<p>Hundreds of people staged a&nbsp;protest&nbsp;in Kolkata, the capital of India's eastern state of West Bengal, on Monday (Dec 16) under the banner of "Bengali Hindu Suraksha Samiti", raising their voices on the attacks on minorities in Bangladesh and demanding the release of ISKCON priest Chinmoy Krishna Das.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rally began at Sealdah station and culminated at Rani Rashmoni Road in Kolkata. The protesters were seen traveling a distance of 2 km as they raised slogans demanding the release of Hindu monks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They further demanded the Bangladesh interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, to stop the atrocities on Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The protesters were carrying saffron flags and banners, highlighting their concerns over the continued violence against Hindus and their temples in Dhaka.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hoping-for-stable-relationship-jaishankar-on-bangladesh-ties-amid-attacks-on-hindus-783686"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;‘Hoping for stable relationship,’ Jaishankar on Bangladesh ties amid attacks on Hindus</strong></a></p>

<p>Moreover, they called for immediate action from the interim government to ensure the safety and security of Hindus in Bangladesh, adding that the perpetrators should be punished.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Chinmoy Das's arrest</strong></h2>

<p>The protesters alleged that the Hindu monk's arrest was unjustified and he was targeted when he voiced his concerns over attacks on Hindus and other minorities and their places of worship after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They demanded the interim government ensure that the minorities in Bangladesh live in an atmosphere of peace and harmony.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reiterated that the government of Bangladesh was responsible for the safety of religious minorities in the country.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Vikram Misri In Bangladesh: India Seeks Constructive, Mutually Beneficial Relations | WION</strong></p>

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<p>He said the treatment of Hindus in neighbouring Bangladesh was a matter of concern, referring to a series of attacks on Hindu temples by mobs.</p>

<p>“It is our hope that with the new dispensation in Bangladesh, we will settle down to a mutually beneficial and stable relationship," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hindus have increasingly come under attack in Bangladesh since the ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has acknowledged that at least 88 incidents of violence had occurred against the Hindu community over the last few months.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Hundreds of people staged a protest in Kolkata, the capital of India's eastern state of West Bengal, on Monday (Dec 16) under the banner of "Bengali Hindu Suraksha Samiti", raising their voices on the attacks on minorities in Bangladesh and demanding the release of ISKCON priest Chinmoy Krishna Das.

Hundreds of people staged a protest in Kolkata, the capital of India's eastern state of West Bengal, on Monday (Dec 16) under the banner of "Bengali Hindu Suraksha Samiti", raising their voices on the attacks on minorities in Bangladesh and demanding the release of ISKCON priest Chinmoy Krishna Das. The rally began at Sealdah station and culminated at Rani Rashmoni Road in Kolkata. The protesters were seen traveling a distance of 2 km as they raised slogans demanding the release of Hindu monks. They further demanded the Bangladesh interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, to stop the atrocities on Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. The protesters were carrying saffron flags and banners, highlighting their concerns over the continued violence against Hindus and their temples in Dhaka. Also read: ‘Hoping for stable relationship,’ Jaishankar on Bangladesh ties amid attacks on Hindus Moreover, they called for immediate action from the interim government to ensure the safety and security of Hindus in Bangladesh, adding that the perpetrators should be punished. Chinmoy Das's arrest The protesters alleged that the Hindu monk's arrest was unjustified and he was targeted when he voiced his concerns over attacks on Hindus and other minorities and their places of worship after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government. They demanded the interim government ensure that the minorities in Bangladesh live in an atmosphere of peace and harmony. Last week, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reiterated that the government of Bangladesh was responsible for the safety of religious minorities in the country. Watch | Vikram Misri In Bangladesh: India Seeks Constructive, Mutually Beneficial Relations | WION × He said the treatment of Hindus in neighbouring Bangladesh was a matter of concern, referring to a series of attacks on Hindu temples by mobs. “It is our hope that with the new dispensation in Bangladesh, we will settle down to a mutually beneficial and stable relationship," he said. Hindus have increasingly come under attack in Bangladesh since the ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has acknowledged that at least 88 incidents of violence had occurred against the Hindu community over the last few months. (With inputs from agencies)

Hundreds of people protest in Kolkata over attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh, demand release of Chinmoy Das

<p><span class="region">New Delhi, India </span>
<p><meta charset="utf-8"/>Protesting farmers, blocked thrice from marching to Delhi, have declared a statewide ‘Rail Roko’ agitation in Punjab on December 18, urging unity among farmer unions.</p></p>
<p dir="ltr">Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher urged the residents of Punjab’s 13,000 villages to block railway tracks from 12 to 3 pm. “We appeal to everyone living near railway crossings to join this movement,” Pandher said at a press conference at the Shambhu border in Patiala.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Pandher also reached out to Rakesh Tikait-led Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), the prominent farmers' group that led last year's protest against the now-repealed farm laws. In a letter, Pandher invited SKM to join the 'Rail Roko' protest, calling for unity despite past differences. “Let’s unite for the welfare of farmers and labourers,” Pandher stated.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Previous attempts to enter Delhi stopped</strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr">Farmers tried to enter Delhi on foot three times—on December 6, 8, and 14. Each time, the police stopped them. On December 14, the police used tear gas, injuring 17 farmers. Despite these obstacles, the farmers are still holding their ground at the Punjab-Haryana border and are determined to continue their protest.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Impact of the protest</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The farmers plan to block important railway routes in Punjab, which is expected to cause major disruption. This is the latest step in their ongoing protest against policies they believe harm their interests.</p>
<p dir="ltr">All eyes will be on December 18 to see if the protest gains support and if SKM joins in.</p>
<p>(<em>With inputs from agencies</em>) </p>


Pandher also contacted the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), led by Rakesh Tikait, the well-known farmers' group that led last year's protest against the farm laws that were later repealed. 



New Delhi, India Protesting farmers, blocked thrice from marching to Delhi, have declared a statewide ‘Rail Roko’ agitation in Punjab on December 18, urging unity among farmer unions. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher urged the residents of Punjab’s 13,000 villages to block railway tracks from 12 to 3 pm. “We appeal to everyone living near railway crossings to join this movement,” Pandher said at a press conference at the Shambhu border in Patiala. Pandher also reached out to Rakesh Tikait-led Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), the prominent farmers' group that led last year's protest against the now-repealed farm laws. In a letter, Pandher invited SKM to join the 'Rail Roko' protest, calling for unity despite past differences. “Let’s unite for the welfare of farmers and labourers,” Pandher stated. Previous attempts to enter Delhi stopped Farmers tried to enter Delhi on foot three times—on December 6, 8, and 14. Each time, the police stopped them. On December 14, the police used tear gas, injuring 17 farmers. Despite these obstacles, the farmers are still holding their ground at the Punjab-Haryana border and are determined to continue their protest. Impact of the protest The farmers plan to block important railway routes in Punjab, which is expected to cause major disruption. This is the latest step in their ongoing protest against policies they believe harm their interests. All eyes will be on December 18 to see if the protest gains support and if SKM joins in. (With inputs from agencies)

Protesting farmers announce ‘Rail Roko’ on December 18, call for Rakesh Tikait’s support

Unions and social movements gathered in Rio de Janeiro to hold a large-scale demonstration in defense of democracy and to demand accountability for the 2022 coup plot against President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Watch for more details!

Brazil: Protesters Called For Prison Sentences & Opposed Granting Amnesty

Iran Plans To Open ‘Psychiatric Treatment Center’ For Women Defying Hijab Laws. Iran to open ‘Clinic for Quitting Hijab Removal’ to ‘cure’ women who refuse to wear hijab. Protesters say clinics to function as detention centers, Human rights activists condemn move. Iran witnessed massive protests in recent years where women have called out moral policing. Women have accused police of assaulting women for not following strict dress codes. Watch to know more

Iran Imposes Strict Hijab Laws, Approves Death Penalty For Offenders | World DNA | WION

People have taken to the streets in Georgia for the 12th consecutive day of protests against the government's decision to shelve European Union accession talks after disputed elections. Watch for more details!

Georgia Protest: Over 400 People Arrested Since Start Of Second Wave Of Unrest

Imran Khan has issued a strong warning to the Pakistani government, threatening civil disobedience unless his key demands are addressed. The former Prime Minister's statement has intensified the political crisis in the country, fueling tensions between his party and the government.

Pakistan: Jailed Former PM Imran Khan Threatens Civil Disobedience Movement | WION Dispatch

Pakistan: Imran Khan's Ultimatum To Govt: Release Political Prisoners Or Face Protests | WION

As hundreds of demonstrators gathered in parliament in the Georgian capital to express their anger at the ruling party's decision to halt talks on entering the European Union, violent riots in Tbilisi continued for the sixth consecutive night. To break up thousands of pro-EU protesters gathered in the Black Sea nation amid a worsening political crisis, Georgian police used tear gas. Police clashed with Georgian protesters after massive agitation broke out after a delay in the nation's EU bid. Police fired water canons and used pepper spray guns at demonstrators. Watch to know more!

Georgian Opposition Figures Arrested As Pro-EU Protests Continue | Race To Power | WION

Incarcerated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan on Thursday (Dec 5), was indicted in the General Headquarters (GHQ) attack which took place during the May 9 riots last year.

Pakistan Former PM Imran Khan Indicted On May 9 GHQ Attack Case | World News | WION

The United States has denounced the Georgian government's violent suppression of opposition demonstrators threatening further sanctions. The condemnation comes amid ongoing unrest in Tbilisi where thousands of pro-demonstrators have taken to the streets for the seventh consecutive night. Watch to know more!

Georgia Protest: US Condemns Georgia's Brutal Crackdown On Opposition & Pro-EU Protesters

<p>Georgia's prime minister on Tuesday threatened to punish his political opponents, accusing them of being behind the violence at mass protests, as Tbilisi's top court rejected a key lawsuit to annul the result of a contested October vote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, who infuriated protesters last week by announcing his government would shelve EU accession talks until 2028, also suggested he would take retribution on public servants if they take part in the protests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets on Monday against the ruling Georgian Dream party in a fifth straight night of protests, with more demonstrations planned on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They accuse the government of bringing Tbilisi back into Moscow's orbit and betraying the Black Sea nation's bid for EU membership, which is enshrined in its constitution and supported by around 80 per cent of the population.</p>

<p>Georgia has been gripped by political turmoil since a contested October election, which pro-EU President Salome Zurabishvili and the opposition say Georgian Dream rigged, demanding a re-run.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But, intensifying the crisis, Tbilisi's top court on Tuesday rejected a lawsuit filed by Zurabishvili and opposition parties to overturn the election result.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A re-run of the contested vote was one of the protesters' main demands.</p>

<p>Zurabishvili, who backs the protests and whom Georgian Dream is trying to remove from office, has not yet responded to the court's decision to throw out her case.</p>

<p>That announcement came shortly after Kobakhidze -- who has ruled out talks with the opposition -- vowed to punish his opponents.</p>

<p>"Opposition politicians who have orchestrated the violence in recent days while hiding in their offices will not escape responsibility," he said at a press conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ruling Georgian Dream party has refused to back down despite increasing international criticism of Georgia's handling of its protests, with several Western countries saying Tbilisi had used excessive force.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgian-pm-kobakhidze-says-there-will-be-no-revolution-as-protests-hit-country-781012"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Georgian PM Kobakhidze says there will be 'no revolution' as protests hit country</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Kremlin-style language&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Kobakhidze, 46, also threatened to punish civil servants who joined the protests after several ambassadors and a deputy foreign minister resigned over the demonstration crackdown and his decision to suspend EU talks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The process of self-cleansing within the public sector has been very interesting. We are closely monitoring everyone's actions, and they will not go without a response," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Evoking language used by the Kremlin, Kobakhidze alleged the protest movement was "funded from abroad".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also singled out NGOs -- heavily targeted in a repressive pre-election campaign by authorities -- for being behind the protests, vowing that they will "not evade responsibility as defined by law".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Georgia Protest: PM Kobakhidze Refuses Negotiations With Oppn</strong></p>

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<p>Tbilisi earlier this year adopted Russian-style legislation designed to restrict the activity of NGOs as well as measures that the EU says curb LGBTQ rights.</p>

<p>The adoption of the laws prompted the US to slap sanctions on Georgian officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Kobakhidze said his government hoped that the "US attitudes towards us will change after January 20"—when Donald Trump, who has criticised federal support for gender transition, takes office.</p>

<h2><strong>'Message is clear'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Kobakhidze's threats to the opposition came as more Western leaders criticised Tbilisi's police response to the protests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NATO chief Mark Rutte on Tuesday slammed as "deeply concerning" the situation in Georgia, condemning "unequivocally" the reports of violence.</p>

<p>The mostly young protesters accuse Georgian Dream of acting on Russian orders and fear the ex-Soviet country will end up back under Russian influence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We want freedom and we do not want to find ourselves in Russia," 21-year-old protester Nika Maghradze, told AFP.</p>

<p>Georgia's health ministry earlier said that 26 people -- 23 protesters and three law enforcement officers -- were injured in the latest protest on Monday night.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>President Zurabishvili has described the protests as Georgians "rising against the Russian puppetry regime".</p>

<p>"The message is clear: Give me my vote back! Give me my European future back!" she had said on social media on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some protesters placed their hopes in the 72-year-old president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"She is our only chance," 43-year-old demonstrator Mariam told AFP on Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Georgia's prime minister on Tuesday threatened to punish his political opponents, accusing them of being behind the violence at mass protests, as Tbilisi's top court rejected a key lawsuit to annul the result of a contested October vote.

Georgia's prime minister on Tuesday threatened to punish his political opponents, accusing them of being behind the violence at mass protests, as Tbilisi's top court rejected a key lawsuit to annul the result of a contested October vote. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, who infuriated protesters last week by announcing his government would shelve EU accession talks until 2028, also suggested he would take retribution on public servants if they take part in the protests. Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets on Monday against the ruling Georgian Dream party in a fifth straight night of protests, with more demonstrations planned on Tuesday. They accuse the government of bringing Tbilisi back into Moscow's orbit and betraying the Black Sea nation's bid for EU membership, which is enshrined in its constitution and supported by around 80 per cent of the population. Georgia has been gripped by political turmoil since a contested October election, which pro-EU President Salome Zurabishvili and the opposition say Georgian Dream rigged, demanding a re-run. But, intensifying the crisis, Tbilisi's top court on Tuesday rejected a lawsuit filed by Zurabishvili and opposition parties to overturn the election result. A re-run of the contested vote was one of the protesters' main demands. Zurabishvili, who backs the protests and whom Georgian Dream is trying to remove from office, has not yet responded to the court's decision to throw out her case. That announcement came shortly after Kobakhidze -- who has ruled out talks with the opposition -- vowed to punish his opponents. "Opposition politicians who have orchestrated the violence in recent days while hiding in their offices will not escape responsibility," he said at a press conference. The ruling Georgian Dream party has refused to back down despite increasing international criticism of Georgia's handling of its protests, with several Western countries saying Tbilisi had used excessive force. Also read: Georgian PM Kobakhidze says there will be 'no revolution' as protests hit country Kremlin-style language Kobakhidze, 46, also threatened to punish civil servants who joined the protests after several ambassadors and a deputy foreign minister resigned over the demonstration crackdown and his decision to suspend EU talks. "The process of self-cleansing within the public sector has been very interesting. We are closely monitoring everyone's actions, and they will not go without a response," he said. Evoking language used by the Kremlin, Kobakhidze alleged the protest movement was "funded from abroad". He also singled out NGOs -- heavily targeted in a repressive pre-election campaign by authorities -- for being behind the protests, vowing that they will "not evade responsibility as defined by law". Watch | Georgia Protest: PM Kobakhidze Refuses Negotiations With Oppn × Tbilisi earlier this year adopted Russian-style legislation designed to restrict the activity of NGOs as well as measures that the EU says curb LGBTQ rights. The adoption of the laws prompted the US to slap sanctions on Georgian officials. But Kobakhidze said his government hoped that the "US attitudes towards us will change after January 20"—when Donald Trump, who has criticised federal support for gender transition, takes office. 'Message is clear' Kobakhidze's threats to the opposition came as more Western leaders criticised Tbilisi's police response to the protests. NATO chief Mark Rutte on Tuesday slammed as "deeply concerning" the situation in Georgia, condemning "unequivocally" the reports of violence. The mostly young protesters accuse Georgian Dream of acting on Russian orders and fear the ex-Soviet country will end up back under Russian influence. "We want freedom and we do not want to find ourselves in Russia," 21-year-old protester Nika Maghradze, told AFP. Georgia's health ministry earlier said that 26 people -- 23 protesters and three law enforcement officers -- were injured in the latest protest on Monday night. President Zurabishvili has described the protests as Georgians "rising against the Russian puppetry regime". "The message is clear: Give me my vote back! Give me my European future back!" she had said on social media on Monday. Some protesters placed their hopes in the 72-year-old president. "She is our only chance," 43-year-old demonstrator Mariam told AFP on Monday. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Georgia PM threatens to punish protesters as court rejects bid to annul vote

Pro- European Union protests in Georgia continue to intensify protesters took to the streets of Tbilisi for a fifth consecutive day. Protesters' are demanding Fair elections they've asserted their right to EU membership and Democratic Values. Watch in for more details!

Georgia Protest: UN Condemns Use Of Disproportionate Force Against Protesters

Pakistan: Bushra Bibi 'disappointed' with PTI leaders, claims sister Maryam Riyaz Wattoo. Watch in for more details!

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<p>Police in&nbsp;Georgia&nbsp;arrested dozens of people overnight and early Friday in a violent crackdown on protests against the government's decision to delay EU membership talks.</p>

<p>The Black Sea nation has been rocked by turmoil since the ruling party declared victory in October parliamentary elections that the pro-EU opposition decried as falsified.</p>

<p>On Thursday night and Friday morning, riot police fired rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannons to disperse gatherings outside parliament in Tbilisi, beating peaceful protesters and journalists, an AFP reporter witnessed.</p>

<p>The interior ministry said 32 of its staff were injured and "43 individuals were detained by law enforcement for disobeying lawful police orders and for petty hooliganism".</p>

<p>Thousands of people took to the streets after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze of the ruling Georgian Dream party shelved plans to pursue membership of the European Union until 2028.</p>

<p>The opposition has accused Georgian Dream of steering Tbilisi away from its long-held dream of joining the bloc and gravitating towards Russia.</p>

<p>Two politicians from the opposition Coalition for Change, Elene Khoshtaria and Nana Malashkhia, were reportedly injured during the protests.</p>

<p>Khoshtaria sustained a broken arm, while Malashkhia suffered a broken nose, the coalition said.</p>

<p>Prominent poet Zviad Ratiani was among those arrested, the PEN Writers' association in Georgia said, demanding his immediate release.</p>

<p>Ukraine said Friday it was "disappointed" by Tbilisi's decision to pause EU accession talks, accusing the Georgian government of trying to "please Moscow".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgia-president-challenges-election-verdict-in-court-amid-heavy-protests-777497"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Georgia president challenges election verdict in court amid heavy protests</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Post-election crisis&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Opposition lawmakers are boycotting the new parliament, while Georgia's pro-EU president Salome Zurabishvili has sought to annul the election results through the country's constitutional court.</p>

<p>The prime minister's announcement to delay EU accession came hours after the European Parliament adopted a non-binding resolution rejecting the results of Georgia's October 26 elections, alleging "significant irregularities".</p>

<p>The resolution called for a new vote within a year under international supervision and for sanctions to be imposed on top Georgian officials, including Prime Minister Kobakhidze.</p>

<p>Accusing the European Parliament of "blackmail", Kobakhidze said: "We have decided not to bring up the issue of joining the European Union on the agenda until the end of 2028."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Georgia Ruling Party Names Presidential Candidate</strong></p>

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<p>But he pledged to continue implementing reforms, adding: "By 2028, Georgia will be more prepared than any other candidate country to open accession talks with Brussels and become a member state in 2030."</p>

<p>On Thursday, Georgian Dream MPs voted unanimously for Kobakhidze to continue as prime minister.</p>

<p>But constitutional law experts say any decisions made by the new parliament are invalid because it is still awaiting a court ruling on Zurabishvili's bid to annul the election results.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, the ruling party nominated far-right politician and former football international Mikheil Kavelashvili for the largely ceremonial post of president, further ratcheting up tensions.</p>

<p>The former Soviet country officially gained EU candidate status in December 2023, an aspiration that is supported by 80 per cent of the population, according to polling.</p>

<p>But earlier this year Brussels froze Georgia's accession process, citing the need for Tbilisi to address what it says is democratic backsliding.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Police in Georgia arrested dozens of people overnight and early Friday in a violent crackdown on protests against the government's decision to delay EU membership talks.

Police in Georgia arrested dozens of people overnight and early Friday in a violent crackdown on protests against the government's decision to delay EU membership talks. The Black Sea nation has been rocked by turmoil since the ruling party declared victory in October parliamentary elections that the pro-EU opposition decried as falsified. On Thursday night and Friday morning, riot police fired rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannons to disperse gatherings outside parliament in Tbilisi, beating peaceful protesters and journalists, an AFP reporter witnessed. The interior ministry said 32 of its staff were injured and "43 individuals were detained by law enforcement for disobeying lawful police orders and for petty hooliganism". Thousands of people took to the streets after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze of the ruling Georgian Dream party shelved plans to pursue membership of the European Union until 2028. The opposition has accused Georgian Dream of steering Tbilisi away from its long-held dream of joining the bloc and gravitating towards Russia. Two politicians from the opposition Coalition for Change, Elene Khoshtaria and Nana Malashkhia, were reportedly injured during the protests. Khoshtaria sustained a broken arm, while Malashkhia suffered a broken nose, the coalition said. Prominent poet Zviad Ratiani was among those arrested, the PEN Writers' association in Georgia said, demanding his immediate release. Ukraine said Friday it was "disappointed" by Tbilisi's decision to pause EU accession talks, accusing the Georgian government of trying to "please Moscow". Also read: Georgia president challenges election verdict in court amid heavy protests Post-election crisis Opposition lawmakers are boycotting the new parliament, while Georgia's pro-EU president Salome Zurabishvili has sought to annul the election results through the country's constitutional court. The prime minister's announcement to delay EU accession came hours after the European Parliament adopted a non-binding resolution rejecting the results of Georgia's October 26 elections, alleging "significant irregularities". The resolution called for a new vote within a year under international supervision and for sanctions to be imposed on top Georgian officials, including Prime Minister Kobakhidze. Accusing the European Parliament of "blackmail", Kobakhidze said: "We have decided not to bring up the issue of joining the European Union on the agenda until the end of 2028." Watch | Georgia Ruling Party Names Presidential Candidate × But he pledged to continue implementing reforms, adding: "By 2028, Georgia will be more prepared than any other candidate country to open accession talks with Brussels and become a member state in 2030." On Thursday, Georgian Dream MPs voted unanimously for Kobakhidze to continue as prime minister. But constitutional law experts say any decisions made by the new parliament are invalid because it is still awaiting a court ruling on Zurabishvili's bid to annul the election results. On Wednesday, the ruling party nominated far-right politician and former football international Mikheil Kavelashvili for the largely ceremonial post of president, further ratcheting up tensions. The former Soviet country officially gained EU candidate status in December 2023, an aspiration that is supported by 80 per cent of the population, according to polling. But earlier this year Brussels froze Georgia's accession process, citing the need for Tbilisi to address what it says is democratic backsliding. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Georgia: Dozens arrested as pro-EU protesters clash with police

A day after the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf called off the protest, Islamabad police registered eight cases against the party leaders, and of course this included its founder Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi. Others named include Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, attorney Salman Akram Raja. They were charged with terrorism, assault on police, abduction, interference in government operations, and violation of prohibitory orders. Watch in for more details!

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Pakistan: Fresh Cases Against PTI Leadership After Deadly Protests To Free Imran Khan | WION

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf is called off protest in Islamabad following the government’s crackdown 3 days after the march was launched. Thousands of supporters of former prime minister Imran Khan arrived at D-Chowk. Watch in for more details!

Pakistan: Imran Khan's PTI Calls Off Islamabad Protest After Government Crackdown | World News

Three days after the march began, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf canceled their demonstration in Islamabad due to the government's crackdown. Imran Khan's erstwhile followers poured into D-Chowk in their thousands. Stay tuned for additional information!

Pakistan Protest: PTI Calls Off Protest, 8 Killed In Deadly Violence

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf has called off protest in Islamabad following the government’s crackdown 3 days after the march was launched. Thousands of supporters of former prime minister Imran Khan arrived at D-Chowk. Watch in for more details!

Pakistan Protest: Police And PTI Protesters Turn Clash Into Deadly Showdown | World News | WION

Pakistan: Imran Khan's PTI Calls Off Islamabad Protest After Government Crackdown | Newspoint

Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) resumed its march towards Islamabad. March soon turned violent as protesters broke lockdown code. The march aims to protest against the government and demand the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Watch in for more details!

Pakistan: Dozens Injured As PTI's Convoy To Islamabad Clashes With Police  | World DNA

Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) resumed its march towards Islamabad. The march aims to protest against the government and demand the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Watch in for more details!

Pakistan: Thousands Of Imran Khan Supporters Battle Lockdown And Arrest To Head To Islamabad | WION

Supporters of Imran Khan clashed with police in Pakistan as they marched toward D-Chowk for a rally. The violent confrontations erupted amid rising tensions, with Khan’s followers protesting against the government, calling for his reinstatement and challenging the political establishment.

Pakistan: Violent Protest Erupt, Govt Orders Shoot At Sight For Imran Khan’s Supporters | WION

Pakistan: PTI's March For Imran Khan Shuts Down Islamabad, Govt Warns Of Consequences | World DNA

Pakistani police arrest thousands of Imran Khan supporters in capital under lockdown ahead of rally. Khan's wife Bushra Bibi took Center Stage as she participated in the march called by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf. She was part of the Convoy led by Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ali Amin Gandapur. Watch in for more details!

Pakistan: Imran Khan's PTI Marches To Islamabad Defying Strict Lockdown | World News | WION

<p>Thousands of people took to the streets in major French cities against violence targeting women as the case of a 71-year-old woman came in limelight this year, who was raped by nearly 50 men for years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>France mass rape trial entered the final stage this week. In the coming week, the prosecutors will ask the court in the southern city of Avignon to sentence 51 men, including the one who drugged his wife for over a decade and dozens of others who accepted his invitations to abuse her at their home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The more of us there are, the more visible we are, this is everyone's business, not just women," Peggy Plou, a local elected official from the Indre-et-Loire region in western France who had made the trip to Paris, said during the protest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thousands of people marched in Paris, mainly women but including some men and children too.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-mass-rape-trial-enters-final-stage-victim-gisele-says-society-must-change-way-it-looks-at-rape-777394"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;France mass rape trial enters final stage, victim Gisele says society must change way it looks at rape</strong></a></p>

<p>Moreover, hundreds of strong demonstrations were also held in other major cities of France including Marseille in the south, Lille in the northeast, and Rennes in the northwest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many of the protesters were seen carrying signs with the slogan "Shame must switch sides", which was popularised by the plaintiff in the Avignon trial, Gisele Pelicot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The France mass rape horror has turned Gisèle into a feminist icon as she refused to keep the trial private and went ahead with opening it to the public to raise awareness.</p>

<p>"A law about consent must be put in place very quickly. Just because someone doesn't say something, doesn't mean that they agree" to sexual contact, said Marie-Claire Abiker, a retired nurse marching in Paris, AFP reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;France: Gisele Pelicot Narrates Her Harrowing Tale In Court</strong></p>

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<p>Amy Bah, a member of the NousToutes (all of us women) feminist group protesting in Lille, said that in 2018, there were basically only women demonstrating. However, today, there is 30 per cent of men and that is great news.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I feel like this is my business too, we each have our role to play, especially men," said Arnaud Garcette at the Marseille demonstration, where he was marching with his two children.</p>

<p>"We're at the source of the problem, and at the source of the solutions too," he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Thousands of people took to the streets in major French cities against violence targeting women as the case of a 71-year-old woman came in limelight this year, who was raped by nearly 50 men for years.

Thousands of people took to the streets in major French cities against violence targeting women as the case of a 71-year-old woman came in limelight this year, who was raped by nearly 50 men for years. France mass rape trial entered the final stage this week. In the coming week, the prosecutors will ask the court in the southern city of Avignon to sentence 51 men, including the one who drugged his wife for over a decade and dozens of others who accepted his invitations to abuse her at their home. "The more of us there are, the more visible we are, this is everyone's business, not just women," Peggy Plou, a local elected official from the Indre-et-Loire region in western France who had made the trip to Paris, said during the protest. Thousands of people marched in Paris, mainly women but including some men and children too. Also read: France mass rape trial enters final stage, victim Gisele says society must change way it looks at rape Moreover, hundreds of strong demonstrations were also held in other major cities of France including Marseille in the south, Lille in the northeast, and Rennes in the northwest. Many of the protesters were seen carrying signs with the slogan "Shame must switch sides", which was popularised by the plaintiff in the Avignon trial, Gisele Pelicot. The France mass rape horror has turned Gisèle into a feminist icon as she refused to keep the trial private and went ahead with opening it to the public to raise awareness. "A law about consent must be put in place very quickly. Just because someone doesn't say something, doesn't mean that they agree" to sexual contact, said Marie-Claire Abiker, a retired nurse marching in Paris, AFP reported. Watch | France: Gisele Pelicot Narrates Her Harrowing Tale In Court × Amy Bah, a member of the NousToutes (all of us women) feminist group protesting in Lille, said that in 2018, there were basically only women demonstrating. However, today, there is 30 per cent of men and that is great news. "I feel like this is my business too, we each have our role to play, especially men," said Arnaud Garcette at the Marseille demonstration, where he was marching with his two children. "We're at the source of the problem, and at the source of the solutions too," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Thousands protest across France after Gisele Pelicot's mass rape trial triggers nation

Japan unveils a $140 billion plan aimed at combating inflation and stimulating growth in key sectors of its economy.

Japanese Worried About Water Pollution Caused By US Bases

<p>Two Iranian students who visited a visa extension centre at Kazan Federal University on Friday were arrested after being subjected to "inhumane and unprofessional beating" by the police, according to the IRNA state news agency, which cited a statement from Iran's consulate in the city.</p>

<p>In response Iran submitted "a protest note" to the Russian Foreign Ministry condemning the "violent treatment of the Iranian students by the police", IRNA said.</p>

<p>Iran, a close ally of Russia, has requested "explanations" for the incident.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-woman-who-stripped-in-anti-hijab-protest-released-without-charges-777666"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Iranian woman who stripped in anti-hijab protest released without charges</strong></a></p>

<p>The two students were released late on Friday following interventions by the consulate.</p>

<p>The press service of the Kazan police said via Telegram on Friday that a conflict among students had turned physical, and that officers had "detained the instigators" of the fight.</p>

<p>The statement did not give the nationality of those arrested.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;After IAEA Censure, Iran to Launch Advanced Centrifuges</strong></p>

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<p>The regional Investigative Committee in Kazan also reported on Friday that two foreign nationals were arrested for allegedly "using violence against a representative of the authority".</p>

<p>Iran's top diplomat, Abbas Araghchi, has "repeatedly" followed up on the incident, said a post on X from Kazem Jalali, Tehran's ambassador to Moscow.</p>

<p>Jalali, in another post on Friday, condemned "any sort of misbehavior with Iranian students", asking for "the responsible Russian authorities" to be held accountable.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Two Iranian students who visited a visa extension centre at Kazan Federal University on Friday were arrested after being subjected to "inhumane and unprofessional beating" by the police, according to the IRNA state news agency, which cited a statement from Iran's consulate in the city.

Two Iranian students who visited a visa extension centre at Kazan Federal University on Friday were arrested after being subjected to "inhumane and unprofessional beating" by the police, according to the IRNA state news agency, which cited a statement from Iran's consulate in the city. In response Iran submitted "a protest note" to the Russian Foreign Ministry condemning the "violent treatment of the Iranian students by the police", IRNA said. Iran, a close ally of Russia, has requested "explanations" for the incident. Also read: Iranian woman who stripped in anti-hijab protest released without charges The two students were released late on Friday following interventions by the consulate. The press service of the Kazan police said via Telegram on Friday that a conflict among students had turned physical, and that officers had "detained the instigators" of the fight. The statement did not give the nationality of those arrested. Watch | After IAEA Censure, Iran to Launch Advanced Centrifuges × The regional Investigative Committee in Kazan also reported on Friday that two foreign nationals were arrested for allegedly "using violence against a representative of the authority". Iran's top diplomat, Abbas Araghchi, has "repeatedly" followed up on the incident, said a post on X from Kazem Jalali, Tehran's ambassador to Moscow. Jalali, in another post on Friday, condemned "any sort of misbehavior with Iranian students", asking for "the responsible Russian authorities" to be held accountable. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tehran decries 'violent arrests' and 'inhumane and unprofessional beating' of Iranian students in Russia

Iranian woman who stripped in public released without any charges. She stripped to her underwear in an apparent anti-hijab protest. Woman named Ahoo Daryaei undressed on a university campus before being detained. Earlier in November, video went viral on social media capturing the moment. Iranian judiciary spokesperson says she was treated in hospital and returned to her family. Watch to know more!

Iran: Woman Who Stripped In Public Released Without Charges, Labelled Mentally Ill' | WION Originals

<p>More than 40,000 people have been protesting outside New Zealand's parliament on Tuesday (Nov. 19), opposing a bill that seeks to dilute the rights of Maori people and threatens to set race relations back by decades.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The controversial bill seeks to reinterpret the country's founding document between British colonisers and Māori people.</p>

<p>Today's protest marked the end of a nine-day hīkoi, or peaceful protest, in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police said that around 42,000 people gathered at parliament, where the Treaty Principles Bill was introduced earlier this month by legislators who would want to reinterpret an 184-year-old treaty signed between the British and the indigenous Maori.</p>

<p>The protest was one of the biggest in New Zealand's history, with many protesters draped in colours of the Maori flag.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-parliament-briefly-suspended-after-politicians-begin-haka-protest-over-maori-rights-bill-776199"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;New Zealand parliament briefly suspended after politicians begin haka protest over Maori rights bill</strong></a></p>

<p>The bill, however, is not likely to pass into law, but the discussion and the division are set to continue, and it will take another six months for a second reading.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said it would not pass into law, despite the fact that he is part of the same coalition as Act.</p>

<p>"Our position as the National Party is unchanged. We won't be supporting the bill beyond the second reading, and therefore it won't become law," Luxon said, according to the New Zealand Herald.</p>

<p>"We don't think through the stroke of a pen you go rewrite 184 years of debate and discussion," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, New Zealand's parliament was briefly suspended after the controversial Maori bill triggered a haka dance protest, raging debate, and personal attacks.</p>

<p>As parliamentarians gathered for a preliminary vote on the bill, Te Pati Maori (Maori Party) MPs stood up and began the traditional Maori dance, haka.&nbsp;</p>

<p>MP for Hauraki Waikato, Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, began the haka after tearing the bill in the parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | New Zealand: Thousands rally against bill undermining indigenous rights</strong></p>

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<p>In an intense scene, the Māori haka briefly halted New Zealand MPs from casting their votes on the Treaty Principles Bill, igniting powerful reactions and concluding a fiery debate.</p>

<p>Debbie Ngarewa-Packer, co-leader of Te Pāti Māori (Maori Party) said, "We can’t live equally if we have one people who are the indigenous people living ‘less than’,” she argued. What the coalition government is doing is “an absolute attempt to divide an otherwise progressive country and it’s really embarrassing."</p>

<p>"To see it in parliament, in the highest house in Aotearoa, there’s been a real state of surprise and I think disappointment and sadness that in 2024 when we see politics and the Trump extremes, this is what the Māori are having to endure,” said Ngarewa-Packer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s humiliating for the government because we [New Zealand] are normally seen as punching above our weight in all of the great things in life.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


More than 40,000 people have been protesting outside New Zealand's parliament on Tuesday (Nov. 19), opposing a bill that seeks to dilute the rights of Maori people and threatens to set race relations back by decades.

More than 40,000 people have been protesting outside New Zealand's parliament on Tuesday (Nov. 19), opposing a bill that seeks to dilute the rights of Maori people and threatens to set race relations back by decades. The controversial bill seeks to reinterpret the country's founding document between British colonisers and Māori people. Today's protest marked the end of a nine-day hīkoi, or peaceful protest, in the country. The police said that around 42,000 people gathered at parliament, where the Treaty Principles Bill was introduced earlier this month by legislators who would want to reinterpret an 184-year-old treaty signed between the British and the indigenous Maori. The protest was one of the biggest in New Zealand's history, with many protesters draped in colours of the Maori flag. Also read: New Zealand parliament briefly suspended after politicians begin haka protest over Maori rights bill The bill, however, is not likely to pass into law, but the discussion and the division are set to continue, and it will take another six months for a second reading. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said it would not pass into law, despite the fact that he is part of the same coalition as Act. "Our position as the National Party is unchanged. We won't be supporting the bill beyond the second reading, and therefore it won't become law," Luxon said, according to the New Zealand Herald. "We don't think through the stroke of a pen you go rewrite 184 years of debate and discussion," he added. Last week, New Zealand's parliament was briefly suspended after the controversial Maori bill triggered a haka dance protest, raging debate, and personal attacks. As parliamentarians gathered for a preliminary vote on the bill, Te Pati Maori (Maori Party) MPs stood up and began the traditional Maori dance, haka. MP for Hauraki Waikato, Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, began the haka after tearing the bill in the parliament. Watch | New Zealand: Thousands rally against bill undermining indigenous rights × In an intense scene, the Māori haka briefly halted New Zealand MPs from casting their votes on the Treaty Principles Bill, igniting powerful reactions and concluding a fiery debate. Debbie Ngarewa-Packer, co-leader of Te Pāti Māori (Maori Party) said, "We can’t live equally if we have one people who are the indigenous people living ‘less than’,” she argued. What the coalition government is doing is “an absolute attempt to divide an otherwise progressive country and it’s really embarrassing." "To see it in parliament, in the highest house in Aotearoa, there’s been a real state of surprise and I think disappointment and sadness that in 2024 when we see politics and the Trump extremes, this is what the Māori are having to endure,” said Ngarewa-Packer. “It’s humiliating for the government because we [New Zealand] are normally seen as punching above our weight in all of the great things in life.” (With inputs from agencies)

Over 40,000 people protest outside New Zealand's parliament over controversial Maori rights bill

Some of Britain's most notorious cases have been tried at London's old bailey, including those attracting the death penalty until the punishment was abolished in the 1960s. But this week, capital crimes returned to the central criminal court of England and wales, with a unique musical protest.

U.S. Death Row Inmate Stages Jazz Protest

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