Forty-two people have lost their lives as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-28-dead-27-injured-7-missing-following-heavy-rains-241904">incessant rains continue to wreak havoc</a> in Kerala, and as many as 19 trains have been cancelled on Saturday.

Officials said 'Red Alert'&nbsp;has been issued in Ernakulam, Idukki, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kannur districts, were denoting that the regions will receive very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall.

On Friday, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had said as many as 24 incidents of landslides were reported in the state. In Malappuram, rescue efforts were hampered at Kavalappara where more than 30 people are feared dead after a landslide on August 8.

National Disaster Response Force, Indian Army and local police are currently carrying out rescue efforts in flood-affected areas.

The situation may take a turn for worse as the India Meteorological Department has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in isolated places over the next five days.

In addition, the weather forecasting agency predicted strong winds with speeds reaching 40-50 kmph over the coastal areas.

Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea.&nbsp;

Forty-two people have lost their lives as incessant rains continue to wreak havoc in Kerala, and as many as 19 trains have been cancelled on Saturday. Officials said 'Red Alert' has been issued in Ernakulam, Idukki, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kannur districts, were denoting that the regions will receive very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall.

Forty-two people have lost their lives as incessant rains continue to wreak havoc in Kerala, and as many as 19 trains have been cancelled on Saturday. Officials said 'Red Alert' has been issued in Ernakulam, Idukki, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kannur districts, were denoting that the regions will receive very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall. On Friday, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had said as many as 24 incidents of landslides were reported in the state. In Malappuram, rescue efforts were hampered at Kavalappara where more than 30 people are feared dead after a landslide on August 8. National Disaster Response Force, Indian Army and local police are currently carrying out rescue efforts in flood-affected areas. The situation may take a turn for worse as the India Meteorological Department has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in isolated places over the next five days. In addition, the weather forecasting agency predicted strong winds with speeds reaching 40-50 kmph over the coastal areas. Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea.

42 dead in rain-battered Kerala, 19 trains cancelled

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed grief over the death of journalist KM Basheer in a road accident and stated that his government will consider measures to ensure greater risk protection of journalists in the workplace.

Basheer (35) was killed after a speeding car driven by IAS officer Sriram Venkitaraman rammed into his bike in Thiruvananthapuram in the wee hours of Saturday.

"There is an insurance scheme for journalists. We will expand and restructure it in order to ensure that the family is safe enough to cope with complex situations. The government will take urgent measures to address these issues," Vijayan said in a Facebook post hours after Basheer's death.

Vijayan also said the state government is dealing with all matters related to the accident in a serious manner.

Basheer, Vijayan said, was a regular face at Thiruvananthapuram Press Club, adding that the journalist's death caused much grief.

"When I saw his face for the last time, I felt like a family member has left us," he said in his post.

"No compromise of any kind will be allowed and we will do everything possible to bring to justice to those responsible for Basheer's death," Vijayan said.

The IAS officer has been sent to 14-day judicial custody in connection with the accident.

The police have registered a case under Section 279 (for reckless driving) and 304 (for culpable homicide not amounting to murder) of the Indian Penal Code.

The IAS officer was returning after a party and was accompanied by a friend when the accident took place. He was reportedly in an inebriated state while driving the car.

Basheer was the Chief of Trivandrum Bureau of Malayalam daily Siraj and was rushed to a government hospital, but could not be saved.&nbsp;

Sriram, who also sustained injuries in the accident, was also taken to a nearby hospital.

In a statement recorded of Sriram after the accident, the officer had claimed that at the time of the accident, the car was driven by his friend.

However, the journalist fraternity had alleged that there were lapses from the police during the probe. The fraternity also claimed that the police did not conduct Sriram's blood test.

&nbsp;

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed grief over the death of journalist KM Basheer in a road accident and stated that his government will consider measures to ensure greater risk protection of journalists in the workplace.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed grief over the death of journalist KM Basheer in a road accident and stated that his government will consider measures to ensure greater risk protection of journalists in the workplace. Basheer (35) was killed after a speeding car driven by IAS officer Sriram Venkitaraman rammed into his bike in Thiruvananthapuram in the wee hours of Saturday. "There is an insurance scheme for journalists. We will expand and restructure it in order to ensure that the family is safe enough to cope with complex situations. The government will take urgent measures to address these issues," Vijayan said in a Facebook post hours after Basheer's death. Vijayan also said the state government is dealing with all matters related to the accident in a serious manner. Basheer, Vijayan said, was a regular face at Thiruvananthapuram Press Club, adding that the journalist's death caused much grief. "When I saw his face for the last time, I felt like a family member has left us," he said in his post. "No compromise of any kind will be allowed and we will do everything possible to bring to justice to those responsible for Basheer's death," Vijayan said. The IAS officer has been sent to 14-day judicial custody in connection with the accident. The police have registered a case under Section 279 (for reckless driving) and 304 (for culpable homicide not amounting to murder) of the Indian Penal Code. The IAS officer was returning after a party and was accompanied by a friend when the accident took place. He was reportedly in an inebriated state while driving the car. Basheer was the Chief of Trivandrum Bureau of Malayalam daily Siraj and was rushed to a government hospital, but could not be saved. Sriram, who also sustained injuries in the accident, was also taken to a nearby hospital. In a statement recorded of Sriram after the accident, the officer had claimed that at the time of the accident, the car was driven by his friend. However, the journalist fraternity had alleged that there were lapses from the police during the probe. The fraternity also claimed that the police did not conduct Sriram's blood test.

Will consider measures to ensure greater risk protection of journalists in workplace: Kerala CM Vijayan

The Kerala government Tuesday said it is in "constant contact" with the Union Health ministry in the wake of confirmation about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-man-tests-positive-for-nipah-virus-infection-224081">Nipah infecting a person in the state</a>, a year after the deadly virus claimed 17 lives.

State Health Minister, K K Shailaja, confirmed on Tuesday that a 23-year-old college student, who was undergoing treatment for fever in Kochi, has been infected by the virus.

Pathological samples from youth had been sent to the National Institute of Virology, Pune, which confirmed that the youth had been infected by the deadly virus. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said there was no need to panic as the health network would rise up to the challenge.

"We are in constant contact with the Union ministry for health. A team of experts have arrived in Kochi. Their guidelines will also be used to tackle the virus outbreak," Vijayan said in a Facebook Post.

"The news of confirmation should not be a reason for panic. Our health network is ready to rise up to the challenge," he said.

Watch: As Nipah strikes again in Kerala, state to strengthen preventive measures

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/as-nipah-strikes-again-in-kerala-state-to-strengthen-preventive-measures-224203/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Under the supervision of the state health minister, all necessary preparations have been completed, Vijayan said, adding those who came in contact with the infected person, have been traced and are under observation.

Urging everyone to follow the instructions of the health department, the chief minister warned that stringent action would be taken against those spreading misinformation.

"The state had overcome the battle against Nipah last year. In this battle also we are going to prevail", he said.

In May last year, Nipah had claimed 17 lives -- 14 in Kozhikode and three in neighbouring Malappuram. The deceased included a nurse, who had taken care of one of the victims.

Meanwhile, the health department has sounded alert in Kollam, as three students, who had come in contact with the affected youth are from the district.

Isolation wards have been opened in district government hospitals, including Parippali medical college there, health department officials said. 
The three are under observation, they added.&nbsp;

The Kerala government Tuesday said it is in "constant contact" with the Union Health ministry in the wake of confirmation about Nipah infecting a person in the state, a year after the deadly virus claimed 17 lives.

The Kerala government Tuesday said it is in "constant contact" with the Union Health ministry in the wake of confirmation about Nipah infecting a person in the state, a year after the deadly virus claimed 17 lives. State Health Minister, K K Shailaja, confirmed on Tuesday that a 23-year-old college student, who was undergoing treatment for fever in Kochi, has been infected by the virus. Pathological samples from youth had been sent to the National Institute of Virology, Pune, which confirmed that the youth had been infected by the deadly virus. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said there was no need to panic as the health network would rise up to the challenge. "We are in constant contact with the Union ministry for health. A team of experts have arrived in Kochi. Their guidelines will also be used to tackle the virus outbreak," Vijayan said in a Facebook Post. "The news of confirmation should not be a reason for panic. Our health network is ready to rise up to the challenge," he said. Watch: As Nipah strikes again in Kerala, state to strengthen preventive measures Under the supervision of the state health minister, all necessary preparations have been completed, Vijayan said, adding those who came in contact with the infected person, have been traced and are under observation. Urging everyone to follow the instructions of the health department, the chief minister warned that stringent action would be taken against those spreading misinformation. "The state had overcome the battle against Nipah last year. In this battle also we are going to prevail", he said. In May last year, Nipah had claimed 17 lives -- 14 in Kozhikode and three in neighbouring Malappuram. The deceased included a nurse, who had taken care of one of the victims. Meanwhile, the health department has sounded alert in Kollam, as three students, who had come in contact with the affected youth are from the district. Isolation wards have been opened in district government hospitals, including Parippali medical college there, health department officials said. The three are under observation, they added.

Kerala government in constant contact with health ministry after Nipah virus confirmation: Pinarayi Vijayan

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday asserted that Sabarimala issue did not affect polls in Kerala.

He, in a veiled attack on the BJP, said that it was the latter party which created trouble in the state.

Addressing media persons, he said, "We are going to win big. Sabarimala issue did not affect polls in Kerala. All of us know who created troubles there."

Asserting that those who created trouble during Sabarimala row are facing in-fighting now, Vijayan said, "Now there is in-fight within those people. Some among them have said that a group of people intervened with the intention of creating trouble there."

The Sabarimala temple and surrounding areas witnessed a string of protests since October last year over the Supreme Court`s decision to quash restrictions on the entry of women between 10 and 50 years.

Nearly four months after the apex court permitted women of all ages to enter the temple on September 28 last year, two women aged below 50 years entered the Lord Ayyappa temple to offer prayers.

Violent protests broke out all across the state, while a purification process took place in the temple following the entry of these two women - Bindu Ammini and Kanaka Durga.

In March, this year BJP's Kozhikode Lok Sabha candidate Prakash Babu was also remanded to judicial custody on Thursday for 14 days in a case related to violence at Sabarimala.&nbsp;

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday asserted that Sabarimala issue did not affect polls in Kerala. He, in a veiled attack on the BJP, said that it was the latter party which created trouble in the state.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday asserted that Sabarimala issue did not affect polls in Kerala. He, in a veiled attack on the BJP, said that it was the latter party which created trouble in the state. Addressing media persons, he said, "We are going to win big. Sabarimala issue did not affect polls in Kerala. All of us know who created troubles there." Asserting that those who created trouble during Sabarimala row are facing in-fighting now, Vijayan said, "Now there is in-fight within those people. Some among them have said that a group of people intervened with the intention of creating trouble there." The Sabarimala temple and surrounding areas witnessed a string of protests since October last year over the Supreme Court`s decision to quash restrictions on the entry of women between 10 and 50 years. Nearly four months after the apex court permitted women of all ages to enter the temple on September 28 last year, two women aged below 50 years entered the Lord Ayyappa temple to offer prayers. Violent protests broke out all across the state, while a purification process took place in the temple following the entry of these two women - Bindu Ammini and Kanaka Durga. In March, this year BJP's Kozhikode Lok Sabha candidate Prakash Babu was also remanded to judicial custody on Thursday for 14 days in a case related to violence at Sabarimala.

Sabarimala issue didn't affect polls in Kerala: Pinarayi Vijayan

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao on Monday met his Kerala counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan in Thiruvananthapuram, reported news agency ANI.

The meeting between the two leaders took place at the official residence of Kerala chief minister, the report added.

According to sources, both the Chief Ministers held discussions on contemporary politics in view of ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

Rao who is on a visit to state also offered prayers at Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in the city earlier in the day.

Later, Rao is also expected to visit Rameswaram and Srirangam temples before returning to Hyderabad.&nbsp;

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao on Monday met his Kerala counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan in Thiruvananthapuram, reported news agency ANI. The meeting between the two leaders took place at the official residence of Kerala chief minister, the report added.

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao on Monday met his Kerala counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan in Thiruvananthapuram, reported news agency ANI. The meeting between the two leaders took place at the official residence of Kerala chief minister, the report added. According to sources, both the Chief Ministers held discussions on contemporary politics in view of ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Rao who is on a visit to state also offered prayers at Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in the city earlier in the day. Later, Rao is also expected to visit Rameswaram and Srirangam temples before returning to Hyderabad.

Telangana CM KCR meets Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) will be heading to the capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, on Monday to meet his counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan.&nbsp;

The two chief ministers are expected to meet at around 6pm today and discuss contemporary politics in the wake of the ongoing Lok Sabha polls.

"Rao will meet Chief Minister of Kerala Pinarayi Vijayan in Thiruvananthapuram on Monday at 6 pm. In view of the parliament elections, both the CMs will discuss contemporary politics," an official release said.&nbsp;

Before returning to Hyderabad, Rao will be paying a visit to Rameswaram and Srirangam temples.&nbsp;

The TRS chief has been a vocal proponent of a non-BJP, non-Congress federal front at the Centre.&nbsp;

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan had previously said that Congress chief Rahul Gandhi contesting from Wayanad means that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-fighting-from-wayanad-means-he-is-fighting-left-not-bjp-kerala-cm-pinari-vijayan-206965">he is fighting against the Left and not the BJP</a>.&nbsp;

There was no need to attach any special importance to the Congress president contesting from the state and Gandhi was just one among the 20 candidates of the opposition UDF, who are trying their luck from Kerala, he said.

"If Gandhi's fight is against the BJP, he should have contested against the saffron party. In Kerala, the fight is between LDF and UDF in the elections," Vijayan said recently.

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) will be heading to the capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, on Monday to meet his counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan.

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) will be heading to the capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, on Monday to meet his counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan. The two chief ministers are expected to meet at around 6pm today and discuss contemporary politics in the wake of the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. "Rao will meet Chief Minister of Kerala Pinarayi Vijayan in Thiruvananthapuram on Monday at 6 pm. In view of the parliament elections, both the CMs will discuss contemporary politics," an official release said. Before returning to Hyderabad, Rao will be paying a visit to Rameswaram and Srirangam temples. The TRS chief has been a vocal proponent of a non-BJP, non-Congress federal front at the Centre. Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan had previously said that Congress chief Rahul Gandhi contesting from Wayanad means that he is fighting against the Left and not the BJP. There was no need to attach any special importance to the Congress president contesting from the state and Gandhi was just one among the 20 candidates of the opposition UDF, who are trying their luck from Kerala, he said. "If Gandhi's fight is against the BJP, he should have contested against the saffron party. In Kerala, the fight is between LDF and UDF in the elections," Vijayan said recently.

KCR and Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan to meet in Trivandrum today, discuss 'contemporary politics' 

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/8-indians-killed-in-easter-blasts-in-sri-lanka-212635">At least 10 Indians are among the dead</a> after a series of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-bombings-death-toll-from-terror-attack-rises-to-310-40-people-arrested-212788">suicide attacks struck Sri Lanka</a> on Sunday afternoon, killing around 310 people.

The High Commission of India in Sri Lanka on Tuesday has confirmed the death of two more Indian nationals taking the toll of Indians died to 10 after a&nbsp;string of blasts ripped through&nbsp;hotels and churches holding Easter services.

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Regret to confirm the deaths of two more Indian nationals Mr. A Maregowda and Mr. H Puttaraju in the blasts in Sri Lanka on Sunday, taking the total number of Indian deaths in the tragedy to 10 as of now.<a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SushmaSwaraj</a>
— India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainSL/status/1120568256811552768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Sunday identified three Indian nationals - Lakshmi, Narayan Chandrashekhar and Ramesh - as the victims of the blasts.

On Sunday, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan identified a Keralite, P S Rasina, among those killed in the deadly blasts. However, there was no confirmation about her from the Lankan authorities. &nbsp;

Sri Lankans observed three minutes of silence early Tuesday to pay tribute to the victims. National flags were lowered and people bowed their heads as the silence began at 8:30 am.

The government has declared a full day of national mourning on Tuesday, with flags at all government institutions lowered to half mast, liquor shops ordered shut and radio stations and television channels expected to play sombre music.

(With inputs from PTI)

At least 10 Indians are among the dead after a series of suicide attacks struck Sri Lanka on Sunday afternoon, killing around 310 people. The High Commission of India in Sri Lanka on Tuesday has confirmed the death of two more Indian nationals taking the toll of Indians died to 10 after a string of blasts ripped through hotels and churches holding Easter services.

At least 10 Indians are among the dead after a series of suicide attacks struck Sri Lanka on Sunday afternoon, killing around 310 people. The High Commission of India in Sri Lanka on Tuesday has confirmed the death of two more Indian nationals taking the toll of Indians died to 10 after a string of blasts ripped through hotels and churches holding Easter services. Regret to confirm the deaths of two more Indian nationals Mr. A Maregowda and Mr. H Puttaraju in the blasts in Sri Lanka on Sunday, taking the total number of Indian deaths in the tragedy to 10 as of now.@SushmaSwaraj — India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) April 23, 2019 × External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Sunday identified three Indian nationals - Lakshmi, Narayan Chandrashekhar and Ramesh - as the victims of the blasts. On Sunday, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan identified a Keralite, P S Rasina, among those killed in the deadly blasts. However, there was no confirmation about her from the Lankan authorities. Sri Lankans observed three minutes of silence early Tuesday to pay tribute to the victims. National flags were lowered and people bowed their heads as the silence began at 8:30 am. The government has declared a full day of national mourning on Tuesday, with flags at all government institutions lowered to half mast, liquor shops ordered shut and radio stations and television channels expected to play sombre music. (With inputs from PTI)

Sri Lanka attacks: 2 more Indian nationals confirmed dead, taking toll to 10

At least eight Indians are among the dead after a string of devastating suicide blasts struck churches and luxury hotels in Sri Lanka, killing 290 people on Easter Sunday, officials said on Monday.

"Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry has confirmed the death of one more individual - H Shivakumar - in the blasts yesterday, taking the total number of Indian deaths in the tragedy to 8 till now," the Indian High Commission in Colombo tweeted.

Earlier in the day, the mission confirmed the deaths of four Indians - Vemurai Tulsiram, S R Nagaraj, K G Hanumantharayappa and M Rangappa.

On Sunday, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj identified three Indian nationals - Lakshmi, Narayan Chandrashekhar and Ramesh - as the victims of the blasts. 
"Indian High Commission in Colombo has conveyed that National Hospital has informed them about the death of three Indian nationals," she tweeted Sunday.

Also on Sunday, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan identified a Keralite, P S Rasina, among those killed in the deadly blasts. However, there was no confirmation about her from the Lankan authorities.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Seven suicide bombers believed to be members of an Islamist extremist group - the National Tawheed Jamath (NTJ) - carried out a series of devastating blasts that tore through three churches and luxury hotels in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday, killing 290 people and wounding 500 others, including Indians, in the country's worst terror attack.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks, but police have so far arrested 24 people - mostly members of the NIJ - in connection with the blasts.

At least eight Indians are among the dead after a string of devastating suicide blasts struck churches and luxury hotels in Sri Lanka, killing 290 people on Easter Sunday, officials said on Monday.

At least eight Indians are among the dead after a string of devastating suicide blasts struck churches and luxury hotels in Sri Lanka, killing 290 people on Easter Sunday, officials said on Monday. "Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry has confirmed the death of one more individual - H Shivakumar - in the blasts yesterday, taking the total number of Indian deaths in the tragedy to 8 till now," the Indian High Commission in Colombo tweeted. Earlier in the day, the mission confirmed the deaths of four Indians - Vemurai Tulsiram, S R Nagaraj, K G Hanumantharayappa and M Rangappa. On Sunday, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj identified three Indian nationals - Lakshmi, Narayan Chandrashekhar and Ramesh - as the victims of the blasts. "Indian High Commission in Colombo has conveyed that National Hospital has informed them about the death of three Indian nationals," she tweeted Sunday. Also on Sunday, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan identified a Keralite, P S Rasina, among those killed in the deadly blasts. However, there was no confirmation about her from the Lankan authorities. Seven suicide bombers believed to be members of an Islamist extremist group - the National Tawheed Jamath (NTJ) - carried out a series of devastating blasts that tore through three churches and luxury hotels in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday, killing 290 people and wounding 500 others, including Indians, in the country's worst terror attack. No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks, but police have so far arrested 24 people - mostly members of the NIJ - in connection with the blasts.

Sri Lanka blasts: Death toll of Indians rises to 8

A Keralite woman and a software engineer from Hyderabad were among the 49 people killed in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pak-foreign-office-confirms-deaths-of-six-pakistanis-in-new-zealand-terror-attack-203741">Christchurch terror attacks</a>.

"Death of Anshi Karippakulam (27) has been confirmed and her family has been intimated," a top police official told PTI.

A man from Hyderabad, who was missing since Friday following the "well-planned" terror attack on Al Noor mosque in Christchurch in New Zealand, has been declared dead by the authorities in New Zealand on Saturday.

The deceased, named Farhaj Ahsan, went to the mosque for Friday's prayers but went missing after the attacks.

Meanwhile, the family members of the deceased are planning to go to New Zealand. Nobody was willing to speak to the media amid the sad reports of Ashan's death.

Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, in his Facebook post, termed as shocking, the news that a Kodungallur native was among those who were killed in the terror attack in New Zealand.

"We have been trying to contact the embassy through Non-Resident Keralites Affairs Department (NORKA-ROOTS) to gather more information.&nbsp; 
We share the grief of the family," Vijayan said.

According to reports, the woman was pursuing her MTech at a university there.

Her husband Abdul Nazer hails from Kochi.

Television channels also aired a visual of a man purportedly saying he was from Moovattupuzha in the State and that he had a narrow escape.

"I had come to the mosque along with a friend. I had a phone call and suddenly heard gunshots and saw a man shooting people and entering the mosque," the man is heard saying in the footage.

He also said he and his friend had a "narrow and lucky escape."

Mass shootings at two mosques full of worshippers attending Friday prayers killed 49 people in New Zealand.

(With inputs from PTI &amp; ANI)

A Keralite woman and a software engineer from Hyderabad were among the 49 people killed in the Christchurch terror attacks. "Death of Anshi Karippakulam (27) has been confirmed and her family has been intimated," a top police official told PTI.

A Keralite woman and a software engineer from Hyderabad were among the 49 people killed in the Christchurch terror attacks. "Death of Anshi Karippakulam (27) has been confirmed and her family has been intimated," a top police official told PTI. A man from Hyderabad, who was missing since Friday following the "well-planned" terror attack on Al Noor mosque in Christchurch in New Zealand, has been declared dead by the authorities in New Zealand on Saturday. The deceased, named Farhaj Ahsan, went to the mosque for Friday's prayers but went missing after the attacks. Meanwhile, the family members of the deceased are planning to go to New Zealand. Nobody was willing to speak to the media amid the sad reports of Ashan's death. Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, in his Facebook post, termed as shocking, the news that a Kodungallur native was among those who were killed in the terror attack in New Zealand. "We have been trying to contact the embassy through Non-Resident Keralites Affairs Department (NORKA-ROOTS) to gather more information. We share the grief of the family," Vijayan said. According to reports, the woman was pursuing her MTech at a university there. Her husband Abdul Nazer hails from Kochi. Television channels also aired a visual of a man purportedly saying he was from Moovattupuzha in the State and that he had a narrow escape. "I had come to the mosque along with a friend. I had a phone call and suddenly heard gunshots and saw a man shooting people and entering the mosque," the man is heard saying in the footage. He also said he and his friend had a "narrow and lucky escape." Mass shootings at two mosques full of worshippers attending Friday prayers killed 49 people in New Zealand. (With inputs from PTI & ANI)

Two Indians among 49 killed in New Zealand terror attack

The Kerala government Tuesday announced financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh to the family of V V Vasanth Kumar, the CRPF personnel from the state who was killed in the recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir.

A state cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, also took the decision to meet the educational expenses of 44-year-old jawan's two children- son Amandeep (5) and daughter Anamika (8).

Vijayan later told reporters that steps would be taken to make permanent the temporary job of Vasanth's wife Sheena, who is now working as an assistant at the veterinary university.

A new house would be constructed for the grieving family of the slain jawan, hailing from Wayanad district, he said.

"The government is sharing the grief over the killing of 40 CRPF personnel who had lost life in the terror attack in Pulwama.

One of our brothers, hailing from Wayanad, also was among them," the Chief Minister said.

"We have decided to extend helping hand to his family. For that, the government will give Rs 25 lakh as financial assistance to them--Rs 15 lakh to his wife and 10 lakh to his mother," he said.

Forty CRPF personnel were killed on February 14, in one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir when a Jaish-e-Mohammad suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into their bus in Pulwama district.

The Kerala government Tuesday announced financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh to the family of V V Vasanth Kumar, the CRPF personnel from the state who was killed in the recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Kerala government Tuesday announced financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh to the family of V V Vasanth Kumar, the CRPF personnel from the state who was killed in the recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. A state cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, also took the decision to meet the educational expenses of 44-year-old jawan's two children- son Amandeep (5) and daughter Anamika (8). Vijayan later told reporters that steps would be taken to make permanent the temporary job of Vasanth's wife Sheena, who is now working as an assistant at the veterinary university. A new house would be constructed for the grieving family of the slain jawan, hailing from Wayanad district, he said. "The government is sharing the grief over the killing of 40 CRPF personnel who had lost life in the terror attack in Pulwama. One of our brothers, hailing from Wayanad, also was among them," the Chief Minister said. "We have decided to extend helping hand to his family. For that, the government will give Rs 25 lakh as financial assistance to them--Rs 15 lakh to his wife and 10 lakh to his mother," he said. Forty CRPF personnel were killed on February 14, in one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir when a Jaish-e-Mohammad suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into their bus in Pulwama district.

Pulwama attack: Kerala government announces Rs 25 lakh to slain CRPF jawan's family

After witnessing unprecedented protests over the entry of women of menstruating age, the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala was closed Sunday marking the culmination of the over two-month-long stormy annual pilgrimage season.

As the temple closed, the opposition BJP ended its 49-day-long relay hunger strike staged in front of the Secretariat, the administrative hub in Thiruvananthapuram, demanding the lifting of prohibitory orders and restrictions at Sabarimala, which the LDF government rejected.

While Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan Sunday lashed out at the Sangh Parivar and said their Sabarimala stir was a "complete failure", BJP state president P S Sreedharan Pillai claimed the agitations were aimed at protecting the traditional faith of devotees and it had won in garnering mass support.

The Sabarimala Karma Samithi, the rightwing forum which spearheaded the agitations against the entry of young women into the shrine, is all set to organise a mass gathering of devotees, spiritual and cultural leaders in the state capital this evening.

The sanctum sanctorum of the hill temple was closed at 6.15 am after darshan by P Raghava Varma Raja, representative of the erstwhile Pandalam royal family, attached to the centuries-old shrine.

After the customary 'bhasmabhishekam', the portals of the shrine were closed with the singing of 'Harivarasanam'.

With this, the tumultuous 67-day long annual pilgrimage season at Sabarimala concluded and the Lord Ayyappa temple would be reopened on February 13 for the monthly poojas in the Malayalam month, Kumbham, sources said.

The annual pilgrimage season this time witnessed widespread protests from frenzied devotees and rightwing groups over the CPI(M)-led LDF government's decision to implement the September 28 Supreme Court verdict allowing women of all ages to enter the hilltop shrine.

The decision of the state government was described as a "shameful act" by Prime Minister Narendra Modi when he attended a BJP convention at Kollam in southern Kerala.

Traditionally, women of menstruating age or in the age group of 10 to 50 years were not allowed to enter the temple as the deity, Lord Ayyappa, was in the form of "Naishtika brahmachari" (perennial celibate).

The temple witnessed the first round of protests during the monthly 'Thulamasa' pooja when it was opened for five days in October.

Several mediapersons and women devotees of traditionally accepted age were injured in the protests which were spearheaded by the BJP-RSS led groups.

Later, when the temple was opened for the annual pilgrimage season on November 17, the situation at Sannidhanam (temple complex), which is around 3.5 kilometres uphill from Pamba, was calm but the state witnessed frenzied protests from the right-wing groups under the aegis of "Sabarimala Karma Samiti."

During the melee, BJP leaders K Surendran, K P Sasikala attempted to visit the shrine defying the prohibitory orders but were arrested.

The Sabarimala Karma Samiti held an event 'Ayyappa Jyothi' (lighting of sacred lamp) on December 26, to protest against the government's decision, which the LDF government countered by organising a 620-km-long "women's wall" across the state.

During the season, over two dozen women devotees, of whom some were branded as activists, unsuccessfully attempted to trek the hill.

However, on January 2, two women of the traditionally barred age group--Kanakadurga (44) and Bindhu (42)-- trekked the hill and offered prayers at the shrine without facing any troubles from the devotees.

This led to widespread violence across the state and the Samiti, with the support of BJP, called for a hartal on January 3.

The state witnessed unprecedented violence during the hartal with houses of both CPI(M) and BJP leaders being attacked.

The hartal, which was the seventh one declared in the state in two months time, also led to some serious decisions being taken by the business community.

The Kerala Vyapari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samiti, the apex body of traders in the state, and various other organisations including travel and tourism industry, attempted to thwart the January 3 hartal call unsuccessfully.

A Samiti activist died in stone-pelting during the protest march at Pandalam, a place associated with Sabarimala, and a couple of CPI(M) activists were arrested in this regard.

Later, a Sri Lankan woman also visited the shrine, which was confirmed by the chief minister.

The BJP protest in front of the Secretariat in the state capital lost steam after the party failed to field known leaders for the 'fast'. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The government filed an affidavit in the apex court saying 51 young women had entered the temple during the season. However, it came to light that most of the names in the list were either above the traditionally barred age group or were not women.

All the major political parties in the state including the CPI(M), Congress and the BJP have indicated that they will try to cash in on the Sabarimala related developments in the upcoming Parliamentary elections.

Addressing a workshop in the state capital Sunday, the CM said the Sabarimala stir was led by the "advocates of casteism".

"Devotees are well aware of the developments. Some had tried to make the devotees believe that the state government was against them. But this government is not against devotees," he said.

Lashing out at the Sangh Parivar, he alleged the right wing forces were trying to 'sabotage' the progressive achievements of the state.

Pandalam royal family member, Sashikumar Varma said they were ready for any talks with the government to settle the issue amicably.

After witnessing unprecedented protests over the entry of women of menstruating age, the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala was closed Sunday marking the culmination of the over two-month-long stormy annual pilgrimage season.

After witnessing unprecedented protests over the entry of women of menstruating age, the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala was closed Sunday marking the culmination of the over two-month-long stormy annual pilgrimage season. As the temple closed, the opposition BJP ended its 49-day-long relay hunger strike staged in front of the Secretariat, the administrative hub in Thiruvananthapuram, demanding the lifting of prohibitory orders and restrictions at Sabarimala, which the LDF government rejected. While Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan Sunday lashed out at the Sangh Parivar and said their Sabarimala stir was a "complete failure", BJP state president P S Sreedharan Pillai claimed the agitations were aimed at protecting the traditional faith of devotees and it had won in garnering mass support. The Sabarimala Karma Samithi, the rightwing forum which spearheaded the agitations against the entry of young women into the shrine, is all set to organise a mass gathering of devotees, spiritual and cultural leaders in the state capital this evening. The sanctum sanctorum of the hill temple was closed at 6.15 am after darshan by P Raghava Varma Raja, representative of the erstwhile Pandalam royal family, attached to the centuries-old shrine. After the customary 'bhasmabhishekam', the portals of the shrine were closed with the singing of 'Harivarasanam'. With this, the tumultuous 67-day long annual pilgrimage season at Sabarimala concluded and the Lord Ayyappa temple would be reopened on February 13 for the monthly poojas in the Malayalam month, Kumbham, sources said. The annual pilgrimage season this time witnessed widespread protests from frenzied devotees and rightwing groups over the CPI(M)-led LDF government's decision to implement the September 28 Supreme Court verdict allowing women of all ages to enter the hilltop shrine. The decision of the state government was described as a "shameful act" by Prime Minister Narendra Modi when he attended a BJP convention at Kollam in southern Kerala. Traditionally, women of menstruating age or in the age group of 10 to 50 years were not allowed to enter the temple as the deity, Lord Ayyappa, was in the form of "Naishtika brahmachari" (perennial celibate). The temple witnessed the first round of protests during the monthly 'Thulamasa' pooja when it was opened for five days in October. Several mediapersons and women devotees of traditionally accepted age were injured in the protests which were spearheaded by the BJP-RSS led groups. Later, when the temple was opened for the annual pilgrimage season on November 17, the situation at Sannidhanam (temple complex), which is around 3.5 kilometres uphill from Pamba, was calm but the state witnessed frenzied protests from the right-wing groups under the aegis of "Sabarimala Karma Samiti." During the melee, BJP leaders K Surendran, K P Sasikala attempted to visit the shrine defying the prohibitory orders but were arrested. The Sabarimala Karma Samiti held an event 'Ayyappa Jyothi' (lighting of sacred lamp) on December 26, to protest against the government's decision, which the LDF government countered by organising a 620-km-long "women's wall" across the state. During the season, over two dozen women devotees, of whom some were branded as activists, unsuccessfully attempted to trek the hill. However, on January 2, two women of the traditionally barred age group--Kanakadurga (44) and Bindhu (42)-- trekked the hill and offered prayers at the shrine without facing any troubles from the devotees. This led to widespread violence across the state and the Samiti, with the support of BJP, called for a hartal on January 3. The state witnessed unprecedented violence during the hartal with houses of both CPI(M) and BJP leaders being attacked. The hartal, which was the seventh one declared in the state in two months time, also led to some serious decisions being taken by the business community. The Kerala Vyapari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samiti, the apex body of traders in the state, and various other organisations including travel and tourism industry, attempted to thwart the January 3 hartal call unsuccessfully. A Samiti activist died in stone-pelting during the protest march at Pandalam, a place associated with Sabarimala, and a couple of CPI(M) activists were arrested in this regard. Later, a Sri Lankan woman also visited the shrine, which was confirmed by the chief minister. The BJP protest in front of the Secretariat in the state capital lost steam after the party failed to field known leaders for the 'fast'. The government filed an affidavit in the apex court saying 51 young women had entered the temple during the season. However, it came to light that most of the names in the list were either above the traditionally barred age group or were not women. All the major political parties in the state including the CPI(M), Congress and the BJP have indicated that they will try to cash in on the Sabarimala related developments in the upcoming Parliamentary elections. Addressing a workshop in the state capital Sunday, the CM said the Sabarimala stir was led by the "advocates of casteism". "Devotees are well aware of the developments. Some had tried to make the devotees believe that the state government was against them. But this government is not against devotees," he said. Lashing out at the Sangh Parivar, he alleged the right wing forces were trying to 'sabotage' the progressive achievements of the state. Pandalam royal family member, Sashikumar Varma said they were ready for any talks with the government to settle the issue amicably.

Sabarimala temple closes after annual pilgrimage season; political war continues

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Tuesday that the conduct of the Kerala government in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kanaka-durga-one-of-the-women-who-entered-sabarimala-temple-allegedly-thrashed-by-mother-in-law-190500">the Sabarimala issue</a> will go down as one of the "most shameful" in history. Modi was speaking in Kollam, Kerala.&nbsp;

"The conduct of Kerala LDF government on Sabarimala issue will go down in history as one of the most shameful behaviour by any party and government. We knew that communists do not respect Indian history, culture and spirituality but nobody imagined that they will have such hatred," Modi said.&nbsp;

Modi added that the Congress was "no better".&nbsp;

"UDF is no better. Congress has multiple stands — they say one thing in Parliament but a different thing in Pathanamthitta," he said.&nbsp;

"Our stand on this issue has always been clear. And, the actions of our party match our words," he added.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court decreed in September 2018 that women should be allowed to visit Kerala's Sabarimala temple. The temple had until then been off-limits to women between the ages of 10 and 50.&nbsp;

The reason for the ban is that it is believed that the temple deity, Lord Ayappa, has vowed to stay celibate. And that he will look at a woman only when he is ready to marry her.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court decree was met by massive resistance, with both the BJP and Congress mobilising people against it.&nbsp;

Kerala Chief Minister Pinari Vijayan on the other hand has said repeatedly that the Supreme Court order has to be enforced.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Modi said the Left and Congress work against gender and social justice.&nbsp;

"Left and Congress make tall claims about respect to gender justice and social justice but their actions are exactly the opposite. NDA Government has been working towards abolishing Triple Talaq," Modi said.&nbsp;

"Who is opposing us on this?" he asked. "Communists and the Congress," he answered.&nbsp;

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PM in Kollam, Kerala: UDF and LDF are different in name but in neglecting Kerala's yuva shakti, they are same. UDF and LDF are different in name but in ignoring the poor, they are same. UDF and LDF are different in name but in cheating the people of Kerala, they are same. <a href="https://t.co/bbNuse17uV">pic.twitter.com/bbNuse17uV</a>
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PM Modi in Kerala: UDF &amp; LDF are two sides of the same old coin. Different in name, but in corruption, casteism &amp; communalism, they are same. Different in name, but in damaging Kerala's cultural fabric, they are same. Different in name, but in political violence, they are same. <a href="https://t.co/rAbyxgb3UW">https://t.co/rAbyxgb3UW</a>
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Modi on Tuesday also referred to his government's recent 10% quota for the upper castes saying his government believed every Indian, irrespective of caste, deserved "equal opportunity".&nbsp;

And he mentioned India's upward movement in the ease of doing business rankings.&nbsp;

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PM Modi in Kollam, Kerala: 4 years back, did anyone even think of improving Ease of Doing Business rankings? In fact, this term was missing from the dictionary of policymakers. In 4 years, we have moved up from rank 142 to rank 77, one of the fastest improvements in the world. <a href="https://t.co/VlHfXxAp8h">pic.twitter.com/VlHfXxAp8h</a>
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&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Tuesday that the conduct of the Kerala government in the Sabarimala issue will go down as one of the "most shameful" in history.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Tuesday that the conduct of the Kerala government in the Sabarimala issue will go down as one of the "most shameful" in history. Modi was speaking in Kollam, Kerala. "The conduct of Kerala LDF government on Sabarimala issue will go down in history as one of the most shameful behaviour by any party and government. We knew that communists do not respect Indian history, culture and spirituality but nobody imagined that they will have such hatred," Modi said. Modi added that the Congress was "no better". "UDF is no better. Congress has multiple stands — they say one thing in Parliament but a different thing in Pathanamthitta," he said. "Our stand on this issue has always been clear. And, the actions of our party match our words," he added. The Supreme Court decreed in September 2018 that women should be allowed to visit Kerala's Sabarimala temple. The temple had until then been off-limits to women between the ages of 10 and 50. The reason for the ban is that it is believed that the temple deity, Lord Ayappa, has vowed to stay celibate. And that he will look at a woman only when he is ready to marry her. The Supreme Court decree was met by massive resistance, with both the BJP and Congress mobilising people against it. Kerala Chief Minister Pinari Vijayan on the other hand has said repeatedly that the Supreme Court order has to be enforced. On Tuesday, Modi said the Left and Congress work against gender and social justice. "Left and Congress make tall claims about respect to gender justice and social justice but their actions are exactly the opposite. NDA Government has been working towards abolishing Triple Talaq," Modi said. "Who is opposing us on this?" he asked. "Communists and the Congress," he answered. PM in Kollam, Kerala: UDF and LDF are different in name but in neglecting Kerala's yuva shakti, they are same. UDF and LDF are different in name but in ignoring the poor, they are same. UDF and LDF are different in name but in cheating the people of Kerala, they are same. pic.twitter.com/bbNuse17uV — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2019 × PM Modi in Kerala: UDF & LDF are two sides of the same old coin. Different in name, but in corruption, casteism & communalism, they are same. Different in name, but in damaging Kerala's cultural fabric, they are same. Different in name, but in political violence, they are same. https://t.co/rAbyxgb3UW — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2019 × Modi on Tuesday also referred to his government's recent 10% quota for the upper castes saying his government believed every Indian, irrespective of caste, deserved "equal opportunity". And he mentioned India's upward movement in the ease of doing business rankings. PM Narendra Modi in Kollam, Kerala: 4 years back did anyone think that India could be the fastest growing economy? In 4 years, we have made the transition from being one of the fragile five nations to the fastest growing economy. pic.twitter.com/MxAktXE7s0 — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2019 × PM Modi in Kollam, Kerala: 4 years back, did anyone even think of improving Ease of Doing Business rankings? In fact, this term was missing from the dictionary of policymakers. In 4 years, we have moved up from rank 142 to rank 77, one of the fastest improvements in the world. pic.twitter.com/VlHfXxAp8h — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2019 ×

Conduct of Kerala govt on Sabarimala issue will go down in history as 'most shameful': Modi

Violence continued over the entry of two women of menstruating age into the revered Sabarimala temple, as unidentified people hurled a country-made bomb at the ancestral home of BJP MP and set fire to an office of the RSS here, police said on Saturday.&nbsp;

The two fresh incidents of violence were reported hours after unidentified men threw country-made bombs at the houses of CPI(M) MLA AN Shamsee and the party's former Kannur district secretary P Sasi.

The incident at the ancestral house of BJP Rajya Sabha member V Muraleedharan occurred in the early hours of Saturday. No one was injured, police said.

Muraleedharan said his ancestral home at Vadiyil Peedikia near Thalassery came under attack, but no one was injured.

"My sister, brother-in-law and their daughter were in the house when the attack took place," he told PTI from Andhra Pradesh.

In another incident, unidentified people set fire to an office of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Pariyaram area in the morning, police sources told PTI.

The entry of two women into the hill shrine on Wednesday, the first time since the Supreme Court in September last year lifted the age-linked ban on the entry of women devotees, triggered massive protests in Kerala.&nbsp;

Muraleedharan had sought a probe by the NIA into the "conspiracy" of police escorting the two women with Maoist links to Sabarimala.

So far, over 1,700 people have been arrested in connection with violence in various parts of the state.

Talking to the media Saturday morning, Sasi said the "powerful" bomb hurled at his house caused damage to the building.

The two fresh incidents of violence were reported hours after unidentified men threw country-made bombs at the houses of CPI(M) MLA A N Shamsee and the party's former Kannur district secretary P Sasi.

Violence continued over the entry of two women of menstruating age into the revered Sabarimala temple, as unidentified people hurled a country-made bomb at the ancestral home of BJP MP and set fire to an office of the RSS here, police said on Saturday. The two fresh incidents of violence were reported hours after unidentified men threw country-made bombs at the houses of CPI(M) MLA AN Shamsee and the party's former Kannur district secretary P Sasi. The incident at the ancestral house of BJP Rajya Sabha member V Muraleedharan occurred in the early hours of Saturday. No one was injured, police said. Muraleedharan said his ancestral home at Vadiyil Peedikia near Thalassery came under attack, but no one was injured. "My sister, brother-in-law and their daughter were in the house when the attack took place," he told PTI from Andhra Pradesh. In another incident, unidentified people set fire to an office of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Pariyaram area in the morning, police sources told PTI. The entry of two women into the hill shrine on Wednesday, the first time since the Supreme Court in September last year lifted the age-linked ban on the entry of women devotees, triggered massive protests in Kerala. Muraleedharan had sought a probe by the NIA into the "conspiracy" of police escorting the two women with Maoist links to Sabarimala. So far, over 1,700 people have been arrested in connection with violence in various parts of the state. Talking to the media Saturday morning, Sasi said the "powerful" bomb hurled at his house caused damage to the building.

Sabarimala violence: BJP MP's ancestral home attacked; RSS office set on fire 

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday reacted over a 12-hour dawn-to-dusk shutdown called by Hindu outfits in various parts of the state.

Speaking to media in Trivandrum, Vijayan said, "Conducting hartal (shutdown) in name of women's entry into Sabarimala temple is like calling hartal (shutdown) against Supreme Court order".

He added that "It is the government's responsibility to give protection to women. The government has fulfilled this constitutional responsibility."&nbsp;

Vijayan then hit out at those calling the shutdown saying that "Sangh Parivar is trying to make Sabarimala into a clash zone."

He also said that the "Violence unleashed by them will be dealt with&nbsp;strongly."

A 12-hour shutdown has been called by Hindu outfits today to mark protest against the entry of two women of menstruating age into the Sabarimala temple of Lord Ayyappa on Wednesday.

The demonstrators today blocked roads,&nbsp;vandalised vehicles and burned&nbsp;tyres in the morning.

BJP workers and Sabarimala Karma Samiti along with other protestors also organised a march in various cities of Kerala.

Following the shutdown today, seven police vehicles and 79 KSRTC buses have been destroyed till now, Vijayan informed media.

"Thirty-nine police personnel have also been attacked out of which most were women,"&nbsp;Vijayan said.

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Kerala CM on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a> issue: It's government's responsibility to give protection to women. The government has fulfilled this constitutional responsibility. Sangh Parivar is trying to make Sabarimala into a clash zone. <a href="https://t.co/W5CaVQsnu7">pic.twitter.com/W5CaVQsnu7</a>
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The police, meanwhile, arrested two people and detained two others for attacking a Special Branch Women Police personnel on duty in the rural area of Ernakulam district last night, news agency ANI reported.

On Wednesday, two women, Bindu and Kanakdurga, both in their late 40s, entered Sabarimala temple to offer prayers following which the state witnessed a string of violent protests. Protestors pelted stones, raised slogans and hurled abuses against each other. Following the women's entry, the Lord Ayyappa temple was also shut down for an hour for ''purification" rituals.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court refused to accord urgent hearing on a contempt petition moved by a lawyers' group against Sabarimala temple authorities for closing the shrine following the women's entry into the temple.

Speaking to media in Trivandrum, Vijayan said, 'Conducting hartal (shutdown) in name of women's entry into Sabarimala temple is like calling hartal (shutdown) against Supreme Court order'.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday reacted over a 12-hour dawn-to-dusk shutdown called by Hindu outfits in various parts of the state. Speaking to media in Trivandrum, Vijayan said, "Conducting hartal (shutdown) in name of women's entry into Sabarimala temple is like calling hartal (shutdown) against Supreme Court order". He added that "It is the government's responsibility to give protection to women. The government has fulfilled this constitutional responsibility." Vijayan then hit out at those calling the shutdown saying that "Sangh Parivar is trying to make Sabarimala into a clash zone." He also said that the "Violence unleashed by them will be dealt with strongly." A 12-hour shutdown has been called by Hindu outfits today to mark protest against the entry of two women of menstruating age into the Sabarimala temple of Lord Ayyappa on Wednesday. The demonstrators today blocked roads, vandalised vehicles and burned tyres in the morning. BJP workers and Sabarimala Karma Samiti along with other protestors also organised a march in various cities of Kerala. Following the shutdown today, seven police vehicles and 79 KSRTC buses have been destroyed till now, Vijayan informed media. "Thirty-nine police personnel have also been attacked out of which most were women," Vijayan said. Kerala CM on #SabarimalaTemple issue: It's government's responsibility to give protection to women. The government has fulfilled this constitutional responsibility. Sangh Parivar is trying to make Sabarimala into a clash zone. pic.twitter.com/W5CaVQsnu7 — ANI (@ANI) January 3, 2019 × The police, meanwhile, arrested two people and detained two others for attacking a Special Branch Women Police personnel on duty in the rural area of Ernakulam district last night, news agency ANI reported. On Wednesday, two women, Bindu and Kanakdurga, both in their late 40s, entered Sabarimala temple to offer prayers following which the state witnessed a string of violent protests. Protestors pelted stones, raised slogans and hurled abuses against each other. Following the women's entry, the Lord Ayyappa temple was also shut down for an hour for ''purification" rituals. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court refused to accord urgent hearing on a contempt petition moved by a lawyers' group against Sabarimala temple authorities for closing the shrine following the women's entry into the temple.

We have fulfilled our responsibility, others are trying to make Sabarimala a clash zone: Kerala CM

Two <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-first-after-supreme-court-verdict-2-women-below-50-enter-sabarimala-temple-187812">women in their 40s entered Sabarimala temple</a> on Wednesday and offered prayers at the main shrine. The incident has been confirmed by Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

Speaking to media CM Vijayan said,&nbsp;"Today, two women entered Sabarimala temple. We had issued standing orders to police to provide all possible protection to any woman who wants to enter the temple."

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Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan: Today, two women entered <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a>. We had issued standing orders to police to provide all possible protection to any woman who wants to enter the temple. <a href="https://t.co/GdfS2BEi6i">pic.twitter.com/GdfS2BEi6i</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1080327690689961986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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According to reports, the women -- identified as&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-row-women-pilgrims-made-to-return-from-lord-ayyappa-shrine-186126">Bindu and Kanakdurga</a> -- trekked to the hill shrine early Wednesday. They offered their prayers at 3:45 am.

The video posted by news agency ANI showed them entering the shrine, wearing black clothes, with their heads covered.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Two women devotees Bindu and Kanakdurga entered &amp; offered prayers at Kerala's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a> at 3.45am today <a href="https://t.co/hXDWcUTVXA">pic.twitter.com/hXDWcUTVXA</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1080307598216384519?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president A Padmakumar said he had no information about the women offering prayers at the temple.

TDB officials have been asked to view CCTV footage to verify their claim.

The temple authorities have shut the temple following the entry of both women, purification rituals have been called for.

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Kerala's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a> shut for purification rituals. Two women devotees in their 40's had entered the temple in the early morning hours today. <a href="https://t.co/jMefTpCsCE">pic.twitter.com/jMefTpCsCE</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1080329192355627008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Bindu, a college lecturer and CPI(ML) activist from Kozhikode district's Koyilandy, and Kanakadurga, a civil supplies employee from Angadipuram in Malappuram, had come to Sabarimala on December 24 after 11 women activists of a Chennai-based outfit were prevented from reaching the shrine and chased away by devotees chanting Ayyappa mantras.

The temple was opened on December 30 for the Makaravillaku festival and there has been a heavy rush of pilgrims.

On Tuesday, lakhs of women from various walks of life -- writers, athletes, actors, politicians and techies, government officials and homemakers -- formed a 620km <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-row-kerala-women-form-620-km-long-human-wall-to-uphold-gender-equality-187767">human wall </a>as they stood across the highways crisscrossing through the 14 districts in the state&nbsp;as part of a state-sponsored initiative to uphold gender equality.

Expressing solidarity, thousands of men also lined up parallel forming a second human 'wall'.

The temple had witnessed protests from frenzied devotees over the entry of women in the 10-50 age group in the shrine after the CPI(M)-led LDF government decided to implement a Supreme Court order allowing women of all age to offer prayers there.

The main opposition Congress-led UDF and the BJP has been opposing the entry of young women, saying they are with the devotees.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Following the entry of both women, the temple has been shut for purification rituals.

Two women in their 40s entered Sabarimala temple on Wednesday and offered prayers at the main shrine. The incident has been confirmed by Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Speaking to media CM Vijayan said, "Today, two women entered Sabarimala temple. We had issued standing orders to police to provide all possible protection to any woman who wants to enter the temple." Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan: Today, two women entered #SabarimalaTemple. We had issued standing orders to police to provide all possible protection to any woman who wants to enter the temple. pic.twitter.com/GdfS2BEi6i — ANI (@ANI) January 2, 2019 × According to reports, the women -- identified as Bindu and Kanakdurga -- trekked to the hill shrine early Wednesday. They offered their prayers at 3:45 am. The video posted by news agency ANI showed them entering the shrine, wearing black clothes, with their heads covered. #WATCH Two women devotees Bindu and Kanakdurga entered & offered prayers at Kerala's #SabarimalaTemple at 3.45am today pic.twitter.com/hXDWcUTVXA — ANI (@ANI) January 2, 2019 × Meanwhile, Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president A Padmakumar said he had no information about the women offering prayers at the temple. TDB officials have been asked to view CCTV footage to verify their claim. The temple authorities have shut the temple following the entry of both women, purification rituals have been called for. Kerala's #SabarimalaTemple shut for purification rituals. Two women devotees in their 40's had entered the temple in the early morning hours today. pic.twitter.com/jMefTpCsCE — ANI (@ANI) January 2, 2019 × Bindu, a college lecturer and CPI(ML) activist from Kozhikode district's Koyilandy, and Kanakadurga, a civil supplies employee from Angadipuram in Malappuram, had come to Sabarimala on December 24 after 11 women activists of a Chennai-based outfit were prevented from reaching the shrine and chased away by devotees chanting Ayyappa mantras. The temple was opened on December 30 for the Makaravillaku festival and there has been a heavy rush of pilgrims. On Tuesday, lakhs of women from various walks of life -- writers, athletes, actors, politicians and techies, government officials and homemakers -- formed a 620km human wall as they stood across the highways crisscrossing through the 14 districts in the state as part of a state-sponsored initiative to uphold gender equality. Expressing solidarity, thousands of men also lined up parallel forming a second human 'wall'. The temple had witnessed protests from frenzied devotees over the entry of women in the 10-50 age group in the shrine after the CPI(M)-led LDF government decided to implement a Supreme Court order allowing women of all age to offer prayers there. The main opposition Congress-led UDF and the BJP has been opposing the entry of young women, saying they are with the devotees. (With inputs from agencies)

Sabarimala: Kerala CM confirms entry of 2 women, TDP board denies; temple shut for purification

In a first, lakhs of women stood should-to-shoulder across the national highways in Kerala, creating a 620 km-long human 'wall' from the northern end of Kasaragod to the southern tip here on Tuesday as part of a state-sponsored initiative to uphold gender equality.

The event comes days after thousands of devotees lit 'Ayyappa Jyothies' (lighting of sacred lamps) and lined up from Hosangadi in Kasargod to Kanyakumari, vowing to protect the age-old customs and traditions of Sabarimala.

On Tuesday, women from various walks of life -- writers, athletes, actors, politicians and techies, government officials and homemakers -- stood across the highways crisscrossing through the 14 districts in the state as the event commenced at 4 pm.

Expressing solidarity, thousands of men also lined up parallel forming a second human 'wall'.

The 'Women's wall' was conceived in the backdrop of frenzied protests witnessed in the hill shrine of Lord Ayyappa at Sabarimala after the CPI(M)-led LDF government decided to implement the Supreme Court verdict, allowing all women to pray at the Ayyappa shrine.

The event is part of an initiative to protect secular values, gender equality and to spread a message against those trying to push society into the dark ages, organisers of the programme said.

Before the formal start of the event, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan garlanded the statue of social reformer 'Ayyankali'.

CPI(M) politburo member Brinda Karat and CPI leader Annie Raja also paid floral tributes at the statue.

Vijayan had earlier expressed confidence that women, cutting across lines of caste and religion, would join the 'wall' to save Kerala from being "dragged back into the era of darkness."

CPI(M) state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan had earlier said that 50 lakh women were expected to take part in the event.

Health minister K K Shylaja led the 'Women's Wall' at Kasaragod and Karat was the last person at the end at Vellayambalam here.

School students were given half-day holiday, while universities postponed exams scheduled for Tuesday.

The government employees and Technopark employees were allegedly asked to take part in the event, which the main opposition Congress-led UDF dubbed "caste wall" and "wall of contradictions".

The participants began lining up at the designated centres since 3 pm. A rehearsal was also held.

The 'wall' was formed at 4 pm, with participants taking a pledge to uphold gender equality and renaissance values.

The campaign was suggested at a meeting called by the LDF government following massive protests by right-wing parties and a section of devotees over the government's decision to implement the September 28 apex court order, allowing women of all ages to offer prayers at Sabarimala.

In a first, lakhs of women stood should-to-shoulder across the national highways in Kerala, creating a 620 km-long human 'wall' from the northern end of Kasaragod to the southern tip here on Tuesday as part of a state-sponsored initiative to uphold gender equality.

In a first, lakhs of women stood should-to-shoulder across the national highways in Kerala, creating a 620 km-long human 'wall' from the northern end of Kasaragod to the southern tip here on Tuesday as part of a state-sponsored initiative to uphold gender equality. The event comes days after thousands of devotees lit 'Ayyappa Jyothies' (lighting of sacred lamps) and lined up from Hosangadi in Kasargod to Kanyakumari, vowing to protect the age-old customs and traditions of Sabarimala. On Tuesday, women from various walks of life -- writers, athletes, actors, politicians and techies, government officials and homemakers -- stood across the highways crisscrossing through the 14 districts in the state as the event commenced at 4 pm. Expressing solidarity, thousands of men also lined up parallel forming a second human 'wall'. The 'Women's wall' was conceived in the backdrop of frenzied protests witnessed in the hill shrine of Lord Ayyappa at Sabarimala after the CPI(M)-led LDF government decided to implement the Supreme Court verdict, allowing all women to pray at the Ayyappa shrine. The event is part of an initiative to protect secular values, gender equality and to spread a message against those trying to push society into the dark ages, organisers of the programme said. Before the formal start of the event, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan garlanded the statue of social reformer 'Ayyankali'. CPI(M) politburo member Brinda Karat and CPI leader Annie Raja also paid floral tributes at the statue. Vijayan had earlier expressed confidence that women, cutting across lines of caste and religion, would join the 'wall' to save Kerala from being "dragged back into the era of darkness." CPI(M) state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan had earlier said that 50 lakh women were expected to take part in the event. Health minister K K Shylaja led the 'Women's Wall' at Kasaragod and Karat was the last person at the end at Vellayambalam here. School students were given half-day holiday, while universities postponed exams scheduled for Tuesday. The government employees and Technopark employees were allegedly asked to take part in the event, which the main opposition Congress-led UDF dubbed "caste wall" and "wall of contradictions". The participants began lining up at the designated centres since 3 pm. A rehearsal was also held. The 'wall' was formed at 4 pm, with participants taking a pledge to uphold gender equality and renaissance values. The campaign was suggested at a meeting called by the LDF government following massive protests by right-wing parties and a section of devotees over the government's decision to implement the September 28 apex court order, allowing women of all ages to offer prayers at Sabarimala.

Sabarimala row: Kerala women form 620-km long human 'wall' to uphold gender equality 

&nbsp;Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan Sunday appealed to the Centre not to lease out the Thiruvananthapuram airport under Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode and requested it to entrust the aerodrome's management with the state government.

The Union Cabinet has recently approved a proposal to manage Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, Guwahati, Mangaluru besides Thiruvananthapuram airports under PPP mode.

At the inauguration of the Kannur International airport, Vijayan said, "We can set up a special purpose vehicle (SPV) and manage the airport in a remarkable way. We are ready to take over the management of the Karipur International airport (Calicut) also if the Centre has any similar plans in future."

The feasibility study of a new airport proposed to be built at Erumeli near Sabarimala Temple was going on, the chief minister said and requested the Centre's support for the project as well.

Accusing the Congress-led UDF of delaying the Kannur airport project when it was in power, Vijayan said the alliance, which ruled the state between 2001 and 2006, had done nothing to make the long-pending dream a reality.

"The project got a fresh lease of life after the VS Achuthanandan government came to power in 2006," he said.

Vijayan alleged that the Ommen Chandy government had tried to create an impression that work on the airport was completed and carried out its inauguration before the LDF came to power in 2016.

"An Indian Air Force aircraft, which can land anywhere, was brought here and people were invited saying that the airport was being inaugurated," Vijayan said, adding the same airport has now been opened in its full-fledged form, two-and-a-half years after his government came to power.

BJP president Amit Shah had arrived at Kannur in a chartered flight on October 27 before the airport was formally inaugurated.

With the commissioning of the Kannur airport, Kerala has become the first in the country to have four international airports, with Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode being the other three.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan Sunday appealed to the Centre not to lease out the Thiruvananthapuram airport under Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode and requested it to entrust the aerodrome's management with the state government.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan Sunday appealed to the Centre not to lease out the Thiruvananthapuram airport under Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode and requested it to entrust the aerodrome's management with the state government. The Union Cabinet has recently approved a proposal to manage Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, Guwahati, Mangaluru besides Thiruvananthapuram airports under PPP mode. At the inauguration of the Kannur International airport, Vijayan said, "We can set up a special purpose vehicle (SPV) and manage the airport in a remarkable way. We are ready to take over the management of the Karipur International airport (Calicut) also if the Centre has any similar plans in future." The feasibility study of a new airport proposed to be built at Erumeli near Sabarimala Temple was going on, the chief minister said and requested the Centre's support for the project as well. Accusing the Congress-led UDF of delaying the Kannur airport project when it was in power, Vijayan said the alliance, which ruled the state between 2001 and 2006, had done nothing to make the long-pending dream a reality. "The project got a fresh lease of life after the VS Achuthanandan government came to power in 2006," he said. Vijayan alleged that the Ommen Chandy government had tried to create an impression that work on the airport was completed and carried out its inauguration before the LDF came to power in 2016. "An Indian Air Force aircraft, which can land anywhere, was brought here and people were invited saying that the airport was being inaugurated," Vijayan said, adding the same airport has now been opened in its full-fledged form, two-and-a-half years after his government came to power. BJP president Amit Shah had arrived at Kannur in a chartered flight on October 27 before the airport was formally inaugurated. With the commissioning of the Kannur airport, Kerala has become the first in the country to have four international airports, with Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode being the other three.

Kerala CM appeals to Centre not to lease out Trivandrum airport under PPP mode

Makkal Needhi Maiam president and actor Kamal Haasan Tuesday appealed to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to "rise above politics" and extend support to the people affected by Cyclone Gaja in Tamil Nadu.

Haasan wrote to the chief minister, saying Cyclone Gaja has caused "widespread damage and destruction to life and property" in the Cauvery delta and coastal districts of Tamil Nadu.

He said his party, Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), has urged the Kerala government and its people to come forward and assist in a way they deem fit to help Tamil Nadu "stand up on its feet again."

"Damage to crops, standing trees and boats is so extensive that the very source of life of our farmers and fishermen has been uprooted," the actor said in a letter to chief minister an veteran communist leader Vijayan.

"We urge you to rise above politics and other affiliations to demonstrate a true spirit of human kindness. Being humane is the fulcrum of humanity," the MNM chief said.

He said that "human benevolence shines brighter" during such times, adding that the damage caused by the cyclone will take years to overcome.

"However, we can begin now and start the process to rehabilitate and restore a sense of normalcy to our fellow brethren," Haasan, known to share a good rapport with Vijayan, said in the letter.

Cyclone Gaja crossed the Tamil Nadu coast between Nagapattinam and Vedaranyam on November 16, and left a trail of destruction, besides claiming 63 lives.&nbsp;

Makkal Needhi Maiam president and actor Kamal Haasan Tuesday appealed to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to "rise above politics" and extend support to the people affected by Cyclone Gaja in Tamil Nadu.

Makkal Needhi Maiam president and actor Kamal Haasan Tuesday appealed to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to "rise above politics" and extend support to the people affected by Cyclone Gaja in Tamil Nadu. Haasan wrote to the chief minister, saying Cyclone Gaja has caused "widespread damage and destruction to life and property" in the Cauvery delta and coastal districts of Tamil Nadu. He said his party, Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), has urged the Kerala government and its people to come forward and assist in a way they deem fit to help Tamil Nadu "stand up on its feet again." "Damage to crops, standing trees and boats is so extensive that the very source of life of our farmers and fishermen has been uprooted," the actor said in a letter to chief minister an veteran communist leader Vijayan. "We urge you to rise above politics and other affiliations to demonstrate a true spirit of human kindness. Being humane is the fulcrum of humanity," the MNM chief said. He said that "human benevolence shines brighter" during such times, adding that the damage caused by the cyclone will take years to overcome. "However, we can begin now and start the process to rehabilitate and restore a sense of normalcy to our fellow brethren," Haasan, known to share a good rapport with Vijayan, said in the letter. Cyclone Gaja crossed the Tamil Nadu coast between Nagapattinam and Vedaranyam on November 16, and left a trail of destruction, besides claiming 63 lives.

'Rise above politics': Kamal Hassan to Kerala CM on Cyclone Gaja aftermath

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday said that he has respect for the feelings of the devotees but is bound to implement Supreme Court verdict on Sabarimala &nbsp;Temple issue.

''Supreme Court clearly says that the September 28 verdict stands. It means that the entry of women should be allowed. Government t cannot take any stand against this verdict,'' the Kerala CM said.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday refused to give an urgent hearing to a petition seeking a stay on the top court`s order allowing women of all ages to enter the Sabarimala Temple in Kerala.

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Supreme Court clearly says that the September 28 verdict stands. It means that the entry of women should be allowed. Govt cannot take any stand against this verdict. We respect the feelings of the devotees. We are bound to implement court verdict: Kerala CM on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ud5pfGcviL">pic.twitter.com/Ud5pfGcviL</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1062985460484595712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi refused to take up the plea on an urgent basis and stated that the matter would be heard on January 22.&nbsp;

The apex court on Tuesday had agreed to hear review petitions against its September 28 verdict that lifted the age-old ban on entry of women in menstruating ages into the holy shrine of Lord Ayappa.&nbsp;

The bench comprising CJI Ranjan Gogoi, Justice RF Nariman, Justice AM Khanwilkar, Justice DY Chandrachud, and Justice Indu Malhotra is scheduled to hear 49 petitions on January 22.

The apex court`s order allowing all women entry into the shrine witnessed a string of protests last month.

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday said that he has respect for the feelings of the devotees but is bound to implement Supreme Court verdict on Sabarimala Temple issue.

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday said that he has respect for the feelings of the devotees but is bound to implement Supreme Court verdict on Sabarimala Temple issue. ''Supreme Court clearly says that the September 28 verdict stands. It means that the entry of women should be allowed. Government t cannot take any stand against this verdict,'' the Kerala CM said. The Supreme Court on Wednesday refused to give an urgent hearing to a petition seeking a stay on the top court`s order allowing women of all ages to enter the Sabarimala Temple in Kerala. Supreme Court clearly says that the September 28 verdict stands. It means that the entry of women should be allowed. Govt cannot take any stand against this verdict. We respect the feelings of the devotees. We are bound to implement court verdict: Kerala CM on #SabarimalaTemple pic.twitter.com/Ud5pfGcviL — ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2018 × Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi refused to take up the plea on an urgent basis and stated that the matter would be heard on January 22. The apex court on Tuesday had agreed to hear review petitions against its September 28 verdict that lifted the age-old ban on entry of women in menstruating ages into the holy shrine of Lord Ayappa. The bench comprising CJI Ranjan Gogoi, Justice RF Nariman, Justice AM Khanwilkar, Justice DY Chandrachud, and Justice Indu Malhotra is scheduled to hear 49 petitions on January 22. The apex court`s order allowing all women entry into the shrine witnessed a string of protests last month.

'We are bound to implement Supreme Court verdict': Kerala CM on Sabarimala 

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, on Tuesday, said that his government will take a final call on the Sabarimala case after consulting with legal experts, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

The Chief Minister told media that the Supreme Court on today noted that its verdict, allowing women of all ages to enter the Sabarimala temple, stands and that the review petitions will be heard on January 22.&nbsp;

He said that the Kerala government will decide further course of action on the case after the 'Makaravilakku' pilgrim season ends on January 21.&nbsp;

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SC has clearly said that its verdict allowing entry of women between age groups 10-50 yrs to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a> stands. Review petitions will be heard on Jan 22, after the 'Makaravilakku' season ends on Jan 21. Govt will discuss with legal experts &amp; move forward: Kerala CM <a href="https://t.co/ruF3HOsyZE">pic.twitter.com/ruF3HOsyZE</a>
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"We are waiting for details of the apex court's decision. The Chief Minister had earlier declared that whatever decision the apex court takes, it will be implemented.

The government will evaluate the situation and take an appropriate decision", he said

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-case-sc-defers-hear-review-petitions-on-january-22-refuses-to-stay-earlier-verdict-177077">Supreme Court today refused to stay its verdict</a> allowing entry of women of all age groups into the Sabarimala temple, but agreed to hear in open court on January 22, a batch of review petitions in the matter.

The review petitions against the September 28 verdict were taken up 'in-chamber' by a bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices R F Nariman, A M Khanwilkar, D Y Chandrachud and Indu Malhotra, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

"All the review petitions along with all pending applications will be heard in Open Court on 22nd January, 2019 before the appropriate Bench. 
We make it clear that there is no stay of the judgement and order of this Court dated 28th September, 2018 passed in Writ Petition (Civil) No.373 of 2006 (Indian Young Lawyers Association &amp; Ors. Vs.The State of Kerala &amp; Ors)," the order said.

There are around 50 petitions seeking review of the judgement.

On September 28, the Supreme Court of India pronounced its verdict allowing the entry of women of all ages into the Sabarimala Temple.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, on Tuesday, said that his government will take a final call on the Sabarimala case after consulting with legal experts, news agency ANI reported.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, on Tuesday, said that his government will take a final call on the Sabarimala case after consulting with legal experts, news agency ANI reported. The Chief Minister told media that the Supreme Court on today noted that its verdict, allowing women of all ages to enter the Sabarimala temple, stands and that the review petitions will be heard on January 22. He said that the Kerala government will decide further course of action on the case after the 'Makaravilakku' pilgrim season ends on January 21. SC has clearly said that its verdict allowing entry of women between age groups 10-50 yrs to #SabarimalaTemple stands. Review petitions will be heard on Jan 22, after the 'Makaravilakku' season ends on Jan 21. Govt will discuss with legal experts & move forward: Kerala CM pic.twitter.com/ruF3HOsyZE — ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2018 × "We are waiting for details of the apex court's decision. The Chief Minister had earlier declared that whatever decision the apex court takes, it will be implemented. The government will evaluate the situation and take an appropriate decision", he said The Supreme Court today refused to stay its verdict allowing entry of women of all age groups into the Sabarimala temple, but agreed to hear in open court on January 22, a batch of review petitions in the matter. The review petitions against the September 28 verdict were taken up 'in-chamber' by a bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices R F Nariman, A M Khanwilkar, D Y Chandrachud and Indu Malhotra, news agency PTI reported. "All the review petitions along with all pending applications will be heard in Open Court on 22nd January, 2019 before the appropriate Bench. We make it clear that there is no stay of the judgement and order of this Court dated 28th September, 2018 passed in Writ Petition (Civil) No.373 of 2006 (Indian Young Lawyers Association & Ors. Vs.The State of Kerala & Ors)," the order said. There are around 50 petitions seeking review of the judgement. On September 28, the Supreme Court of India pronounced its verdict allowing the entry of women of all ages into the Sabarimala Temple.

Will take final call after consulting legal experts: Kerala CM Vijayan on Sabarimala

Hours after BJP Chief Amit Shah threatened to pull down the Pinarayi Vijayan government if the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-backs-sabarimala-devotees-slams-kerala-government-on-arrest-of-protesters-173811">Sabarimala temple</a> traditions are not adhered to, Vijayan said Shah`s remarks were an attack on the apex court and the Constitution.

"Amit Shah's statement in Kannur is against the constitution and law of the land. It's a clear intention of their agenda of not to guarantee the fundamental rights. This shows the agenda of the RSS and the Sangh Parivar,'' Vijayan said Vijayan in a Facebook post.

His statement that the apex court should pronounce verdicts that are implementable is nothing but a challenge to the various rights that the Constitution guarantees," said Vijayan.&nbsp;

Shah attacked Vijayan at the latter`s hometown Kannur, while inaugurating the new district office of the BJP. Amit&nbsp;

Shah also extended full support to the protest by Ayyappa devotees against the CPI(M)-led LDF government's decision to implement the Supreme court order on the entry of women of all ages into Sabarimala temple, saying the Left government was trying to "suppress" the agitation by force.

"The statement that women should not be allowed entry clearly shows that they (BJP) stand for the male hegemony. I wish to state that this government was elected by the people and not with the help or support of the BJP. People who support democracy should come out against this statement," said Vijayan.

Hours after BJP Chief Amit Shah threatened to pull down the Pinarayi Vijayan government if the Sabarimala temple traditions are not adhered to, Vijayan said Shah`s remarks were an attack on the apex court and the Constitution.

Hours after BJP Chief Amit Shah threatened to pull down the Pinarayi Vijayan government if the Sabarimala temple traditions are not adhered to, Vijayan said Shah`s remarks were an attack on the apex court and the Constitution. "Amit Shah's statement in Kannur is against the constitution and law of the land. It's a clear intention of their agenda of not to guarantee the fundamental rights. This shows the agenda of the RSS and the Sangh Parivar,'' Vijayan said Vijayan in a Facebook post. His statement that the apex court should pronounce verdicts that are implementable is nothing but a challenge to the various rights that the Constitution guarantees," said Vijayan. Shah attacked Vijayan at the latter`s hometown Kannur, while inaugurating the new district office of the BJP. Amit Shah also extended full support to the protest by Ayyappa devotees against the CPI(M)-led LDF government's decision to implement the Supreme court order on the entry of women of all ages into Sabarimala temple, saying the Left government was trying to "suppress" the agitation by force. "The statement that women should not be allowed entry clearly shows that they (BJP) stand for the male hegemony. I wish to state that this government was elected by the people and not with the help or support of the BJP. People who support democracy should come out against this statement," said Vijayan.

Amit Shah's statement in Kannur against the constitution: Kerala CM Vijayan 

The United Nations Resident Coordinator in India, Yuri Afanasiev, on Friday presented the Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) report to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The report assessed the damage and loss incurred due to the devastating floods in the state in August.

This is the first time the UN has prepared such report in India.&nbsp;

According to the report, the state would need about Rs 31,000 crore for recovery and reconstruction. The highest amount would be needed for the reconstruction of roads and transportation (Rs 10,046 crore), followed by housing (Rs 5443 crore), agriculture, fisheries and livestock (Rs 4498 crore), employment and livelihood (Rs 3896 crore), other infrastructure (Rs 2446 crore), irrigation (Rs 1483 crore) and water and sanitation (Rs 1331 crore).

The report highlights the international examples and models for building back better Kerala in 16 sectors.&nbsp;

It suggests that Kerala could become the first green state in the country by building on the four pillars of integrated water resources management, eco-sensitive and risk-informed approaches to land use and planning, inclusive and people-centred approaches, and by adopting knowledge, innovation and technology.

Chief Minister Vijayan thanked the UN for providing support to the state for flood response and developing PDNA.&nbsp;

He requested for the UN technical support in developing sectoral recovery plans, bringing international models and new technologies to Kerala, and in strengthening the recovery committees with experts.&nbsp;

The chief minister also sought UN support for mobilising resources for the state within and outside the country.

Echoing the views of the Chief Minister, Dr Thomas Issac, Finance Minister, thanked the UN for its assistance in mobilising grants for reconstruction.&nbsp;

"We thank the UN for mobilizing grants. This would reduce the amount of borrowing," Issac said.

The PDNA is the global methodology developed by the UN, the World Bank and the European Union to assess damage and loss in the wake of disaster and to recommend the recovery needs and strategies.&nbsp;

In all, 76 experts from 10 UN agencies and European Union across 13 sectors collaborated to develop the report in 20 days.&nbsp;

The UN agencies included, UNDP, UNICEF, UNESCO, UN Women, UNFPA, UNEP, WHO, WFP, ILO and FAO and adopted reports of 3 sectors from World Bank and ADB.&nbsp;

Besides, two experts on integrated water resources management from Netherlands also provided support. The report was prepared after visiting 120 villages in 10 districts and interacting with experts, affected people, elected representatives, officials and representatives of civil society organisations.

"On behalf of the United Nations in India, I am very pleased that we are able to support the exemplary recovery efforts of the Government of Kerala. The resilience and initiative of the people of Kerala have been remarkable throughout and in the aftermath of this disaster, with valuable lessons in innovation for the world,'' said Afanasiev.

The UN-supported Post Disaster Needs Assessment builds on this and the best international models for building back better. I strongly believe that Kerala is poised to emerge stronger in a way that sets the standard for future disaster response needs in the region and beyond, and become India`s first green state. The UN team continues to support Kerala through our technical expertise and global linkages across a variety of sectors," he continued.

The PDNA was led by the Additional Chief Secretary, PH Kurian, Department of Revenue and Disaster Management and nodal officer, S Venkatespathy, the Director of Fisheries.&nbsp;

The United Nations Resident Coordinator in India, Yuri Afanasiev, on Friday presented the Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) report to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

The United Nations Resident Coordinator in India, Yuri Afanasiev, on Friday presented the Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) report to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The report assessed the damage and loss incurred due to the devastating floods in the state in August. This is the first time the UN has prepared such report in India. According to the report, the state would need about Rs 31,000 crore for recovery and reconstruction. The highest amount would be needed for the reconstruction of roads and transportation (Rs 10,046 crore), followed by housing (Rs 5443 crore), agriculture, fisheries and livestock (Rs 4498 crore), employment and livelihood (Rs 3896 crore), other infrastructure (Rs 2446 crore), irrigation (Rs 1483 crore) and water and sanitation (Rs 1331 crore). The report highlights the international examples and models for building back better Kerala in 16 sectors. It suggests that Kerala could become the first green state in the country by building on the four pillars of integrated water resources management, eco-sensitive and risk-informed approaches to land use and planning, inclusive and people-centred approaches, and by adopting knowledge, innovation and technology. Chief Minister Vijayan thanked the UN for providing support to the state for flood response and developing PDNA. He requested for the UN technical support in developing sectoral recovery plans, bringing international models and new technologies to Kerala, and in strengthening the recovery committees with experts. The chief minister also sought UN support for mobilising resources for the state within and outside the country. Echoing the views of the Chief Minister, Dr Thomas Issac, Finance Minister, thanked the UN for its assistance in mobilising grants for reconstruction. "We thank the UN for mobilizing grants. This would reduce the amount of borrowing," Issac said. The PDNA is the global methodology developed by the UN, the World Bank and the European Union to assess damage and loss in the wake of disaster and to recommend the recovery needs and strategies. In all, 76 experts from 10 UN agencies and European Union across 13 sectors collaborated to develop the report in 20 days. The UN agencies included, UNDP, UNICEF, UNESCO, UN Women, UNFPA, UNEP, WHO, WFP, ILO and FAO and adopted reports of 3 sectors from World Bank and ADB. Besides, two experts on integrated water resources management from Netherlands also provided support. The report was prepared after visiting 120 villages in 10 districts and interacting with experts, affected people, elected representatives, officials and representatives of civil society organisations. "On behalf of the United Nations in India, I am very pleased that we are able to support the exemplary recovery efforts of the Government of Kerala. The resilience and initiative of the people of Kerala have been remarkable throughout and in the aftermath of this disaster, with valuable lessons in innovation for the world,'' said Afanasiev. The UN-supported Post Disaster Needs Assessment builds on this and the best international models for building back better. I strongly believe that Kerala is poised to emerge stronger in a way that sets the standard for future disaster response needs in the region and beyond, and become India`s first green state. The UN team continues to support Kerala through our technical expertise and global linkages across a variety of sectors," he continued. The PDNA was led by the Additional Chief Secretary, PH Kurian, Department of Revenue and Disaster Management and nodal officer, S Venkatespathy, the Director of Fisheries.

UN presents rebuilding strategy to Kerala CM Vijayan

An advisory committee headed by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has been set up for implementation of various projects for rebuilding the flood-ravaged state.

Announcing this at a press conference here, Vijayan said the committee, comprising Union Tourism Minister Alphons Kannamthanam, would give advice for implementing the projects.

Leader of Opposition in Kerala Assembly Ramesh Chennithala, T K A Nair, who served as advisor to former prime minister, and former state chief secretary K M Chandrasekhar are among the other members of the committee, he said.

The first meeting of the committee would be held on October 22, the chief minister said.

Besides this, a high-powered committee would monitor the implementation of the projects approved by the state cabinet, he said.

The chief minister also launched a portal for crowd funding as part of the government's efforts to mobilise funds for rebuilding and rehabilitating the people affected by the flood in the state.

Vijayan is scheduled to leave for some of the Gulf countries on Wednesday as part of the efforts to mobilise funds from Kerala expatriates there.

Seventeen of the 20 state ministers have also planned to visit different countries in the Gulf and Europe to mobilise funds.

However, the Centre has approved the foreign visit of the chief minister alone so far.

Answering a question in this regard, Vijayan said the state government had expected that the Centre would give sanction for the ministers also.

The state had witnessed the fury of the southwest monsoon in August which claimed 493 lives and left a trail of destruction in several districts, displacing lakhs of people.

The LDF government had last month decided to raise Rs 15,900 crore as loan from the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and other funding agencies to rebuild the prime sectors of the state.

An advisory committee headed by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has been set up for implementation of various projects for rebuilding the flood-ravaged state.

An advisory committee headed by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has been set up for implementation of various projects for rebuilding the flood-ravaged state. Announcing this at a press conference here, Vijayan said the committee, comprising Union Tourism Minister Alphons Kannamthanam, would give advice for implementing the projects. Leader of Opposition in Kerala Assembly Ramesh Chennithala, T K A Nair, who served as advisor to former prime minister, and former state chief secretary K M Chandrasekhar are among the other members of the committee, he said. The first meeting of the committee would be held on October 22, the chief minister said. Besides this, a high-powered committee would monitor the implementation of the projects approved by the state cabinet, he said. The chief minister also launched a portal for crowd funding as part of the government's efforts to mobilise funds for rebuilding and rehabilitating the people affected by the flood in the state. Vijayan is scheduled to leave for some of the Gulf countries on Wednesday as part of the efforts to mobilise funds from Kerala expatriates there. Seventeen of the 20 state ministers have also planned to visit different countries in the Gulf and Europe to mobilise funds. However, the Centre has approved the foreign visit of the chief minister alone so far. Answering a question in this regard, Vijayan said the state government had expected that the Centre would give sanction for the ministers also. The state had witnessed the fury of the southwest monsoon in August which claimed 493 lives and left a trail of destruction in several districts, displacing lakhs of people. The LDF government had last month decided to raise Rs 15,900 crore as loan from the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and other funding agencies to rebuild the prime sectors of the state.

Advisory panel set up for rebuilding flood-hit Kerala

Women police personnel will be posted at Sabarimala this month to facilitate pilgrimage of women devotees in view of the Supreme Court order permitting women of all age groups to enter the Lord Ayyappa shrine, Kerala police chief Loknath Behera said Friday.

The DGP said everyone in the force should have to perform their duties irrespective of their religion and politics.

"They (women) will be posted there (at Sabarimala). We are a law enforcement agency. No gender, no religion. .. Nothing. All will have to perform their duties," Behera told reporters here.

His statement comes against the backdrop of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's recent statement that the government would implement the verdict in the coming pilgrimage season itself.

A high-level meeting of the Travancore Devaswom Board, which manages the shrine, has also decided to make necessary arrangements for women pilgrims visiting the temple when it opens for the annual pilgrimage season on October 16.

The Nair Service Society (NSS), Pandalam Royal family and family of the temple's chief priest have said they would file revision petitions in the apex court against its order.

The Sabarimala temple had restricted the entry of women belonging to the age group of 10-50 as part of its age-old tradition.

On October 28, a five-judge constitution bench, headed by the then Chief Justice Dipak Misra, lifted the ban on entry of women of menstrual age into the shrine.&nbsp;

Women police personnel will be posted at Sabarimala this month to facilitate pilgrimage of women devotees in view of the Supreme Court order permitting women of all age groups to enter the Lord Ayyappa shrine, Kerala police chief Loknath Behera said Friday.

Women police personnel will be posted at Sabarimala this month to facilitate pilgrimage of women devotees in view of the Supreme Court order permitting women of all age groups to enter the Lord Ayyappa shrine, Kerala police chief Loknath Behera said Friday. The DGP said everyone in the force should have to perform their duties irrespective of their religion and politics. "They (women) will be posted there (at Sabarimala). We are a law enforcement agency. No gender, no religion. .. Nothing. All will have to perform their duties," Behera told reporters here. His statement comes against the backdrop of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's recent statement that the government would implement the verdict in the coming pilgrimage season itself. A high-level meeting of the Travancore Devaswom Board, which manages the shrine, has also decided to make necessary arrangements for women pilgrims visiting the temple when it opens for the annual pilgrimage season on October 16. The Nair Service Society (NSS), Pandalam Royal family and family of the temple's chief priest have said they would file revision petitions in the apex court against its order. The Sabarimala temple had restricted the entry of women belonging to the age group of 10-50 as part of its age-old tradition. On October 28, a five-judge constitution bench, headed by the then Chief Justice Dipak Misra, lifted the ban on entry of women of menstrual age into the shrine.

Women cops to be posted at Sabarimala: DGP

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Wednesday cautioned the state authorities against a warning sounded by the Indian Meteorological Department. CM Vijayan stated that the IMD has "issued a warning about a low-pressure area in the Arabian sea close to Sri Lankan coast," which may develop into a cyclonic storm and hit the state.&nbsp;

"The predicted trajectory will be along the coast of Lakshadweep," news agency ANI quoted CM Vijayan who added that a red alert has been sounded in three districts for October 7.

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IMD has issued a warning about a low-pressure area in the Arabian sea close to Sri Lankan coast. This is likely to develop into a cyclonic storm and a warning has been issued on the same. The predicted trajectory will be along the coast of Lakshadweep: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan <a href="https://t.co/DegbBci0SY">pic.twitter.com/DegbBci0SY</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1047472670210777088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"Fishermen have been advised to reach to the safer coast by October 5. A warning has been issued, a red alert has been declared in 3 districts for October 7. Disaster Management Authority has met to assess the situation. We've sought support from central agencies and five companies of NDRF," the chief minister added. &nbsp;

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District administration has been directed to take necessary action to handle the crisis. Tourists have been advised not to travel to hilly regions, especially to Munnar to see the Neelakurinji: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan <a href="https://t.co/UeJqHXGAd1">pic.twitter.com/UeJqHXGAd1</a>
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He also shared that the district administration has been directed to take necessary action to handle the crisis. "Tourists have been advised not to travel to hilly regions, especially to Munnar to see the Neelakurinji," CM Vijayan noted.

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Fishermen have been advised to reach safer coast by 5 Oct. Warning has been issued. Red alert has been declared in 3 districts for 7 Oct. Disaster Mgmt Authority has met to assess the situation. We've sought support from central agencies&amp;asked for 5 companies of NDRF: Kerala CM <a href="https://t.co/BUgvI85rtv">pic.twitter.com/BUgvI85rtv</a>
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Unabated rainfall in Kerala during this monsoon season wreaked havoc, prompting the state authorities to open the shutters of as many as 22 dangerously full dams and reservoirs.

Mammoth flooding, landslides destroyed many parts of the state rendering lakhs of people homeless and displaced who took shelter in over 5,000 relief camps set-up across Kerala.&nbsp;

The destructive deluge claimed nearly 500 lives with an estimated loss to the state worth over Rs 21,000 crore.&nbsp;

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Wednesday cautioned the state authorities against a warning sounded by the Indian Meteorological Department. CM Vijayan stated that the IMD has "issued a warning about a low-pressure area in the Arabian sea close to Sri Lankan coast," which may develop into a cyclonic storm and hit the state.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Wednesday cautioned the state authorities against a warning sounded by the Indian Meteorological Department. CM Vijayan stated that the IMD has "issued a warning about a low-pressure area in the Arabian sea close to Sri Lankan coast," which may develop into a cyclonic storm and hit the state. "The predicted trajectory will be along the coast of Lakshadweep," news agency ANI quoted CM Vijayan who added that a red alert has been sounded in three districts for October 7. IMD has issued a warning about a low-pressure area in the Arabian sea close to Sri Lankan coast. This is likely to develop into a cyclonic storm and a warning has been issued on the same. The predicted trajectory will be along the coast of Lakshadweep: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan pic.twitter.com/DegbBci0SY — ANI (@ANI) October 3, 2018 × "Fishermen have been advised to reach to the safer coast by October 5. A warning has been issued, a red alert has been declared in 3 districts for October 7. Disaster Management Authority has met to assess the situation. We've sought support from central agencies and five companies of NDRF," the chief minister added. District administration has been directed to take necessary action to handle the crisis. Tourists have been advised not to travel to hilly regions, especially to Munnar to see the Neelakurinji: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan pic.twitter.com/UeJqHXGAd1 — ANI (@ANI) October 3, 2018 × He also shared that the district administration has been directed to take necessary action to handle the crisis. "Tourists have been advised not to travel to hilly regions, especially to Munnar to see the Neelakurinji," CM Vijayan noted. Fishermen have been advised to reach safer coast by 5 Oct. Warning has been issued. Red alert has been declared in 3 districts for 7 Oct. Disaster Mgmt Authority has met to assess the situation. We've sought support from central agencies&asked for 5 companies of NDRF: Kerala CM pic.twitter.com/BUgvI85rtv — ANI (@ANI) October 3, 2018 × Unabated rainfall in Kerala during this monsoon season wreaked havoc, prompting the state authorities to open the shutters of as many as 22 dangerously full dams and reservoirs. Mammoth flooding, landslides destroyed many parts of the state rendering lakhs of people homeless and displaced who took shelter in over 5,000 relief camps set-up across Kerala. The destructive deluge claimed nearly 500 lives with an estimated loss to the state worth over Rs 21,000 crore.

Cyclone in the offing? Kerala CM issues warning, red alert sounded in 3 districts 

Amidst the news of the&nbsp;Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala, more than 18 dead bats were discovered on Wednesday in the premises of a government school in Himachal Pradesh's Nahan, triggering a panic among locals.

Officers of the Health Department, Animal Husbandry Department and Forest Department arrived at the Burma Papadi School, following a directive from the Deputy Commissioner, and took samples from the dead bats for further investigation.

However, the officials denied rumours of fears of the virus as of now.

The district's Chief Medical Officer, Dr Sanjay Sharma, although the bats are present in the area every year, this year their numbers are significantly higher.

"The principal of the school and the students said that bats come here every year, and eventually perish, however, this year, their numbers are far greater than in previous years," Sharma said.

"We have informed the teachers, students of the school about the virus, its symptoms, preventive measures. We told them to avoid physical contact in case of an outbreak, as this is a communicative disease," he added.

Suparna Bharadwaj, the principal of the school, said, "In this situation, there is a panic in the people after this episode, as the way the bats are dying, Napa Virus's fears cannot be sidelined. The students were informed of the disease, it's preventive measures, so we will exercise all precautions in case of an outbreak and inform as many people as possible."

The death toll in the deadly Nipah virus outbreak has so far, risen up to 10, Kerala health minister KK Shailaga confirmed.

Earlier, Kerala Governor P Sathasivam appealed to the people of the state to not to panic over the rumours being circulated about the spread of the virus and requested everyone to follow the advisories issued by the State Health Department.

Also, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said the state government is closely monitoring the outbreak and taking steps to prevent its further spread.

Taking cognizance of the issue, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare JP Nadda also directed to constitute a team of six doctors to probe the outbreak of the virus.&nbsp;

The death toll in the deadly Nipah virus outbreak has so far risen up to 10, Kerala health minister KK Shailaga confirmed

Amidst the news of the Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala, more than 18 dead bats were discovered on Wednesday in the premises of a government school in Himachal Pradesh's Nahan, triggering a panic among locals. Officers of the Health Department, Animal Husbandry Department and Forest Department arrived at the Burma Papadi School, following a directive from the Deputy Commissioner, and took samples from the dead bats for further investigation. However, the officials denied rumours of fears of the virus as of now. The district's Chief Medical Officer, Dr Sanjay Sharma, although the bats are present in the area every year, this year their numbers are significantly higher. "The principal of the school and the students said that bats come here every year, and eventually perish, however, this year, their numbers are far greater than in previous years," Sharma said. "We have informed the teachers, students of the school about the virus, its symptoms, preventive measures. We told them to avoid physical contact in case of an outbreak, as this is a communicative disease," he added. Suparna Bharadwaj, the principal of the school, said, "In this situation, there is a panic in the people after this episode, as the way the bats are dying, Napa Virus's fears cannot be sidelined. The students were informed of the disease, it's preventive measures, so we will exercise all precautions in case of an outbreak and inform as many people as possible." The death toll in the deadly Nipah virus outbreak has so far, risen up to 10, Kerala health minister KK Shailaga confirmed. Earlier, Kerala Governor P Sathasivam appealed to the people of the state to not to panic over the rumours being circulated about the spread of the virus and requested everyone to follow the advisories issued by the State Health Department. Also, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said the state government is closely monitoring the outbreak and taking steps to prevent its further spread. Taking cognizance of the issue, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare JP Nadda also directed to constitute a team of six doctors to probe the outbreak of the virus.

Nipah virus scare in Himachal after 18 dead bats found in Nahan

Extending a helping hand to the family of nurse Lini Puthussery, who died after contracting Nipah from her patients, the Kerala government today decided to give a government job to her husband and Rs 10 lakh each to two of their children.

A decision in this regard was taken at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan here.

Sajeesh, Lini's husband, will be offered a government job based on his qualifications.

Their two children, aged five and two, will be given Rs 10 lakh each from the chief minister's relief fund, a government press release said.

Of the amounts sanctioned for Lini's children, Rs 5 lakh each will be deposited in their bank accounts. The remaining Rs 5 lakh each will be deposited in such a manner that the interest amounts can be utilised by the guardian for the needs of the children, the release added.

The government also decided to give Rs 5 lakh each to the next of kin of the nine others who have lost their lives to Nipah.

Lini, who was working in the Perambra Taluk hospital, had contracted the deadly virus from her patients who had sought treatment at the hospital in the initial days.

Sajeesh, who was working in Bahrain, had rushed to Perambra on hearing about her illness, two days before her death.

Lini, who was aware of the seriousness of her illness, had scribbled an emotional last letter to Sajeesh saying, "I am almost on the way. I do not think I can meet you. You should look after our children well," which had gone viral in the social media.

As Sajeesh struggles to come to terms with the loss, he gathered himself to thank the government for this gesture.

Three patients of a family from Soopykada village in Permabra had been initially admitted at the Perambra taluk hospital for treatment, where Lini was a nurse.

The government also decided to provide Rs 5 lakh each to the next of kin who died of Nipah virus.

The virus has so far claimed 10 lives in Kozhikode and Malappuram districts.

Two more persons who died of high fever are suspected to have contracted the virus.

Sajeesh, Lini's husband, will be offered a government job based on his qualifications. Their two children, aged five and two, will be given Rs 10 lakh each from the chief minister's relief fund, a government press release said

Extending a helping hand to the family of nurse Lini Puthussery, who died after contracting Nipah from her patients, the Kerala government today decided to give a government job to her husband and Rs 10 lakh each to two of their children. A decision in this regard was taken at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan here. Sajeesh, Lini's husband, will be offered a government job based on his qualifications. Their two children, aged five and two, will be given Rs 10 lakh each from the chief minister's relief fund, a government press release said. Of the amounts sanctioned for Lini's children, Rs 5 lakh each will be deposited in their bank accounts. The remaining Rs 5 lakh each will be deposited in such a manner that the interest amounts can be utilised by the guardian for the needs of the children, the release added. The government also decided to give Rs 5 lakh each to the next of kin of the nine others who have lost their lives to Nipah. Lini, who was working in the Perambra Taluk hospital, had contracted the deadly virus from her patients who had sought treatment at the hospital in the initial days. Sajeesh, who was working in Bahrain, had rushed to Perambra on hearing about her illness, two days before her death. Lini, who was aware of the seriousness of her illness, had scribbled an emotional last letter to Sajeesh saying, "I am almost on the way. I do not think I can meet you. You should look after our children well," which had gone viral in the social media. As Sajeesh struggles to come to terms with the loss, he gathered himself to thank the government for this gesture. Three patients of a family from Soopykada village in Permabra had been initially admitted at the Perambra taluk hospital for treatment, where Lini was a nurse. The government also decided to provide Rs 5 lakh each to the next of kin who died of Nipah virus. The virus has so far claimed 10 lives in Kozhikode and Malappuram districts. Two more persons who died of high fever are suspected to have contracted the virus.

Kerala offers government job to husband of nurse who died from Nipah virus

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday said the government would take stern action against the students who insulted the retiring woman principal of a college in Kasargod district last month. Vijayan was replaying to a submission by opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala who brought to the notice of the assembly the incident related to bursting of crackers and display of posters with writings ‘condolence’ in the campus as a farewell to the retiring College Principal P V Pushpaja.

Referring to the allegation of Chennithala that students behind the incident belonged to Students Federation of India, (SFI), the student wing of CPI(M), Vijayan said SFI never agree or accept this kind of actions. The students should consider teachers as their mothers and that was our culture, Vijayan said.

Insulting a teacher cannot be agreed, he said, adding, all would condemn such acts and nobody would support it. Education Minister C Raveendranath said that two students have been suspended and further steps would be taken after getting the report of the Director of College Education.

The incident came to the media limelight after a video of students bursting crackers and a condolence message put at the auditorium of the College campus went viral on the social media. The incident triggered widespread condemnation from different quarters.

Referring to the allegation of Chennithala that students behind the incident belonged to Students Federation of India, (SFI), the student wing of CPI(M), Vijayan said SFI never agree or accept this kind of actions.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday said the government would take stern action against the students who insulted the retiring woman principal of a college in Kasargod district last month. Vijayan was replaying to a submission by opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala who brought to the notice of the assembly the incident related to bursting of crackers and display of posters with writings ‘condolence’ in the campus as a farewell to the retiring College Principal P V Pushpaja. Referring to the allegation of Chennithala that students behind the incident belonged to Students Federation of India, (SFI), the student wing of CPI(M), Vijayan said SFI never agree or accept this kind of actions. The students should consider teachers as their mothers and that was our culture, Vijayan said. Insulting a teacher cannot be agreed, he said, adding, all would condemn such acts and nobody would support it. Education Minister C Raveendranath said that two students have been suspended and further steps would be taken after getting the report of the Director of College Education. The incident came to the media limelight after a video of students bursting crackers and a condolence message put at the auditorium of the College campus went viral on the social media. The incident triggered widespread condemnation from different quarters.

Students' act of insulting woman principal deplorable: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan today said the Kerala government will initiate further steps regarding implementation of the second phase extension of the Kochi Metro project once they get necessary clearance from the Centre.

The state had been asked to re-submit its Detailed Project Report (DPR) incorporating changes on the basis of the new Metro policy announced by the Centre, Vijayan said while replying to a submission by V P Sajeendran of the Congress.

The DPR, prepared in February this year, is under the state government&#39;s consideration, he said.

After the report is submitted to the Centre, and necessary permission is received, further steps with regard to the project will be taken, he said.

Administrative sanction for Rs 2,577.25 crore had been granted in may last year and a DPR had been submitted for the Centre&#39;s final clearance.

However, later the union government had come out with a new metro policy, he said.

Meanwhile, for the initial activities of the second phase of the project from Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium to Infopark, the state government had sanctioned Rs 189 crore and necessary administrative sanction for land acquisition had also been given, he said.

The district administration was also in the process of initiating steps for the environmental impact study.

For land acquisition, Rs 20 crore has been set apart as per September 20, 2017, government order, he said.

The district administration was also in the process of initiating steps for the environmental impact study

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan today said the Kerala government will initiate further steps regarding implementation of the second phase extension of the Kochi Metro project once they get necessary clearance from the Centre. The state had been asked to re-submit its Detailed Project Report (DPR) incorporating changes on the basis of the new Metro policy announced by the Centre, Vijayan said while replying to a submission by V P Sajeendran of the Congress. The DPR, prepared in February this year, is under the state government's consideration, he said. After the report is submitted to the Centre, and necessary permission is received, further steps with regard to the project will be taken, he said. Administrative sanction for Rs 2,577.25 crore had been granted in may last year and a DPR had been submitted for the Centre's final clearance. However, later the union government had come out with a new metro policy, he said. Meanwhile, for the initial activities of the second phase of the project from Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium to Infopark, the state government had sanctioned Rs 189 crore and necessary administrative sanction for land acquisition had also been given, he said. The district administration was also in the process of initiating steps for the environmental impact study. For land acquisition, Rs 20 crore has been set apart as per September 20, 2017, government order, he said.

Work on Kochi Metro phase II extension after Centre's nod: Kerala

A 27-year-old man in Kerala&#39;s Palakkad district was beaten to death by a mob after complaints of alleged stealing.

The mob also shot videos and clicked selfies of the brutal incident, which has&nbsp;gone viral on social media.&nbsp;

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The mob also shot videos and clicked selfies of the brutal incident. (WION)
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The victim, identified as Madhu,&nbsp;was allegedly beaten with sticks and was handed over to the police.

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According to reports, the man was an accused of theft in 2016 and was infamous for stealing rice and other food items from shops. (WION)
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The police took him to the hospital after his health deteriorated but&nbsp;the doctors&nbsp;declared him dead on arrival.&nbsp;

According to reports, the man was accused of theft in 2016 and was reportedly infamous for stealing rice and other food items from shops.

However, a report&nbsp;quoted the mother of the 27-year-old deceased saying that Madhu was not a thief, instead, he was of &quot;unsound mind&quot;.&nbsp;

The police have registered an FIR under section 174 CrPC against unknown people.

They have also launched an investigation into the matter. The police will also conduct the postmortem of the body.&nbsp;

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan also reacted to the incident saying &quot;This heinous act is a blot on Kerala&rsquo;s progressive society&quot;. He also added that two suspects&nbsp;were in police custody.&nbsp;

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Kerala Chief Minister also responded to the incident saying 'This heinous act is a blot on Kerala’s progressive society'. He also added that two suspects from the seven were in police custody

A 27-year-old man in Kerala's Palakkad district was beaten to death by a mob after complaints of alleged stealing. The mob also shot videos and clicked selfies of the brutal incident, which has gone viral on social media. The mob also shot videos and clicked selfies of the brutal incident. (WION) × The victim, identified as Madhu, was allegedly beaten with sticks and was handed over to the police. According to reports, the man was an accused of theft in 2016 and was infamous for stealing rice and other food items from shops. (WION) × The police took him to the hospital after his health deteriorated but the doctors declared him dead on arrival. According to reports, the man was accused of theft in 2016 and was reportedly infamous for stealing rice and other food items from shops. However, a report quoted the mother of the 27-year-old deceased saying that Madhu was not a thief, instead, he was of "unsound mind". The police have registered an FIR under section 174 CrPC against unknown people. They have also launched an investigation into the matter. The police will also conduct the postmortem of the body. Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan also reacted to the incident saying "This heinous act is a blot on Kerala’s progressive society". He also added that two suspects were in police custody. ×

Video: 27-year-old man beaten to death in Kerala, CM Vijayan calls it 'blot on progressive society'

Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan has invited people to &#39;create a new era&#39; even as he gears up to launch his political party on Wednesday in Madurai.&nbsp;

Haasan began his political journey from the house of former President APJ Abdul Kalam. Hours before launching his political party, he visited the residence of Kalam&nbsp;and interacted with his family members.

Haasan was warmly received by the family members of the former President.&nbsp;The actor slightly tweaked his schedule for the day, cancelling his visit to a school, after the local administration reportedly denied him permission to visit it.

The actor will take out a rally from the house of&nbsp;Kalam&nbsp;at Rameswaram, culminating in Madurai where he will address a rally to announce the party&rsquo;s name and launch its flag. According to sources close to the actor Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to attend the rally; Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan and Bihar CM Nitish Kumar too have been invited, however, they could send video messages as they could not reach Madurai.

People in Tamil Nadu are waiting for to know who are the other party key members and whether the actor will announce their names at the meeting in Madurai today. While some source said that the actor will announce the list of office bearers including party&rsquo;s district committees at the rally in Madurai, other reports suggested that the actor likely to follow the path of late chief minister J Jayalalithaa, who was the single power centre in the party she ran until her death and unlikely project anyone. &nbsp;

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Tamil Nadu: Kamal Haasan visits APJ Abdul Kalam&#39;s house in Rameswaram. <a href="https://t.co/fp10vi4atL">pic.twitter.com/fp10vi4atL</a>
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&ldquo;There are intellectuals, activists and anti-corruption groups guiding and advising him, but he is unlikely to project a second leader next to him in the initial stages,&rdquo; reports said quoting a source. The party will be in the line of &nbsp; Aam Aadmi Party and similar anti-corruption movements in Tamil Nadu. The party&#39;s name may not include words such as &lsquo;Dravida&rsquo; or &lsquo;Kazhagam&rsquo;. Some of the final designs selected for the flag are simple ones in two or three colours.&rdquo;

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Tamil Nadu: Kamal Haasan leaves after visiting APJ Abdul Kalam&#39;s house in Rameswaram. <a href="https://t.co/m8NxR8V8he">pic.twitter.com/m8NxR8V8he</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/966141648366440448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Hassan is expected to Ramanathapuram, his hometown, where he will address a gathering that is expected to be of 2,000 or more people

He will meet people at two more places on the way to Madurai, in Paramakudi and Manamadurai. Organisers expect a few hundred people in both places and he may also deliver speeches.

On the eve of the party launch, DMK working president M K Stalin ridiculed the actor&rsquo;s political venture. Taking a veiled dig once again at top actors Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan for their political ambitions, DMK Working President M K Stalin likened them to &#39;glamorous paper flowers&#39; which do not spread fragrance.

&quot;Owing to seasonal changes some flowers may suddenly bloom and later wither. Similarly, in Tamil Nadu&#39;s political arena too glamorous paper flowers may bloom,&quot; he said in an apparent reference to top actors Rajinikanth and Haasan&#39;s political entry.

The Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly, in a letter to party cadres said though &quot;such flowers may bloom, they do not spread fragrance,&quot; which is seen as an indication that the duo could not succeed and shine in politics though they could enter the fray.

Kamal Haasan was quick to retort to Stalin&#39;s jibe, telling reporters at Madurai that &quot;I am not a flower, I am a seed, sow me, I will grow.&quot;

Kamal Haasan, who has been meeting senior politicians in the last one week, including DMK&rsquo;s M Karunanidhi and CPI&rsquo;s R Nallakannu, besides Rajinikanth, has also visited Vijayakanth, the film-star who turned politician in 2005.&nbsp;

Asked why he did not meet any leaders of the ruling AIADMK, Kamal Haasan said he does not like this government. &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t want to meet them.&rdquo;

On the eve of the party launch, DMK working president M K Stalin ridiculed the actor’s political venture.

Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan has invited people to 'create a new era' even as he gears up to launch his political party on Wednesday in Madurai. Haasan began his political journey from the house of former President APJ Abdul Kalam. Hours before launching his political party, he visited the residence of Kalam and interacted with his family members. Haasan was warmly received by the family members of the former President. The actor slightly tweaked his schedule for the day, cancelling his visit to a school, after the local administration reportedly denied him permission to visit it. The actor will take out a rally from the house of Kalam at Rameswaram, culminating in Madurai where he will address a rally to announce the party’s name and launch its flag. According to sources close to the actor Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to attend the rally; Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan and Bihar CM Nitish Kumar too have been invited, however, they could send video messages as they could not reach Madurai. People in Tamil Nadu are waiting for to know who are the other party key members and whether the actor will announce their names at the meeting in Madurai today. While some source said that the actor will announce the list of office bearers including party’s district committees at the rally in Madurai, other reports suggested that the actor likely to follow the path of late chief minister J Jayalalithaa, who was the single power centre in the party she ran until her death and unlikely project anyone. Tamil Nadu: Kamal Haasan visits APJ Abdul Kalam's house in Rameswaram. pic.twitter.com/fp10vi4atL — ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2018 × “There are intellectuals, activists and anti-corruption groups guiding and advising him, but he is unlikely to project a second leader next to him in the initial stages,” reports said quoting a source. The party will be in the line of Aam Aadmi Party and similar anti-corruption movements in Tamil Nadu. The party's name may not include words such as ‘Dravida’ or ‘Kazhagam’. Some of the final designs selected for the flag are simple ones in two or three colours.” Tamil Nadu: Kamal Haasan leaves after visiting APJ Abdul Kalam's house in Rameswaram. pic.twitter.com/m8NxR8V8he — ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2018 × Hassan is expected to Ramanathapuram, his hometown, where he will address a gathering that is expected to be of 2,000 or more people He will meet people at two more places on the way to Madurai, in Paramakudi and Manamadurai. Organisers expect a few hundred people in both places and he may also deliver speeches. On the eve of the party launch, DMK working president M K Stalin ridiculed the actor’s political venture. Taking a veiled dig once again at top actors Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan for their political ambitions, DMK Working President M K Stalin likened them to 'glamorous paper flowers' which do not spread fragrance. "Owing to seasonal changes some flowers may suddenly bloom and later wither. Similarly, in Tamil Nadu's political arena too glamorous paper flowers may bloom," he said in an apparent reference to top actors Rajinikanth and Haasan's political entry. The Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly, in a letter to party cadres said though "such flowers may bloom, they do not spread fragrance," which is seen as an indication that the duo could not succeed and shine in politics though they could enter the fray. Kamal Haasan was quick to retort to Stalin's jibe, telling reporters at Madurai that "I am not a flower, I am a seed, sow me, I will grow." Kamal Haasan, who has been meeting senior politicians in the last one week, including DMK’s M Karunanidhi and CPI’s R Nallakannu, besides Rajinikanth, has also visited Vijayakanth, the film-star who turned politician in 2005. Asked why he did not meet any leaders of the ruling AIADMK, Kamal Haasan said he does not like this government. “I don’t want to meet them.”

Kamal Haasan to launch political party today, invites people to 'create a new era'