Chinese workers at the largest iPhone factory in Zhengzhou fled the facility to escape a lockdown.

Gravitas: Chinese workers jump fences to escape lockdown

Are US-China relations thawing? Reports indicate officials on both sides are 'actively working' to arrange a face-to-face meeting between Joe Biden & Xi Jinping. The bilateral could take place along the sidelines of the G20 summit next month.

Gravitas: Are US-China relations thawing?

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: Russia halts grain deal | Bridge collapse in India: Over 130 dead

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<p>Most people love kids. However, most people hate screaming kids in public places. A restaurant in Singapore certainly falls in the latter category and is using a rather unconventional method to ensure that people keep their kids quiet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reportedly, Angie’s Oyster Bar &amp; Grill recently informed its customers that it will be charging a $7 'Screaming children surcharge' from parents if their wards scream or show uncontrolled behaviour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We would like to inform you that we do not have any baby chair available as we are not a kid-friendly restaurant...All children are welcomed to dine at Angie's. However, screaming/uncontrolled children disturbing other guests will NOT be tolerated. Charger will apply $10," read the notification screenshot that went viral on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.foodbeast.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/image-e1663318367459.jpeg" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/richard-branson-declines-invitation-to-attend-debate-on-death-penalty-in-singapore-529895" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Richard Branson declines invitation to attend debate on death penalty in Singapore</strong></a></p>

<p>As soon as the restaurant posted the notification, its google review section was inundated with negative reviews. Some netizens believe the policy was discriminatory while others said it reeked of elitism.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-singapores-slippery-hungry-and-angry-otters-528924"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: Singapore's slippery, hungry and angry Otters</strong></a></p>

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<p>After receiving criticism from the public, the restaurant released a statement and said it had no choice but to implement the rule after receiving complaints from the consumers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Over the last few months, we've received an increasing number of complaints of children running around unattended or disturbing other tables during the service period," read the statement.</p>

<p>"Because of these experiences, we felt we had no choice but to impose a 'penalty' to address such unfortunate situations," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-cattle-fart-tax-nz-authorities-suggest-lollipop-tax-on-halloween-face-instant-backlash-530091" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: After 'cattle fart' tax, NZ authorities suggest Halloween 'lollipop tax'. Face instant backlash</strong></a></p>

<p>The restaurant signed off by saying that the policy, "does not apply to 99 per cent" of its&nbsp;guests, "but only to the ones who fail to respect the space and experience of others."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Most people love kids. However, most people hate screaming kids in public places. A restaurant in Singapore certainly falls in the latter category and is using a rather unconventional method to ensure that people keep their kids quiet.

Most people love kids. However, most people hate screaming kids in public places. A restaurant in Singapore certainly falls in the latter category and is using a rather unconventional method to ensure that people keep their kids quiet. Reportedly, Angie’s Oyster Bar & Grill recently informed its customers that it will be charging a $7 'Screaming children surcharge' from parents if their wards scream or show uncontrolled behaviour. "We would like to inform you that we do not have any baby chair available as we are not a kid-friendly restaurant...All children are welcomed to dine at Angie's. However, screaming/uncontrolled children disturbing other guests will NOT be tolerated. Charger will apply $10," read the notification screenshot that went viral on social media. Read more: Richard Branson declines invitation to attend debate on death penalty in Singapore As soon as the restaurant posted the notification, its google review section was inundated with negative reviews. Some netizens believe the policy was discriminatory while others said it reeked of elitism. WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Singapore's slippery, hungry and angry Otters × After receiving criticism from the public, the restaurant released a statement and said it had no choice but to implement the rule after receiving complaints from the consumers. "Over the last few months, we've received an increasing number of complaints of children running around unattended or disturbing other tables during the service period," read the statement. "Because of these experiences, we felt we had no choice but to impose a 'penalty' to address such unfortunate situations," it added. Read more: After 'cattle fart' tax, NZ authorities suggest Halloween 'lollipop tax'. Face instant backlash The restaurant signed off by saying that the policy, "does not apply to 99 per cent" of its guests, "but only to the ones who fail to respect the space and experience of others." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pay a screaming surcharge if your kid is noisy, says a Singapore restaurant

Deepening its scrutiny of Chinese firms in the country, India has now launched an investigation into the MG Motors accounts. Now the probe by India's Ministry of Corporate Affairs started after analysis of the company's financial statements.

India probes MG Motor over financial irregularities, scrutiny indicates suspicious transactions

Israelis are queuing up for the fifth time in four years. Every election has unmasked how complex politics has become in Israel. WION's correspondent Jodie Cohen decodes the four key players for you.

Israel Elections: Defence Minister Benny Gantz could be kingmaker

Israelis are queuing up for the fifth time in four years. Every election has unmasked how complex politics has become in Israel.

Israel Elections 2022: Netanyahu's Likud party expected to win most seats again

<p>Japan on Tuesday announced that it will ask businesses and households to conserve energy "as much as possible" during the winter.</p>

<p>As per the Jiji Press, this will be applicable from December of this year to March of next year; however, no specific target has been set in numbers.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | Japan's sushi culture at risk?</strong></p>

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<p>While the reserve rate, or the margin of supply capacity over demand, is anticipated to be over the minimum needed level of 3 per cent nationally, the government has recognised the need to be alert regarding power supply this winter.</p>

<p>The nation's grid operator's most recent prediction places the power reserve ratio, at 4.1 per cent in&nbsp;Tokyo and Tohoku areas for&nbsp;January.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opec-raised-long-term-world-oil-demand-forecast-despite-energy-transition-530046" hreflang="en">OPEC raises long-term world oil demand forecast despite energy transition</a></strong></p>

<p>At a press conference Yasutoshi Nishimura, the industry minister called for cooperation from businesses and households.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We need to act to ensure that stable electricity supply is not disrupted," he said.</p>

<p>Following a similar plea this summer, it is the Japanese government's first statewide call for electricity conservation in the winter since 2015.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-issues-first-energy-shortage-warning-amid-soaring-temperatures-492553">Japan issues first 'energy shortage warning' amid soaring temperatures</a></strong></p>

<p>To stay warm while saving electricity, the government has advised citizens to turn off extra lights and put on more layers of clothing, even when they are inside.</p>

<p>The request comes as further pressure is expected on an already stretched grid and amid fears of a possible suspension of Russian liquefied natural gas flows.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Bloomberg, the resource-scarce country lacks the capacity to produce electricity, and the high cost of liquefied natural gas mixed with the depreciating yen has made fuel acquisition difficult.</p>

<p>Reportedly, the largest energy producer in the nation, Jera Co., will also restart several of its thermal plant units to assist in alleviating the anticipated shortage this winter.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Japan on Tuesday announced that it will ask businesses and households to conserve energy "as much as possible" during the winter. As per the Jiji Press, this will be applicable from December of this year to March of next year; however, no specific target has been set in numbers.

Japan on Tuesday announced that it will ask businesses and households to conserve energy "as much as possible" during the winter. As per the Jiji Press, this will be applicable from December of this year to March of next year; however, no specific target has been set in numbers. Watch | WION Fineprint | Japan's sushi culture at risk? While the reserve rate, or the margin of supply capacity over demand, is anticipated to be over the minimum needed level of 3 per cent nationally, the government has recognised the need to be alert regarding power supply this winter. The nation's grid operator's most recent prediction places the power reserve ratio, at 4.1 per cent in Tokyo and Tohoku areas for January. Also read | OPEC raises long-term world oil demand forecast despite energy transition At a press conference Yasutoshi Nishimura, the industry minister called for cooperation from businesses and households. "We need to act to ensure that stable electricity supply is not disrupted," he said. Following a similar plea this summer, it is the Japanese government's first statewide call for electricity conservation in the winter since 2015. Also read | Japan issues first 'energy shortage warning' amid soaring temperatures To stay warm while saving electricity, the government has advised citizens to turn off extra lights and put on more layers of clothing, even when they are inside. The request comes as further pressure is expected on an already stretched grid and amid fears of a possible suspension of Russian liquefied natural gas flows. According to Bloomberg, the resource-scarce country lacks the capacity to produce electricity, and the high cost of liquefied natural gas mixed with the depreciating yen has made fuel acquisition difficult. Reportedly, the largest energy producer in the nation, Jera Co., will also restart several of its thermal plant units to assist in alleviating the anticipated shortage this winter. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Faced with a possible energy shortage this winter, Japan advises people to wear warm clothes indoors

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<p>Jamshed J Irani, popularly known as India's 'Steel Man' passed away on Monday night, aged 85 at TMH (Tata Hospital) in the eastern Indian city of Jamshedpur. Tata Steel, with whom Irani had an association of more than four decades informed about his passing.</p>

<p>"We are deeply saddened at the demise of Padma Bhushan Dr Jamshed J Irani, fondly known as the Steel Man of India. Tata Steel family offers its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones," read the statement.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We are deeply saddened at the demise of Padma Bhushan Dr. Jamshed J Irani, fondly known as the Steel Man of India. Tata Steel family offers its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. <a href="https://t.co/gGIg9JgGMS">pic.twitter.com/gGIg9JgGMS</a></p>
— Tata Steel (@TataSteelLtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/TataSteelLtd/status/1587153205418491904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Irani is survived by his wife Daisy and three children Zubin, Niloufer, and Tanaaz.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The tall business leader was born in Nagpur in 1936 to Jiji Irani and Khorshed Irani. A prodigy from the beginning, Irani went on to complete his BSc from Science College in the district and later completed his MSc in Geology from Nagpur University in 1958.</p>

<p>Irani's first association with the Tata group came when he went to the University of Sheffield as a Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata scholar. In the UK, he secured a Master's and PhD in Metallurgy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-tata-steel-seeks-support-from-uk-government-525655" target="_blank">WATCH | </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/steel-man-of-india-jamshed-irani-dies-at-86-530187">'Steel man of India' Jamshed Irani dies at 86</a></strong></p>

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<p>His first professional work experience was joining the British Iron and Steel Research Association in 1963. However, being a patriot at heart, Irani always wanted to do something for the country and contribute to its growth.</p>

<p>Thus, he left his job in Sheffield and returned to India to join The Tata Iron and Steel Company which is now more colloquially known as Tata Steel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tata-motors-launches-indias-cheapest-electric-vehicle-priced-at-103k-dollars-520554" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Tata Motors launches India's cheapest electric vehicle priced at $10,370</strong></a></p>

<p>Starting as Assistant to the Director in charge of Research and Development in 1968, Irani slowly climbed the Tata Steel hierarchy ladder.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 1978, his first big breakthrough came when he was promoted to the general superintendent role. A year later, he became the general manager and within six years, the President of the company.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prior to becoming the president, Irani joined the Tata Steel board in 1981 and remained there till 2011 when he retired.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyrus-mistry-former-tata-sons-chairman-dies-in-a-car-accident-512840"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Cyrus Mistry, former Tata Sons chairman, dies in a car accident</strong></a></p>

<p>For his exemplary services, Irani was awarded Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian award in 2007. He also received an honorary knighthood from the Late Queen Elizabeth II in 1997.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Jamshed J Irani, popularly known as India's 'Steel Man' passed away on Monday night, aged 85 at TMH (Tata Hospital) in the eastern Indian city of Jamshedpur. Tata Steel, with whom Irani had an association of more than four decades informed about his passing.

Jamshed J Irani, popularly known as India's 'Steel Man' passed away on Monday night, aged 85 at TMH (Tata Hospital) in the eastern Indian city of Jamshedpur. Tata Steel, with whom Irani had an association of more than four decades informed about his passing. "We are deeply saddened at the demise of Padma Bhushan Dr Jamshed J Irani, fondly known as the Steel Man of India. Tata Steel family offers its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones," read the statement. We are deeply saddened at the demise of Padma Bhushan Dr. Jamshed J Irani, fondly known as the Steel Man of India. Tata Steel family offers its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/gGIg9JgGMS — Tata Steel (@TataSteelLtd) October 31, 2022 × Irani is survived by his wife Daisy and three children Zubin, Niloufer, and Tanaaz. The tall business leader was born in Nagpur in 1936 to Jiji Irani and Khorshed Irani. A prodigy from the beginning, Irani went on to complete his BSc from Science College in the district and later completed his MSc in Geology from Nagpur University in 1958. Irani's first association with the Tata group came when he went to the University of Sheffield as a Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata scholar. In the UK, he secured a Master's and PhD in Metallurgy. WATCH | 'Steel man of India' Jamshed Irani dies at 86 × His first professional work experience was joining the British Iron and Steel Research Association in 1963. However, being a patriot at heart, Irani always wanted to do something for the country and contribute to its growth. Thus, he left his job in Sheffield and returned to India to join The Tata Iron and Steel Company which is now more colloquially known as Tata Steel. Read more: Tata Motors launches India's cheapest electric vehicle priced at $10,370 Starting as Assistant to the Director in charge of Research and Development in 1968, Irani slowly climbed the Tata Steel hierarchy ladder. In 1978, his first big breakthrough came when he was promoted to the general superintendent role. A year later, he became the general manager and within six years, the President of the company. Prior to becoming the president, Irani joined the Tata Steel board in 1981 and remained there till 2011 when he retired. Read more: Cyrus Mistry, former Tata Sons chairman, dies in a car accident For his exemplary services, Irani was awarded Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian award in 2007. He also received an honorary knighthood from the Late Queen Elizabeth II in 1997. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Jamshed J Irani, the 'Steel man of India' and Padma Bhushan awardee passes away at 85

<p>According to official broadcaster CCTV, Chinese President Xi Jinping advised the visiting head of Vietnam's ruling Communist Party on Monday that both nations and parties should "never let anyone interfere" with their development.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The confident warning against foreign meddling came at a time when relations between China and the West were tense, particularly with the United States over Taiwan, the situation in the Ukraine, trade, and other matters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Unmasked, Xi and Nguyen Phu Trong shook hands and hugged before participating in a televised welcoming ceremony in Beijing's Great Hall of the People. This unusually close encounter between Xi and another leader occurred despite China's continued adherence to Covid lockdowns.</p>

<p>Since Xi was elected to a record-breaking third term as General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party at its 20th party conference this month, Trong's was the first visit by a foreign head of state.</p>

<p>"The development of the cause of human progress is a long and tortuous process, and the development of socialist countries faces a very complicated international environment and serious risks and challenges," Xi said, according to CCTV.</p>

<p>Also &nbsp;Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opec-raised-long-term-world-oil-demand-forecast-despite-energy-transition-530046">OPEC raised long-term world oil demand forecast despite energy transition</a></p>

<p>"The Chinese and Vietnamese parties should persist in working for the happiness of the people and the progress of mankind, push forward socialist modernization with all their might, and never let anyone interfere with our progress or let any force shake the institutional foundation of our development," Xi added, according to CCTV.</p>

<p>Trong's visit was a demonstration of Communist cohesion. Trong is more powerful than either the president or prime minister of Vietnam.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Along with Cuba, Laos, and North Korea, Vietnam and China are among the world's final five communist-run nations.</p>

<p><em>(with inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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According to official broadcaster CCTV, Chinese President Xi Jinping advised the visiting head of Vietnam's ruling Communist Party on Monday that both nations and parties should "never let anyone interfere" with their development.

According to official broadcaster CCTV, Chinese President Xi Jinping advised the visiting head of Vietnam's ruling Communist Party on Monday that both nations and parties should "never let anyone interfere" with their development. The confident warning against foreign meddling came at a time when relations between China and the West were tense, particularly with the United States over Taiwan, the situation in the Ukraine, trade, and other matters. Unmasked, Xi and Nguyen Phu Trong shook hands and hugged before participating in a televised welcoming ceremony in Beijing's Great Hall of the People. This unusually close encounter between Xi and another leader occurred despite China's continued adherence to Covid lockdowns. Since Xi was elected to a record-breaking third term as General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party at its 20th party conference this month, Trong's was the first visit by a foreign head of state. "The development of the cause of human progress is a long and tortuous process, and the development of socialist countries faces a very complicated international environment and serious risks and challenges," Xi said, according to CCTV. Also Read: OPEC raised long-term world oil demand forecast despite energy transition "The Chinese and Vietnamese parties should persist in working for the happiness of the people and the progress of mankind, push forward socialist modernization with all their might, and never let anyone interfere with our progress or let any force shake the institutional foundation of our development," Xi added, according to CCTV. Trong's visit was a demonstration of Communist cohesion. Trong is more powerful than either the president or prime minister of Vietnam. Along with Cuba, Laos, and North Korea, Vietnam and China are among the world's final five communist-run nations. (with inputs from agencies)

China's Xi asks communist Vietnam to 'never let anyone interfere'

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidYmsHX3N7qMoh" /><meta charset="utf-8" />After appearing in Singapore for the first time, the Omicron sub-lineage XBB of COVID-19 has found its way to the Indian public. The virus strain is known for its highly contagious nature but an expert panel has observed that Indian patients have reported mild illness and no increase in severity, even after contracting it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>INSACOG, or Indian SARS-CoV-2 Consortium on Genomics, a group of 54 laboratories across the country that monitor the different iterations of the virus made the observations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Modest increase in the spread of XBB in Singapore has been observed. However, there has been no report of increase in severity of disease or increase in hospitalization associated with these variants," read the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Among the Indian patients, the disease is mild like with other Omicron sub-lineages, and no increase in severity is noted,” it added.</p>

<p>While the severity might be low, the body said that nearly 50 per cent of te samples sequenced in the past couple of weeks tested positive for it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As reported by WION, the XBB variant was first reported in Singapore and is expected to become the next dominant strain of Covid. Health experts are hopeful that the population’s level of hybrid immunity will not lead to severe illnesses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Up until mid-October, over 60 per cent of the new cases in Singapore were attributed to the XBB variant.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xbb-ba5-bq11-more-the-scrabble-covid-19-variants-taking-over-the-world-528481" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: XBB, BA.5, BQ.1.1 &amp; more: The 'Scrabble' COVID-19 variants taking over the world</strong></a></p>

<p>The new Omicron strains such as XBB, BA.5 and BQ.1.1are also known as "Scrabble" variants, a term coined by Peter Hotez, co-director of the Center for Vaccine Development at Texas Children’s Hospital. The nickname refers to the alphabets B, Q and X that fetch a whole lot of points in the game.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/workers-flee-manufacturing-facility-in-china-to-avoid-tightening-covid-19-curbs-529741"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Workers flee manufacturing facility in China to avoid tightening covid-19 curbs</strong></a></p>

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<p>Experts say that XBB has been found to evade vaccine-derived protections in a research. However, vaccination can keep severe symptoms at bay. In fact, as it becomes colder outside, more variants are likely to emerge.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


After appearing in Singapore for the first time, the Omicron sub-lineage XBB of COVID-19 has found its way to the Indian public. The virus strain is known for its highly contagious nature but an expert panel has observed that Indian patients have reported mild illness and no increase in severity, even after contracting it.

After appearing in Singapore for the first time, the Omicron sub-lineage XBB of COVID-19 has found its way to the Indian public. The virus strain is known for its highly contagious nature but an expert panel has observed that Indian patients have reported mild illness and no increase in severity, even after contracting it. INSACOG, or Indian SARS-CoV-2 Consortium on Genomics, a group of 54 laboratories across the country that monitor the different iterations of the virus made the observations. “Modest increase in the spread of XBB in Singapore has been observed. However, there has been no report of increase in severity of disease or increase in hospitalization associated with these variants," read the report. "Among the Indian patients, the disease is mild like with other Omicron sub-lineages, and no increase in severity is noted,” it added. While the severity might be low, the body said that nearly 50 per cent of te samples sequenced in the past couple of weeks tested positive for it. As reported by WION, the XBB variant was first reported in Singapore and is expected to become the next dominant strain of Covid. Health experts are hopeful that the population’s level of hybrid immunity will not lead to severe illnesses. Up until mid-October, over 60 per cent of the new cases in Singapore were attributed to the XBB variant. Read more: XBB, BA.5, BQ.1.1 & more: The 'Scrabble' COVID-19 variants taking over the world The new Omicron strains such as XBB, BA.5 and BQ.1.1are also known as "Scrabble" variants, a term coined by Peter Hotez, co-director of the Center for Vaccine Development at Texas Children’s Hospital. The nickname refers to the alphabets B, Q and X that fetch a whole lot of points in the game. WATCH | Workers flee manufacturing facility in China to avoid tightening covid-19 curbs × Experts say that XBB has been found to evade vaccine-derived protections in a research. However, vaccination can keep severe symptoms at bay. In fact, as it becomes colder outside, more variants are likely to emerge. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

What are the experts saying about the highly transmissible XBB Covid variant?

The coveted menace continues to trouble the people of China. Despite facing descent, Chinese regime has not shied away from taking harsh measures to implement its zero Covid policy.

China Covid Chaos: Shanghai government bars people from entering and exiting Disney park

People in Iran continue to protest despite an ultimatum from the revolutionary guards. The top commander has said that 29th October would be the last day of carrying out demonstrations.

Iran Protests: Students defy ultimatum by revolutionary guards, chant 'freedom'

Brazil has got its new President. The country has brought Lula de Silva back into power after a decade of leaving office. The President-elect defeated the most far-right government of Brazil. Joe Bolsonaro lost with 49.1 percent.

Brazil Presidential Polls: Lula da Silva wins elections again at the age of 77 with 50.90% of votes

While most of the western giants from McDonald's to Mercedes have quit Russia, the Russian tobacco companies have still not said goodbye to the country.

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Several blasts have rocked the Ukrainian Capital. At least five explosions have been heard in Kyiv. Kyiv's mayor says parts of the city are without electricity and water following the Russian strikes.

Russia blames Ukraine for Black sea attack, 350,000apartments left without electricity and water

After a recent spike in cyber attacks in Australia. The latest is that a communications platform used by the Australian military personnel and defence staff has come under ransomware attack.

Australia: Hackers hit defence communications platform, to increase penalties for data breaches

The Amazon is known as the lungs of our planet and rightly so as it is the world's largest intact forest spread over an area of hundreds of millions of hectares.

WION Climate Tracker: Will change in Brazil's leadership save the Amazon forest?

The two men whose convictions for the assassination of Malcolm X were overturned last year are set to receive $36 million from the city and state of New York.

Malcolm X Assassination: Two acquitted to be awarded $36 MN, released in the mid-1980s

<p>A few weeks after announcing that the company was firing 2,500 employees, Byju's founder and chief executive Byju Raveendran has written an e-mail to the workers, explaining his decision.</p>

<p>While the general tone of the letter is remorseful, a particular line is being called out. Reportedly, in the internal e-mail, the EdTech CEO gave his own synonym for layoff.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Sure, the hands, hearts and minds that built the world’s leading EdTech company will always be in demand. But, no, what others see as ‘layoff’, I only see as time off," said&nbsp;Raveendran in the letter, before adding that re-hiring the laid-off employees will remain the number one priority.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Raveendran explained that the company scaled up massively in the last four years. However, the&nbsp;adverse macroeconomic factors in 2022 affected the business landscape, forcing the company to make tough calls.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-business-news-byjus-founder-apologizes-to-employees-for-clumsy-layoffs-530103"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WION Business News | Byju's founder apologizes to employees for clumsy layoffs</strong></a></p>

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<p>"Having expanded exponentially in the past four years, it is now time for us to grow sustainably. So, we decided to define our ‘path to profitability and sustainable growth’ - and to walk on it in earnest," read the letter.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-prolonged-audit-delay-byjus-reports-575-mn-losses-in-2021-516588"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;After prolonged audit delay, Byju's reports $575 million losses in 2021</strong></a></p>

<p>"I realize that there is a huge price to pay for walking on this path to profitability. We are having to part ways with 2500 of our colleagues to avoid role duplication across our businesses."</p>

<p>As reported by WION, in May, the online learning platform had reported a&nbsp;loss&nbsp;of 45.64 billion rupees ($554.77 million) for fiscal 2021 due to higher promotion and employee expenses.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-edtech-giant-byjus-lays-off-2500-employees-524845"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Indian edtech giant Byju's lays off 2,500 employees to cut costs, improve profitability</strong></a></p>

<p>The employees who have been sacked are from its subsidiary units like Toppr, and WhiteHat Jr, apart from the core team of sales and marketing, operations, content and design teams.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


A few weeks after announcing that the company was firing 2,500 employees, Byju's founder and chief executive Byju Raveendran has written an e-mail to the workers, explaining his decision.

A few weeks after announcing that the company was firing 2,500 employees, Byju's founder and chief executive Byju Raveendran has written an e-mail to the workers, explaining his decision. While the general tone of the letter is remorseful, a particular line is being called out. Reportedly, in the internal e-mail, the EdTech CEO gave his own synonym for layoff. "Sure, the hands, hearts and minds that built the world’s leading EdTech company will always be in demand. But, no, what others see as ‘layoff’, I only see as time off," said Raveendran in the letter, before adding that re-hiring the laid-off employees will remain the number one priority. Raveendran explained that the company scaled up massively in the last four years. However, the adverse macroeconomic factors in 2022 affected the business landscape, forcing the company to make tough calls. WATCH | WION Business News | Byju's founder apologizes to employees for clumsy layoffs × "Having expanded exponentially in the past four years, it is now time for us to grow sustainably. So, we decided to define our ‘path to profitability and sustainable growth’ - and to walk on it in earnest," read the letter. Read more: After prolonged audit delay, Byju's reports $575 million losses in 2021 "I realize that there is a huge price to pay for walking on this path to profitability. We are having to part ways with 2500 of our colleagues to avoid role duplication across our businesses." As reported by WION, in May, the online learning platform had reported a loss of 45.64 billion rupees ($554.77 million) for fiscal 2021 due to higher promotion and employee expenses. Read more: Indian edtech giant Byju's lays off 2,500 employees to cut costs, improve profitability The employees who have been sacked are from its subsidiary units like Toppr, and WhiteHat Jr, apart from the core team of sales and marketing, operations, content and design teams. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: BYJU's CEO says it is not 'layoff' but 'time off' after firing employees

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<p>It has long been expected that Media baron Rupert Murdoch's all-encompassing empire of Fox corporation and News Corp will go to his older son Lachlan Murdoch.</p>

<p>However, a soon-to-be-released book titled 'The Successor: The High-Stakes Life of Lachlan Murdoch' claims that Lachlan will be fired, a day after his father dies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Author Paddy Manning cited a Wall Street analyst who has covered the Murdoch business for decades as saying, "it would be ‘fair to assume Lachlan gets fired the day Rupert dies'."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The insider dubbed the breakdown in the relationship between the brothers Lachlan and James Murdoch as one of the prominent reasons for the former's potential ouster.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The synopsis given by Manning of his book has eerie similarities to the plot of the hit HBO series 'Succession' where Logan Roy, a fictional character loosely based on Rupert Murdoch similarly disowns his oldest son from inheriting the media empire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In a plausible scenario. After Rupert has passed and his shares are dispersed among the four adult children, the three on the other side of Lachlan could choose to manifest control over all of the Murdoch businesses, and to do it in a way that enhances democracies around the world rather than undermining them," added Manning.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-fed-report-government-paid-1-billion-to-american-media-to-promote-covid-19-vaccines-461148"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US Fed Report: Government paid $1 Billion to American media to promote COVID-19 vaccines</strong></a></p>

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<p>The author was referring to the divide within the Murdoch family that has widened in the years gone by. While Lachlan sits firmly on the conservative end of the spectrum, controlling Fox News, New York Post and the Wall Street Journal - his younger brother James is more focused on strengthening democracy, climate activism, political causes and of course defeating Donald Trump.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Manning believes that in the absence of senior Murdoch, the family will edge out Lachlan, so as to nurture a more credible and cohesive image instead of the current symbiotic relationship with the Republicans.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-a-decade-after-the-split-rupert-murdoch-mulling-merging-fox-and-news-corp-again-525692" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Nearly a decade after the split, Rupert Murdoch mulling merging Fox and News Corp again</strong></a></p>

<p>The succession plan, however, will get increasingly complex or simple based on merger plans laid down by Rupert Murdoch.</p>

<p>As reported by WION, last month, the business mogul was mulling plans of merging News Corp&nbsp;and Fox Corp., a little less than 10 years after they were split.</p>

<p>To evaluate a possible merger, the two companies have established executive committees. The proposal is still in its infancy and both companies are yet to ascertain the completion of the deal.</p>

<p>The split transpired in 2013 and Murdoch, at the time attributed the decision to simplifying operations which had become 'increasingly complex' due to the vast size of his media holdings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, since then,&nbsp;much&nbsp;water has flown under the bridge. The advertising sales revenue has fallen&nbsp;to record lows for media companies in the last few years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


It has long been expected that Media baron Rupert Murdoch's all-encompassing empire of Fox corporation and News Corp will go to his older son Lachlan Murdoch. However, a soon-to-be-released book titled 'The Successor: The High-Stakes Life of Lachlan Murdoch' claims that Lachlan will be fired, a day after his father dies.

It has long been expected that Media baron Rupert Murdoch's all-encompassing empire of Fox corporation and News Corp will go to his older son Lachlan Murdoch. However, a soon-to-be-released book titled 'The Successor: The High-Stakes Life of Lachlan Murdoch' claims that Lachlan will be fired, a day after his father dies. Author Paddy Manning cited a Wall Street analyst who has covered the Murdoch business for decades as saying, "it would be ‘fair to assume Lachlan gets fired the day Rupert dies'." The insider dubbed the breakdown in the relationship between the brothers Lachlan and James Murdoch as one of the prominent reasons for the former's potential ouster. The synopsis given by Manning of his book has eerie similarities to the plot of the hit HBO series 'Succession' where Logan Roy, a fictional character loosely based on Rupert Murdoch similarly disowns his oldest son from inheriting the media empire. “In a plausible scenario. After Rupert has passed and his shares are dispersed among the four adult children, the three on the other side of Lachlan could choose to manifest control over all of the Murdoch businesses, and to do it in a way that enhances democracies around the world rather than undermining them," added Manning. WATCH | US Fed Report: Government paid $1 Billion to American media to promote COVID-19 vaccines × The author was referring to the divide within the Murdoch family that has widened in the years gone by. While Lachlan sits firmly on the conservative end of the spectrum, controlling Fox News, New York Post and the Wall Street Journal - his younger brother James is more focused on strengthening democracy, climate activism, political causes and of course defeating Donald Trump. Manning believes that in the absence of senior Murdoch, the family will edge out Lachlan, so as to nurture a more credible and cohesive image instead of the current symbiotic relationship with the Republicans. Read more: Nearly a decade after the split, Rupert Murdoch mulling merging Fox and News Corp again The succession plan, however, will get increasingly complex or simple based on merger plans laid down by Rupert Murdoch. As reported by WION, last month, the business mogul was mulling plans of merging News Corp and Fox Corp., a little less than 10 years after they were split. To evaluate a possible merger, the two companies have established executive committees. The proposal is still in its infancy and both companies are yet to ascertain the completion of the deal. The split transpired in 2013 and Murdoch, at the time attributed the decision to simplifying operations which had become 'increasingly complex' due to the vast size of his media holdings. However, since then, much water has flown under the bridge. The advertising sales revenue has fallen to record lows for media companies in the last few years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Is Murdoch 'Succession' more dramatic than the HBO show? A book has some clues

Amidst heated external political climate and Covid-19 restrictions, the economy of Hong Kong has taken a steep downturn. The economy contracted 4.5 percent in the third quarter which is the worst contraction in Hong Kong since 2020.

Hong Kong: Worst GDP contraction since 2020, Q3 GDP shrinks 4.5%

The space water is now heating up. China has been working steadily to make a mark on the final frontier and now in a big step forward, China is all set to have its first ever permanent space station with the successful launch of the Mengtian lab module.

China launches third and final module of its T-shaped space station, joins its predecessors in space

Israel Elections 2022 | Opinion Polls: Smaller parties may be the deciding factor

Halloween revellers fill Tokyo's famous Shibuya neighborhood, this comes just after the deadly stampede in South Korea that killed over 150 people on Saturday. Japanese police have increased security around the iconic crossing, the police were keeping a close watch on the revelers who were mostly youngsters.

Japan: Halloween celebrations under the shadow of Seoul stampede

Dr Jamshed J Irani, also known as the Steel Man of India, passed away at the age of 86 in Jamshedpur Monday night.

'Steel man of India' Jamshed Irani dies at 86

With election day a week away Democrats and Republicans across the United States are fighting for control of the House of Representatives. Will there be a red wave or is there hope for the Democrats to save themselves, Susan Tehrani reports from New York.

US Midterms 2022: Democrats and Republicans vying for control of Senate

Lula da Silva won the presidential elections defeating the current Bolsonaro government, however, not everyone is delighted by Lula's Victory. A day after the poll results were announced, protesters have now hit the streets blocking highways to oppose the results.

Supporters block highways in Brazil, Bolsonaro remains silent amid post-poll chaos

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<p>South Korean police chief on Tuesday admitted responsibility for the distressing crowd surge that took the lives of over 150 during Halloween festivities in the Itaewon district of Seoul.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reportedly, Yoon Hee Keun, commissioner general of the Korean National Police Agency in a televised press conference made the remarks, after the public piled pressure to fix responsibility on the authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I feel a heavy responsibility (for the disaster) as the head of one of related government offices. Police will do their best to prevent a tragedy like this from happening again.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/explained-how-is-a-crowd-crush-different-from-a-stampede-529829" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Explained | How is a crowd crush different from a stampede?</strong></a></p>

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<p>Yoon admitted there were several lapses in response from the police. He said the initial investigation carried found that the urgent calls made by the citizens notifying them about the potential crush were not adequately responded to by the officers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police chief added that an internal investigation had been opened to ascertain clearly how the officers had handled the emergency calls and other issues such as their on-the-spot response in the face of a crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The admission by the police chief comes a day after security experts said proper crowd and traffic control by South Korean authorities could have prevented or at least mitigated the surge of Halloween partygoers in the lanes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-halloween-crush-the-tragedy-was-avoidable-experts-say-529969" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: South Korea Halloween crush: The tragedy was avoidable, experts say</strong></a></p>

<p>On Sunday, South Korea's President Yoon Suk-Yeol ordered a thorough investigation saying that the deadly stampede at the Halloween event "should not have happened".</p>

<p>"In the centre of Seoul, a tragedy and disaster occurred that should not have happened," Yoon said in a national address, vowing to "thoroughly investigate" the incident and ensure it never happens again.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-around-50-suffer-cardiac-arrest-in-halloween-street-crush-529482" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: South Korea declares national mourning after 152 killed in Seoul Halloween stampede</strong></a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


South Korean police chief on Tuesday admitted responsibility for the distressing crowd surge that took the lives of over 150 during Halloween festivities in the Itaewon district of Seoul.

South Korean police chief on Tuesday admitted responsibility for the distressing crowd surge that took the lives of over 150 during Halloween festivities in the Itaewon district of Seoul. Reportedly, Yoon Hee Keun, commissioner general of the Korean National Police Agency in a televised press conference made the remarks, after the public piled pressure to fix responsibility on the authorities. “I feel a heavy responsibility (for the disaster) as the head of one of related government offices. Police will do their best to prevent a tragedy like this from happening again.” WATCH | Explained | How is a crowd crush different from a stampede? × Yoon admitted there were several lapses in response from the police. He said the initial investigation carried found that the urgent calls made by the citizens notifying them about the potential crush were not adequately responded to by the officers. The police chief added that an internal investigation had been opened to ascertain clearly how the officers had handled the emergency calls and other issues such as their on-the-spot response in the face of a crisis. The admission by the police chief comes a day after security experts said proper crowd and traffic control by South Korean authorities could have prevented or at least mitigated the surge of Halloween partygoers in the lanes. Read more: South Korea Halloween crush: The tragedy was avoidable, experts say On Sunday, South Korea's President Yoon Suk-Yeol ordered a thorough investigation saying that the deadly stampede at the Halloween event "should not have happened". "In the centre of Seoul, a tragedy and disaster occurred that should not have happened," Yoon said in a national address, vowing to "thoroughly investigate" the incident and ensure it never happens again. Read more: South Korea declares national mourning after 152 killed in Seoul Halloween stampede (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

South Korean police chief admits responsibility for the Seoul tragedy

Israelis are queuing up for the fifth time in four years. Every election has unmasked how complex politics has become in Israel. WION's correspondent Jodie Cohen decodes the four key players for you and whether Netanyahu could pull off a comeback.

Israel voting underway live news | Opinion polls: Smaller parties may be the deciding factor

Same-sex couples in Tokyo have started receiving their partnership certificates. The status does not carry the same legal rights as marriage but partners will be treated as married couples for some public services like housing, medicine, welfare; this is applicable for both residents and commuters.

Tokyo recognizes same-sex relationships, LGBTQ community hopes for no discrimination

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