<p>The US Senate on Monday (Feb 5) agreed on a bipartisan $118 billion deal that will overhaul the immigration policy as well as provide&nbsp;emergency aid for Ukraine, Israel and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;Despite the bill receiving a rare bipartisan nod in the Senate, its future remains clouded in doubt as the Republican-dominated House of Representatives is expected to tank it, with former president Donald Trump leading the charge from the outside.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Of the total amount, $20 billion has been earmarked for shoring up the US border areas to prevent illegal migration while the foreign aid package includes $60 billion for Ukraine and $14 billion for Israel.</p>

<p>The US will go to polls in November this year with Biden expected to square up against&nbsp;Trump in all likelihood. Sensing that Biden might score an important political victory, Trump has begun influencing the Republican leaders in the House, arguing that measures in place to address the illegal migration issue were inefficient.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Don't be STUPID!!! We need a separate Border and Immigration Bill. It should not be tied to foreign aid in any way, shape, or form!" said Trump on his social media platform Truth Social.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This Bill is a great gift to the Democrats and a Death Wish for The Republican Party," he added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-senate-negotiators-reach-bipartisan-deal-on-border-policy-687000"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;US: Senate negotiators reach bipartisan deal on border policy</strong></a></p>

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<p>Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson has already said the House would reject the bipartisan Senate bill, and instead vote this week on a measure providing aid only to Israel.</p>

<p>After reports emerged of a Republican showdown, President Biden said he would veto&nbsp;the standalone bill backed by GOP lawmakers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Administration strongly encourages both chambers of the Congress to reject this political ploy and instead quickly send the bipartisan Emergency National Security Supplemental Appropriations Act to the President’s desk," the White House Office of Management and Budget said in a statement.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-authorities-start-closing-bridges-with-mexico-to-contain-surge-in-immigration-671644"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;US authorities start closing bridges with Mexico to contain surge in immigration</strong></a></p>

<p>Biden has justified the contents of the bill, concerning the immigration policy saying it will&nbsp;give him authority to “shut down” the border when it gets overwhelmed. He added the bill makes the asylum process “fairer and more efficient” while&nbsp;expediting&nbsp;work permits for those already in the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Trump has repeatedly attacked the Democrats by pointing to the statistics which show&nbsp;migrant encounters reached a record high of 302,000 in December alone at the southern border. As for Ukraine aid, Trump has been against the war as well as the billions of dollars sent to President Volodymyr Zelensky's government from the outset.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>&nbsp;(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The US Senate on Monday (Feb 5) agreed on a bipartisan $118 billion deal that will overhaul the immigration policy as well as provide emergency aid for Ukraine, Israel and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

The US Senate on Monday (Feb 5) agreed on a bipartisan $118 billion deal that will overhaul the immigration policy as well as provide emergency aid for Ukraine, Israel and partners in the Indo-Pacific region. Despite the bill receiving a rare bipartisan nod in the Senate, its future remains clouded in doubt as the Republican-dominated House of Representatives is expected to tank it, with former president Donald Trump leading the charge from the outside. Of the total amount, $20 billion has been earmarked for shoring up the US border areas to prevent illegal migration while the foreign aid package includes $60 billion for Ukraine and $14 billion for Israel. The US will go to polls in November this year with Biden expected to square up against Trump in all likelihood. Sensing that Biden might score an important political victory, Trump has begun influencing the Republican leaders in the House, arguing that measures in place to address the illegal migration issue were inefficient. "Don't be STUPID!!! We need a separate Border and Immigration Bill. It should not be tied to foreign aid in any way, shape, or form!" said Trump on his social media platform Truth Social. "This Bill is a great gift to the Democrats and a Death Wish for The Republican Party," he added. Watch | US: Senate negotiators reach bipartisan deal on border policy × Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson has already said the House would reject the bipartisan Senate bill, and instead vote this week on a measure providing aid only to Israel. After reports emerged of a Republican showdown, President Biden said he would veto the standalone bill backed by GOP lawmakers. "The Administration strongly encourages both chambers of the Congress to reject this political ploy and instead quickly send the bipartisan Emergency National Security Supplemental Appropriations Act to the President’s desk," the White House Office of Management and Budget said in a statement. Also read | US authorities start closing bridges with Mexico to contain surge in immigration Biden has justified the contents of the bill, concerning the immigration policy saying it will give him authority to “shut down” the border when it gets overwhelmed. He added the bill makes the asylum process “fairer and more efficient” while expediting work permits for those already in the US. However, Trump has repeatedly attacked the Democrats by pointing to the statistics which show migrant encounters reached a record high of 302,000 in December alone at the southern border. As for Ukraine aid, Trump has been against the war as well as the billions of dollars sent to President Volodymyr Zelensky's government from the outset. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump stands in way of $118bn immigration, Ukraine and Israel package deal, passed by Senate

<p>In Beijing, China, on Monday, Australian writer and pro-democracy blogger Yang Hengjun found himself on the receiving end of a suspended death sentence. The move has stirred controversy and drawn attention from human rights advocates who have deemed it an unusually harsh verdict in an espionage-related case.</p>

<p>But what is a suspended death penalty? Here's all you need to know.</p>

<h2><strong>Unravelling the suspended death penalty</strong></h2>

<p>Since 2007, the Chinese judicial authorities have implemented a top-down capital punishment reform in order to reduce the number of death sentences.</p>

<p>In China, suspended death penalty or 'sihuan zhidu' is a form of punishment that provides the accused with a two-year reprieve from execution.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-writer-yang-hengjun-given-suspended-death-sentence-in-china-687028">Australian-Chinese writer Yang Hengjun given suspended death sentence in China. Who is he?</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the National University of Singapore, after this period," the death sentence may be commuted to life imprisonment if the convict has not committed an "intentional crime" during the two-year reprieve, or to a fixed-term imprisonment of 25 years if the convict has performed "great meritorious service". Throughout this reprieve period, the individual remains behind bars.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This sentencing tactic as per Ryan Mitchell, a law professor at the University of Hong Kong, has gained traction in recent times as a means of curbing executions without fully abolishing the death penalty.</p>

<p>"It has been used more commonly in recent years as a way to reduce the prevalence of executions without abolishing the death penalty altogether," said Mitchell, as quoted by Reuters.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-satoshi-nakamoto-war-begins-in-the-uk-court-to-decide-on-bitcoin-founders-identity-687233">Who is Satoshi Nakamoto? 'War' begins in the UK court to decide on Bitcoin founder’s identity</a></strong></p>

<p>The exact prevalence of death sentences, including their suspension, as per the Hong Kong University professor are concealed in secrecy by the Chinese government.</p>

<p>Mitchell, a law professor shed, light on the versatility of the suspended death sentence, emphasising its application across various cases rather than being confined to a specific crime type.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The sentence is used for a wide range of cases, and isn't associated with one particular type of crime," he said.</p>

<p>It is frequently employed for offences deemed to have a "serious negative social impact," such as drug trafficking, he said.</p>

<h2><strong>Recent suspended death sentences</strong></h2>

<p>Recent instances of suspended death sentences include a former vice chairman of China's banking regulator, who was sentenced in December for bribery and abuse of power. Additionally, the sentence was also awarded to former justice minister Fu Zhenghua in 2022 for corruption, taking bribes.</p>

<h2><strong>Potential for Yang's deportation</strong></h2>

<p>While parole typically remains elusive until halfway through a fixed term or after ten years in the case of life imprisonment, Mitchell noted that exceptions can be made in "special circumstances" by China's top court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This flexibility might allow for diplomatic leverage to influence Yang's fate following the two-year reprieve.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/the-best-is-yet-to-come-mark-zuckerberg-celebrates-20-years-of-facebook-687251">‘The best is yet to come’: Mark Zuckerberg celebrates 20 years of Facebook</a></strong></p>

<p>"For a case of this nature, the availability of that discretion after the two-year period concludes would help to maintain a certain degree of diplomatic leverage," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>A death sentence for Yang</strong></h2>

<p>Despite its "suspended" nature, the sentence essentially functions as a death penalty for Yang Hengjun, said Elaine Pearson, director of Human Rights Watch's Asia Division, underscoring the gravity of the situation.</p>

<p>According to her, due to his deteriorating health and the inadequate medical care received in prison, the Australian writer and pro-democracy blogger won't survive the sentence.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A rare sentence</strong></h2>

<p>Patrick Poon, an independent human rights analyst, highlighted the rarity of espionage cases receiving suspended death sentences in China. He said it was "very rare to see espionage cases get a suspended death sentence" especially given Australia's vocal demands for Yang's release.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The possibility of deportation remains uncertain, prompting questions about the level of international and diplomatic pressure on the Chinese government.</p>

<p>"It becomes another issue of how much international and diplomatic pressure is put on the Chinese government," said Poon. As per Reuters, he was referring to the cases of Australian national Cheng Lei and the Canadian "two Michaels", who were eventually deported back to their home countries after similarly being tried on espionage allegations.</p>

<p>"There is still a possibility that Yang may be deported, but it's unclear for the moment," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Opacity and international scrutiny</strong></h2>

<p>China's foreign ministry confirmed Yang's sentence, labelling him guilty of espionage without divulging the specifics of the charges.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, spokesperson Wang Wenbin assured that the trial adhered strictly to the law, and the "Australian side" was permitted to witness the sentencing.</p>

<p>"The court heard the trial in strict accordance with the law and ensured his procedural rights," he said.</p>

<p>However, the lack of transparency in China's legal proceedings is well known. In this case, a prohibition has been placed on Yang's lawyers, including prominent human rights advocate Mo Shaoping, from publicly discussing the case.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Elaine Pearson of Human Rights Watch remarked that "This case really spotlights what happens to people who are arbitrarily detained on national security charges in China, and it highlights the opaqueness of the criminal justice system."</p>

<p>With Chinese courts boasting a staggering 99.9 per cent conviction rate, cases involving national security or the death penalty never see the light of day online, reports the news agency.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In Beijing, China, on Monday, Australian writer and pro-democracy blogger Yang Hengjun found himself on the receiving end of a suspended death sentence. The move has stirred controversy and drawn attention from human rights advocates who have deemed it an unusually harsh verdict in an espionage-related case.

In Beijing, China, on Monday, Australian writer and pro-democracy blogger Yang Hengjun found himself on the receiving end of a suspended death sentence. The move has stirred controversy and drawn attention from human rights advocates who have deemed it an unusually harsh verdict in an espionage-related case. But what is a suspended death penalty? Here's all you need to know. Unravelling the suspended death penalty Since 2007, the Chinese judicial authorities have implemented a top-down capital punishment reform in order to reduce the number of death sentences. In China, suspended death penalty or 'sihuan zhidu' is a form of punishment that provides the accused with a two-year reprieve from execution. Also read | Australian-Chinese writer Yang Hengjun given suspended death sentence in China. Who is he? As per the National University of Singapore, after this period," the death sentence may be commuted to life imprisonment if the convict has not committed an "intentional crime" during the two-year reprieve, or to a fixed-term imprisonment of 25 years if the convict has performed "great meritorious service". Throughout this reprieve period, the individual remains behind bars. This sentencing tactic as per Ryan Mitchell, a law professor at the University of Hong Kong, has gained traction in recent times as a means of curbing executions without fully abolishing the death penalty. "It has been used more commonly in recent years as a way to reduce the prevalence of executions without abolishing the death penalty altogether," said Mitchell, as quoted by Reuters. Also read | Who is Satoshi Nakamoto? 'War' begins in the UK court to decide on Bitcoin founder’s identity The exact prevalence of death sentences, including their suspension, as per the Hong Kong University professor are concealed in secrecy by the Chinese government. Mitchell, a law professor shed, light on the versatility of the suspended death sentence, emphasising its application across various cases rather than being confined to a specific crime type. "The sentence is used for a wide range of cases, and isn't associated with one particular type of crime," he said. It is frequently employed for offences deemed to have a "serious negative social impact," such as drug trafficking, he said. Recent suspended death sentences Recent instances of suspended death sentences include a former vice chairman of China's banking regulator, who was sentenced in December for bribery and abuse of power. Additionally, the sentence was also awarded to former justice minister Fu Zhenghua in 2022 for corruption, taking bribes. Potential for Yang's deportation While parole typically remains elusive until halfway through a fixed term or after ten years in the case of life imprisonment, Mitchell noted that exceptions can be made in "special circumstances" by China's top court. This flexibility might allow for diplomatic leverage to influence Yang's fate following the two-year reprieve. Also read | ‘The best is yet to come’: Mark Zuckerberg celebrates 20 years of Facebook "For a case of this nature, the availability of that discretion after the two-year period concludes would help to maintain a certain degree of diplomatic leverage," he said. A death sentence for Yang Despite its "suspended" nature, the sentence essentially functions as a death penalty for Yang Hengjun, said Elaine Pearson, director of Human Rights Watch's Asia Division, underscoring the gravity of the situation. According to her, due to his deteriorating health and the inadequate medical care received in prison, the Australian writer and pro-democracy blogger won't survive the sentence. A rare sentence Patrick Poon, an independent human rights analyst, highlighted the rarity of espionage cases receiving suspended death sentences in China. He said it was "very rare to see espionage cases get a suspended death sentence" especially given Australia's vocal demands for Yang's release. The possibility of deportation remains uncertain, prompting questions about the level of international and diplomatic pressure on the Chinese government. "It becomes another issue of how much international and diplomatic pressure is put on the Chinese government," said Poon. As per Reuters, he was referring to the cases of Australian national Cheng Lei and the Canadian "two Michaels", who were eventually deported back to their home countries after similarly being tried on espionage allegations. "There is still a possibility that Yang may be deported, but it's unclear for the moment," he added. Opacity and international scrutiny China's foreign ministry confirmed Yang's sentence, labelling him guilty of espionage without divulging the specifics of the charges. However, spokesperson Wang Wenbin assured that the trial adhered strictly to the law, and the "Australian side" was permitted to witness the sentencing. "The court heard the trial in strict accordance with the law and ensured his procedural rights," he said. However, the lack of transparency in China's legal proceedings is well known. In this case, a prohibition has been placed on Yang's lawyers, including prominent human rights advocate Mo Shaoping, from publicly discussing the case. Elaine Pearson of Human Rights Watch remarked that "This case really spotlights what happens to people who are arbitrarily detained on national security charges in China, and it highlights the opaqueness of the criminal justice system." With Chinese courts boasting a staggering 99.9 per cent conviction rate, cases involving national security or the death penalty never see the light of day online, reports the news agency. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Understanding China’s ‘suspended death sentence’ to Australian blogger Yang Hengjun

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<p>Russia has accused US President Joe Biden of carrying out military strikes in Iraq and Syria to prop up his presidential re-election campaign. Russia's Ambassador to United Nations Vassily Nebenzia, at a meeting of the Security Council, said that Biden giving the nod to engage in conflicts in the Middle East was not in response to the deadly attack on US soldiers in Jordan, but an attempt to boost his image.</p>

<p>The US last week began airstrikes against dozens of targets linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) and allied groups after the Jordan drone attacks which Washington blamed on Iranian-backed militias.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The biggest operation of the US in the region since 2003, presented by Joe Biden as an act of retaliation for an attack of the use of a UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) of unconfirmed origin on the American base that is illegally in Syria has no justification," said Nebenzia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We see in these 'flex their muscles' attempts, first of all, a desire to influence the domestic political landscape in America, a desire to somehow correct the disastrous image of the current American administration," he added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-strikes-iran-backed-targets-in-iraq-and-syria-686683"><strong>Watch | US strikes Iran-backed targets in Iraq and Syria</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>US presidential elections</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The US will go to polls in November this year with Biden expected to square up against former president Donald Trump in all likelihood.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden's approval ratings have taken a tumble in recent months as Trump chalks up a comeback. Experts believe that the current escalation in the Middle East, if played well, could provide Biden the required fillip, to make the competition even.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Washington has justified the US strikes in Syria and Iraq under Article 51 of the founding UN Charter, which covers the individual or collective right of states to self-defence against armed attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Let me be clear: The United States does not desire more conflict in a region when we are actively working to contain and de-escalate the conflict in Gaza. And we are not seeking a direct conflict with Iran," said Wood.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-drone-strike-on-syrian-democratic-forces-kills-seven-in-syria-687239"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Middle East Crisis: Drone strike on base housing US troops kills seven in Syria</strong></a></p>

<p>According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, seven Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) special forces "commandos" were killed and 18 others wounded in "a drone attack after midnight" on Monday (Feb 5).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from the strikes in Iraq and Syria, Washington is busy bombarding Houthis in Yemen alongside allies after the militant group started attacking shipping vessels in the Red Sea to avenge Israel's war in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia has accused US President Joe Biden of carrying out military strikes in Iraq and Syria to prop up his presidential re-election campaign. Russia's Ambassador to United Nations Vassily Nebenzia, at a meeting of the Security Council, said that Biden giving the nod to engage in conflicts in the Middle East was not in response to the deadly attack on US soldiers in Jordan, but an attempt to boost his image.

Russia has accused US President Joe Biden of carrying out military strikes in Iraq and Syria to prop up his presidential re-election campaign. Russia's Ambassador to United Nations Vassily Nebenzia, at a meeting of the Security Council, said that Biden giving the nod to engage in conflicts in the Middle East was not in response to the deadly attack on US soldiers in Jordan, but an attempt to boost his image. The US last week began airstrikes against dozens of targets linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) and allied groups after the Jordan drone attacks which Washington blamed on Iranian-backed militias. "The biggest operation of the US in the region since 2003, presented by Joe Biden as an act of retaliation for an attack of the use of a UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) of unconfirmed origin on the American base that is illegally in Syria has no justification," said Nebenzia. "We see in these 'flex their muscles' attempts, first of all, a desire to influence the domestic political landscape in America, a desire to somehow correct the disastrous image of the current American administration," he added. Watch | US strikes Iran-backed targets in Iraq and Syria × US presidential elections The US will go to polls in November this year with Biden expected to square up against former president Donald Trump in all likelihood. Biden's approval ratings have taken a tumble in recent months as Trump chalks up a comeback. Experts believe that the current escalation in the Middle East, if played well, could provide Biden the required fillip, to make the competition even. Washington has justified the US strikes in Syria and Iraq under Article 51 of the founding UN Charter, which covers the individual or collective right of states to self-defence against armed attack. "Let me be clear: The United States does not desire more conflict in a region when we are actively working to contain and de-escalate the conflict in Gaza. And we are not seeking a direct conflict with Iran," said Wood. Also read | Middle East Crisis: Drone strike on base housing US troops kills seven in Syria According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, seven Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) special forces "commandos" were killed and 18 others wounded in "a drone attack after midnight" on Monday (Feb 5). Apart from the strikes in Iraq and Syria, Washington is busy bombarding Houthis in Yemen alongside allies after the militant group started attacking shipping vessels in the Red Sea to avenge Israel's war in the Gaza Strip. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia says Biden 'boosting' his presidential campaign with Syria, Iraq strikes

<p>The Supreme Court&nbsp;on Monday (Feb 5) gave an earful to the returning officer over his conduct during the recent mayoral polls in&nbsp;the northern Indian union territory of Chandigarh. The apex court said what happened during the election was a "mockery of democracy".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, the three-judge bench made the remark while hearing a petition filed by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congress. The alliance's candidate Kuldeep Kumar&nbsp;lost the mayoral race to Bhartiya Janta Party's (BJP) Manoj Sonkar after&nbsp;the returning officer declared eight votes invalid.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“What is he doing? It’s obvious that he has defaced the ballot…This man has to be prosecuted," said CJI Chandrachud, referring to&nbsp;returning officer Anil Masih after watching a CCTV footage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This is a mockery of democracy. It’s murdering democracy. Is this the way he conducts an election? We are appalled by what has happened. We are simply appalled by what has happened,” he added.</p>

<p>Notably, the alliance candidate had 20 votes which meant he could have become the new mayor. However, after Masih declared eight votes invalid,&nbsp;Kumar's effective vote count came down to&nbsp;12 against Sonkar's 16.</p>

<p>The court ordered that "entire records pertaining to the election" be kept in custody of&nbsp;the Registrar General of the Punjab and Haryana High Court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We direct that the entire records pertaining to the election of the mayor of the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation shall be sequestered under the custody of the registrar general of the Punjab and Haryana High Court. This shall include the ballot papers, videography of the entire electoral process and all other material in the custody of the returning officer.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandigarh-mayor-elections-bjps-manoj-sonkar-wins-oppn-demands-action-against-presiding-officer-685169"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Chandigarh Mayor elections: BJP’s Manoj Sonkar wins, oppn demands action against presiding officer</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>AAP released new video</strong></h2>

<p>Hours after the court's statement, AAP released a new video of Masih allegedly tampering with the ballot papers before declaring them invalid.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Now accept it, BJP. What can be a greater proof than this? See how the Presiding Officer of BJP openly destroyed the flag of democracy by cancelling the votes himself. This is living proof of BJP's dictatorship," AAP said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="pa">ਹੁਣ ਤਾਂ ਮੰਨ ਜਾਓ <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4India</a> ਵਾਲਿਓ!<br />
<br />
ਇਸਤੋਂ ਵੱਡਾ ਸਬੂਤ ਹੋਰ ਕੀ ਹੋ ਸਕਦੈ। ਦੇਖੋ ਕਿਵੇਂ BJP ਦੇ Presiding Officer ਨੇ ਸ਼ਰੇਆਮ ਖ਼ੁਦ ਹੀ ਵੋਟਾਂ ਕੈਂਸਲ ਕਰਕੇ ਉਡਾਈਆਂ ਲੋਕਤੰਤਰ ਦੀਆਂ ਧੱਜੀਆਂ।<br />
<br />
ਇਹ ਭਾਜਪਾ ਦੀ ਤਾਨਾਸ਼ਾਹੀ ਦਾ ਜਿਉਂਦਾ ਜਾਗਦਾ ਸਬੂਤ ਹੈ।<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChandigarhMayor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChandigarhMayor</a> <a href="https://t.co/BIxIhrwRv6">pic.twitter.com/BIxIhrwRv6</a></p>
— AAP Punjab (@AAPPunjab) <a href="https://twitter.com/AAPPunjab/status/1754548714507841943?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>AAP chief and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal attacked BJP saying the "world's biggest party was caught red-handed, stealing votes in Chandigarh election".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Supreme Court on Monday (Feb 5) gave an earful to the returning officer over his conduct during the recent mayoral polls in the northern Indian union territory of Chandigarh.

The Supreme Court on Monday (Feb 5) gave an earful to the returning officer over his conduct during the recent mayoral polls in the northern Indian union territory of Chandigarh. The apex court said what happened during the election was a "mockery of democracy". Led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, the three-judge bench made the remark while hearing a petition filed by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congress. The alliance's candidate Kuldeep Kumar lost the mayoral race to Bhartiya Janta Party's (BJP) Manoj Sonkar after the returning officer declared eight votes invalid. “What is he doing? It’s obvious that he has defaced the ballot…This man has to be prosecuted," said CJI Chandrachud, referring to returning officer Anil Masih after watching a CCTV footage. “This is a mockery of democracy. It’s murdering democracy. Is this the way he conducts an election? We are appalled by what has happened. We are simply appalled by what has happened,” he added. Notably, the alliance candidate had 20 votes which meant he could have become the new mayor. However, after Masih declared eight votes invalid, Kumar's effective vote count came down to 12 against Sonkar's 16. The court ordered that "entire records pertaining to the election" be kept in custody of the Registrar General of the Punjab and Haryana High Court. “We direct that the entire records pertaining to the election of the mayor of the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation shall be sequestered under the custody of the registrar general of the Punjab and Haryana High Court. This shall include the ballot papers, videography of the entire electoral process and all other material in the custody of the returning officer.” Also read | Chandigarh Mayor elections: BJP’s Manoj Sonkar wins, oppn demands action against presiding officer AAP released new video Hours after the court's statement, AAP released a new video of Masih allegedly tampering with the ballot papers before declaring them invalid. "Now accept it, BJP. What can be a greater proof than this? See how the Presiding Officer of BJP openly destroyed the flag of democracy by cancelling the votes himself. This is living proof of BJP's dictatorship," AAP said. ਹੁਣ ਤਾਂ ਮੰਨ ਜਾਓ @BJP4India ਵਾਲਿਓ! ਇਸਤੋਂ ਵੱਡਾ ਸਬੂਤ ਹੋਰ ਕੀ ਹੋ ਸਕਦੈ। ਦੇਖੋ ਕਿਵੇਂ BJP ਦੇ Presiding Officer ਨੇ ਸ਼ਰੇਆਮ ਖ਼ੁਦ ਹੀ ਵੋਟਾਂ ਕੈਂਸਲ ਕਰਕੇ ਉਡਾਈਆਂ ਲੋਕਤੰਤਰ ਦੀਆਂ ਧੱਜੀਆਂ। ਇਹ ਭਾਜਪਾ ਦੀ ਤਾਨਾਸ਼ਾਹੀ ਦਾ ਜਿਉਂਦਾ ਜਾਗਦਾ ਸਬੂਤ ਹੈ।#ChandigarhMayor pic.twitter.com/BIxIhrwRv6 — AAP Punjab (@AAPPunjab) February 5, 2024 × AAP chief and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal attacked BJP saying the "world's biggest party was caught red-handed, stealing votes in Chandigarh election". (With inputs from agencies)

Chandigarh mayor polls: SC calls election 'mockery of democracy' after presiding officer fudges ballots

<p>Globally there has been a surge in deadly shark attacks, shows new international research. These attacks were especially recorded in isolated areas. Last year (in 2023), globally, there were 10 fatal shark attacks — twice as many as the previous year. Shockingly, four fatalities were in Australia.</p>

<h2><strong>'Unprovoked' attacks</strong></h2>

<p>The data showed that compared to people swimming, surfers were slightly more at risk — accounting for 42 per cent of the 69 so-called "unprovoked" shark bites worldwide. This is higher than the five-year average of 63 attacks.</p>

<p>In 2023, 22 per cent or 15 of these unprovoked incidents occurred in the land down under. However, 40 per cent of them ended in death.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/social-media-pushing-youngsters-towards-more-misogynistic-content-finds-study-687528">Social media pushing youngsters towards more misogynistic content, finds study</a></strong></p>

<p>Outside of Australia, two deadly shark attacks were recorded in the US. Furthermore, the Bahamas, Egypt, Mexico, and New Caledonia each recorded one fatality.</p>

<p>Reports of non-fatal shark bites came in from Costa Rica, Colombia, Brazil, New Seychelles, Turks and Caicos, Ecuador, South Africa, and the US.</p>

<p>According to researchers at the University of Florida’s International Shark Attack File, the study focused on bites which have occurred without human provocation and provides valuable insights into shark behaviour.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Our annual shark bite report for 2023 is now available online. There were a total of 69 recorded, consistent with recent trends, and an uptick in the number of fatalities.<br />
<br />
Full story and data: <a href="https://t.co/pg3uFDGNZJ">https://t.co/pg3uFDGNZJ</a><br />
<br />
Summary report: <a href="https://t.co/K18ueW3rAO">https://t.co/K18ueW3rAO</a> <a href="https://t.co/CdfRJxbmt7">pic.twitter.com/CdfRJxbmt7</a></p>
— Florida Museum (@FloridaMuseum) <a href="https://twitter.com/FloridaMuseum/status/1754507214738620476?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Unprovoked bites, as per the Florida Museum of Natural History's website, are "incidents in which a bite on a live human occurs in the shark's natural habitat with no human provocation of the shark."</p>

<h2><strong>Provoked bites</strong></h2>

<p>As per the Guardian, another 22 attacks were recorded where spearfishing was a common activity. However, these were left out of the study after being considered 'provoked'.</p>

<p>As per the museum, provoked bites "occur when a human initiates interaction with a shark in some way."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gavin Naylor, director of shark research at the Florida Museum of Natural History, noted that while the number of bites aligned with long-term trends, the increase in fatalities was concerning.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-airport-ground-worker-falls-from-truck-gets-killed-by-plane-being-towed-behind-it-687544">Hong Kong airport: Ground worker falls from truck, dies after being&nbsp;struck&nbsp;by&nbsp;plane</a></strong></p>

<p>"This is within the range of the normal number of bites, though the fatalities are a bit unnerving this year," he said.</p>

<p>Three of the fatal attacks in 2023 happened off South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, known for its high population of white sharks and seals, their main prey.</p>

<p>According to Naylor, seals’ agility means only those behaving erratically are caught, similar to surfers. A bull shark also claimed the life of a teenage girl in Western Australia’s Swan River.</p>

<p>Despite these incidents, the number of fatal attacks in Australian waters in 2023 remained below the decade’s peak in 2020.</p>

<p>Researchers noted that most attacks were "test bites," where sharks mistake people for prey. While sharks usually swim away after such incidents, unusual cases involving repeated or particularly harsh bites have proven fatal. In conclusion, the shark attack file noted that the "risk of being bitten by a shark remains extremely low."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Globally there has been a surge in deadly shark attacks, shows new international research. These attacks were especially recorded in isolated areas. Last year (in 2023), globally, there were 10 fatal shark attacks — twice as many as the previous year.

Globally there has been a surge in deadly shark attacks, shows new international research. These attacks were especially recorded in isolated areas. Last year (in 2023), globally, there were 10 fatal shark attacks — twice as many as the previous year. Shockingly, four fatalities were in Australia. 'Unprovoked' attacks The data showed that compared to people swimming, surfers were slightly more at risk — accounting for 42 per cent of the 69 so-called "unprovoked" shark bites worldwide. This is higher than the five-year average of 63 attacks. In 2023, 22 per cent or 15 of these unprovoked incidents occurred in the land down under. However, 40 per cent of them ended in death. Also read | Social media pushing youngsters towards more misogynistic content, finds study Outside of Australia, two deadly shark attacks were recorded in the US. Furthermore, the Bahamas, Egypt, Mexico, and New Caledonia each recorded one fatality. Reports of non-fatal shark bites came in from Costa Rica, Colombia, Brazil, New Seychelles, Turks and Caicos, Ecuador, South Africa, and the US. According to researchers at the University of Florida’s International Shark Attack File, the study focused on bites which have occurred without human provocation and provides valuable insights into shark behaviour. Our annual shark bite report for 2023 is now available online. There were a total of 69 recorded, consistent with recent trends, and an uptick in the number of fatalities. Full story and data: https://t.co/pg3uFDGNZJ Summary report: https://t.co/K18ueW3rAO pic.twitter.com/CdfRJxbmt7 — Florida Museum (@FloridaMuseum) February 5, 2024 × Unprovoked bites, as per the Florida Museum of Natural History's website, are "incidents in which a bite on a live human occurs in the shark's natural habitat with no human provocation of the shark." Provoked bites As per the Guardian, another 22 attacks were recorded where spearfishing was a common activity. However, these were left out of the study after being considered 'provoked'. As per the museum, provoked bites "occur when a human initiates interaction with a shark in some way." Gavin Naylor, director of shark research at the Florida Museum of Natural History, noted that while the number of bites aligned with long-term trends, the increase in fatalities was concerning. Also read | Hong Kong airport: Ground worker falls from truck, dies after being struck by plane "This is within the range of the normal number of bites, though the fatalities are a bit unnerving this year," he said. Three of the fatal attacks in 2023 happened off South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, known for its high population of white sharks and seals, their main prey. According to Naylor, seals’ agility means only those behaving erratically are caught, similar to surfers. A bull shark also claimed the life of a teenage girl in Western Australia’s Swan River. Despite these incidents, the number of fatal attacks in Australian waters in 2023 remained below the decade’s peak in 2020. Researchers noted that most attacks were "test bites," where sharks mistake people for prey. While sharks usually swim away after such incidents, unusual cases involving repeated or particularly harsh bites have proven fatal. In conclusion, the shark attack file noted that the "risk of being bitten by a shark remains extremely low." (With inputs from agencies)

Shark attacks doubled in 2023, finds study

<p>Is social media pushing youngsters towards more misogynistic content? As per a new research, yes.&nbsp;A study by teams at University College London and the University of Kent found that social media platforms are amplifying extreme misogynistic content. Such content, it says, is now spreading from teenagers' screens and onto playgrounds where it has now become normalised.</p>

<h2><strong>Shocking findings</strong></h2>

<p>In this particular study, researchers looked at TikTok. They found that over a five-day period of monitoring, there was a four-fold increase in the level of misogynistic content the social media platform suggested. Suggested content included extreme videos that focussed on anger and blame directed at women.</p>

<p>As per the Guardian, researchers say while the results may be from TikTok only, but that they are likely to apply to other social media platforms.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-us-tiktoker-purchases-foldable-house-from-amazon-video-goes-viral-687471">Watch: US TikToker purchases foldable house from Amazon. Video goes viral</a></strong></p>

<p>The study called 'Safer Scrolling' argues that social media algorithms are pushing harmful content to teenagers and young people under the guise of entertainment.</p>

<p>As per the study, toxic, hateful or misogynistic material is "pushed" to young people, normalising harmful ideologies. It says that boys with anxiety and mental health issues are at an increased risk from such content.</p>

<h2><strong>Study methodology</strong></h2>

<p>Researchers began by interviewing young people who engage with and producing radical online content. Based on the interviews, they established "archetypes, to represent typologies of teenage boys who may be vulnerable to becoming radicalised by online content." Based on that, they set up accounts on TikTok with specific content interests — for example, someone seeking out content on masculinity or addressing loneliness.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Finally, researchers used this to watch video content suggestions on the 'for you' page over a period of seven days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Initially, content suggestions were in line with the chosen interests of each archetype. However, over time, it evolved into anger and blame directed at women. Five days into the research, TikTok was suggesting content such as objectification, sexual harassment or discrediting women — increasing four-fold, from 13 per cent of recommended videos to 56 per cent.</p>

<p>Finally, roundtables and interviews with school leaders revealed that such misogynistic tropes are becoming normal in in-person interactions, as well.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/meta-slammed-for-incoherent-deepfake-policy-after-viral-biden-video-687441">Meta slammed for 'incoherent' deepfake policy after viral Biden video</a></strong></p>

<p>"UCL's findings show that algorithms – which most of us know little about – have a snowball effect in which they serve up ever-more extreme content in the form of entertainment," remarks, Geoff Barton, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, which collaborated with the research.</p>

<p>"This is deeply worrying in general but particularly so in respect of the amplification of messages around toxic masculinity and its impact on young people who need to be able to grow up and develop their understanding of the world without being influenced by such appalling material" he added, as quoted by The guardian.</p>

<h2><strong>What the researchers recommend</strong></h2>

<p>Researchers recommend a "healthy digital diet" education, holding social media companies accountable, peer-to-peer monitoring, and promotion of wider awareness of algorithmic processes among parents and the community at large.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Is social media pushing youngsters towards more misogynistic content? As per a new research, yes. A study by teams at University College London and the University of Kent found that social media platforms are amplifying extreme misogynistic content.

Is social media pushing youngsters towards more misogynistic content? As per a new research, yes. A study by teams at University College London and the University of Kent found that social media platforms are amplifying extreme misogynistic content. Such content, it says, is now spreading from teenagers' screens and onto playgrounds where it has now become normalised. Shocking findings In this particular study, researchers looked at TikTok. They found that over a five-day period of monitoring, there was a four-fold increase in the level of misogynistic content the social media platform suggested. Suggested content included extreme videos that focussed on anger and blame directed at women. As per the Guardian, researchers say while the results may be from TikTok only, but that they are likely to apply to other social media platforms. Also read | Watch: US TikToker purchases foldable house from Amazon. Video goes viral The study called 'Safer Scrolling' argues that social media algorithms are pushing harmful content to teenagers and young people under the guise of entertainment. As per the study, toxic, hateful or misogynistic material is "pushed" to young people, normalising harmful ideologies. It says that boys with anxiety and mental health issues are at an increased risk from such content. Study methodology Researchers began by interviewing young people who engage with and producing radical online content. Based on the interviews, they established "archetypes, to represent typologies of teenage boys who may be vulnerable to becoming radicalised by online content." Based on that, they set up accounts on TikTok with specific content interests — for example, someone seeking out content on masculinity or addressing loneliness. Finally, researchers used this to watch video content suggestions on the 'for you' page over a period of seven days. Initially, content suggestions were in line with the chosen interests of each archetype. However, over time, it evolved into anger and blame directed at women. Five days into the research, TikTok was suggesting content such as objectification, sexual harassment or discrediting women — increasing four-fold, from 13 per cent of recommended videos to 56 per cent. Finally, roundtables and interviews with school leaders revealed that such misogynistic tropes are becoming normal in in-person interactions, as well. Also read | Meta slammed for 'incoherent' deepfake policy after viral Biden video "UCL's findings show that algorithms – which most of us know little about – have a snowball effect in which they serve up ever-more extreme content in the form of entertainment," remarks, Geoff Barton, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, which collaborated with the research. "This is deeply worrying in general but particularly so in respect of the amplification of messages around toxic masculinity and its impact on young people who need to be able to grow up and develop their understanding of the world without being influenced by such appalling material" he added, as quoted by The guardian. What the researchers recommend Researchers recommend a "healthy digital diet" education, holding social media companies accountable, peer-to-peer monitoring, and promotion of wider awareness of algorithmic processes among parents and the community at large. (With inputs from agencies)

Social media pushing youngsters towards more misogynistic content, finds study

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has pledged the removal of the 50% cap on reservations if the INDIA bloc comes to power after the Lok Sabha polls. This is in addition to his promise of a nationwide caste census. Watch this video for all details.

Will INDIA bloc remove a 50% cap on caste quota if voted to power?

<p>Mark Zuckerberg, the co-founder of Facebook, now Meta, on Sunday (Feb 4th) celebrated 20 years of the social media platform.</p>

<p>Posting a throwback video on Meta-owned social media platform Instagram, Zuckerberg wrote: "20 years ago, I launched a thing. Along the way, lots of amazing people joined, and we built some more awesome things. We're still at it, and the best is yet to come."</p>

<h2><strong>The video</strong></h2>

<p>The 25-second video, technically called a reel, featured the Meta CEO from his younger days, back when Facebook was first launched on February 4, 2004.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-satoshi-nakamoto-war-begins-in-the-uk-court-to-decide-on-bitcoin-founders-identity-687233">Who is Satoshi Nakamoto? 'War' begins in the UK, court to decide on Bitcoin founder’s identity</a></strong></p>

<p>Zuckerberg's&nbsp;video is a montage&nbsp;of photos and videos from the 20-year journey. It starts with a message "I have a feeling this is going to go by really fast," before moving on to feature the pictures and clips to Aerosmith's "Dream On."</p>

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<p>The video, among others, features&nbsp;Edwardo Saverin, who helped found Facebook. Zuckerberg and Saverin had a major falling out and engaged in a major legal battle, which saw the ex-friends filing lawsuits against one another.</p>

<p>Also featured are Zuckerberg's wife, Priscilla Chan, and former Meta Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg, who stepped down in 2022. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musks-illegal-drug-use-silence-of-board-and-money-ties-with-directors-what-wsjs-new-report-claims-687186">Musk’s ‘illegal drug use’, silence of board and money ties with directors: What WSJ’s new report claims</a></strong></p>

<p>He also posted several other posts to his account @zuck. One featured then-and-now pictures of him sitting at a desk working on computers. The pictures, which are 20 years apart, showcased widely different computer setups. One similarity the two shots shared is a variety of caffeine-laced drinks.</p>

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<h2><strong>Facebook: a short history</strong></h2>

<p>The platform was launched in 2004 and is credited with ushering in a new era of communication. It was Zuckerberg and co-founders Dustin Moskovitz and Eduardo Saverin.</p>

<p>Within months of its launch, Facebook hit one million active users. The following year, Facebook introduced the feature to add photos and also came up with news feed.</p>

<p>In 2009, it introduced the well-known 'like' button. By the end of the decade, the platform clocked 500 million active users.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, with the emergence of other popular platforms like TikTok, and Instagram, it has now got left behind, with mostly the older generation using it. In February 2022, as per Business Standard, Facebook's total number of users declined to 1.9 billion for the first time.</p>


Mark Zuckerberg, the co-founder of Facebook, now Meta, on Sunday (Feb 4th) celebrated 20 years of the social media platform. Posting a throwback video on Meta-owned social media platform Instagram, Zuckerberg wrote: "20 years ago, I launched a thing.

Mark Zuckerberg, the co-founder of Facebook, now Meta, on Sunday (Feb 4th) celebrated 20 years of the social media platform. Posting a throwback video on Meta-owned social media platform Instagram, Zuckerberg wrote: "20 years ago, I launched a thing. Along the way, lots of amazing people joined, and we built some more awesome things. We're still at it, and the best is yet to come." The video The 25-second video, technically called a reel, featured the Meta CEO from his younger days, back when Facebook was first launched on February 4, 2004. Also read | Who is Satoshi Nakamoto? 'War' begins in the UK, court to decide on Bitcoin founder’s identity Zuckerberg's video is a montage of photos and videos from the 20-year journey. It starts with a message "I have a feeling this is going to go by really fast," before moving on to feature the pictures and clips to Aerosmith's "Dream On." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mark Zuckerberg (@zuck) × The video, among others, features Edwardo Saverin, who helped found Facebook. Zuckerberg and Saverin had a major falling out and engaged in a major legal battle, which saw the ex-friends filing lawsuits against one another. Also featured are Zuckerberg's wife, Priscilla Chan, and former Meta Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg, who stepped down in 2022. Also read | Musk’s ‘illegal drug use’, silence of board and money ties with directors: What WSJ’s new report claims He also posted several other posts to his account @zuck. One featured then-and-now pictures of him sitting at a desk working on computers. The pictures, which are 20 years apart, showcased widely different computer setups. One similarity the two shots shared is a variety of caffeine-laced drinks. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mark Zuckerberg (@zuck) × Facebook: a short history The platform was launched in 2004 and is credited with ushering in a new era of communication. It was Zuckerberg and co-founders Dustin Moskovitz and Eduardo Saverin. Within months of its launch, Facebook hit one million active users. The following year, Facebook introduced the feature to add photos and also came up with news feed. In 2009, it introduced the well-known 'like' button. By the end of the decade, the platform clocked 500 million active users. However, with the emergence of other popular platforms like TikTok, and Instagram, it has now got left behind, with mostly the older generation using it. In February 2022, as per Business Standard, Facebook's total number of users declined to 1.9 billion for the first time.

‘The best is yet to come’: Mark Zuckerberg celebrates 20 years of Facebook

<p>A big showdown is underway in the United Kingdom over who's the real creator of Bitcoin. For years, an Aussie computer scientist named Craig Wright has claimed that he's the mysterious Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonym used by the author of the 2008 white paper behind Bitcoin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, he has failed to back his claims and people in the crypto world are not buying it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, a group called the Crypto Open Patent Alliance (Copa), with support from Jack Dorsey's company Block and Coinbase, is taking Wright to court. They want the judge to say that Wright is not Nakamoto officially.</p>

<h2><strong>Why was a lawsuit needed?</strong></h2>

<p>Over the years, Wright's claims and the widespread scepticism around them have led to several legal clashes.</p>

<p>With this case, Copa hopes to stop Wright from challenging others who are working to develop Bitcoin-related projects. The trial is expected to last about a month and will be held at the high court in England and Wales.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/bitcoin-plummets-to-40000-hits-lowest-point-since-etf-debut-682753">Bitcoin plummets to $40,000, hits lowest point since ETF debut</a></strong></p>

<p>The Guardian quotes a Copa spokesperson as saying that the case would "conclusively show that Dr Wright is not Satoshi Nakamoto and will not be able to continue to threaten developers."</p>

<p>Wright, who's been saying he's Nakamoto for years, last month offered to settle the case, but Copa rejected his offer.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Bitcoin miners ignore climate action calls</strong></p>

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<p>It said that the offer came with loopholes "that would allow him to sue people all over again".</p>

<p>Now, the trial is a big deal for anyone involved in Bitcoin projects and the wider crypto community.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Nakamoto?</strong></h2>

<p>Bitcoin's creator, mythically known as Nakamoto, published a paper in 2008 that became the basis for the cryptocurrency. Nakamoto interacted with the first Bitcoin users but vanished in 2011. Since then, people have been guessing who Nakamoto is. Wright came forward in 2016, but he hasn't been able to prove it because he hasn't shown the private keys needed to access the original bitcoins Nakamoto mined.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lufthansa-faces-turbulence-airlines-groundstaff-to-stage-one-day-strike-over-pay-dispute-687189">Lufthansa faces turbulence: Airlines ground staff to stage one-day strike over pay dispute</a></strong></p>

<p>The trial will dig into evidence from both sides, including Copa's claim that some of Wright's proof is fake.</p>

<p>This isn't Wright's first legal rodeo. In 2022, he won a case against a blogger who said his Nakamoto claim was fake, but he only got a tiny amount of £1 in damages. The current trial will tackle various cases related to the identity dispute, with Wright facing questioning for six days starting Tuesday. The verdict could affect the rules and procedures for how the Bitcoin system works, especially since Wright supports a version called Bitcoin Satoshi Vision (BSV).</p>

<p>Labelling the trial "a war," a spokesperson for Wright said: "Think of it as a modern-day tech battle, akin to that between Blu-ray and HD DVD or, for even older readers, Betamax versus VHS."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A big showdown is underway in the United Kingdom over who's the real creator of Bitcoin. For years, an Aussie computer scientist named Craig Wright has claimed that he's the mysterious Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonym used by the author of the 2008 white paper behind Bitcoin.

A big showdown is underway in the United Kingdom over who's the real creator of Bitcoin. For years, an Aussie computer scientist named Craig Wright has claimed that he's the mysterious Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonym used by the author of the 2008 white paper behind Bitcoin. However, he has failed to back his claims and people in the crypto world are not buying it. Now, a group called the Crypto Open Patent Alliance (Copa), with support from Jack Dorsey's company Block and Coinbase, is taking Wright to court. They want the judge to say that Wright is not Nakamoto officially. Why was a lawsuit needed? Over the years, Wright's claims and the widespread scepticism around them have led to several legal clashes. With this case, Copa hopes to stop Wright from challenging others who are working to develop Bitcoin-related projects. The trial is expected to last about a month and will be held at the high court in England and Wales. Also read | Bitcoin plummets to $40,000, hits lowest point since ETF debut The Guardian quotes a Copa spokesperson as saying that the case would "conclusively show that Dr Wright is not Satoshi Nakamoto and will not be able to continue to threaten developers." Wright, who's been saying he's Nakamoto for years, last month offered to settle the case, but Copa rejected his offer. Watch | Bitcoin miners ignore climate action calls × It said that the offer came with loopholes "that would allow him to sue people all over again". Now, the trial is a big deal for anyone involved in Bitcoin projects and the wider crypto community. Who is Nakamoto? Bitcoin's creator, mythically known as Nakamoto, published a paper in 2008 that became the basis for the cryptocurrency. Nakamoto interacted with the first Bitcoin users but vanished in 2011. Since then, people have been guessing who Nakamoto is. Wright came forward in 2016, but he hasn't been able to prove it because he hasn't shown the private keys needed to access the original bitcoins Nakamoto mined. Also read | Lufthansa faces turbulence: Airlines ground staff to stage one-day strike over pay dispute The trial will dig into evidence from both sides, including Copa's claim that some of Wright's proof is fake. This isn't Wright's first legal rodeo. In 2022, he won a case against a blogger who said his Nakamoto claim was fake, but he only got a tiny amount of £1 in damages. The current trial will tackle various cases related to the identity dispute, with Wright facing questioning for six days starting Tuesday. The verdict could affect the rules and procedures for how the Bitcoin system works, especially since Wright supports a version called Bitcoin Satoshi Vision (BSV). Labelling the trial "a war," a spokesperson for Wright said: "Think of it as a modern-day tech battle, akin to that between Blu-ray and HD DVD or, for even older readers, Betamax versus VHS." (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Satoshi Nakamoto? 'War' begins in the UK court to decide on Bitcoin founder’s identity

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<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Feb 5) replied to the ‘Motion of Thanks’ on President Droupadi Murmu's address, delivered on January 31, the first day of the budget session of the Parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In front of a packed Lower House (Lok Sabha) after the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) issued a three-line whip to all its MPs to remain present, PM Modi went all out in taking jabs at the opposition whilst enumerating his government's achievements over his last two terms in the past 10 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Here are the key takeaways from the PM Modi's address:&nbsp;</p>

<h2><b>Jibe at opposition</b></h2>

<p>Taking a jibe at the opposition in what could be his last address in the House before the general elections, PM Modi said:&nbsp;"I see that many of you (opposition) have even lost the courage to contest elections. Some seats were changed last time too, I have heard that many people are looking to change their seats this time as well."&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have also heard that many people now want to go to Rajya Sabha instead of Lok Sabha. They are looking for their paths by assessing the situation," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/many-have-lost-courage-to-fight-elections-pm-modi-takes-a-jibe-at-opposition-ahead-of-2024-polls-687195"><strong>Also read | 'Many have lost courage to fight elections': PM Modi takes a jibe at opposition ahead of 2024 polls</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Congress and its ‘cancel culture’</strong></h2>

<p>Perhaps for the first time, the term cancel culture came out of PM Modi's vocabulary as he targeted Congress.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Congress is trapped in a cancel culture. They cancel Vande Bharat Trains, Make in India and the new Parliament building. They cancel every achievement of India," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The PM also took shots at the INDIA bloc that remains on the verge of collapsing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There are evident signs that the alignment within the ‘alliance’ has become dysfunctional. When there is a lack of trust among alliance partners, it raises concerns about their ability to foster trust at the national level. Much of our time has been spent addressing the voids created by the Congress party, and the current state of the alliance suggests a need for reevaluation.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | PM Narendra Modi says, "I see that many of you (Opposition) have even lost the courage to contest elections. Some seats were changed last time too, I have heard that many people are looking to change their seats this time as well. I have also heard that many people now… <a href="https://t.co/M6IDnozP3j">pic.twitter.com/M6IDnozP3j</a></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Projecting BJP's seat tally&nbsp;after polls</strong></h2>

<p>"The third term of our government is not very far now. Only 100-125 days remain to go...I don't go into numbers but I can see the mood of the country. It will make the NDA cross 400 and BJP will definitely get 370 seats...The third term will be about taking very big decisions," said PM Modi while alluding to the Article 370 that was scrapped by his government.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Third largest economy</strong></h2>

<p>Apart from giving a rough estimate about the seat tally, PM Modi gave a "guarantee"&nbsp;that India "will become the third largest economy in the world after the US and China in his third term".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>New Parliament building</strong></h2>

<p>The PM reflected on the new Parliament building and how it was a symbol of democracy rising in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When the President came to this new Parliament building to address all of us and the pride and honour with which the 'Sengol' led the entire procession - we were walking behind it. When we become a witness to the reflection of that holy moment of India's independence in this new tradition in the new Parliament building, the honour of democracy rises," said PM Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Feb 5) replied to the ‘Motion of Thanks’ on President Droupadi Murmu's address, delivered on January 31, the first day of the budget session of the Parliament.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Feb 5) replied to the ‘Motion of Thanks’ on President Droupadi Murmu's address, delivered on January 31, the first day of the budget session of the Parliament. In front of a packed Lower House (Lok Sabha) after the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) issued a three-line whip to all its MPs to remain present, PM Modi went all out in taking jabs at the opposition whilst enumerating his government's achievements over his last two terms in the past 10 years. Here are the key takeaways from the PM Modi's address: Jibe at opposition Taking a jibe at the opposition in what could be his last address in the House before the general elections, PM Modi said: "I see that many of you (opposition) have even lost the courage to contest elections. Some seats were changed last time too, I have heard that many people are looking to change their seats this time as well." "I have also heard that many people now want to go to Rajya Sabha instead of Lok Sabha. They are looking for their paths by assessing the situation," he added. Also read | 'Many have lost courage to fight elections': PM Modi takes a jibe at opposition ahead of 2024 polls Congress and its ‘cancel culture’ Perhaps for the first time, the term cancel culture came out of PM Modi's vocabulary as he targeted Congress. "Congress is trapped in a cancel culture. They cancel Vande Bharat Trains, Make in India and the new Parliament building. They cancel every achievement of India," he said. The PM also took shots at the INDIA bloc that remains on the verge of collapsing. "There are evident signs that the alignment within the ‘alliance’ has become dysfunctional. When there is a lack of trust among alliance partners, it raises concerns about their ability to foster trust at the national level. Much of our time has been spent addressing the voids created by the Congress party, and the current state of the alliance suggests a need for reevaluation.” #WATCH | PM Narendra Modi says, "I see that many of you (Opposition) have even lost the courage to contest elections. Some seats were changed last time too, I have heard that many people are looking to change their seats this time as well. I have also heard that many people now… pic.twitter.com/M6IDnozP3j — ANI (@ANI) February 5, 2024 × Projecting BJP's seat tally after polls "The third term of our government is not very far now. Only 100-125 days remain to go...I don't go into numbers but I can see the mood of the country. It will make the NDA cross 400 and BJP will definitely get 370 seats...The third term will be about taking very big decisions," said PM Modi while alluding to the Article 370 that was scrapped by his government. Third largest economy Apart from giving a rough estimate about the seat tally, PM Modi gave a "guarantee" that India "will become the third largest economy in the world after the US and China in his third term". New Parliament building The PM reflected on the new Parliament building and how it was a symbol of democracy rising in the country. "When the President came to this new Parliament building to address all of us and the pride and honour with which the 'Sengol' led the entire procession - we were walking behind it. When we become a witness to the reflection of that holy moment of India's independence in this new tradition in the new Parliament building, the honour of democracy rises," said PM Modi. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Cancel culture to 370+ seats’: Key takeaways from PM Modi’s Parliament speech

<p>The planned departure of the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, which was set to lead the largest NATO exercise since the Cold War, has been abruptly cancelled after an issue with a propeller shaft was detected during final checks.</p>

<p>HMS Queen Elizabeth will now be replaced by HMS Prince of Wales in the NATO exercises involving over 40 vessels.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A routine problem?</strong></h2>

<p>This setback follows a similar incident 18 months ago when the sister ship, HMS Prince of Wales, experienced a breakdown off the Isle of Wight due to a malfunction with a coupling on its starboard propeller.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scotland-set-to-increase-minimum-alcohol-price-by-30-to-curb-health-crisis-687169">Scotland set to increase minimum alcohol price by 30% to curb health crisis</a></strong></p>

<p>On X, formerly Twitter, the Royal Navy posted: "Routine pre-sailing checks yesterday identified an issue with a coupling on HMS Queen Elizabeth starboard propeller shaft. As such, the ship will not sail on Sunday."</p>

<p>"HMS Prince of Wales will take her place on NATO duties and will set sail for exercise Steadfast Defender as soon as possible."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Routine pre-sailing checks yesterday identified an issue with a coupling on <a href="https://twitter.com/HMSQNLZ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HMSQNLZ</a> starboard propeller shaft. As such, the ship will not sail on Sunday.<a href="https://twitter.com/HMSPWLS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HMSPWLS</a> will take her place on NATO duties and will set sail for Exercise Steadfast Defender as soon as possible. <a href="https://t.co/ImAeTU80vi">pic.twitter.com/ImAeTU80vi</a></p>
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<p>As per the Independent, it is primed to lead a carrier strike involving eight ships, with four British vessels, including the frigate HMS Somerset and two Tide-class tankers from the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. It would be supported by vessels from the US, Spain, and Denmark.</p>

<p>Also joining the strike are F-35B Lightning stealth fighters from the 617 "Dambusters" Squadron at RAF Marham, along with submarine hunting and airborne early warning Merlin Mk2 helicopters from RNAS Culdrose. Battlefield Wildcat helicopters of 847 Naval Air Squadron from RNAS Yeovilton are also part of the line-up.</p>

<p>The cancellation comes amid warnings that Britain is ill-prepared for an all-out war due to stockpile shortages and an armed forces recruitment crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lufthansa-faces-turbulence-airlines-groundstaff-to-stage-one-day-strike-over-pay-dispute-687189">Lufthansa faces turbulence: Airlines groundstaff to stage one-day strike over pay dispute</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the House of Commons defense committee, the military is "consistently overstretched", exacerbated by recruitment and retention challenges that have seen more people leaving than joining the armed forces, reports the Independent.</p>

<p>The cross-party group of MPs also said that the nation's military has been "hollowed out", leaving the UK unprepared for war amid increasing global instability.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The planned departure of the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, which was set to lead the largest NATO exercise since the Cold War, has been abruptly cancelled after an issue with a propeller shaft was detected during final checks.

The planned departure of the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, which was set to lead the largest NATO exercise since the Cold War, has been abruptly cancelled after an issue with a propeller shaft was detected during final checks. HMS Queen Elizabeth will now be replaced by HMS Prince of Wales in the NATO exercises involving over 40 vessels. A routine problem? This setback follows a similar incident 18 months ago when the sister ship, HMS Prince of Wales, experienced a breakdown off the Isle of Wight due to a malfunction with a coupling on its starboard propeller. Also read | Scotland set to increase minimum alcohol price by 30% to curb health crisis On X, formerly Twitter, the Royal Navy posted: "Routine pre-sailing checks yesterday identified an issue with a coupling on HMS Queen Elizabeth starboard propeller shaft. As such, the ship will not sail on Sunday." "HMS Prince of Wales will take her place on NATO duties and will set sail for exercise Steadfast Defender as soon as possible." Routine pre-sailing checks yesterday identified an issue with a coupling on @HMSQNLZ starboard propeller shaft. As such, the ship will not sail on Sunday.@HMSPWLS will take her place on NATO duties and will set sail for Exercise Steadfast Defender as soon as possible. pic.twitter.com/ImAeTU80vi — Royal Navy (@RoyalNavy) February 3, 2024 × As per the Independent, it is primed to lead a carrier strike involving eight ships, with four British vessels, including the frigate HMS Somerset and two Tide-class tankers from the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. It would be supported by vessels from the US, Spain, and Denmark. Also joining the strike are F-35B Lightning stealth fighters from the 617 "Dambusters" Squadron at RAF Marham, along with submarine hunting and airborne early warning Merlin Mk2 helicopters from RNAS Culdrose. Battlefield Wildcat helicopters of 847 Naval Air Squadron from RNAS Yeovilton are also part of the line-up. The cancellation comes amid warnings that Britain is ill-prepared for an all-out war due to stockpile shortages and an armed forces recruitment crisis. Also read | Lufthansa faces turbulence: Airlines groundstaff to stage one-day strike over pay dispute As per the House of Commons defense committee, the military is "consistently overstretched", exacerbated by recruitment and retention challenges that have seen more people leaving than joining the armed forces, reports the Independent. The cross-party group of MPs also said that the nation's military has been "hollowed out", leaving the UK unprepared for war amid increasing global instability. (With inputs from agencies)

Royal Navy’s HMS Queen Elizabeth pulls out of NATO exercise after propeller shaft snag

<p>Scotland is reportedly gearing up for a notable 30 per cent hike in the lowest price of alcoholic beverages, a move aimed at tackling alcohol-related health problems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ministers in Edinburgh, as per the Guardian, are likely to confirm the increase from 50p to 65p per unit starting in May, a step taken six years after Scotland led the UK in introducing this pricing strategy.</p>

<p><strong>Also&nbsp;read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pablo-escobars-cocaine-hippos-attacking-people-in-colombia-687134">Pablo Escobar's 'cocaine hippos' attacking people in Colombia</a></strong></p>

<p>The proposed 65p minimum unit price is meant to keep up with inflation and maintain control over the sale of inexpensive alcohol. Advocates for public health welcome this, emphasising its potential to improve overall well-being. Under the revised pricing, a standard bottle of whisky in Scotland is expected to cost £18.20 ($22.92), vodka £16.90 ($21.28), and a four-pack of basic lager £4.58 ($5.77).</p>

<h2><strong>Scotland and deaths because of alcohol</strong></h2>

<p>Last year, Public Health Scotland reported a positive impact, with a 13.5 per cent drop in deaths solely linked to alcohol minimum pricing.</p>

<p>However, the country has seen a worrying 25 per cent rise in alcohol-related deaths in the last three years, coupled with a 40 per cent decline in people seeking alcohol treatment services over a decade.</p>

<h2><strong>For and against&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Willie Rennie, the former leader of Scottish Liberal Democrats and now the party's economy spokesperson, as per the report expressed his happiness over the move.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-japan-simulate-military-exercise-to-counter-chinese-threat-against-taiwan-687137">US-Japan simulate military exercise to counter Chinese threat against Taiwan</a></strong></p>

<p>A long-time champion of the measure, Rennie said, "More than 20 people a week in Scotland die due to alcohol misuse, so we need to take steps to stop alcohol wrecking lives and communities."</p>

<p>"That's before you even get to the pressure that it imposes on our health and justice systems," he said.</p>

<p>However, the Wine and Spirit Trade Association is reportedly planning to argue for the elimination of minimum pricing.</p>

<p>"Targeted measures have significantly greater impact without penalising the vast majority who do drink responsibly," said the trade association's consumer affairs director David Richardson.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Scottish Labour supports the policy but suggested an additional alcohol levy on retailers. This levy, they propose, would tax the extra profits retailers make due to minimum pricing, directing the funds towards the NHS and efforts to combat addiction.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scotland is reportedly gearing up for a notable 30 per cent hike in the lowest price of alcoholic beverages, a move aimed at tackling alcohol-related health problems.

Scotland is reportedly gearing up for a notable 30 per cent hike in the lowest price of alcoholic beverages, a move aimed at tackling alcohol-related health problems. Ministers in Edinburgh, as per the Guardian, are likely to confirm the increase from 50p to 65p per unit starting in May, a step taken six years after Scotland led the UK in introducing this pricing strategy. Also read | Pablo Escobar's 'cocaine hippos' attacking people in Colombia The proposed 65p minimum unit price is meant to keep up with inflation and maintain control over the sale of inexpensive alcohol. Advocates for public health welcome this, emphasising its potential to improve overall well-being. Under the revised pricing, a standard bottle of whisky in Scotland is expected to cost £18.20 ($22.92), vodka £16.90 ($21.28), and a four-pack of basic lager £4.58 ($5.77). Scotland and deaths because of alcohol Last year, Public Health Scotland reported a positive impact, with a 13.5 per cent drop in deaths solely linked to alcohol minimum pricing. However, the country has seen a worrying 25 per cent rise in alcohol-related deaths in the last three years, coupled with a 40 per cent decline in people seeking alcohol treatment services over a decade. For and against Willie Rennie, the former leader of Scottish Liberal Democrats and now the party's economy spokesperson, as per the report expressed his happiness over the move. Also read | US-Japan simulate military exercise to counter Chinese threat against Taiwan A long-time champion of the measure, Rennie said, "More than 20 people a week in Scotland die due to alcohol misuse, so we need to take steps to stop alcohol wrecking lives and communities." "That's before you even get to the pressure that it imposes on our health and justice systems," he said. However, the Wine and Spirit Trade Association is reportedly planning to argue for the elimination of minimum pricing. "Targeted measures have significantly greater impact without penalising the vast majority who do drink responsibly," said the trade association's consumer affairs director David Richardson. Meanwhile, Scottish Labour supports the policy but suggested an additional alcohol levy on retailers. This levy, they propose, would tax the extra profits retailers make due to minimum pricing, directing the funds towards the NHS and efforts to combat addiction. (With inputs from agencies)

Scotland set to increase minimum alcohol price by 30% to curb health crisis

<p>In the latest development on Middle East crisis,&nbsp;John Kirby, the White House national security spokesman said the recent US&nbsp;strikes on Iran-backed groups on Friday night (Feb 2) mark only the initial phase of action, with further measures to follow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the Indian state of Jharkhand, Chief Minister Champai Soren's government is poised for a victory in the floor test scheduled for Monday (Feb 5).</p>

<p>In other news, Chinese-origin Australian writer Yang Hengjun, accused of espionage by China, received a suspended death sentence from a Beijing court.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more.</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-us-may-launch-additional-strikes-against-iran-backed-groups-686946">Middle East Crisis: US may launch additional strikes against Iran-backed groups</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/04/409987-us-and-uk-air-strikes-on-houthi-positions.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>White House national security spokesman John Kirby on Sunday (Feb 4) that the strikes which took place Friday night by the United States against Iran-backed groups were just the "first round" of action and more will follow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US military hit Tehran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria were a retaliation for a deadly attack on US troops in Jordan, which killed three US soldiers. A day after that, the US and the United Kingdom unleashed attacks on the Iran-aligned Houthis of Yemen late on Saturday in a joint action.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-floor-test-today-champai-govt-confident-of-win-ex-cm-soren-to-cast-vote-687009">Jharkhand floor test today: Champai govt confident of win, ex-CM Soren to cast vote</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/05/410034-untitled-design-2.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>A floor test in the Indian state of Jharkhand will take place on Monday (Feb 5) with Chief Minister Champai Soren's government confident of a win. Former chief minister Hemant Soren, who has been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), will cast his vote in the floor test. Champai Soren became the CM last week following political upheaval in the state.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-grammy-awards-2024-full-list-of-winners-updating-live-686970">Grammy Awards 2024: Full list of winners (updating live)</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/05/410030-horizons-5.jpg?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>Music’s biggest night is here as The Recording Academy brought out its big guns to acknowledge the best in the world of music last year. Ahead of the main televised event, Grammys premiere ceremony began at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. While Elaine Martone picked up her Grammy for being the Producer of the Year in Classical music, Michelle Obama won Best Audio Book, Narration, and Storytelling Recording for&nbsp;<em>The Light We Carry: Overcoming In Uncertain Times.&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-writer-yang-hengjun-given-suspended-death-sentence-in-china-687028">Australian writer Yang Hengjun given suspended death sentence in China</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/05/410048-untitled-design-3.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>Australian writer Yang Hengjun a suspended death, who was accused of espionage by China, was given a suspended death sentence by a court in Beijing on Monday (Feb 5). According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Sydney-based scholar Feng Chongyi said the court delivered a suspended death sentence that would convert to life imprisonment after two years.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Indian startups raised $732 million across 107 deals in January 2024</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-startups-raised-732-million-across-107-deals-in-january-2024-687032/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


In the latest development on Middle East crisis, John Kirby, the White House national security spokesman said the recent US strikes on Iran-backed groups on Friday night (Feb 2) mark only the initial phase of action, with further measures to follow.

In the latest development on Middle East crisis, John Kirby, the White House national security spokesman said the recent US strikes on Iran-backed groups on Friday night (Feb 2) mark only the initial phase of action, with further measures to follow. In the Indian state of Jharkhand, Chief Minister Champai Soren's government is poised for a victory in the floor test scheduled for Monday (Feb 5). In other news, Chinese-origin Australian writer Yang Hengjun, accused of espionage by China, received a suspended death sentence from a Beijing court. Click on the headlines to read more. Middle East Crisis: US may launch additional strikes against Iran-backed groups White House national security spokesman John Kirby on Sunday (Feb 4) that the strikes which took place Friday night by the United States against Iran-backed groups were just the "first round" of action and more will follow. The US military hit Tehran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria were a retaliation for a deadly attack on US troops in Jordan, which killed three US soldiers. A day after that, the US and the United Kingdom unleashed attacks on the Iran-aligned Houthis of Yemen late on Saturday in a joint action. Jharkhand floor test today: Champai govt confident of win, ex-CM Soren to cast vote A floor test in the Indian state of Jharkhand will take place on Monday (Feb 5) with Chief Minister Champai Soren's government confident of a win. Former chief minister Hemant Soren, who has been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), will cast his vote in the floor test. Champai Soren became the CM last week following political upheaval in the state. Grammy Awards 2024: Full list of winners (updating live) Music’s biggest night is here as The Recording Academy brought out its big guns to acknowledge the best in the world of music last year. Ahead of the main televised event, Grammys premiere ceremony began at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. While Elaine Martone picked up her Grammy for being the Producer of the Year in Classical music, Michelle Obama won Best Audio Book, Narration, and Storytelling Recording for The Light We Carry: Overcoming In Uncertain Times. Australian writer Yang Hengjun given suspended death sentence in China Australian writer Yang Hengjun a suspended death, who was accused of espionage by China, was given a suspended death sentence by a court in Beijing on Monday (Feb 5). According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Sydney-based scholar Feng Chongyi said the court delivered a suspended death sentence that would convert to life imprisonment after two years. Watch | Indian startups raised $732 million across 107 deals in January 2024

Morning news brief: US mulls more strikes on Iran-backed groups; Grammy Awards 2024, and more

<p>Four types of bacteria that can make humans sick on Earth may be able to survive and thrive under the harsh conditions of Mars if carried by the astronauts, according to a recent study published in the January version of <em>Astrobiology</em>.</p>

<p>The scientists placed&nbsp;colonies of Burkholderia cepacia, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Serratia marcescens in a box that stimulated the Mars-like environment,&nbsp;with its lack of water, scant atmospheric pressure, deadly ultraviolet radiation and toxic salts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These bacteria live harmlessly on us but can become pathogenic when stressed. Initially, scientists believed that regolith or soil imitating the Martian surface would have toxic effect in the cells and limit their growth.</p>

<p>However, to their surprise,&nbsp;they discovered its opposite effect on bacteria.&nbsp;Three of the species survived with&nbsp;Pseudomonas aeruginosa in particular growing steadily for up to three weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Microbiologist Tommaso Zaccaria who performed the experiment and his colleagues are now attempting to figure out how microbes managed to hold onto their lives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zaccaria posits that the bacteria may have managed to find&nbsp;small oases with enough water in the crannies of the regolith which provided&nbsp;nutrients and protection from the deadly UV radiation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-nasa-announces-plans-for-a-nuclear-rocket-555955"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint: NASA announces plans for a nuclear rocket</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Study results&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The scientists said the result of the study should prompt human missions to Mars to bring plenty of different antibiotics to deal with&nbsp;disease-causing bacteria surviving and perhaps mutating before reinfecting the astronaut.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, human missions would not want to accidentally mistake a terrestrial bug for a native Martian one during the research to find life.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“At the end of the day, we want to move forward and explore our solar system more. We try our best and that ultimately will lead to some really beautiful discoveries and some really cool history," said&nbsp;Zaccaria, who recommends that certain areas of the Red planet should be set aside like national parks where only robotic vehicles can enter.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientist-claims-we-may-have-discovered-life-on-mars-50-years-ago-but-killed-it-accidentally-629871"><strong>Also read | A scientist claims that humans found life on Mars 50 years ago, and then killed it accidentally</strong></a></p>

<p>Humanity has been searching for life on planets other than our home base&nbsp;to see if we can become an interplanetary species. Mars has long been touted as a potential candidate where this could be possible.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, the Perseverance rover is traversing the rough terrain of Mars. It is part of an international, interplanetary relay team created to unravel the secrets of our neighbourhood planet.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Four types of bacteria that can make humans sick on Earth may be able to survive and thrive under the harsh conditions of Mars if carried by the astronauts, according to a recent study published in the January version of Astrobiology.

Four types of bacteria that can make humans sick on Earth may be able to survive and thrive under the harsh conditions of Mars if carried by the astronauts, according to a recent study published in the January version of Astrobiology. The scientists placed colonies of Burkholderia cepacia, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Serratia marcescens in a box that stimulated the Mars-like environment, with its lack of water, scant atmospheric pressure, deadly ultraviolet radiation and toxic salts. These bacteria live harmlessly on us but can become pathogenic when stressed. Initially, scientists believed that regolith or soil imitating the Martian surface would have toxic effect in the cells and limit their growth. However, to their surprise, they discovered its opposite effect on bacteria. Three of the species survived with Pseudomonas aeruginosa in particular growing steadily for up to three weeks. Microbiologist Tommaso Zaccaria who performed the experiment and his colleagues are now attempting to figure out how microbes managed to hold onto their lives. Zaccaria posits that the bacteria may have managed to find small oases with enough water in the crannies of the regolith which provided nutrients and protection from the deadly UV radiation. Watch | WION Fineprint: NASA announces plans for a nuclear rocket × Study results The scientists said the result of the study should prompt human missions to Mars to bring plenty of different antibiotics to deal with disease-causing bacteria surviving and perhaps mutating before reinfecting the astronaut. Additionally, human missions would not want to accidentally mistake a terrestrial bug for a native Martian one during the research to find life. “At the end of the day, we want to move forward and explore our solar system more. We try our best and that ultimately will lead to some really beautiful discoveries and some really cool history," said Zaccaria, who recommends that certain areas of the Red planet should be set aside like national parks where only robotic vehicles can enter. Also read | A scientist claims that humans found life on Mars 50 years ago, and then killed it accidentally Humanity has been searching for life on planets other than our home base to see if we can become an interplanetary species. Mars has long been touted as a potential candidate where this could be possible. Currently, the Perseverance rover is traversing the rough terrain of Mars. It is part of an international, interplanetary relay team created to unravel the secrets of our neighbourhood planet. (With inputs from agencies)

Bacteria that make us sick might survive and thrive on Mars, study shows

<p>The United States has announced a steep hike in the fee for various categories of non-immigrant visas, including the H-1B, L-1 and EB-5. These visas, which are most popular among Indians, will affect thousands who apply every year.</p>

<p>As per a PTI news agency report, the hike will come into force starting April 1st. Here's all you need to know about the increased fee.</p>

<h2><strong>How much of a hike is there?</strong></h2>

<p>Starting April 1st, the application fee for an H-1B visa or form I-129 will be increased from the current USD 460 to USD 780 — a 69.5 per cent hike. Furthermore, the H-1B registration will be increased from USD 10 to USD 215, starting next year.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-h-1b-visa-renewal-online-drive-begins-heres-how-to-apply-685254">US H-1B visa renewal drive begins online. Here's how to apply</a></strong></p>

<p>The fee for L-1 visas has been hiked from the current USD 460 to USD 1,385 — a 201 per cent hike. This non-immigrant visa category is designed for intra-company transferees and allows multinational companies to transfer certain employees from their foreign offices to work in the US temporarily.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, investor visas or EB-5 visas will soon cost USD 11,160, instead of the current USD 3,675 — a 203 per cent increase.</p>

<h2><strong>Why have the visa fees been hiked?</strong></h2>

<p>The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) argues that the final rule changes will bring several benefits, including reduced administrative burdens and fee processing errors for the government. It is expected to enhance efficiency in the adjudicative process and enable a better assessment of the cost of providing services, allowing for better-aligned fees in future regulations.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-approves-sale-of-mq-9b-remotely-piloted-aircraft-to-india-686080">US approves sale of 31 MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft to India</a></strong></p>

<p>In its federal notification, the DHS said fee adjustments, as well as changes to the forms and fee structures used by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), will result in net costs, benefits, and transfer payments.</p>

<p>The estimated annualised net costs to the public over the 10 years (FY 2024 through FY 2033) are projected to be USD 157,005,952, discounted at three and seven per cent. The total net costs over a decade are estimated at USD 1,339,292,617 discounted at three per cent and USD 1,102,744,106 discounted at seven per cent.</p>

<h2><strong>What benefits can H-1B and other visa applicants expect?</strong></h2>

<p>Applicants and petitioners seeking immigration benefits will also reportedly experience benefits, including reduced fee processing errors, increased efficiency in the adjudicative process, simplification of the fee payment process for some forms, elimination of the USD 30 returned check fee, and, for many applicants, limited fee increases and additional fee exemptions to reduce financial burdens. The federal notification also notes minor reductions in visa application fees in several categories.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States has announced a steep hike in the fee for various categories of non-immigrant visas, including the H-1B, L-1 and EB-5. These visas, which are most popular among Indians, will affect thousands who apply every year.

The United States has announced a steep hike in the fee for various categories of non-immigrant visas, including the H-1B, L-1 and EB-5. These visas, which are most popular among Indians, will affect thousands who apply every year. As per a PTI news agency report, the hike will come into force starting April 1st. Here's all you need to know about the increased fee. How much of a hike is there? Starting April 1st, the application fee for an H-1B visa or form I-129 will be increased from the current USD 460 to USD 780 — a 69.5 per cent hike. Furthermore, the H-1B registration will be increased from USD 10 to USD 215, starting next year. Also read | US H-1B visa renewal drive begins online. Here's how to apply The fee for L-1 visas has been hiked from the current USD 460 to USD 1,385 — a 201 per cent hike. This non-immigrant visa category is designed for intra-company transferees and allows multinational companies to transfer certain employees from their foreign offices to work in the US temporarily. Additionally, investor visas or EB-5 visas will soon cost USD 11,160, instead of the current USD 3,675 — a 203 per cent increase. Why have the visa fees been hiked? The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) argues that the final rule changes will bring several benefits, including reduced administrative burdens and fee processing errors for the government. It is expected to enhance efficiency in the adjudicative process and enable a better assessment of the cost of providing services, allowing for better-aligned fees in future regulations. Also read | US approves sale of 31 MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft to India In its federal notification, the DHS said fee adjustments, as well as changes to the forms and fee structures used by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), will result in net costs, benefits, and transfer payments. The estimated annualised net costs to the public over the 10 years (FY 2024 through FY 2033) are projected to be USD 157,005,952, discounted at three and seven per cent. The total net costs over a decade are estimated at USD 1,339,292,617 discounted at three per cent and USD 1,102,744,106 discounted at seven per cent. What benefits can H-1B and other visa applicants expect? Applicants and petitioners seeking immigration benefits will also reportedly experience benefits, including reduced fee processing errors, increased efficiency in the adjudicative process, simplification of the fee payment process for some forms, elimination of the USD 30 returned check fee, and, for many applicants, limited fee increases and additional fee exemptions to reduce financial burdens. The federal notification also notes minor reductions in visa application fees in several categories. (With inputs from agencies)

US announces massive hike in H-1B and other visa fees. Here's all you need to know

<p>In a miraculous recovery for the books, a puppy's jaw regrew spontaneously after it was removed due to cancer. This marks the first of its kind incident for dogs of any age or breed. However, as per the Cornell website, this phenomenon has been reported in children.</p>

<h2><strong>A miracle</strong></h2>

<p>Tyson, a three-month-old puppy of French bulldog breed, was brought to Cornell's Dentistry and Oral Surgery Service for a cleft palate surgery when the primary veterinarian noticed a cancerous tumour on the dog's jaw.</p>

<p>In a statement, the dentistry and oral surgery resident Alexandra Wright, D.V.M., who led Tyson's care team, detailed that there was an oral papillary squamous cell carcinoma, which he said is a "malignant cancer in dogs."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/japans-moon-lander-goes-dormant-once-again-amazing-final-image-of-lunar-surface-see-it-here-686216">Japan's moon lander clicks final image before going dormant once again</a></strong></p>

<p>"Oral squamous cell carcinoma is the second-most common malignant oral tumour in dogs, and this papillary subtype has previously been reported in young dogs," he said.</p>

<p>Wright, along with co-authors Dr&nbsp;Nadine Fiani, associate clinical professor and section chief, and Dr Santiago Peralta, associate professor in the Dentistry and Oral Surgery Service, has published a report on this case in Frontiers in Veterinary Science.</p>

<p>Most of the puppy's lower left mandible had to be removed to remove the tumour. This, as per the veterinarians, meant Tyson would live a life without a fully functioning lower jaw.</p>

<p>The puppy's owners were sceptical about putting him through the surgery but chose to "give him a chance and continue with surgery."</p>

<p>"We had no idea his jaw would grow back!" they said.</p>

<h2><strong>How the miracle happened</strong></h2>

<p>According to Cornell College of Veterinary Science's website, the miraculous recovery was likely due to the Periosteum preserved during the surgery. Furthermore, the detection of cancer at an early age also helped the case.</p>

<p>The periosteum contains blood vessels and nerves that support the bone and are also crucial to the growth of the original mandibles.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/by-2050-the-world-will-see-a-whopping-77-increase-in-cancer-cases-predicts-who-report-686307">By 2050, the world will see a whopping 77% increase in cancer cases, predicts WHO report</a></strong></p>

<p>Wright speculates that "this was likely imperative to the regeneration of new bone."</p>

<p>However, the precise reason remains a mystery. Tyson's new mandible as per the report is "nearly as functional as the original, though it is technically considered abnormal because it no longer has certain features. For instance, there is no mandibular canal, where major blood vessels and nerves typically reside, and there are no teeth."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a miraculous recovery for the books, a puppy's jaw regrew spontaneously after it was removed due to cancer. This marks the first of its kind incident for dogs of any age or breed.

In a miraculous recovery for the books, a puppy's jaw regrew spontaneously after it was removed due to cancer. This marks the first of its kind incident for dogs of any age or breed. However, as per the Cornell website, this phenomenon has been reported in children. A miracle Tyson, a three-month-old puppy of French bulldog breed, was brought to Cornell's Dentistry and Oral Surgery Service for a cleft palate surgery when the primary veterinarian noticed a cancerous tumour on the dog's jaw. In a statement, the dentistry and oral surgery resident Alexandra Wright, D.V.M., who led Tyson's care team, detailed that there was an oral papillary squamous cell carcinoma, which he said is a "malignant cancer in dogs." Also read | Japan's moon lander clicks final image before going dormant once again "Oral squamous cell carcinoma is the second-most common malignant oral tumour in dogs, and this papillary subtype has previously been reported in young dogs," he said. Wright, along with co-authors Dr Nadine Fiani, associate clinical professor and section chief, and Dr Santiago Peralta, associate professor in the Dentistry and Oral Surgery Service, has published a report on this case in Frontiers in Veterinary Science. Most of the puppy's lower left mandible had to be removed to remove the tumour. This, as per the veterinarians, meant Tyson would live a life without a fully functioning lower jaw. The puppy's owners were sceptical about putting him through the surgery but chose to "give him a chance and continue with surgery." "We had no idea his jaw would grow back!" they said. How the miracle happened According to Cornell College of Veterinary Science's website, the miraculous recovery was likely due to the Periosteum preserved during the surgery. Furthermore, the detection of cancer at an early age also helped the case. The periosteum contains blood vessels and nerves that support the bone and are also crucial to the growth of the original mandibles. Also read | By 2050, the world will see a whopping 77% increase in cancer cases, predicts WHO report Wright speculates that "this was likely imperative to the regeneration of new bone." However, the precise reason remains a mystery. Tyson's new mandible as per the report is "nearly as functional as the original, though it is technically considered abnormal because it no longer has certain features. For instance, there is no mandibular canal, where major blood vessels and nerves typically reside, and there are no teeth." (With inputs from agencies)

Little puppy makes miraculous recovery, beats cancer and spontaneously regrows jaw

<p>By 2050, the global community as per World Health Organization (WHO) estimates will face a whopping 77 per cent increase in cancer cases.</p>

<p>A report by the WHO's cancer agency, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), predicts that in a little more than two decades, we will see more than 35 million new cancer cases. This is a 77 per cent increase from the estimated 20 million cases recorded in 2022.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/japans-moon-lander-goes-dormant-once-again-amazing-final-image-of-lunar-surface-see-it-here-686216">Japan's moon lander clicks final image before going dormant once again</a></strong></p>

<p>However, as per&nbsp;Dr Freddie Bray, Head of the Cancer Surveillance Branch at IARC, the impact of the increase "will not be felt evenly across countries."</p>

<h2><strong>Report findings</strong></h2>

<p>In the report released ahead of World Cancer Day, which is observed on February 4th, the IARC predicted a massive increase in the global cancer burden.</p>

<p>"The rapidly growing global cancer burden reflects both population ageing and growth, as well as changes to people’s exposure to risk factors, several of which are associated with socioeconomic development," said the WHO in its press release.</p>

<p>It identified tobacco, alcohol, and obesity as the key factors driving the increasing incidence of cancer. Air Pollution was mentioned as a key driver of environmental risk factors.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Cancer experts unveil groundbreaking discovery, eliminates need for invasive surgeries</strong></p>

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<p>Furthermore, it predicts that high HDI (Human Development Index) countries will experience the greatest absolute increase in incidence of cancer cases, with an additional 4.8 million new cases predicted in 2050 compared with 2022 estimates.</p>

<p>In a statement, the Head of the Cancer Surveillance Branch at IARC, said: "The impact of this increase will not be felt evenly across countries of different HDI levels. Those who have the fewest resources to manage their cancer burdens will bear the brunt of the global cancer burden."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/massive-clue-found-solving-why-80-pc-of-autoimmune-patients-are-women-686120">Massive clue found solving why 80 pc of autoimmune patients are women</a></strong></p>

<p>As per WHO, global estimates reveal "striking inequalities" in human development.</p>

<p>Dr Isabelle Soerjomataram, Deputy Head of the Cancer Surveillance Branch at IARC explains,&nbsp;"Women in lower HDI countries are 50 &nbsp;per cent less likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer than women in high HDI countries, yet they are at a much higher risk of dying of the disease due to late diagnosis and inadequate access to quality treatment."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


By 2050, the global community as per World Health Organization (WHO) estimates will face a whopping 77 per cent increase in cancer cases. A report by the WHO's cancer agency, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), predicts that in a little more than two decades, we will see more than 35 million new cancer cases.

By 2050, the global community as per World Health Organization (WHO) estimates will face a whopping 77 per cent increase in cancer cases. A report by the WHO's cancer agency, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), predicts that in a little more than two decades, we will see more than 35 million new cancer cases. This is a 77 per cent increase from the estimated 20 million cases recorded in 2022. Also read | Japan's moon lander clicks final image before going dormant once again However, as per Dr Freddie Bray, Head of the Cancer Surveillance Branch at IARC, the impact of the increase "will not be felt evenly across countries." Report findings In the report released ahead of World Cancer Day, which is observed on February 4th, the IARC predicted a massive increase in the global cancer burden. "The rapidly growing global cancer burden reflects both population ageing and growth, as well as changes to people’s exposure to risk factors, several of which are associated with socioeconomic development," said the WHO in its press release. It identified tobacco, alcohol, and obesity as the key factors driving the increasing incidence of cancer. Air Pollution was mentioned as a key driver of environmental risk factors. Watch | Cancer experts unveil groundbreaking discovery, eliminates need for invasive surgeries × Furthermore, it predicts that high HDI (Human Development Index) countries will experience the greatest absolute increase in incidence of cancer cases, with an additional 4.8 million new cases predicted in 2050 compared with 2022 estimates. In a statement, the Head of the Cancer Surveillance Branch at IARC, said: "The impact of this increase will not be felt evenly across countries of different HDI levels. Those who have the fewest resources to manage their cancer burdens will bear the brunt of the global cancer burden." Also read | Massive clue found solving why 80 pc of autoimmune patients are women As per WHO, global estimates reveal "striking inequalities" in human development. Dr Isabelle Soerjomataram, Deputy Head of the Cancer Surveillance Branch at IARC explains, "Women in lower HDI countries are 50 per cent less likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer than women in high HDI countries, yet they are at a much higher risk of dying of the disease due to late diagnosis and inadequate access to quality treatment." (With inputs from agencies)

By 2050, the world will see a whopping 77% increase in cancer cases, predicts WHO report

<p>A federal judge on Wednesday (Jan 31st) dismissed Disney's lawsuit against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. The lawsuit claimed that the Republican leader had illegally retaliated against the entertainment giant for criticising his "anti-woke" agenda and that he had allegedly used the state to punish the company.</p>

<h2><strong>The ruling</strong></h2>

<p>Reuters reports that in his ruling, US District Judge Allen Winsor said that Disney lacked standing to sue the governor or the secretary of commerce.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Tallahassee, Florida, Winsor also knocked down Disney's free-speech claims. He said that while the US's First Amendment prohibits government officials from retaliating against protected speech, a plaintiff — in this case, Disney — cannot bring a free speech challenge to an otherwise constitutional law, merely based on the subjective motivations of the lawmakers who passed it.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-one-should-go-through-zuckerberg-issues-apology-over-harm-caused-to-children-due-to-social-media-685688">Meta's Zuckerberg faces accusation of having 'blood on his hands', apologises to families</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Disney to Challenge Ruling</strong></h2>

<p>A spokesperson for Disney, as per Reuters, said that it was "an important case with serious implications for the rule of law, and it will not end here."</p>

<p>"If left unchallenged, this would set a dangerous precedent and give licence to states to weaponise their official powers to punish the expression of political viewpoints they disagree with. We are determined to press forward with our case," said the company's spokesperson.</p>

<h2><strong>DeSantis Vs Disney</strong></h2>

<p>DeSantis and Disney have been at loggerheads since 2022 when a spokesperson for the entertainment giant spoke out against a Republican governor-backed education bill concerning LGBTQ youth.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-says-significant-potential-in-us-india-drone-deal-685701">White House says 'significant potential' in US-India drone deal</a></strong></p>

<p>Following this, DeSantis reportedly pushed the Republican-controlled legislature to revoke Disney's special self-governance arrangement, which it had enjoyed since 1967. It had allowed the city-sized theme park to run its own zoning and infrastructure projects.</p>

<p>In April 2023, Disney sued DeSantis and members of a state board, characterising their actions as a "targeted campaign of government retaliation" that violated the company's right to free speech. The defendants had urged for the case's dismissal arguing that the company cannot sue over constitutionally enacted laws.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A federal judge on Wednesday (Jan 31st) dismissed Disney's lawsuit against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. The lawsuit claimed that the Republican leader had illegally retaliated against the entertainment giant for criticising his "anti-woke" agenda and that he had allegedly used the state to punish the company.

A federal judge on Wednesday (Jan 31st) dismissed Disney's lawsuit against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. The lawsuit claimed that the Republican leader had illegally retaliated against the entertainment giant for criticising his "anti-woke" agenda and that he had allegedly used the state to punish the company. The ruling Reuters reports that in his ruling, US District Judge Allen Winsor said that Disney lacked standing to sue the governor or the secretary of commerce. In Tallahassee, Florida, Winsor also knocked down Disney's free-speech claims. He said that while the US's First Amendment prohibits government officials from retaliating against protected speech, a plaintiff — in this case, Disney — cannot bring a free speech challenge to an otherwise constitutional law, merely based on the subjective motivations of the lawmakers who passed it. Also read | Meta's Zuckerberg faces accusation of having 'blood on his hands', apologises to families Disney to Challenge Ruling A spokesperson for Disney, as per Reuters, said that it was "an important case with serious implications for the rule of law, and it will not end here." "If left unchallenged, this would set a dangerous precedent and give licence to states to weaponise their official powers to punish the expression of political viewpoints they disagree with. We are determined to press forward with our case," said the company's spokesperson. DeSantis Vs Disney DeSantis and Disney have been at loggerheads since 2022 when a spokesperson for the entertainment giant spoke out against a Republican governor-backed education bill concerning LGBTQ youth. Also read | White House says 'significant potential' in US-India drone deal Following this, DeSantis reportedly pushed the Republican-controlled legislature to revoke Disney's special self-governance arrangement, which it had enjoyed since 1967. It had allowed the city-sized theme park to run its own zoning and infrastructure projects. In April 2023, Disney sued DeSantis and members of a state board, characterising their actions as a "targeted campaign of government retaliation" that violated the company's right to free speech. The defendants had urged for the case's dismissal arguing that the company cannot sue over constitutionally enacted laws. (With inputs from agencies)

US Federal judge dismisses Disney's case accusing Florida Governor DeSantis of retaliation

Tensions between Iran & U.S. are rising. U.S. plans to retaliate against an attack on a U.S. base. Washington presumes Tehran-aligned militants behind attack. Is U.S-Iran war imminent amid rising tensions? Watch this video for all details.

Is Iran hinting at war with US? Here’s what Iran’s military chief has to say

<p>In a groundbreaking move, a judge in Delaware has cancelled the whopping $56 billion pay package awarded to Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, back in 2018. The decision, given by Judge Kathaleen McCormick in Delaware Chancery Court, comes in response to a challenge from Tesla shareholder Richard Tornetta, who claimed Musk was overpaid.</p>

<p>The judge ruled that Tornetta was "entitled to rescission" and said the parties now need to "confer" and send a joint letter "identifying all issues, including fees, that need to be addressed to bring this matter to a conclusion at the trial level."</p>

<h2><strong>Stocks plummet</strong></h2>

<p>After the ruling, Tesla's stock, as per AFP, dropped over three per cent in after-hours trading.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-neuralink-installs-wireless-brain-chip-for-first-time-in-human-685001">Elon Musk announces first brain implant in a human patient by Neuralink</a></strong></p>

<p>Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Musk posted: "Never incorporate your company in the state of Delaware."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Never incorporate your company in the state of Delaware</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1752455348106166598?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>In another post, he recommended&nbsp;Nevada or Texas instead.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I recommend incorporating in Nevada or Texas if you prefer shareholders to decide matters</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1752486201083543842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Tesla CEO also put up a poll, in his usual fashion,&nbsp;asking followers to decide on what could be a major decision. He posted: "Should Tesla change its state of incorporation to Texas, home of its physical headquarters?" In just three hours the poll already has&nbsp;496,506 votes, with&nbsp;89.5 per cent voting 'Yes'.</p>

<p>The shareholders' representative, Greg Varallo, thanked the court for its decision, saying, "We are enormously grateful for the court's thorough and extraordinarily well-reasoned decision in turning back the Tesla board's absurdly outsized pay package for Musk." &nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that the court's work would "redound directly to the benefit of Tesla investors, who will see the dilution from this gargantuan pay package erased".</p>

<h2><strong>'Largest' compensation</strong></h2>

<p>Judge McCormick in her decision highlighted the extraordinary nature of Musk's 2018 pay plan, calling it "the largest potential compensation opportunity ever observed in public markets by multiple orders of magnitude."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The plan, valued at a maximum of $55.8 billion, allowed Musk to get Tesla shares in 12 parts if he met certain goals.</p>

<p>During the 2022 trial in Delaware, Musk defended the pay deal, talking about the tough time when investors "thought we would fail and go bankrupt."</p>

<p>He said, "We were in quite a tough position at the time. We were losing a lot of money," adding that "the probability of survival was extremely low."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/need-more-time-canada-to-continue-to-exclude-mental-health-patients-from-assisted-death-law-685017">'Need more time': Canada to continue to exclude mental health patients from assisted death law</a></strong></p>

<p>Judge McCormick criticised the "deeply flawed" process, leading to the approval of Musk's pay plan. She pointed to Musk's "extensive ties" with the people negotiating the deal, like Ira Ehrenpreis and Antonio Gracias, which she said compromised the negotiation.</p>

<p>"Given the collection of people tasked with negotiating on Tesla's behalf, it is unsurprising that there was no meaningful negotiation over any of the terms of the plan," she said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a groundbreaking move, a judge in Delaware has cancelled the whopping $56 billion pay package awarded to Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, back in 2018. The decision, given by Judge Kathaleen McCormick in Delaware Chancery Court, comes in response to a challenge from Tesla shareholder Richard Tornetta, who claimed Musk was overpaid.

In a groundbreaking move, a judge in Delaware has cancelled the whopping $56 billion pay package awarded to Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, back in 2018. The decision, given by Judge Kathaleen McCormick in Delaware Chancery Court, comes in response to a challenge from Tesla shareholder Richard Tornetta, who claimed Musk was overpaid. The judge ruled that Tornetta was "entitled to rescission" and said the parties now need to "confer" and send a joint letter "identifying all issues, including fees, that need to be addressed to bring this matter to a conclusion at the trial level." Stocks plummet After the ruling, Tesla's stock, as per AFP, dropped over three per cent in after-hours trading. Also read | Elon Musk announces first brain implant in a human patient by Neuralink Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Musk posted: "Never incorporate your company in the state of Delaware." Never incorporate your company in the state of Delaware — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 30, 2024 × In another post, he recommended Nevada or Texas instead. I recommend incorporating in Nevada or Texas if you prefer shareholders to decide matters — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 31, 2024 × The Tesla CEO also put up a poll, in his usual fashion, asking followers to decide on what could be a major decision. He posted: "Should Tesla change its state of incorporation to Texas, home of its physical headquarters?" In just three hours the poll already has 496,506 votes, with 89.5 per cent voting 'Yes'. The shareholders' representative, Greg Varallo, thanked the court for its decision, saying, "We are enormously grateful for the court's thorough and extraordinarily well-reasoned decision in turning back the Tesla board's absurdly outsized pay package for Musk." He added that the court's work would "redound directly to the benefit of Tesla investors, who will see the dilution from this gargantuan pay package erased". 'Largest' compensation Judge McCormick in her decision highlighted the extraordinary nature of Musk's 2018 pay plan, calling it "the largest potential compensation opportunity ever observed in public markets by multiple orders of magnitude." The plan, valued at a maximum of $55.8 billion, allowed Musk to get Tesla shares in 12 parts if he met certain goals. During the 2022 trial in Delaware, Musk defended the pay deal, talking about the tough time when investors "thought we would fail and go bankrupt." He said, "We were in quite a tough position at the time. We were losing a lot of money," adding that "the probability of survival was extremely low." Also read | 'Need more time': Canada to continue to exclude mental health patients from assisted death law Judge McCormick criticised the "deeply flawed" process, leading to the approval of Musk's pay plan. She pointed to Musk's "extensive ties" with the people negotiating the deal, like Ira Ehrenpreis and Antonio Gracias, which she said compromised the negotiation. "Given the collection of people tasked with negotiating on Tesla's behalf, it is unsurprising that there was no meaningful negotiation over any of the terms of the plan," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

After Judge cancels $56bn Tesla pay package, Musk warns 'never incorporate' companies in Delaware

<p>The United States has joined the list of countries that have suspended funding to the&nbsp;United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).&nbsp;This follows Israeli accusations that certain UNRWA personnel played a role in the October 7 attack orchestrated by Hamas.</p>

<p>In other news,&nbsp;a Delaware judge&nbsp;has cancelled the whopping $56 billion pay package awarded to Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, back in 2018.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, following an “in-flight emergency”, an American F-16 fighter jet crashed in waters off South Korea’s west coast.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-holds-back-300000-funding-to-un-agency-amid-allegations-of-ties-with-hamas-685310">US holds back $3,00,000 funding to UN agency amid allegations of ties with Hamas</a></strong></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/31/409020-wion-banners-prisha-6.jpg?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>In the wake of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) facing allegations of having ties with Hamas, the United States has decided to temporarily suspend approximately $300,000 in funding.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-f-16-fighter-jet-crashes-off-south-koreas-west-coast-after-in-flight-emergency-685318">US F-16 fighter jet crashes off South Korea’s west coast after ‘in-flight emergency’</a></strong></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/31/409022-wion-images-2024-01-31t084708593.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>An American F-16 fighter jet crashed in waters off South Korea’s west coast after experiencing an “in-flight emergency”&nbsp;on Wednesday (Jan 31), reported news agency Yonhap, in a second crash involving the aircraft in just over a month. The pilot was rescued, said the United States Air Force unit stationed in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-cancels-elon-musks-56-billion-tesla-pay-package-in-landmark-decision-685302">Judge cancels Elon Musk's $56 billion Tesla pay package in landmark decision</a></strong></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/31/409017-new-wion-2024-01-31t081041578.jpg?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>In a groundbreaking move, a judge in Delaware has cancelled the whopping $56 billion pay package awarded to Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, back in 2018. The decision, given by Judge Kathaleen McCormick in Delaware Chancery Court, comes in response to a challenge from Tesla shareholder Richard Tornetta, who claimed Musk was overpaid.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-an-interim-budget-how-is-it-different-from-a-regular-budget-685321">Budget 2024: What is an interim budget? How is it different from a regular budget?</a></strong></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/31/409028-untitled-design-21.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>An interim budget for 2024-25 will be presented by India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1, months before the country holds its next general elections.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Hamas studies new ceasefire proposal | New proposal pitches six-week ceasefire</strong></p>

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The United States has joined the list of countries that have suspended funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).

The United States has joined the list of countries that have suspended funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). This follows Israeli accusations that certain UNRWA personnel played a role in the October 7 attack orchestrated by Hamas. In other news, a Delaware judge has cancelled the whopping $56 billion pay package awarded to Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, back in 2018. Meanwhile, following an “in-flight emergency”, an American F-16 fighter jet crashed in waters off South Korea’s west coast. Click on the headlines to read more US holds back $3,00,000 funding to UN agency amid allegations of ties with Hamas In the wake of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) facing allegations of having ties with Hamas, the United States has decided to temporarily suspend approximately $300,000 in funding. US F-16 fighter jet crashes off South Korea’s west coast after ‘in-flight emergency’ An American F-16 fighter jet crashed in waters off South Korea’s west coast after experiencing an “in-flight emergency” on Wednesday (Jan 31), reported news agency Yonhap, in a second crash involving the aircraft in just over a month. The pilot was rescued, said the United States Air Force unit stationed in the country. Judge cancels Elon Musk's $56 billion Tesla pay package in landmark decision In a groundbreaking move, a judge in Delaware has cancelled the whopping $56 billion pay package awarded to Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, back in 2018. The decision, given by Judge Kathaleen McCormick in Delaware Chancery Court, comes in response to a challenge from Tesla shareholder Richard Tornetta, who claimed Musk was overpaid. Budget 2024: What is an interim budget? How is it different from a regular budget? An interim budget for 2024-25 will be presented by India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1, months before the country holds its next general elections. Watch | Hamas studies new ceasefire proposal | New proposal pitches six-week ceasefire

Morning news brief: US pauses funding to UNRWA, Musk's Tesla pay package cancelled, and more

<p>The latest list of the world's most corrupt countries has revealed that most nations globally are making little to no progress in tackling public sector corruption.</p>

<p>On Tuesday (Jan 30th), Transparency International released its 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI). As per the report, the "CPI global average remains unchanged at 43 for the twelfth year in a row, with more than two-thirds of countries scoring below 50."</p>

<p>This, it says, "indicates serious corruption problems."</p>

<h2><strong>The least corrupt countries</strong></h2>

<p>Denmark has once again emerged as a beacon of integrity, seizing the top position, boasting an impressive score of 90. Its stellar performance, which the report attributed to a "well-functioning justice system," secured its place at the forefront for an unprecedented sixth consecutive year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-cancels-elon-musks-56-billion-tesla-pay-package-in-landmark-decision-685302">Judge cancels Elon Musk's $56 billion Tesla pay package in landmark decision</a></strong></p>

<p>Following in Denmark's footsteps, Finland (87) and New Zealand (85) clinched the second and third spots in the esteemed ranking.</p>

<h2><strong>The most corrupt countries&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>As per the rankings, Somalia scrapes the bottom of the barrel with a dismal score of 11 on the index. It was closely trailed by Venezuela (13), Syria (13), South Sudan (13), and Yemen (16).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement to the press, François Valérian, Chair of Transparency International, said: "Corruption will continue to thrive until justice systems can punish wrongdoing and keep governments in check. When justice is bought or politically interfered with, it is the people that suffer. Leaders should fully invest in and guarantee the independence of institutions that uphold the law and tackle corruption. It is time to end impunity for corruption."</p>

<h2><strong>What about India?</strong></h2>

<p>The Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) ranks 180 countries and territories by their perceived levels of public sector corruption, according to experts and businesspeople.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-h-1b-visa-renewal-online-drive-begins-heres-how-to-apply-685254">US H-1B visa renewal drive begins online. Here's how to apply</a></strong></p>

<p>This year, India ranked 93rd with a score of 39/100. The ranking was a slight dip from 2022, when the nation, with a score of 40, held the 85th position.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India's neighbours Pakistan and Sri Lanka, as per the report, are grappling with a score of 29 and 34, respectively.</p>


The latest list of the world's most corrupt countries has revealed that most nations globally are making little to no progress in tackling public sector corruption.

The latest list of the world's most corrupt countries has revealed that most nations globally are making little to no progress in tackling public sector corruption. On Tuesday (Jan 30th), Transparency International released its 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI). As per the report, the "CPI global average remains unchanged at 43 for the twelfth year in a row, with more than two-thirds of countries scoring below 50." This, it says, "indicates serious corruption problems." The least corrupt countries Denmark has once again emerged as a beacon of integrity, seizing the top position, boasting an impressive score of 90. Its stellar performance, which the report attributed to a "well-functioning justice system," secured its place at the forefront for an unprecedented sixth consecutive year. Also read | Judge cancels Elon Musk's $56 billion Tesla pay package in landmark decision Following in Denmark's footsteps, Finland (87) and New Zealand (85) clinched the second and third spots in the esteemed ranking. The most corrupt countries As per the rankings, Somalia scrapes the bottom of the barrel with a dismal score of 11 on the index. It was closely trailed by Venezuela (13), Syria (13), South Sudan (13), and Yemen (16). In a statement to the press, François Valérian, Chair of Transparency International, said: "Corruption will continue to thrive until justice systems can punish wrongdoing and keep governments in check. When justice is bought or politically interfered with, it is the people that suffer. Leaders should fully invest in and guarantee the independence of institutions that uphold the law and tackle corruption. It is time to end impunity for corruption." What about India? The Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) ranks 180 countries and territories by their perceived levels of public sector corruption, according to experts and businesspeople. Also read | US H-1B visa renewal drive begins online. Here's how to apply This year, India ranked 93rd with a score of 39/100. The ranking was a slight dip from 2022, when the nation, with a score of 40, held the 85th position. India's neighbours Pakistan and Sri Lanka, as per the report, are grappling with a score of 29 and 34, respectively.

World's most and least corrupt countries revealed. How did India fare? Find out

<p>In India's Jharkhand, section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure&nbsp;(CrPC) has been put in place within a 100-metre radius of the Chief Minister Hemant Soren's residence in Raj Bhavan and Enforcement Directorate office in Ranchi. Amid&nbsp;allegations by the Bharatiya Janata Party that the JMM chief was "absconding" to avoid the Enforcement Directorate's probe into an alleged land scam case, Soren on Tuesday (Jan 30th) chaired a meeting with ministers of his ruling coalition.</p>

<p>This comes after Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials seized a luxury car belonging to the Jharkhand CM from his Delhi residence in connection with the ongoing probe into a money laundering case linked to an alleged land scam.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Section 144 CrPc imposed within 100 meters radius of Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren's residence, Raj Bhavan and ED office in Ranchi <a href="https://t.co/0A67WQykf5">pic.twitter.com/0A67WQykf5</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1752202425170289149?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>What is&nbsp;Section 144?</strong></h2>

<p>Section 144 of the CrPC of 1973 authorises the Executive Magistrate of any state or territory to issue an order to prohibit the assembly of four or more people in an area.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/enforcement-directorate-officials-arrive-at-residence-of-jharkhand-cm-hemant-soren-in-delhi-684909">ED team camps at Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s Delhi house, BJP claims he is ‘absconding’&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Soren to record statement on Wednesday</strong></h2>

<p>In a letter to the Enforcement Directorate, Soren said that he will record his statement before the agency officials at 1 pm on Wednesday (Jan 31st) at his Ranchi residence. He also alleged that questioning him at this time&nbsp;— around budget&nbsp;— was a political move and was meant to disrupt the functioning of his government.</p>

<p>"You are well aware that the Budget Session of the Legislative Assembly will be held between 2nd and 29th February 2024 and the undersigned will be pre-occupied with preparations for the same apart from other prior scheduled official engagements," said Soren's&nbsp;letter to ED's Ranchi office.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-modi-comes-to-power-there-will-be-dictatorship-says-congress-chief-kharge-685004">If Modi comes to power 'there will be dictatorship,' says Congress chief Kharge</a></strong></p>

<p>"In these circumstances, your insistence to record a further statement of the undersigned on or before 31 January 2024 reeks of malice and reveals your political agenda to disrupt the functioning of the State Government and prevent an elected representative of the people from discharging his official duties," it added.</p>

<p>The "acts are malafide and politically motivated (and) stand vindicated. The issuance of summon to the undersigned is wholly vexatious and in colourable exercise of powers given by the statute," alleged the letter.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In India's Jharkhand, section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) has been put in place within a 100-metre radius of the Chief Minister Hemant Soren's residence in Raj Bhavan and Enforcement Directorate office in Ranchi.

In India's Jharkhand, section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) has been put in place within a 100-metre radius of the Chief Minister Hemant Soren's residence in Raj Bhavan and Enforcement Directorate office in Ranchi. Amid allegations by the Bharatiya Janata Party that the JMM chief was "absconding" to avoid the Enforcement Directorate's probe into an alleged land scam case, Soren on Tuesday (Jan 30th) chaired a meeting with ministers of his ruling coalition. This comes after Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials seized a luxury car belonging to the Jharkhand CM from his Delhi residence in connection with the ongoing probe into a money laundering case linked to an alleged land scam. Section 144 CrPc imposed within 100 meters radius of Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren's residence, Raj Bhavan and ED office in Ranchi pic.twitter.com/0A67WQykf5 — ANI (@ANI) January 30, 2024 × What is Section 144? Section 144 of the CrPC of 1973 authorises the Executive Magistrate of any state or territory to issue an order to prohibit the assembly of four or more people in an area. Also read | ED team camps at Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s Delhi house, BJP claims he is ‘absconding’ Soren to record statement on Wednesday In a letter to the Enforcement Directorate, Soren said that he will record his statement before the agency officials at 1 pm on Wednesday (Jan 31st) at his Ranchi residence. He also alleged that questioning him at this time — around budget — was a political move and was meant to disrupt the functioning of his government. "You are well aware that the Budget Session of the Legislative Assembly will be held between 2nd and 29th February 2024 and the undersigned will be pre-occupied with preparations for the same apart from other prior scheduled official engagements," said Soren's letter to ED's Ranchi office. Also read | If Modi comes to power 'there will be dictatorship,' says Congress chief Kharge "In these circumstances, your insistence to record a further statement of the undersigned on or before 31 January 2024 reeks of malice and reveals your political agenda to disrupt the functioning of the State Government and prevent an elected representative of the people from discharging his official duties," it added. The "acts are malafide and politically motivated (and) stand vindicated. The issuance of summon to the undersigned is wholly vexatious and in colourable exercise of powers given by the statute," alleged the letter. (With inputs from agencies)

India: ‘Absconding’ Jharkhand CM Soren chairs meeting in Ranchi; Section 144 imposed around residence

<p>In a significant blow to Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, the nation's main opposition party, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)&nbsp;is reportedly gearing up to initiate an impeachment motion against him.</p>

<p>Reports indicate that the MDP has amassed enough signatures to proceed with the impeachment inquiry, although the submission is pending.</p>

<h2><strong>When will the impeachment motion be submitted?</strong></h2>

<p>According to a lawmaker from the MDP, "They have yet to submit it," as quoted by Sun.com.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another local media report, as quoted by the Business Standard, mentioned that the decision to pursue the impeachment bid was unanimous in the parliamentary group meeting of the MDP.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-government-files-case-over-rules-changes-simplifying-oppositions-impeachment-bid-685252">Maldives government files case over rules changes simplifying opposition’s impeachment bid</a></strong></p>

<p>In an exclusive conversation with WION, one of the MDP leaders said that the impeachment motion had been brought as the current government has jeopardised relations with old ally India.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How many votes are needed for the impeachment?</strong></h2>

<p>For an impeachment motion, a two-thirds majority is needed. Currently, the Maldivian Parliament consists of 80 members, down from the earlier 87.</p>

<p>According to local media, impeachment charges can be brought against the President with 56 votes.</p>

<p>The MDP and Democrats collectively hold more than 56 seats—45&nbsp;from the MDP and 13 from the Democrats. Additionally, the People's National Congress has 13, while there are three independents, and the Jumhooree Party and the Maldives Development Alliance (MDA) each have two members.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-opposition-appointed-prosecutor-general-stabbed-amid-political-crisis-685352">Maldives' opposition-appointed prosecutor general stabbed amid political crisis</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Impeachment amendment</strong></h2>

<p>In a political manoeuvre with strategic implications, seven lawmakers resigned from the Maldives Parliament in November. They did this to assume key roles in President Mohamed Muizzu's government. Despite the significance of this reshuffle, the country's election&nbsp;commission chose to forgo organising by-elections, citing the upcoming parliamentary polls set for 2024.</p>

<p>Seizing the moment, the primary opposition force, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), which boasts a majority in Parliament, deftly amended the standing orders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They brought the amendment so that the seats left vacant by departing lawmakers are not factored into the overall count of members of Parliament. As a result, the total number of MPs has undergone a reduction, shrinking from the initial 87 to a revised count of 80.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-opposition-agrees-to-submit-impeachment-motion-against-president-muizzu-684759">Maldives: Opposition to submit impeachment motion against President Muizzu</a></strong></p>

<p>This is particularly important in the context of impeachment proceedings against President Mohamed Muizzu. The amendment has effectively lowered the threshold for impeachment votes, now standing at 54, down from the prior requirement of 58.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the Hindustan Times, the country's attorney general's office has filed a case with the Supreme Court regarding the recent amendment to parliament's standing orders that allow opposition lawmakers to launch impeachment proceedings against the president.</p>

<p>Attorney General Ahmed Usham confirmed the filing of case on Sunday. However, the Supreme Court has yet to issue a statement.</p>

<p>In a related development, a day before the reported impeachment plans, the PPM-PNC coalition submitted no-confidence motions&nbsp;against Maldives Parliament Speaker Mohamed Aslam and Deputy Speaker Ahmed Saleem, both belonging to the MDP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The political landscape in the Maldives appears to be undergoing significant turbulence, as various factions assert their positions within the parliament.</p>

<h2><strong>Scuffle in parliament</strong></h2>

<p>The simmering tensions amid the government and opposition resulted in&nbsp;clashes amid legislators in the country's parliament over the approval of four members of the President's cabinet on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The impeachment motion comes barely 24 hours after the clashes in the Maldivian Parliament.&nbsp;Members of the government's PPM and PNC, in a disruptive move, clashed over parliamentary proceedings and the functioning of the speaker.</p>

<p>The scuffle unfolded after the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) declared its decision not to vote in favour of approving Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, Attorney General Ahmed Usham, Minister of Housing, Land and Urban Development Dr Ali Haidar, and Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed.</p>

<p>Videos capturing the scuffle between pro-government MPs and opposition lawmakers circulated widely on social media.</p>

<p>Exclusive visuals obtained by WION showed a heated altercation among lawmakers. Take a look here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Dramatic visuals from Maldives Parliament as opposition MPs are prevented from entering Parliament floor ahead of Parliamentary approval of Muizzu's Cabinet. <a href="https://t.co/mVc6TT1yp4">pic.twitter.com/mVc6TT1yp4</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1751560840384553352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The video showcases the dramatic scenes in the Maldives Parliament, depicting opposition MPs being prevented from entering the Parliament floor just ahead of the crucial parliamentary vote for Muizzu's Cabinet approval.</p>

<p>The ruling PPM-PNC coalition contends that denying parliamentary approval to Muizzu's cabinet equates to obstructing essential services provided by the government to its citizens.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maldives-parliament-proceedings-halted-as-mps-come-to-blows-684656"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Maldives parliament proceedings halted as MPs come to blows</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maldives-parliament-proceedings-halted-as-mps-come-to-blows-684656/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Who is Mohamed Muizzu?</strong></h2>

<p>Defeating the India-friendly former president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who leads MDP, 45-year-old Mohamed Muizzu assumed the nation's presidency in November.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his winning campaign, Muizzu had cast China's regional rival, India, and its influence as a threat to sovereignty.</p>

<p>Muizzu, who is perceived as pro-China, made headlines shortly after assuming the position by demanding the withdrawal of the Indian military stationed in the Maldives by March 15. The nation also sent a formal request to New Delhi in this regard.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a significant blow to Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, the nation's main opposition party, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) is reportedly gearing up to initiate an impeachment motion against him.

In a significant blow to Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, the nation's main opposition party, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) is reportedly gearing up to initiate an impeachment motion against him. Reports indicate that the MDP has amassed enough signatures to proceed with the impeachment inquiry, although the submission is pending. When will the impeachment motion be submitted? According to a lawmaker from the MDP, "They have yet to submit it," as quoted by Sun.com. Another local media report, as quoted by the Business Standard, mentioned that the decision to pursue the impeachment bid was unanimous in the parliamentary group meeting of the MDP. Also read | Maldives government files case over rules changes simplifying opposition’s impeachment bid In an exclusive conversation with WION, one of the MDP leaders said that the impeachment motion had been brought as the current government has jeopardised relations with old ally India. How many votes are needed for the impeachment? For an impeachment motion, a two-thirds majority is needed. Currently, the Maldivian Parliament consists of 80 members, down from the earlier 87. According to local media, impeachment charges can be brought against the President with 56 votes. The MDP and Democrats collectively hold more than 56 seats—45 from the MDP and 13 from the Democrats. Additionally, the People's National Congress has 13, while there are three independents, and the Jumhooree Party and the Maldives Development Alliance (MDA) each have two members. Also read | Maldives' opposition-appointed prosecutor general stabbed amid political crisis Impeachment amendment In a political manoeuvre with strategic implications, seven lawmakers resigned from the Maldives Parliament in November. They did this to assume key roles in President Mohamed Muizzu's government. Despite the significance of this reshuffle, the country's election commission chose to forgo organising by-elections, citing the upcoming parliamentary polls set for 2024. Seizing the moment, the primary opposition force, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), which boasts a majority in Parliament, deftly amended the standing orders. They brought the amendment so that the seats left vacant by departing lawmakers are not factored into the overall count of members of Parliament. As a result, the total number of MPs has undergone a reduction, shrinking from the initial 87 to a revised count of 80. Also read | Maldives: Opposition to submit impeachment motion against President Muizzu This is particularly important in the context of impeachment proceedings against President Mohamed Muizzu. The amendment has effectively lowered the threshold for impeachment votes, now standing at 54, down from the prior requirement of 58. As per the Hindustan Times, the country's attorney general's office has filed a case with the Supreme Court regarding the recent amendment to parliament's standing orders that allow opposition lawmakers to launch impeachment proceedings against the president. Attorney General Ahmed Usham confirmed the filing of case on Sunday. However, the Supreme Court has yet to issue a statement. In a related development, a day before the reported impeachment plans, the PPM-PNC coalition submitted no-confidence motions against Maldives Parliament Speaker Mohamed Aslam and Deputy Speaker Ahmed Saleem, both belonging to the MDP. The political landscape in the Maldives appears to be undergoing significant turbulence, as various factions assert their positions within the parliament. Scuffle in parliament The simmering tensions amid the government and opposition resulted in clashes amid legislators in the country's parliament over the approval of four members of the President's cabinet on Sunday. The impeachment motion comes barely 24 hours after the clashes in the Maldivian Parliament. Members of the government's PPM and PNC, in a disruptive move, clashed over parliamentary proceedings and the functioning of the speaker. The scuffle unfolded after the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) declared its decision not to vote in favour of approving Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, Attorney General Ahmed Usham, Minister of Housing, Land and Urban Development Dr Ali Haidar, and Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed. Videos capturing the scuffle between pro-government MPs and opposition lawmakers circulated widely on social media. Exclusive visuals obtained by WION showed a heated altercation among lawmakers. Take a look here: #WATCH | Dramatic visuals from Maldives Parliament as opposition MPs are prevented from entering Parliament floor ahead of Parliamentary approval of Muizzu's Cabinet. pic.twitter.com/mVc6TT1yp4 — WION (@WIONews) January 28, 2024 × The video showcases the dramatic scenes in the Maldives Parliament, depicting opposition MPs being prevented from entering the Parliament floor just ahead of the crucial parliamentary vote for Muizzu's Cabinet approval. The ruling PPM-PNC coalition contends that denying parliamentary approval to Muizzu's cabinet equates to obstructing essential services provided by the government to its citizens. Watch | Maldives parliament proceedings halted as MPs come to blows Who is Mohamed Muizzu? Defeating the India-friendly former president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who leads MDP, 45-year-old Mohamed Muizzu assumed the nation's presidency in November. During his winning campaign, Muizzu had cast China's regional rival, India, and its influence as a threat to sovereignty. Muizzu, who is perceived as pro-China, made headlines shortly after assuming the position by demanding the withdrawal of the Indian military stationed in the Maldives by March 15. The nation also sent a formal request to New Delhi in this regard. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Impeachment drama unfolds in Maldives against anti-India President Mohamed Muizzu

<p>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Tuesday night (Jan 30) called her Hungarian counterpart Viktor Orban to express concerns over the mistreatment of a woman from Milan who faces 11 years in prison. Meloni's phone call came hours after the Hungarian ambassador to Italy was summoned to the foreign ministry in Rome.</p>

<p>Images of Ilaria Salis, 39, chained and cuffed by the Hungarian authorities during a court hearing went viral on Italian social media platforms, inviting criticism for the inhumane treatment meted her way. Several front-page headline stories in Italian media carried the image and questioned the Meloni government for keeping mum on the issue.</p>

<p>Giuseppe Conte, leader of Italy’s opposition Five Star Movement also attacked Meloni and said: "An Italian in chains, tied hand and foot in Hungary."</p>

<p>"Giorgia Meloni, we don’t care that Orbán is a dear friend of yours. We need to act with the utmost determination and raise our voices," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Salis was arrested in the capital city of Budapest in February last year during a&nbsp;counter-demonstration against a neo-Nazi rally. She has been charged with&nbsp;conspiracy to commit assault causing grievous bodily harm.</p>

<p>While she has pleaded not guilty, the prosecutors claim that she came to Hungary to&nbsp;"carry out rapid attacks which could cause serious injury against people believed to be far-right".&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/italy-jail-term-to-more-than-330-mobsters-their-alleged-associates-world-news-wion-660990"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Italy: Jail term to more than 330 mobsters &amp; their alleged associates</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Meloni's diplomatic challenge&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The case is a test of Meloni's diplomatic acumen. She has warm relations with Orban and the case threatens to generate friction between the two leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Italian foreign minister Antonio Tajani condemned&nbsp;Salis' treatment and said Hungary may have gone "too far" in the case.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This time it seems to me it has gone too far. Treating a prisoner in that way really seems inappropriate, not in tune with our legal culture,"&nbsp;Tajani told RAI radio</p>

<p>“We are in the European Union and there are citizens’ rights that must be respected,” the minister added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/museum-chief-calls-florence-a-prostitute-sparks-row-in-italy-685161"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Museum chief calls Florence a ‘prostitute’, sparks row in Italy&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Hungarian prison service has pushed back against the allegations that Salis was intentionally being held in a cell "full of rats and insects". The prison authorities said&nbsp;"hygiene checks are constantly carried out in the institutions and prisoners receive proper medical care".</p>

<p>"The presence of rats is a lie and prisons meet high hygiene standards," it added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Tuesday night (Jan 30) called her Hungarian counterpart Viktor Orban to express concerns over the mistreatment of a woman from Milan who faces 11 years in prison.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Tuesday night (Jan 30) called her Hungarian counterpart Viktor Orban to express concerns over the mistreatment of a woman from Milan who faces 11 years in prison. Meloni's phone call came hours after the Hungarian ambassador to Italy was summoned to the foreign ministry in Rome. Images of Ilaria Salis, 39, chained and cuffed by the Hungarian authorities during a court hearing went viral on Italian social media platforms, inviting criticism for the inhumane treatment meted her way. Several front-page headline stories in Italian media carried the image and questioned the Meloni government for keeping mum on the issue. Giuseppe Conte, leader of Italy’s opposition Five Star Movement also attacked Meloni and said: "An Italian in chains, tied hand and foot in Hungary." "Giorgia Meloni, we don’t care that Orbán is a dear friend of yours. We need to act with the utmost determination and raise our voices," he added. Salis was arrested in the capital city of Budapest in February last year during a counter-demonstration against a neo-Nazi rally. She has been charged with conspiracy to commit assault causing grievous bodily harm. While she has pleaded not guilty, the prosecutors claim that she came to Hungary to "carry out rapid attacks which could cause serious injury against people believed to be far-right". Watch | Italy: Jail term to more than 330 mobsters & their alleged associates × Meloni's diplomatic challenge The case is a test of Meloni's diplomatic acumen. She has warm relations with Orban and the case threatens to generate friction between the two leaders. Italian foreign minister Antonio Tajani condemned Salis' treatment and said Hungary may have gone "too far" in the case. “This time it seems to me it has gone too far. Treating a prisoner in that way really seems inappropriate, not in tune with our legal culture," Tajani told RAI radio “We are in the European Union and there are citizens’ rights that must be respected,” the minister added. Also read | Museum chief calls Florence a ‘prostitute’, sparks row in Italy Meanwhile, the Hungarian prison service has pushed back against the allegations that Salis was intentionally being held in a cell "full of rats and insects". The prison authorities said "hygiene checks are constantly carried out in the institutions and prisoners receive proper medical care". "The presence of rats is a lie and prisons meet high hygiene standards," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Meloni rings Orban over shackled Italian woman prisoner in Hungarian court

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<p>The city of Tokushima and its prefectural government in Japan have come under the scanner for spending over $2,800 (400,000 yen) in public funds on a sex doll to promote tourism. The government's tourism policy division used the sex doll in a tourist exhibition at the Tokushima Awaodori Airport in 2017.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The doll was utilised as part of the "Awa indigo charm promotion project" in 2017, aimed at promoting the prefecture's traditional indigo-dyeing art. The entire project was commissioned with a budget of $18,900 to the private sector and a promotion area was set up in the corner of the lobby of the airport.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Initially, a pair of cheap mannequins, rented at around $180 per day, were placed in the lobby. However, a few months later, the mannequins disappeared and the sex doll, dressed in an indigo-dyed summer kimono took its place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Interestingly, the existence of the adult doll came to light in September last year only. Consequently, the prefectural assembly member Atsushi Fukawa requested a citizen's audit in November.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Japanese news outlet <em>Mainichi</em>, a male official in his 40s in charge of the project instructed the contractor to purchase the sex doll to replace the mannequins. The said official visited a sex doll manufacturing and sales company in Osaka with other project stakeholders, including the contractor, to pick out the doll.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-japan-redefines-rape-raises-the-age-of-consent-605351" target="_blank"><strong>Watch | Gravitas: Japan redefines rape, raises the age of consent&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Doll would enhance effectiveness</strong></h2>

<p>The audit conducted into the fiasco revealed that the decision to use the sex doll was made as the tourism division thought that the use of a highly realistic doll would enhance the effectiveness of the project. However, the auditors dismissed this claim and flatly rejected any need to exhibit a sex doll.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Under the prefectural government regulations, any item costing upwards of 100,000 yen is to be treated as "fixtures" rather than consumable items. As a prefectural fixture, the doll was later utilised in two separate projects in 2017 and 2019 as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-lifts-ban-on-import-of-adult-sized-sex-dolls-customs-office-come-up-with-revised-guidelines-547086" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | South Korea lifts ban on import of adult-sized sex dolls, customs office releases revised guidelines</strong></a></p>

<p>In their final assessment, the auditors stated the use of dolls&nbsp;was "grossly inappropriate in terms of social norms" and "violated the local finance law". The prefecture has been urged to seek compensation from officials involved by June 19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Governor Masazumi Gotoda released a statement saying his administration was taking the audit results seriously even though the case was from before his tenure.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The city of Tokushima and its prefectural government in Japan have come under the scanner for spending over $2,800 (400,000 yen) in public funds on a sex doll to promote tourism.

The city of Tokushima and its prefectural government in Japan have come under the scanner for spending over $2,800 (400,000 yen) in public funds on a sex doll to promote tourism. The government's tourism policy division used the sex doll in a tourist exhibition at the Tokushima Awaodori Airport in 2017. The doll was utilised as part of the "Awa indigo charm promotion project" in 2017, aimed at promoting the prefecture's traditional indigo-dyeing art. The entire project was commissioned with a budget of $18,900 to the private sector and a promotion area was set up in the corner of the lobby of the airport. Initially, a pair of cheap mannequins, rented at around $180 per day, were placed in the lobby. However, a few months later, the mannequins disappeared and the sex doll, dressed in an indigo-dyed summer kimono took its place. Interestingly, the existence of the adult doll came to light in September last year only. Consequently, the prefectural assembly member Atsushi Fukawa requested a citizen's audit in November. According to the Japanese news outlet Mainichi, a male official in his 40s in charge of the project instructed the contractor to purchase the sex doll to replace the mannequins. The said official visited a sex doll manufacturing and sales company in Osaka with other project stakeholders, including the contractor, to pick out the doll. Watch | Gravitas: Japan redefines rape, raises the age of consent × Doll would enhance effectiveness The audit conducted into the fiasco revealed that the decision to use the sex doll was made as the tourism division thought that the use of a highly realistic doll would enhance the effectiveness of the project. However, the auditors dismissed this claim and flatly rejected any need to exhibit a sex doll. Under the prefectural government regulations, any item costing upwards of 100,000 yen is to be treated as "fixtures" rather than consumable items. As a prefectural fixture, the doll was later utilised in two separate projects in 2017 and 2019 as well. Also read | South Korea lifts ban on import of adult-sized sex dolls, customs office releases revised guidelines In their final assessment, the auditors stated the use of dolls was "grossly inappropriate in terms of social norms" and "violated the local finance law". The prefecture has been urged to seek compensation from officials involved by June 19. Governor Masazumi Gotoda released a statement saying his administration was taking the audit results seriously even though the case was from before his tenure. (With inputs from agencies)

Japanese city administration pulled up for using life-like $2,800 sex doll to promote tourism

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<p>A debate has sparked among astronomers about the existence of exomoons, the natural satellites revolving around exoplanets that orbit a star outside the solar system.</p>

<p>In 2018, David Kipping, an assistant professor of astronomy at Columbia University, and his team thought they had detected the first exomoon around the exoplanet Kepler-1625b and named it Kepler-1625b I. In 2022, another team, including Kipping, appeared to have discovered a second such non-stellar extrasolar body around Kepler-1708b and aptly dubbed it Kepler-1708b I.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Rene Heller, a scientist at Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research, and Michael Hippke of Sonneberg Observatory wrote in a paper published in Nature Astronomy, "The probability of a moon orbiting Kepler-1708b is clearly lower than previously reported. The data do not suggest the existence of an exomoon around Kepler-1708b." They said the same thing about Kepler 1625b.&nbsp;</p>

<p>David Kipping, Alex Teachey and a group of researchers from previous studies have responded to Heller and Hippke's claim. They wrote, "Recently, Heller &amp; Hippke argued that the exomoon candidates Kepler-1625 b I and Kepler-1708 b I were allegedly 'refuted.'" According to them, Hellen and Hippke neglected data, eliminating the exomoon-supporting signal in the Hubble light curves for Kepler-1625b I.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two exoplanets at issue, Kepler-1625b and Kepler-1708 b are around 8,000 and 5,500 light years away from Earth, which is an extreme distance. Researchers used a technique similar to the transit method to detect these two exoplanets, initially captured by the Kepler Space Telescope.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-bacteria-murdering-virus-may-come-in-handy-to-kill-superbugs-685280">A bacteria-murdering virus may come in handy to kill superbugs</a></p>

<p>Exomoons are hard to detect, and the only evidence is light curves. However, these curves around exomoons are fainter than those around exoplanets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Different researchers employ different techniques, methods, models, and algorithms for the structural analysis of these faint exomoon light curves. Kipping and Teachey claim that Heller and Hippke made errors in their analysis and excluded critical information in their study.</p>

<p>"We demonstrate that their Hubble light curve exhibits ~20 per cent higher noise and discards 11% of the useful data, which compromises its ability to recover the subtle signal of Kepler-1625 b I," write Kipping and Teachey.</p>

<p>However, they added, "We begin by clearly stating, both exomoon candidates may not be real. Our original and continued claim is modest: these objects are candidates for which the data exhibits substantial but not entirely conclusive evidence in favour of exomoons."</p>

<p>Both studies show how challenging the detection of exomoons can be until there are major advancements in telescope technology. Kipping believes this debate between the two research teams is an opportunity to compare methods and conclude on the best approach to discover more about these exomoons.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A debate has sparked among astronomers about the existence of exomoons, the natural satellites revolving around exoplanets that orbit a star outside the solar system.

A debate has sparked among astronomers about the existence of exomoons, the natural satellites revolving around exoplanets that orbit a star outside the solar system. In 2018, David Kipping, an assistant professor of astronomy at Columbia University, and his team thought they had detected the first exomoon around the exoplanet Kepler-1625b and named it Kepler-1625b I. In 2022, another team, including Kipping, appeared to have discovered a second such non-stellar extrasolar body around Kepler-1708b and aptly dubbed it Kepler-1708b I. However, Rene Heller, a scientist at Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research, and Michael Hippke of Sonneberg Observatory wrote in a paper published in Nature Astronomy, "The probability of a moon orbiting Kepler-1708b is clearly lower than previously reported. The data do not suggest the existence of an exomoon around Kepler-1708b." They said the same thing about Kepler 1625b. David Kipping, Alex Teachey and a group of researchers from previous studies have responded to Heller and Hippke's claim. They wrote, "Recently, Heller & Hippke argued that the exomoon candidates Kepler-1625 b I and Kepler-1708 b I were allegedly 'refuted.'" According to them, Hellen and Hippke neglected data, eliminating the exomoon-supporting signal in the Hubble light curves for Kepler-1625b I. The two exoplanets at issue, Kepler-1625b and Kepler-1708 b are around 8,000 and 5,500 light years away from Earth, which is an extreme distance. Researchers used a technique similar to the transit method to detect these two exoplanets, initially captured by the Kepler Space Telescope. ALSO READ | A bacteria-murdering virus may come in handy to kill superbugs Exomoons are hard to detect, and the only evidence is light curves. However, these curves around exomoons are fainter than those around exoplanets. Different researchers employ different techniques, methods, models, and algorithms for the structural analysis of these faint exomoon light curves. Kipping and Teachey claim that Heller and Hippke made errors in their analysis and excluded critical information in their study. "We demonstrate that their Hubble light curve exhibits ~20 per cent higher noise and discards 11% of the useful data, which compromises its ability to recover the subtle signal of Kepler-1625 b I," write Kipping and Teachey. However, they added, "We begin by clearly stating, both exomoon candidates may not be real. Our original and continued claim is modest: these objects are candidates for which the data exhibits substantial but not entirely conclusive evidence in favour of exomoons." Both studies show how challenging the detection of exomoons can be until there are major advancements in telescope technology. Kipping believes this debate between the two research teams is an opportunity to compare methods and conclude on the best approach to discover more about these exomoons. (With inputs from agencies)

Do moons exist outside our solar systems? Researchers argue on discovery of exomoons

<p>A Californian man who tried to shift blame onto his twin brother for the rape of a 9-year-old girl and a jogger has been handed 140 years to life sentence this week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Orange County District Attorney's Office, in a statement, disclosed that genealogy technology played a pivotal role in solving the crimes that happened decades ago. The technology led investigators to Kevin Konther and his twin brother, implicated in the 1995 and 1998 assaults.</p>

<p>A judge on Monday delivered the maximum sentence allowable, condemning&nbsp;58-year-old Konther to 140 years to life behind bars.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-cancels-elon-musks-56-billion-tesla-pay-package-in-landmark-decision-685302">After Judge cancels $56bn Tesla pay package, Musk warns 'never incorporate' companies in Delaware</a></strong></p>

<p>The jury, as per the press release, found him guilty on multiple charges, including two felony counts of forcible rape, two felony counts of forcible oral copulation, one felony count of a forcible lewd act upon a child, and one felony count of a lewd and lascivious act with a minor.</p>

<p>Calling Konther "a sexual carnivore", as per The Mercury News, the judge at the sentencing said: "This is like a cat, a lion, a cheetah looking for prey."</p>

<p>"Vultures don’t do this to their young, rats don't do this."</p>

<h2><strong>How the conviction happened</strong></h2>

<p>Despite sharing identical DNA, covertly recorded conversations between the twin brothers after their arrests exposed incriminating statements by Kevin Konther.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the twin brother has not faced charges, recorded discussions show that he was shocked by the allegations levied against Kevin.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/worlds-most-and-least-corrupt-countries-revealed-how-did-india-fare-find-out-685329">World's most and least corrupt countries revealed. How did India fare? Find out</a></strong></p>

<p>"Identical twins share the same DNA, but conversations covertly recorded between the two brothers following their arrests revealed multiple incriminating statements made by Kevin Konther, including admissions that he carried out the crimes," said the DA's office when Konther was initially convicted in February.</p>

<p>As per NBC News, the conviction in February stemmed from a jury finding Konther guilty of two counts of forcible rape, coupled with additional charges related to the molestation of a third victim—the 12-year-old daughter of a former girlfriend, as outlined by the prosecutor's office.</p>

<h2><strong>Charges against Konther</strong></h2>

<p>The heinous acts date back to 1995 when Konther, wielding a knife, forcibly raped a 9-year-old girl as she walked home in Lake Forest, situated southeast of Irvine in Orange County. In 1998, he ambushed and sexually assaulted a 32-year-old woman jogging in Mission Viejo.&nbsp;He was arrested in 2019.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A Californian man who tried to shift blame onto his twin brother for the rape of a 9-year-old girl and a jogger has been handed 140 years to life sentence this week.

A Californian man who tried to shift blame onto his twin brother for the rape of a 9-year-old girl and a jogger has been handed 140 years to life sentence this week. The Orange County District Attorney's Office, in a statement, disclosed that genealogy technology played a pivotal role in solving the crimes that happened decades ago. The technology led investigators to Kevin Konther and his twin brother, implicated in the 1995 and 1998 assaults. A judge on Monday delivered the maximum sentence allowable, condemning 58-year-old Konther to 140 years to life behind bars. Also read | After Judge cancels $56bn Tesla pay package, Musk warns 'never incorporate' companies in Delaware The jury, as per the press release, found him guilty on multiple charges, including two felony counts of forcible rape, two felony counts of forcible oral copulation, one felony count of a forcible lewd act upon a child, and one felony count of a lewd and lascivious act with a minor. Calling Konther "a sexual carnivore", as per The Mercury News, the judge at the sentencing said: "This is like a cat, a lion, a cheetah looking for prey." "Vultures don’t do this to their young, rats don't do this." How the conviction happened Despite sharing identical DNA, covertly recorded conversations between the twin brothers after their arrests exposed incriminating statements by Kevin Konther. While the twin brother has not faced charges, recorded discussions show that he was shocked by the allegations levied against Kevin. Also read | World's most and least corrupt countries revealed. How did India fare? Find out "Identical twins share the same DNA, but conversations covertly recorded between the two brothers following their arrests revealed multiple incriminating statements made by Kevin Konther, including admissions that he carried out the crimes," said the DA's office when Konther was initially convicted in February. As per NBC News, the conviction in February stemmed from a jury finding Konther guilty of two counts of forcible rape, coupled with additional charges related to the molestation of a third victim—the 12-year-old daughter of a former girlfriend, as outlined by the prosecutor's office. Charges against Konther The heinous acts date back to 1995 when Konther, wielding a knife, forcibly raped a 9-year-old girl as she walked home in Lake Forest, situated southeast of Irvine in Orange County. In 1998, he ambushed and sexually assaulted a 32-year-old woman jogging in Mission Viejo. He was arrested in 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

'Sexual Carnivore': California man who tried to blame twin brother for rape sentenced to 140 years in prison

<p>Illinois has decided to let ex-President Donald Trump remain on the state's presidential primary ballot.&nbsp;Dismissing claims of Trump's ineligibility under the 14th Amendment's insurrection clause, the Illinois State Board of Elections unanimously voted to let Trump stay on the ballot.</p>

<h2><strong>Lack of authority</strong></h2>

<p>The bipartisan board, made up of eight members, said it didn't have the authority to decide on the challenge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The lawsuit accused Trump of trying to overturn the 2020 election and inciting the Capitol attack on January 6. Trump and his lawyers have denied the allegation and argue that he didn't engage in insurrection.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-cancels-elon-musks-56-billion-tesla-pay-package-in-landmark-decision-685302">After Judge cancels $56 bn Tesla pay package, Musk warns 'never incorporate' companies in Delaware</a></strong></p>

<p>"Trump did not engage in insurrection, as that term is used in the Constitution," said Trump's attorney Adam Merrill on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is a complicated legal term that has been rarely interpreted and it wasn't even articulated correctly by the hearing officer in this case and, frankly, never should have reached it because of the lack of evidence, and because of the lack of jurisdiction," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Disappointment and Celebration</strong></h2>

<p>The group Free Speech for the People, representing the voters, expressed disappointment and plans to appeal. They said that the courts would show "why Illinois law authorises that ruling despite Trump's subjective belief that the Constitution doesn’t apply to him."</p>

<p>Celebrating the decision, Trump said the board's ruling was "protecting the Citizens of our Country from the Radical Left Lunatics who are trying to destroy it."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-appeals-maines-biased-decision-makers-presidential-primary-ballot-ban-676039">Donald Trump appeals Maine's 'biased' decision maker's presidential primary ballot ban</a></strong></p>

<p>The decision comes just a week before the US Supreme Court is scheduled to hear oral arguments on February 8 regarding a similar challenge to Trump in Colorado. The Colorado Supreme Court had ruled Trump ineligible for their primary under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment.</p>

<p>Dozens of similar challenges have been considered by courts across the US. To date, only the Colorado Supreme Court and Maine's secretary of state have ruled that Trump was ineligible to participate in their primary process.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Illinois has decided to let ex-President Donald Trump remain on the state's presidential primary ballot. Dismissing claims of Trump's ineligibility under the 14th Amendment's insurrection clause, the Illinois State Board of Elections unanimously voted to let Trump stay on the ballot.

Illinois has decided to let ex-President Donald Trump remain on the state's presidential primary ballot. Dismissing claims of Trump's ineligibility under the 14th Amendment's insurrection clause, the Illinois State Board of Elections unanimously voted to let Trump stay on the ballot. Lack of authority The bipartisan board, made up of eight members, said it didn't have the authority to decide on the challenge. The lawsuit accused Trump of trying to overturn the 2020 election and inciting the Capitol attack on January 6. Trump and his lawyers have denied the allegation and argue that he didn't engage in insurrection. Also read | After Judge cancels $56 bn Tesla pay package, Musk warns 'never incorporate' companies in Delaware "Trump did not engage in insurrection, as that term is used in the Constitution," said Trump's attorney Adam Merrill on Tuesday. "It is a complicated legal term that has been rarely interpreted and it wasn't even articulated correctly by the hearing officer in this case and, frankly, never should have reached it because of the lack of evidence, and because of the lack of jurisdiction," he added. Disappointment and Celebration The group Free Speech for the People, representing the voters, expressed disappointment and plans to appeal. They said that the courts would show "why Illinois law authorises that ruling despite Trump's subjective belief that the Constitution doesn’t apply to him." Celebrating the decision, Trump said the board's ruling was "protecting the Citizens of our Country from the Radical Left Lunatics who are trying to destroy it." Also read | Donald Trump appeals Maine's 'biased' decision maker's presidential primary ballot ban The decision comes just a week before the US Supreme Court is scheduled to hear oral arguments on February 8 regarding a similar challenge to Trump in Colorado. The Colorado Supreme Court had ruled Trump ineligible for their primary under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment. Dozens of similar challenges have been considered by courts across the US. To date, only the Colorado Supreme Court and Maine's secretary of state have ruled that Trump was ineligible to participate in their primary process. (With inputs from agencies)

Illinois board allows Trump to remain on state's Presidential primary ballot

<p>Maldives'&nbsp;Prosecutor General Hussain Shameem has been brutally stabbed in broad daylight by gangs amid the ongoing political crisis, according to local media reports. The top lawyer had been appointed by the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party&nbsp;(MDP) under former president&nbsp;Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the police, Shameen was not near his security cover when the incident took place near Noor mosque. He is currently being treated at ADK Hospital for his wounds. He has also suffered a crack in his wrist trying to evade the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Post the attack, MDP released a strongly-worded statement, calling out the Muizzu administration for giving free rein to the criminals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"President Dr. Muizzu has neglected to provide the necessary protection to the people and those performing their constitutional duties and duties. In this regard, the party noted that there has been an increase in violence in the Maldives since President&nbsp;Muizzu took over the government," read the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former prez Solih took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to condemn the attack and batted for perpetrators to be brought to justice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I condemn the violent assault on Prosector General Hussain Shameem this morning. I wish PG Shameem a speedy recovery. Politically motivated acts of violence have no place in a democratic society and I call on the government to be swift in bringing the perpetrators to justice," wrote Solih.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I condemn the violent assault on Prosector General Hussain Shameem this morning. I wish PG Shameem a speedy recovery.<br />
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Politically motivated acts of violence have no place in a democratic society and I call on the government to be swift in bringing the perpetrators to justice.</p>
— Ibrahim Mohamed Solih (@ibusolih) <a href="https://twitter.com/ibusolih/status/1752573502400450700?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Hussain Shameem?</strong></h2>

<p>Shameem&nbsp;was appointed as the prosecutor general in 2019 as per&nbsp;Article 221 of the Maldivian Constitution and Article 3 of the Prosecutor General’s Act. He replaced&nbsp;Aishath Bisham who resigned from her position after facing several allegations, including allowing the former government to influence the PG Office’s work.</p>

<p>Prior to being appointed as the top lawyer, he&nbsp;served as the deputy prosecutor general twice, from February 2009 to October 2012 as well as from November 2013 to May 2014. He served on the clemency board as well.</p>

<p>Shameem holds&nbsp;a&nbsp;Master of Laws in Criminal Law and Criminal Justice from the University of Sussex as well as a&nbsp;graduate degree in Shari’a and Law from the Al-Azhar University in Egypt.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maldives-anti-president-faces-impeachment-muizzus-pro-china-moves-to-cost-him-684920"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;'Maldives' anti-India President | Muizzu's Pro-China Moves To Cost Him?</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Maldives political turmoil</strong></h2>

<p>Shameem's stabbing comes at a time when the island nation has been embroiled in a&nbsp;political standoff with&nbsp;MDP leading the charge in bringing an impeachment motion against President Mohammed Muizzu for his anti-India and pro-China credentials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>MDP,&nbsp;in partnership with another opposition party, The Democrats, has&nbsp;managed to gather enough signatures to initiate the impeachment motion.&nbsp;One of the MDP leaders, talking to&nbsp;<em>WION&nbsp;</em>said the motion had been brought as the current government had jeopardised&nbsp;relations with India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/video-maldives-lawmakers-fight-out-dramatic-scuffle-ahead-of-key-parliamentary-vote-684550"><strong>Video | Maldives: Lawmakers indulge in scuffle ahead of key parliamentary vote</strong></a></p>

<p>Solih's MDP is&nbsp;in control of the parliament and the ruling combine - Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) and President Muizzu's People's National Congress (PNC) - does not have a parliamentary majority.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The impeachment move came after videos&nbsp;of clashes inside the Maldivian Parliament between pro-government MPs and opposition lawmakers went viral on social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The visuals, exclusively accessed by WION, showed lawmakers engaged in a fierce altercation. The government's lawmakers of the&nbsp;PPM and PNC&nbsp;disrupted the proceeding over parliament and the speaker's functioning.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Maldives' Prosecutor General Hussain Shameem has been brutally stabbed in broad daylight by gangs amid the ongoing political crisis, according to local media reports.

Maldives' Prosecutor General Hussain Shameem has been brutally stabbed in broad daylight by gangs amid the ongoing political crisis, according to local media reports. The top lawyer had been appointed by the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) under former president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in 2019. According to the police, Shameen was not near his security cover when the incident took place near Noor mosque. He is currently being treated at ADK Hospital for his wounds. He has also suffered a crack in his wrist trying to evade the attack. Post the attack, MDP released a strongly-worded statement, calling out the Muizzu administration for giving free rein to the criminals. "President Dr. Muizzu has neglected to provide the necessary protection to the people and those performing their constitutional duties and duties. In this regard, the party noted that there has been an increase in violence in the Maldives since President Muizzu took over the government," read the statement. Former prez Solih took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to condemn the attack and batted for perpetrators to be brought to justice. "I condemn the violent assault on Prosector General Hussain Shameem this morning. I wish PG Shameem a speedy recovery. Politically motivated acts of violence have no place in a democratic society and I call on the government to be swift in bringing the perpetrators to justice," wrote Solih. I condemn the violent assault on Prosector General Hussain Shameem this morning. I wish PG Shameem a speedy recovery. Politically motivated acts of violence have no place in a democratic society and I call on the government to be swift in bringing the perpetrators to justice. — Ibrahim Mohamed Solih (@ibusolih) January 31, 2024 × Who is Hussain Shameem? Shameem was appointed as the prosecutor general in 2019 as per Article 221 of the Maldivian Constitution and Article 3 of the Prosecutor General’s Act. He replaced Aishath Bisham who resigned from her position after facing several allegations, including allowing the former government to influence the PG Office’s work. Prior to being appointed as the top lawyer, he served as the deputy prosecutor general twice, from February 2009 to October 2012 as well as from November 2013 to May 2014. He served on the clemency board as well. Shameem holds a Master of Laws in Criminal Law and Criminal Justice from the University of Sussex as well as a graduate degree in Shari’a and Law from the Al-Azhar University in Egypt. Watch | 'Maldives' anti-India President | Muizzu's Pro-China Moves To Cost Him? × Maldives political turmoil Shameem's stabbing comes at a time when the island nation has been embroiled in a political standoff with MDP leading the charge in bringing an impeachment motion against President Mohammed Muizzu for his anti-India and pro-China credentials. MDP, in partnership with another opposition party, The Democrats, has managed to gather enough signatures to initiate the impeachment motion. One of the MDP leaders, talking to WION said the motion had been brought as the current government had jeopardised relations with India. Video | Maldives: Lawmakers indulge in scuffle ahead of key parliamentary vote Solih's MDP is in control of the parliament and the ruling combine - Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) and President Muizzu's People's National Congress (PNC) - does not have a parliamentary majority. The impeachment move came after videos of clashes inside the Maldivian Parliament between pro-government MPs and opposition lawmakers went viral on social media. The visuals, exclusively accessed by WION, showed lawmakers engaged in a fierce altercation. The government's lawmakers of the PPM and PNC disrupted the proceeding over parliament and the speaker's functioning. (With inputs from agencies)

Maldives' opposition-appointed prosecutor general stabbed amid political crisis

<p>Canada has opted to continue to exclude those suffering from mental health problems from voluntarily opting for death. &nbsp;</p>

<p>On Monday (Jan 29), the Canadian government announced that individuals suffering solely from mental illness will continue to be excluded from pursuing assisted death.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This decision, as per Reuters, comes after a parliamentary committee determined that the country's healthcare system is not yet prepared for such an inclusion.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>More time needed</h2>

<p>Speaking to reporters, Health Minister Mark Holland stated that the government will soon introduce legislation outlining details such as the duration of this exclusion.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scathing-report-accuses-trump-administration-of-controlled-substance-violations-in-white-house-684984">Scathing report accuses Trump administration of controlled substance violations in White House</a></strong></p>

<p>"We agree with the joint committee's conclusion that more time is required, and we'll be in a position in the coming days to talk about how much time we believe is required," he told reporters in Ottawa.</p>

<h2><strong>Canada and assisted death</strong></h2>

<p>Canada legalised assisted death in 2016 for individuals with a terminal illness. In 2021, it expanded the eligibility to include people with incurable but not necessarily terminal conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, legislation&nbsp;to temporarily exclude those whose only underlying condition is a mental illness was passed. This exclusion, which has already been extended by one year, is set to expire on March 17.</p>

<p>"We need more time," said Health Minister Mark Holland, adding that the March timeline was not a barrier, but that the government needs to move fast to extend the exclusion once more.</p>

<p>Holland explained that more time is needed for training individuals on the established guidelines, as provinces and territories have indicated that their systems are not yet ready.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>"Although the curriculum is present, although the guidelines are set, there has not been enough time for people to be trained on them, and provinces and territories are saying their systems are not ready and need more time," he said.</p>

<p>Proponents of assisted death argue that it is a matter of personal autonomy, while some psychiatrists express concerns about determining whether a mental illness is truly "irremediable".</p>

<p>Opposition parties in Canada have advocated for an indefinite pause on including mental illness cases under Canada's medical assistance in dying (MAID) law, asserting that the healthcare system was unprepared for such an expansion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If the exclusion were lifted, Canada would become one of only six countries where a person suffering solely from mental illness, and not near natural death, could seek assistance in dying from a doctor.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Canada has opted to continue to exclude those suffering from mental health problems from voluntarily opting for death. On Monday (Jan 29), the Canadian government announced that individuals suffering solely from mental illness will continue to be excluded from pursuing assisted death.

Canada has opted to continue to exclude those suffering from mental health problems from voluntarily opting for death. On Monday (Jan 29), the Canadian government announced that individuals suffering solely from mental illness will continue to be excluded from pursuing assisted death. This decision, as per Reuters, comes after a parliamentary committee determined that the country's healthcare system is not yet prepared for such an inclusion. More time needed Speaking to reporters, Health Minister Mark Holland stated that the government will soon introduce legislation outlining details such as the duration of this exclusion. Also read | Scathing report accuses Trump administration of controlled substance violations in White House "We agree with the joint committee's conclusion that more time is required, and we'll be in a position in the coming days to talk about how much time we believe is required," he told reporters in Ottawa. Canada and assisted death Canada legalised assisted death in 2016 for individuals with a terminal illness. In 2021, it expanded the eligibility to include people with incurable but not necessarily terminal conditions. However, legislation to temporarily exclude those whose only underlying condition is a mental illness was passed. This exclusion, which has already been extended by one year, is set to expire on March 17. "We need more time," said Health Minister Mark Holland, adding that the March timeline was not a barrier, but that the government needs to move fast to extend the exclusion once more. Holland explained that more time is needed for training individuals on the established guidelines, as provinces and territories have indicated that their systems are not yet ready. Also read | Missing Indian student of Purdue University found dead on campus "Although the curriculum is present, although the guidelines are set, there has not been enough time for people to be trained on them, and provinces and territories are saying their systems are not ready and need more time," he said. Proponents of assisted death argue that it is a matter of personal autonomy, while some psychiatrists express concerns about determining whether a mental illness is truly "irremediable". Opposition parties in Canada have advocated for an indefinite pause on including mental illness cases under Canada's medical assistance in dying (MAID) law, asserting that the healthcare system was unprepared for such an expansion. If the exclusion were lifted, Canada would become one of only six countries where a person suffering solely from mental illness, and not near natural death, could seek assistance in dying from a doctor. (With inputs from agencies)

'Need more time': Canada to continue to exclude mental health patients from assisted death law

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