Security has been tightened around the Sterlite Copper plant following information that attempts were on by some outfits to organise a major protest in the backdrop of the NGT setting aside a Tamil Nadu government order permanently closing it, officials said Monday.

Besides, security was strengthened in other parts of the district as well, including at the Collectorate where many police personnel had been posted, as a precautionary measure in view of the violent protests witnessed in May this year demanding the closure of the plant.

Thirteen people were killed in police firing on May 22-23 after the 99-day long protest by the locals against Sterlite turned violent and government properties came under attack. The protesters were demanding the closure of the plant citing pollution concerns.

While the Tamil Nadu government had on May 28 ordered permanent closure of the plant in the wake of the protests, the National Green Tribunal on Saturday set it aside, allowing an appeal by the Sterlite.

The state government has said it would file an appeal in the Supreme Court against the NGT order even as opposition parties attacked it for "negligent" handling of the issue.

An official Monday said there was information that some religious and political outfits were trying to coordinate and organize major agitation against Sterlite.

Police personnel from five neighbouring districts of Virudhungar, Dindigul, Sivaganga, Kanyakumari and Tirunelveli have been deployed in the district to meet any situation, police informed. Outsiders were being monitored to find if the locals were being instigated, they said.

Meanwhile, a group of students, affiliated to the Democratic Youth Federation and the Students Federation of India, staged a protest in front of a college demanding that a resolution should be passed by the state assembly for continued closure of the Sterlite unit.

A report from Coimbatore said 20 activists of "Makkal Adhikaram", a fringe outfit, were arrested when they attempted to stage a demonstration condemning the NGT order.&nbsp;

Security has been tightened around the Sterlite Copper plant following information that attempts were on by some outfits to organise a major protest in the backdrop of the NGT setting aside a Tamil Nadu government order permanently closing it, officials said Monday.

Security has been tightened around the Sterlite Copper plant following information that attempts were on by some outfits to organise a major protest in the backdrop of the NGT setting aside a Tamil Nadu government order permanently closing it, officials said Monday. Besides, security was strengthened in other parts of the district as well, including at the Collectorate where many police personnel had been posted, as a precautionary measure in view of the violent protests witnessed in May this year demanding the closure of the plant. Thirteen people were killed in police firing on May 22-23 after the 99-day long protest by the locals against Sterlite turned violent and government properties came under attack. The protesters were demanding the closure of the plant citing pollution concerns. While the Tamil Nadu government had on May 28 ordered permanent closure of the plant in the wake of the protests, the National Green Tribunal on Saturday set it aside, allowing an appeal by the Sterlite. The state government has said it would file an appeal in the Supreme Court against the NGT order even as opposition parties attacked it for "negligent" handling of the issue. An official Monday said there was information that some religious and political outfits were trying to coordinate and organize major agitation against Sterlite. Police personnel from five neighbouring districts of Virudhungar, Dindigul, Sivaganga, Kanyakumari and Tirunelveli have been deployed in the district to meet any situation, police informed. Outsiders were being monitored to find if the locals were being instigated, they said. Meanwhile, a group of students, affiliated to the Democratic Youth Federation and the Students Federation of India, staged a protest in front of a college demanding that a resolution should be passed by the state assembly for continued closure of the Sterlite unit. A report from Coimbatore said 20 activists of "Makkal Adhikaram", a fringe outfit, were arrested when they attempted to stage a demonstration condemning the NGT order.

Security tightened around Sterlite plant amid reports of fresh protest by college students

India lodges formal protest against Pakistan

Unprecedented scenes of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/massive-anti-pakistan-protests-breaks-out-across-gilgit-baltistan-against-illegal-taxation-24492">anti-Pakistan sentiment</a> swept across the illegally occupied territories of Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir where locals gathered in thousands to protest against the seven-decades of subjugation of Islamabad.

While expressing anger over exploitation of their land and resources, people demanded an absolute freedom from the clutches of Pakistan.

Leaders urged the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-pakistan-protests-across-pok-to-mark-1947-invasion-22724">protesters</a> to ramp up their peaceful campaigns citing Pakistan will soon have the authority over all their prerogatives with locals reeling under abject poverty and depravity.

Shafqat Inqalabi, the leader of Karakoram National Movement said, "I just want to ask as to which freedom you will ask for when your water and electricity will be owned by someone else. What will you do when mountains of Gilgit will be given to Pathans and Punjabis? What are we going to with the freedom that will come after the water of Neelum-Jhelum comes under their control and they will have a complete authority over the resources and equipment of Bhasha?"

Suppressed for seven decades, the people of PoK have not only been denied basic rights but are also forced to lead their lives on terms dictated by Islamabad`s political puppets in the region.

The protesting leader accused that Pakistan is hell-bent on destroying their identity and has been propagating a narrative that suits its oppressive agenda in the region.

Another Nationalist leader, Sardar Ahmad stated that Pakistan lies about its own history and has denied the history of Kashmir.

"Pakistan is being taught the book `Mutala-e-Pakistan` which is full of lies. The book is full of misinformation. Pakistan lies about its own history. The history which is taught to our children carries the narrative of rulers and politicians of Pakistan and not the narrative of locals. The history of Kashmir is banned," Ahmad stated.

Thousands of people gathered in Hunza valley to protest against the intermittent and hours-long power cuts that have made the lives of the locals miserable.

Lamenting the novercal treatment meted out to them by the authorities, locals asserted that hefty bills were being charged from them for limited hours of power supply with students and women who required the energy most are taking the toll of the mistreatment.

Singer Abida Khanum also participated in the protest saying, "Today, we have gathered here because Hunza has no electricity for days now. It is said that Hunza is a developed region but we, the local citizens know the fact, and we know what is going behind the bushes."

She further asserted that the people of Hunza valley have been deprived of basic human rights as well as constitutional rights by the government of Pakistan.

"We are not getting our basic rights here, we are not getting constitutional rights and we are not getting all other rights too. There is an acute shortage of water and electricity and all those people who are sitting at higher constitutional positions have everything for them; they have generators. It is an incompetent and a puppet administration. Everybody, especially the students and women are only suffering," Khanum said.

The region, which was forcefully occupied more than seven decades ago by Pakistan, has still not been given any recognition or constitutional status.

It continues to suffer a step motherly treatment. People demanding their rights are more than often subjected to inhumane treatment with their voices getting muzzled with brute force.&nbsp;

Unprecedented scenes of anti-Pakistan sentiment swept across the illegally occupied territories of Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir where locals gathered in thousands to protest against the seven-decades of subjugation of Islamabad.

Unprecedented scenes of anti-Pakistan sentiment swept across the illegally occupied territories of Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir where locals gathered in thousands to protest against the seven-decades of subjugation of Islamabad. While expressing anger over exploitation of their land and resources, people demanded an absolute freedom from the clutches of Pakistan. Leaders urged the protesters to ramp up their peaceful campaigns citing Pakistan will soon have the authority over all their prerogatives with locals reeling under abject poverty and depravity. Shafqat Inqalabi, the leader of Karakoram National Movement said, "I just want to ask as to which freedom you will ask for when your water and electricity will be owned by someone else. What will you do when mountains of Gilgit will be given to Pathans and Punjabis? What are we going to with the freedom that will come after the water of Neelum-Jhelum comes under their control and they will have a complete authority over the resources and equipment of Bhasha?" Suppressed for seven decades, the people of PoK have not only been denied basic rights but are also forced to lead their lives on terms dictated by Islamabad`s political puppets in the region. The protesting leader accused that Pakistan is hell-bent on destroying their identity and has been propagating a narrative that suits its oppressive agenda in the region. Another Nationalist leader, Sardar Ahmad stated that Pakistan lies about its own history and has denied the history of Kashmir. "Pakistan is being taught the book `Mutala-e-Pakistan` which is full of lies. The book is full of misinformation. Pakistan lies about its own history. The history which is taught to our children carries the narrative of rulers and politicians of Pakistan and not the narrative of locals. The history of Kashmir is banned," Ahmad stated. Thousands of people gathered in Hunza valley to protest against the intermittent and hours-long power cuts that have made the lives of the locals miserable. Lamenting the novercal treatment meted out to them by the authorities, locals asserted that hefty bills were being charged from them for limited hours of power supply with students and women who required the energy most are taking the toll of the mistreatment. Singer Abida Khanum also participated in the protest saying, "Today, we have gathered here because Hunza has no electricity for days now. It is said that Hunza is a developed region but we, the local citizens know the fact, and we know what is going behind the bushes." She further asserted that the people of Hunza valley have been deprived of basic human rights as well as constitutional rights by the government of Pakistan. "We are not getting our basic rights here, we are not getting constitutional rights and we are not getting all other rights too. There is an acute shortage of water and electricity and all those people who are sitting at higher constitutional positions have everything for them; they have generators. It is an incompetent and a puppet administration. Everybody, especially the students and women are only suffering," Khanum said. The region, which was forcefully occupied more than seven decades ago by Pakistan, has still not been given any recognition or constitutional status. It continues to suffer a step motherly treatment. People demanding their rights are more than often subjected to inhumane treatment with their voices getting muzzled with brute force.

Anti-Pakistan protests erupt in PoK, protesters demand basic rights

Thousands of farmers from across the country converged Thursday at the historic Ramlila Ground after journeys that took some as long as 36 hours to complete to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

They are spending the night at the ground before marching to Parliament on Friday.&nbsp;

Kartar Singh, 50, a sugarcane farmer from Sambal district, Uttar Pradesh, is anxious about the march on Friday and cannot sleep, but he's not complaining.

"We have not come here to sleep. Farmers have converged in Delhi to remind the Union government that the party leading it had made promises of waiving off loans in its manifesto. And, its been four and a half years since they came to power," he said, with an edge of anger in his voice.

Singh, a father of two sons is from Fatehpur Sarai village and, his younger son (22 years) has taken the field work while he is away.

"My wife and children have told me, that I should fight and stay even for a week in Delhi, if needed," he told PTI.

Inside the tents, farmers, both men and women, from all parts of India try to sleep in a chilly night, while many sat huddled together, discussing the next strategy and family issues.

But, a group of volunteers, belonging to the welfare organisation 'Khudai Khidmatgar' are trying to offer some comfort to these wearied farmers in the cold weather.

Shahjeb Jamal, a civil engineering student at Jamia Islamia and a volunteer with the group is lugging around a steel container and a hands out paper cups to farmers as they huddle around.

"Our organisation's philosophy as envisioned by its founder Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, is service and public harmony, and so we are here. We Stand with the farmers," he said.

Jamal said Friday morning another batch of volunteers would be coming to offer tea and some breakfast to them.

A group of 25-30 doctors also offered medical aid till about 11 pm, some of them took off from work to volunteer.

Rashid, a junior resident at AIIMS was among the doctor's volunteers who attended to people till night.

"I took an off today from work, as I had to be here. They feed us, and we are not doing any favour by helping them, we are serving them," he told PTI.

Doctors also came from Aligarh Muslim university and Rohtak and Chandigarh and other Delhi hospitals to assist farmers, many of whom complained of body ache as they had travelled long distance.

"One person had fainted, so, after first aid, we sent him to LNJP Hospital," said Mahtab Alam, a doctor at a Delhi government hospital.

The historic ground, known for hosting big political events over the years, resonated with slogans like 'Ayodhya nahi, karz maafi chahiye' earlier in the day.&nbsp; 
Now, many are waiting for the crack of dawn, for start of a new day, filled with unwavering hope.&nbsp;

Thousands of farmers from across the country converged Thursday at the historic Ramlila Ground after journeys that took some as long as 36 hours to complete to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

Thousands of farmers from across the country converged Thursday at the historic Ramlila Ground after journeys that took some as long as 36 hours to complete to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce. They are spending the night at the ground before marching to Parliament on Friday. Kartar Singh, 50, a sugarcane farmer from Sambal district, Uttar Pradesh, is anxious about the march on Friday and cannot sleep, but he's not complaining. "We have not come here to sleep. Farmers have converged in Delhi to remind the Union government that the party leading it had made promises of waiving off loans in its manifesto. And, its been four and a half years since they came to power," he said, with an edge of anger in his voice. Singh, a father of two sons is from Fatehpur Sarai village and, his younger son (22 years) has taken the field work while he is away. "My wife and children have told me, that I should fight and stay even for a week in Delhi, if needed," he told PTI. Inside the tents, farmers, both men and women, from all parts of India try to sleep in a chilly night, while many sat huddled together, discussing the next strategy and family issues. But, a group of volunteers, belonging to the welfare organisation 'Khudai Khidmatgar' are trying to offer some comfort to these wearied farmers in the cold weather. Shahjeb Jamal, a civil engineering student at Jamia Islamia and a volunteer with the group is lugging around a steel container and a hands out paper cups to farmers as they huddle around. "Our organisation's philosophy as envisioned by its founder Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, is service and public harmony, and so we are here. We Stand with the farmers," he said. Jamal said Friday morning another batch of volunteers would be coming to offer tea and some breakfast to them. A group of 25-30 doctors also offered medical aid till about 11 pm, some of them took off from work to volunteer. Rashid, a junior resident at AIIMS was among the doctor's volunteers who attended to people till night. "I took an off today from work, as I had to be here. They feed us, and we are not doing any favour by helping them, we are serving them," he told PTI. Doctors also came from Aligarh Muslim university and Rohtak and Chandigarh and other Delhi hospitals to assist farmers, many of whom complained of body ache as they had travelled long distance. "One person had fainted, so, after first aid, we sent him to LNJP Hospital," said Mahtab Alam, a doctor at a Delhi government hospital. The historic ground, known for hosting big political events over the years, resonated with slogans like 'Ayodhya nahi, karz maafi chahiye' earlier in the day. Now, many are waiting for the crack of dawn, for start of a new day, filled with unwavering hope.

Farmers brave chilly night at Ramlila Maidan, 'Khudai Khidmatgaars' offer comfort

Traffic in central and Lutyens' Delhi went into a tizzy on Friday as thousands of farmers, who have been camping at the Ramlila ground since Thursday, began their <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-begin-march-towards-parliament-from-ramlila-maidan-3500-cops-deployed-180376">march to Parliament</a> amid heavy policy deployment, to press for their various demands including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

Traffic was affected on the Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, on the stretch near Guru Nanak Eye hospital, Maharaja Ranjit Singh flyover, Barakhamba Chowk and Janpath on Friday morning. Commuters were advised to avoid these routes.

Around 1,000 traffic police personnel have been deployed between Ramlila Maidan and Parliament to ensure that commuters do not face inconvenience.

"Due to this march, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, Ferozshah Road, Janpath, Mandir Marg, Panchkuian Marg, Ashoka Road, Jai Singh Marg and inner and outer circles of Connaught Place will be affected. Our senior traffic officials, along with other traffic personnel, are managing traffic," a senior traffic police official said.

Citizens were advised to follow the Delhi Traffic Police Facebook page, Twitter handle, WhatsApp and the traffic helpline for live updates.

Over 3,500 police personnel have also been deployed on the route of the march and special arrangements have been made in Central and New Delhi police districts.

As many as 850 police personnel, up to the rank of sub-inspectors, have been deployed in the Central district. They have been augmented by the presence of 12 police companies, including two of women, each comprising 75-80 personnel, a police official said.

In New Delhi district, 346 police personnel, up to the rank of sub-inspectors, have been deployed and 600 personnel from other districts will also help them, the official said.

Farmers from different parts of the country, including Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh converged at the Ramlila ground on Thursday.

Banded under the All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee (AIKSCC), which claims to be an umbrella body of 207 organisations of farmers and agricultural workers, many farmers arrived in the city on Thursday, on trains, buses and other modes of transport.

Traffic in central and Lutyens' Delhi went into a tizzy on Friday as thousands of farmers, who have been camping at the Ramlila ground since Thursday, began their march to Parliament amid heavy policy deployment, to press for their various demands including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

Traffic in central and Lutyens' Delhi went into a tizzy on Friday as thousands of farmers, who have been camping at the Ramlila ground since Thursday, began their march to Parliament amid heavy policy deployment, to press for their various demands including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce. Traffic was affected on the Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, on the stretch near Guru Nanak Eye hospital, Maharaja Ranjit Singh flyover, Barakhamba Chowk and Janpath on Friday morning. Commuters were advised to avoid these routes. Around 1,000 traffic police personnel have been deployed between Ramlila Maidan and Parliament to ensure that commuters do not face inconvenience. "Due to this march, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, Ferozshah Road, Janpath, Mandir Marg, Panchkuian Marg, Ashoka Road, Jai Singh Marg and inner and outer circles of Connaught Place will be affected. Our senior traffic officials, along with other traffic personnel, are managing traffic," a senior traffic police official said. Citizens were advised to follow the Delhi Traffic Police Facebook page, Twitter handle, WhatsApp and the traffic helpline for live updates. Over 3,500 police personnel have also been deployed on the route of the march and special arrangements have been made in Central and New Delhi police districts. As many as 850 police personnel, up to the rank of sub-inspectors, have been deployed in the Central district. They have been augmented by the presence of 12 police companies, including two of women, each comprising 75-80 personnel, a police official said. In New Delhi district, 346 police personnel, up to the rank of sub-inspectors, have been deployed and 600 personnel from other districts will also help them, the official said. Farmers from different parts of the country, including Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh converged at the Ramlila ground on Thursday. Banded under the All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee (AIKSCC), which claims to be an umbrella body of 207 organisations of farmers and agricultural workers, many farmers arrived in the city on Thursday, on trains, buses and other modes of transport.

Farmers' march to Parliament throws traffic in tizzy in central, Lutyens' Delhi

Protesters march as Buenos Aires prepares to host G20 Summit

When the Christian Democrats opened talks on teaming up with the opposition Labour Party to bring down the Conservative-led government, Prime Minister Erna Solberg intervened, offering to discuss tightening abortion rules.

The argument helped persuade rank-and-file members of the socially conservative, Lutheran-based party to vote for talks to join the ruling coalition, potentially securing Solberg a majority in parliament until the next election in 2021.

The Christian Democrats want further restrictions or an end to terminations after the twelfth week of pregnancy, potentially reining in exemptions for genetic conditions or injuries.

The party also wants to make it more difficult, or stop altogether, selective abortions in multi-foetal pregnancies.

"It is discriminating to select on the basis of having different skills ... Children with Down syndrome should have the same legal rights as other children," Kjell Ingolf Ropstad, deputy leader of the Christian Democrats, told public broadcaster NRK earlier this month.

Since 1978, a termination after 12 weeks must be authorised by a panel of two hospital doctors. If the panel refuses, the decision can be appealed.

In an effort to quell a backlash within her own party, as well as from the opposition, Solberg said any changes to the abortion law would not undermine women's rights.

"In practice this will mean that, in future, women who seek an abortion after the twelfth week of pregnancy will as much as before have the right to have an abortion," she told parliament on Wednesday.

Some 68 percent of Norwegians are against changing the abortion law, while 16 percent are in favour, according to a poll published in daily VG on Nov. 9. The phone survey by Respons Analyse polled 1,000 participants aged 18 and over.

When the Christian Democrats opened talks on teaming up with the opposition Labour Party to bring down the Conservative-led government, Prime Minister Erna Solberg intervened, offering to discuss tightening abortion rules.

When the Christian Democrats opened talks on teaming up with the opposition Labour Party to bring down the Conservative-led government, Prime Minister Erna Solberg intervened, offering to discuss tightening abortion rules. The argument helped persuade rank-and-file members of the socially conservative, Lutheran-based party to vote for talks to join the ruling coalition, potentially securing Solberg a majority in parliament until the next election in 2021. The Christian Democrats want further restrictions or an end to terminations after the twelfth week of pregnancy, potentially reining in exemptions for genetic conditions or injuries. The party also wants to make it more difficult, or stop altogether, selective abortions in multi-foetal pregnancies. "It is discriminating to select on the basis of having different skills ... Children with Down syndrome should have the same legal rights as other children," Kjell Ingolf Ropstad, deputy leader of the Christian Democrats, told public broadcaster NRK earlier this month. Since 1978, a termination after 12 weeks must be authorised by a panel of two hospital doctors. If the panel refuses, the decision can be appealed. In an effort to quell a backlash within her own party, as well as from the opposition, Solberg said any changes to the abortion law would not undermine women's rights. "In practice this will mean that, in future, women who seek an abortion after the twelfth week of pregnancy will as much as before have the right to have an abortion," she told parliament on Wednesday. Some 68 percent of Norwegians are against changing the abortion law, while 16 percent are in favour, according to a poll published in daily VG on Nov. 9. The phone survey by Respons Analyse polled 1,000 participants aged 18 and over.

Thousands protest in Norway against restricting abortion

Bangladesh police fired rubber bullets and tear gas at a group of opposition party supporters in the capital, Dhaka, on Wednesday as tension soared weeks before a general election.

Activists of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) responded to the police action by setting fire to police vans and cars, as well as several motor-bikes, according to police and media.

"Our force was attacked without any reason. They were only trying to ease the traffic flow but suddenly they were targeted," said Masudur Rahman, a spokesman for the Dhaka Metropolitan Police.

The BNP supporters were accompanying an election candidate who was picking up election nomination papers from the party's offices in the city.

Police initially asked the group numbering more than 500 to disperse because they were creating a traffic jam but an altercation ensued and fist-fights broke out between the BNP supporters and police.

The BNP said that at least 12 of its supporters were injured. Police said at least 20 officers were hurt.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir denounced the police action as an "injustice", and part of a government plot to exclude the party from the Dec. 30 election.

General elections are invariably volatile in Bangladesh where politics has for more than two decades been dominated by the rivalry between two women leaders - Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia - both of whom have been prime minister.

Hasina, who is prime minister now, and Khaleda, leader of the BNP, are both related to former national leaders.

The BNP says a caretaker government is essential for free and fair elections as otherwise, it says Hasina's ruling Awami League will use the machinery of government to support its campaign.

The BNP is in disarray following the jailing early this year on corruption charges of Khaleda, on what the party says were trumped-up charges to keep her out of politics.

The last election, in 2014, which the BNP boycotted, was marred by deadly violence and criticised by international observers as flawed.

An alliance of opposition parties, including the BNP, said on Sunday it would contest the election despite the Awami League's rejection of its demand for a caretaker government.

Hasina’s government has won global plaudits for letting in hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees from Myanmar, but its critics have decried what they see as the prime minister's increasingly authoritarian rule.

In particular, they have attacked her for what critics regard as the government’s heavy-handed policing of student protests this year and a crackdown on free speech. 
&nbsp;

Bangladesh police fired rubber bullets and tear gas at a group of opposition party supporters in the capital, Dhaka, on Wednesday as tension soared weeks before a general election.

Bangladesh police fired rubber bullets and tear gas at a group of opposition party supporters in the capital, Dhaka, on Wednesday as tension soared weeks before a general election. Activists of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) responded to the police action by setting fire to police vans and cars, as well as several motor-bikes, according to police and media. "Our force was attacked without any reason. They were only trying to ease the traffic flow but suddenly they were targeted," said Masudur Rahman, a spokesman for the Dhaka Metropolitan Police. The BNP supporters were accompanying an election candidate who was picking up election nomination papers from the party's offices in the city. Police initially asked the group numbering more than 500 to disperse because they were creating a traffic jam but an altercation ensued and fist-fights broke out between the BNP supporters and police. The BNP said that at least 12 of its supporters were injured. Police said at least 20 officers were hurt. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir denounced the police action as an "injustice", and part of a government plot to exclude the party from the Dec. 30 election. General elections are invariably volatile in Bangladesh where politics has for more than two decades been dominated by the rivalry between two women leaders - Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia - both of whom have been prime minister. Hasina, who is prime minister now, and Khaleda, leader of the BNP, are both related to former national leaders. The BNP says a caretaker government is essential for free and fair elections as otherwise, it says Hasina's ruling Awami League will use the machinery of government to support its campaign. The BNP is in disarray following the jailing early this year on corruption charges of Khaleda, on what the party says were trumped-up charges to keep her out of politics. The last election, in 2014, which the BNP boycotted, was marred by deadly violence and criticised by international observers as flawed. An alliance of opposition parties, including the BNP, said on Sunday it would contest the election despite the Awami League's rejection of its demand for a caretaker government. Hasina’s government has won global plaudits for letting in hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees from Myanmar, but its critics have decried what they see as the prime minister's increasingly authoritarian rule. In particular, they have attacked her for what critics regard as the government’s heavy-handed policing of student protests this year and a crackdown on free speech.

Bangladesh police fire rubber bullets, tear gas to disperse opposition protest

A photojournalist was injured in clashes at Kerala's Sabarimala temple on Tuesday after a woman devotee, suspected to be of menstrual age, tried to enter the temple.&nbsp;

As per news agency ANI, the injured person has been identified as Amrita TV cameraperson Biju. &nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Kerala: Amrita TV cameraman Biju, injured during protests at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a> over the entry of a woman devotee <a href="https://t.co/ZbOqsbXS6u">pic.twitter.com/ZbOqsbXS6u</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1059633073686487040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The violence only stopped when the police confirmed that she is 52-years-old and allowed her to visit the shrine. She later performed prayers at the temple under police protection.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a>: Lalitha (Pic 1: in the centre), a 52-year-old woman devotee from Thrissur, whose entry to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalTemple</a> was opposed by protesters, offered prayers at the temple under police protection. She had come along with her family. <a href="https://t.co/RdJeWflhk4">pic.twitter.com/RdJeWflhk4</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1059637779150319616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Sabarimala shrine <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-turns-police-fortress-as-ayyappa-temple-is-set-to-open-for-special-puja-175656">opened yesterday</a> for the second time in three weeks for a two-day special puja amid unprecedented security over fear of protests by those opposing the Supreme Court's order allowing women of all age groups into the temple.

Kerala police has deployed nearly two thousand three hundred police personnel over fears that those opposing the supreme court's order allowing women of all age groups into the temple may stage protests.

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Kerala: Visuals of protests from Sannidhaman in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a> <a href="https://t.co/XN9wODeIgW">pic.twitter.com/XN9wODeIgW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1059630089904836608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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However, the security arrangements have not gone down well with the devotees and right-wing activists who protested at several places against the restrictions at Sabarimala, considered the sacred grove of Lord Ayyappa, a celibate.

A photojournalist was injured in clashes at Kerala's Sabarimala temple on Tuesday after a woman devotee, suspected to be of menstrual age, tried to enter the temple.

A photojournalist was injured in clashes at Kerala's Sabarimala temple on Tuesday after a woman devotee, suspected to be of menstrual age, tried to enter the temple. As per news agency ANI, the injured person has been identified as Amrita TV cameraperson Biju. Kerala: Amrita TV cameraman Biju, injured during protests at #SabarimalaTemple over the entry of a woman devotee pic.twitter.com/ZbOqsbXS6u — ANI (@ANI) November 6, 2018 × The violence only stopped when the police confirmed that she is 52-years-old and allowed her to visit the shrine. She later performed prayers at the temple under police protection. #Kerala: Lalitha (Pic 1: in the centre), a 52-year-old woman devotee from Thrissur, whose entry to #SabarimalTemple was opposed by protesters, offered prayers at the temple under police protection. She had come along with her family. pic.twitter.com/RdJeWflhk4 — ANI (@ANI) November 6, 2018 × The Sabarimala shrine opened yesterday for the second time in three weeks for a two-day special puja amid unprecedented security over fear of protests by those opposing the Supreme Court's order allowing women of all age groups into the temple. Kerala police has deployed nearly two thousand three hundred police personnel over fears that those opposing the supreme court's order allowing women of all age groups into the temple may stage protests. Kerala: Visuals of protests from Sannidhaman in #SabarimalaTemple pic.twitter.com/XN9wODeIgW — ANI (@ANI) November 6, 2018 × However, the security arrangements have not gone down well with the devotees and right-wing activists who protested at several places against the restrictions at Sabarimala, considered the sacred grove of Lord Ayyappa, a celibate.

Sabarimala: 1 injured in clashes after woman, thought to be of menstrual age, tries to enter temple

Asia Bibi's husband&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asia-bibis-husband-calls-for-her-protection-hails-courts-order-as-very-courageous-175324">Ashiq Masih</a>&nbsp;pleaded Saturday for asylum in the UK, US or Canada, news reports Sunday said.

Masih said they were in danger in Pakistan and that threats had been made to Asia's life. Asia was this week acquitted by Pakistan's Supreme Court of insulting the Prophet Muhammad.&nbsp;

Asia is Christian.&nbsp;

"The situation is dangerous for Asia. I feel that her life is not secure," AFP had earlier quoted Masih as saying. "So I appeal to government to enhance Asia's security in jail".

Asia, 47, has spent eight years on death row. She was accused&nbsp;of insulting the Prophet Muhammad in 2009, after a dispute with fellow workers, and convicted by a lower court in 2010.&nbsp;

The accusation of blasphemy had broken out over a drink of water. Asia's fellow workers — they had been harvesting fruit — said she should not have drunk from a common bucket and that she had defiled the water because she was Christian.&nbsp;

They added that she should convert to Islam.&nbsp;

France and Spain have offered her asylum, while the former bishop of Rochester, Michael Nazir-Ali, who is a Christian born in Pakistan, said Bibi should be granted asylum in the UK, Skynews reported.

The protesters, however, ended their action Friday night after the government reached a controversial deal to put Bibi on the no-fly list and saying it would not object to an appeal against the verdict, which was filed earlier in the Supreme Court.

"We have requested the Supreme Court to put Asia Bibi on the Exit Control List as soon as possible so that she could not fly out of the country," Ghulam Mustafa Chaudhry, the lawyer of Qari Salam who filed the case against Bibi, told AFP.

"We fear that she would be flown out of the country so we have requested the court for an early hearing of the case," he said, adding that he would "exploit all legal remedies to make sure Asia Bibi is hanged according to the law".

Bibi's lawyer Saif-ul-Mulook and Pakistani media criticised the government for caving in to the Islamist hardliners after Prime Minister Imran Khan had earlier appeared to stand up to them following the court verdict.

Meanwhile, Saif-ul-Mulook, who saved Bibi from the gallows <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asia-bibis-lawyer-leaves-pakistan-citing-threats-to-his-life-175254">left the country</a> on Saturday, saying his life was under threat.

Blasphemy is a massively inflammatory charge in Muslim-majority Pakistan, where even unproven allegations of insulting Islam and its Prophet Mohammed can provoke death at the hands of vigilantes. 
&nbsp;

Asia Bibi's husband Ashiq Masih pleaded Saturday for asylum in the UK, US or Canada, news reports Sunday said. Masih said they were in danger in Pakistan and that threats had been made to Asia's life.

Asia Bibi's husband Ashiq Masih pleaded Saturday for asylum in the UK, US or Canada, news reports Sunday said. Masih said they were in danger in Pakistan and that threats had been made to Asia's life. Asia was this week acquitted by Pakistan's Supreme Court of insulting the Prophet Muhammad. Asia is Christian. "The situation is dangerous for Asia. I feel that her life is not secure," AFP had earlier quoted Masih as saying. "So I appeal to government to enhance Asia's security in jail". Asia, 47, has spent eight years on death row. She was accused of insulting the Prophet Muhammad in 2009, after a dispute with fellow workers, and convicted by a lower court in 2010. The accusation of blasphemy had broken out over a drink of water. Asia's fellow workers — they had been harvesting fruit — said she should not have drunk from a common bucket and that she had defiled the water because she was Christian. They added that she should convert to Islam. France and Spain have offered her asylum, while the former bishop of Rochester, Michael Nazir-Ali, who is a Christian born in Pakistan, said Bibi should be granted asylum in the UK, Skynews reported. The protesters, however, ended their action Friday night after the government reached a controversial deal to put Bibi on the no-fly list and saying it would not object to an appeal against the verdict, which was filed earlier in the Supreme Court. "We have requested the Supreme Court to put Asia Bibi on the Exit Control List as soon as possible so that she could not fly out of the country," Ghulam Mustafa Chaudhry, the lawyer of Qari Salam who filed the case against Bibi, told AFP. "We fear that she would be flown out of the country so we have requested the court for an early hearing of the case," he said, adding that he would "exploit all legal remedies to make sure Asia Bibi is hanged according to the law". Bibi's lawyer Saif-ul-Mulook and Pakistani media criticised the government for caving in to the Islamist hardliners after Prime Minister Imran Khan had earlier appeared to stand up to them following the court verdict. Meanwhile, Saif-ul-Mulook, who saved Bibi from the gallows left the country on Saturday, saying his life was under threat. Blasphemy is a massively inflammatory charge in Muslim-majority Pakistan, where even unproven allegations of insulting Islam and its Prophet Mohammed can provoke death at the hands of vigilantes.

Asia Bibi's husband asks for asylum in UK, US or Canada

Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) chief Khadim Rizvi and senior party leader Afzal Qadri were among the 500 people booked on Saturday for rioting and disrupting normal life in various parts of Lahore.

The police said that 11 cases were registered against Rizvi, Qadri and others for blocking arterial routes and disrupting peace, Geo News reported.

Two cases were also booked against protestors in the nation`s capital Islamabad on charges of vandalising public property.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Interior Ministry, in a statement, said that it would take strict action against the demonstrators involved in rioting and disrupting normal life in various parts of the country.

On October 31, mass protests began after the Pakistan Supreme Court announced its verdict acquitting Asia Bibi, a Christian woman in a blasphemy case.

The demonstrations, led by TLP and other religious parties, blocked roads and vandalised public property in various parts of the country.

A three-judge special bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Saqib Nisar, Justice Asif Saeed Khosa and Justice Mazhar Alam Khan Miankhel heard Asia`s 2014 appeal against her conviction and death sentence and overturned the ruling in favour of her on October 31.

After few days of rejecting reports of not putting Asia on the Exit Control List (ECL), the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government succumbed to pressure and reached an agreement with the TLP on Friday for taking legal actions to not allow Asia and her family to leave the country.

Moreover, the government assured the people that a probe will be initiated to redress any deaths that may have occurred during the protests against the verdict.

The TLP also apologised to the people for hurting their sentiments or causing inconvenience to the citizens.

Asia was convicted and sentenced to death in 2010 for allegedly insulting Islam during an argument with three Muslim women.&nbsp;

Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) chief Khadim Rizvi and senior party leader Afzal Qadri were among the 500 people booked on Saturday for rioting and disrupting normal life in various parts of Lahore.

Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) chief Khadim Rizvi and senior party leader Afzal Qadri were among the 500 people booked on Saturday for rioting and disrupting normal life in various parts of Lahore. The police said that 11 cases were registered against Rizvi, Qadri and others for blocking arterial routes and disrupting peace, Geo News reported. Two cases were also booked against protestors in the nation`s capital Islamabad on charges of vandalising public property. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Interior Ministry, in a statement, said that it would take strict action against the demonstrators involved in rioting and disrupting normal life in various parts of the country. On October 31, mass protests began after the Pakistan Supreme Court announced its verdict acquitting Asia Bibi, a Christian woman in a blasphemy case. The demonstrations, led by TLP and other religious parties, blocked roads and vandalised public property in various parts of the country. A three-judge special bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Saqib Nisar, Justice Asif Saeed Khosa and Justice Mazhar Alam Khan Miankhel heard Asia`s 2014 appeal against her conviction and death sentence and overturned the ruling in favour of her on October 31. After few days of rejecting reports of not putting Asia on the Exit Control List (ECL), the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government succumbed to pressure and reached an agreement with the TLP on Friday for taking legal actions to not allow Asia and her family to leave the country. Moreover, the government assured the people that a probe will be initiated to redress any deaths that may have occurred during the protests against the verdict. The TLP also apologised to the people for hurting their sentiments or causing inconvenience to the citizens. Asia was convicted and sentenced to death in 2010 for allegedly insulting Islam during an argument with three Muslim women.

Asia Bibi verdict protests: TLP chief, senior leader booked for rioting

Attempts to win over MP defectors intensified in Sri Lanka's constitutional crisis Saturday amid growing pressure to let the suspended parliament hold a vote on the two rivals who each claim to be prime minister.

Ousted premier Ranil Wickremesinghe has refused to accept his surprise sacking by President Maithripala Sirisena, who named former strongman president Mahinda Rajapakse in his place.

Rajapakse has eaten into Wickremesinghe's majority amid warnings from pro-democracy and anti-corruption groups about the tactics being used.

A member of Wickremesinghe's United National Party, S.B. Nawinna, defected on Friday night and was rewarded with the cultural affairs portfolio in Rajapakse's government.

A deputy from a Tamil party supporting Wickremesinghe also switched sides and was made a deputy minister.

"We are expecting a few more defections on Saturday," a source close to President Sirisena said.

Wickremesinghe has remained in the official prime minister's residence since his sacking on October 26.

He claims to have majority support in the 225-member parliament but is still seeking to woo MPs from the Sirisena-Rajapakse camp, his aides said.

According to latest counts, Wickremesinghe has 103 MPs while Rajapakse and Sirisena together have 100. Most of the 22 remaining MPs are expected to back Wickremesinghe, observers said.

Huge amounts are reportedly being offered to defectors.

A UNP stalwart, Range Bandara, said this week he was offered US $2.8 million to cross over and support Rajapakse.

A pro-democracy movement urged MPs not to sell their votes and undermine the will of the people.

"We appeal to you not to allow parliament to be put up for sale. You have a responsibility to prevent Sri Lanka from being plunged further into a moral and ethical political abyss," the Movement for Democracy said.

The Transparency International anti-graft watchdog highlighted the country's Bribery Act which made accepting and offering inducements a jailable offence.

The president suspended parliament for 20 days in a move to forestall a parliamentary vote that would have gone against his choice for prime minister.

But parliament speaker Karu Jayasuriya has called a meeting for next Wednesday. The president has ordered parliament closed until November 16.

"We believe that the proroguing of parliament is to gain time to buy over sufficient cross overs," the Movement for Democracy said.

It expressed alarm at ministerial positions being given for&nbsp;changing political loyalties. "We demand a stop to this culture of buying and selling votes," the group said.

The minority Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) party, which has seven lawmakers, said its members had also rejected offers to join the Sirisena-Rajapakse camp.

SLMC leader Rauff Hakeem said the political horse-trading made an early parliament meeting even more important.

Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres joined&nbsp;international calls for Sirisena to end the suspension of parliament.

The UN chief told Sirisena he was following the crisis in Sri Lanka "with concern," and "urged the president to revert to parliamentary procedures and allow the parliament to vote as soon as possible," a UN statement said.

Attempts to win over MP defectors intensified in Sri Lanka's constitutional crisis Saturday amid growing pressure to let the suspended parliament hold a vote on the two rivals who each claim to be prime minister.

Attempts to win over MP defectors intensified in Sri Lanka's constitutional crisis Saturday amid growing pressure to let the suspended parliament hold a vote on the two rivals who each claim to be prime minister. Ousted premier Ranil Wickremesinghe has refused to accept his surprise sacking by President Maithripala Sirisena, who named former strongman president Mahinda Rajapakse in his place. Rajapakse has eaten into Wickremesinghe's majority amid warnings from pro-democracy and anti-corruption groups about the tactics being used. A member of Wickremesinghe's United National Party, S.B. Nawinna, defected on Friday night and was rewarded with the cultural affairs portfolio in Rajapakse's government. A deputy from a Tamil party supporting Wickremesinghe also switched sides and was made a deputy minister. "We are expecting a few more defections on Saturday," a source close to President Sirisena said. Wickremesinghe has remained in the official prime minister's residence since his sacking on October 26. He claims to have majority support in the 225-member parliament but is still seeking to woo MPs from the Sirisena-Rajapakse camp, his aides said. According to latest counts, Wickremesinghe has 103 MPs while Rajapakse and Sirisena together have 100. Most of the 22 remaining MPs are expected to back Wickremesinghe, observers said. Huge amounts are reportedly being offered to defectors. A UNP stalwart, Range Bandara, said this week he was offered US $2.8 million to cross over and support Rajapakse. A pro-democracy movement urged MPs not to sell their votes and undermine the will of the people. "We appeal to you not to allow parliament to be put up for sale. You have a responsibility to prevent Sri Lanka from being plunged further into a moral and ethical political abyss," the Movement for Democracy said. The Transparency International anti-graft watchdog highlighted the country's Bribery Act which made accepting and offering inducements a jailable offence. The president suspended parliament for 20 days in a move to forestall a parliamentary vote that would have gone against his choice for prime minister. But parliament speaker Karu Jayasuriya has called a meeting for next Wednesday. The president has ordered parliament closed until November 16. "We believe that the proroguing of parliament is to gain time to buy over sufficient cross overs," the Movement for Democracy said. It expressed alarm at ministerial positions being given for changing political loyalties. "We demand a stop to this culture of buying and selling votes," the group said. The minority Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) party, which has seven lawmakers, said its members had also rejected offers to join the Sirisena-Rajapakse camp. SLMC leader Rauff Hakeem said the political horse-trading made an early parliament meeting even more important. Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres joined international calls for Sirisena to end the suspension of parliament. The UN chief told Sirisena he was following the crisis in Sri Lanka "with concern," and "urged the president to revert to parliamentary procedures and allow the parliament to vote as soon as possible," a UN statement said.

Sri Lanka rivals target defectors to end political crisis

BJP workers Tuesday began a dawn-to-dusk hunger strike in front of Kerala DGP's office here, intensifying its agitation against the CPI(M)-led LDF government's crackdown on Sabarimala protesters.&nbsp;

BJP cadres also took out marches to offices of the Superintendents of Police in all district headquarters to condemn the government for arresting the agitators.

Addressing party workers here, BJP state president P S Sreedharan Pillai alleged the ruling CPI(M) was on the road to "liquidation" and the party's graph was coming down.

Former Union minister and party's lone MLA in the state assembly, O Rajagopal, was also present.

Veteran Marxist leader M M Lawrence's grandson was among the protesters.&nbsp;

Over 3,500 people have so far been arrested and 529 cases registered in connection with the protests and demonstrations against the implementation of the Supreme court verdict allowing women of all age groups into the Lord Ayyappa temple.

BJP national president Amit Shah, who was in Kerala on October 27 had extended full support to the devotees protesting the entry of women of all ages into the shrine.&nbsp;

The saffron party had announced that it would be taking out a 'Rath Yatra' from Kasaragod to Pathnamthitta, where the Sabarimala temple is located, from November 8 to 13 to "save the customs and traditions" of the hill shrine.

The temple had witnessed high drama after around a dozen women in the 10-50 age group were prevented by protesting devotees from entering it after the temple doors were opened for monthly pujas between October 17 and 22.

The Lord Ayyappa temple's three month-long pilgrim season is commencing from November 17 and the state government has reiterated that all devotees would be allowed to offer prayers at the shrine.

The temple will also open for a day on November 5 for a special pooja.&nbsp;

BJP workers Tuesday began a dawn-to-dusk hunger strike in front of Kerala DGP's office here, intensifying its agitation against the CPI(M)-led LDF government's crackdown on Sabarimala protesters.

BJP workers Tuesday began a dawn-to-dusk hunger strike in front of Kerala DGP's office here, intensifying its agitation against the CPI(M)-led LDF government's crackdown on Sabarimala protesters. BJP cadres also took out marches to offices of the Superintendents of Police in all district headquarters to condemn the government for arresting the agitators. Addressing party workers here, BJP state president P S Sreedharan Pillai alleged the ruling CPI(M) was on the road to "liquidation" and the party's graph was coming down. Former Union minister and party's lone MLA in the state assembly, O Rajagopal, was also present. Veteran Marxist leader M M Lawrence's grandson was among the protesters. Over 3,500 people have so far been arrested and 529 cases registered in connection with the protests and demonstrations against the implementation of the Supreme court verdict allowing women of all age groups into the Lord Ayyappa temple. BJP national president Amit Shah, who was in Kerala on October 27 had extended full support to the devotees protesting the entry of women of all ages into the shrine. The saffron party had announced that it would be taking out a 'Rath Yatra' from Kasaragod to Pathnamthitta, where the Sabarimala temple is located, from November 8 to 13 to "save the customs and traditions" of the hill shrine. The temple had witnessed high drama after around a dozen women in the 10-50 age group were prevented by protesting devotees from entering it after the temple doors were opened for monthly pujas between October 17 and 22. The Lord Ayyappa temple's three month-long pilgrim season is commencing from November 17 and the state government has reiterated that all devotees would be allowed to offer prayers at the shrine. The temple will also open for a day on November 5 for a special pooja.

BJP begins dawn-to-dusk hunger strike over arrest of Sabarimala protesters

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday led a protest march to demand the reinstatement of CBI Director Alok Verma, who has been divested of his powers and sent on leave, and an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Congress has termed the move against Verma "illegal and unconstitutional".&nbsp;

Top Congress leaders took part in the march that culminated in a demonstration outside the CBI headquarters. Leaders of other parties also joined the protest as a mark of solidarity.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Congress workers stage protest against the removal of CBI Chief Alok Verma in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a>. <a href="https://t.co/BRk8Vvwvgv">pic.twitter.com/BRk8Vvwvgv</a>
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Loktantrik Janata Dal leader Sharad Yadav, CPI leader D Raja and TMC's Nadimul Haque joined the Congress protest that started from outside Dayal Singh College on Lodhi Road.&nbsp;

Gandhi got on to a truck in front of the police barricades put up outside the CBI headquarters to prevent the protesters from reaching the building.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Congress President Rahul Gandhi and Ashok Gehlot lead the protest march to CBI HQ against the removal of CBI Chief Alok Verma. <a href="https://t.co/7FNkhoWQCb">pic.twitter.com/7FNkhoWQCb</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1055716852268257281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday led a protest march to demand the reinstatement of CBI Director Alok Verma, who has been divested of his powers and sent on leave, and an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday led a protest march to demand the reinstatement of CBI Director Alok Verma, who has been divested of his powers and sent on leave, and an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Congress has termed the move against Verma "illegal and unconstitutional". Top Congress leaders took part in the march that culminated in a demonstration outside the CBI headquarters. Leaders of other parties also joined the protest as a mark of solidarity. #WATCH: Congress workers stage protest against the removal of CBI Chief Alok Verma in #Delhi. pic.twitter.com/BRk8Vvwvgv — ANI (@ANI) October 26, 2018 × Loktantrik Janata Dal leader Sharad Yadav, CPI leader D Raja and TMC's Nadimul Haque joined the Congress protest that started from outside Dayal Singh College on Lodhi Road. Gandhi got on to a truck in front of the police barricades put up outside the CBI headquarters to prevent the protesters from reaching the building. #WATCH Congress President Rahul Gandhi and Ashok Gehlot lead the protest march to CBI HQ against the removal of CBI Chief Alok Verma. pic.twitter.com/7FNkhoWQCb — ANI (@ANI) October 26, 2018 ×

Watch: Rahul leads protest march to CBI headquarters

Argentine police fired rubber bullets, tear gas and waters cannon at protesters who marched on Wednesday in front of Congress against the government's 2019 budget bill, which contains steep spending cuts aimed at erasing the country's fiscal deficit.

Thousands of activists gathered, led by teachers, social organizations and leftist groups opposed to President Mauricio Macri's austerity measures. Small clusters of protesters hurled rocks, sticks and trash at police who shot rubber bullets and used metal barriers to control the crowd.

Some protesters were seen hurling tear gas canisters back at police lines. Authorities quickly reinforced with a large group of motorcycle police who descended on the crowd.

The same riot control measures were used to push back protesters late last year when Congress approved cuts to Argentina's pension system.

Tensions are rising in Latin America's No. 3 economy, which is projected by the budget bill to contract 2.4 percent this year and 0.5 percent in 2019. Public utility subsidy cuts are forcing home heating and electricity bills higher, fueling inflation expected by the government at 42 percent this year.

The legislators began discussing the budget in a plenary session shortly before noon. Macri needs the budget to pass to maintain his economic adjustment plan and continue efforts to turn Argentina's recession-hit economy around.

As police moved to stem the violence, lawmakers inside the capitol building squabbled and argued loudly over sticking points, at times disregarding calls for order.

The budget features sharp reductions in government spending and tax increases aimed at cutting the primary fiscal deficit from a projected 2.7 percent of gross domestic product this year to zero in 2019.

Macri has committed to balancing the budget at the behest of the International Monetary Fund, which signed a $57 billion standby financing agreement with the government earlier this year. Macri went to the fund for help after market jitters about the country's increasing debt load caused a slide in the peso.

The local currency is down about 50 percent so far this year. On Wednesday it weakened 1.35 percent 37.15 to the greenback. Argentina is in the emerging markets spotlight as it prepares to host a meeting of the G20 at the end of November.

Analysts expect the budget to pass, but are cautious about the government's ability to implement austerity measures. Some economists also fear the government may relax austerity measures ahead of the 2019 presidential election for political gain.

Because Macri's "Cambiemos," or "Let's Change" party, does not hold a majority in either chamber of Congress, it negotiated with some provinces to minimize the social impact of budget cuts in exchange for votes needed to pass the bill.

"We have important support, based on an agreement signed by the president with provincial governments to ratify several measures, among them the approval of the national budget," Congressman Luciano Laspina, who is affiliated with Macri's political party, said in an interview with local station Radio Mitre.

Argentine police fired rubber bullets, tear gas and waters cannon at protesters who marched on Wednesday in front of Congress against the government's 2019 budget bill, which contains steep spending cuts aimed at erasing the country's fiscal deficit.

Argentine police fired rubber bullets, tear gas and waters cannon at protesters who marched on Wednesday in front of Congress against the government's 2019 budget bill, which contains steep spending cuts aimed at erasing the country's fiscal deficit. Thousands of activists gathered, led by teachers, social organizations and leftist groups opposed to President Mauricio Macri's austerity measures. Small clusters of protesters hurled rocks, sticks and trash at police who shot rubber bullets and used metal barriers to control the crowd. Some protesters were seen hurling tear gas canisters back at police lines. Authorities quickly reinforced with a large group of motorcycle police who descended on the crowd. The same riot control measures were used to push back protesters late last year when Congress approved cuts to Argentina's pension system. Tensions are rising in Latin America's No. 3 economy, which is projected by the budget bill to contract 2.4 percent this year and 0.5 percent in 2019. Public utility subsidy cuts are forcing home heating and electricity bills higher, fueling inflation expected by the government at 42 percent this year. The legislators began discussing the budget in a plenary session shortly before noon. Macri needs the budget to pass to maintain his economic adjustment plan and continue efforts to turn Argentina's recession-hit economy around. As police moved to stem the violence, lawmakers inside the capitol building squabbled and argued loudly over sticking points, at times disregarding calls for order. The budget features sharp reductions in government spending and tax increases aimed at cutting the primary fiscal deficit from a projected 2.7 percent of gross domestic product this year to zero in 2019. Macri has committed to balancing the budget at the behest of the International Monetary Fund, which signed a $57 billion standby financing agreement with the government earlier this year. Macri went to the fund for help after market jitters about the country's increasing debt load caused a slide in the peso. The local currency is down about 50 percent so far this year. On Wednesday it weakened 1.35 percent 37.15 to the greenback. Argentina is in the emerging markets spotlight as it prepares to host a meeting of the G20 at the end of November. Analysts expect the budget to pass, but are cautious about the government's ability to implement austerity measures. Some economists also fear the government may relax austerity measures ahead of the 2019 presidential election for political gain. Because Macri's "Cambiemos," or "Let's Change" party, does not hold a majority in either chamber of Congress, it negotiated with some provinces to minimize the social impact of budget cuts in exchange for votes needed to pass the bill. "We have important support, based on an agreement signed by the president with provincial governments to ratify several measures, among them the approval of the national budget," Congressman Luciano Laspina, who is affiliated with Macri's political party, said in an interview with local station Radio Mitre.

Argentine police fire rubber bullets at anti-austerity protesters

A day after protests and violence against the entry of women of menstruating age at the Sabarimala temple was witnessed, devotees visiting the shrine reiterated that the sanctity of the temple and Lord Ayyappa "must be preserved at any cost".

One of the male devotees told ANI, "Lord Ayyappa is a `Nithya Brahmachari`, this must be preserved at any cost. Sanctity of the temple should be preserved.

"Meanwhile, another devotee, Ganesh Kumar, said that while coming to the temple, villagers thoroughly checked vehicles for women of 10-50 age group.

"I took Kambamedu route to Sabarimala Temple, locals at every village were checking vehicles for women. Police didn`t intervene as locals checked the vehicles," he said.Calling the attack on women journalists near the holy shrine "unfortunate", Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Kerala president PS Sreedharan Pillai has accused the Communist Party of India (Marxist) of orchestrating the violence.

"That is unfortunate; it was part of the plan designed by the CPI (M) people. They did this. 300 police personnel, who had not completed their training, were taken there and this scene was created," he said.

Places around the temple such as Pamba, Nilakkal, Sannidhanam, and Elavungal have witnessed the majority of the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/women-stopped-from-entering-keralas-sabarimala-temple-for-second-day-in-a-row-172129"> violent protests </a>since the doors of the shrine reopened on Wednesday.

Protestors allegedly vandalised a bus carrying journalists and other passengers at Laka near the Nilakkal base camp. The police were forced to lathi-charge the protestors as they resorted to stone pelting.

Elderly women were seen entering the Lord Ayyappa temple on Wednesday evening, but women between 10 to 50 years of age refrained from visiting the shrine for the sake of their own safety.

Owing to the protests and violence, Section 144 (prohibiting assembly of more than four people) has been imposed in Pamba, Nilakkal, and Elavungal.&nbsp;

A day after protests and violence against the entry of women of menstruating age at the Sabarimala temple was witnessed, devotees visiting the shrine reiterated that the sanctity of the temple and Lord Ayyappa "must be preserved at any cost".

A day after protests and violence against the entry of women of menstruating age at the Sabarimala temple was witnessed, devotees visiting the shrine reiterated that the sanctity of the temple and Lord Ayyappa "must be preserved at any cost". One of the male devotees told ANI, "Lord Ayyappa is a `Nithya Brahmachari`, this must be preserved at any cost. Sanctity of the temple should be preserved. "Meanwhile, another devotee, Ganesh Kumar, said that while coming to the temple, villagers thoroughly checked vehicles for women of 10-50 age group. "I took Kambamedu route to Sabarimala Temple, locals at every village were checking vehicles for women. Police didn`t intervene as locals checked the vehicles," he said.Calling the attack on women journalists near the holy shrine "unfortunate", Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Kerala president PS Sreedharan Pillai has accused the Communist Party of India (Marxist) of orchestrating the violence. "That is unfortunate; it was part of the plan designed by the CPI (M) people. They did this. 300 police personnel, who had not completed their training, were taken there and this scene was created," he said. Places around the temple such as Pamba, Nilakkal, Sannidhanam, and Elavungal have witnessed the majority of the violent protests since the doors of the shrine reopened on Wednesday. Protestors allegedly vandalised a bus carrying journalists and other passengers at Laka near the Nilakkal base camp. The police were forced to lathi-charge the protestors as they resorted to stone pelting. Elderly women were seen entering the Lord Ayyappa temple on Wednesday evening, but women between 10 to 50 years of age refrained from visiting the shrine for the sake of their own safety. Owing to the protests and violence, Section 144 (prohibiting assembly of more than four people) has been imposed in Pamba, Nilakkal, and Elavungal.

Sanctity of Sabarimala temple should be preserved: Devotees

Dozens of&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;garment workers were injured on Monday after a clash with assailants wielding iron bars outside a Chinese-owned factory in Yangon, witnesses and hospital staff said.

Hundreds of employees of Fu Yuen Garment Co Ltd, which has produced clothes for German supermarket chain Lidl and British fashion brand Joules, according to shipment records published by global trade data website Panjiva, have been striking for weeks demanding the reinstatement of 30 sacked workers.

Myanmar’s textile industry is the country’s top export earner after oil and gas, employing more than 450,000 people and generating more than $2 billion in exports last year.

Hundreds of thousands of jobs in the sector could soon be at risk as the European Union considers whether to reinstate economic sanctions over the Rohingya crisis, potentially stripping the country of tariff-free access to the trading bloc.

A spokesman for Lidl told Reuters the company was liaising with the supplier to investigate the claims. "Once we have obtained all of the facts, we will make an assessment of the situation and take action, if necessary," he said in an email.

A spokeswoman for Joules said the brand stopped working with the factory in April 2018.

Staff at Fu Yuen Ltd, in Dagon Seikkan township on the outskirts of the commercial capital of Yangon, have been demonstrating since August, after 30 members of a committee that had been campaigning for better conditions for workers were fired.

“They want to crush the committee,” said Hla Ohn Mar, 21, one of the sacked leaders, speaking in the emergency department of Thingangyun hospital, which was crowded with young workers on Monday afternoon.

Twenty-four people were admitted for treatment, the head of the hospital, Dr Aung San Min, told Reuters. “We are treating six as in-patients,” he said.

Workers said about 20 to 30 men in civilian clothing rounded on the crowd of mostly young women gathered outside the factory gates in the early hours of Monday.

“Those guys are gangsters,” said one of the injured workers, 21-year-old Thae Nu Khaing, as trickles of blood ran down her forehead, one leg bandaged in a plaster cast.

“They pushed me and beat my leg with a metal stick,” she said. “I wasn’t afraid – I was just angry and crying.”

Police blamed workers for the violence, saying in a statement a fight had broken out after a small group urged employees still working at the factory to participate in the protest.

"Both groups have an argument and violence happened," the statement said.

Win Myint, an officer from Dagon Seikkan township station, said officers had been deployed to guard the area but no one had been arrested.

Contacted by Reuters, the township administrator referred questions to Fu Yuen, which could not be reached for comment.

Dozens of Myanmar garment workers were injured on Monday after a clash with assailants wielding iron bars outside a Chinese-owned factory in Yangon, witnesses and hospital staff said.

Dozens of Myanmar garment workers were injured on Monday after a clash with assailants wielding iron bars outside a Chinese-owned factory in Yangon, witnesses and hospital staff said. Hundreds of employees of Fu Yuen Garment Co Ltd, which has produced clothes for German supermarket chain Lidl and British fashion brand Joules, according to shipment records published by global trade data website Panjiva, have been striking for weeks demanding the reinstatement of 30 sacked workers. Myanmar’s textile industry is the country’s top export earner after oil and gas, employing more than 450,000 people and generating more than $2 billion in exports last year. Hundreds of thousands of jobs in the sector could soon be at risk as the European Union considers whether to reinstate economic sanctions over the Rohingya crisis, potentially stripping the country of tariff-free access to the trading bloc. A spokesman for Lidl told Reuters the company was liaising with the supplier to investigate the claims. "Once we have obtained all of the facts, we will make an assessment of the situation and take action, if necessary," he said in an email. A spokeswoman for Joules said the brand stopped working with the factory in April 2018. Staff at Fu Yuen Ltd, in Dagon Seikkan township on the outskirts of the commercial capital of Yangon, have been demonstrating since August, after 30 members of a committee that had been campaigning for better conditions for workers were fired. “They want to crush the committee,” said Hla Ohn Mar, 21, one of the sacked leaders, speaking in the emergency department of Thingangyun hospital, which was crowded with young workers on Monday afternoon. Twenty-four people were admitted for treatment, the head of the hospital, Dr Aung San Min, told Reuters. “We are treating six as in-patients,” he said. Workers said about 20 to 30 men in civilian clothing rounded on the crowd of mostly young women gathered outside the factory gates in the early hours of Monday. “Those guys are gangsters,” said one of the injured workers, 21-year-old Thae Nu Khaing, as trickles of blood ran down her forehead, one leg bandaged in a plaster cast. “They pushed me and beat my leg with a metal stick,” she said. “I wasn’t afraid – I was just angry and crying.” Police blamed workers for the violence, saying in a statement a fight had broken out after a small group urged employees still working at the factory to participate in the protest. "Both groups have an argument and violence happened," the statement said. Win Myint, an officer from Dagon Seikkan township station, said officers had been deployed to guard the area but no one had been arrested. Contacted by Reuters, the township administrator referred questions to Fu Yuen, which could not be reached for comment.

Dozens injured in crackdown on Myanmar garment worker protest

Actress Pamela Anderson joined animal rights campaigners in Paris Wednesday, posing inside a cage to protest the caging of animals in European farming.

The former Baywatch star was backing a campaign by Compassion in World Farming to get a million signatures in seven EU countries in support of their bid to end the practice.

"I don't think any animal belongs in a cage for entertainment or for what we wear or what we eat," she told reporters.

"All of our choices are important and we have to be more conscious of our decisions," she added. "Animal welfare has come a long way, but we have a long way to go."

The petition is part of the European Citizens' Initiative, which means that if they can raise a million signatures within a year the European Commission will have to consider the issue.

The organisers say they have the support of 140 organisations, including in France the Brigitte Bardot Foundation and PETA.

Anderson is currently taking part in the French edition of the television programme Dancing with the Stars.

Actress Pamela Anderson joined animal rights campaigners in Paris Wednesday, posing inside a cage to protest the caging of animals in European farming. The former Baywatch star was backing a campaign by Compassion in World Farming to get a million signatures in seven EU countries in support of their bid to end the practice.

Actress Pamela Anderson joined animal rights campaigners in Paris Wednesday, posing inside a cage to protest the caging of animals in European farming. The former Baywatch star was backing a campaign by Compassion in World Farming to get a million signatures in seven EU countries in support of their bid to end the practice. "I don't think any animal belongs in a cage for entertainment or for what we wear or what we eat," she told reporters. "All of our choices are important and we have to be more conscious of our decisions," she added. "Animal welfare has come a long way, but we have a long way to go." The petition is part of the European Citizens' Initiative, which means that if they can raise a million signatures within a year the European Commission will have to consider the issue. The organisers say they have the support of 140 organisations, including in France the Brigitte Bardot Foundation and PETA. Anderson is currently taking part in the French edition of the television programme Dancing with the Stars.

Former Baywatch star Pamela Anderson gets behind bars, protests against farm animal abuse

Hundreds of Ayyappa devotees, including women, blocked state and national highways in various parts of Kerala Tuesday protesting the recent Supreme Court verdict, permitting women of all ages to worship at the hill shrine at Sabarimala.

The 'Antarrashtriya Hindu Parishad' (International Hindu organisation), an outfit launched by Praveen Togadia after being sidelined from the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, was among the outfits which launched the protests.

In the state capital, the activists squatted on the road at Killipalam from 11 AM to 12 AM, chanting Ayyappa mantras, but allowed ambulances and vehicles carrying patients to pass.

Ambili, a woman activist from Idukki, doused herself with petrol, but was immediately whisked away by police.

The activists held aloft placards, stating that the court was not bigger than Lord Ayyappa and demanded that the state and central government enact suitable legislation to maintain the age old ban.

On October 28, a five-judge constitution bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra lifted the ban on entry of women of menstrual age into the shrine.

Rahul Easwar, activist and President of Ayyappa Dharma Sena, took out a march from Hanuman Kovil to Palayam here.

In Pandalam in Pathnamthitta district, the Ayyappa Dharma Samrakshana Samithi led a march under the leadership of the Pandalam Royal family and observed Tuesday as 'Ayyappa Dharma Samrakshana' (Save Lord Ayyappa) day.

A march was taken out from the medical mission junction to the Pandalam Ayyappa temple, in which thousands of people, including women took part, chanting 'Ayyappa Sarnam' and demanded a review of the Supreme Court verdict.

The Pandalam Palace Nirvahaka Sangam denied some social media reports that the Pandalam palace would not hand over the "thiruvabharanam" (sacred ornaments worn by Lord Ayyappa) to temple authorities during the Makaravilakku festival, to protest against the court verdict.

Roads were blocked at Kollam, Alapuzha, Palakkad and Kochi.

The AHP said it would also begin taking signatures from believers visiting temples against the verdict.&nbsp;

Hundreds of Ayyappa devotees, including women, blocked state and national highways in various parts of Kerala Tuesday protesting the recent Supreme Court verdict, permitting women of all ages to worship at the hill shrine at Sabarimala.

Hundreds of Ayyappa devotees, including women, blocked state and national highways in various parts of Kerala Tuesday protesting the recent Supreme Court verdict, permitting women of all ages to worship at the hill shrine at Sabarimala. The 'Antarrashtriya Hindu Parishad' (International Hindu organisation), an outfit launched by Praveen Togadia after being sidelined from the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, was among the outfits which launched the protests. In the state capital, the activists squatted on the road at Killipalam from 11 AM to 12 AM, chanting Ayyappa mantras, but allowed ambulances and vehicles carrying patients to pass. Ambili, a woman activist from Idukki, doused herself with petrol, but was immediately whisked away by police. The activists held aloft placards, stating that the court was not bigger than Lord Ayyappa and demanded that the state and central government enact suitable legislation to maintain the age old ban. On October 28, a five-judge constitution bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra lifted the ban on entry of women of menstrual age into the shrine. Rahul Easwar, activist and President of Ayyappa Dharma Sena, took out a march from Hanuman Kovil to Palayam here. In Pandalam in Pathnamthitta district, the Ayyappa Dharma Samrakshana Samithi led a march under the leadership of the Pandalam Royal family and observed Tuesday as 'Ayyappa Dharma Samrakshana' (Save Lord Ayyappa) day. A march was taken out from the medical mission junction to the Pandalam Ayyappa temple, in which thousands of people, including women took part, chanting 'Ayyappa Sarnam' and demanded a review of the Supreme Court verdict. The Pandalam Palace Nirvahaka Sangam denied some social media reports that the Pandalam palace would not hand over the "thiruvabharanam" (sacred ornaments worn by Lord Ayyappa) to temple authorities during the Makaravilakku festival, to protest against the court verdict. Roads were blocked at Kollam, Alapuzha, Palakkad and Kochi. The AHP said it would also begin taking signatures from believers visiting temples against the verdict.

Hundreds of Ayyappa devotees block roads in Kerala protesting SC verdict

As thousands of farmers tried to enter the national capital in a massive protest march, the government Tuesday announced that a committee of chief ministers will look into their demands, even as the protesters stayed put saying they were not "satisfied" with the assurance.

After meeting the protesting farmers at the Delhi-UP border here, Union minister of state for agriculture Rajendra Singh Shekhawat said the government was assuring the farmers to take forward their cause.

"I assure you all this. We will move court over the NGT order (to ban tractor and vehicles which are more than 10 years old," he said.

On another problem faced by the farmers about farm labour, the minister said the government would look at bringing in some changes to the minimum wage rules for rural areas to solve this problem.

"The government has formed a committee of six chief ministers to look into this issue of labour for farm. The committee is in talks to connect MNREGA with agriculture," Shekhawat added.

"On behalf of (Union Home Minister) Rajnath Singh, I assure you that I will represent the farmers' interests in this committee and whatever changes would be required to link MNREGA with agriculture will be made," Shekhawat told the farmers.

The protesting farmers, however, decided to stay put at the Delhi border, where they have been stopped by the police from entering the national capital.

Naresh Tikait, the chief of Bharat Kisan Union (BKU), which has given the protest call, said the farmers are "not satisfied" with the government's assurance.

"We will discuss this and then decide on future course of action. I can't decide anything alone, our committee will take the decision," he added.

The farmers were marching towards Delhi over demands ranging from farm loan waiver to cut in fuel prices, but were stopped at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border with police using water cannons to disperse them.&nbsp;

The farmers, riding tractors and trolleys, broke barricades of the UP Police and then started proceeding towards the barricades put up by the Delhi Police, a senior police officer said.&nbsp;

As thousands of farmers tried to enter the national capital in a massive protest march, the government Tuesday announced that a committee of chief ministers will look into their demands, even as the protesters stayed put saying they were not "satisfied" with the assurance.

As thousands of farmers tried to enter the national capital in a massive protest march, the government Tuesday announced that a committee of chief ministers will look into their demands, even as the protesters stayed put saying they were not "satisfied" with the assurance. After meeting the protesting farmers at the Delhi-UP border here, Union minister of state for agriculture Rajendra Singh Shekhawat said the government was assuring the farmers to take forward their cause. "I assure you all this. We will move court over the NGT order (to ban tractor and vehicles which are more than 10 years old," he said. On another problem faced by the farmers about farm labour, the minister said the government would look at bringing in some changes to the minimum wage rules for rural areas to solve this problem. "The government has formed a committee of six chief ministers to look into this issue of labour for farm. The committee is in talks to connect MNREGA with agriculture," Shekhawat added. "On behalf of (Union Home Minister) Rajnath Singh, I assure you that I will represent the farmers' interests in this committee and whatever changes would be required to link MNREGA with agriculture will be made," Shekhawat told the farmers. The protesting farmers, however, decided to stay put at the Delhi border, where they have been stopped by the police from entering the national capital. Naresh Tikait, the chief of Bharat Kisan Union (BKU), which has given the protest call, said the farmers are "not satisfied" with the government's assurance. "We will discuss this and then decide on future course of action. I can't decide anything alone, our committee will take the decision," he added. The farmers were marching towards Delhi over demands ranging from farm loan waiver to cut in fuel prices, but were stopped at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border with police using water cannons to disperse them. The farmers, riding tractors and trolleys, broke barricades of the UP Police and then started proceeding towards the barricades put up by the Delhi Police, a senior police officer said.

Not 'satisfied' with government assurance, farmers say protests will continue

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Tuesday that preventing a protest march of farmers from entering the national capital was "wrong" and pitched for allowing them entry into the city.

"Why are the farmers being stopped from entering Delhi. It is wrong. Delhi belongs to all. They should be given entry in Delhi. We support their demands," he told reporters on the sidelines of an event held at the Delhi assembly to mark Gandhi Jayanti.

Farmers marching towards Delhi as part of the Bharatiya Kisan Union's (BKU) protest call over demands ranging from farm loan waiver to cut in fuel prices, were stopped at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border Tuesday with police using water cannons to disperse them.

The farmers, riding tractors and trolleys, broke barricades of the UP Police and then started proceeding towards the barricades put up by the Delhi Police, a senior police officer said.

The city police had on Monday imposed prohibitory orders in east and northeast Delhi, anticipating law and order problems in view of the protest.

In east Delhi, the prohibitory orders issued by Deputy Commissioner of Police (East) Pankaj Singh under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, will be in force until October 8.

It covers Preet Vihar, Jagatpuri, Shakarpur, Madhu Vihar, Ghazipur, Mayur Vihar, Mandawli, Pandav Nagar, Kalyanpuri and New Ashok Nagar police station limits.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Tuesday that preventing a protest march of farmers from entering the national capital was "wrong" and pitched for allowing them entry into the city.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Tuesday that preventing a protest march of farmers from entering the national capital was "wrong" and pitched for allowing them entry into the city. "Why are the farmers being stopped from entering Delhi. It is wrong. Delhi belongs to all. They should be given entry in Delhi. We support their demands," he told reporters on the sidelines of an event held at the Delhi assembly to mark Gandhi Jayanti. Farmers marching towards Delhi as part of the Bharatiya Kisan Union's (BKU) protest call over demands ranging from farm loan waiver to cut in fuel prices, were stopped at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border Tuesday with police using water cannons to disperse them. The farmers, riding tractors and trolleys, broke barricades of the UP Police and then started proceeding towards the barricades put up by the Delhi Police, a senior police officer said. The city police had on Monday imposed prohibitory orders in east and northeast Delhi, anticipating law and order problems in view of the protest. In east Delhi, the prohibitory orders issued by Deputy Commissioner of Police (East) Pankaj Singh under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, will be in force until October 8. It covers Preet Vihar, Jagatpuri, Shakarpur, Madhu Vihar, Ghazipur, Mayur Vihar, Mandawli, Pandav Nagar, Kalyanpuri and New Ashok Nagar police station limits.

Arvind Kejriwal says farmers protesting should be allowed to enter Delhi

Three Gulf Arab states pledged $2.5 billion in aid to Jordan today in an effort to stabilize the U.S.-allied kingdom as it faces its worst protests in years over government austerity plans that include tax increases.

The money from Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates will go toward a deposit in Jordan's Central Bank, cover World Bank guarantees for the kingdom, offer budget support and finance other development projects.

The hope is the five-year aid package, which mirrors a similar aid package offered by Gulf states in 2011, will help Jordan come up with a new, more-palatable austerity plan to satisfy international lenders and its public.

The money came after an early morning meeting in Mecca attended by Jordan's King Abdullah II, Saudi King Salman, Kuwait's ruling emir Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah and Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE's vice president and prime minister.&nbsp;

Also on hand was Saudi Arabia's assertive 32-year-old Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, though he sat off to the side of a circular table that hosted the leaders.

The statement quoted King Abdullah II as saying he hoped the aid would help his country overcome its fiscal crisis.

In December 2011, the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council that is headquartered in Saudi Arabia pledged to give $2.5 billion in aid each to Jordan and Morocco, both of which had been invited to join the regional group that year.

The pledge from the GCC was to last five years. It expired last year and so far the six-member GCC has yet to offer any additional funding as the bloc remains split by a diplomatic crisis with Qatar. Jordan receives over $1 billion a year from the US, as well as aid from Europe and elsewhere.

Jordan's protests have led to the firing of its prime minister. While peaceful, the protests threaten the stability of a kingdom strained by hosting those who fled the wars in Iraq and Syria. Jordan also is one of only two Arab nations to have full diplomatic relations with Israel and plays an instrumental role in the region and in Israeli-Palestinian peace efforts.

The money from Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates will go toward a deposit in Jordan's Central Bank, cover World Bank guarantees for the kingdom, offer budget support and finance other development projects

Three Gulf Arab states pledged $2.5 billion in aid to Jordan today in an effort to stabilize the U.S.-allied kingdom as it faces its worst protests in years over government austerity plans that include tax increases. The money from Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates will go toward a deposit in Jordan's Central Bank, cover World Bank guarantees for the kingdom, offer budget support and finance other development projects. The hope is the five-year aid package, which mirrors a similar aid package offered by Gulf states in 2011, will help Jordan come up with a new, more-palatable austerity plan to satisfy international lenders and its public. The money came after an early morning meeting in Mecca attended by Jordan's King Abdullah II, Saudi King Salman, Kuwait's ruling emir Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah and Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE's vice president and prime minister. Also on hand was Saudi Arabia's assertive 32-year-old Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, though he sat off to the side of a circular table that hosted the leaders. The statement quoted King Abdullah II as saying he hoped the aid would help his country overcome its fiscal crisis. In December 2011, the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council that is headquartered in Saudi Arabia pledged to give $2.5 billion in aid each to Jordan and Morocco, both of which had been invited to join the regional group that year. The pledge from the GCC was to last five years. It expired last year and so far the six-member GCC has yet to offer any additional funding as the bloc remains split by a diplomatic crisis with Qatar. Jordan receives over $1 billion a year from the US, as well as aid from Europe and elsewhere. Jordan's protests have led to the firing of its prime minister. While peaceful, the protests threaten the stability of a kingdom strained by hosting those who fled the wars in Iraq and Syria. Jordan also is one of only two Arab nations to have full diplomatic relations with Israel and plays an instrumental role in the region and in Israeli-Palestinian peace efforts.

3 Gulf Arab states pledge $2.5 billion to Jordan after protests

Bayan Samara's children often asked her why she could not buy them new clothes or toys. So the Jordanian teacher took them to a rally in the capital.

"It breaks my heart," she said in her living room in Amman. "So we help them understand that these are tough times because we have a government that includes 'bad guys', like my son says."

Samara, 30, and her husband Ahmad are struggling to keep their family afloat in Jordan's sluggish economy.

Along with thousands of young people and families, they have hit the streets in a rare wave of protests that led the prime minister to resign on Monday.

In the past two years, steep price hikes forced the couple to move their children into lower quality public schools and to slash their health insurance. Together, they barely make enough to cover housing loans and daily expenses for their son and two daughters, ages 6 to 8, Samara said.

They blame a build-up of economic policies and tax reforms, which have sparked the biggest protests in years in Jordan, a U.S. ally that has mostly escaped the turmoil that is rocking much of the region.

Public anger has grown since the end of bread subsidies and a rise in the general sales tax this year under an IMF plan to cut the Arab nation's $37 billion debt.

"I'm worried that despite all this hope, things will stay exactly the same," Samara said. "People are under pressure. There's a feeling of defeat in the family."

"At the end of the day, we had to make do with the reality," she added. "This is why we protest, for a better future for our children, for us."

The government has said it needs funds for public services and says the reforms would reduce social disparities. Critics accuse it of squandering public money, on top of imposing policies that hit the poor and squeeze the middle class.

"My dream was to build myself in this country that I love," said Ahmad, who sells vending machines but whose business is plagued by bribery and low demand.

After staying in Saudi Arabia for years, he came home to Amman to launch his own business and live closer to relatives. Now, he fears having to go abroad again.

Jordan's King Abdullah urged broad talks over taxes this week after replacing his premier to defuse public frustration.

The king appointed Omar al-Razzaz, a former World Bank economist, who said on Thursday he would drop a planned income tax law - a main demand of the demonstrators.

Some protests have dwindled since then as people welcomed the move and said they would wait to see if the new cabinet would help stop price hikes.

But for others, like Ahmad and his wife, the root of their troubles will not go away without deeper, democratic change in government, they say.

"There is some optimisim...but this is about the approach in running the country," Ahmad said. "(Razzaz) alone can not change this even though he is a very competent man."

He said they did not want the upheaval that the 2011 uprisings triggered in other Arab countries, but only sought to pressure the new government to make better decisions.

At a late night rally near the Cabinet office this week, hundreds of people around Ahmad waved flags and chanted: "Bread, freedom, social justice."

"I brought my children with me so they will know there is a possibility for change," he said. "I don't want them to be afraid of change."

Samara, 30, and her husband Ahmad are struggling to keep their family afloat in Jordan's sluggish economy

Bayan Samara's children often asked her why she could not buy them new clothes or toys. So the Jordanian teacher took them to a rally in the capital. "It breaks my heart," she said in her living room in Amman. "So we help them understand that these are tough times because we have a government that includes 'bad guys', like my son says." Samara, 30, and her husband Ahmad are struggling to keep their family afloat in Jordan's sluggish economy. Along with thousands of young people and families, they have hit the streets in a rare wave of protests that led the prime minister to resign on Monday. In the past two years, steep price hikes forced the couple to move their children into lower quality public schools and to slash their health insurance. Together, they barely make enough to cover housing loans and daily expenses for their son and two daughters, ages 6 to 8, Samara said. They blame a build-up of economic policies and tax reforms, which have sparked the biggest protests in years in Jordan, a U.S. ally that has mostly escaped the turmoil that is rocking much of the region. Public anger has grown since the end of bread subsidies and a rise in the general sales tax this year under an IMF plan to cut the Arab nation's $37 billion debt. "I'm worried that despite all this hope, things will stay exactly the same," Samara said. "People are under pressure. There's a feeling of defeat in the family." "At the end of the day, we had to make do with the reality," she added. "This is why we protest, for a better future for our children, for us." The government has said it needs funds for public services and says the reforms would reduce social disparities. Critics accuse it of squandering public money, on top of imposing policies that hit the poor and squeeze the middle class. "My dream was to build myself in this country that I love," said Ahmad, who sells vending machines but whose business is plagued by bribery and low demand. After staying in Saudi Arabia for years, he came home to Amman to launch his own business and live closer to relatives. Now, he fears having to go abroad again. Jordan's King Abdullah urged broad talks over taxes this week after replacing his premier to defuse public frustration. The king appointed Omar al-Razzaz, a former World Bank economist, who said on Thursday he would drop a planned income tax law - a main demand of the demonstrators. Some protests have dwindled since then as people welcomed the move and said they would wait to see if the new cabinet would help stop price hikes. But for others, like Ahmad and his wife, the root of their troubles will not go away without deeper, democratic change in government, they say. "There is some optimisim...but this is about the approach in running the country," Ahmad said. "(Razzaz) alone can not change this even though he is a very competent man." He said they did not want the upheaval that the 2011 uprisings triggered in other Arab countries, but only sought to pressure the new government to make better decisions. At a late night rally near the Cabinet office this week, hundreds of people around Ahmad waved flags and chanted: "Bread, freedom, social justice." "I brought my children with me so they will know there is a possibility for change," he said. "I don't want them to be afraid of change."

'This is why we protest': Jordan family struggles in tough economy

Human rights groups took to the streets in cities across the United States&nbsp;on Friday&nbsp;to protest the Trump administration's policy to separate asylum-seeking Central American immigrant children from their parents.

Hundreds of people chanted "families belong together" in front of the Justice Department in Washington, accusing the government of violating human rights and traumatizing children for political reasons.

"This is indeed an emergency -- every single day children are ripped apart from their parents and the Trump administration must immediately cease this policy," said Jessica Morales, chairwoman of We Belong Together, an immigrant advocacy group.

The protests came after President Donald Trump's administration confirmed that it had split hundreds of families who crossed the southern border without immigration documents since October.

Last month, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced an official policy of arresting and separating all parents from their children if they cross the border illegally.

The government sees the policy as a necessary deterrent to illegal immigration, but the critics say it is cruel to refugees and asylum seekers fleeing violence in Central America.

"This attorney general made a decision to separate our kids from their parents. This is immoral, it's a crime, and we are not going to accept that," said Gustavo Torres, executive director of the immigrant advocacy group CASA.

The backlash has placed Trump, who has promised to halt illegal immigration, on the defensive, ironically blaming Democrats for a policy choice his administration has made.

The American Civil Liberties Union has filed a lawsuit challenging the policy, calling it a violation of human rights.

"Separating families is more than cruel and unnecessary -- it's torture," the ACLU said.

The policy aims to stem a surge of poor families mostly from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras pouring into the United States.

Citing the daily violence in their home countries, thousands each week cross the US-Mexico border and immediately turn themselves into authorities asking for asylum.

They are part of a broader rebound in illegal immigration that has deeply angered Trump.

In April alone, 50,924 people were detained after crossing the border without papers, including 4,314 unaccompanied children and 9,647 family units, according to US Customs and Border Patrol.

Late last year, the Trump administration quietly began separating some illegal border crossers from their children, sending the youngsters to holding facilities for several weeks before either transferring them back to parents or to relatives already living in the United States.

From October to April, about 700 children were separated from their parents.

With illegal border crossings and asylum requests undeterred, Sessions announced last month a "zero tolerance" policy that will see every unauthorized border-crosser charged with a crime even before they can request asylum.

"Today, we are here to send a message to the world: we are not going to let this country be overwhelmed... If you cross this border unlawfully, then we will prosecute you," Sessions said.

"If you are smuggling a child, then we will prosecute you and that child will be separated from you as required by law," he said, adding: "If you don't like that, then don't smuggle children over our border."

The administration says the families who send or bring their children across the border are working with organized human smugglers who teach them exactly what to say to be placed into the asylum processing. That gives an incentive for people to head to the United States, they argue.

The immigrants say they are fleeing real dangers in their home countries.

In the two weeks that followed Sessions' announcement, authorities arrested 658 children together with 638 adults, US Border Patrol deputy chief of operations Richard Hudson told lawmakers last week.

The children are believed to have been taken away from their parents, but Hudson would not confirm that.

At the Washington protest, Guatemala native Exel Estrada, who came to the United States at 15 and just finished his first year in a US college, said the Trump administration is "against all immigrants."

"I too was an unaccompanied minor, I too was in a detention center," Estrada said.

"If there were policies like these four years ago, I would not be standing here today."

Hundreds of people chanted 'families belong together' in front of the Justice Department in Washington

Human rights groups took to the streets in cities across the United States on Friday to protest the Trump administration's policy to separate asylum-seeking Central American immigrant children from their parents. Hundreds of people chanted "families belong together" in front of the Justice Department in Washington, accusing the government of violating human rights and traumatizing children for political reasons. "This is indeed an emergency -- every single day children are ripped apart from their parents and the Trump administration must immediately cease this policy," said Jessica Morales, chairwoman of We Belong Together, an immigrant advocacy group. The protests came after President Donald Trump's administration confirmed that it had split hundreds of families who crossed the southern border without immigration documents since October. Last month, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced an official policy of arresting and separating all parents from their children if they cross the border illegally. The government sees the policy as a necessary deterrent to illegal immigration, but the critics say it is cruel to refugees and asylum seekers fleeing violence in Central America. "This attorney general made a decision to separate our kids from their parents. This is immoral, it's a crime, and we are not going to accept that," said Gustavo Torres, executive director of the immigrant advocacy group CASA. The backlash has placed Trump, who has promised to halt illegal immigration, on the defensive, ironically blaming Democrats for a policy choice his administration has made. The American Civil Liberties Union has filed a lawsuit challenging the policy, calling it a violation of human rights. "Separating families is more than cruel and unnecessary -- it's torture," the ACLU said. The policy aims to stem a surge of poor families mostly from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras pouring into the United States. Citing the daily violence in their home countries, thousands each week cross the US-Mexico border and immediately turn themselves into authorities asking for asylum. They are part of a broader rebound in illegal immigration that has deeply angered Trump. In April alone, 50,924 people were detained after crossing the border without papers, including 4,314 unaccompanied children and 9,647 family units, according to US Customs and Border Patrol. Late last year, the Trump administration quietly began separating some illegal border crossers from their children, sending the youngsters to holding facilities for several weeks before either transferring them back to parents or to relatives already living in the United States. From October to April, about 700 children were separated from their parents. With illegal border crossings and asylum requests undeterred, Sessions announced last month a "zero tolerance" policy that will see every unauthorized border-crosser charged with a crime even before they can request asylum. "Today, we are here to send a message to the world: we are not going to let this country be overwhelmed... If you cross this border unlawfully, then we will prosecute you," Sessions said. "If you are smuggling a child, then we will prosecute you and that child will be separated from you as required by law," he said, adding: "If you don't like that, then don't smuggle children over our border." The administration says the families who send or bring their children across the border are working with organized human smugglers who teach them exactly what to say to be placed into the asylum processing. That gives an incentive for people to head to the United States, they argue. The immigrants say they are fleeing real dangers in their home countries. In the two weeks that followed Sessions' announcement, authorities arrested 658 children together with 638 adults, US Border Patrol deputy chief of operations Richard Hudson told lawmakers last week. The children are believed to have been taken away from their parents, but Hudson would not confirm that. At the Washington protest, Guatemala native Exel Estrada, who came to the United States at 15 and just finished his first year in a US college, said the Trump administration is "against all immigrants." "I too was an unaccompanied minor, I too was in a detention center," Estrada said. "If there were policies like these four years ago, I would not be standing here today."

Protesters attack 'immoral' Trump policy on immigrant families

DMK and several other political parties in Tamil Nadu today hit out at superstar Rajinikanth for his comments that too many protests would turn the state into a 'graveyard'.

However, the ruling AIADMK welcomed his remarks, made in the backdrop of the anti-Sterlite protests, blaming anti-social elements for the recent violence in Tuticorin that resulted in 13 deaths in police firing.

After visiting the injured in Tuticorin, Rajinikanth had yesterday warned that Tamil Nadu will become a 'graveyard' if there were too many agitations.

The actor, who has announced he will float a political party, also said anti-social elements had infiltrated the protest by locals demanding closure of Sterlite's copper smelter unit in the southern town.

DMK Working President MK Stalin, MDMK founder Vaiko, AMMK leader TTV Dhinakaran and VCK's Thol Thirumavalavan hit out at the aspiring politician for his comments.

Speaking to reporters in neighbouring Puducherry, Stalin said he wondered if Rajinikanth was indeed making his own viewpoint.

"There is a doubt if this is his voice as BJP has also been making such remarks. Whatever it is, he is a Superstar and himself has said anti-social elements had infiltrated the protesters. It would be good for the country if he could identify such persons," he said.

Further, nothing can be resolved without a struggle, Stalin, Leader of Opposition in the state assembly, added.

"Whether the anti-Hindi agitation (of the 1960s) or the freedom struggle or the pro-jallikattu protests, all of them (the goal) had been achieved through agitations. I hope he is aware of it," he said.

Dhinakaran said the anti-Sterlite agitation was a people's protest.

"Are the dead or those injured anti-social elements?" he questioned.

MDMK founder Vaiko said Rajinikanth's comments have "hurt crores of Tamils."

Thirumavalavan said while the actor supported protests in his films, "it is surprising" he was now speaking out against them.

"We are agitating to ensure Tamil Nadu is not turned into a graveyard," Thirumavalavan, whose party is among those involved in various protests including against NEET, said, hitting back at Rajinikanth's 'graveyard' remarks.

Meanwhile, the AIADMK, critical of the actor on many issues, lauded him for speaking "with conscience."

A write-up in the party mouthpiece "Namathu Puratchi Thalaivi Amma" also pointed out his praising of the late Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa for dealing with anti-social elements with an "iron fist."

"Superstar Rajinikanth has spoken frankly with conscience... he has endorsed Chief Minister K Palaniswami's statement that anti-social elements had infiltrated the protestors," it said.

The actor's remarks were "welcome," it added.&nbsp

However, the ruling AIADMK welcomed his remarks, made in the backdrop of the anti-Sterlite protests, blaming anti-social elements for the recent violence in Tuticorin that resulted in 13 deaths in police firing

DMK and several other political parties in Tamil Nadu today hit out at superstar Rajinikanth for his comments that too many protests would turn the state into a 'graveyard'. However, the ruling AIADMK welcomed his remarks, made in the backdrop of the anti-Sterlite protests, blaming anti-social elements for the recent violence in Tuticorin that resulted in 13 deaths in police firing. After visiting the injured in Tuticorin, Rajinikanth had yesterday warned that Tamil Nadu will become a 'graveyard' if there were too many agitations. The actor, who has announced he will float a political party, also said anti-social elements had infiltrated the protest by locals demanding closure of Sterlite's copper smelter unit in the southern town. DMK Working President MK Stalin, MDMK founder Vaiko, AMMK leader TTV Dhinakaran and VCK's Thol Thirumavalavan hit out at the aspiring politician for his comments. Speaking to reporters in neighbouring Puducherry, Stalin said he wondered if Rajinikanth was indeed making his own viewpoint. "There is a doubt if this is his voice as BJP has also been making such remarks. Whatever it is, he is a Superstar and himself has said anti-social elements had infiltrated the protesters. It would be good for the country if he could identify such persons," he said. Further, nothing can be resolved without a struggle, Stalin, Leader of Opposition in the state assembly, added. "Whether the anti-Hindi agitation (of the 1960s) or the freedom struggle or the pro-jallikattu protests, all of them (the goal) had been achieved through agitations. I hope he is aware of it," he said. Dhinakaran said the anti-Sterlite agitation was a people's protest. "Are the dead or those injured anti-social elements?" he questioned. MDMK founder Vaiko said Rajinikanth's comments have "hurt crores of Tamils." Thirumavalavan said while the actor supported protests in his films, "it is surprising" he was now speaking out against them. "We are agitating to ensure Tamil Nadu is not turned into a graveyard," Thirumavalavan, whose party is among those involved in various protests including against NEET, said, hitting back at Rajinikanth's 'graveyard' remarks. Meanwhile, the AIADMK, critical of the actor on many issues, lauded him for speaking "with conscience." A write-up in the party mouthpiece "Namathu Puratchi Thalaivi Amma" also pointed out his praising of the late Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa for dealing with anti-social elements with an "iron fist." "Superstar Rajinikanth has spoken frankly with conscience... he has endorsed Chief Minister K Palaniswami's statement that anti-social elements had infiltrated the protestors," it said. The actor's remarks were "welcome," it added.

DMK, political parties flay Rajini's comments on protests

Thousands of anti-racism campaigners, left-wingers and techno lovers are expected to pack the streets of Berlin on Sunday to protest a rally called by the far-right AfD party, with police deploying in force to keep the peace.

Uniting under the banner "Stop the hatred", counter-demonstrators say they want to drown out the march by the anti-immigration, anti-Islam Alternative for Germany (AfD).

But AfD members have accused some opponents of threatening to use violence.

The party's "Future of Germany" march, slated to start outside Berlin's main train station at midday (1000 GMT) and end at the iconic Brandenburg Gate, marks the first public show of strength by the nationalist outfit since it became the largest opposition party.

Scheduled to address the crowd are top AfD'ers Joerg Meuthen and Alexander Gauland, who regularly rail against Chancellor Angela Merkel's decision to allow in large numbers of mostly Muslim refugees at the height of Europe's migrant crisis.

"We want to show everyone that along with millions of Germans across the country we are worried about Germany's future," Berlin AfD chief Georg Pazderski told a pre-march press conference.

After predicting 10,000 AfD supporters would show up, organisers later scaled back expectations to "at least 2,500 to 5,000".

Pazderski said many still feared being "stigmatised" for showing their AfD colours, even after the party took nearly 13 percent of the vote and won its first seats in the national parliament in last year's elections.&nbsp;

Bass away the AfD

If confirmed, the AfD turnout could be dwarfed by a slate of counter-demos.

The most eye-catching promises to be a huge dance party by over 100 clubs from Berlin's legendary techno scene, who want to use boats on the river Spree and a convoy of trucks to "bass away" the AfD.

"The Berlin club culture is everything that Nazis are not," they said in a statement.

"We are progressive, queer, feminist, anti-racist, inclusive, colourful and we have unicorns."

More than 9,000 dance fans have said they will attend, according to the event's Facebook page.&nbsp;

Thousands of others have vowed to join a mass anti-AfD protest organised by a collection of groups including political parties, unions, student bodies, migrant advocates and civil society organisations.

"We won't leave the streets to the AfD," said Nora Berneis of the "Stop the hatred, stop the AfD" alliance.

Although the vast majority of counter-demonstrators are expected to be peaceful, members of the far-left extremist Antifa movement have on their website called for "chaos", urging sympathisers "to sabotage the AfD rally using all necessary means".

Berlin police said they plan to deploy 2,000 officers, drafted in from across Germany, to prevent clashes and any attempts "to block the right to free speech".

Rape threats

Founded in 2013 as an anti-euro party, the AfD rose to prominence by capitalising on widespread anger over the arrival of over a million asylum seekers in Germany since 2015.

It now holds more than 90 seats in the Bundestag where its presence has changed the tone of debate.

Just this month, AfD co-leader Alice Weidel earned herself a formal rebuke from the parliamentary speaker for describing immigrants as "headscarf girls, welfare-claiming, knife-wielding men and other good-for-nothings".

Merkel's left-right coalition government has responded to the AfD's rise by tightening asylum policies, but the party continues to climb in opinion polls -- exposing the divisions in German society.

In a sign of the simmering tensions, lawmaker Renate Kuenast of the opposition Greens party was deluged with thousands of hateful comments after posting a video online urging people to join Sunday's anti-AfD demos.

The posts included rape threats and calls for her to kill herself.&nbsp;

Kuenast responded with a second Facebook video in which she vowed to file complaints against the worst messages, and said nothing would deter her from marching.

"I am now more than ever calling for people to join us in demonstrating on Sunday," she said.

Thousands of anti-racism campaigners, left-wingers and techno lovers are expected to pack the streets of Berlin on Sunday to protest a rally called by the far-right AfD party, with police deploying in force to keep the peace

Thousands of anti-racism campaigners, left-wingers and techno lovers are expected to pack the streets of Berlin on Sunday to protest a rally called by the far-right AfD party, with police deploying in force to keep the peace. Uniting under the banner "Stop the hatred", counter-demonstrators say they want to drown out the march by the anti-immigration, anti-Islam Alternative for Germany (AfD). But AfD members have accused some opponents of threatening to use violence. The party's "Future of Germany" march, slated to start outside Berlin's main train station at midday (1000 GMT) and end at the iconic Brandenburg Gate, marks the first public show of strength by the nationalist outfit since it became the largest opposition party. Scheduled to address the crowd are top AfD'ers Joerg Meuthen and Alexander Gauland, who regularly rail against Chancellor Angela Merkel's decision to allow in large numbers of mostly Muslim refugees at the height of Europe's migrant crisis. "We want to show everyone that along with millions of Germans across the country we are worried about Germany's future," Berlin AfD chief Georg Pazderski told a pre-march press conference. After predicting 10,000 AfD supporters would show up, organisers later scaled back expectations to "at least 2,500 to 5,000". Pazderski said many still feared being "stigmatised" for showing their AfD colours, even after the party took nearly 13 percent of the vote and won its first seats in the national parliament in last year's elections. Bass away the AfD If confirmed, the AfD turnout could be dwarfed by a slate of counter-demos. The most eye-catching promises to be a huge dance party by over 100 clubs from Berlin's legendary techno scene, who want to use boats on the river Spree and a convoy of trucks to "bass away" the AfD. "The Berlin club culture is everything that Nazis are not," they said in a statement. "We are progressive, queer, feminist, anti-racist, inclusive, colourful and we have unicorns." More than 9,000 dance fans have said they will attend, according to the event's Facebook page. Thousands of others have vowed to join a mass anti-AfD protest organised by a collection of groups including political parties, unions, student bodies, migrant advocates and civil society organisations. "We won't leave the streets to the AfD," said Nora Berneis of the "Stop the hatred, stop the AfD" alliance. Although the vast majority of counter-demonstrators are expected to be peaceful, members of the far-left extremist Antifa movement have on their website called for "chaos", urging sympathisers "to sabotage the AfD rally using all necessary means". Berlin police said they plan to deploy 2,000 officers, drafted in from across Germany, to prevent clashes and any attempts "to block the right to free speech". Rape threats Founded in 2013 as an anti-euro party, the AfD rose to prominence by capitalising on widespread anger over the arrival of over a million asylum seekers in Germany since 2015. It now holds more than 90 seats in the Bundestag where its presence has changed the tone of debate. Just this month, AfD co-leader Alice Weidel earned herself a formal rebuke from the parliamentary speaker for describing immigrants as "headscarf girls, welfare-claiming, knife-wielding men and other good-for-nothings". Merkel's left-right coalition government has responded to the AfD's rise by tightening asylum policies, but the party continues to climb in opinion polls -- exposing the divisions in German society. In a sign of the simmering tensions, lawmaker Renate Kuenast of the opposition Greens party was deluged with thousands of hateful comments after posting a video online urging people to join Sunday's anti-AfD demos. The posts included rape threats and calls for her to kill herself. Kuenast responded with a second Facebook video in which she vowed to file complaints against the worst messages, and said nothing would deter her from marching. "I am now more than ever calling for people to join us in demonstrating on Sunday," she said.

Berlin: Far-right takes to streets to stage anti-government protest

The Baloch National Movement staged a protest in Germany's&nbsp;Göttingen against Pakistan on Sunday for conducting nuclear tests in 1998.

Five nuclear tests were conducted by Pakistan in Chagai area of Balochistan in 1998.&nbsp;

The protesters claim&nbsp;that the people in Balochistan are suffering from the adverse consequence of the nuclear test.

According to reports the inhabitants and the newborn in the region are born with serious disease due to the after-effects of the nuclear test.

With the code name Chagai-I, this was the first public test of nuclear weapons.

The test was carried out immediately after India conducted its successful nuclear test at Pokhran on May 11 and 13, 1998.

Each year May 28 is celebrated by Pakistan as "the day of greatness" to mark the country's successful detonation of the nuclear device.&nbsp;

The people of Balochistan's Chagai, however, observe it as "Black Day". 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The protesters from Baloch National Movement claim that the people in Balochistan are suffering from the adverse consequence of the nuclear test

The Baloch National Movement staged a protest in Germany's Göttingen against Pakistan on Sunday for conducting nuclear tests in 1998. Five nuclear tests were conducted by Pakistan in Chagai area of Balochistan in 1998. The protesters claim that the people in Balochistan are suffering from the adverse consequence of the nuclear test. According to reports the inhabitants and the newborn in the region are born with serious disease due to the after-effects of the nuclear test. With the code name Chagai-I, this was the first public test of nuclear weapons. The test was carried out immediately after India conducted its successful nuclear test at Pokhran on May 11 and 13, 1998. Each year May 28 is celebrated by Pakistan as "the day of greatness" to mark the country's successful detonation of the nuclear device. The people of Balochistan's Chagai, however, observe it as "Black Day".

Baloch National Movement stages protest in Germany against 1998 Pakistan nuclear test

A little after BS Yeddyurappa was sworn in as Chief Minister of Karnataka, Congress leaders and the party's Karnataka MLAs began protesting outside the Vidhan Soudha.&nbsp;

The JD(S)'s HD Kumaraswamy and his father HD Deve Gowda joined them.&nbsp;

There was however one Congress MLA missing — Anand Singh.&nbsp;

Singh, a mining baron who joined the Congress from the BJP just before the Karnataka elections, was also missing from the Congress Legislature Party meeting yesterday.&nbsp;

"All MLAs are here except Anand Singh," Congress MP from Bangalore Rural DK Suresh said. &nbsp;

"He is in (the) clutches of Narendra Modi," Suresh added.&nbsp;

Kumaraswamy was even more forthcoming.&nbsp;

"Modi government is misusing institutions of central government," he said.&nbsp;

"I know they are threatening MLAs.&nbsp;

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All MLAs are here except Anand Singh, he is in clutches of Narendra Modi: DK Suresh, Congress MP at Vidhan Soudha in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bengaluru?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bengaluru</a> <a href="https://t.co/2h8F3q0IKF">pic.twitter.com/2h8F3q0IKF</a>
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Modi govt is misusing institutions of central govt. I know they are threatening MLAs. Anand Singh (Cong MLA) told 'they are using ED, I had a case in ED & they are going to screw me. I'm sorry I have to protect my interest,' another Cong MLA who spoke to Singh told me-Kumaraswamy <a href="https://t.co/QrzW8eHeAR">pic.twitter.com/QrzW8eHeAR</a>
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Kumaraswamy then said Singh had told another Congress MLA that, "They are using ED, I had a case in ED and they are going to screw me. I'm sorry I have to protect my interest."&nbsp;

Kumaraswamy added that he had learnt what Anand Singh had said from the second Congress MLA.&nbsp;

Anand Singh, who joined the Congress from the BJP just before the elections, is not at the Congress-JD(S) protest at the Vidhan Soudha. He also did not attend the Karnataka Congress Legislature Party meeting yesterday

A little after BS Yeddyurappa was sworn in as Chief Minister of Karnataka, Congress leaders and the party's Karnataka MLAs began protesting outside the Vidhan Soudha. The JD(S)'s HD Kumaraswamy and his father HD Deve Gowda joined them. There was however one Congress MLA missing — Anand Singh. Singh, a mining baron who joined the Congress from the BJP just before the Karnataka elections, was also missing from the Congress Legislature Party meeting yesterday. "All MLAs are here except Anand Singh," Congress MP from Bangalore Rural DK Suresh said. "He is in (the) clutches of Narendra Modi," Suresh added. Kumaraswamy was even more forthcoming. "Modi government is misusing institutions of central government," he said. "I know they are threatening MLAs. All MLAs are here except Anand Singh, he is in clutches of Narendra Modi: DK Suresh, Congress MP at Vidhan Soudha in #Bengaluru pic.twitter.com/2h8F3q0IKF — ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018 × Modi govt is misusing institutions of central govt. I know they are threatening MLAs. Anand Singh (Cong MLA) told 'they are using ED, I had a case in ED & they are going to screw me. I'm sorry I have to protect my interest,' another Cong MLA who spoke to Singh told me-Kumaraswamy pic.twitter.com/QrzW8eHeAR — ANI (@ANI) May 17, 2018 × Kumaraswamy then said Singh had told another Congress MLA that, "They are using ED, I had a case in ED and they are going to screw me. I'm sorry I have to protect my interest." Kumaraswamy added that he had learnt what Anand Singh had said from the second Congress MLA.

First Congress MLA seems to break from Cong-JD(S) ranks

Israeli forces deployed forces on Tuesday (May 15) across Israel's border with the&nbspGazaStrip in preparation for another day of protests after the single deadliest day in&nbspGaza&nbspfor years.

Israeli gunfire killed more than 50 Palestinians on Monday (May 14) on the penultimate day of a six-week border protest by&nbspGazans demanding the right to return to ancestral homes that now lie on the other side of the&nbspGaza-Israel frontier fence.

Palestinians had planned for protests to reach a climax on Tuesday, the day Palestinians commemorated what they call the "Nakba" or "catastrophe" when hundreds of thousands of Palestinians were dispossessed when the state of Israel was created in 1948.

Israeli troops shot dead dozens of Palestinians taking part in protests on the&nbspGaza&nbspborderon Monday (May 14) as the United States opened its embassy to Israel in Jerusalem, a move that has fuelled Palestinian anger and drawn criticism from foreign governments as a setback to peace efforts.

Israeli gunfire killed more than 50 Palestinians on Monday (May 14) on the penultimate day of a six-week border protest by Gazans demanding the right to return to ancestral homes that now lie on the other side of the Gaza-Israel frontier fence

Israeli forces deployed forces on Tuesday (May 15) across Israel's border with the&nbspGazaStrip in preparation for another day of protests after the single deadliest day in&nbspGaza&nbspfor years. Israeli gunfire killed more than 50 Palestinians on Monday (May 14) on the penultimate day of a six-week border protest by&nbspGazans demanding the right to return to ancestral homes that now lie on the other side of the&nbspGaza-Israel frontier fence. Palestinians had planned for protests to reach a climax on Tuesday, the day Palestinians commemorated what they call the "Nakba" or "catastrophe" when hundreds of thousands of Palestinians were dispossessed when the state of Israel was created in 1948. Israeli troops shot dead dozens of Palestinians taking part in protests on the&nbspGaza&nbspborderon Monday (May 14) as the United States opened its embassy to Israel in Jerusalem, a move that has fuelled Palestinian anger and drawn criticism from foreign governments as a setback to peace efforts.

Israeli forces take up positions on Gaza border in preparation for protests

Pakistan's Khaigala city saw massive protests Sunday demanding justice for the PoK leader Sardar Arif Shahid.

Shahid, chairman of the All Parties National Alliance (APNA), was shot dead by unidentified gunmen at his home in Rawalpindi on May 14, 2013.&nbsp;

Shahid was allegedly killed&nbsp;by the ISI. Today is his fifth death anniversary.&nbsp;

Khaigala is Shahid's hometown.&nbsp;

The Jammu Kashmir National Independence Alliance (JKNIA) also organised a protest outside Pakistani consulate in Bradford and raised slogans against Pakistan for denying justice to Arif Shahid. 
They shouted slogans such as 'Who killed Arif Shahid? ISI... ISI...' and 'Pakistani forces... out... out...'

Protests were also staged outside the Pakistan Embassy in London on the same day. Activists of United Kashmir People's National Party and Jammu and Kashmir National Awami Party (JKNAP) demanded a judicial inquiry into the death of Sardar Arif Shahid, who was shot dead outside his residence in 2013.

"We want a judicial enquiry in the matter and we demand immediate arrest of the killers of Arif Shahid," Sajjad Raza, Jammu and Kashmir National Awami Party (UK) leader said.

Shahid, 62, was the chairman of the All Parties National Alliance (APNA). He was a vocal critic of Pakistan's nefarious activities in Jammu and Kashmir and a supporter of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir's freedom.

Arif Shahid, chairman of the All Parties National Alliance (APNA), was shot dead by unidentified gunmen at his home in Rawalpindi on May 14, 2013

Pakistan's Khaigala city saw massive protests Sunday demanding justice for the PoK leader Sardar Arif Shahid. Shahid, chairman of the All Parties National Alliance (APNA), was shot dead by unidentified gunmen at his home in Rawalpindi on May 14, 2013. Shahid was allegedly killed by the ISI. Today is his fifth death anniversary. Khaigala is Shahid's hometown. The Jammu Kashmir National Independence Alliance (JKNIA) also organised a protest outside Pakistani consulate in Bradford and raised slogans against Pakistan for denying justice to Arif Shahid. They shouted slogans such as 'Who killed Arif Shahid? ISI... ISI...' and 'Pakistani forces... out... out...' Protests were also staged outside the Pakistan Embassy in London on the same day. Activists of United Kashmir People's National Party and Jammu and Kashmir National Awami Party (JKNAP) demanded a judicial inquiry into the death of Sardar Arif Shahid, who was shot dead outside his residence in 2013. "We want a judicial enquiry in the matter and we demand immediate arrest of the killers of Arif Shahid," Sajjad Raza, Jammu and Kashmir National Awami Party (UK) leader said. Shahid, 62, was the chairman of the All Parties National Alliance (APNA). He was a vocal critic of Pakistan's nefarious activities in Jammu and Kashmir and a supporter of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir's freedom.

Protesting activists demand justice for PoK leader allegedly killed by ISI

Cannes film festival experienced something different this year as women were seen protesting regarding their status in the movie industry that needs to be improved to prevent sexual harassment. The protest was part of the ongoing global Times Up movement. 
 
The protest witnessed 82 women lead by Cate Blanchett and Kristen Stewart and was attended by the likes of Salma Hayek, Jane Fonda, Nandita Das, Ava Duvernay, Marion Cottilard and Patty Jenkins among others. The women were all prominent actors, filmmakers who were representing various countries at the festival.&nbsp;

Blanchett spoke about equality and stated how male filmmakers outnumber their female counterparts in award nominations. &nbsp;

Rasika Duggal, who is presently in Cannes for the premiere of her film Manto, lent support to the Time is Up event at the Cannes Film Festival 2018.“There are very few times when you are part of a historical moment and you know it. This was one of those. It was a very emotional experience holding hands and walking in solidarity with 82 women at Cannes. Not much was said but yet many of us were moved to tears. The unspoken regard and understanding and solidarity for the challenges we have all had to face to be here was so so powerful. It was my first time at the Palais de festivals red carpet at the Cannes film festival and I shared that moment with Salma Hayek, Patty Jenkins, Nandita Das and so many other women. I couldn't have asked for a better introduction. Cate Blanchett's powerful speech just made me feel more than ever how important this is. I mean we know there is rampant gender discrimination and we face it every day (in so so many small things) &nbsp;It was her first time at the Palais de festivals red carpet at the Cannes film festival and she shared that moment with Salma Hayek, Patty Jenkins, Nandita Das and so many other women.

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Finally got Twitter on my phone. Let me start from the beginning in <a href="https://twitter.com/Festival_Cannes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Festival_Cannes</a> was part of the 82 women who marched up the red carpet to ask for more representation of women. V moving experience. Holding hands in solidarity So glad to be a part of it <a href="https://t.co/4VBZWY5rwa">https://t.co/4VBZWY5rwa</a>
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After the iconic protest that took place on Saturday, France's Minister of Culture, Francoise Nyssen, said on Sunday, that few women work in movie-related fields in her country and they make less money than men. She also said many women become victims of discrimination, harassment, and violence.

Cannes experienced a historical movement wherein 82 well-known women, celebrities and filmmakers protests across different countries regarding their equal rights and gender equality

Cannes film festival experienced something different this year as women were seen protesting regarding their status in the movie industry that needs to be improved to prevent sexual harassment. The protest was part of the ongoing global Times Up movement. The protest witnessed 82 women lead by Cate Blanchett and Kristen Stewart and was attended by the likes of Salma Hayek, Jane Fonda, Nandita Das, Ava Duvernay, Marion Cottilard and Patty Jenkins among others. The women were all prominent actors, filmmakers who were representing various countries at the festival. Blanchett spoke about equality and stated how male filmmakers outnumber their female counterparts in award nominations. Rasika Duggal, who is presently in Cannes for the premiere of her film Manto, lent support to the Time is Up event at the Cannes Film Festival 2018.“There are very few times when you are part of a historical moment and you know it. This was one of those. It was a very emotional experience holding hands and walking in solidarity with 82 women at Cannes. Not much was said but yet many of us were moved to tears. The unspoken regard and understanding and solidarity for the challenges we have all had to face to be here was so so powerful. It was my first time at the Palais de festivals red carpet at the Cannes film festival and I shared that moment with Salma Hayek, Patty Jenkins, Nandita Das and so many other women. I couldn't have asked for a better introduction. Cate Blanchett's powerful speech just made me feel more than ever how important this is. I mean we know there is rampant gender discrimination and we face it every day (in so so many small things) It was her first time at the Palais de festivals red carpet at the Cannes film festival and she shared that moment with Salma Hayek, Patty Jenkins, Nandita Das and so many other women. Finally got Twitter on my phone. Let me start from the beginning in @Festival_Cannes was part of the 82 women who marched up the red carpet to ask for more representation of women. V moving experience. Holding hands in solidarity So glad to be a part of it https://t.co/4VBZWY5rwa — Nandita Das (@nanditadas) 14 May 2018 × After the iconic protest that took place on Saturday, France's Minister of Culture, Francoise Nyssen, said on Sunday, that few women work in movie-related fields in her country and they make less money than men. She also said many women become victims of discrimination, harassment, and violence.

Cannes 2018: 82 women converge at the red carpet demanding equal rights

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