned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to public and private banks and deceived investors. This shows the determination of the government in tackling financial crimes and misdirected money.
In Lok Sabha's discussion over Supplementary Demands for Grants, Sitharaman called up the ED's work opening, blaming no one and saying, “We haven’t spared anyone, even those who fled the country. The ED has worked to ensure that money rightfully belonging to banks and investors is recovered and returned.”
<h2>Major asset recoveries by the ED</h2>
Among the high-profile cases, the ED has seized assets worth:
&gt;Rs 14,131.6 crore from the fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya, which has been returned to the public sector banks.
&gt;Rs 1,052.58 crore from Nirav Modi, which was given to public and private banks.
&gt;Rs. 2,565.90 crore from Mehul Choksi, plans to auction these assets. 
&gt;In addition, assets of Rs 17.47 crore recovered from the NSEL scam have been returned to defrauded investors.
Sitharaman, giving the last word on the government's position, said, “We are after them. We will ensure that stolen assets are recovered and returned to their rightful owners, including banks and investors.”
<h2>Impact of the black money act</h2>
The Black Money Act passed in 2015 proved very effective in discovering undisclosed wealth. Sitharaman stressed a phenomenal increase in voluntary declaration of foreign assets by taxpayers from 60,467 in 2021-22 to more than 2 lakh in 2024-25. 
Under this act:
&gt;Demands worth Rs 17,520 crore have been raised in 697 cases.
&gt;163 prosecutions have been initiated against offenders.
Furthermore, the act has led to the detection of undisclosed income of Rs 33,393 crore across 582 cases.
<h3>High-profile investigations underway</h3>
The government looks ahead to such cases pertaining to global leaks such as the Panama Papers, Pandora Papers, HSBC, and ICIJ leaks. In order to fast-track these investigations, the MAG, or multi-agency group, has the government looking forward to cases related to global leaks such as the Panama Papers, Pandora Papers, HSBC, and ICIJ leaks. To fast-track these investigations, the MAG, or Multi-Agency Group, has been set up to ensure coordinated action by various enforcement bodies.
Until today, 120 cases related to foreign assets remain under active scrutiny.
More than Rs 22,000 crore of recovery registers on behalf of ED, which is a great consolation and a significant realization of the efficiency with which this agency has been tackling economic offences and returning wealth to the Indian economy.
(With inputs from agencies)

The ED has recovered significant assets from high-profile fugitives, including Rs 14,131.6 crore from Vijay Mallya returned to public sector banks, Rs 1,052.58 crore from Nirav Modi given back to banks, and Rs 2,565.90 crore from Mehul Choksi, with plans to auction these assets.



New Delhi, India Indian finance minister Sitharaman said that the total assets worth Rs 22,280 crore have been recovered and returned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to public and private banks and deceived investors. This shows the determination of the government in tackling financial crimes and misdirected money. In Lok Sabha's discussion over Supplementary Demands for Grants, Sitharaman called up the ED's work opening, blaming no one and saying, “We haven’t spared anyone, even those who fled the country. The ED has worked to ensure that money rightfully belonging to banks and investors is recovered and returned.” Major asset recoveries by the ED Among the high-profile cases, the ED has seized assets worth: >Rs 14,131.6 crore from the fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya, which has been returned to the public sector banks. >Rs 1,052.58 crore from Nirav Modi, which was given to public and private banks. >Rs. 2,565.90 crore from Mehul Choksi, plans to auction these assets. >In addition, assets of Rs 17.47 crore recovered from the NSEL scam have been returned to defrauded investors. Sitharaman, giving the last word on the government's position, said, “We are after them. We will ensure that stolen assets are recovered and returned to their rightful owners, including banks and investors.” Impact of the black money act The Black Money Act passed in 2015 proved very effective in discovering undisclosed wealth. Sitharaman stressed a phenomenal increase in voluntary declaration of foreign assets by taxpayers from 60,467 in 2021-22 to more than 2 lakh in 2024-25. Under this act: >Demands worth Rs 17,520 crore have been raised in 697 cases. >163 prosecutions have been initiated against offenders. Furthermore, the act has led to the detection of undisclosed income of Rs 33,393 crore across 582 cases. High-profile investigations underway The government looks ahead to such cases pertaining to global leaks such as the Panama Papers, Pandora Papers, HSBC, and ICIJ leaks. In order to fast-track these investigations, the MAG, or multi-agency group, has the government looking forward to cases related to global leaks such as the Panama Papers, Pandora Papers, HSBC, and ICIJ leaks. To fast-track these investigations, the MAG, or Multi-Agency Group, has been set up to ensure coordinated action by various enforcement bodies. Until today, 120 cases related to foreign assets remain under active scrutiny. More than Rs 22,000 crore of recovery registers on behalf of ED, which is a great consolation and a significant realization of the efficiency with which this agency has been tackling economic offences and returning wealth to the Indian economy. (With inputs from agencies)

Sitharaman lauds ED’s efforts in recovering assets from Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi

Sydney, Australia
When you make a wish upon a star, it’s easy to imagine that the light you’re seeing may be ancient, perhaps from a star that has already burned out. 
However, as per Science Alert, this idea is more myth than reality. Laura Nicole Driessen, a postdoctoral researcher in radio astronomy at the University of Sydney, explains that the stars we see in the night sky are likely still alive and shining brightly.
<h2>Stars are closer than you think</h2>
A common misconception is that the stars we wish upon are "millions of light years away." As Driessen explains, most of the stars we can see are actually much closer.
All visible stars are within our galaxy, the Milky Way, which is about 100,000 light-years across. The furthest stars visible to the naked eye are only about 74,000 light years away, as per Science Alert reports—far less than the "millions of light years" often cited.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/jupiters-most-volcanic-moon-io-doesnt-have-an-ocean-of-magma-beneath-it-study-784691">Jupiter's most volcanic moon Io doesn't have an ocean of magma beneath it: Study</a>
<h2>Stars live longer than you expect</h2>
Driessen points out that many visible stars, including those in the Yale Bright Star Catalogue, can live for billions of years. While some massive stars have shorter lifespans, lasting only a few hundred thousand years, many stars visible to us are "main sequence" stars, which live for billions of years. Even giant stars can last long enough for your wish to travel to them, says Driessen, making the likelihood of wishing on a dead star quite low.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/saturns-rings-may-have-existed-since-the-solar-system-was-created-study-784694">Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study</a>
If you’re still concerned about wishing upon a star that might no longer exist, Driessen suggests Alpha Centauri as a safe bet. Located just four light years away, Alpha Centauri is the closest star system to Earth. With three stars in the system, there’s no shortage of options for your wish to reach a star that’s still shining, and it will remain stable for a long time, as Science Alert notes.
So next time you make a wish, rest assured that the star you're wishing on is likely still very much alive.
(With inputs from agencies)

A common misconception is that the stars we wish upon are "millions of light years away." As Driessen explains, most of the stars we can see are actually much closer.



Sydney, Australia When you make a wish upon a star, it’s easy to imagine that the light you’re seeing may be ancient, perhaps from a star that has already burned out. However, as per Science Alert, this idea is more myth than reality. Laura Nicole Driessen, a postdoctoral researcher in radio astronomy at the University of Sydney, explains that the stars we see in the night sky are likely still alive and shining brightly. Stars are closer than you think A common misconception is that the stars we wish upon are "millions of light years away." As Driessen explains, most of the stars we can see are actually much closer. All visible stars are within our galaxy, the Milky Way, which is about 100,000 light-years across. The furthest stars visible to the naked eye are only about 74,000 light years away, as per Science Alert reports—far less than the "millions of light years" often cited. Also read | Jupiter's most volcanic moon Io doesn't have an ocean of magma beneath it: Study Stars live longer than you expect Driessen points out that many visible stars, including those in the Yale Bright Star Catalogue, can live for billions of years. While some massive stars have shorter lifespans, lasting only a few hundred thousand years, many stars visible to us are "main sequence" stars, which live for billions of years. Even giant stars can last long enough for your wish to travel to them, says Driessen, making the likelihood of wishing on a dead star quite low. Also read | Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study If you’re still concerned about wishing upon a star that might no longer exist, Driessen suggests Alpha Centauri as a safe bet. Located just four light years away, Alpha Centauri is the closest star system to Earth. With three stars in the system, there’s no shortage of options for your wish to reach a star that’s still shining, and it will remain stable for a long time, as Science Alert notes. So next time you make a wish, rest assured that the star you're wishing on is likely still very much alive. (With inputs from agencies)

Experts reveal the truth about wishing on a star

Port Vila, Vanuatu 
Rescue teams dug for survivors trapped in crumpled buildings in the Pacific nation of Vanuatu on Wednesday after a powerful earthquake killed at least nine people, burying some in rubble and landslides.
People called out from beneath the remains of a flattened three-storey shop in the capital Port Vila, where scores of rescuers worked through the night to find them, resident Michael Thompson told AFP by satellite phone. 
"We got three people out that were trapped. Unfortunately, one of them did not make it," he said.
About 80 people including police, medics, trained rescuers and volunteers used excavators, jackhammers, grinders and concrete saws, "just everything we can get our hands on".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vanuatu-earthquake-embassies-of-us-uk-are-among-damaged-buildings-784720">Vanuatu earthquake: Embassies of US, UK among damaged buildings</a>
When rescuers on the site went quiet, they could hear three people within signalling they were alive on Wednesday, Thompson said.
"There's tonnes and tonnes of rubble on top of them. And two rather significant concrete beams that have pancaked down," he said. "Obviously they are lucky to be in a bit of a void."
AFP photos showed rescuers using heavy machinery to claw away rubble from the squashed concrete remains of a building, dust clouding the air.
The 7.3-magnitude quake struck off Vanuatu's main island at 12:47 pm local time (0147 GMT) on Tuesday.
<h2>State of emergency </h2>
It flattened large buildings, cracked walls, shattered windows and set off landslides in the low-lying archipelago of 320,000 people, which lies in the quake-prone Pacific Rim of Fire.
A string of aftershocks has since shaken the Pacific island nation.
Vanuatu declared a seven-day state of emergency "due to the severe impacts", along with a curfew from 6 pm-6 am.
Australia and New Zealand flew in medical and search-and-rescue personnel on military transport aircraft -- including a 64-person Australian team with two search dogs.
Nine people have been confirmed dead by Port Vila's hospital and that number is likely to rise, said an update by Vanuatu's disaster management office. 
The office had earlier said at least 14 people were killed. A government spokesperson was unable to immediately explain the change.
Two of the dead were Chinese citizens, the country's ambassador to Vanuatu told Chinese television.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sara-sharif-murder-sadist-father-and-stepmother-imprisoned-for-life-for-brutally-killing-her-784733">Sara Sharif murder: 'Sadist' father and stepmother imprisoned for life for brutally killing her</a>
The quake caused "major structural damage" in more than 10 buildings, including the main hospital, while also hitting three bridges and power lines, the disaster office's report said.
<h2>Water reserves destroyed </h2>
Two major water reserves supplying Port Vila had been "totally destroyed".
Mobile communications were "functional with intermittent disruptions", it said.
Port Vila's main wharf was closed "due to a major landslide".
The airport was "not operational" but could handle incoming humanitarian aid, the report said.
French engineers set up satellite communications at the airport and declared the runway operational, said the French ambassador Jean-Baptiste Jeangene Vilmer.
The ground floor of a four-storey concrete block in Port Vila -- used by the US, French, British, Australian and New Zealand diplomatic missions -- collapsed, AFP photos showed. 
US, French and Australian staff members who were inside are safe, the three countries have said.
Thompson, who runs a zipline adventure business in Vanuatu, said he had seen at least three bodies in the city.
'We could hear screams', he drove near the airport past a toppled four-storey block shortly after the quake. Its ground floor had collapsed under the upper storeys.
"When we slowed down with the windows down, we could hear screams coming from inside," he said. 
The quake crushed four large buildings in Port Vila and triggered landslides including one that covered a bus, Thompson said.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has estimated 116,000 people could be affected by the worst impacts of the quake.
"People are still hanging out in parks and some areas because they are afraid to go back home for fear of the aftershocks and more earthquakes," said Rebecca Olul, a local official with the UN children's charity UNICEF.
Concerns were mounting over access to fresh water and the challenge now would be ensuring people are safe while finding those who are missing, she told AFP.
Vanuatu is ranked as one of the countries most susceptible to natural disasters such as earthquakes, storm damage, flooding and tsunamis, according to the annual World Risk Report.
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 quake caused "major structural damage" in more than 10 buildings, including the main hospital, while also hitting three bridges and power lines.



Port Vila, Vanuatu Rescue teams dug for survivors trapped in crumpled buildings in the Pacific nation of Vanuatu on Wednesday after a powerful earthquake killed at least nine people, burying some in rubble and landslides. People called out from beneath the remains of a flattened three-storey shop in the capital Port Vila, where scores of rescuers worked through the night to find them, resident Michael Thompson told AFP by satellite phone. "We got three people out that were trapped. Unfortunately, one of them did not make it," he said. About 80 people including police, medics, trained rescuers and volunteers used excavators, jackhammers, grinders and concrete saws, "just everything we can get our hands on". Also read | Vanuatu earthquake: Embassies of US, UK among damaged buildings When rescuers on the site went quiet, they could hear three people within signalling they were alive on Wednesday, Thompson said. "There's tonnes and tonnes of rubble on top of them. And two rather significant concrete beams that have pancaked down," he said. "Obviously they are lucky to be in a bit of a void." AFP photos showed rescuers using heavy machinery to claw away rubble from the squashed concrete remains of a building, dust clouding the air. The 7.3-magnitude quake struck off Vanuatu's main island at 12:47 pm local time (0147 GMT) on Tuesday. State of emergency It flattened large buildings, cracked walls, shattered windows and set off landslides in the low-lying archipelago of 320,000 people, which lies in the quake-prone Pacific Rim of Fire. A string of aftershocks has since shaken the Pacific island nation. Vanuatu declared a seven-day state of emergency "due to the severe impacts", along with a curfew from 6 pm-6 am. Australia and New Zealand flew in medical and search-and-rescue personnel on military transport aircraft -- including a 64-person Australian team with two search dogs. Nine people have been confirmed dead by Port Vila's hospital and that number is likely to rise, said an update by Vanuatu's disaster management office. The office had earlier said at least 14 people were killed. A government spokesperson was unable to immediately explain the change. Two of the dead were Chinese citizens, the country's ambassador to Vanuatu told Chinese television. Also read | Sara Sharif murder: 'Sadist' father and stepmother imprisoned for life for brutally killing her The quake caused "major structural damage" in more than 10 buildings, including the main hospital, while also hitting three bridges and power lines, the disaster office's report said. Water reserves destroyed Two major water reserves supplying Port Vila had been "totally destroyed". Mobile communications were "functional with intermittent disruptions", it said. Port Vila's main wharf was closed "due to a major landslide". The airport was "not operational" but could handle incoming humanitarian aid, the report said. French engineers set up satellite communications at the airport and declared the runway operational, said the French ambassador Jean-Baptiste Jeangene Vilmer. The ground floor of a four-storey concrete block in Port Vila -- used by the US, French, British, Australian and New Zealand diplomatic missions -- collapsed, AFP photos showed. US, French and Australian staff members who were inside are safe, the three countries have said. Thompson, who runs a zipline adventure business in Vanuatu, said he had seen at least three bodies in the city. 'We could hear screams', he drove near the airport past a toppled four-storey block shortly after the quake. Its ground floor had collapsed under the upper storeys. "When we slowed down with the windows down, we could hear screams coming from inside," he said. The quake crushed four large buildings in Port Vila and triggered landslides including one that covered a bus, Thompson said. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has estimated 116,000 people could be affected by the worst impacts of the quake. "People are still hanging out in parks and some areas because they are afraid to go back home for fear of the aftershocks and more earthquakes," said Rebecca Olul, a local official with the UN children's charity UNICEF. Concerns were mounting over access to fresh water and the challenge now would be ensuring people are safe while finding those who are missing, she told AFP. Vanuatu is ranked as one of the countries most susceptible to natural disasters such as earthquakes, storm damage, flooding and tsunamis, according to the annual World Risk Report. 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.

Rescue efforts intensify as Vanuatu battles aftermath of deadly earthquake

New Delhi
The global premiere of All I Want for Christmas, a poignant travel documentary produced by Travelxp, was hosted at the Embassy of Finland in New Delhi. The event was organised in collaboration with the embassies of Finland, Ukraine, Norway, SIFFCY and the Smile Foundation. 
The documentary captured the magic of Christmas while delivering a powerful message of hope and resilience. 
Directed by national award-winning filmmaker Kamakhya Narayan Singh, the 42-minute documentary tells the story of Anastasia, a young Ukrainian refugee, and her mother as they navigate the challenges of displacement. 
Seeking to bring joy back into their lives, Anastasia’s mother plans a trip to Finland’s Lapland—a winter wonderland where dreams of meeting Santa come true. From dog sledding through pristine landscapes to swimming in the icy waters of Kemi, the journey becomes more than just a holiday; it becomes a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
Dr. Oleksandr Polishchuk, Ambassador of Ukraine to India, reflected on the emotional weight of the film, stating: “We are deeply grateful to the filmmakers, Travelxp, in bringing this powerful story to life. We also thank our partners—Finland and Norway—for their unwavering support and dedication. The film reminds us of the profound impact of dispute, especially on children, who should never be deprived of peace, safety, and a loving home. Ukraine remains committed to the Bring Kids Back UA initiative which gives back their right to a future filled with hope and dignity, like the story presented by Anastasia, Ukrainian children deserve to celebrate Christmas with their families in a peaceful Ukraine, where joy and warmth replace fear and loss.”
Adding to this, Mr. Kimmo Lähdevirta, Ambassador of Finland to India, remarked, “The documentary All I Want for Christmas highlights not just the spirit of Christmas but also the resilience, hopes, and dreams of refugees from Ukraine. The documentary reflects our shared commitment to solidarity, compassion, and the belief in a brighter future for everyone.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-laapataa-ladies-out-of-oscars-race-netizens-upset-with-film-federation-of-india-784834">Laapataa Ladies out of Oscars race; netizens upset with Film Federation</a>
Nisha Chothani, the producer of the show and co-founder of Travelxp, shared her vision for the documentary, saying, “All I Want for Christmas represents the evolution of travel storytelling at Travelxp. While showcasing destinations remains central to our work, we’ve embraced the power of human stories to create deeper connections.”
All I Want for Christmas premiered globally and is now available to watch on Travelxp’s digital platform as well. It offers a heartwarming story of courage, love, and the universal desire for a brighter tomorrow.

All I Want For Christmas: The story is about Anastasia, a young Ukrainian refugee, and her mother as they navigate the challenges of displacement. The film is directed by the national award-winning filmmaker Kamakhya Narayan.  



New Delhi The global premiere of All I Want for Christmas, a poignant travel documentary produced by Travelxp, was hosted at the Embassy of Finland in New Delhi. The event was organised in collaboration with the embassies of Finland, Ukraine, Norway, SIFFCY and the Smile Foundation. The documentary captured the magic of Christmas while delivering a powerful message of hope and resilience. Directed by national award-winning filmmaker Kamakhya Narayan Singh, the 42-minute documentary tells the story of Anastasia, a young Ukrainian refugee, and her mother as they navigate the challenges of displacement. Seeking to bring joy back into their lives, Anastasia’s mother plans a trip to Finland’s Lapland—a winter wonderland where dreams of meeting Santa come true. From dog sledding through pristine landscapes to swimming in the icy waters of Kemi, the journey becomes more than just a holiday; it becomes a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Dr. Oleksandr Polishchuk, Ambassador of Ukraine to India, reflected on the emotional weight of the film, stating: “We are deeply grateful to the filmmakers, Travelxp, in bringing this powerful story to life. We also thank our partners—Finland and Norway—for their unwavering support and dedication. The film reminds us of the profound impact of dispute, especially on children, who should never be deprived of peace, safety, and a loving home. Ukraine remains committed to the Bring Kids Back UA initiative which gives back their right to a future filled with hope and dignity, like the story presented by Anastasia, Ukrainian children deserve to celebrate Christmas with their families in a peaceful Ukraine, where joy and warmth replace fear and loss.” Adding to this, Mr. Kimmo Lähdevirta, Ambassador of Finland to India, remarked, “The documentary All I Want for Christmas highlights not just the spirit of Christmas but also the resilience, hopes, and dreams of refugees from Ukraine. The documentary reflects our shared commitment to solidarity, compassion, and the belief in a brighter future for everyone. Also read: Laapataa Ladies out of Oscars race; netizens upset with Film Federation Nisha Chothani, the producer of the show and co-founder of Travelxp, shared her vision for the documentary, saying, “All I Want for Christmas represents the evolution of travel storytelling at Travelxp. While showcasing destinations remains central to our work, we’ve embraced the power of human stories to create deeper connections.” All I Want for Christmas premiered globally and is now available to watch on Travelxp’s digital platform as well. It offers a heartwarming story of courage, love, and the universal desire for a brighter tomorrow.

Ukrainian mom-daughter documentary All I Want for Christmas premieres in Delhi

Brisbane, Australia
India’s legendary all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin called time on his illustrious career on Wednesday (Dec 18) as he took the cricketing fraternity by surprise. Ashwin, having represented India in 106 Test matches announced his retirement after the Gabba Test match between India and Australia ended in a draw. After the match skipper, Rohit Sharma opened on the insights into Ashwin’s retirement plans saying he came to know about the decision after landing in Perth.
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????? ??? ?????? ?
A name synonymous with mastery, wizardry, brilliance, and innovation ??
The ace spinner and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s invaluable all-rounder announces his retirement from international cricket.
Congratulations on a legendary career, <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/swSwcP3QXA">pic.twitter.com/swSwcP3QXA</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1869258427987562621?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Rohit shares insights on Ashwin</h2>
"Heard about R Ashwin’s retirement when I came to Perth. He understands what the team is thinking, combinations what the team is thinking. I convinced him to stay for the pink-ball Test," said Rohit at the post-match press conference.
The 2011 World Cup winner retired with a tally of 537 Test wickets in 106 matches while also scoring 3503 runs. He scored six hundreds in the format and was India’s most reliable all-rounder for over a decade. In the ODI format, Ashwin represented India in 116 matches and scalped 156 wickets while in the T20Is he has 72 wickets in 65 matches.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/mitchell-santner-takes-over-as-new-white-ball-captain-of-new-zealand-784862">Mitchell Santner takes over as new white-ball captain of New Zealand</a>
He goes down as one of the legends of Indian cricket and at the time of retirement is the second most successful Test bowler for the nation. Only Anil Kumble with 619 scalped more wickets than Ashwin in the red-ball format. Overall, he is the seventh most successful bowler in Test format, underlining his name as one of the best in the world.
As things stand, Ashwin will return to India on Thursday (Dec 19), leaving big shoes to fill in the side. His presence in the Indian team during the home series will be felt as the majority of his success came on home turf. He scalped 383 wickets on home turf making him one of the successful bowlers in the sub-continent conditions.

Ravichandran Ashwin, having represented India in 106 Test matches announced his retirement after the Gabba Test match between India and Australia ended in a draw. After the match skipper, Rohit Sharma opened on the insights into Ashwin’s retirement plans saying he came to know about the decision after landing in Perth.



Brisbane, Australia India’s legendary all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin called time on his illustrious career on Wednesday (Dec 18) as he took the cricketing fraternity by surprise. Ashwin, having represented India in 106 Test matches announced his retirement after the Gabba Test match between India and Australia ended in a draw. After the match skipper, Rohit Sharma opened on the insights into Ashwin’s retirement plans saying he came to know about the decision after landing in Perth. ????? ??? ?????? ? A name synonymous with mastery, wizardry, brilliance, and innovation ?? The ace spinner and #TeamIndia's invaluable all-rounder announces his retirement from international cricket. Congratulations on a legendary career, @ashwinravi99 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/swSwcP3QXA — BCCI (@BCCI) December 18, 2024 × Rohit shares insights on Ashwin "Heard about R Ashwin’s retirement when I came to Perth. He understands what the team is thinking, combinations what the team is thinking. I convinced him to stay for the pink-ball Test," said Rohit at the post-match press conference. The 2011 World Cup winner retired with a tally of 537 Test wickets in 106 matches while also scoring 3503 runs. He scored six hundreds in the format and was India’s most reliable all-rounder for over a decade. In the ODI format, Ashwin represented India in 116 matches and scalped 156 wickets while in the T20Is he has 72 wickets in 65 matches. ALSO READ | Mitchell Santner takes over as new white-ball captain of New Zealand He goes down as one of the legends of Indian cricket and at the time of retirement is the second most successful Test bowler for the nation. Only Anil Kumble with 619 scalped more wickets than Ashwin in the red-ball format. Overall, he is the seventh most successful bowler in Test format, underlining his name as one of the best in the world. As things stand, Ashwin will return to India on Thursday (Dec 19), leaving big shoes to fill in the side. His presence in the Indian team during the home series will be felt as the majority of his success came on home turf. He scalped 383 wickets on home turf making him one of the successful bowlers in the sub-continent conditions.

Rohit Sharma shares insights on R Ashwin's retirement plans, says 'I convinced him to stay for pink-ball Test'

Brisbane, Australia
The Gabba Test match between India and Australia ended in a draw after rain played spoilsport on Day 5 of the contest. With Australia declaring at 89/7 in their second innings and setting a 275-run target for India, players from both camps decided to shake hands with no play taking place in the overcast conditions of Gabba post-tea session. As a result, the series stays at 1-1 with the next Test match to take place in Melbourne starting on Dec 26.
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The play has been abandoned in Brisbane and the match is drawn.
After the Third Test, the series is evenly poised at 1-1
Scorecard - <a href="https://t.co/dcdiT9NAoa">https://t.co/dcdiT9NAoa</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/GvfzHXcvoG">pic.twitter.com/GvfzHXcvoG</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1869255540377043290?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Gabba Test ends in a draw</h2>
With India needing 275 runs to win the Gabba Test, the rain was once again the highlight reel of Day 5 before the stumps were called. Interestingly, India started the day with the bat as Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep added eight more runs before the latter was dismissed by Travis Head.
With a lead of 185 runs, Australia came out to bat as they looked to make a good start to their innings. However, Bumrah was on the money for the visitors and scalped the wickets of Usman Khawaja (8) and Marnus Labuschagne (1) which saw him break Kapil’s record for most wickets.
Kapil had 51 wickets in 11 matches while Anil Kumble bagged 49 wickets in 10 matches during their tours Down Under.
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The early wickets saw Australia suffer a batting meltdown as they lost seven wickets. Before declaring on 89, Aussie batters were all over the place, as Bumrah ended with figures of 18/3, while Akash Deep (28/2) and Mohammed Siraj (36/2) were also amongst the wicket-takers.
Pat Cummins was the top scorer with 22 off 10 while Alex Carey (20) and Travis Head (17) were the only other batters to get into double figures.
<h2>Ashwin calls time on career</h2>
After the match, legendary all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin called time on his illustrious career and bowed out on a high. The 2011 World Cup winner retired with a tally of 537 Test wickets in 106 matches while also scoring 3503 runs. He scored six hundreds in the format and was India’s most reliable all-rounder for over a decade.

With Australia declaring at 89/7 in their second innings and setting a 275-run target for India, players from both camps decided to shake hands with no play taking place in the overcast conditions of Gabba post-tea session. As a result, the series stays at 1-1 with the next Test match to take place in Melbourne starting on Dec 26.



Brisbane, Australia The Gabba Test match between India and Australia ended in a draw after rain played spoilsport on Day 5 of the contest. With Australia declaring at 89/7 in their second innings and setting a 275-run target for India, players from both camps decided to shake hands with no play taking place in the overcast conditions of Gabba post-tea session. As a result, the series stays at 1-1 with the next Test match to take place in Melbourne starting on Dec 26. The play has been abandoned in Brisbane and the match is drawn. After the Third Test, the series is evenly poised at 1-1 Scorecard - https://t.co/dcdiT9NAoa#TeamIndia | #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/GvfzHXcvoG — BCCI (@BCCI) December 18, 2024 × Gabba Test ends in a draw With India needing 275 runs to win the Gabba Test, the rain was once again the highlight reel of Day 5 before the stumps were called. Interestingly, India started the day with the bat as Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep added eight more runs before the latter was dismissed by Travis Head. With a lead of 185 runs, Australia came out to bat as they looked to make a good start to their innings. However, Bumrah was on the money for the visitors and scalped the wickets of Usman Khawaja (8) and Marnus Labuschagne (1) which saw him break Kapil’s record for most wickets. Kapil had 51 wickets in 11 matches while Anil Kumble bagged 49 wickets in 10 matches during their tours Down Under. ALSO READ | Mitchell Santner takes over as new white-ball captain of New Zealand The early wickets saw Australia suffer a batting meltdown as they lost seven wickets. Before declaring on 89, Aussie batters were all over the place, as Bumrah ended with figures of 18/3, while Akash Deep (28/2) and Mohammed Siraj (36/2) were also amongst the wicket-takers. Pat Cummins was the top scorer with 22 off 10 while Alex Carey (20) and Travis Head (17) were the only other batters to get into double figures. Ashwin calls time on career After the match, legendary all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin called time on his illustrious career and bowed out on a high. The 2011 World Cup winner retired with a tally of 537 Test wickets in 106 matches while also scoring 3503 runs. He scored six hundreds in the format and was India’s most reliable all-rounder for over a decade.

BGT 2024/25: Gabba Test ends in a draw after rain plays spoilsport on Day 5

New Delhi, India
On Wednesday (Dec 18), R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the India versus Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. The 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) edition has already seen lots of drama and action and Ashwin's retirement comes as a huge surprise.
"This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I've created a lot of memories alongside Rohit and several of my teammates," Ashwin said at the post-match press conference.
Ashwin has been a legend of the game. In his 14-year-long international career, the 38-year-old wily spinner ends with 537, 156 and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He was part of India's victorious campaigns in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. In the red-ball format, the veteran steps aside as the seventh-highest wicket-taker overall and second-most among Indians. Only former Indian captain Anil Kumble is ahead of him, with 619 Test scalps. In addition, Ashwin signs off as India's second-highest wicket-taker in internationals with 765 wickets, once again only behind Kumble's tally (953).
Speculations of Ashwin's retirement spread like wildfire just ahead of the final result at The Gabba, Brisbane. He was seen having a lengthy chat with Virat Kohli in the dressing room when India's chase of 275 was halted due to bad light. The two looked emotional as many speculated a retirement on the cards for the spinner. With rain coming back and conditions not looking promising for any further play, both sides settled for a draw before Ashwin joined Rohit in the post-match presser to announce the big news.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-gabba-test-ends-in-a-draw-after-rain-plays-spoilsport-on-day-5-784879">BGT 2024/25: Gabba Test ends in a draw after rain plays spoilsport on Day 5</a>
Apart from his bowling, Ashwin also made a mark as a batter, especially in the longer format. He ended with 3,503 runs and six hundreds at an average of 25.75. He was instrumental in India's dominant run in home Tests, where they were unbeaten for over a decade since 2013. He finished his Test career with as many as 11 Player-of-the-Series awards; most by any player.
Regarding the India-Australia Gabba Test, Rohit-led India opted to bowl first but Australia rode on centuries from Travis Head (152) and Steve Smith (101) to post 445. In reply, India struggled but managed to avoid the follow-on, to end up with 260 on the final day. In reply, Australia declared at 89-7, setting a 275-run target in 54 overs before the bad light and weather had the final say. 
Ashwin only played the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT before hanging his boots. The five-match Test series is currently poised at 1-1.

R Ashwin announced his international retirement after India vs Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18). 



New Delhi, India On Wednesday (Dec 18), R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the India versus Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. The 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) edition has already seen lots of drama and action and Ashwin's retirement comes as a huge surprise. "This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I've created a lot of memories alongside Rohit and several of my teammates," Ashwin said at the post-match press conference. Ashwin has been a legend of the game. In his 14-year-long international career, the 38-year-old wily spinner ends with 537, 156 and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He was part of India's victorious campaigns in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. In the red-ball format, the veteran steps aside as the seventh-highest wicket-taker overall and second-most among Indians. Only former Indian captain Anil Kumble is ahead of him, with 619 Test scalps. In addition, Ashwin signs off as India's second-highest wicket-taker in internationals with 765 wickets, once again only behind Kumble's tally (953). Speculations of Ashwin's retirement spread like wildfire just ahead of the final result at The Gabba, Brisbane. He was seen having a lengthy chat with Virat Kohli in the dressing room when India's chase of 275 was halted due to bad light. The two looked emotional as many speculated a retirement on the cards for the spinner. With rain coming back and conditions not looking promising for any further play, both sides settled for a draw before Ashwin joined Rohit in the post-match presser to announce the big news. Also read: BGT 2024/25: Gabba Test ends in a draw after rain plays spoilsport on Day 5 Apart from his bowling, Ashwin also made a mark as a batter, especially in the longer format. He ended with 3,503 runs and six hundreds at an average of 25.75. He was instrumental in India's dominant run in home Tests, where they were unbeaten for over a decade since 2013. He finished his Test career with as many as 11 Player-of-the-Series awards; most by any player. Regarding the India-Australia Gabba Test, Rohit-led India opted to bowl first but Australia rode on centuries from Travis Head (152) and Steve Smith (101) to post 445. In reply, India struggled but managed to avoid the follow-on, to end up with 260 on the final day. In reply, Australia declared at 89-7, setting a 275-run target in 54 overs before the bad light and weather had the final say. Ashwin only played the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT before hanging his boots. The five-match Test series is currently poised at 1-1.

Ravichandran Ashwin announces international retirement after India vs Australia Gabba Test ends in draw

New Delhi, India
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has initiated police action against two schools in Delhi for allegedly submitting fake land certificates as part of their application for affiliation. 
The schools, Manava Bhawna Public School in Burari and Sat Saheb Public School in Uttam Nagar are now under investigation for forging official documents to secure their affiliation with the Board.
<h2>Forgery discovered during document scrutiny</h2>
CBSE, which grants affiliation to schools to conduct public exams, follows a strict verification process for essential documents, including land certificates. In this case, the documents submitted by the two schools were sent for verification by the respective issuing authorities. Upon verification, it was found that the land certificates were fake and had not been issued by legitimate authorities.
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<h2>Action taken by CBSE</h2>
The CBSE said in the press statement, “It was found that the land certificates have not been issued by the concerned authorities and the schools have submitted fake/forged land certificates with the Board.”
Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) Secretary Himanshu Gupta said, “While considering the applications, the board conducts a very strict scrutiny of the essential documents submitted by the schools and, in order to establish the genuineness, the documents are also verified from the issuing authority." 
As a result of these findings, CBSE has filed complaints with the Preet Vihar Police Station, urging legal action against the schools for submitting forged documents.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cold-wave-grips-telangana-mercury-dips-to-single-digit-in-several-regions-784683">Cold wave grips Telangana, mercury dips to single digit in several regions</a>
<h2>CBSE reaffirms commitment to strict affiliation standards</h2>
CBSE stressed its commitment to maintaining high standards in the affiliation process, ensuring that only schools that meet all necessary requirements are approved. The Board had also sent show-cause notices to more than 30 schools for not following its rules.
(With inputs from agencies)

The schools, Manava Bhawna Public School in Burari and Sat Saheb Public School in Uttam Nagar are now under investigation for forging official documents to secure their affiliation with the Board.



New Delhi, India The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has initiated police action against two schools in Delhi for allegedly submitting fake land certificates as part of their application for affiliation. The schools, Manava Bhawna Public School in Burari and Sat Saheb Public School in Uttam Nagar are now under investigation for forging official documents to secure their affiliation with the Board. Forgery discovered during document scrutiny CBSE, which grants affiliation to schools to conduct public exams, follows a strict verification process for essential documents, including land certificates. In this case, the documents submitted by the two schools were sent for verification by the respective issuing authorities. Upon verification, it was found that the land certificates were fake and had not been issued by legitimate authorities. Also Read | Yunus' key adviser shares Bangladesh map including India's eastern territories; later deletes post Action taken by CBSE The CBSE said in the press statement, “It was found that the land certificates have not been issued by the concerned authorities and the schools have submitted fake/forged land certificates with the Board.” Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) Secretary Himanshu Gupta said, “While considering the applications, the board conducts a very strict scrutiny of the essential documents submitted by the schools and, in order to establish the genuineness, the documents are also verified from the issuing authority." As a result of these findings, CBSE has filed complaints with the Preet Vihar Police Station, urging legal action against the schools for submitting forged documents. Also Read | Cold wave grips Telangana, mercury dips to single digit in several regions CBSE reaffirms commitment to strict affiliation standards CBSE stressed its commitment to maintaining high standards in the affiliation process, ensuring that only schools that meet all necessary requirements are approved. The Board had also sent show-cause notices to more than 30 schools for not following its rules. (With inputs from agencies)

CBSE takes legal step against two Delhi schools over fake affiliation documents

Los Angeles, United States
Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks silenced the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second half to win the second edition of the NBA Cup with a 97-81 victory in Las Vegas on Tuesday. Two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Antetokounmpo delivered a triple-double of 26 points, 19 rebounds and 10 assists along with two steals and three blocked shots for the Bucks, who drilled 17 three-pointers to complete an unbeaten run and follow in the footsteps of the Los Angeles Lakers as in-season tournament champions.
Damian Lillard scored 23 points for the Bucks, who held the potentially explosive Thunder offense to 31 points in the second half. "That's who we are," Antetokounmpo said of the Bucks' second-half dominance, which saw them push a one-point lead at halftime to as many as 20.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 21 points, but he connected on just eight of his 24 shots from the field, two of nine from three-point range. The triumph was a vindication for the Bucks, who were stung by the Indiana Pacers in last year's Cup semi-finals. They were the only team from last season's semis to make it back to the final four in Vegas, beating the Orlando Magic in the quarter-finals and dispatching Atlanta in the semis.
Their Cup success has been part of a massive turnaround after a dismal 2-8 start to the season. They have now won 13 of their last 16 games, and Antetokounmpo, who led the Bucks to the 2021 NBA title, indicated he considered it only a stepping stone.
"It's great for our team," said Antetokounmpo, who was named MVP of the tournament. "The last 15 games we've played, we've competed. We've played team basketball. "I'm so proud of this group," he added. "Coming out of halftime we know we have 24 minutes to go, we came out in the third quarter, we set the tone. We played great team basketball."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/copa-italia-teun-koopmeiners-stunner-sends-juventus-into-quarters-784827">Copa Italia: Teun Koopmeiners stunner sends Juventus into quarters</a>
- 'Not done' -
The Bucks held the Thunder to just 14 points in the third quarter -- their lowest points total in a period this season. "Most importantly we are competing defensively," Antetokounmpo said. "That's who we are. That's who we're going to continue to be -- and the job's not done."
Unlike the rest of the Cup matches, the final does not count toward the regular-season record, nor do the players' performances count in their career stats. But the trophy does come with a financial reward with each player on the winning team set to pocket more than $514,971 -- a significant chunk of money for the younger players and lesser lights on the team.
Thunder players will take home $205,988 apiece for the runner-up finish. But they will head back to Oklahoma City disappointed with one of their worst shooting performances of the season. "We didn't shoot it well tonight," Gilgeous-Alexander said. "It's not really an excuse. There was definitely controllables tonight we could have taken care of and we didn't do so, and that's why the score looked the way it does. "We've shot bad and won games before."
The Western Conference leaders -- who went 3-1 in group play before beating Dallas in the quarter-finals and Houston in the semis -- connected on just 33.7 percent of their shots from the field and made just five of 32 -- 15.6 percent -- from three-point range.
They had emerged from a fast-paced first quarter with a 28-27 lead. The nip-and-tuck continued in the second quarter and the tension was evident when Milwaukee's Andre Jackson Jr and Oklahoma City's Isaiah Hartenstein received matching technicals after a heated exchange.
After a first half that featured nine lead changes the Bucks led 51-50, but Milwaukee opened the third with back-to-back three-pointers from Taurean Prince and Lillard and began to roll.
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.

Two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Antetokounmpo delivered a triple-double of 26 points, 19 rebounds and 10 assists along with two steals and three blocked shots for the Bucks, who drilled 17 three-pointers to complete an unbeaten run and follow in the footsteps of the Los Angeles Lakers as in-season tournament champions.



Los Angeles, United States Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks silenced the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second half to win the second edition of the NBA Cup with a 97-81 victory in Las Vegas on Tuesday. Two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Antetokounmpo delivered a triple-double of 26 points, 19 rebounds and 10 assists along with two steals and three blocked shots for the Bucks, who drilled 17 three-pointers to complete an unbeaten run and follow in the footsteps of the Los Angeles Lakers as in-season tournament champions. Damian Lillard scored 23 points for the Bucks, who held the potentially explosive Thunder offense to 31 points in the second half. "That's who we are," Antetokounmpo said of the Bucks' second-half dominance, which saw them push a one-point lead at halftime to as many as 20. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 21 points, but he connected on just eight of his 24 shots from the field, two of nine from three-point range. The triumph was a vindication for the Bucks, who were stung by the Indiana Pacers in last year's Cup semi-finals. They were the only team from last season's semis to make it back to the final four in Vegas, beating the Orlando Magic in the quarter-finals and dispatching Atlanta in the semis. Their Cup success has been part of a massive turnaround after a dismal 2-8 start to the season. They have now won 13 of their last 16 games, and Antetokounmpo, who led the Bucks to the 2021 NBA title, indicated he considered it only a stepping stone. "It's great for our team," said Antetokounmpo, who was named MVP of the tournament. "The last 15 games we've played, we've competed. We've played team basketball. "I'm so proud of this group," he added. "Coming out of halftime we know we have 24 minutes to go, we came out in the third quarter, we set the tone. We played great team basketball." Also read: Copa Italia: Teun Koopmeiners stunner sends Juventus into quarters - 'Not done' - The Bucks held the Thunder to just 14 points in the third quarter -- their lowest points total in a period this season. "Most importantly we are competing defensively," Antetokounmpo said. "That's who we are. That's who we're going to continue to be -- and the job's not done." Unlike the rest of the Cup matches, the final does not count toward the regular-season record, nor do the players' performances count in their career stats. But the trophy does come with a financial reward with each player on the winning team set to pocket more than $514,971 -- a significant chunk of money for the younger players and lesser lights on the team. Thunder players will take home $205,988 apiece for the runner-up finish. But they will head back to Oklahoma City disappointed with one of their worst shooting performances of the season. "We didn't shoot it well tonight," Gilgeous-Alexander said. "It's not really an excuse. There was definitely controllables tonight we could have taken care of and we didn't do so, and that's why the score looked the way it does. "We've shot bad and won games before." The Western Conference leaders -- who went 3-1 in group play before beating Dallas in the quarter-finals and Houston in the semis -- connected on just 33.7 percent of their shots from the field and made just five of 32 -- 15.6 percent -- from three-point range. They had emerged from a fast-paced first quarter with a 28-27 lead. The nip-and-tuck continued in the second quarter and the tension was evident when Milwaukee's Andre Jackson Jr and Oklahoma City's Isaiah Hartenstein received matching technicals after a heated exchange. After a first half that featured nine lead changes the Bucks led 51-50, but Milwaukee opened the third with back-to-back three-pointers from Taurean Prince and Lillard and began to roll. 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.

Giannis Antetokounmpo stars as Milwaukee Bucks beat Oklahoma City Thunder to win NBA Cup

New Delhi, India 
<meta content="uuidl3i9uH2GOPyY" name="uuid"/>
Indian Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, along with 19 other BJP Members of Parliament (MPs), including senior leaders like Giriraj Singh and Jyotiraditya Scindia, were absent during the introduction of the One Nation, One Election Bill in the Lok Sabha. The BJP had issued a three-line whip, requiring all MPs to be present for the session. Their absence has raised concerns, and the party is reportedly planning to issue notices to hold these lawmakers accountable for not following party instructions.
<h2>A bill with political significance</h2>
The One Nation, One Election Bill is a key part of the government's plan to hold elections across India at the same time. Introduced by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, the bill passed its first stage in the Lok Sabha after a 90-minute debate. Despite strong opposition criticism, the bill received 269 votes in favour and 198 against it.
Opposition parties called the bill "dictatorial" and said it threatens India’s federal structure. However, the government argued that the bill would not affect the powers or independence of states. Meghwal reassured the House that the bill follows constitutional principles and does not harm India’s democracy.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/one-nation-one-election-bills-introduced-in-lok-sabha-269-mps-vote-in-favour-198-oppose-784662">One Nation, One Election bills introduced in Lok Sabha; 269 MPs vote in favour, 198 oppose</a>
<h2>Opposition's strong criticism</h2>
The opposition, including Congress leader Manickam Tagore, questioned the bill’s legitimacy, claiming it failed to secure the required two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha. Tagore argued that the government had not garnered the 307 votes needed to push the bill through.
Shashi Tharoor from the Congress party echoed similar concerns, cautioning the government against pushing too hard for the bill’s implementation without adequate support.
The bill is expected to be referred to a joint committee, which will include representatives from all parties based on their strength in the House. This will give the BJP the largest representation on the committee, potentially allowing them to lead deliberations on the bill’s future.
Watch | 
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(With inputs from agencies)

The One Nation, One Election Bill is a key part of the government's plan to hold elections across India at the same time. Introduced by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, the bill passed its first stage in the Lok Sabha after a 90-minute debate.



New Delhi, India Indian Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, along with 19 other BJP Members of Parliament (MPs), including senior leaders like Giriraj Singh and Jyotiraditya Scindia, were absent during the introduction of the One Nation, One Election Bill in the Lok Sabha. The BJP had issued a three-line whip, requiring all MPs to be present for the session. Their absence has raised concerns, and the party is reportedly planning to issue notices to hold these lawmakers accountable for not following party instructions. A bill with political significance The One Nation, One Election Bill is a key part of the government's plan to hold elections across India at the same time. Introduced by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, the bill passed its first stage in the Lok Sabha after a 90-minute debate. Despite strong opposition criticism, the bill received 269 votes in favour and 198 against it. Opposition parties called the bill "dictatorial" and said it threatens India’s federal structure. However, the government argued that the bill would not affect the powers or independence of states. Meghwal reassured the House that the bill follows constitutional principles and does not harm India’s democracy. Also Read: One Nation, One Election bills introduced in Lok Sabha; 269 MPs vote in favour, 198 oppose Opposition's strong criticism The opposition, including Congress leader Manickam Tagore, questioned the bill’s legitimacy, claiming it failed to secure the required two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha. Tagore argued that the government had not garnered the 307 votes needed to push the bill through. Shashi Tharoor from the Congress party echoed similar concerns, cautioning the government against pushing too hard for the bill’s implementation without adequate support. The bill is expected to be referred to a joint committee, which will include representatives from all parties based on their strength in the House. This will give the BJP the largest representation on the committee, potentially allowing them to lead deliberations on the bill’s future. Watch | (With inputs from agencies)

Nitin Gadkari, other BJP leaders face backlash for skipping 'One Nation, One Election' vote

San Francisco
<meta charset="utf-8"/>A San Francisco jury has found tech executive Nima Momeni guilty of murdering Bob Lee, the founder of Cash App, in April 2023. The verdict came late Tuesday (Dec 17), marking a dramatic conclusion to a high-profile case that shocked the tech world.
Momeni, the owner of a tech firm in Emeryville, California, was accused of stabbing Lee three times with a kitchen knife after driving him to a secluded area. Prosecutors argued the attack was premeditated, while Momeni’s defence claimed he acted in self-defence during a scuffle.
<h2 dir="ltr">Cash App founder murder: The night of the incident</h2>
On 4 April 2023, Lee, a former executive at cryptocurrency firm MobileCoin, was killed in the early hours near San Francisco’s Rincon Hill neighbourhood.
Surveillance footage showed Lee and Momeni leaving Lee’s hotel at 2 am local time, getting into Momeni’s BMW Z4, and driving to a dark, isolated area.
According to court documents, the two men exited the car, and Momeni "moved toward" Lee before the BMW sped away from the scene.
Prosecutors said Momeni fatally stabbed Lee, leaving him to die on the street. The case drew attention due to Lee’s prominence in the tech community and the shocking nature of the crime.
<h2 dir="ltr">The alleged motive</h2>
Prosecutors alleged that the murder stemmed from a confrontation over the alleged sexual assault of Momeni's sister by someone acquainted with Lee.
Momeni's defence attorney, Paula Canny, contended that the stabbing resulted from a mix of self-defence and accidental harm.
"There was no premeditation," Canny said during a court hearing in May 2023.
<h2 dir="ltr">Momeni’s account of events</h2>
Last month, Momeni testified that Lee had become enraged after a joke escalated tensions between the two.
Momeni recounted teasing Lee about preferring to spend his last night in town with family rather than heading to a strip club.
"He attacked me in anger," Momeni claimed, adding that the scuffle led to Lee’s fatal injuries, though Momeni insisted he did not realise the extent of the harm caused.
Momeni now faces a potential life sentence, with formal sentencing expected in early 2025.
(With inputs from agencies)

Security cameras captured Lee and Momeni leaving Lee's hotel, getting into Momeni's BMW Z4, and driving to a quiet, dark location.



San Francisco A San Francisco jury has found tech executive Nima Momeni guilty of murdering Bob Lee, the founder of Cash App, in April 2023. The verdict came late Tuesday (Dec 17), marking a dramatic conclusion to a high-profile case that shocked the tech world. Momeni, the owner of a tech firm in Emeryville, California, was accused of stabbing Lee three times with a kitchen knife after driving him to a secluded area. Prosecutors argued the attack was premeditated, while Momeni’s defence claimed he acted in self-defence during a scuffle. Cash App founder murder: The night of the incident On 4 April 2023, Lee, a former executive at cryptocurrency firm MobileCoin, was killed in the early hours near San Francisco’s Rincon Hill neighbourhood. Surveillance footage showed Lee and Momeni leaving Lee’s hotel at 2 am local time, getting into Momeni’s BMW Z4, and driving to a dark, isolated area. According to court documents, the two men exited the car, and Momeni "moved toward" Lee before the BMW sped away from the scene. Prosecutors said Momeni fatally stabbed Lee, leaving him to die on the street. The case drew attention due to Lee’s prominence in the tech community and the shocking nature of the crime. The alleged motive Prosecutors alleged that the murder stemmed from a confrontation over the alleged sexual assault of Momeni's sister by someone acquainted with Lee. Momeni's defence attorney, Paula Canny, contended that the stabbing resulted from a mix of self-defence and accidental harm. "There was no premeditation," Canny said during a court hearing in May 2023. Momeni’s account of events Last month, Momeni testified that Lee had become enraged after a joke escalated tensions between the two. Momeni recounted teasing Lee about preferring to spend his last night in town with family rather than heading to a strip club. "He attacked me in anger," Momeni claimed, adding that the scuffle led to Lee’s fatal injuries, though Momeni insisted he did not realise the extent of the harm caused. Momeni now faces a potential life sentence, with formal sentencing expected in early 2025. (With inputs from agencies)

US tech executive Nima Momeni convicted of killing cash app founder Bob Lee

Wellington, New Zealand
Spinner Mitchell Santner has officially been named as the new white-ball skipper of New Zealand after an announcement was made on Wednesday (Dec 18). Santner, who previously served in the standby role, will take over as the full-time skipper during the side’s upcoming home series against Sri Lanka at the end of the year.
Santner’s first big test will be the Champions Trophy 2025 which begins in February.
<h2>Santner takes over as the new white-ball skipper</h2>
"It's obviously a huge honour and a privilege to be asked," Santner said. "When you're a young kid the dream was always to play for New Zealand but to have the opportunity to officially lead my country in two formats is special.
"It's a new challenge and I'm excited to get stuck into the important period of white ball cricket that we have ahead of us."
Kane Williamson stepped down from his captaincy role in June, paving the way for Tim Southee and then Tom Latham to take over as the captains in Test format.
However, with Santner serving on standby role in ODIs and T20Is, he was the leading candidate to take over the side.
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Head coach Gary Speed said New Zealand cricket management wanted to manage the workload of players going forward, which was one of the reasons for Latham to be overlooked for the role.
Latham is currently the captain of the Test side and led the Kiwis to an unprecedented series win against India in November.
New Zealand will be one of the favouites to win the Champions Trophy 2025 as Santner looks to make an instant impact.
The BlackCaps have an impressive record in the ICC tournaments, having won the World Test Championship (WTC) in 2021 while losing the T20 World Cup final the same year.
New Zealand also reached the 2023 ODI World Cup semifinal before losing to India.

Mitchell Santner, who previously served in the stand-by role, will take over as the full-time skipper during the side’s upcoming home series against Sri Lanka at the end of the year. However, Santner’s first big test will be the Champions Trophy 2025 which begins in February



Wellington, New Zealand Spinner Mitchell Santner has officially been named as the new white-ball skipper of New Zealand after an announcement was made on Wednesday (Dec 18). Santner, who previously served in the standby role, will take over as the full-time skipper during the side’s upcoming home series against Sri Lanka at the end of the year. Santner’s first big test will be the Champions Trophy 2025 which begins in February. Santner takes over as the new white-ball skipper "It's obviously a huge honour and a privilege to be asked," Santner said. "When you're a young kid the dream was always to play for New Zealand but to have the opportunity to officially lead my country in two formats is special. "It's a new challenge and I'm excited to get stuck into the important period of white ball cricket that we have ahead of us." Kane Williamson stepped down from his captaincy role in June, paving the way for Tim Southee and then Tom Latham to take over as the captains in Test format. However, with Santner serving on standby role in ODIs and T20Is, he was the leading candidate to take over the side. ALSO READ | Vinicius Jr, Aitana Bonmati named FIFA Best players of the year Head coach Gary Speed said New Zealand cricket management wanted to manage the workload of players going forward, which was one of the reasons for Latham to be overlooked for the role. Latham is currently the captain of the Test side and led the Kiwis to an unprecedented series win against India in November. New Zealand will be one of the favouites to win the Champions Trophy 2025 as Santner looks to make an instant impact. The BlackCaps have an impressive record in the ICC tournaments, having won the World Test Championship (WTC) in 2021 while losing the T20 World Cup final the same year. New Zealand also reached the 2023 ODI World Cup semifinal before losing to India.

Mitchell Santner takes over as new white-ball captain of New Zealand

New Delhi, India 
Luigi Mangione has been charged in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, including first-degree murder and an "act of terrorism." 
President-elect Donald Trump criticised India for charging high import taxes, some as much as 100 per cent. He said he would respond with similar measures and take a tough stance on trade with India, China and Brazil.
Meanwhile, some sad news for Indian cinema: Laapata Ladies failed to make the Oscars shortlist for Best International Feature. Despite high hopes, the Academy revealed 15 contenders, but India’s official entry didn’t make the cut, leaving fans with broken hearts.
Click on the headlines to read more:
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alleged-unitedhealthcare-ceo-killer-luigi-mangione-charged-with-murder-terrorism-for-brian-thompson-murder-784812">Alleged CEO killer Luigi Mangione charged with murder, terrorism for Brian Thompson's murder</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/18/471759-new-wion-2024-12-18t061757542.jpg"/>
US prosecutors on Tuesday (Dec 17) charged Luigi Mangione, with the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, including a second-degree murder charge "as an act of terrorism."  

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/they-tax-us-we-tax-them-trump-issues-fresh-threat-to-india-over-high-tariff-784819">‘They tax us, we tax them,’ Trump issues fresh threat to India over ‘high tariff’</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/11/26/467973-trump-16.png"/>
US President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to follow a tit-for-tat approach regarding India’s ‘high tax’ policy, criticising towering tariffs on imports from America, as high as 100 per cent on some products. Speaking at his Mar-a-Lago resort Monday (Dec 16), Trump told reporters, "If they tax us, we tax them the same amount." 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-congressman-claims-unidentified-aircraft-in-new-jersey-new-york-are-chinese-spy-drones-784814">US congressman claims unidentified aircraft in New Jersey, New York are Chinese 'spy drones'</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/18/471760-new-wion-2024-12-18t065304682.jpg"/>
US House Foreign Affairs Committee chairperson Michael McCaul on Tuesday (Dec 17) alleged that the unidentified drones recently spotted over New Jersey and New York are "spy drones" from China. McCaul's claim comes after the Biden administration downplayed the sightings as largely commercial in nature.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-laapataa-ladies-out-of-oscars-race-netizens-upset-with-film-federation-of-india-784834">Laapataa Ladies out of Oscars race; netizens upset with Film Federation of India</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/09/23/456289-horizons-2024-09-23t144943951.jpg"/>
 Sad news for Indian fans as Laapata Ladies failed to make it to the shortlisted names. In the category for Best International Feature, a total of 15 names was announced and India’s official entry failed to make the cut.
Watch | Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina Accused Of Mass Killings and Crime Against Humanity
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Good morning! Start your day with WIONs daily news brief.



New Delhi, India Luigi Mangione has been charged in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, including first-degree murder and an "act of terrorism." President-elect Donald Trump criticised India for charging high import taxes, some as much as 100 per cent. He said he would respond with similar measures and take a tough stance on trade with India, China and Brazil. Meanwhile, some sad news for Indian cinema: Laapata Ladies failed to make the Oscars shortlist for Best International Feature. Despite high hopes, the Academy revealed 15 contenders, but India’s official entry didn’t make the cut, leaving fans with broken hearts. Click on the headlines to read more: Alleged CEO killer Luigi Mangione charged with murder, terrorism for Brian Thompson's murder US prosecutors on Tuesday (Dec 17) charged Luigi Mangione, with the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, including a second-degree murder charge "as an act of terrorism." ‘They tax us, we tax them,’ Trump issues fresh threat to India over ‘high tariff’ US President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to follow a tit-for-tat approach regarding India’s ‘high tax’ policy, criticising towering tariffs on imports from America, as high as 100 per cent on some products. Speaking at his Mar-a-Lago resort Monday (Dec 16), Trump told reporters, "If they tax us, we tax them the same amount." US congressman claims unidentified aircraft in New Jersey, New York are Chinese 'spy drones' US House Foreign Affairs Committee chairperson Michael McCaul on Tuesday (Dec 17) alleged that the unidentified drones recently spotted over New Jersey and New York are "spy drones" from China. McCaul's claim comes after the Biden administration downplayed the sightings as largely commercial in nature. Laapataa Ladies out of Oscars race; netizens upset with Film Federation of India Sad news for Indian fans as Laapata Ladies failed to make it to the shortlisted names. In the category for Best International Feature, a total of 15 names was announced and India’s official entry failed to make the cut. Watch | Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina Accused Of Mass Killings and Crime Against Humanity

Morning news brief: Luigi Mangione charged in murder of US CEO; Trump slams India's import tariffs, and more

New York, United States
US prosecutors on Tuesday (Dec 17) charged Luigi Mangione in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, including first-degree murder, second-degree murder and "an act of terrorism."  
Thompson was gunned down on a Manhattan street on December 4 in a case that triggered widespread outrage and a nationwide manhunt. Authorities apprehended 26-year-old Mangione last week at a McDonald's in Pennsylvania, where he remains in custody while contesting extradition to New York.  
Also read | <a data-ved="2ahUKEwi7iMq7irCKAxWZTmwGHWf8HekQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/luigi-mangione-a-murder-suspect-too-hot-to-be-guilty-for-gen-zs-784649" jsname="YKoRaf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Luigi Mangione: A murder suspect 'too hot to be guilty' for Gen Z</a>
<h2>Charges and allegations against the 'CEO killer'</h2>
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg announced that Mangione faces one count of first-degree murder, two counts of second-degree murder, "including one count of murder in the second degree as an act of terrorism"—and several weapons charges related to his use of a 3D-printed firearm.  
Bragg explained the terrorism charge, stating, "In its most basic terms, this was a killing that was intended to evoke terror and we've seen that reaction," adding that it "was not an ordinary killing." 
The maximum penalty for the charges is life imprisonment without parole.
Watch | Luigi Mangione: Who Is The Man Accused Of Killing UnitedHealthcare’s CEO?
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According to prosecutors, Mangione used a 3D-printed nine-millimetre "ghost gun" equipped with a suppressor to shoot the UnitedHealthcare CEO.
"We allege he... took out a nine-millimetre 3D-printed ghost gun equipped with a 3D-printed suppressor and shot (Thompson) once in the back and once in the leg," said the Manhattan District Attorney.
Bragg highlighted the growing concern over untraceable ghost guns, noting that "last year, over 80 ghost guns and ghost gun parts were recovered in Manhattan alone."
"Evolving technology will only make this problem worse," he said.
Also read | <a data-ved="2ahUKEwi7iMq7irCKAxWZTmwGHWf8HekQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-luigi-mangione-key-suspect-arrested-in-killing-of-unitedhealth-ceo-782840" jsname="YKoRaf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Who is Luigi Mangione? Key suspect arrested in killing of UnitedHealth CEO</a>
<h2>Targeted attack with a motive</h2>
Authorities allege that Mangione travelled to New York on November 24 with the explicit intent to kill Thompson. On December 4, he allegedly waited "for nearly an hour" outside Thompson's hotel before committing the crime.  
Police say that a "life-altering" back injury could be the potential motive behind the murder, though there is no evidence that Mangione was ever a client of UnitedHealthcare.
A handwritten three-page manifesto criticising the US healthcare system was found in his possession at the time of his arrest.  
"This was a frightening, well planned, targeted murder that was intended to cause shock and attention and intimidation," noted Bragg.

Mangione faces one count of first-degree murder, two counts of second-degree murder, "including one count of murder in the second degree as an act of terrorism" and several weapons charges related to his use of a 3D-printed firearm, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg announced.



New York, United States US prosecutors on Tuesday (Dec 17) charged Luigi Mangione in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, including first-degree murder, second-degree murder and "an act of terrorism." Thompson was gunned down on a Manhattan street on December 4 in a case that triggered widespread outrage and a nationwide manhunt. Authorities apprehended 26-year-old Mangione last week at a McDonald's in Pennsylvania, where he remains in custody while contesting extradition to New York. Also read | Luigi Mangione: A murder suspect 'too hot to be guilty' for Gen Z Charges and allegations against the 'CEO killer' Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg announced that Mangione faces one count of first-degree murder, two counts of second-degree murder, "including one count of murder in the second degree as an act of terrorism"—and several weapons charges related to his use of a 3D-printed firearm. Bragg explained the terrorism charge, stating, "In its most basic terms, this was a killing that was intended to evoke terror and we've seen that reaction," adding that it "was not an ordinary killing." The maximum penalty for the charges is life imprisonment without parole. Watch | Luigi Mangione: Who Is The Man Accused Of Killing UnitedHealthcare’s CEO? According to prosecutors, Mangione used a 3D-printed nine-millimetre "ghost gun" equipped with a suppressor to shoot the UnitedHealthcare CEO. "We allege he... took out a nine-millimetre 3D-printed ghost gun equipped with a 3D-printed suppressor and shot (Thompson) once in the back and once in the leg," said the Manhattan District Attorney. Bragg highlighted the growing concern over untraceable ghost guns, noting that "last year, over 80 ghost guns and ghost gun parts were recovered in Manhattan alone." "Evolving technology will only make this problem worse," he said. Also read | Who is Luigi Mangione? Key suspect arrested in killing of UnitedHealth CEO Targeted attack with a motive Authorities allege that Mangione travelled to New York on November 24 with the explicit intent to kill Thompson. On December 4, he allegedly waited "for nearly an hour" outside Thompson's hotel before committing the crime. Police say that a "life-altering" back injury could be the potential motive behind the murder, though there is no evidence that Mangione was ever a client of UnitedHealthcare. A handwritten three-page manifesto criticising the US healthcare system was found in his possession at the time of his arrest. "This was a frightening, well planned, targeted murder that was intended to cause shock and attention and intimidation," noted Bragg.

Luigi Mangione, suspect in Brian Thompson's shooting, charged with CEO's murder, terrorism

Tokyo, Japan
Space One, which is aiming to become Japan's first private firm to put a satellite into orbit, on Wednesday (Dec 18) said that its latest launch attempt for its rocket KAIROS has failed.
<h2>What happened?</h2>
Space One in a statement said that the rocket terminated its flight.
"Kairos was launched... but the rocket terminated its flight after judging that the achievement of its mission would be difficult," it said. The company also said that the details were under investigation.
Also read | <a data-ved="2ahUKEwjVsIWAt7CKAxUi3TQHHa2OLs8QxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-private-rocket-firm-space-one-halts-second-launch-attempt-minutes-before-liftoff-783905" jsname="YKoRaf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Japanese private rocket firm Space One halts second launch attempt minutes before liftoff</a>
According to AFP news agency, television footage of the launch showed the slim white colour rocket blasting off and soaring to the skies before spiralling downwards in the distance.
There was no dramatic blast.
Watch video here:
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Video: Japanese startup company Space One's Kairos No. 2 rocket launch ended in failure today. The company announced after liftoff that it determined continued flight was not feasible so they initiated "flight termination measures."<a href="https://t.co/SbDOHjhMwS">pic.twitter.com/SbDOHjhMwS</a> <a href="https://t.co/0QITL0Ou3U">https://t.co/0QITL0Ou3U</a>
— Jeffrey J. Hall ???? (@mrjeffu) <a href="https://twitter.com/mrjeffu/status/1869209336863695112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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This was the company's second failed launch attempt. In this attempt, the Kairos rocket was supposed to carry five satellites into orbit, including one from the Taiwan Space Agency and others designed by Japanese students and corporate ventures. 
<h2>Kairos' failures to launch</h2>
Previously, in March 2024, the 18-metre (60-foot) solid-fuel rocket Kairos, carrying a small government test satellite, blasted off from the Space One launch pad. However, just seconds later, a technical problem was detected and a self-destruct instruction was transmitted to the rocket. Soon after, the rocket erupted in flames with hundreds of spectators gathered nearby witnessing the dramatic scene.
Also read | <a data-ved="2ahUKEwjVsIWAt7CKAxUi3TQHHa2OLs8QxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-firm-space-ones-kairos-rocket-launch-delayed-for-third-time-amid-weather-woes-784071" jsname="YKoRaf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Japanese firm Space One's Kairos rocket launch delayed for third time amid weather woes</a>
Along with the two failed attempts, Space One's Kairos also has two postponements.
The Kairos rocket was scheduled to blast off from the company's launch pad, dubbed Spaceport Kii, in the rural western region of Wakayama on Saturday (Dec 13). However, just 20 minutes before the scheduled launch, it was called off and rescheduled for 24 hours later - Sunday, only for the launch to be called off again.
(With inputs from agencies)

"Kairos was launched... but the rocket terminated its flight after judging that the achievement of its mission would be difficult," said Space One in a statement



Tokyo, Japan Space One, which is aiming to become Japan's first private firm to put a satellite into orbit, on Wednesday (Dec 18) said that its latest launch attempt for its rocket KAIROS has failed. What happened? Space One in a statement said that the rocket terminated its flight. "Kairos was launched... but the rocket terminated its flight after judging that the achievement of its mission would be difficult," it said. The company also said that the details were under investigation. Also read | Japanese private rocket firm Space One halts second launch attempt minutes before liftoff According to AFP news agency, television footage of the launch showed the slim white colour rocket blasting off and soaring to the skies before spiralling downwards in the distance. There was no dramatic blast. Watch video here: Video: Japanese startup company Space One's Kairos No. 2 rocket launch ended in failure today. The company announced after liftoff that it determined continued flight was not feasible so they initiated "flight termination measures."pic.twitter.com/SbDOHjhMwS https://t.co/0QITL0Ou3U — Jeffrey J. Hall ???? (@mrjeffu) December 18, 2024 × This was the company's second failed launch attempt. In this attempt, the Kairos rocket was supposed to carry five satellites into orbit, including one from the Taiwan Space Agency and others designed by Japanese students and corporate ventures. Kairos' failures to launch Previously, in March 2024, the 18-metre (60-foot) solid-fuel rocket Kairos, carrying a small government test satellite, blasted off from the Space One launch pad. However, just seconds later, a technical problem was detected and a self-destruct instruction was transmitted to the rocket. Soon after, the rocket erupted in flames with hundreds of spectators gathered nearby witnessing the dramatic scene. Also read | Japanese firm Space One's Kairos rocket launch delayed for third time amid weather woes Along with the two failed attempts, Space One's Kairos also has two postponements. The Kairos rocket was scheduled to blast off from the company's launch pad, dubbed Spaceport Kii, in the rural western region of Wakayama on Saturday (Dec 13). However, just 20 minutes before the scheduled launch, it was called off and rescheduled for 24 hours later - Sunday, only for the launch to be called off again. (With inputs from agencies)

Japanese space firm's Kairos rocket fails again: Falls from sky in latest setback. Watch video here

New Delhi
Academy Awards 2025: Sad news for Indian fans as Laapata Ladies failed to make it to the shortlisted names. In the category for Best International Feature, a total of 15 names was announced and India’s official entry failed to make the cut. The shortlisted names was announced by the Academy of Motion Pictures, Arts and Sciences, who organises the Oscars.
The list included expected names like Emilia Perez and From Ground Zero but missed India's official entry.
The news upset Indian fans who felt that another film would have done better than Laapata Ladies. The internet was abuzz with suggestions like the most obvious one, All We Imagine As Light, the much-awarded indie film by Payal Kapadia. 
Netizens blamed the Indian authorities for not naming All We Imagine As Light and making a poor choice. They blamed the Film Federation of India for 'humiliating' the country. 
Laapataa Ladies, directed by Kiran Rao, was unanimously selected as India's official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the Academy Awards earlier this year.
At the time of its selection, many believed that Kapadia's Cannes-winning film All We Imagine As Light was a stronger contender.
<h2>Here’s what the netizens said</h2>
One X user wrote, "FFI snubbed AWIAL, destroying our chances to be on the list. The Film Federation of India requires a full revamp. The ones who are there now should step down and let others who understand and know the art of cinema take over.”
Another user added, “Guess what is Missing or Laapata from the Oscars shortlist. Future lesson for that confederacy of dunces of Film Federation of India committee - An oscar campaign for your beloved desi film can't start in October. All We Imagine As Light had a direct path to an Oscar nod.”
India's official entry to the Oscars is selected by the FFI, an independent body tasked by the Academy for this job. Given the controversies around India's official selections in recent years and their subsequent dismal record at the Oscars, many called for the body to be dissolved.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rapper-badshah-violates-traffic-rules-in-gurugram-fined-for-rs-15000-784689">Rapper Badshah violates traffic rules in Gurugram, fined Rs 15,000</a>
Another person wrote, "Film federation of India does it again; the cinema lovers of India should protest.” Another wrote, “A shattering humiliation for India. A calamitous defeat for the Film Federation that could be seen coming from afar. If the only measure of success is to make choices that make you competitive, they have utterly &amp; entirely failed. FFI needs an overhaul &amp; people need to be fired.”
<h2>About Laapata Ladies and All We Imagine As Light</h2>
Laapata Ladies featured newcomers Sparsh Srivastava, Pratibha Ranta and Nitanshi Goel, alongside Ravi Kishen and Chhaya Kadam.
The film is about two brides being interchanged in rural 1990s India.
All We Imagine As Light is an ode to the working class of Mumbai.
The film starring Kani Kusruti, Divya Prabha, Chhaya Kadam and Hridhu Haroon won the Grand Prize at the Cannes Film Festival, and secured nominations at both the Golden Globes and the Critics Choice Awards.

Laapata Ladies was India's official entry for the Academy Awards' Best International Feature category. 



New Delhi Academy Awards 2025: Sad news for Indian fans as Laapata Ladies failed to make it to the shortlisted names. In the category for Best International Feature, a total of 15 names was announced and India’s official entry failed to make the cut. The shortlisted names was announced by the Academy of Motion Pictures, Arts and Sciences, who organises the Oscars. The list included expected names like Emilia Perez and From Ground Zero but missed India's official entry. The news upset Indian fans who felt that another film would have done better than Laapata Ladies. The internet was abuzz with suggestions like the most obvious one, All We Imagine As Light, the much-awarded indie film by Payal Kapadia. Netizens blamed the Indian authorities for not naming All We Imagine As Light and making a poor choice. They blamed the Film Federation of India for 'humiliating' the country. Laapataa Ladies, directed by Kiran Rao, was unanimously selected as India's official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the Academy Awards earlier this year. At the time of its selection, many believed that Kapadia's Cannes-winning film All We Imagine As Light was a stronger contender. Here’s what the netizens said One X user wrote, "FFI snubbed AWIAL, destroying our chances to be on the list. The Film Federation of India requires a full revamp. The ones who are there now should step down and let others who understand and know the art of cinema take over.” Another user added, “Guess what is Missing or Laapata from the Oscars shortlist. Future lesson for that confederacy of dunces of Film Federation of India committee - An oscar campaign for your beloved desi film can't start in October. All We Imagine As Light had a direct path to an Oscar nod.” India's official entry to the Oscars is selected by the FFI, an independent body tasked by the Academy for this job. Given the controversies around India's official selections in recent years and their subsequent dismal record at the Oscars, many called for the body to be dissolved. Also read: Rapper Badshah violates traffic rules in Gurugram, fined Rs 15,000 Another person wrote, "Film federation of India does it again; the cinema lovers of India should protest.” Another wrote, “A shattering humiliation for India. A calamitous defeat for the Film Federation that could be seen coming from afar. If the only measure of success is to make choices that make you competitive, they have utterly & entirely failed. FFI needs an overhaul & people need to be fired.” About Laapata Ladies and All We Imagine As Light Laapata Ladies featured newcomers Sparsh Srivastava, Pratibha Ranta and Nitanshi Goel, alongside Ravi Kishen and Chhaya Kadam. The film is about two brides being interchanged in rural 1990s India. All We Imagine As Light is an ode to the working class of Mumbai. The film starring Kani Kusruti, Divya Prabha, Chhaya Kadam and Hridhu Haroon won the Grand Prize at the Cannes Film Festival, and secured nominations at both the Golden Globes and the Critics Choice Awards.

Laapataa Ladies out of Oscars race; netizens upset with Film Federation of India

New Delhi
Honda and Nissan, Japan's second and third-largest automakers, are in talks to deepen their partnership. The discussions, reported by Nikkei, aim to create a formidable domestic rival to Toyota and other global automakers. With a net worth of $54 billion, the combined entity would become the third-largest global auto group by vehicle sales, surpassing both Ford and General Motors. 
This potential deal comes when both companies face increased pressure from the electric vehicle price war and are looking for ways to reduce costs and accelerate development. Shares of Nissan surged more than 22 per cent following the report, while Honda's stock declined by 2.3 per cent. If the merger were to happen, the combined group would exceed the previous record merger between Fiat Chrysler and PSA group in 2021 to create Stellantis.
The talks also include a possible partnership with Mitsubishi Motors, in which Nissan holds a 24 per cent stake. This move could reshape the Japanese automotive landscape and provide a new axis of competition against Toyota, which has long dominated the domestic market. In addition, Honda and Nissan are exploring ways to collaborate on key components for electric vehicles and artificial intelligence in automotive software platforms.
Nissan, in particular, is under financial pressure, having announced plans to cut 9,000 jobs and reduce its global production capacity by 20 per cent. While the talks are still ongoing and no official deal has been announced.

This move could reshape the Japanese automotive landscape and provide a new axis of competition against Toyota, which has long dominated the domestic market. In addition, Honda and Nissan are exploring ways to collaborate on key components for electric vehicles and artificial intelligence in automotive software platforms.



New Delhi Honda and Nissan, Japan's second and third-largest automakers, are in talks to deepen their partnership. The discussions, reported by Nikkei, aim to create a formidable domestic rival to Toyota and other global automakers. With a net worth of $54 billion, the combined entity would become the third-largest global auto group by vehicle sales, surpassing both Ford and General Motors. This potential deal comes when both companies face increased pressure from the electric vehicle price war and are looking for ways to reduce costs and accelerate development. Shares of Nissan surged more than 22 per cent following the report, while Honda's stock declined by 2.3 per cent. If the merger were to happen, the combined group would exceed the previous record merger between Fiat Chrysler and PSA group in 2021 to create Stellantis. The talks also include a possible partnership with Mitsubishi Motors, in which Nissan holds a 24 per cent stake. This move could reshape the Japanese automotive landscape and provide a new axis of competition against Toyota, which has long dominated the domestic market. In addition, Honda and Nissan are exploring ways to collaborate on key components for electric vehicles and artificial intelligence in automotive software platforms. Nissan, in particular, is under financial pressure, having announced plans to cut 9,000 jobs and reduce its global production capacity by 20 per cent. While the talks are still ongoing and no official deal has been announced.

Japanese automakers Honda & Nissan explore alliance

Kingstown, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Taskin Ahmed spearheaded a superb bowling effort as Bangladesh defended another modest total to claim a series-clinching 27-run victory over the West Indies in the second T20 International of a three-match series at the Arnos Vale Stadium in St Vincent on Tuesday.
After the tourists were limited to 129 for seven, medium-pacer Taskin claimed two early wickets and then returned to seal victory in the 19th over when he dismissed all-rounder Akeal Hosein, who fell for 31 to a catch at backward-point just as he was threatening to win the match off his own bat as the West Indies were folded for 102.
Taskin finished with three for 16 while fellow seamer Tanzim Hasan Sakib and wrist-spinner Rishad Hossain took two wickets each.
Hosein and Roston Chase rescued the Caribbean team from an abject collapse at 42 for six in the ninth over, putting on 47 for the seventh wicket before Hossain struck two critical blows when he bowled Chase for a topscore of 32 and then had Gudakesh Motie taken at long-off first ball to tilt the balance of the match decisively Bangladesh’s way.
Earlier, they were again indebted to another late flurry from Shamim Hossain in getting up to their final total.
He belted two fours and two sixes in getting to an unbeaten 35 off just 17 balls, dominating an unbroken 41-run eighth-wicket partnership with Tanzim (9 not out). Shamim's efforts earned him the "Man of the Match" award.
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Like the West Indies, Bangladesh also got off to a bad start, slumping to 52 for five by the 11th over, the only contribution of note at that point coming from Mehidy Hasan Miraz with 26.
However, Jaker Ali's 21 avoided a complete collapse and his demise opened the way for Shamim to dominate the end of the innings with Tanzim offering sturdy support.
Motie's left-arm spinners earned him the best figures for the West Indies with two for 25.
Swept 3-0 in the preceding One-Day International series after the teams shared the Tests 1-1, Bangladesh will now be seeking their own 3-0 sweep when the final match is played at the same venue on Thursday.
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.

After the tourists were limited to 129 for seven, medium-pacer Taskin claimed two early wickets and then returned to seal victory in the 19th over when he dismissed all-rounder Akeal Hosein, who fell for 31 to a catch at backward-point just as he was threatening to win the match off his own bat as the West Indies were folded for 102.



Kingstown, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Taskin Ahmed spearheaded a superb bowling effort as Bangladesh defended another modest total to claim a series-clinching 27-run victory over the West Indies in the second T20 International of a three-match series at the Arnos Vale Stadium in St Vincent on Tuesday. After the tourists were limited to 129 for seven, medium-pacer Taskin claimed two early wickets and then returned to seal victory in the 19th over when he dismissed all-rounder Akeal Hosein, who fell for 31 to a catch at backward-point just as he was threatening to win the match off his own bat as the West Indies were folded for 102. Taskin finished with three for 16 while fellow seamer Tanzim Hasan Sakib and wrist-spinner Rishad Hossain took two wickets each. Hosein and Roston Chase rescued the Caribbean team from an abject collapse at 42 for six in the ninth over, putting on 47 for the seventh wicket before Hossain struck two critical blows when he bowled Chase for a topscore of 32 and then had Gudakesh Motie taken at long-off first ball to tilt the balance of the match decisively Bangladesh’s way. Earlier, they were again indebted to another late flurry from Shamim Hossain in getting up to their final total. He belted two fours and two sixes in getting to an unbeaten 35 off just 17 balls, dominating an unbroken 41-run eighth-wicket partnership with Tanzim (9 not out). Shamim's efforts earned him the "Man of the Match" award. ALSO READ | Vinicius Jr, Aitana Bonmati named FIFA Best players of the year Like the West Indies, Bangladesh also got off to a bad start, slumping to 52 for five by the 11th over, the only contribution of note at that point coming from Mehidy Hasan Miraz with 26. However, Jaker Ali's 21 avoided a complete collapse and his demise opened the way for Shamim to dominate the end of the innings with Tanzim offering sturdy support. Motie's left-arm spinners earned him the best figures for the West Indies with two for 25. Swept 3-0 in the preceding One-Day International series after the teams shared the Tests 1-1, Bangladesh will now be seeking their own 3-0 sweep when the final match is played at the same venue on Thursday. 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.

WI vs BAN: Bangladesh beat West Indies by 27 runs to pocket T20I series

Milan, Italy
Holders Juventus progressed to the quarter-finals of the Italian Cup with a 4-0 win at home to Cagliari on Tuesday.
Dusan Vlahovic slotted home a first-half opener, before Teun Koopmeiners wrapped up the last-16 tie for the 15-time winners with a sensational free-kick from distance.
Francisco Conceicao and Nico Gonzalez netted late to underline an emphatic performance by the Old Lady.
"It was a good performance," Juve coach Thiago Motta told Canale 5.
"These lads are going through a tough situation in the right way, giving their all in every training session," he added of his players who have endured a stop-start domestic campaign as they sit sixth in the league table.
Juve join Lazio, Empoli, Bologna and AC Milan in the next stage of the cup.
Serie A leaders Atalanta are in action on Wednesday against Cesena, while Roma take on Sampdoria.
Reigning Scudetto champions Inter Milan complete the round of 16 when they host Udinese on Thursday.
In Turin, Vlahovic put the home side in front one minute before half-time when he swivelled smartly on a pass to feet from Kenan Yildiz and rolled the ball into the far corner.
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Summer signing Koopmeiners then notched up his second goal for Juve with an unstoppable left-footed free-kick from 25 metres out in the 53rd minute.
Vlahovic had the ball in the net twice more for Juve as they pressed forward in search of a third, but was on both occasions denied by the assistant's flag for offside.
Conceicao eventually made it three on 80 minutes with a whipped finish after cutting in from the right flank and Gonzalez chipped home a fourth with one minute remaining.
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.

Dusan Vlahovic slotted home a first-half opener, before Teun Koopmeiners wrapped up the last-16 tie for the 15-time winners with a sensational free-kick from distance.



Milan, Italy Holders Juventus progressed to the quarter-finals of the Italian Cup with a 4-0 win at home to Cagliari on Tuesday. Dusan Vlahovic slotted home a first-half opener, before Teun Koopmeiners wrapped up the last-16 tie for the 15-time winners with a sensational free-kick from distance. Francisco Conceicao and Nico Gonzalez netted late to underline an emphatic performance by the Old Lady. "It was a good performance," Juve coach Thiago Motta told Canale 5. "These lads are going through a tough situation in the right way, giving their all in every training session," he added of his players who have endured a stop-start domestic campaign as they sit sixth in the league table. Juve join Lazio, Empoli, Bologna and AC Milan in the next stage of the cup. Serie A leaders Atalanta are in action on Wednesday against Cesena, while Roma take on Sampdoria. Reigning Scudetto champions Inter Milan complete the round of 16 when they host Udinese on Thursday. In Turin, Vlahovic put the home side in front one minute before half-time when he swivelled smartly on a pass to feet from Kenan Yildiz and rolled the ball into the far corner. ALSO READ | Super League promoters reveal approaching FIFA, UEFA for official recognition Summer signing Koopmeiners then notched up his second goal for Juve with an unstoppable left-footed free-kick from 25 metres out in the 53rd minute. Vlahovic had the ball in the net twice more for Juve as they pressed forward in search of a third, but was on both occasions denied by the assistant's flag for offside. Conceicao eventually made it three on 80 minutes with a whipped finish after cutting in from the right flank and Gonzalez chipped home a fourth with one minute remaining. 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.

Copa Italia: Teun Koopmeiners stunner sends Juventus into quarters

Doha, Qatar
Real Madrid attacker Vinicius Junior won the FIFA Best men's player of the year award at a ceremony in Doha on Tuesday, while Barcelona midfielder Aitana Bonmati picked up the women's prize for the second time.
The award comes two months after 24-year-old Vinicius was second in the Ballon d'Or, with Real electing to snub the ceremony when they found out beforehand that Manchester City midfielder Rodri was set to win the trophy.
But the Brazilian was this time on hand to collect the prize in person as he is in Qatar with his club ahead of their Intercontinental Cup final clash with Mexico's Pachuca on Wednesday.
"Thank you very much. I don't know where to start. It was impossible to think of getting here. I grew up in a world of poverty, of organised crime. It's for all the children who grow up in that world. I thank everyone who voted for me," Vinicius said on stage.
"(Thank you) To my family, to the club, to my teammates, to Carletto (Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti), who always helps me. 
"To everyone who helped make my dream come true. I hope to be at Madrid for many years, because it is the best club in the world. To Flamengo (his first club in Brazil). To my team-mates in my national team. And to my country, which always supports me in my work."
Vinicius succeeds Lionel Messi as the FIFA Best men's player after the Argentinian scooped up the last two editions of the award.
The live wire forward scored 24 goals and laid on 11 assists in 39 matches across all competitions as he led Real to a La Liga and Champions League double last season.
Having already wrapped up his third La Liga title in May, Vinicius secured the second Champions League trophy of his career as Real beat Borussia Dortmund 2-0 on June 1.
Vinicius was on the scoresheet at Wembley with a pinpoint finish inside the final 10 minutes to make the game safe for his team.
If Vinicius at times played second fiddle to clubmate Jude Bellingham in La Liga, he was undoubtedly the main man for Madrid in Europe once the going got serious.
He was the top scorer for the Champions League winners with six goals in the competition, including the strike in the final and a brace in Madrid's 4-3 aggregate win over Bayern Munich in the semi-finals.
He also scored a hat-trick in a 4-1 victory in the final of the Supercopa against arch-rivals Barcelona in January.
But it was not all plain sailing last season for Vinicius as he endured a disappointing Copa America with the Brazilian national team over the summer.
He scored two goals in a group-stage win against Paraguay, but his side ultimately crashed out on penalties to Uruguay in the quarter-finals.
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<h2>Serial winner Bonmati</h2>
The 26-year-old Spaniard Bonmati picked up the Best women's player award for the second year running, adding to the two Ballon d'Or trophies she already boasts.
"I'm grateful, I'm proud to receive this award," Bonmati said via video link from Barcelona's Olympic stadium.
Last term, Bonmati led Barcelona to a historic continental quadruple of titles and claimed the Nations League with her national team.
She won every trophy available to her in club football in 2023/24 -- the Spanish league, the Copa de la Reina, the Supercopa de Espana and a second-successive Women's Champions League.
Bonmati scored a goal and put in a player-of-the-match performance as Barcelona beat Lyon 2-0 in the final of the Champions League to claim their third title in four seasons.
Manchester United's Argentine forward Alejandro Garnacho won the Puskas award for the best goal of the year for his spectacular bicycle kick against Everton in the Premier League.
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 award comes two months after 24-year-old Vinicius was second in the Ballon d'Or, with Real electing to snub the ceremony when they found out beforehand that Manchester City midfielder Rodri was set to win the trophy.



Doha, Qatar Real Madrid attacker Vinicius Junior won the FIFA Best men's player of the year award at a ceremony in Doha on Tuesday, while Barcelona midfielder Aitana Bonmati picked up the women's prize for the second time. The award comes two months after 24-year-old Vinicius was second in the Ballon d'Or, with Real electing to snub the ceremony when they found out beforehand that Manchester City midfielder Rodri was set to win the trophy. But the Brazilian was this time on hand to collect the prize in person as he is in Qatar with his club ahead of their Intercontinental Cup final clash with Mexico's Pachuca on Wednesday. "Thank you very much. I don't know where to start. It was impossible to think of getting here. I grew up in a world of poverty, of organised crime. It's for all the children who grow up in that world. I thank everyone who voted for me," Vinicius said on stage. "(Thank you) To my family, to the club, to my teammates, to Carletto (Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti), who always helps me. "To everyone who helped make my dream come true. I hope to be at Madrid for many years, because it is the best club in the world. To Flamengo (his first club in Brazil). To my team-mates in my national team. And to my country, which always supports me in my work." Vinicius succeeds Lionel Messi as the FIFA Best men's player after the Argentinian scooped up the last two editions of the award. The live wire forward scored 24 goals and laid on 11 assists in 39 matches across all competitions as he led Real to a La Liga and Champions League double last season. Having already wrapped up his third La Liga title in May, Vinicius secured the second Champions League trophy of his career as Real beat Borussia Dortmund 2-0 on June 1. Vinicius was on the scoresheet at Wembley with a pinpoint finish inside the final 10 minutes to make the game safe for his team. If Vinicius at times played second fiddle to clubmate Jude Bellingham in La Liga, he was undoubtedly the main man for Madrid in Europe once the going got serious. He was the top scorer for the Champions League winners with six goals in the competition, including the strike in the final and a brace in Madrid's 4-3 aggregate win over Bayern Munich in the semi-finals. He also scored a hat-trick in a 4-1 victory in the final of the Supercopa against arch-rivals Barcelona in January. But it was not all plain sailing last season for Vinicius as he endured a disappointing Copa America with the Brazilian national team over the summer. He scored two goals in a group-stage win against Paraguay, but his side ultimately crashed out on penalties to Uruguay in the quarter-finals. ALSO READ | Super League promoters reveal approaching FIFA, UEFA for official recognition Serial winner Bonmati The 26-year-old Spaniard Bonmati picked up the Best women's player award for the second year running, adding to the two Ballon d'Or trophies she already boasts. "I'm grateful, I'm proud to receive this award," Bonmati said via video link from Barcelona's Olympic stadium. Last term, Bonmati led Barcelona to a historic continental quadruple of titles and claimed the Nations League with her national team. She won every trophy available to her in club football in 2023/24 -- the Spanish league, the Copa de la Reina, the Supercopa de Espana and a second-successive Women's Champions League. Bonmati scored a goal and put in a player-of-the-match performance as Barcelona beat Lyon 2-0 in the final of the Champions League to claim their third title in four seasons. Manchester United's Argentine forward Alejandro Garnacho won the Puskas award for the best goal of the year for his spectacular bicycle kick against Everton in the Premier League. 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.

Vinicius Jr, Aitana Bonmati named FIFA Best players of the year

Washington, United States
Democrats and Republicans on Capitol Hill on Tuesday reached a deal after weeks of fraught negotiations to keep federal agencies funded and operating through mid-March, thus averting a costly government shutdown before the holidays. 
The so-called "continuing resolution" -- expected to be the last major bill Congress passes this year -- must be adopted in the Republican-led House of Representatives before heading to the Senate, which must vote before week's end.
The compromise draft would then be sent to President Joe Biden for his signature.
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The House has a rule stipulating that no bill can be considered on the floor less than 72 hours before the text is released. This means a House vote will likely come on Friday, with the Senate potentially following suit the same day.
Negotiations had been bogged down in Congress as Republicans pushed for billions of dollars in new economic help for farmers, with the shutdown deadline fast approaching.
Democrats pushed for several of their own add-ons, from cash to cover the cost of rebuilding a destroyed bridge in Baltimore and museums in Washington to honor women and Hispanics.
With President-elect Donald Trump keen to avoid distractions as he eyes his White House return in January, Republicans have no appetite for a shutdown, especially just before Christmas.
The draft notably includes $100 billion in disaster aid requested by Biden, after two devastating hurricanes in September and October, as well as $10 billion in aid to American farmers.
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Democrat Rosa DeLauro was quick to offer her support for the draft, calling it "a responsible and necessary measure" to keep the government afloat.
Republicans will retake the majority in the Senate in early January when newly elected members are sworn in. Trump will return to the Oval Office on January 20. 
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 so-called "continuing resolution" -- expected to be the last major bill Congress passes this year -- must be adopted in the Republican-led House of Representatives before heading to the Senate, which must vote before week's end



Washington, United States Democrats and Republicans on Capitol Hill on Tuesday reached a deal after weeks of fraught negotiations to keep federal agencies funded and operating through mid-March, thus averting a costly government shutdown before the holidays. The so-called "continuing resolution" -- expected to be the last major bill Congress passes this year -- must be adopted in the Republican-led House of Representatives before heading to the Senate, which must vote before week's end. The compromise draft would then be sent to President Joe Biden for his signature. Also read | Alleged CEO killer Luigi Mangione charged with murder, terrorism for Brian Thompson's murder The House has a rule stipulating that no bill can be considered on the floor less than 72 hours before the text is released. This means a House vote will likely come on Friday, with the Senate potentially following suit the same day. Negotiations had been bogged down in Congress as Republicans pushed for billions of dollars in new economic help for farmers, with the shutdown deadline fast approaching. Democrats pushed for several of their own add-ons, from cash to cover the cost of rebuilding a destroyed bridge in Baltimore and museums in Washington to honor women and Hispanics. With President-elect Donald Trump keen to avoid distractions as he eyes his White House return in January, Republicans have no appetite for a shutdown, especially just before Christmas. The draft notably includes $100 billion in disaster aid requested by Biden, after two devastating hurricanes in September and October, as well as $10 billion in aid to American farmers. Also read | US congressman claims unidentified aircraft in New Jersey, New York are Chinese 'spy drones' Democrat Rosa DeLauro was quick to offer her support for the draft, calling it "a responsible and necessary measure" to keep the government afloat. Republicans will retake the majority in the Senate in early January when newly elected members are sworn in. Trump will return to the Oval Office on January 20. 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 congress reaches last-minute deal to avoid federal shutdown before Christmas

Nigeria
Nigeria's anti-graft agency said it had arrested 792 suspects in a raid on a building believed to be a hub for fraudsters who lured victims with offers of romance, then pressed them to hand over cash for phony cryptocurrency investments.
The suspects, including 148 Chinese and 40 Filipino nationals, were detained on December 10 at the seven-storey Big Leaf Building in Lagos, Nigeria's commercial capital, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission spokesperson Wilson Uwujaren said.
The luxury building housed a call centre mostly targeting victims from the Americas and Europe, he added.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyber-slavery-thousands-of-indians-are-trapped-and-tens-of-thousands-have-gone-missing-in-south-asia-763178">Also read: Cyber slavery: Thousands of Indians are trapped and tens of thousands have gone missing in Southeast Asia</a>
Staff there would make contact with people through social media and messaging platforms, including WhatsApp and Instagram, then seduce them online or offer them apparently lucrative investment opportunities, Uwujaren told reporters.
Once victims were hooked, they were pressured to transfer money for fake cryptocurrency schemes and other non-existent projects.
"Nigerian accomplices were recruited by the foreign kingpins to prospect for victims online through phishing, targeting mostly Americans, Canadians, Mexicans, and several others from European countries," Uwujaren said.
Watch | ‘Cyber Crime Is The New Geopolitical Weapon:’ Ex-Foreign Affairs Secretary Shyam Saran
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"Once the Nigerians are able to win the confidence of would-be victims, the foreigners would take over the actual task of defrauding the victims," he said.
Uwujaren said the Commission was collaborating with international partners and would look into potential links to organised crime. Its agents seized computers, phones, and vehicles in the raid, he added.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The suspects, including 148 Chinese and 40 Filipino nationals, were detained on Dec 10 at the seven-storey Big Leaf Building in Lagos, Nigeria's commercial capital, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission spokesperson Wilson Uwujaren said.



Nigeria Nigeria's anti-graft agency said it had arrested 792 suspects in a raid on a building believed to be a hub for fraudsters who lured victims with offers of romance, then pressed them to hand over cash for phony cryptocurrency investments. The suspects, including 148 Chinese and 40 Filipino nationals, were detained on December 10 at the seven-storey Big Leaf Building in Lagos, Nigeria's commercial capital, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission spokesperson Wilson Uwujaren said. The luxury building housed a call centre mostly targeting victims from the Americas and Europe, he added. Also read: Cyber slavery: Thousands of Indians are trapped and tens of thousands have gone missing in Southeast Asia Staff there would make contact with people through social media and messaging platforms, including WhatsApp and Instagram, then seduce them online or offer them apparently lucrative investment opportunities, Uwujaren told reporters. Once victims were hooked, they were pressured to transfer money for fake cryptocurrency schemes and other non-existent projects. "Nigerian accomplices were recruited by the foreign kingpins to prospect for victims online through phishing, targeting mostly Americans, Canadians, Mexicans, and several others from European countries," Uwujaren said. Watch | ‘Cyber Crime Is The New Geopolitical Weapon:’ Ex-Foreign Affairs Secretary Shyam Saran × "Once the Nigerians are able to win the confidence of would-be victims, the foreigners would take over the actual task of defrauding the victims," he said. Uwujaren said the Commission was collaborating with international partners and would look into potential links to organised crime. Its agents seized computers, phones, and vehicles in the raid, he added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Almost 800 arrested in Nigeria over crypto-romance scam

France
France's new Prime Minister Francois Bayrou Tuesday fended off a torrent of criticism after he chaired a provincial town hall meeting as the French Indian Ocean island of Mayotte grappled with the devastation of a cyclone.
The controversy erupted less than a week after Bayrou was named as the sixth prime minister of  President Emmanuel Macron's mandate with the task of ending months of political crisis.
The veteran centrist had already ruffled some feathers by insisting that he would keep his post as mayor of the southwestern city of Pau while serving as prime minister.
Bayrou went to Pau Monday evening to attend the town hall meeting where he confirmed that he would stay on in the post that he has held for the last decade.
His presence there meant he had to attend a meeting called by Macron on the Mayotte crisis by video. Hundreds are feared to have died in the storm.
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French National Assembly speaker Yael Braun-Pivet, a member of Macron's centrist party, criticised the trip to Pau.
"In the face of such a catastrophe -- of a kind that has not been seen on French territory for decades -- it is important to be side-by-side with the people."
"I would have preferred that the prime minister, instead of taking a plane for Pau, took a plane for Mamoudzou," she told Franceinfo radio, referring to Mayotte's capital.
The head of the hard-left France Unbowed (LFI) in parliament Mathilde Panot said that after "20 years of the politics of abandonment" of Mayotte, Bayrou "did not understand the symbol" he had sent by going to Pau.
On the right, Republicans (LR) MP Thibault Bazin said that the municipal council could have "done without" the presence of its mayor" given the events in Mayotte and the urgency of France needing a 2025 budget.
Watch | Mayotte Reels From Cyclone Chido's Devastation
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'My responsibility' 
But quizzed about the trip in parliament, Bayrou defended his travel to Pau and remaining its mayor, saying, "We do not have the right to separate the province and the circle of power in Paris."
"Pau is in France," he argued.
"I chaired the municipal council of my city... and I consider that, in doing so, I was also carrying out my responsibility as a citizen," he added.
Bayrou sparked further controversy by declaring "it is not customary for the prime minister and the president to leave the national territory at the same time." Macron has said he will go to Mayotte. But critics pointed out that Mayotte as an overseas territory is an integral part of France.
Appointed on Friday, Bayrou has still to name a government, with ministers from the previous administration staying on in a caretaker capacity.
Bayrou met Macron on Tuesday to discuss the cabinet and was to hold further talks with the head of state, a source close to the prime minister said.
Bayrou told reporters he hoped to have a government formed "in the next days".
In a day of high political drama when Bayrou was unveiled as premier on Friday, sources said Bayrou had effectively strong-armed Macron into naming him by threatening to withdraw the support of the centrist MoDem party that he leads.
Proud of his rural origins in southwestern France, Bayrou has written a biography of one of Pau's most famous natives and his personal hero, King Henry IV, who ruled from 1589 till his assassination in 1610.
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Bayrou went to Pau Monday evening to attend the town hall meeting where he confirmed that he would stay on in the post that he has held for the last decade.



France France's new Prime Minister Francois Bayrou Tuesday fended off a torrent of criticism after he chaired a provincial town hall meeting as the French Indian Ocean island of Mayotte grappled with the devastation of a cyclone. The controversy erupted less than a week after Bayrou was named as the sixth prime minister of President Emmanuel Macron's mandate with the task of ending months of political crisis. The veteran centrist had already ruffled some feathers by insisting that he would keep his post as mayor of the southwestern city of Pau while serving as prime minister. Bayrou went to Pau Monday evening to attend the town hall meeting where he confirmed that he would stay on in the post that he has held for the last decade. His presence there meant he had to attend a meeting called by Macron on the Mayotte crisis by video. Hundreds are feared to have died in the storm. Also read: How ramshackle housing left Mayotte exposed to Cyclone Chido's fury French National Assembly speaker Yael Braun-Pivet, a member of Macron's centrist party, criticised the trip to Pau. "In the face of such a catastrophe -- of a kind that has not been seen on French territory for decades -- it is important to be side-by-side with the people." "I would have preferred that the prime minister, instead of taking a plane for Pau, took a plane for Mamoudzou," she told Franceinfo radio, referring to Mayotte's capital. The head of the hard-left France Unbowed (LFI) in parliament Mathilde Panot said that after "20 years of the politics of abandonment" of Mayotte, Bayrou "did not understand the symbol" he had sent by going to Pau. On the right, Republicans (LR) MP Thibault Bazin said that the municipal council could have "done without" the presence of its mayor" given the events in Mayotte and the urgency of France needing a 2025 budget. Watch | Mayotte Reels From Cyclone Chido's Devastation × 'My responsibility' But quizzed about the trip in parliament, Bayrou defended his travel to Pau and remaining its mayor, saying, "We do not have the right to separate the province and the circle of power in Paris." "Pau is in France," he argued. "I chaired the municipal council of my city... and I consider that, in doing so, I was also carrying out my responsibility as a citizen," he added. Bayrou sparked further controversy by declaring "it is not customary for the prime minister and the president to leave the national territory at the same time." Macron has said he will go to Mayotte. But critics pointed out that Mayotte as an overseas territory is an integral part of France. Appointed on Friday, Bayrou has still to name a government, with ministers from the previous administration staying on in a caretaker capacity. Bayrou met Macron on Tuesday to discuss the cabinet and was to hold further talks with the head of state, a source close to the prime minister said. Bayrou told reporters he hoped to have a government formed "in the next days". In a day of high political drama when Bayrou was unveiled as premier on Friday, sources said Bayrou had effectively strong-armed Macron into naming him by threatening to withdraw the support of the centrist MoDem party that he leads. Proud of his rural origins in southwestern France, Bayrou has written a biography of one of Pau's most famous natives and his personal hero, King Henry IV, who ruled from 1589 till his assassination in 1610. 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.

France's new PM faces criticism for chairing town hall meeting amid Mayotte cyclone tragedy

Dhaka, Bangladesh
Mahfuj Alam, who holds a key position in the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government of Bangladesh, shared a post on social media that had a map that included India's eastern and northeastern territories of Bengal, Assam, and Tripura. However, the post was deleted after around two hours. 
Alam serves as a special aide to the Yunus government and is also an adviser of the interim government. 
He is a key student organiser of the protests in Bangladesh that led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina. 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/bangladesh/after-weeks-of-denial-bangladesh-finally-admits-88-incidents-of-violence-against-hindus-783111">Also read: After weeks of denial, Bangladesh finally admits 88 incidents of violence against Hindus</a>
Bangladesh Watch, a non-profit organisation, stated that Alam "alleged that #India maintains a "contain" and "ghettoize" policy towards #Bangladesh. He clearly states that 1975 (the coup that saw Sheikh Mujib and almost his entire family killed) and the 2024 protests both came to save Bangladesh from Indian "reliance" and "hegemony"."
"However, he says that to be truly victorious, independent, and liberated, Bangladesh must "come out of its cage" and expand geographically. He adds that their work has just begun," the organisation added. 
Watch | Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina Accuses Yunus Of Leading An 'Undemocratic Group'
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During his address at a Clinton Global Initiative event in New York in September, Yunus also introduced Alam as the "mastermind" of the protests that led to the August 5 changeover in Bangladesh.
This comes amid a rise in attacks on Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. Indian authorities have issued various statements, condemning these attacks. 
Hindus have increasingly come under attack in Bangladesh since the ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. 
The interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, earlier this week acknowledged that at least 88 incidents of violence had occurred against the Hindu community over the last few months.
(With inputs from agencies)

Alam serves as a special aide to the Yunus government and is also an adviser of the interim government. 



Dhaka, Bangladesh Mahfuj Alam, who holds a key position in the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government of Bangladesh, shared a post on social media that had a map that included India's eastern and northeastern territories of Bengal, Assam, and Tripura. However, the post was deleted after around two hours. Alam serves as a special aide to the Yunus government and is also an adviser of the interim government. He is a key student organiser of the protests in Bangladesh that led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina. Also read: After weeks of denial, Bangladesh finally admits 88 incidents of violence against Hindus Bangladesh Watch, a non-profit organisation, stated that Alam "alleged that #India maintains a "contain" and "ghettoize" policy towards #Bangladesh. He clearly states that 1975 (the coup that saw Sheikh Mujib and almost his entire family killed) and the 2024 protests both came to save Bangladesh from Indian "reliance" and "hegemony"." "However, he says that to be truly victorious, independent, and liberated, Bangladesh must "come out of its cage" and expand geographically. He adds that their work has just begun," the organisation added. Watch | Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina Accuses Yunus Of Leading An 'Undemocratic Group' × During his address at a Clinton Global Initiative event in New York in September, Yunus also introduced Alam as the "mastermind" of the protests that led to the August 5 changeover in Bangladesh. This comes amid a rise in attacks on Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. Indian authorities have issued various statements, condemning these attacks. Hindus have increasingly come under attack in Bangladesh since the ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. The interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, earlier this week acknowledged that at least 88 incidents of violence had occurred against the Hindu community over the last few months. (With inputs from agencies)

Yunus' key adviser shares Bangladesh map including India's eastern territories; later deletes post

Riverhead, New York
<meta content="uuidwSuslMwR6h3t" name="uuid"/>New York-based architect Rex Heuermann, who is the prime suspect in the Gilgo Beach murders, was on Tuesday (Dec 17) charged in the death of a seventh woman, American media reported.
Heuermann, 61, is charged with killing six other women whose remains were found on Long Island. He has pleaded not guilty to all the charges.
A report by the news agency Associated Press said that Heuermann was charged in the death of 24-year-old Valerie Mack, whose remains were first found on Long Island in 2000.
<h2>Heuermann pleads not guilty to killing Mack</h2>
The Associated Press report said that Heuermann pleaded not guilty to killing Mack. 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gilgo-beach-serial-killing-suspect-rex-heuermann-charged-in-more-murders-729487">Gilgo Beach serial killing suspect Rex Heuermann charged in more murders</a>
Some of Mack’s skeletal remains were initially discovered in Manorville, New York; authorities found more of her remains about 80 kilometres west, in Gilgo Beach, more than 10 years later. They were unidentified until genetic testing revealed her identity in 2020. 
In court papers, prosecutors said on Tuesday that human hair found with Mack's remains was sent for testing earlier this year and found to be a likely match with the genetic profile of Heuermann's daughter. 
His daughter has not been accused of any wrongdoing and would have been 3 or 4 years old when Mack died.
<h2>The Gilgo Beach murders</h2>
The investigation into the case dates back to 2010, when police searching for a missing woman found 10 sets of human remains in the scrub along a barrier island parkway.
Over the years, investigators used DNA analysis and other clues to identify the victims, many of whom were sex workers. 
Heuermann, who lived with his wife and two children in Massapequa Park on Long Island and commuted to a Manhattan architecture office, was arrested on July 13 last year. At that point, he was charged with murdering Barthelemy, Waterman and Amber Lynn Costello.
Earlier in 2024, he was charged in the deaths of three other women — Brainard-Barnes, Taylor and Sandra Costilla.
(With inputs from agencies)

Heuermann, 61, is charged with killing six other women whose remains were found on Long Island. He has pleaded not guilty to all the charges.



Riverhead, New York New York-based architect Rex Heuermann, who is the prime suspect in the Gilgo Beach murders, was on Tuesday (Dec 17) charged in the death of a seventh woman, American media reported. Heuermann, 61, is charged with killing six other women whose remains were found on Long Island. He has pleaded not guilty to all the charges. A report by the news agency Associated Press said that Heuermann was charged in the death of 24-year-old Valerie Mack, whose remains were first found on Long Island in 2000. Heuermann pleads not guilty to killing Mack The Associated Press report said that Heuermann pleaded not guilty to killing Mack. Also read | Gilgo Beach serial killing suspect Rex Heuermann charged in more murders Some of Mack’s skeletal remains were initially discovered in Manorville, New York; authorities found more of her remains about 80 kilometres west, in Gilgo Beach, more than 10 years later. They were unidentified until genetic testing revealed her identity in 2020. In court papers, prosecutors said on Tuesday that human hair found with Mack's remains was sent for testing earlier this year and found to be a likely match with the genetic profile of Heuermann's daughter. His daughter has not been accused of any wrongdoing and would have been 3 or 4 years old when Mack died. The Gilgo Beach murders The investigation into the case dates back to 2010, when police searching for a missing woman found 10 sets of human remains in the scrub along a barrier island parkway. Over the years, investigators used DNA analysis and other clues to identify the victims, many of whom were sex workers. Heuermann, who lived with his wife and two children in Massapequa Park on Long Island and commuted to a Manhattan architecture office, was arrested on July 13 last year. At that point, he was charged with murdering Barthelemy, Waterman and Amber Lynn Costello. Earlier in 2024, he was charged in the deaths of three other women — Brainard-Barnes, Taylor and Sandra Costilla. (With inputs from agencies)

Rex Heuermann, the prime suspect in Gilgo Beach murders, is charged in death of seventh woman

New Delhi, India
Saudi Arabia is the second country in the Gulf to get hosting rights for a FIFA World Cup. In a jaw-dropping announcement earlier, Saudi was named the host of the 2034 edition, 12 years after Qatar hosted this sporting spectacle for the first time. However, unlike in Qatar, where the government made a U-turn a few days after announcing no liquor for fans during the event, Saudi has cleared its stance, saying no alcohol will be served during, before or after the tournament.
During the 2022 mega event, which Lionel Messi-led Argentina won by beating the defending champions France in the penalty shoot-out, Qatar relaxed its alcohol laws. 
ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldo-wants-to-run-brazils-football-to-help-regain-its-glory-as-world-champions-784763">Ronaldo wants to run Brazil’s football to help regain its glory as world champions</a>
Though they barred everyone from consuming liquor during any game inside the stadium or its premises, the government allowed foreign citizens to purchase it from specific stores and drink in waterholes in select hotels in the capital city of Doha. 
Per the latest report, Saudi is highly unlikely to relax any laws around it for the showpiece event.
“FIFA sources told the Guardian there were no plans to pressure the Saudi government to relax their laws. FIFA has not publicly addressed the matter, but insiders confirmed that there will be no beer sales at matches,” a Guardian report claimed.
<h2>'Stay home if you cannot respect rules'</h2>
Meanwhile, Saudi banned alcohol, including its sale and consumption since 1952, even for foreign citizens, with the violation inviting fines, jail, public flogging or even deportation. Considering the harsh punishments, European and American fans were seemingly concerned and disappointed when FIFA allotted the 2034 edition to Saudi Arabia. 
Their liquor laws are strict enough not to allow even the luxury hotels in the country to sell alcohol. 
Last year, Saudi Arabia’s sports minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, in a chat with Sky News, said it would not be possible to lift some of its restrictions, adding ‘the World Cup is for everyone’ and that those who feel uncomfortable about it can avoid travelling.
“If you are against that, and you don’t feel like you’re going to enjoy your time coming, and you can’t respect that rule, then don’t come. It’s as simple as that,” a report in the Indian Express said. 
Besides, he said that hundreds of sporting events have taken place in Saudi and all have been dry events, including Saudi GP, where the drivers sprinkle rose water instead of spraying wine.
“We’ve had over 100 global sporting events that have already taken place in Saudi Arabia. No alcohol was served in those tournaments. We had three million sports fans come in and enjoy those tournaments that have come and come again,” he said in a chat with Reuters last year. 
(With inputs from agencies)

During the 2022 mega event, which Lionel Messi-led Argentina won by beating the defending champions France in the penalty shoot-out, Qatar relaxed its alcohol laws. 



New Delhi, India Saudi Arabia is the second country in the Gulf to get hosting rights for a FIFA World Cup. In a jaw-dropping announcement earlier, Saudi was named the host of the 2034 edition, 12 years after Qatar hosted this sporting spectacle for the first time. However, unlike in Qatar, where the government made a U-turn a few days after announcing no liquor for fans during the event, Saudi has cleared its stance, saying no alcohol will be served during, before or after the tournament. During the 2022 mega event, which Lionel Messi-led Argentina won by beating the defending champions France in the penalty shoot-out, Qatar relaxed its alcohol laws. ALSO READ: Ronaldo wants to run Brazil’s football to help regain its glory as world champions Though they barred everyone from consuming liquor during any game inside the stadium or its premises, the government allowed foreign citizens to purchase it from specific stores and drink in waterholes in select hotels in the capital city of Doha. Per the latest report, Saudi is highly unlikely to relax any laws around it for the showpiece event. “FIFA sources told the Guardian there were no plans to pressure the Saudi government to relax their laws. FIFA has not publicly addressed the matter, but insiders confirmed that there will be no beer sales at matches,” a Guardian report claimed. 'Stay home if you cannot respect rules' Meanwhile, Saudi banned alcohol, including its sale and consumption since 1952, even for foreign citizens, with the violation inviting fines, jail, public flogging or even deportation. Considering the harsh punishments, European and American fans were seemingly concerned and disappointed when FIFA allotted the 2034 edition to Saudi Arabia. Their liquor laws are strict enough not to allow even the luxury hotels in the country to sell alcohol. Last year, Saudi Arabia’s sports minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, in a chat with Sky News, said it would not be possible to lift some of its restrictions, adding ‘the World Cup is for everyone’ and that those who feel uncomfortable about it can avoid travelling. “If you are against that, and you don’t feel like you’re going to enjoy your time coming, and you can’t respect that rule, then don’t come. It’s as simple as that,” a report in the Indian Express said. Besides, he said that hundreds of sporting events have taken place in Saudi and all have been dry events, including Saudi GP, where the drivers sprinkle rose water instead of spraying wine. “We’ve had over 100 global sporting events that have already taken place in Saudi Arabia. No alcohol was served in those tournaments. We had three million sports fans come in and enjoy those tournaments that have come and come again,” he said in a chat with Reuters last year. (With inputs from agencies)

No alcohol for fans during FIFA World Cup 2034 in Saudi Arabia – Report

Copenhagen
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Anti-whaling activist Paul Watson was on Tuesday released from detention after Denmark refused a Japanese extradition request over a 2010 clash with whalers. 
Watson had been held in Greenland since July on a 2012 Japanese warrant accusing him of causing damage to a whaling ship and injuring a whaler.
"It's been five months and this is the first day of freedom, so I'm feeling great," Watson told AFP in a video call shortly after his release from the Danish autonomous territory. 
"My arrest has focused international attention on Japan's continuing illegal whaling operations and their intent to go back to the Southern Ocean," the 74-year-old said. "So, in fact, these five months have been an extension of the campaign."
He added that his detention had also highlighted Denmark's "illegal killing of dolphins and whales in the Faroe Islands", 
Watson, who featured in the reality TV series "Whale Wars", founded Sea Shepherd and the Captain Paul Watson Foundation (CPWF) and is known for radical tactics including confrontations with whaling ships at sea.
Watch | Intelligence Defined By How Your Brain Is Wired: Study

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Jean Tamalet, one of Watson's lawyers, told AFP that "the fight is not over." 
"We will now have to challenge the red notice and the Japanese arrest warrant, to ensure that Captain Paul Watson can once again travel the world in complete peace of mind, and never experience a similar episode again," Tamalet said.
Watson also lamented being on the Interpol Red Notice list, saying it "is for serial killers, war criminals, and major drug traffickers."
<h2>Ready for the worst </h2>
Lamya Essemlali, head of Sea Shepherd France, told AFP that she "still can't believe it."
Speaking alongside Watson following his release, said she "was ready for the worst, getting ready to fight, even to get him out of Japan if we had to."
According to documents viewed by AFP, Denmark's decision was based on the duration of Watson's detention following his arrest and the time it would take to carry out a possible extradition.
The ministry also considered "the fact that the acts for which extradition is sought are more than 14 years ago and the nature of the acts in general."
Contacted by AFP, Japanese foreign ministry officials in charge of the issue were not immediately available for comment.
Tokyo accuses Watson of injuring a Japanese crew member with a stink bomb intended to disrupt the whalers' activities during a Sea Shepherd clash with the Shonan Maru 2 vessel in 2010.
Watson's lawyers have said they have video footage proving the crew member was not on deck when the stink bomb was thrown.
"Japan tried to silence a man whose only crime was to denounce the illegality of the industrial massacre disguised as scientific research," one of his lawyers, Francois Zimeray, told AFP. 
Watson would not get a fair trial in Japan, where "there is a presumption of guilt," he told AFP. "Prosecutors are proud to announce that they have a 99.6 per cent conviction rate."
<h2>Not a comment on Japan </h2>
In September, Watson's lawyers contacted the UN special rapporteur on environmental defenders, claiming that he could be "subjected to inhumane treatment" in Japanese prisons.
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>
Danish Minister of Justice Peter Hummelgaard stressed that the decision was based on the specifics of the case and "does not mean that Denmark shares the concerns that have been raised in certain circles about the Japanese legal system."
"Japan is a democratic state that respects fundamental human rights. There has also been a good and close dialogue with the Japanese authorities," Hummelgaard said.
In a rare public comment on the case, Japan's Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya has said that the extradition request was "an issue of law enforcement at sea rather than a whaling issue".
Watson wants to return to France, where he has been living since July 2023 and where his two young children attend school. He requested French citizenship in October.
Watson's legal woes have attracted support from the public and activists, including prominent British conservationist Jane Goodall, who has urged French President Emmanuel Macron to grant him political asylum.
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.

"It's been five months and this is the first day of freedom, so I'm feeling great," Watson told AFP in a video call shortly after his release from the Danish autonomous territory. 



Copenhagen Anti-whaling activist Paul Watson was on Tuesday released from detention after Denmark refused a Japanese extradition request over a 2010 clash with whalers. Watson had been held in Greenland since July on a 2012 Japanese warrant accusing him of causing damage to a whaling ship and injuring a whaler. "It's been five months and this is the first day of freedom, so I'm feeling great," Watson told AFP in a video call shortly after his release from the Danish autonomous territory. "My arrest has focused international attention on Japan's continuing illegal whaling operations and their intent to go back to the Southern Ocean," the 74-year-old said. "So, in fact, these five months have been an extension of the campaign." He added that his detention had also highlighted Denmark's "illegal killing of dolphins and whales in the Faroe Islands", Watson, who featured in the reality TV series "Whale Wars", founded Sea Shepherd and the Captain Paul Watson Foundation (CPWF) and is known for radical tactics including confrontations with whaling ships at sea. Watch | Intelligence Defined By How Your Brain Is Wired: Study Jean Tamalet, one of Watson's lawyers, told AFP that "the fight is not over." "We will now have to challenge the red notice and the Japanese arrest warrant, to ensure that Captain Paul Watson can once again travel the world in complete peace of mind, and never experience a similar episode again," Tamalet said. Watson also lamented being on the Interpol Red Notice list, saying it "is for serial killers, war criminals, and major drug traffickers." Ready for the worst Lamya Essemlali, head of Sea Shepherd France, told AFP that she "still can't believe it." Speaking alongside Watson following his release, said she "was ready for the worst, getting ready to fight, even to get him out of Japan if we had to." According to documents viewed by AFP, Denmark's decision was based on the duration of Watson's detention following his arrest and the time it would take to carry out a possible extradition. The ministry also considered "the fact that the acts for which extradition is sought are more than 14 years ago and the nature of the acts in general." Contacted by AFP, Japanese foreign ministry officials in charge of the issue were not immediately available for comment. Tokyo accuses Watson of injuring a Japanese crew member with a stink bomb intended to disrupt the whalers' activities during a Sea Shepherd clash with the Shonan Maru 2 vessel in 2010. Watson's lawyers have said they have video footage proving the crew member was not on deck when the stink bomb was thrown. "Japan tried to silence a man whose only crime was to denounce the illegality of the industrial massacre disguised as scientific research," one of his lawyers, Francois Zimeray, told AFP. Watson would not get a fair trial in Japan, where "there is a presumption of guilt," he told AFP. "Prosecutors are proud to announce that they have a 99.6 per cent conviction rate." Not a comment on Japan In September, Watson's lawyers contacted the UN special rapporteur on environmental defenders, claiming that he could be "subjected to inhumane treatment" in Japanese prisons. Also read | 'Madness must be stopped', Zelensky claims Russian troops burning faces of North Korean soldiers killed in war Danish Minister of Justice Peter Hummelgaard stressed that the decision was based on the specifics of the case and "does not mean that Denmark shares the concerns that have been raised in certain circles about the Japanese legal system." "Japan is a democratic state that respects fundamental human rights. There has also been a good and close dialogue with the Japanese authorities," Hummelgaard said. In a rare public comment on the case, Japan's Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya has said that the extradition request was "an issue of law enforcement at sea rather than a whaling issue". Watson wants to return to France, where he has been living since July 2023 and where his two young children attend school. He requested French citizenship in October. Watson's legal woes have attracted support from the public and activists, including prominent British conservationist Jane Goodall, who has urged French President Emmanuel Macron to grant him political asylum. 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.

Whaling activist Watson freed after Denmark rejects extradition request

New Delhi 
In his upcoming biography, Pop Francis claimed that he escaped two attempts on his life during his visit to Iran in 2021. The book titled "Hope" will be released next month. 
Russian general Igor Kirillov was killed on Tuesday (Dec 17). He was assassinated in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow. He was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops. 
In news from other parts of the world, British-Pakistani girl Sara Sharif's father and her stepmother have been sentenced to life for murdering the 10-year-old. In 2023, her body was discovered in Surrey after she was physically assaulted by her father, stepmother, and uncle. 
Click on the links to read more 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-says-he-escaped-two-attempts-on-his-life-during-2021-iraq-visit-784750https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-says-he-escaped-two-attempts-on-his-life-during-2021-iraq-visit-784750">Pope Francis says he escaped two attempts on his life during 2021 Iraq visit</a>
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Pope Francis has said that he escaped two attempts on his life during his historic visit to Iraq in 2021. He made this claim in his upcoming autobiography, which will be released next month.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-was-igor-kirillov-russias-chemical-weapons-chief-and-a-mouthpiece-for-exposing-western-crimes-784708">Who was Igor Kirillov? Russia's chemical weapons chief</a>
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Russian general Igor Kirillov, who was killed in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow, was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops. Lieutenant General Kirillov was assassinated by Ukraine's SBU intelligence service on Tuesday (Dec 17), according to a report by Reuters.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sara-sharif-murder-sadist-father-and-stepmother-imprisoned-for-life-for-brutally-killing-her-784733">Sara Sharif murder: 'Sadist' father and stepmother imprisoned for life</a>
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British-Pakistani girl Sara Sharif's father, Urfan Sharif, and stepmother Beinash Batool have been jailed for life for murdering their 10-year-old daughter.  
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-changed-the-constitution-77-times-in-55-years-says-amit-shah-in-parliament-784738">Amit Shah in Parliament: Congress changed Constitution 77 times in 55 years</a>
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Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday during a debate marking 75 years since the adoption of the Constitution and used the occasion to rip into the Congress party and its leadership over the imposition of emergency and for making amendments in the statute for 'personal' gains.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-says-resistance-not-over-after-assad-ouster-784754">Iran's Khamenei says 'resistance' not over after Assad ouster</a>
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Iran's supreme leader said Tuesday that Israel and the United States were "completely wrong" to imagine the Tehran-backed axis of resistance had collapsed with the ouster of Syria's longtime strongman.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-sending-ps35-million-aid-to-help-ukrainians-survive-winter-784758">UK sending £35 million aid to help Ukrainians survive winter</a>
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The British government Tuesday announced £35 million ($44 million) in aid to repair Ukraine's energy grid battered by Russian strikes and help Ukrainians confront freezing winter weather.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-executes-ex-official-who-was-convicted-in-nations-largest-ever-corruption-case-784698">China executes ex-official convicted in nation's largest-ever corruption case</a>
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China on Tuesday (Dec 17) executed a former official who was convicted in the country's largest-ever corruption case. According to a report by the state-run Xinhua news agency, the death sentence was awarded to Li Jianping, a former official in the north Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-unaware-of-everything-happening-says-hannah-kobayashi-after-her-return-784712">Missing Hawaii woman case: Was unaware of media frenzy, says Hannah Kobayashi after her return</a>
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Hannah Kobayashi, the missing Hawaii woman found recently, said she was "unaware of everything" that happened in the media and her family. After returning to the United States from Mexico, Hannah said in a statement handed on Tuesday (Dec 17) by her aunt that she is "still processing it all" and urged people to respect her family during “this challenging time". 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-gabba-test-australia-vs-india-weather-report-of-final-day-in-brisbane-784701">BGT, Gabba Test, Australia vs India: Weather report of final day in Brisbane</a>
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Weather conditions and 98 overs on the final day will decide the fate of the third BGT Test between Australia and India at the Gabba. With rain playing spoilsport for the fourth straight day in Brisbane, overcast conditions are predicted for the fifth day too. 
<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>
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Actor Allu Arjun’s bail might get cut short soon as Telangana police are preparing to challenge it and take the matter to the Supreme Court.

Here are the top 10 news stories from across the world.



New Delhi In his upcoming biography, Pop Francis claimed that he escaped two attempts on his life during his visit to Iran in 2021. The book titled "Hope" will be released next month. Russian general Igor Kirillov was killed on Tuesday (Dec 17). He was assassinated in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow. He was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops. In news from other parts of the world, British-Pakistani girl Sara Sharif's father and her stepmother have been sentenced to life for murdering the 10-year-old. In 2023, her body was discovered in Surrey after she was physically assaulted by her father, stepmother, and uncle. Click on the links to read more Pope Francis says he escaped two attempts on his life during 2021 Iraq visit Pope Francis has said that he escaped two attempts on his life during his historic visit to Iraq in 2021. He made this claim in his upcoming autobiography, which will be released next month. Who was Igor Kirillov? Russia's chemical weapons chief Russian general Igor Kirillov, who was killed in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow, was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops. Lieutenant General Kirillov was assassinated by Ukraine's SBU intelligence service on Tuesday (Dec 17), according to a report by Reuters. Sara Sharif murder: 'Sadist' father and stepmother imprisoned for life British-Pakistani girl Sara Sharif's father, Urfan Sharif, and stepmother Beinash Batool have been jailed for life for murdering their 10-year-old daughter. Amit Shah in Parliament: Congress changed Constitution 77 times in 55 years Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday during a debate marking 75 years since the adoption of the Constitution and used the occasion to rip into the Congress party and its leadership over the imposition of emergency and for making amendments in the statute for 'personal' gains. Iran's Khamenei says 'resistance' not over after Assad ouster Iran's supreme leader said Tuesday that Israel and the United States were "completely wrong" to imagine the Tehran-backed axis of resistance had collapsed with the ouster of Syria's longtime strongman. UK sending £35 million aid to help Ukrainians survive winter The British government Tuesday announced £35 million ($44 million) in aid to repair Ukraine's energy grid battered by Russian strikes and help Ukrainians confront freezing winter weather. China executes ex-official convicted in nation's largest-ever corruption case China on Tuesday (Dec 17) executed a former official who was convicted in the country's largest-ever corruption case. According to a report by the state-run Xinhua news agency, the death sentence was awarded to Li Jianping, a former official in the north Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. Missing Hawaii woman case: Was unaware of media frenzy, says Hannah Kobayashi after her return Hannah Kobayashi, the missing Hawaii woman found recently, said she was "unaware of everything" that happened in the media and her family. After returning to the United States from Mexico, Hannah said in a statement handed on Tuesday (Dec 17) by her aunt that she is "still processing it all" and urged people to respect her family during “this challenging time". BGT, Gabba Test, Australia vs India: Weather report of final day in Brisbane Weather conditions and 98 overs on the final day will decide the fate of the third BGT Test between Australia and India at the Gabba. With rain playing spoilsport for the fourth straight day in Brisbane, overcast conditions are predicted for the fifth day too. Pushpa 2 stampede case: Telangana police likely to challenge Allu Arjun’s bail Actor Allu Arjun’s bail might get cut short soon as Telangana police are preparing to challenge it and take the matter to the Supreme Court.

Top 10 world news: Pope almost assassinated in 2021; Ukraine killed Russian general, and more

Brasília, Brazil
Brazil legend Ronaldo has confirmed he wants to become president of the country's football governing body to address a "deep crisis" the sport is facing nationally.
"I have hundreds of motivations, but I think the biggest of them is really to restore international respect to Brazilian football," he said in an interview on Monday with the Globoesporte website.
ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/super-league-promoters-reveal-approaching-fifa-uefa-for-official-recognition-784749">Super League promoters reveal approaching FIFA, UEFA for official recognition</a>
Ronaldo said he wanted to be an "alternative for significant change" as candidate for the job of running the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).
"O Fenomeno" ("The Phenomenon"), as the 48-year-old became known over the course of his 1993-2011 career, said he wants to use the CBF presidency to help Brazil's national team to regain its glory as five-time world champions.
"The Selecao has to recover its prestige. I'll do everything so that the players understand the historic importance of playing for the national team," he said.
Ronaldo scored both goals when Brazil beat Germany in the 2002 World Cup final in Japan, and was twice winner of the Ballon d'Or.
To lodge his CBF candidacy, he needs the support of Brazilian regional clubs and federations.
To get those, he promised to travel "all around Brazil" and share the "incredible plans" he has for the sport.
The date of the next CBF election has not yet been set, but should happen between March 2025 and March 2026, according to Brazilian media.
<h2>'Much deeper problem'</h2>
Current CBF chief Ednaldo Rodrigues has been criticized for slotting in temporary coaches for the national team after Tite's 2022 exit while waiting for Carlo Ancelotti to arrive -- something that did not happen when the Italian decided late last year to extend his contract as manager of Real Madrid.
Currently coached by Dorival Junior, the Selecao are fifth in South America qualifying for the 2026 World Cup tournament, seven points behind leaders Argentina.
"My problem is not Ednaldo. The problem is much deeper. My goal is to bring the people closer to the Selecao. Today, the people are indifferent when the Selecao plays," Ronaldo told Globoesporte. "I am an alternative of significant change for Brazilian football, which is going through a deep crisis," he said.
Ronaldo, a former star for Barcelona, Inter Milan and Real Madrid, already has leadership experience.
In 2018, he took majority control of Spain's Real Valladolid, and in 2021 did the same for Cruzeiro, the Brazilian club where he started his career.
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 sold his Cruzeiro stake in April this year.
In his interview, Ronaldo said he was in talks to "very soon" sell his Valladolid stake to avoid "any obstacle" to his CBF candidacy.

Ronaldo said he wanted to be an "alternative for significant change" as candidate for the job of running the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).



Brasília, Brazil Brazil legend Ronaldo has confirmed he wants to become president of the country's football governing body to address a "deep crisis" the sport is facing nationally. "I have hundreds of motivations, but I think the biggest of them is really to restore international respect to Brazilian football," he said in an interview on Monday with the Globoesporte website. ALSO READ: Super League promoters reveal approaching FIFA, UEFA for official recognition Ronaldo said he wanted to be an "alternative for significant change" as candidate for the job of running the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF). "O Fenomeno" ("The Phenomenon"), as the 48-year-old became known over the course of his 1993-2011 career, said he wants to use the CBF presidency to help Brazil's national team to regain its glory as five-time world champions. "The Selecao has to recover its prestige. I'll do everything so that the players understand the historic importance of playing for the national team," he said. Ronaldo scored both goals when Brazil beat Germany in the 2002 World Cup final in Japan, and was twice winner of the Ballon d'Or. To lodge his CBF candidacy, he needs the support of Brazilian regional clubs and federations. To get those, he promised to travel "all around Brazil" and share the "incredible plans" he has for the sport. The date of the next CBF election has not yet been set, but should happen between March 2025 and March 2026, according to Brazilian media. 'Much deeper problem' Current CBF chief Ednaldo Rodrigues has been criticized for slotting in temporary coaches for the national team after Tite's 2022 exit while waiting for Carlo Ancelotti to arrive -- something that did not happen when the Italian decided late last year to extend his contract as manager of Real Madrid. Currently coached by Dorival Junior, the Selecao are fifth in South America qualifying for the 2026 World Cup tournament, seven points behind leaders Argentina. "My problem is not Ednaldo. The problem is much deeper. My goal is to bring the people closer to the Selecao. Today, the people are indifferent when the Selecao plays," Ronaldo told Globoesporte. "I am an alternative of significant change for Brazilian football, which is going through a deep crisis," he said. Ronaldo, a former star for Barcelona, Inter Milan and Real Madrid, already has leadership experience. In 2018, he took majority control of Spain's Real Valladolid, and in 2021 did the same for Cruzeiro, the Brazilian club where he started his career. 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 sold his Cruzeiro stake in April this year. In his interview, Ronaldo said he was in talks to "very soon" sell his Valladolid stake to avoid "any obstacle" to his CBF candidacy.

Ronaldo wants to run Brazil’s football to help regain its glory as world champions

Paris, France 
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The dismal quality of housing across Mayotte has compounded the devastating impact of Cyclone Chido on the poverty-stricken French Indian Ocean territory where hundreds, or maybe thousands, are feared dead.
Before the storm hit, around a third of the island's population was living in iron-sheeted huts that never stood a chance against the powerful cyclone.
By the time it was gone, all of Mayotte's shantytowns were flattened, burying lives—and livelihoods—beneath them.
"We fear there will be a considerable number of deaths," a French government official told AFP. "Several hundred, or maybe several thousand."
Mayotte is the poorest part of France, of which it is an integral part. 
Recent official data on the state of housing in Mayotte are hard to come by, but 2017 data published by the National Statistics Institute said 40 per cent of the island's homes are built with metal sheets, and around a third have no access to running water.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyclone-chido-devastates-frances-mayotte-death-toll-could-reach-thousands-784261">Cyclone Chido devastates France's Mayotte: Death toll could reach thousands</a>
<h2>Flimsy </h2>
"They're made of wood, corrugated iron, and situated on hills, on beaten earth," said Florent Vallee, who runs the French Red Cross branch's emergency operations. 
"You can easily imagine the wind barreling into them and the rain creating mudslides."
Over the decades, French authorities have tried to improve housing conditions for the island's population which numbers 320,000 according to official data but is much greater because of an influx of undocumented migrants who do not show up in government statistics.
As recently as the late 1970s, modern building materials were virtually unknown in Mayotte, said Megane Aussedat, a sociologist and expert on informal housing on the island.
Despite government programmes to replace precarious shelters with solid housing, the number of available homes is still inadequate compared to the size of the population and the migration influx.
They are also out of reach for many people in Mayotte, where the median monthly income is 260 euros ($273), compared with around 2,600 euros pretax on the French mainland.
Subsidised housing projects have also been slow to materialise, said Aussedat.
However, since 2018, the authorities have been allowed to raze substandard housing, provided they immediately offered inhabitants new homes.
Such clearing operations, involving massive police contingents, are sometimes thought to have the secondary objective of flushing out undocumented migrants, but Aussedat observed that telling illegals from legal can be a challenge.
"There is almost no family in Mayotte," she said, "where everybody's status is either documented or undocumented."
<h2>Comoros influx </h2>
Mayotte's immigration issue is almost entirely due to an influx from the Comoros, an archipelago whose closest shores are just 70 kilometers (44 miles) from Mayotte, and that declared independence in the 1970s while Mayotte opted to remain French.
As poor as Mayotte is by French standards, the Comoros are even poorer, tempting many there into a perilous journey across the water in search of a better life in Mayotte.
They often end up living in makeshift areas consisting mostly of so-called "bangas"—small" houses made of cloth and thatch.
When Chido hit, many refused to leave their homes, taking their chances with the cyclone  rather than face the danger of their homes being looted or being picked up by the authorities.
Vallee said emergency services had rescued "entire families, and also a lot of children who were left alone."
Sanitary conditions, already precarious, have worsened since, mostly because of patchy access to clean water that could prompt another cholera outbreak like the one in the spring of 2024 that killed seven people, said Jean-Francois Coty, president of the Medecins du Monde NGO.
<h2>'Brakes on healthcare access' </h2>
Undocumented migrants' "fear of moving is putting the brakes on healthcare access," he said.
A French government scheme allowing undocumented people access to state healthcare is not available in Mayotte.
Coty said he hoped that French officials would pause forced deportations so immigrants can seek help without fear of expulsion.
"This is a time for humanitarian aid, not for a crackdown," 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.

Recent official data on the state of housing in Mayotte are hard to come by, but 2017 data published by the National Statistics Institute said 40 per cent of the island's homes are built with metal sheets, and around a third have no access to running water.



Paris, France The dismal quality of housing across Mayotte has compounded the devastating impact of Cyclone Chido on the poverty-stricken French Indian Ocean territory where hundreds, or maybe thousands, are feared dead. Before the storm hit, around a third of the island's population was living in iron-sheeted huts that never stood a chance against the powerful cyclone. By the time it was gone, all of Mayotte's shantytowns were flattened, burying lives—and livelihoods—beneath them. "We fear there will be a considerable number of deaths," a French government official told AFP. "Several hundred, or maybe several thousand." Mayotte is the poorest part of France, of which it is an integral part. Recent official data on the state of housing in Mayotte are hard to come by, but 2017 data published by the National Statistics Institute said 40 per cent of the island's homes are built with metal sheets, and around a third have no access to running water. Also Read: Cyclone Chido devastates France's Mayotte: Death toll could reach thousands Flimsy "They're made of wood, corrugated iron, and situated on hills, on beaten earth," said Florent Vallee, who runs the French Red Cross branch's emergency operations. "You can easily imagine the wind barreling into them and the rain creating mudslides." Over the decades, French authorities have tried to improve housing conditions for the island's population which numbers 320,000 according to official data but is much greater because of an influx of undocumented migrants who do not show up in government statistics. As recently as the late 1970s, modern building materials were virtually unknown in Mayotte, said Megane Aussedat, a sociologist and expert on informal housing on the island. Despite government programmes to replace precarious shelters with solid housing, the number of available homes is still inadequate compared to the size of the population and the migration influx. They are also out of reach for many people in Mayotte, where the median monthly income is 260 euros ($273), compared with around 2,600 euros pretax on the French mainland. Subsidised housing projects have also been slow to materialise, said Aussedat. However, since 2018, the authorities have been allowed to raze substandard housing, provided they immediately offered inhabitants new homes. Such clearing operations, involving massive police contingents, are sometimes thought to have the secondary objective of flushing out undocumented migrants, but Aussedat observed that telling illegals from legal can be a challenge. "There is almost no family in Mayotte," she said, "where everybody's status is either documented or undocumented." Comoros influx Mayotte's immigration issue is almost entirely due to an influx from the Comoros, an archipelago whose closest shores are just 70 kilometers (44 miles) from Mayotte, and that declared independence in the 1970s while Mayotte opted to remain French. As poor as Mayotte is by French standards, the Comoros are even poorer, tempting many there into a perilous journey across the water in search of a better life in Mayotte. They often end up living in makeshift areas consisting mostly of so-called "bangas"—small" houses made of cloth and thatch. When Chido hit, many refused to leave their homes, taking their chances with the cyclone rather than face the danger of their homes being looted or being picked up by the authorities. Vallee said emergency services had rescued "entire families, and also a lot of children who were left alone." Sanitary conditions, already precarious, have worsened since, mostly because of patchy access to clean water that could prompt another cholera outbreak like the one in the spring of 2024 that killed seven people, said Jean-Francois Coty, president of the Medecins du Monde NGO. 'Brakes on healthcare access' Undocumented migrants' "fear of moving is putting the brakes on healthcare access," he said. A French government scheme allowing undocumented people access to state healthcare is not available in Mayotte. Coty said he hoped that French officials would pause forced deportations so immigrants can seek help without fear of expulsion. "This is a time for humanitarian aid, not for a crackdown," 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.

How ramshackle housing left Mayotte exposed to Cyclone Chido's fury

Tehran 
Iran's supreme leader said Tuesday that Israel and the United States were "completely wrong" to imagine the Tehran-backed axis of resistance had collapsed with the ouster of Syria's longtime strongman.
"With the developments in Syria and the crimes the Zionist regime is committing and the crimes that America is committing, and the help that some others are giving to them, they thought that the resistance was over," Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in a televised speech. 
Watch | How Coffee Promotes Good Bacteria?
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"They are completely wrong," he added. 
On December 8, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad fled the country as rebel forces entered the capital Damascus after a lightning offensive. 
Fellow Axis members Hamas and Hezbollah have also suffered heavy losses since the Palestinian militant group attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, sparking war in Gaza and later in Lebanon.
Since Assad's fall, Iran has sought to distance itself from the ousted leader, instead emphasising the history of friendship between the two countries. Khamenei has also insisted that Assad's overthrow will not weaken Iran.
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"The Zionist regime imagines it can encircle and eradicate the Hezbollah forces through Syria, but the one who will be eradicated is Israel," Khamenei said on Tuesday.
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.

Fellow Axis members Hamas and Hezbollah have also suffered heavy losses since the Palestinian militant group attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, sparking war in Gaza and later in Lebanon.



Tehran Iran's supreme leader said Tuesday that Israel and the United States were "completely wrong" to imagine the Tehran-backed axis of resistance had collapsed with the ouster of Syria's longtime strongman. "With the developments in Syria and the crimes the Zionist regime is committing and the crimes that America is committing, and the help that some others are giving to them, they thought that the resistance was over," Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in a televised speech. Watch | How Coffee Promotes Good Bacteria? "They are completely wrong," he added. On December 8, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad fled the country as rebel forces entered the capital Damascus after a lightning offensive. Fellow Axis members Hamas and Hezbollah have also suffered heavy losses since the Palestinian militant group attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, sparking war in Gaza and later in Lebanon. Since Assad's fall, Iran has sought to distance itself from the ousted leader, instead emphasising the history of friendship between the two countries. Khamenei has also insisted that Assad's overthrow will not weaken Iran. Also read | Israel arrests Jerusalem man for spying on behalf of Iran "The Zionist regime imagines it can encircle and eradicate the Hezbollah forces through Syria, but the one who will be eradicated is Israel," Khamenei said on Tuesday. 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.

Iran's Khamenei says 'resistance' not over after Assad ouster

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