A woman from Shahjahanpur in Uttar Pradesh accused Bhartiya Janta Party's MLA Roshanlal Verma's son Manoj Verma of sexually assaulting her and said that she has been receiving death threats.&nbsp

Roshanlal is MLA from Shahjahanpur's Tilhar constituency.

Demanding justice, the victim sat on a 'dharna' outside the Collectorate office in Shahjahanpur. She called off the protest only after superintendent of police (Shahjahanpur) KB Singh assured her of action.

A case has also been registered against the accused. As per reports, the sape case has been tranfered to the CB-CID on a directive issued by the state government.&nbsp

According to the lawyer of the victim, Avdhesh Singh, "Goons barged into the victim's residence and threatened her to withdraw her complaint, saying they would kill her if she didn't step back."

The victim, who is demanding justice from past five years, had also urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to ensure action against the accused.

Demanding justice, the victim sat on a 'dharna' outside the Collectorate office in Shahjahanpur. She called off the protest only after superintendent of police (Shahjahanpur) KB Singh assured her of action

A woman from Shahjahanpur in Uttar Pradesh accused Bhartiya Janta Party's MLA Roshanlal Verma's son Manoj Verma of sexually assaulting her and said that she has been receiving death threats. Roshanlal is MLA from Shahjahanpur's Tilhar constituency. Demanding justice, the victim sat on a 'dharna' outside the Collectorate office in Shahjahanpur. She called off the protest only after superintendent of police (Shahjahanpur) KB Singh assured her of action. A case has also been registered against the accused. As per reports, the sape case has been tranfered to the CB-CID on a directive issued by the state government. According to the lawyer of the victim, Avdhesh Singh, "Goons barged into the victim's residence and threatened her to withdraw her complaint, saying they would kill her if she didn't step back." The victim, who is demanding justice from past five years, had also urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to ensure action against the accused.

UP woman who alleged sexual assault by BJP MLA's son, claims threat to life

Members of the Gujjar community in Rajasthan on Sunday decided to revive their agitation over reservation granted to them.&nbsp

Gujjar leader Col Kirori Singh Bainsla was quoted saying by ANI that the community will launch an agitation before May 21 in Patoli, Pipalkheda, Dausa, Sikandra, Kotputli, Ajmer, Pali, Jalore, Bhilwara & Sawai Madhopur.&nbsp

Bainsla further added that their demands have not been met and the government is providing them with just 5% reservation.

The Gujjar leader said that injustice is being done to the community in all vacancies and informed that members of the community will launch an agitation this month to press for their demand of five per cent reservation from within OBC quota.

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Govt is providing us 5% reservation. Injustice is being done to us in all vacancies. We'll launch an agitation before May 21 in Patoli, Pipalkheda, Dausa, Sikandra, Kotputli, Ajmer, Pali, Jalore, Bhilwara & Sawai Madhopur: Col Kirori Singh Bainsla, Gujjar leader (06.05.2018) <a href="https://t.co/CwlMVE8oui">pic.twitter.com/CwlMVE8oui</a>
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Bainsla further added that their demands have not been met and the government is providing them with just 5% reservation.

Members of the Gujjar community in Rajasthan on Sunday decided to revive their agitation over reservation granted to them. Gujjar leader Col Kirori Singh Bainsla was quoted saying by ANI that the community will launch an agitation before May 21 in Patoli, Pipalkheda, Dausa, Sikandra, Kotputli, Ajmer, Pali, Jalore, Bhilwara & Sawai Madhopur. Bainsla further added that their demands have not been met and the government is providing them with just 5% reservation. The Gujjar leader said that injustice is being done to the community in all vacancies and informed that members of the community will launch an agitation this month to press for their demand of five per cent reservation from within OBC quota. Govt is providing us 5% reservation. Injustice is being done to us in all vacancies. We'll launch an agitation before May 21 in Patoli, Pipalkheda, Dausa, Sikandra, Kotputli, Ajmer, Pali, Jalore, Bhilwara & Sawai Madhopur: Col Kirori Singh Bainsla, Gujjar leader (06.05.2018) pic.twitter.com/CwlMVE8oui — ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2018 ×

Gujjar leaders decide to launch protest on reservation before May 21

By:&nbsp;Andries Bezuidenhout*

What is the ultimate song to celebrate Workers' Day? Many will suggest "The Internationale" which had its roots as a poem written in the aftermath of the Paris Commune in 1871 by Eugène Pottier, a transport worker. Set to music a few years later, it became the anthem for the wider progressive movement.

It served as the Soviet Union’s anthem after the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917, making it more closely associated with the communist movement.

But I would argue that trumpeter Hugh Masekela's iconic and internationally popular song "Stimela" – the coal train – is perhaps a more appropriate anthem for Workers' Day in southern and Central Africa. The song speaks aboutthe local history and the migrant labour system on the mines.

"Stimela" reminds everyone that South Africa's wealth and infrastructure was built on the back of labour from all over Africa. They were the force that modernised the country. But the song is also internationalist in focus.

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Later recordings of the song typically begin with bass rhythms and percussion mimicking the sound of a train on its tracks. Then the instruments retreat to the background and Masekela announces:

There is a train that comes from Namibia and Malawi

there is a train that comes from Zambia and Zimbabwe,

There is a train that comes from Angola and Mozambique,

From Lesotho, from Botswana, from Swaziland,

From all the hinterland of Southern and Central Africa.

This train carries young and old, African men

Who are conscripted to come and work on contract

In the golden mineral mines of Johannesburg

And its surrounding metropolis, sixteen hours or more a day

For almost no pay.

Early morning commute

Until recently I was responsible for teaching an introductory course in sociology to first-year university students. The auditorium in which I delivered the lectures had a beautiful sound system.

I’d plug in my computer and play music before lectures started. The music served two purposes. I liked to imagine that it allowed students to find some calm after their early morning commute from the city’s periphery on dilapidated trains.

It was also a way to introduce debates about key topics covered in the first year course.

I always started the first lecture of the year with Masekela’s "Stimela" because it was the perfect opening to a conversation about the forces that modernised South Africa.

South Africa's was not a slow, organic growth of industrialisation that characterised the European transition from feudalism to industrial capitalism, the great transformation that gave rise to my discipline of sociology, with Karl Marx as one of its key contributors.

The emergence of modern South Africa was brutal in a different way. It came about as a result of the discovery of diamonds and gold, and the need for cheap labour to extract metals from the seams that ran through the Witwatersrand's rock formations.

This was a story of labour shortages and the intervention of colonial administrations and armies across southern and Central Africa. They dispossessed pastoralists of their land and imposed hut and poll taxes on traditional leaders so that Johannesburg could be supplied with the much needed "Black Gold", as journalist-activist Ruth First described the system.

The song describes what’s on the minds of mining recruits on a steam train as it makes its way to Johannesburg: "They think about their lands, their herds that were taken away from them."

For Masekela, writing "Stimela" must have been, in part, a reflection on his own life. Born in the coal mining area called Witbank, he was raised by his grandmother who made her livelihood from a shebeen (an illegal bar) for mineworkers.

The legacy lives on

Up until the 1970s, when Masekela composed "Stimela" while he was in exile, South African mineworkers typically spent only a few years on the mines, saving up money or buying cattle to return to their lands.

But the 1970s was the time of great change in South Africa’s mining industry.

In 1974, 72 Malawian mineworkers were killed in an airplane crash. A year later, Mozambique became independent. Both Mozambique and Malawi were major suppliers of migrant workers to South African mines and these events put the steady flow of labour at risk.

In the case of Mozambique, the apartheid state was able to strike a deal with the new Mozambican government for the continued supply of labour. But Malawi withdrew permission for the recruitment of workers from their country.

The result was a shift to recruiting more South African workers and the emergence of career mine workers with much longer contracts. This change in the mining labour market eventually led to the founding of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) in 1982.

The successful organisation of workers who were at the heart of South Africa’s economy was one of the most important pillars of resistance against apartheid.

Sadly, the mining industry's contested legacy and its migrant labour system remain challenges in the post-apartheid period. This is evident in a number of ways. The massacre of mineworkers at Marikana in 2012 was a stark reminder of the acute vulnerability and exploitation of workers.

On top of this is the inability of the mining companies and the state to provide many mine workers – now often employed through subcontractors – with decent housing and services. And finally, the issue of land dispossession still haunts the country and remains unresolved.

Steam trains no longer crisscross southern Africa. Yet "Stimela" remains as much a song about the present and future aspirations, as it does of the past.

*Andries Bezuidenhout, Professor of Development Studies, University of Fort Hare

(This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-best-anthem-for-workers-day-stimela-a-tale-about-apartheids-migrant-labour-system-95794">original article</a>.)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL

Hugh Masekela's iconic and internationally popular song "Stimela" – the coal train – is perhaps a more appropriate anthem for Workers' Day in southern and Central Africa

By: Andries Bezuidenhout* What is the ultimate song to celebrate Workers' Day? Many will suggest "The Internationale" which had its roots as a poem written in the aftermath of the Paris Commune in 1871 by Eugène Pottier, a transport worker. Set to music a few years later, it became the anthem for the wider progressive movement. It served as the Soviet Union’s anthem after the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917, making it more closely associated with the communist movement. But I would argue that trumpeter Hugh Masekela's iconic and internationally popular song "Stimela" – the coal train – is perhaps a more appropriate anthem for Workers' Day in southern and Central Africa. The song speaks aboutthe local history and the migrant labour system on the mines. "Stimela" reminds everyone that South Africa's wealth and infrastructure was built on the back of labour from all over Africa. They were the force that modernised the country. But the song is also internationalist in focus. × Later recordings of the song typically begin with bass rhythms and percussion mimicking the sound of a train on its tracks. Then the instruments retreat to the background and Masekela announces: There is a train that comes from Namibia and Malawi there is a train that comes from Zambia and Zimbabwe, There is a train that comes from Angola and Mozambique, From Lesotho, from Botswana, from Swaziland, From all the hinterland of Southern and Central Africa. This train carries young and old, African men Who are conscripted to come and work on contract In the golden mineral mines of Johannesburg And its surrounding metropolis, sixteen hours or more a day For almost no pay. Early morning commute Until recently I was responsible for teaching an introductory course in sociology to first-year university students. The auditorium in which I delivered the lectures had a beautiful sound system. I’d plug in my computer and play music before lectures started. The music served two purposes. I liked to imagine that it allowed students to find some calm after their early morning commute from the city’s periphery on dilapidated trains. It was also a way to introduce debates about key topics covered in the first year course. I always started the first lecture of the year with Masekela’s "Stimela" because it was the perfect opening to a conversation about the forces that modernised South Africa. South Africa's was not a slow, organic growth of industrialisation that characterised the European transition from feudalism to industrial capitalism, the great transformation that gave rise to my discipline of sociology, with Karl Marx as one of its key contributors. The emergence of modern South Africa was brutal in a different way. It came about as a result of the discovery of diamonds and gold, and the need for cheap labour to extract metals from the seams that ran through the Witwatersrand's rock formations. This was a story of labour shortages and the intervention of colonial administrations and armies across southern and Central Africa. They dispossessed pastoralists of their land and imposed hut and poll taxes on traditional leaders so that Johannesburg could be supplied with the much needed "Black Gold", as journalist-activist Ruth First described the system. The song describes what’s on the minds of mining recruits on a steam train as it makes its way to Johannesburg: "They think about their lands, their herds that were taken away from them." For Masekela, writing "Stimela" must have been, in part, a reflection on his own life. Born in the coal mining area called Witbank, he was raised by his grandmother who made her livelihood from a shebeen (an illegal bar) for mineworkers. The legacy lives on Up until the 1970s, when Masekela composed "Stimela" while he was in exile, South African mineworkers typically spent only a few years on the mines, saving up money or buying cattle to return to their lands. But the 1970s was the time of great change in South Africa’s mining industry. In 1974, 72 Malawian mineworkers were killed in an airplane crash. A year later, Mozambique became independent. Both Mozambique and Malawi were major suppliers of migrant workers to South African mines and these events put the steady flow of labour at risk. In the case of Mozambique, the apartheid state was able to strike a deal with the new Mozambican government for the continued supply of labour. But Malawi withdrew permission for the recruitment of workers from their country. The result was a shift to recruiting more South African workers and the emergence of career mine workers with much longer contracts. This change in the mining labour market eventually led to the founding of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) in 1982. The successful organisation of workers who were at the heart of South Africa’s economy was one of the most important pillars of resistance against apartheid. Sadly, the mining industry's contested legacy and its migrant labour system remain challenges in the post-apartheid period. This is evident in a number of ways. The massacre of mineworkers at Marikana in 2012 was a stark reminder of the acute vulnerability and exploitation of workers. On top of this is the inability of the mining companies and the state to provide many mine workers – now often employed through subcontractors – with decent housing and services. And finally, the issue of land dispossession still haunts the country and remains unresolved. Steam trains no longer crisscross southern Africa. Yet "Stimela" remains as much a song about the present and future aspirations, as it does of the past. *Andries Bezuidenhout, Professor of Development Studies, University of Fort Hare (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL

Opinion: The best anthem for Labour Day

Armenian opposition leader Nikol Pashiyan told his supporters to stage protests on Tuesday in a bid to pressurize the parliament to elect him as Prime Minister and further warned of a "political tsunami" if top echelons of RPA and former presidents Serzh Sargsyan and Robert Kocharyan clings to power.&nbsp

While addressing the people at the National Assembly on Monday, Pashiyan said that &nbspSerzh Sargsyan and Robert Kocharyan had been threatening all the Armenian MP's and preventing them to vote for people's candidate, claiming that the duo plan to return to power.&nbsp

Pashinyan led days of protests that forced veteran leader Serzh Sarksyan to step down as prime minister last week and is the sole nominee to take over the role. But he needs approval from a parliament dominated by Sarksyan supporters.

As tens of thousands of people gathered in central Yerevan, Pashinyan told lawmakers before a vote on his candidacy that Sarksyan's backers in the ruling Republican Party should not snub the Armenian people's demands for change.

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"You would think that in the situation that has unfolded conclusions would have been drawn, but the Republican Party has started to play cat-and-mouse with the people," said Pashinyan, who had swapped his usual camouflage T-shirt for a suit and tie.

Addressing Republican Party officials, he said: "Your behaviour, treating the tolerance of the people as a weakness, could become the cause of a tsunami."

"I turn to the nation of the Republic of Armenia and every citizen of the Republic of Armenia," Pashinyan said in a speech broadcast live on two big screens to the crowd in the capital's central Republic Square.

"Don't stay at home, and right now, go out into the streets if you have not done it yet ... Flood out onto the streets and the squares of the capital and other towns in the republic."

People gathered at the venue waved the Armenian flag, blew horns and shouted "Nikol - prime minister!"

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The deadline for parliamentary factions to nominate their candidates ran out at 18:00 on Monday.

According to the Article 149 of the Armenia's Constitution, "In case the Prime Minister submits a resignation or in other cases of the office of the Prime Minister becoming vacant, the factions of the National Assembly shall be entitled to nominate candidates for Prime Minister within a period of seven days after accepting the resignation of the Government. The National Assembly shall elect the Prime Minister by majority of votes of the total number of Deputies."

National Assembly (NA) of Armenia will convene a special session on May 1, and the topic of the agenda will be the election of a new Prime Minister.

Pashiyan stated that taking the current delicate situation into consideration “we have created all conditions for Serzh Sargsyan and RPA’s top echelons to leave in a dignified manner”.

Pashinyan led days of protests that forced veteran leader Serzh Sarksyan to step down as prime minister last week and is the sole nominee to take over the role

Armenian opposition leader Nikol Pashiyan told his supporters to stage protests on Tuesday in a bid to pressurize the parliament to elect him as Prime Minister and further warned of a "political tsunami" if top echelons of RPA and former presidents Serzh Sargsyan and Robert Kocharyan clings to power. While addressing the people at the National Assembly on Monday, Pashiyan said that &nbspSerzh Sargsyan and Robert Kocharyan had been threatening all the Armenian MP's and preventing them to vote for people's candidate, claiming that the duo plan to return to power. Pashinyan led days of protests that forced veteran leader Serzh Sarksyan to step down as prime minister last week and is the sole nominee to take over the role. But he needs approval from a parliament dominated by Sarksyan supporters. As tens of thousands of people gathered in central Yerevan, Pashinyan told lawmakers before a vote on his candidacy that Sarksyan's backers in the ruling Republican Party should not snub the Armenian people's demands for change. "You would think that in the situation that has unfolded conclusions would have been drawn, but the Republican Party has started to play cat-and-mouse with the people," said Pashinyan, who had swapped his usual camouflage T-shirt for a suit and tie. Addressing Republican Party officials, he said: "Your behaviour, treating the tolerance of the people as a weakness, could become the cause of a tsunami." "I turn to the nation of the Republic of Armenia and every citizen of the Republic of Armenia," Pashinyan said in a speech broadcast live on two big screens to the crowd in the capital's central Republic Square. "Don't stay at home, and right now, go out into the streets if you have not done it yet ... Flood out onto the streets and the squares of the capital and other towns in the republic." People gathered at the venue waved the Armenian flag, blew horns and shouted "Nikol - prime minister!" The deadline for parliamentary factions to nominate their candidates ran out at 18:00 on Monday. According to the Article 149 of the Armenia's Constitution, "In case the Prime Minister submits a resignation or in other cases of the office of the Prime Minister becoming vacant, the factions of the National Assembly shall be entitled to nominate candidates for Prime Minister within a period of seven days after accepting the resignation of the Government. The National Assembly shall elect the Prime Minister by majority of votes of the total number of Deputies." National Assembly (NA) of Armenia will convene a special session on May 1, and the topic of the agenda will be the election of a new Prime Minister. Pashiyan stated that taking the current delicate situation into consideration “we have created all conditions for Serzh Sargsyan and RPA’s top echelons to leave in a dignified manner”.

Armenian leader warns of 'political turmoil' if not elected Prime Minister

Members of the Hazara community have been protesting in Quetta against "targeted killings" after two Hazara men were killed on Saturday.&nbsp;

The protest is being led by Jalila Haider in the shape of hunger strikes outside Quetta Press Club for the second day on Sunday. "We do not want roti (food), kapra (clothing) and makaan (housing). All we want is the right to life," former PPP lawmaker Nasir Shah said.

On Sunday, a protest rally was held by the Balochistan Shia Conference at Shuhada Chowk in Quetta. Members from other parties such as the Hazara Democratic Party, the Balochistan National Party, and the Jamhuri Watan Party were also present.

The Hazara community also demanded that Army Chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa meet the widows of the deceased men and hear their grievances.

Haider said that the hunger strike would carry on until the Hazara community is given the right security. The protesters claimed that over 2,000 Hazaras were killed and 3,000 others were injured in so-called "targeted attacks".

On April 1, a man from the Hazara community was shot dead by unidentified miscreants in Quetta's Qandhari Bazar, while a second person suffered bullet wounds.

The Hazara community has been severely affected by sectarian terrorism in Balochistan for years.&nbsp;

A Pakistani political activist Jalila Haider is leading the hunger strike outside the Quetta Press Club

Members of the Hazara community have been protesting in Quetta against "targeted killings" after two Hazara men were killed on Saturday. The protest is being led by Jalila Haider in the shape of hunger strikes outside Quetta Press Club for the second day on Sunday. "We do not want roti (food), kapra (clothing) and makaan (housing). All we want is the right to life," former PPP lawmaker Nasir Shah said. On Sunday, a protest rally was held by the Balochistan Shia Conference at Shuhada Chowk in Quetta. Members from other parties such as the Hazara Democratic Party, the Balochistan National Party, and the Jamhuri Watan Party were also present. The Hazara community also demanded that Army Chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa meet the widows of the deceased men and hear their grievances. Haider said that the hunger strike would carry on until the Hazara community is given the right security. The protesters claimed that over 2,000 Hazaras were killed and 3,000 others were injured in so-called "targeted attacks". On April 1, a man from the Hazara community was shot dead by unidentified miscreants in Quetta's Qandhari Bazar, while a second person suffered bullet wounds. The Hazara community has been severely affected by sectarian terrorism in Balochistan for years.

Pakistan: After 2 killed, Hazara community protests in Quetta for second day

Members of the Pashtun community called Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) staged a massive rally in Lahore's Mochi Gate on Sunday after the Punjab government's refusal to issue permits to the event. The community staged a series of protests against extrajudicial arrests and killings of members of the ethnic minority by security forces.

The killing of an aspiring model from the community - which makes up about 15 per cent of Pakistan's 207 million population - in January sparked the countrywide protests. The PTM will hold a rally on May 12 in Karachi. His death sparked protests who accused Pakistan's security forces of racial profiling, seeing all Pashtuns as Taliban simply because many insurgents in Afghanistan and Pakistan are recruited from among Pashtun tribesmen.

Among those who took the rostrum were Tahera Jalib — daughter of revolutionary poet Habib Jalib, whose father wrote Dastoor as well as Amina Masood Janjua of the Defence of Human Rights Pakistan, whose husband has been missing since 2005.

The groups leader 25-year-old Manzoor Pashteen, has become the face of the country's oppressed Pashtun, charging that in the name of its "war on terror" the military has used indiscriminate force as it hunts for Taliban hideouts in the tribal regions where the Pashtun dominate, imposing collective punishments like bulldozing the homes of family members of suspected militants and punishing entire villages for extremist attacks. Wearing his signature red embroidered cap and a dark, well-kept beard, Mansoor seems an unlikely leader.

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Manzoor Pashteen

On Sunday, he led another Pashtun Long March in Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, demanding protection and rights.

As per reports, Masood was involved with the Islamist militants which were denied by his family and close peers.

Even though the rallies have not been violent and more like peaceful demonstrations across the country, the authorities have boycotted the recent one staged in Lahore and also detained several leaders.

Manzoor has been demanding the release of all “missing people.” He posits that, if these missing people have committed any crime against the state of Pakistan, they should be tried as citizens of the state in courts of law.

Second, he has called for the establishment of a judicial commission in Pakistan, that assesses the legitimacy of extrajudicial killings committed so far. 
Finally, Manzoor has demanded that all landmines planted during security operations during the War on Terror, be cleared by authorities in FATA, that the paramilitary forces stop harassing Pashtun families on the pretext of search operations. Additionally, he demands that the number of security check posts be reduced in the northwestern areas and that Pashtun citizens of the state not be subjected to constant embarrassment.

Manzoor announced that the next stop for the movement would be Swat following which a gathering would be held in Karachi on May 12 — to mark the day when over 40 people were killed in the metropolis in 2007.

The district administration had earlier rejected an application by the Lahore Left Front for the PTM rally citing security concerns.

Punjab police officials — both male and female — provided security at the venue to ensure that no one entered the ground with weapons or sharp objects.

A number of PTM leaders were briefly detained on Saturday while workers found the venue of the rally flooded with water when they arrived to kickstart preparations today.

The killing of an aspiring model from the community - which makes up about 15 per cent of Pakistan's 207 million population - in January sparked the countrywide protests

Members of the Pashtun community called Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) staged a massive rally in Lahore's Mochi Gate on Sunday after the Punjab government's refusal to issue permits to the event. The community staged a series of protests against extrajudicial arrests and killings of members of the ethnic minority by security forces. The killing of an aspiring model from the community - which makes up about 15 per cent of Pakistan's 207 million population - in January sparked the countrywide protests. The PTM will hold a rally on May 12 in Karachi. His death sparked protests who accused Pakistan's security forces of racial profiling, seeing all Pashtuns as Taliban simply because many insurgents in Afghanistan and Pakistan are recruited from among Pashtun tribesmen. Among those who took the rostrum were Tahera Jalib — daughter of revolutionary poet Habib Jalib, whose father wrote Dastoor as well as Amina Masood Janjua of the Defence of Human Rights Pakistan, whose husband has been missing since 2005. The groups leader 25-year-old Manzoor Pashteen, has become the face of the country's oppressed Pashtun, charging that in the name of its "war on terror" the military has used indiscriminate force as it hunts for Taliban hideouts in the tribal regions where the Pashtun dominate, imposing collective punishments like bulldozing the homes of family members of suspected militants and punishing entire villages for extremist attacks. Wearing his signature red embroidered cap and a dark, well-kept beard, Mansoor seems an unlikely leader. Manzoor Pashteen On Sunday, he led another Pashtun Long March in Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, demanding protection and rights. As per reports, Masood was involved with the Islamist militants which were denied by his family and close peers. Even though the rallies have not been violent and more like peaceful demonstrations across the country, the authorities have boycotted the recent one staged in Lahore and also detained several leaders. Manzoor has been demanding the release of all “missing people.” He posits that, if these missing people have committed any crime against the state of Pakistan, they should be tried as citizens of the state in courts of law. Second, he has called for the establishment of a judicial commission in Pakistan, that assesses the legitimacy of extrajudicial killings committed so far. Finally, Manzoor has demanded that all landmines planted during security operations during the War on Terror, be cleared by authorities in FATA, that the paramilitary forces stop harassing Pashtun families on the pretext of search operations. Additionally, he demands that the number of security check posts be reduced in the northwestern areas and that Pashtun citizens of the state not be subjected to constant embarrassment. Manzoor announced that the next stop for the movement would be Swat following which a gathering would be held in Karachi on May 12 — to mark the day when over 40 people were killed in the metropolis in 2007. The district administration had earlier rejected an application by the Lahore Left Front for the PTM rally citing security concerns. Punjab police officials — both male and female — provided security at the venue to ensure that no one entered the ground with weapons or sharp objects. A number of PTM leaders were briefly detained on Saturday while workers found the venue of the rally flooded with water when they arrived to kickstart preparations today.

Meet Manzoor Pashteen, the man leading protests to defy Pakistan army

Hundreds took to the streets of Guadalajara on Tuesday (April 24) after Mexican authorities on Monday (April 23) said three missing Mexican students were killed last month in the western state of Jalisco and their bodies dissolved in acid after criminals confused them with members of a rival gang

Organizers of the student-led demonstration in the capital of Jalisco state said the government needed to do more to address disappearances and killings, especially of young people.

Criminal groups in Mexico often kidnap, torture, dismember and even dissolve their victims in acid and many of the remains are dumped in clandestine graves.

In 2014, 43 student teachers disappeared in the southern state of Guerrero and the government said they were kidnapped by police who handed them over to a criminal group that killed them and burnt their bodies.

The three film students were last seen in the municipality of Tonala after their car broke down and they were later kidnapped by at least six people, who tortured and killed them, according to Jalisco state prosecutors.

Prosecutors said the youths were confused with members of a another gang by gunmen from the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), which has become the most powerful in Mexico, according to U.S. authorities.

More than 25,000 people were murdered last year in Mexico. Homicides hit their highest level in records going back 20 years.

Organizers of the student-led demonstration in the capital of Jalisco state said the government needed to do more to address disappearances and killings, especially of young people

Hundreds took to the streets of Guadalajara on Tuesday (April 24) after Mexican authorities on Monday (April 23) said three missing Mexican students were killed last month in the western state of Jalisco and their bodies dissolved in acid after criminals confused them with members of a rival gang Organizers of the student-led demonstration in the capital of Jalisco state said the government needed to do more to address disappearances and killings, especially of young people. Criminal groups in Mexico often kidnap, torture, dismember and even dissolve their victims in acid and many of the remains are dumped in clandestine graves. In 2014, 43 student teachers disappeared in the southern state of Guerrero and the government said they were kidnapped by police who handed them over to a criminal group that killed them and burnt their bodies. The three film students were last seen in the municipality of Tonala after their car broke down and they were later kidnapped by at least six people, who tortured and killed them, according to Jalisco state prosecutors. Prosecutors said the youths were confused with members of a another gang by gunmen from the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), which has become the most powerful in Mexico, according to U.S. authorities. More than 25,000 people were murdered last year in Mexico. Homicides hit their highest level in records going back 20 years.

Protests erupt after Mexican authorities say three students killed, dissolved in acid

&nbsp;Armenian Prime Minister Serzh Sarksyan said on Monday he was resigning to help safeguard civic peace following almost two weeks of mass street protests that have plunged the impoverished ex-Soviet republic into political crisis.

Sarksyan, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, had served as Armenia's president for a decade until this month and had faced accusations of clinging to power when parliament elected him as prime minister last week.

Under a revised constitution, the prime minister now holds most power in the tiny southern Caucasus nation, while the presidency has become largely ceremonial.

Pressure on the 63-year-old to quit had increased sharply on Monday when unarmed soldiers in the capital Yerevan joined the anti-government protests, which first erupted on April 13.

Though peaceful, the tumult has threatened to destabilise Armenia, a key Russian ally in a volatile region riven by its decades-long, low-level conflict with Azerbaijan. Moscow, which has two military bases in Armenia, was closely watching events.

"I got it wrong," Sarksyan said in a statement issued by his office.

"In the current situation there are several solutions, but I won't choose any of them. It's not my style. I am quitting the country's leadership and the post of prime minister of Armenia."

He said he was bowing to protesters' demands and wanted his country to remain peaceful.

Armenia's 2025 dollar-denominated bond fell 0.83 cents after Sarksyan said he would resign, hitting a one-year low.

Former Armenian prime minister Karen Karapetyan, an ally of Sarksyan from his ruling pro-Russian Republican Party, was named as acting prime minister, Russia's RIA news agency reported, citing the Armenian government's press office.

Armenia's political parties in parliament now have seven days to put forward the name of a new prime minister. Sarksyan's allies remain in key positions in the government and it remains unclear whether his resignation will herald any real change. Protesters loudly celebrated Sarksyan's resignation.

Some hugged policemen in the street amid repeated cries of "Hurrah!", others beeped car horns, and some residents of Yerevan were even seen dancing outside.

The protests which toppled Sarksyan lasted for 11 days and saw tens of thousands of protesters march through Yerevan and other towns, blocking streets and staging sit-ins that disrupted daily life.

On Sunday police had detained three opposition leaders and nearly 200 protesters, drawing a rebuke from the European Union. Police released Nikol Pashinyan, a lawmaker regarded as the main opposition leader, on Monday.

Asked about the crisis on Monday before Sarksyan's resignation, the Kremlin called Armenia an "extraordinarily important country" for Russia, but dismissed the idea it might intervene, calling the crisis a domestic matter.

Last week Putin rang Sarksyan to congratulate him on becoming premier. As president, Sarksyan took Armenia, a country of about three million people, into a Russia-backed economic bloc and bought weapons from Moscow.

The protesters' complaints were mainly domestic and focussed on pervasive corruption and poverty in a country that won independence from Moscow in 1991 but has been hampered by its conflict with Azerbaijan over the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh and other issues.

But critics have also accused Sarkasyan of moving landlocked Armenia too close to Russia at the expense of better ties with the West and increased prosperity, and it was unclear whether his political demise could lead to a change in foreign policy.

In what may have been a turning point in the protests, soldiers wearing military uniforms marched through Yerevan on Monday morning with the protesters.

Images broadcast on the internet and social media showed the soldiers hugging protesters and waving the country's national flag, in a development the Armenian Defence Ministry condemned as illegal and promised to harshly punish.

Opposition leader Pashinyan had told Sarkasyan that his time was up in a tense meeting on Sunday.

"The situation in Armenia has changed, you don't have the power of which you are told," he had told him. "In Armenia, the power has passed to the people."

Sarksyan, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, had served as Armenia's president for a decade until this month and had faced accusations of clinging to power when parliament elected him as prime minister last week

Armenian Prime Minister Serzh Sarksyan said on Monday he was resigning to help safeguard civic peace following almost two weeks of mass street protests that have plunged the impoverished ex-Soviet republic into political crisis. Sarksyan, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, had served as Armenia's president for a decade until this month and had faced accusations of clinging to power when parliament elected him as prime minister last week. Under a revised constitution, the prime minister now holds most power in the tiny southern Caucasus nation, while the presidency has become largely ceremonial. Pressure on the 63-year-old to quit had increased sharply on Monday when unarmed soldiers in the capital Yerevan joined the anti-government protests, which first erupted on April 13. Though peaceful, the tumult has threatened to destabilise Armenia, a key Russian ally in a volatile region riven by its decades-long, low-level conflict with Azerbaijan. Moscow, which has two military bases in Armenia, was closely watching events. "I got it wrong," Sarksyan said in a statement issued by his office. "In the current situation there are several solutions, but I won't choose any of them. It's not my style. I am quitting the country's leadership and the post of prime minister of Armenia." He said he was bowing to protesters' demands and wanted his country to remain peaceful. Armenia's 2025 dollar-denominated bond fell 0.83 cents after Sarksyan said he would resign, hitting a one-year low. Former Armenian prime minister Karen Karapetyan, an ally of Sarksyan from his ruling pro-Russian Republican Party, was named as acting prime minister, Russia's RIA news agency reported, citing the Armenian government's press office. Armenia's political parties in parliament now have seven days to put forward the name of a new prime minister. Sarksyan's allies remain in key positions in the government and it remains unclear whether his resignation will herald any real change. Protesters loudly celebrated Sarksyan's resignation. Some hugged policemen in the street amid repeated cries of "Hurrah!", others beeped car horns, and some residents of Yerevan were even seen dancing outside. The protests which toppled Sarksyan lasted for 11 days and saw tens of thousands of protesters march through Yerevan and other towns, blocking streets and staging sit-ins that disrupted daily life. On Sunday police had detained three opposition leaders and nearly 200 protesters, drawing a rebuke from the European Union. Police released Nikol Pashinyan, a lawmaker regarded as the main opposition leader, on Monday. Asked about the crisis on Monday before Sarksyan's resignation, the Kremlin called Armenia an "extraordinarily important country" for Russia, but dismissed the idea it might intervene, calling the crisis a domestic matter. Last week Putin rang Sarksyan to congratulate him on becoming premier. As president, Sarksyan took Armenia, a country of about three million people, into a Russia-backed economic bloc and bought weapons from Moscow. The protesters' complaints were mainly domestic and focussed on pervasive corruption and poverty in a country that won independence from Moscow in 1991 but has been hampered by its conflict with Azerbaijan over the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh and other issues. But critics have also accused Sarkasyan of moving landlocked Armenia too close to Russia at the expense of better ties with the West and increased prosperity, and it was unclear whether his political demise could lead to a change in foreign policy. In what may have been a turning point in the protests, soldiers wearing military uniforms marched through Yerevan on Monday morning with the protesters. Images broadcast on the internet and social media showed the soldiers hugging protesters and waving the country's national flag, in a development the Armenian Defence Ministry condemned as illegal and promised to harshly punish. Opposition leader Pashinyan had told Sarkasyan that his time was up in a tense meeting on Sunday. "The situation in Armenia has changed, you don't have the power of which you are told," he had told him. "In Armenia, the power has passed to the people."

Armenian Prime Minister Serzh Sarksyan resigns following 11 day mass protest

Scores of protesters on Sunday gathered outside 10 Downing Street - the official residence of British Prime Minister - in London to protest against human rights violations in Balochistan by Pakistani authorities.

Baloch Republican Party's UK chapter posted pictures and a video clip of the same on Twitter.

Positing 10 pictures from their "official" Twitter handle, the party captioned them as "BRP urged @10DowningStreet & international community to take notice of massive Human Rights abuses being committed in #Balochistan by the Pakistani security forces. #HumanRights #London".

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Members of Baloch Republican Party UK, protested yesterday at 10 Downing Street in London against human rights violations in Balochistan by Pakistan and demanded an intervention by the United Kingdom. <a href="https://t.co/TFwwVtepeI">pic.twitter.com/TFwwVtepeI</a>
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On Sunday, Activists from Baloch Republican Party (BRP) and Baloch Republican Student Organisation (BRSO) on Sunday jointly held a protest demonstration outside Busan Station in South Korea to highlight war crimes and state atrocities allegedly being committed by the Pakistani military forces in Balochistan.

The party workers distributed informative pamphlets to the public and shouted slogans such as - "We want Freedom" and "Stop Killing Baloch" during the protest.

The Baloch activists have been trying to voice their concerns at multiple international platforms, including the United Nations.

Recently, at the 37th session of the Human Rights Council, activists raised the issue of enforced disappearances, torture and killings of several Baloch activists and intellectuals.

The Baloch activists have been trying to voice their concerns at multiple international platforms, including the United Nations

Scores of protesters on Sunday gathered outside 10 Downing Street - the official residence of British Prime Minister - in London to protest against human rights violations in Balochistan by Pakistani authorities. Baloch Republican Party's UK chapter posted pictures and a video clip of the same on Twitter. Positing 10 pictures from their "official" Twitter handle, the party captioned them as "BRP urged @10DowningStreet & international community to take notice of massive Human Rights abuses being committed in #Balochistan by the Pakistani security forces. #HumanRights #London". Members of Baloch Republican Party UK, protested yesterday at 10 Downing Street in London against human rights violations in Balochistan by Pakistan and demanded an intervention by the United Kingdom. pic.twitter.com/TFwwVtepeI — ANI (@ANI) April 23, 2018 × On Sunday, Activists from Baloch Republican Party (BRP) and Baloch Republican Student Organisation (BRSO) on Sunday jointly held a protest demonstration outside Busan Station in South Korea to highlight war crimes and state atrocities allegedly being committed by the Pakistani military forces in Balochistan. The party workers distributed informative pamphlets to the public and shouted slogans such as - "We want Freedom" and "Stop Killing Baloch" during the protest. The Baloch activists have been trying to voice their concerns at multiple international platforms, including the United Nations. Recently, at the 37th session of the Human Rights Council, activists raised the issue of enforced disappearances, torture and killings of several Baloch activists and intellectuals.

Baloch activists now protest in London after Seoul

Starbucks Corp&nbsp;will close 8,000 company-owned US cafes for the afternoon on May 29 so 175,000 employees can undergo racial tolerance training in response to protests and calls for boycotts after the arrest of two black men waiting in a Philadelphia store.

Starbucks will be working with Bryan Stevenson, founder and executive director of the Equal Justice Initiative Sherrilyn Ifill, president and director-counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund Heather McGhee, president of Demos former US&nbsp;Attorney General Eric Holder and Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League to create this program.

Once the company has completed this training at its company-owned locations it will make it available to its licensed partners.

The company said in the Tuesday announcement that it will also provide training materials for non-company workers at the roughly 6,000 licensed Starbucks cafes that will remain open in locations such as grocery stores and airports.

The announcement from world’s biggest coffee company comes as it tries to cool tensions after the Philadelphia incident last week sparked accusations of racial profiling at the chain, which is the subject of a boycott campaign on social media.

During the early demonstration that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/protests-over-arrest-of-two-afro-american-men-in-starbucks-heightens-shop-briefly-closed-130968">forced the store to close </a>in Philadelphia on Tuesday, protesters called the mammoth coffee chain "anti-black." The store reopened hours later.

Starbucks Corp Chief Executive Kevin Johnson hopes to meet with the two afro men arrested at one of its Philadelphia cafes last week to apologise for the incident, which has sparked accusations of racial profiling at the coffee chain.

The men, who had not made a purchase, were handcuffed and arrested for trespassing on Thursday after a store manager called 911 and reported them for refusing to leave. Witnesses said the men were calmly sitting in the cafe and in a widely viewed video, some patrons asked police whether they were targeted because they are black.

Police released the men, who were not charged.

The outlets will shut down for the afternoon on May 29. The move comes after a Starbucks employee called the police on two black patrons in Philadelphia

Starbucks Corp will close 8,000 company-owned US cafes for the afternoon on May 29 so 175,000 employees can undergo racial tolerance training in response to protests and calls for boycotts after the arrest of two black men waiting in a Philadelphia store. Starbucks will be working with Bryan Stevenson, founder and executive director of the Equal Justice Initiative Sherrilyn Ifill, president and director-counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund Heather McGhee, president of Demos former US Attorney General Eric Holder and Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League to create this program. Once the company has completed this training at its company-owned locations it will make it available to its licensed partners. The company said in the Tuesday announcement that it will also provide training materials for non-company workers at the roughly 6,000 licensed Starbucks cafes that will remain open in locations such as grocery stores and airports. The announcement from world’s biggest coffee company comes as it tries to cool tensions after the Philadelphia incident last week sparked accusations of racial profiling at the chain, which is the subject of a boycott campaign on social media. During the early demonstration that forced the store to close in Philadelphia on Tuesday, protesters called the mammoth coffee chain "anti-black." The store reopened hours later. Starbucks Corp Chief Executive Kevin Johnson hopes to meet with the two afro men arrested at one of its Philadelphia cafes last week to apologise for the incident, which has sparked accusations of racial profiling at the coffee chain. The men, who had not made a purchase, were handcuffed and arrested for trespassing on Thursday after a store manager called 911 and reported them for refusing to leave. Witnesses said the men were calmly sitting in the cafe and in a widely viewed video, some patrons asked police whether they were targeted because they are black. Police released the men, who were not charged.

US: 8,000 Starbucks outlets to shut for racial-tolerance training

Protesting minority Hindu families residing in the Yazman Tehsil, which is approximately 30-kilometres from Bahawalpur, have come out onto the streets to demand the recovery of the minor girl allegedly abducted five days ago.

According to the Dawn, the protesting Hindus maintained that 12-year-old Rimshah was abducted by some local people.

The Dawn quoted Hari Chand, her father, as telling police in his complaint, that Ata Muhammad, Saghir Ahmed and Wazir Bibi had abducted his daughter.

A spokesman of the District Police Chief's Office was quoted, as saying that a Hindu community delegation has been asked to wait for 24 hours for the recovery of the girl.

Meanwhile, in a separate development, posters featuring images of the senior PML-N leadership, including President Shahbaz Sharif, Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Member of the National Assembly Hamza Shahbaz were defaced by unidentified persons during a protest held near the Bahawal Victoria Hospital.

Reportedly, there is a growing feeling that Bahawalpur is being neglected by the Punjab provincial government.&nbsp;

A spokesman of the District Police Chief's Office was quoted, as saying that a Hindu community delegation has been asked to wait for 24 hours for the recovery of the girl.

Protesting minority Hindu families residing in the Yazman Tehsil, which is approximately 30-kilometres from Bahawalpur, have come out onto the streets to demand the recovery of the minor girl allegedly abducted five days ago. According to the Dawn, the protesting Hindus maintained that 12-year-old Rimshah was abducted by some local people. The Dawn quoted Hari Chand, her father, as telling police in his complaint, that Ata Muhammad, Saghir Ahmed and Wazir Bibi had abducted his daughter. A spokesman of the District Police Chief's Office was quoted, as saying that a Hindu community delegation has been asked to wait for 24 hours for the recovery of the girl. Meanwhile, in a separate development, posters featuring images of the senior PML-N leadership, including President Shahbaz Sharif, Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Member of the National Assembly Hamza Shahbaz were defaced by unidentified persons during a protest held near the Bahawal Victoria Hospital. Reportedly, there is a growing feeling that Bahawalpur is being neglected by the Punjab provincial government.

Pakistan: Hindu families protest abduction of minor

Protests over the arrest of two afro men after being told to walk out of Starbucks in Philadelphia has&nbsp;led to a brief shutdown of the&nbsp;coffee shop.&nbsp;

During the early demonstration that forced the store to close, protesters called the mammoth coffee chain "anti-black." The store reopened hours later.

Starbucks Corp Chief Executive Kevin Johnson hopes to meet with the two afro men arrested at one of its Philadelphia cafes last week to apologise for the incident, which has sparked accusations of racial profiling at the coffee chain.

The men, who had not made a purchase, were handcuffed and arrested for trespassing on Thursday after a store manager called 911 and reported them for refusing to leave. Witnesses said the men were calmly sitting in the cafe and in a widely viewed video, some patrons asked police whether they were targeted because they are black.

Police released the men, who were not charged.

"The circumstances surrounding the incident and the outcome in our store on Thursday were reprehensible ... they were wrong," Johnson told ABC's Good Morning America on Monday, amid protests and calls for a boycott on social media.

The men, who have not been identified, initially asked to use the restroom inside the Starbucks on Thursday but were told the cafe's bathrooms were for customers only. They then occupied a table without making a purchase, which many observers have noted is a common occurrence at the franchise's locations.

The female manager who reported the men to police has left the company, a Starbucks representative said.

The incident came at a time when the company is grappling with flat traffic and lacklustre sales growth at its more than 14,000 U.S. cafes. It is a high-profile public relations test for Johnson, a former technology executive who took the helm at Starbucks roughly a year ago.

Johnson, who was interviewed from Philadelphia, said it was "completely inappropriate to engage the police." He added that Starbucks would conduct training to prevent unconscious bias.

Representatives for the two men could not immediately be reached.

(With inputs from Reuters)

During the early demonstration that forced the store to close, protesters called the mammoth coffee chain 'anti-black.' The store reopened hours later

Protests over the arrest of two afro men after being told to walk out of Starbucks in Philadelphia has led to a brief shutdown of the coffee shop. During the early demonstration that forced the store to close, protesters called the mammoth coffee chain "anti-black." The store reopened hours later. Starbucks Corp Chief Executive Kevin Johnson hopes to meet with the two afro men arrested at one of its Philadelphia cafes last week to apologise for the incident, which has sparked accusations of racial profiling at the coffee chain. The men, who had not made a purchase, were handcuffed and arrested for trespassing on Thursday after a store manager called 911 and reported them for refusing to leave. Witnesses said the men were calmly sitting in the cafe and in a widely viewed video, some patrons asked police whether they were targeted because they are black. Police released the men, who were not charged. "The circumstances surrounding the incident and the outcome in our store on Thursday were reprehensible ... they were wrong," Johnson told ABC's Good Morning America on Monday, amid protests and calls for a boycott on social media. The men, who have not been identified, initially asked to use the restroom inside the Starbucks on Thursday but were told the cafe's bathrooms were for customers only. They then occupied a table without making a purchase, which many observers have noted is a common occurrence at the franchise's locations. The female manager who reported the men to police has left the company, a Starbucks representative said. The incident came at a time when the company is grappling with flat traffic and lacklustre sales growth at its more than 14,000 U.S. cafes. It is a high-profile public relations test for Johnson, a former technology executive who took the helm at Starbucks roughly a year ago. Johnson, who was interviewed from Philadelphia, said it was "completely inappropriate to engage the police." He added that Starbucks would conduct training to prevent unconscious bias. Representatives for the two men could not immediately be reached. (With inputs from Reuters)

US: Protests over arrest of two African-American men at Starbucks heightens, shop closes briefly

Several websites in Bangladesh including those of the Bangladesh government, PM Office and the president’s office Bangabhaban were hacked following protest against quotas in government jobs on Tuesday, reports said.&nbsp;

As per reports, the websites were replaced with a page that showed messages related to the quota reform along with a picture of the ongoing protest.&nbsp;

“Hacked by Bangladesh,” the title of the page said.

Reportedly, there have also been a number of attempts to hack the National Portal for quite a few days. The websites of home ministry, education ministry and agriculture ministry and the same of public service commission (PSC) were found hacked around 12am Wednesday.

Telecommunications and Information Technology (ICT) Minister Mustafa Jabbar said that the intelligent department was in process of solving the issue and find the ones responsible for the cyber attack.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/students-acros-bangladesh-stage-anti-quota-protest-100-students-injured-129738">Thousands of students </a>staged a protest across Bangladesh which started on Sunday against discriminatory quotas for government jobs in favor of special groups which also left 100 students injured at the country’s top university left after clashes.&nbsp;

Hundreds of university students across Bangladesh blockaded roads on Tuesday in the third day of protests against what they say are discriminatory quotas for government jobs. Students took to the streets in Dhaka and elsewhere despite assurances from the government that it would review the controversial quota system.

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&nbsp;

As per reports, the websites were replaced with a page that showed messages related to the quota reform along with a picture of the ongoing protest

Several websites in Bangladesh including those of the Bangladesh government, PM Office and the president’s office Bangabhaban were hacked following protest against quotas in government jobs on Tuesday, reports said. As per reports, the websites were replaced with a page that showed messages related to the quota reform along with a picture of the ongoing protest. “Hacked by Bangladesh,” the title of the page said. Reportedly, there have also been a number of attempts to hack the National Portal for quite a few days. The websites of home ministry, education ministry and agriculture ministry and the same of public service commission (PSC) were found hacked around 12am Wednesday. Telecommunications and Information Technology (ICT) Minister Mustafa Jabbar said that the intelligent department was in process of solving the issue and find the ones responsible for the cyber attack. Thousands of students staged a protest across Bangladesh which started on Sunday against discriminatory quotas for government jobs in favor of special groups which also left 100 students injured at the country’s top university left after clashes. Hundreds of university students across Bangladesh blockaded roads on Tuesday in the third day of protests against what they say are discriminatory quotas for government jobs. Students took to the streets in Dhaka and elsewhere despite assurances from the government that it would review the controversial quota system. ×

Watch: Several websites displaying quota reform messages hacked in Bangladesh

Thousands of students staged a protest across Bangladesh which started on Sunday against discriminatory quotas for government jobs in favour of special groups which also left 100 students injured at the country’s top university left after clashes.&nbsp;

Hundreds of university students across Bangladesh blockaded roads on Tuesday in the third day of protests against what they say are discriminatory quotas for government jobs. Students took to the streets in Dhaka and elsewhere despite assurances from the government that it would review the controversial quota system.

The mass protests roiling campuses across the country have been among the biggest faced by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in her decade in power.

"We'll continue our agitation until the authorities accept our demands," said Rahat, one of the roughly 500 students camped out at the university's main square.

Following the violence that erupted on Sunday and continued into the early hours of Monday, classes at Dhaka University ground to a halt as thousands occupied the main square chanting “Reform, reform!” Students at state-run universities in Chittagong, Khulna, Rajshahi, Barisal, Rangpur, Sylhet and Savar also boycotted classes and staged sit-ins, police and media said.

At Jahangirnagar University alone, more than 1,000 students joined the demonstrations, said Ataur Rahman, a protester in Savar where the university is located.

The students are angry at the government’s decision to set aside 56% of civil service jobs for the families of veterans from the 1971 war of independence and for disadvantaged minorities.

The Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, discussed the quota issue at its weekly meeting on Monday, said cabinet secretary Shafiul Alam. She has asked senior Minister Obaidul Quader to hold a meeting with the protest leaders, he said.

Hundreds of police patrolled key entry points to the campus.

Organisers in Dhaka said they had been holding peaceful protests on Sunday when police started firing tear gas and rubber bullets, and used batons and water cannon to clear a central square.

"More than 100 people were injured," police inspector Bacchu Mia told AFP, adding they were treated in hospital but their condition was not serious.

Protesters threw rocks, vandalised the home of the Dhaka University vice-chancellor, torched two cars and ransacked the fine arts institute, said senior police officer Azimul Haque.

Hasan Al Mamun, a leader of the protests, said tens of thousands of students joined the demonstrations nationwide. Police declined to estimate the number.

Al Mamun said the quota for top-grade jobs should be reduced to only 10 per cent.

"These quotas are discriminatory. Due to the quota system, 56 per cent of the jobs are set aside for five per cent of the country's population. And 95 per cent of the people can compete for the 44 per cent," he said.

Students are particularly upset at the 30 per cent quota set aside for descendants of veterans of the independence war.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Students are particularly upset at the 30 per cent quota set aside for descendants of veterans of the independence war

Thousands of students staged a protest across Bangladesh which started on Sunday against discriminatory quotas for government jobs in favour of special groups which also left 100 students injured at the country’s top university left after clashes. Hundreds of university students across Bangladesh blockaded roads on Tuesday in the third day of protests against what they say are discriminatory quotas for government jobs. Students took to the streets in Dhaka and elsewhere despite assurances from the government that it would review the controversial quota system. The mass protests roiling campuses across the country have been among the biggest faced by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in her decade in power. "We'll continue our agitation until the authorities accept our demands," said Rahat, one of the roughly 500 students camped out at the university's main square. Following the violence that erupted on Sunday and continued into the early hours of Monday, classes at Dhaka University ground to a halt as thousands occupied the main square chanting “Reform, reform!” Students at state-run universities in Chittagong, Khulna, Rajshahi, Barisal, Rangpur, Sylhet and Savar also boycotted classes and staged sit-ins, police and media said. At Jahangirnagar University alone, more than 1,000 students joined the demonstrations, said Ataur Rahman, a protester in Savar where the university is located. The students are angry at the government’s decision to set aside 56% of civil service jobs for the families of veterans from the 1971 war of independence and for disadvantaged minorities. The Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, discussed the quota issue at its weekly meeting on Monday, said cabinet secretary Shafiul Alam. She has asked senior Minister Obaidul Quader to hold a meeting with the protest leaders, he said. Hundreds of police patrolled key entry points to the campus. Organisers in Dhaka said they had been holding peaceful protests on Sunday when police started firing tear gas and rubber bullets, and used batons and water cannon to clear a central square. "More than 100 people were injured," police inspector Bacchu Mia told AFP, adding they were treated in hospital but their condition was not serious. Protesters threw rocks, vandalised the home of the Dhaka University vice-chancellor, torched two cars and ransacked the fine arts institute, said senior police officer Azimul Haque. Hasan Al Mamun, a leader of the protests, said tens of thousands of students joined the demonstrations nationwide. Police declined to estimate the number. Al Mamun said the quota for top-grade jobs should be reduced to only 10 per cent. "These quotas are discriminatory. Due to the quota system, 56 per cent of the jobs are set aside for five per cent of the country's population. And 95 per cent of the people can compete for the 44 per cent," he said. Students are particularly upset at the 30 per cent quota set aside for descendants of veterans of the independence war. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: At least 100 students injured in Bangladesh anti-quota protests

Dalit organisations staging fresh protests and called for a strike in Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, on Monday over alleged&nbsp;dilusion of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.&nbsp;

The strike call&nbsp;was called by 30 Dalit organisations, reports said. It was also reported that the protestors blocked vehicles and shutdown shops, Dalit activists are laying siege on road at Thiruvananthapuram.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Police arrested Dalit activist and Aadivasi Gothra Mahasabha leader Geethanandan and held 15 others as well for allegedly blocking vehicles at Kochi.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/scheduled-caste-and-scheduled-tribe-act-why-the-dalits-are-protesting-127874">Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Act: Why the Dalits are protesting</a>

Police have beefed up security across the state with reports of violence expected as&nbsp;a result of the strike-call. Kerala Vypari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samiti refused to support the strike&nbsp;and announced shops will be open on Monday, reports said.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a>: Members of Dalit community organisations stage protest in Thiruvananthapuram over SC/ST Act issue. <a href="https://t.co/WstiaLqCmA">pic.twitter.com/WstiaLqCmA</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/983181439738015744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/-dalit-community-being-tortured-during-bharat-bandh-bjp-lawmaker-udit-raj-129068">Dalit community being 'tortured' after Bharat Bandh: BJP lawmaker Udit Raj</a>

As the Dalit agitation continued on Sunday, Congress leader Nitin Raut said Dalits, who are "angry" with the NDA government, will play a key role in deciding the country's next prime minister a year down the line.

Newly-appointed chairman of the Congress' SC department Raut said Dalit youth will get attracted to Gandhi's leadership for a positive future than other non-BJP/NDA leaders, including those representing the community.

Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-reaches-out-to-dalit-community-says-no-one-respected-ambedkar-the-way-our-govt-has-128296">Narendra Modi </a>on April 4 had said no regime had honoured B R Ambedkar as his government had.

Modi's remarks come soon after widespread protests, some turning violent, in different parts of the country over a Supreme Court verdict putting in place safeguards to prevent misuse of a law to prevent atrocities of SCs and STs.

The violence swept across north India, with Dalits protesting against a recent Supreme Court order on the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The Supreme Court order bans the automatic arrest and filing of cases against people accused under the act.

Dalits have been protesting against a recent Supreme Court order on the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act

Dalit organisations staging fresh protests and called for a strike in Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, on Monday over alleged dilusion of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The strike call was called by 30 Dalit organisations, reports said. It was also reported that the protestors blocked vehicles and shutdown shops, Dalit activists are laying siege on road at Thiruvananthapuram. Meanwhile, Police arrested Dalit activist and Aadivasi Gothra Mahasabha leader Geethanandan and held 15 others as well for allegedly blocking vehicles at Kochi. Also read: Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Act: Why the Dalits are protesting Police have beefed up security across the state with reports of violence expected as a result of the strike-call. Kerala Vypari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samiti refused to support the strike and announced shops will be open on Monday, reports said. #Kerala: Members of Dalit community organisations stage protest in Thiruvananthapuram over SC/ST Act issue. pic.twitter.com/WstiaLqCmA — ANI (@ANI) April 9, 2018 × Also read: Dalit community being 'tortured' after Bharat Bandh: BJP lawmaker Udit Raj As the Dalit agitation continued on Sunday, Congress leader Nitin Raut said Dalits, who are "angry" with the NDA government, will play a key role in deciding the country's next prime minister a year down the line. Newly-appointed chairman of the Congress' SC department Raut said Dalit youth will get attracted to Gandhi's leadership for a positive future than other non-BJP/NDA leaders, including those representing the community. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 4 had said no regime had honoured B R Ambedkar as his government had. Modi's remarks come soon after widespread protests, some turning violent, in different parts of the country over a Supreme Court verdict putting in place safeguards to prevent misuse of a law to prevent atrocities of SCs and STs. The violence swept across north India, with Dalits protesting against a recent Supreme Court order on the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The Supreme Court order bans the automatic arrest and filing of cases against people accused under the act.

SC/ST Act: Dalit organisations call for shutdown in Kerala

BSP chief Mayawati on Sunday hailed the Bharat bandh protest that swept across north India, with Dalits protesting against a recent Supreme Court order on the SC/ST, saying that the protests were successful.&nbsp;

Mayawati also claimed that the protests has "left the BJP scared&nbsp;and authorities in the BJP ruled states have started atrocities towards Dalits." She said that she "trusted that the Dalit community will not forgive the&nbsp;selfish and corrupt people of the BJP Dalit MP's."

Around 400 Dalits were arrested during the violence that erupted during the protests against a proposed review of the SC/ST Act after which&nbsp;Mayawati&nbsp;warned the government against harassment of Dalits in the garb of maintaining law and order.

Protests were organised across north India by Dalit outfits against the alleged dilution of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BharatBandh?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BharatBandh</a> protest was largely successful. This has left the BJP scared and authorities in the BJP ruled states have started atrocities towards dalits. Many dalits and members of their families are being arrested : BSP Chief Mayawati <a href="https://t.co/WHRIWnjUIQ">pic.twitter.com/WHRIWnjUIQ</a>
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Mujhe bharosa hai ki desh ke swabhimaani dalit samaaj ke log swaarthi aur bekau maansikta wale sansadon (BJP dalit MPs) ko maaf karne wale nahi hain: BSP Chief Mayawati <a href="https://t.co/8rUZysxUvK">pic.twitter.com/8rUZysxUvK</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/982852694397382656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Moreover,&nbsp;BJP parliamentarian <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/-dalit-community-being-tortured-during-bharat-bandh-bjp-lawmaker-udit-raj-129068">Udit Raj </a>on Saturday alleged that members of the Dalit community are "tortured" in various parts of the country after violence broke out during the 'Bharat Bandh' earlier this week.

Raj said on Sunday that "on April 2, Dalit agitation was held at a massive scale. The point of worry is that after the agitation those who were part of the agitation are being targeted and false cases are being slapped on them and also being beaten, this is a cause of concern."

He further appealed "to Party and government that they must look into this immediately. I am not one of those Dalit leaders and party members who'll keep quiet in my own interest, not telling the Party at right time would have been a selfish act. Two-and-a-half years ago I said that Dalits are getting angry."&nbsp;

The Supreme Court order bans the automatic arrest and filing of cases against people accused under the act. The court had wanted to put a stop to frivolous allegations, but the Dalits view the move as a watering down of the act. India's Dalit community still faces massive discrimination and violence at the hands of India's upper caste and OBC communities.

​​​​​​

&nbsp;

Protests were organised across north India by Dalit outfits against the alleged dilution of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act

BSP chief Mayawati on Sunday hailed the Bharat bandh protest that swept across north India, with Dalits protesting against a recent Supreme Court order on the SC/ST, saying that the protests were successful. Mayawati also claimed that the protests has "left the BJP scared and authorities in the BJP ruled states have started atrocities towards Dalits." She said that she "trusted that the Dalit community will not forgive the selfish and corrupt people of the BJP Dalit MP's." Around 400 Dalits were arrested during the violence that erupted during the protests against a proposed review of the SC/ST Act after which Mayawati warned the government against harassment of Dalits in the garb of maintaining law and order. Protests were organised across north India by Dalit outfits against the alleged dilution of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. #BharatBandh protest was largely successful. This has left the BJP scared and authorities in the BJP ruled states have started atrocities towards dalits. Many dalits and members of their families are being arrested : BSP Chief Mayawati pic.twitter.com/WHRIWnjUIQ — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 8, 2018 × Mujhe bharosa hai ki desh ke swabhimaani dalit samaaj ke log swaarthi aur bekau maansikta wale sansadon (BJP dalit MPs) ko maaf karne wale nahi hain: BSP Chief Mayawati pic.twitter.com/8rUZysxUvK — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 8, 2018 × Moreover, BJP parliamentarian Udit Raj on Saturday alleged that members of the Dalit community are "tortured" in various parts of the country after violence broke out during the 'Bharat Bandh' earlier this week. Raj said on Sunday that "on April 2, Dalit agitation was held at a massive scale. The point of worry is that after the agitation those who were part of the agitation are being targeted and false cases are being slapped on them and also being beaten, this is a cause of concern." He further appealed "to Party and government that they must look into this immediately. I am not one of those Dalit leaders and party members who'll keep quiet in my own interest, not telling the Party at right time would have been a selfish act. Two-and-a-half years ago I said that Dalits are getting angry." The Supreme Court order bans the automatic arrest and filing of cases against people accused under the act. The court had wanted to put a stop to frivolous allegations, but the Dalits view the move as a watering down of the act. India's Dalit community still faces massive discrimination and violence at the hands of India's upper caste and OBC communities.

Bharat Bandh protests have left BJP scared: BSP supremo Mayawati

Members if the Telugu Dasam Party (TDP) on Sunday protested outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence in Lok Kalyan Marg on Sunday morning demanding special status for Andhra Pradesh.

&nbsp;

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Delhi: TDP MPs protest outside prime minister's residence at Lok Kalyan Marg over demand of special category status for Andhra Pradesh. <a href="https://t.co/qHOzGjuGIq">pic.twitter.com/qHOzGjuGIq</a>
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The MP's were forced to leave from Modi's residence and were packed in buses which took them to Tughlaq Road Police Station, although, they continued to shout slogans and wave placards against the BJP-led central government.

Reports said that no case had been lodged against them and the protestors&nbsp;have been taken into&nbsp;preventive custody.

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Delhi: TDP MPs detained as they staged protest outside prime minister's residence at Lok Kalyan Marg over demand of special category status for Andhra Pradesh. <a href="https://t.co/kLR6VvZwQf">pic.twitter.com/kLR6VvZwQf</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/982843561820479489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The TDP members had been noisily protesting in both Houses of Parliament holding placards etc, demanding special category status to Andhra Pradesh as well as implementation of all the promises made in the AP Reorganisation Act-2014. Around mid-March, having quit the NDA, they gave no-confidence motion against the government but it was not admitted by the Speaker.

Even as the Lok Sabha was adjourned sine die without the no-confidence motion against the NDA government being taken up, TDP president and chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu called for bicycle rallies by party leaders and cadre across the state to highlight the “injustice meted out to Andhra Pradesh”.

Naidu himself led a bicycle rally from Venkatayapalem village in Amaravati to the state legislative assembly at Velagapudi, which is three kilometres away. He was accompanied by cabinet colleagues, including his son Nara Lokesh, besides several MLAs, MLCs and party leaders.

In a teleconference held earlier, Naidu asked party MPs to bring the issue to the President’s notice. He also referred to the absence of YSR Congress MPs from the Opposition’s human chain protest in Parliament on Thursday to allege that they were acting in collusion with the BJP.&nbsp;

The TDP members had been noisily protesting in both Houses of Parliament holding placards etc, demanding special category status to Andhra Pradesh as well as implementation of all the promises made in the AP Reorganisation Act-2014

Members if the Telugu Dasam Party (TDP) on Sunday protested outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence in Lok Kalyan Marg on Sunday morning demanding special status for Andhra Pradesh. Delhi: TDP MPs protest outside prime minister's residence at Lok Kalyan Marg over demand of special category status for Andhra Pradesh. pic.twitter.com/qHOzGjuGIq — ANI (@ANI) April 8, 2018 × The MP's were forced to leave from Modi's residence and were packed in buses which took them to Tughlaq Road Police Station, although, they continued to shout slogans and wave placards against the BJP-led central government. Reports said that no case had been lodged against them and the protestors have been taken into preventive custody. Delhi: TDP MPs detained as they staged protest outside prime minister's residence at Lok Kalyan Marg over demand of special category status for Andhra Pradesh. pic.twitter.com/kLR6VvZwQf — ANI (@ANI) April 8, 2018 × The TDP members had been noisily protesting in both Houses of Parliament holding placards etc, demanding special category status to Andhra Pradesh as well as implementation of all the promises made in the AP Reorganisation Act-2014. Around mid-March, having quit the NDA, they gave no-confidence motion against the government but it was not admitted by the Speaker. Even as the Lok Sabha was adjourned sine die without the no-confidence motion against the NDA government being taken up, TDP president and chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu called for bicycle rallies by party leaders and cadre across the state to highlight the “injustice meted out to Andhra Pradesh”. Naidu himself led a bicycle rally from Venkatayapalem village in Amaravati to the state legislative assembly at Velagapudi, which is three kilometres away. He was accompanied by cabinet colleagues, including his son Nara Lokesh, besides several MLAs, MLCs and party leaders. In a teleconference held earlier, Naidu asked party MPs to bring the issue to the President’s notice. He also referred to the absence of YSR Congress MPs from the Opposition’s human chain protest in Parliament on Thursday to allege that they were acting in collusion with the BJP.

Andhra special status: Protesting TDP MPs detained from outside PM's home

Palestinians readied Thursday for new protests along the Gaza border and Israel warned that its open-fire rules would not change as fears of fresh violence rose a week after the bloodiest day in years.

Thousands of Palestinians are again expected to gather at five spots near the Gaza border on Friday, while Israeli soldiers and snipers will take up positions on the other side of the fence.

Protest organisers said they were planning to try to stop smaller numbers of protesters approaching the fence and hurling stones or rolling burning tyres at Israeli troops, who killed 18 Palestinians last Friday.

It was the bloodiest day since a 2014 war. Another two Gazans have been killed since.

But widespread social media calls for protesters to bring tyres to burn and Israel's pledge to prevent damage to the fence and infiltration attempts have raised fears of more deaths.

Young Palestinians have been gathering tyres and carting them near the border to burn and create a smokescreen to make it harder for Israeli snipers.

Some have been walking the streets collecting money to buy tyres.

Israeli Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman vowed that open-fire rules would not change.

"If there are provocations, there will be a reaction of the harshest kind like last week," Lieberman told public radio.

"We do not intend to change the rules of engagement."

'A mistake' 
Last Friday's protest near the Gaza border was attended by tens of thousands of Palestinians.&nbsp;

A smaller number strayed from the main protest and approached the heavily fortified fence on the border with Israel.

Israel says troops opened fire only when necessary against those throwing stones and firebombs or rolling tyres at soldiers.

It said there were attempts to damage the fence and infiltrate Israel, while alleging there was also an attempted gun attack against soldiers along the border.

It accuses Hamas, the Islamist movement that runs the Gaza Strip and with whom it has fought three wars since 2008, of using the protests as cover to carry out violence.

But questions have mounted over Israel's use of live fire, with Palestinians saying protesters were fired on while posing no threat to soldiers.

Rights groups have criticised the army's actions, while the European Union and UN chief Antonio Guterres have called for an independent investigation.

Human Rights Watch called the deaths "calculated" and illegal.

On Thursday, an Israeli rights group launched a prominent campaign calling on soldiers to refuse to fire on unarmed Palestinians.

The campaign led Israel's public security minister to suggest the rights group, B'Tselem, should be investigated for calling for sedition.

Hamas has meanwhile offered compensation of $3,000 to the families of protesters killed and $500 for those seriously injured.

The protests calling for Palestinian refugees to be able to return to their former lands in what is now Israel are supposed to last six weeks, coinciding with the expected opening of the new US embassy in Jerusalem in mid-May.

The US embassy move has led to deep anger among Palestinians, who see the annexed eastern sector of Jerusalem as the capital of their future state.

Asaad abu Sharkh, a spokesman and member of the organising committee of the protests dubbed the Great March of Return, said better attempts will be made on Friday to keep Gazans from approaching the fence.

"I think this was a mistake, a mistake of organisation from us because we shouldn't have let people (go to the border)," he said.&nbsp;

"But at the same time we were not expecting the Israelis to shoot to kill."&nbsp;

He added that "I don't think there is going to be another massacre."

Israel says more than half of the dead were members of militant groups, including the armed wing of Hamas.&nbsp;

Hamas's armed wing has claimed only five of them, saying they were participating "in popular events side-by-side with their people".

Militant group Islamic Jihad has claimed at least one of the dead as a member, but said he was not carrying a weapon when he was shot.

'To Jerusalem we go' 
Smaller protests have continued since Friday, while preparations for the large demonstration for this coming Friday have also been underway.

On Wednesday, a few hundred people gathered near the border east of Gaza City, with some performing the traditional Palestinian dabke dance near specially erected tents.

A newly married couple celebrated by driving near the crowd, while a group of children sang the Palestinian chant of "To Jerusalem we go, with millions of martyrs."

Closer to the fence, dozens of mostly young men hurled stones in the direction of Israeli soldiers leaning over a ridge on the other side of the dusty border.

A 50-year-old, who would only give his name as Abu Mohammed, was trying in vain to reflect the light off a small mirror into the snipers' eyes.

Like other protesters, 21-year-old Mutassim Abu Qumboz cited the crippled economy in the blockaded enclave as his reason for coming out.

He said he knew the protest was unlikely to achieve anything in the short term, but "we will send a message."

Thousands of Palestinians are again expected to gather at five spots near the Gaza border on Friday, while Israeli soldiers and snipers will take up positions on the other side of the fence

Palestinians readied Thursday for new protests along the Gaza border and Israel warned that its open-fire rules would not change as fears of fresh violence rose a week after the bloodiest day in years. Thousands of Palestinians are again expected to gather at five spots near the Gaza border on Friday, while Israeli soldiers and snipers will take up positions on the other side of the fence. Protest organisers said they were planning to try to stop smaller numbers of protesters approaching the fence and hurling stones or rolling burning tyres at Israeli troops, who killed 18 Palestinians last Friday. It was the bloodiest day since a 2014 war. Another two Gazans have been killed since. But widespread social media calls for protesters to bring tyres to burn and Israel's pledge to prevent damage to the fence and infiltration attempts have raised fears of more deaths. Young Palestinians have been gathering tyres and carting them near the border to burn and create a smokescreen to make it harder for Israeli snipers. Some have been walking the streets collecting money to buy tyres. Israeli Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman vowed that open-fire rules would not change. "If there are provocations, there will be a reaction of the harshest kind like last week," Lieberman told public radio. "We do not intend to change the rules of engagement." 'A mistake' Last Friday's protest near the Gaza border was attended by tens of thousands of Palestinians. A smaller number strayed from the main protest and approached the heavily fortified fence on the border with Israel. Israel says troops opened fire only when necessary against those throwing stones and firebombs or rolling tyres at soldiers. It said there were attempts to damage the fence and infiltrate Israel, while alleging there was also an attempted gun attack against soldiers along the border. It accuses Hamas, the Islamist movement that runs the Gaza Strip and with whom it has fought three wars since 2008, of using the protests as cover to carry out violence. But questions have mounted over Israel's use of live fire, with Palestinians saying protesters were fired on while posing no threat to soldiers. Rights groups have criticised the army's actions, while the European Union and UN chief Antonio Guterres have called for an independent investigation. Human Rights Watch called the deaths "calculated" and illegal. On Thursday, an Israeli rights group launched a prominent campaign calling on soldiers to refuse to fire on unarmed Palestinians. The campaign led Israel's public security minister to suggest the rights group, B'Tselem, should be investigated for calling for sedition. Hamas has meanwhile offered compensation of $3,000 to the families of protesters killed and $500 for those seriously injured. The protests calling for Palestinian refugees to be able to return to their former lands in what is now Israel are supposed to last six weeks, coinciding with the expected opening of the new US embassy in Jerusalem in mid-May. The US embassy move has led to deep anger among Palestinians, who see the annexed eastern sector of Jerusalem as the capital of their future state. Asaad abu Sharkh, a spokesman and member of the organising committee of the protests dubbed the Great March of Return, said better attempts will be made on Friday to keep Gazans from approaching the fence. "I think this was a mistake, a mistake of organisation from us because we shouldn't have let people (go to the border)," he said. "But at the same time we were not expecting the Israelis to shoot to kill." He added that "I don't think there is going to be another massacre." Israel says more than half of the dead were members of militant groups, including the armed wing of Hamas. Hamas's armed wing has claimed only five of them, saying they were participating "in popular events side-by-side with their people". Militant group Islamic Jihad has claimed at least one of the dead as a member, but said he was not carrying a weapon when he was shot. 'To Jerusalem we go' Smaller protests have continued since Friday, while preparations for the large demonstration for this coming Friday have also been underway. On Wednesday, a few hundred people gathered near the border east of Gaza City, with some performing the traditional Palestinian dabke dance near specially erected tents. A newly married couple celebrated by driving near the crowd, while a group of children sang the Palestinian chant of "To Jerusalem we go, with millions of martyrs." Closer to the fence, dozens of mostly young men hurled stones in the direction of Israeli soldiers leaning over a ridge on the other side of the dusty border. A 50-year-old, who would only give his name as Abu Mohammed, was trying in vain to reflect the light off a small mirror into the snipers' eyes. Like other protesters, 21-year-old Mutassim Abu Qumboz cited the crippled economy in the blockaded enclave as his reason for coming out. He said he knew the protest was unlikely to achieve anything in the short term, but "we will send a message."

Fresh fears of violence ahead of new Gaza protest

Hundreds of thousands of railway workers took to the streets to start a strike across France on Monday evening to voice their discontent with the government reform plan.

Two-thirds of the trains have been cancelled as 323,000 rallied to protest against a series of reforms launched by French President Emmanuel Macron as part of the plan to remove 120,000 positions in the public service by 2023.

The union of the SNCF (Societe Nationale des Chemins de fer Francais), the national rail network, called on its members to take a long-term strike, that is, strike for two days and work for three.

About 48 per cent of the railway workers, 77 per cent being trained drivers, have participated in the strike since Tuesday. The strike significantly affected the operation of domestic trains. Meanwhile, some passengers were caught unaware.

"The train will leave at 15:50 and it is expected to be on time. We didn't know that there would be a strike when we bought the tickets. The SNCF told us that our train will run normally no matter what," said a passenger at the Lyon station in Paris.

The domestic train service has been more seriously affected than the international train services. However, many still hold that the strike has brought much inconveniences to people.

"We cannot work well during the strike. All the people have been affected, vendors or others. People cannot go out or go on a vacation. They have to stay at home. If this continues tomorrow, we will lose much income," said Robert, a taxi driver in Paris.

Two-thirds of the trains have been cancelled as 323,000 rallied to protest against a series of reforms launched by French President Emmanuel Macron

Hundreds of thousands of railway workers took to the streets to start a strike across France on Monday evening to voice their discontent with the government reform plan. Two-thirds of the trains have been cancelled as 323,000 rallied to protest against a series of reforms launched by French President Emmanuel Macron as part of the plan to remove 120,000 positions in the public service by 2023. The union of the SNCF (Societe Nationale des Chemins de fer Francais), the national rail network, called on its members to take a long-term strike, that is, strike for two days and work for three. About 48 per cent of the railway workers, 77 per cent being trained drivers, have participated in the strike since Tuesday. The strike significantly affected the operation of domestic trains. Meanwhile, some passengers were caught unaware. "The train will leave at 15:50 and it is expected to be on time. We didn't know that there would be a strike when we bought the tickets. The SNCF told us that our train will run normally no matter what," said a passenger at the Lyon station in Paris. The domestic train service has been more seriously affected than the international train services. However, many still hold that the strike has brought much inconveniences to people. "We cannot work well during the strike. All the people have been affected, vendors or others. People cannot go out or go on a vacation. They have to stay at home. If this continues tomorrow, we will lose much income," said Robert, a taxi driver in Paris.

French railway workers on strike against government reform

Four people were killed in violence that broke out in Madhya Pradesh Monday.&nbsp;

The violence has swept across north India, with Dalits protesting against a recent Supreme Court order on the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The Supreme Court order bans the automatic arrest and filing of cases against people accused under the act.&nbsp;

The court had wanted to put a stop to frivolous allegations, but the Dalits view the move as a watering down of the act. India's Dalit community still faces massive discrimination and violence at the hands of India's upper caste and OBC communities.&nbsp;

The court further ruled that a preliminary inquiry in cases filed under the SC/ST Act would be conducted by a district's Deputy Superintendent of Police, to ensure that the allegations levelled are not frivolous.

The court's reasoning was that the changes would&nbsp;protect honest public servants discharging bona fide duties from being blackmailed with false cases under the act.

Dalit organisations and some political parties however fear the dilution of the act may lead to an increase in violence against the community.

On March 30, Union Social Justice Minister Thawar Chand Gehlot had sought legal opinion of Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad favouring filing of a review plea, while noting that there were concerns that the order will make the law “ineffective” and adversely impact the dispensation of justice to Dalits and tribals.

After holding agitations over the last few days to protest against the top court's ruling on the SC/ST Act, several Dalit outfits have called for a Bharat Bandh today.

A delegation of NDA’s SC and ST MPs, led by LJP chief Ram Vilas Paswan and Gehlot, had met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to discuss the apex court judgement diluting provisions of the SC/ST atrocities act.

The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) and the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) have also conveyed their views and demanded a review of the verdict, saying the original Act, as it existed before the SC verdict, should be restored.

The Scheduled Castes (SCs) and the Scheduled Tribes (STs) Prevention of Atrocities (PoA) Act, 1989 was amended recently to include new offences and to ensure speedy justice to victims. The amended law had come into effect from January 26, 2016.

A number of Dalit organisations today <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/protests-over-centres-decision-to-file-scst-review-petition-in-supreme-court-1-dead-in-madhya-pradesh-127773">staged a protest </a>in the national capital today as part of the countrywide agitation called by them against the Supreme Court order on the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act banning automatic arrest and registration of cases.

The protesters, who were demanding that the provisions related to immediate arrest be restored, gathered at Mandi House and blocked the road outside the metro station there, bringing traffic to a halt and inconveniencing commuters travelling towards ITO and other stretches.

The Supreme Court had recently banned the automatic arrest and filing of cases against people accused under the act

Four people were killed in violence that broke out in Madhya Pradesh Monday. The violence has swept across north India, with Dalits protesting against a recent Supreme Court order on the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The Supreme Court order bans the automatic arrest and filing of cases against people accused under the act. The court had wanted to put a stop to frivolous allegations, but the Dalits view the move as a watering down of the act. India's Dalit community still faces massive discrimination and violence at the hands of India's upper caste and OBC communities. The court further ruled that a preliminary inquiry in cases filed under the SC/ST Act would be conducted by a district's Deputy Superintendent of Police, to ensure that the allegations levelled are not frivolous. The court's reasoning was that the changes would protect honest public servants discharging bona fide duties from being blackmailed with false cases under the act. Dalit organisations and some political parties however fear the dilution of the act may lead to an increase in violence against the community. On March 30, Union Social Justice Minister Thawar Chand Gehlot had sought legal opinion of Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad favouring filing of a review plea, while noting that there were concerns that the order will make the law “ineffective” and adversely impact the dispensation of justice to Dalits and tribals. After holding agitations over the last few days to protest against the top court's ruling on the SC/ST Act, several Dalit outfits have called for a Bharat Bandh today. A delegation of NDA’s SC and ST MPs, led by LJP chief Ram Vilas Paswan and Gehlot, had met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to discuss the apex court judgement diluting provisions of the SC/ST atrocities act. The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) and the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) have also conveyed their views and demanded a review of the verdict, saying the original Act, as it existed before the SC verdict, should be restored. The Scheduled Castes (SCs) and the Scheduled Tribes (STs) Prevention of Atrocities (PoA) Act, 1989 was amended recently to include new offences and to ensure speedy justice to victims. The amended law had come into effect from January 26, 2016. A number of Dalit organisations today staged a protest in the national capital today as part of the countrywide agitation called by them against the Supreme Court order on the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act banning automatic arrest and registration of cases. The protesters, who were demanding that the provisions related to immediate arrest be restored, gathered at Mandi House and blocked the road outside the metro station there, bringing traffic to a halt and inconveniencing commuters travelling towards ITO and other stretches.

Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Act: Why the Dalits are protesting

Gazans buried their dead on Saturday with calls for "revenge" a day after a mass protest led to clashes that saw Israeli forces kill 16 Palestinians in the bloodiest day since a 2014 war.

The angry funeral scenes came as the United States blocked a draft UN Security Council statement urging restraint and calling for an investigation into the clashes.

Only several hundred protesters returned to tents erected at sites near the Gaza Strip's border with Israel to resume demonstrations planned to last six weeks in the blockaded enclave.

On the diplomatic front, UN chief Antonio Guterres and European Union diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini called for an "independent and transparent investigation" into Israel's use of live ammunition.

But a motion put forward before the UN Security Council by Kuwait late Saturday calling for such a move was rejected by the United States, a Security Council diplomat told AFP.

Israel defended the army fire at Palestinians who broke away from the main protest of tens of thousands and neared the heavily fortified fence around the Gaza Strip.

"Well done to our soldiers," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wrote in a statement Saturday.

"Israel acts vigorously and with determination to protect its sovereignty and the security of its citizens."

An Israeli military spokesman said Friday's events were "not a protest demonstration" but "organised terrorist activity" by Hamas, which has fought three wars with Israel since 2008.

"If it continues, we shall have no choice but to respond inside the Gaza Strip against terrorist targets which we understand to be behind these events," said Brigadier General Ronen Manelis.

Gaza's health ministry said 35 people suffered wounds that were not life-threatening in low-level clashes along the border on Saturday.

Thousands attended funerals for 14 of those killed -- two were buried on Friday -- with mourners holding Palestinian flags and some chanting "revenge" and firing into the air.

&nbsp

Pressure for inquiry 
The armed wing of Hamas, the Islamist movement that runs the Gaza Strip, said five of those killed were its members who were participating "in popular events side-by-side with their people."

The Israeli army said in a statement Saturday night that 10 of the dead had "documented terror backgrounds" in Hamas and other groups and were killed "whilst carrying out acts of terror."

In addition to the 16 Palestinians killed, more than 1,400 were wounded Friday, 758 of them by live fire, with the remainder hurt by rubber bullets and tear gas inhalation, according to the health ministry in Gaza.

The Israeli military says its forces opened fire only when necessary against those throwing stones and firebombs or rolling tyres at soldiers.

It said there were attempts to damage the fence and break through into Israel, as well as an attempted gun attack against troops.

No casualties were reported among Israelis.

Palestinians accused Israel of using disproportionate force, saying its soldiers opened fire on protesters who did not pose a threat, while human rights groups questioned Israel's use of live fire.

Israeli Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman issued a scornful rejection of demands for a probe.

"I do not understand the chorus of hypocrites who want a commission of inquiry," he posted in Hebrew on his Twitter account.

"They got confused and thought Hamas organised a Woodstock Festival yesterday and that we should give them flowers."

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas declared Saturday a day of national mourning and in a speech said he held Israel fully responsible for the deaths.

&nbsp

US 'cover for Israel' 
The six-week protest is in support of Palestinian refugees and the timetable holds significance for a range of reasons that have added to tensions.

It began on Land Day, when Palestinians commemorate the killing of six unarmed Arab protesters in Israel in 1976.

Protests will continue until the United States opens its new Jerusalem embassy around May 14, a move that has enraged Palestinians, who see the city's annexed eastern sector as the capital of their future state.

May 14 will also mark 70 years since the creation of Israel, while Palestinians will mark what they call the Nakba, or "catastrophe," the following day.

The Nakba commemorates the more than 700,000 Palestinians who either fled or were expelled from their homes in the war surrounding Israel's creation in 1948.

US President Donald Trump has harshly criticised the Palestinians in the past, but the State Department said only that it was "deeply saddened" by the loss of life and urged steps to lower tensions.

Human Rights Watch called calling the number of killed and wounded "shocking".

"Israeli allegations of violence by some protesters do not change the fact that using lethal force is banned by international law except to meet an imminent threat to life," the New York-based group said.

Israel had deployed troop reinforcements along the border, including more than 100 special forces snipers, saying it would prevent attempts to break through the fence.

Protests along the border are common, often involving young Palestinian men throwing stones at Israeli soldiers who respond with tear gas along with rubber and live bullets.

But the "March of Return" protest that began on Friday is on a larger scale and intended to involve families with women and children camping in tent cities near the border for weeks.

A mass protest led to clashes that saw Israeli forces kill 16 Palestinians, the highest number of casualties in one day since a 2014 war

Gazans buried their dead on Saturday with calls for "revenge" a day after a mass protest led to clashes that saw Israeli forces kill 16 Palestinians in the bloodiest day since a 2014 war. The angry funeral scenes came as the United States blocked a draft UN Security Council statement urging restraint and calling for an investigation into the clashes. Only several hundred protesters returned to tents erected at sites near the Gaza Strip's border with Israel to resume demonstrations planned to last six weeks in the blockaded enclave. On the diplomatic front, UN chief Antonio Guterres and European Union diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini called for an "independent and transparent investigation" into Israel's use of live ammunition. But a motion put forward before the UN Security Council by Kuwait late Saturday calling for such a move was rejected by the United States, a Security Council diplomat told AFP. Israel defended the army fire at Palestinians who broke away from the main protest of tens of thousands and neared the heavily fortified fence around the Gaza Strip. "Well done to our soldiers," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wrote in a statement Saturday. "Israel acts vigorously and with determination to protect its sovereignty and the security of its citizens." An Israeli military spokesman said Friday's events were "not a protest demonstration" but "organised terrorist activity" by Hamas, which has fought three wars with Israel since 2008. "If it continues, we shall have no choice but to respond inside the Gaza Strip against terrorist targets which we understand to be behind these events," said Brigadier General Ronen Manelis. Gaza's health ministry said 35 people suffered wounds that were not life-threatening in low-level clashes along the border on Saturday. Thousands attended funerals for 14 of those killed -- two were buried on Friday -- with mourners holding Palestinian flags and some chanting "revenge" and firing into the air. Pressure for inquiry The armed wing of Hamas, the Islamist movement that runs the Gaza Strip, said five of those killed were its members who were participating "in popular events side-by-side with their people." The Israeli army said in a statement Saturday night that 10 of the dead had "documented terror backgrounds" in Hamas and other groups and were killed "whilst carrying out acts of terror." In addition to the 16 Palestinians killed, more than 1,400 were wounded Friday, 758 of them by live fire, with the remainder hurt by rubber bullets and tear gas inhalation, according to the health ministry in Gaza. The Israeli military says its forces opened fire only when necessary against those throwing stones and firebombs or rolling tyres at soldiers. It said there were attempts to damage the fence and break through into Israel, as well as an attempted gun attack against troops. No casualties were reported among Israelis. Palestinians accused Israel of using disproportionate force, saying its soldiers opened fire on protesters who did not pose a threat, while human rights groups questioned Israel's use of live fire. Israeli Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman issued a scornful rejection of demands for a probe. "I do not understand the chorus of hypocrites who want a commission of inquiry," he posted in Hebrew on his Twitter account. "They got confused and thought Hamas organised a Woodstock Festival yesterday and that we should give them flowers." Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas declared Saturday a day of national mourning and in a speech said he held Israel fully responsible for the deaths. US 'cover for Israel' The six-week protest is in support of Palestinian refugees and the timetable holds significance for a range of reasons that have added to tensions. It began on Land Day, when Palestinians commemorate the killing of six unarmed Arab protesters in Israel in 1976. Protests will continue until the United States opens its new Jerusalem embassy around May 14, a move that has enraged Palestinians, who see the city's annexed eastern sector as the capital of their future state. May 14 will also mark 70 years since the creation of Israel, while Palestinians will mark what they call the Nakba, or "catastrophe," the following day. The Nakba commemorates the more than 700,000 Palestinians who either fled or were expelled from their homes in the war surrounding Israel's creation in 1948. US President Donald Trump has harshly criticised the Palestinians in the past, but the State Department said only that it was "deeply saddened" by the loss of life and urged steps to lower tensions. Human Rights Watch called calling the number of killed and wounded "shocking". "Israeli allegations of violence by some protesters do not change the fact that using lethal force is banned by international law except to meet an imminent threat to life," the New York-based group said. Israel had deployed troop reinforcements along the border, including more than 100 special forces snipers, saying it would prevent attempts to break through the fence. Protests along the border are common, often involving young Palestinian men throwing stones at Israeli soldiers who respond with tear gas along with rubber and live bullets. But the "March of Return" protest that began on Friday is on a larger scale and intended to involve families with women and children camping in tent cities near the border for weeks.

Gaza sees bloodiest day in years

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gun-violence-in-united-states-student-led-protests-draw-huge-crowds-36966" target="_blank">Over 1 million Americans pour out onto streets, demand tighter gun control</a>

More than a million Americans flooded the streets of cities nationwide for emotional protests demanding tighter gun control on Saturday, protests spearheaded by teenagers from a Florida high school where 17 people were shot dead last month.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/90-rajya-sabha-mps-are-crorepatis-adr-report-36972" target="_blank">90% Rajya Sabha MPs are crorepatis: Report</a>

Nearly 90 per cent of the Rajya Sabha MPs are crorepatis while the average of total assets Upper House parliamentarians is Rs 55 crore, says a report.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/granddaughter-of-martin-luther-king-jr-energizes-march-for-our-lives-crowd-36969" target="_blank">US protests: Martin Luther King&#39;s granddaughter leads crowd calling for gun reform</a>

The granddaughter of the late civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. energised the crowd in Washington on Saturday (March 24) during the March For Our Lives Rally demanding tighter gun laws, led by survivors of last month&#39;s Florida school massacre which reignited public anger over mass shootings.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-takes-full-control-of-syrias-afrin-military-source-36971" target="_blank">Turkey takes full control of Syria&#39;s Afrin: Military source</a>

Turkey&rsquo;s military and its Syrian rebel allies have taken full control of northwest Syria&rsquo;s Afrin region, a Turkish army source said on Saturday, as aid workers distributed food to people in the area.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-captain-smith-fights-for-job-as-ca-announce-ball-tamper-probe-36980" target="_blank">Australia captain Steve Smith fights for job</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-captain-smith-fights-for-job-as-ca-announce-ball-tamper-probe-36980" target="_blank"> as CA announce </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-captain-smith-fights-for-job-as-ca-announce-ball-tamper-probe-36980" target="_blank">ball-tampering</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-captain-smith-fights-for-job-as-ca-announce-ball-tamper-probe-36980" target="_blank"> probe</a>

Australia captain Steve Smith was fighting to save his job and reputation on Sunday after admitting he was the chief plotter in the ball-tampering scandal which has plunged the game into crisis and sparked a Cricket Australia probe.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Over 1 million Americans pour out onto streets, demand tighter gun control More than a million Americans flooded the streets of cities nationwide for emotional protests demanding tighter gun control on Saturday, protests spearheaded by teenagers from a Florida high school where 17 people were shot dead last month. 90% Rajya Sabha MPs are crorepatis: Report Nearly 90 per cent of the Rajya Sabha MPs are crorepatis while the average of total assets Upper House parliamentarians is Rs 55 crore, says a report. US protests: Martin Luther King's granddaughter leads crowd calling for gun reform The granddaughter of the late civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. energised the crowd in Washington on Saturday (March 24) during the March For Our Lives Rally demanding tighter gun laws, led by survivors of last month's Florida school massacre which reignited public anger over mass shootings. Turkey takes full control of Syria's Afrin: Military source Turkey’s military and its Syrian rebel allies have taken full control of northwest Syria’s Afrin region, a Turkish army source said on Saturday, as aid workers distributed food to people in the area. Australia captain Steve Smith fights for job as CA announce ball-tampering probe Australia captain Steve Smith was fighting to save his job and reputation on Sunday after admitting he was the chief plotter in the ball-tampering scandal which has plunged the game into crisis and sparked a Cricket Australia probe.

WION Morning News Brief, March 25, 2018

Delhi Police has arrested Professor Atul Johri of JNU on Tuesday after allegations of sexual harassment were leveled against him by students.

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Delhi Police has arrested Professor Atul Johri of JNU after allegations of sexual harassment were leveled against him by students <a href="https://t.co/wI8wj9K75d">pic.twitter.com/wI8wj9K75d</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/976069305283612672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) students, had been protesting outside the Vasant Kunj police station, demanding JNU professor&#39;s arrest in an alleged sexual harassment case, accused the police of &quot;inaction&quot; in the matter.

&quot;Four days after eight women students came forward with sexual harassment complaints against the professor, no action has been taken against him and just one FIR has been lodged,&quot; Jawaharlal Nehru University Students&#39; Union (JNUSU) vice-president Simone Zoya Khan said.

The police said a probe was on in the case. &quot;A notice has been issued to the accused, asking him to join the investigation. The statements of the complainants have also been recorded,&quot; Joint Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Ajay Chaudhary said.

Students demanded strict and prompt action against the accused JNU professor. Meanwhile, All India Progressive Women&#39;s Association (AIPWA) also staged a protest and submitted a memorandum to Vasant Kunj police station regarding the issue.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a>: All India Progressive Women&#39;s Association (AIPWA) staged protest and submitted a memorandum to Vasant Kunj police station over alleged molestation against a JNU professor. <a href="https://t.co/g6lCLHWA2V">pic.twitter.com/g6lCLHWA2V</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/976025442363887617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) on Tuesday issued a notice to the Vasant Kunj Police Station, seeking status report and reasons for not arresting JNU professor in a sexual harassment case.

The women&#39;s panel said it has received a representation from the students of the School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, regarding the alleged sexual harassment of women students by the professor.

&quot;The Commission considers this a serious matter related to the safety and security of the young women. Further, we have been informed that the complainants are protesting lack of arrest of the accused,&quot; the commission said, while seeking the information latest by March 23.

It has also issued a notice to the JNU registrar, seeking to know what safeguards have been taken to ensure the safety and security of the complainants and whether the present complaint is being looked into by the Internal Complainants Committee (ICC).

It also sought to know the composition of the ICC as well as the action taken by the committee in the matter till now.It further asked the Registrar if the complaints of sexual harassment against the accused have been registered in the past.

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Students of JNU protest against JNU professor who is accused of sexually harsassing female students. (PTI)
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&quot;If yes. Provide details of the complaints so made. The action taken on those complaints,&quot; the Commission said in its notice.

&quot;The present complaints appear to display a pattern of sexual assault at workplace. Hence, we recommend swift action in the matter and ensuring that the complainants are able to pursue their studies as well as their complaints in a free and fearless environment,&quot; it said.

The accused professor has, however, maintained that he is innocent. While he has resigned from two administrative posts in JNU -- the director of the Human Resources Development Centre (HRDC) and the director of the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) -- on &quot;moral grounds&quot;, he claims that the allegation against him was a &quot;motivated move&quot; by students with vested interests.

Professor of School of Life Sciences (SLS) has been accused of sexual harassment by a group of women students of the prestigious university. He has also been accused of financial irregularities.

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Students of JNU protest against JNU professor who is accused of sexually harsassing female students at Vasant Kunj Police Station in New Delhi on Monday. (PTI)
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The Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) on Tuesday issued a notice to the Vasant Kunj Police Station, seeking status report and reasons for not arresting JNU professor in a sexual harassment case

Delhi Police has arrested Professor Atul Johri of JNU on Tuesday after allegations of sexual harassment were leveled against him by students. Delhi Police has arrested Professor Atul Johri of JNU after allegations of sexual harassment were leveled against him by students pic.twitter.com/wI8wj9K75d — ANI (@ANI) March 20, 2018 × Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) students, had been protesting outside the Vasant Kunj police station, demanding JNU professor's arrest in an alleged sexual harassment case, accused the police of "inaction" in the matter. "Four days after eight women students came forward with sexual harassment complaints against the professor, no action has been taken against him and just one FIR has been lodged," Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU) vice-president Simone Zoya Khan said. The police said a probe was on in the case. "A notice has been issued to the accused, asking him to join the investigation. The statements of the complainants have also been recorded," Joint Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Ajay Chaudhary said. Students demanded strict and prompt action against the accused JNU professor. Meanwhile, All India Progressive Women's Association (AIPWA) also staged a protest and submitted a memorandum to Vasant Kunj police station regarding the issue. #Delhi: All India Progressive Women's Association (AIPWA) staged protest and submitted a memorandum to Vasant Kunj police station over alleged molestation against a JNU professor. pic.twitter.com/g6lCLHWA2V — ANI (@ANI) March 20, 2018 × The Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) on Tuesday issued a notice to the Vasant Kunj Police Station, seeking status report and reasons for not arresting JNU professor in a sexual harassment case. The women's panel said it has received a representation from the students of the School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, regarding the alleged sexual harassment of women students by the professor. "The Commission considers this a serious matter related to the safety and security of the young women. Further, we have been informed that the complainants are protesting lack of arrest of the accused," the commission said, while seeking the information latest by March 23. It has also issued a notice to the JNU registrar, seeking to know what safeguards have been taken to ensure the safety and security of the complainants and whether the present complaint is being looked into by the Internal Complainants Committee (ICC). It also sought to know the composition of the ICC as well as the action taken by the committee in the matter till now.It further asked the Registrar if the complaints of sexual harassment against the accused have been registered in the past. Students of JNU protest against JNU professor who is accused of sexually harsassing female students. (PTI) × "If yes. Provide details of the complaints so made. The action taken on those complaints," the Commission said in its notice. "The present complaints appear to display a pattern of sexual assault at workplace. Hence, we recommend swift action in the matter and ensuring that the complainants are able to pursue their studies as well as their complaints in a free and fearless environment," it said. The accused professor has, however, maintained that he is innocent. While he has resigned from two administrative posts in JNU -- the director of the Human Resources Development Centre (HRDC) and the director of the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) -- on "moral grounds", he claims that the allegation against him was a "motivated move" by students with vested interests. Professor of School of Life Sciences (SLS) has been accused of sexual harassment by a group of women students of the prestigious university. He has also been accused of financial irregularities. Students of JNU protest against JNU professor who is accused of sexually harsassing female students at Vasant Kunj Police Station in New Delhi on Monday. (PTI) ×

Sexual harassment case: JNU professor arrested, granted bail

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) protests continue on Monday in favour of the accused professor&nbsp;suspension, who allegedly sexually harassed female students, and also to discontinue the newly issued mandatory attendance rule.

At least eight women now have filed FIRs against the professor&nbsp;from the School of Life Sciences, accusing him of sexual harassment.

Accusing the police of disregarding procedures, 54 JNU professors today demanded registration of separate FIRs in all eight complaints of sexual harassment filed against the&nbsp;professor.

They petitioned Deputy Commissioner of Police (South-West) Milind Dumberes office two days after the Delhi Police registered an FIR against him following allegations of sexual harassment by a group of women students.

The teachers said eight complaints were filed by as many women students, however, the Delhi Police chose to register only one FIR based on only one of the complaints.

&quot;Even though you have received 8 complaints, each of which reports incidents that are distinct and separated by space and time, you have chosen to register only one FIR under only one of the names. We are shocked to learn this as the law requires that a separate FIR is registered for each complaint,&quot; the petition said.

The students, later on Monday, plan to protest in front of Vasant Kunj Police station in regard to delay in investigation for the same.

The students have termed the suspension of the professor as important because he continues to hold several academic and administrative posts and also that there is a possibility of his interference with the investigation yet to be conducted against him.

Moreover, students are also protesting against a circular issued by the university management in December 2017, which approved a mandatory 75 per cent attendance for all courses.

The students, as a sign of protest, refused to sign attendance sheets. They also demanded separate statements of all the complainants be recorded today itself.

They demanded&nbsp;the accused to&nbsp;not be allowed to make any contact with the complainants.

&quot;We seek an assurance from the Delhi Police to take measures to ensure that the professor is prevented from making any contact with the complainants,&quot; they said.

They also said the DCP should intervene to ensure that health and safety are safeguarded as they are facing&nbsp;tremendous amount of pressure and intimidation to make them compromise.

The JNU Students Union which has been protesting for the past three days demanding arrest of the professor has announced a march to the Vasant Kunj Police Station today at 5pm.

Students of School of Life Sciences, with which the professor is associated, have locked down the school demanding his arrest.&nbsp;

At least eight women now have filed FIRs against the JNU Professor from the School of Life Sciences, accusing him of sexual harassment

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) protests continue on Monday in favour of the accused professor suspension, who allegedly sexually harassed female students, and also to discontinue the newly issued mandatory attendance rule. At least eight women now have filed FIRs against the professor from the School of Life Sciences, accusing him of sexual harassment. Accusing the police of disregarding procedures, 54 JNU professors today demanded registration of separate FIRs in all eight complaints of sexual harassment filed against the professor. They petitioned Deputy Commissioner of Police (South-West) Milind Dumberes office two days after the Delhi Police registered an FIR against him following allegations of sexual harassment by a group of women students. The teachers said eight complaints were filed by as many women students, however, the Delhi Police chose to register only one FIR based on only one of the complaints. "Even though you have received 8 complaints, each of which reports incidents that are distinct and separated by space and time, you have chosen to register only one FIR under only one of the names. We are shocked to learn this as the law requires that a separate FIR is registered for each complaint," the petition said. The students, later on Monday, plan to protest in front of Vasant Kunj Police station in regard to delay in investigation for the same. The students have termed the suspension of the professor as important because he continues to hold several academic and administrative posts and also that there is a possibility of his interference with the investigation yet to be conducted against him. Moreover, students are also protesting against a circular issued by the university management in December 2017, which approved a mandatory 75 per cent attendance for all courses. The students, as a sign of protest, refused to sign attendance sheets. They also demanded separate statements of all the complainants be recorded today itself. They demanded the accused to not be allowed to make any contact with the complainants. "We seek an assurance from the Delhi Police to take measures to ensure that the professor is prevented from making any contact with the complainants," they said. They also said the DCP should intervene to ensure that health and safety are safeguarded as they are facing tremendous amount of pressure and intimidation to make them compromise. The JNU Students Union which has been protesting for the past three days demanding arrest of the professor has announced a march to the Vasant Kunj Police Station today at 5pm. Students of School of Life Sciences, with which the professor is associated, have locked down the school demanding his arrest.

JNU protests continue, professors demand separate FIRs in all complaints against accused

The freedom to air ones view is the &quot;lifeline of any democratic institution&quot;, the Supreme Court Friday&nbsp;said, but made it clear that demonstrations creating public disturbance were not covered under the freedom of speech and expression granted by the Constitution.

The apex court said that Article 19 of the Constitution which relates to freedom of speech and expression guarantees some of the &quot;most important fundamental rights&quot; to the citizens.

&quot;The right of freedom of speech and expression coupled with right to assemble peaceably and without arms are rights expression of which are reflected in carrying demonstration on several occasions. Freedom to air ones view is the lifeline of any democratic institution,&quot; a bench comprising Justices A K Sikri and Ashok Bhushan said.

The apex court made these observations in its judgement by which it dismissed the plea of former Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) leader Bimal Gurung seeking protection from any coercive action by West Bengal Police in connection with the cases lodged against him there.

The bench observed that the word &#39;freedom of speech&#39; must be broadly construed to include right to circulate once view by word of mouth or through audio-visual instrument.

&quot;Demonstrations are also a mode of expression of the rights guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a). Demonstrations whether political, religious or social or other demonstrations which create public disturbances or operate as nuisances, or create or manifestly threaten some tangible public or private mischief, are not covered by protection under Article 19(1),&quot; it said.

&quot;From the very nature of things a demonstration may take various forms; &#39;it may be noisy and disorderly&#39;, for instance stone-throwing by a crowd may be cited as an example of a violent and disorderly demonstration and this would not obviously be within Article 19(1)(a) or (b),&quot; the bench noted in its verdict.

&nbsp;

The freedom to air ones view is the "lifeline of any democratic institution", the Supreme Court Friday said, but made it clear that demonstrations creating public disturbance were not covered under the freedom of speech and expression granted by the Constitution

The freedom to air ones view is the "lifeline of any democratic institution", the Supreme Court Friday said, but made it clear that demonstrations creating public disturbance were not covered under the freedom of speech and expression granted by the Constitution. The apex court said that Article 19 of the Constitution which relates to freedom of speech and expression guarantees some of the "most important fundamental rights" to the citizens. "The right of freedom of speech and expression coupled with right to assemble peaceably and without arms are rights expression of which are reflected in carrying demonstration on several occasions. Freedom to air ones view is the lifeline of any democratic institution," a bench comprising Justices A K Sikri and Ashok Bhushan said. The apex court made these observations in its judgement by which it dismissed the plea of former Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) leader Bimal Gurung seeking protection from any coercive action by West Bengal Police in connection with the cases lodged against him there. The bench observed that the word 'freedom of speech' must be broadly construed to include right to circulate once view by word of mouth or through audio-visual instrument. "Demonstrations are also a mode of expression of the rights guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a). Demonstrations whether political, religious or social or other demonstrations which create public disturbances or operate as nuisances, or create or manifestly threaten some tangible public or private mischief, are not covered by protection under Article 19(1)," it said. "From the very nature of things a demonstration may take various forms; 'it may be noisy and disorderly', for instance stone-throwing by a crowd may be cited as an example of a violent and disorderly demonstration and this would not obviously be within Article 19(1)(a) or (b)," the bench noted in its verdict.

Demonstration creating public disturbance is not Freedom of Speech: Supreme Court

Lok Sabha adjourned for the day amid protests by opposition and other parties on various issues. &nbsp;

Earlier, the lower house was adjourned till 12 noon amid noisy protests by various parties on issues including PNB scam.

The proceedings of the Lok Sabha were paralysed for the ninth consecutive day today as several parties, including NDA constituent TDP, continued their noisy protests over various issues, including the PNB scam and special status for Andhra Pradesh.

As soon as Speaker Sumitra Mahajan took up the Question Hour, members from various parties trooped into the Well holding placards.

When Union minister Ram Kripal Yadav was responding to the first question on rural housing, the protesting members raised their pitch, drowning his voice.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar urged the members of the opposition parties, including the Congress, to return to their seats and allow the House to function.

He said Parliament is the &#39;maha panchayat&#39; of the country where issues are discussed but the disruptions are not allowing important issues to be raised.

He also thanked the Speaker for trying to ensure smooth functioning. He said the government is open to discuss issues including bank scam, Cauvery water management board and special status for Andhra Pradesh, but the House has to function first and members have to vacate the Well.

As the protests continued, the House was adjourned till 12 noon minutes after it met at 11 am.

While members of the Congress, TMC, TDP, YSR Congress and TRS were in the Well raising slogans and holding placards, MPs from the Left were standing at their seats and shouting slogans.

Since March 5, when Parliament had met after a recess, the Lok Sabha has seen disruptions on a daily basis. Amid the din, the Finance Bill and the appropriation bills were yesterday passed by the House without discussion.

As the protests continued, the House was adjourned till 12 noon minutes after it met at 11 am

Lok Sabha adjourned for the day amid protests by opposition and other parties on various issues. Earlier, the lower house was adjourned till 12 noon amid noisy protests by various parties on issues including PNB scam. The proceedings of the Lok Sabha were paralysed for the ninth consecutive day today as several parties, including NDA constituent TDP, continued their noisy protests over various issues, including the PNB scam and special status for Andhra Pradesh. As soon as Speaker Sumitra Mahajan took up the Question Hour, members from various parties trooped into the Well holding placards. When Union minister Ram Kripal Yadav was responding to the first question on rural housing, the protesting members raised their pitch, drowning his voice. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar urged the members of the opposition parties, including the Congress, to return to their seats and allow the House to function. He said Parliament is the 'maha panchayat' of the country where issues are discussed but the disruptions are not allowing important issues to be raised. He also thanked the Speaker for trying to ensure smooth functioning. He said the government is open to discuss issues including bank scam, Cauvery water management board and special status for Andhra Pradesh, but the House has to function first and members have to vacate the Well. As the protests continued, the House was adjourned till 12 noon minutes after it met at 11 am. While members of the Congress, TMC, TDP, YSR Congress and TRS were in the Well raising slogans and holding placards, MPs from the Left were standing at their seats and shouting slogans. Since March 5, when Parliament had met after a recess, the Lok Sabha has seen disruptions on a daily basis. Amid the din, the Finance Bill and the appropriation bills were yesterday passed by the House without discussion.

Lok Sabha adjourned for ninth consecutive day amid protests

The famed &#39;dabbawalas&#39; of Mumbai and the city residents came out to help the thousands of farmers, who walked for six days to reach here from Nashik to raise their various demands, by providing them food and water.

The farmers walked up to the Azad Maidan in South Mumbai early this morning as a part of their &#39;long march&#39; for raising demands, including implementation of the Maharashtra government&#39;s loan waiver scheme.

Subhash Talekar, the spokesperson of Mumbai Dabbawala Association, said, &quot;We thought about helping the farmers with food as they are our food-providers and have come from remote parts of the state.&quot;

&quot;We asked our men working between Dadar (in Central Mumbai) and Colaba (South Mumbai) to collect food and deliver it to our farmer brothers at the Azad Maidan,&quot; he said.

Dabbawalas, the tiffin-carriers,&nbsp;known for their efficient delivery service, provided food to the protesters as a part of their &#39;roti-bank&#39; initiative.

According to Talekar, the Mumbai roti-bank, of which the dabbawalas are an integral part, deploys GPS-tracked vans to collect excess food from eateries, hotels, public functions and households, so that it can be distributed to the poor and hungry people.

Meanwhile, city residents were also seen offering &#39;Vada-pav&#39; (a popular street snack), other food items and water to farmers last night.

A Mumbai resident also posted on social media a picture of food and water being distributed to farmers.

Several political parties like the Congress, the NCP, the Shiv Sena and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena have extended their support to the protesting farmers.

Dabbawalas, the tiffin-carriers, known for their efficient delivery service, provided food to the protesters as a part of their 'roti-bank' initiative

The famed 'dabbawalas' of Mumbai and the city residents came out to help the thousands of farmers, who walked for six days to reach here from Nashik to raise their various demands, by providing them food and water. The farmers walked up to the Azad Maidan in South Mumbai early this morning as a part of their 'long march' for raising demands, including implementation of the Maharashtra government's loan waiver scheme. Subhash Talekar, the spokesperson of Mumbai Dabbawala Association, said, "We thought about helping the farmers with food as they are our food-providers and have come from remote parts of the state." "We asked our men working between Dadar (in Central Mumbai) and Colaba (South Mumbai) to collect food and deliver it to our farmer brothers at the Azad Maidan," he said. Dabbawalas, the tiffin-carriers, known for their efficient delivery service, provided food to the protesters as a part of their 'roti-bank' initiative. According to Talekar, the Mumbai roti-bank, of which the dabbawalas are an integral part, deploys GPS-tracked vans to collect excess food from eateries, hotels, public functions and households, so that it can be distributed to the poor and hungry people. Meanwhile, city residents were also seen offering 'Vada-pav' (a popular street snack), other food items and water to farmers last night. A Mumbai resident also posted on social media a picture of food and water being distributed to farmers. Several political parties like the Congress, the NCP, the Shiv Sena and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena have extended their support to the protesting farmers.

Dabbawalas, Mumbaikars feed protesting farmers

The Baloch Republican Party (BRP), Switzerland protested state-sponsored atrocities in Balochistan during the ongoing 37th session of United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva.

The BRP Switzerland posted out from its Twitter announcing their protest campaign.

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BRP Switzerland organized a campaign during 37th session of UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. There will be an awareness camp outside UN, a rally in Geneva city and a protest demo at Broken Chair
&mdash; BRP Switzerland (@BRP_Switzerland) <a href="https://twitter.com/BRP_Switzerland/status/971336182893350913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&quot;BRP Switzerland organized a campaign during the 37th session of UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. There will be an awareness camp outside UN, a rally in Geneva city and a protest demo at Broken Chair,&quot; The BRP Switzerland tweeted.

Protesters marched from Rive to United Nations office and shouted pro-freedom slogans. They demanded Pakistan to stop abducting innocent civilians from Balochistan.

The BRP also organised an awareness camp outside UN at the Broken Chair in order to make people aware of growing human rights violations in Balochistan.

Meanwhile, &#39;Free Karachi&#39; movement also seems to have sprawled across the globe with an aim to urge the world community to save Mohajirs in Pakistan.&nbsp;

In the&nbsp;latest phase of its&nbsp;campaign, digital ads appeared on the official website of a leading newspaper of the United States, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/leading-us-daily-runs-free-karachi-campaign-advertisements-34825">New York Times</a>, highlighting the Mohajir issue.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

The BRP Switzerland posted out from its Twitter announcing their protest campaign

The Baloch Republican Party (BRP), Switzerland protested state-sponsored atrocities in Balochistan during the ongoing 37th session of United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva. The BRP Switzerland posted out from its Twitter announcing their protest campaign. BRP Switzerland organized a campaign during 37th session of UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. There will be an awareness camp outside UN, a rally in Geneva city and a protest demo at Broken Chair — BRP Switzerland (@BRP_Switzerland) March 7, 2018 × "BRP Switzerland organized a campaign during the 37th session of UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. There will be an awareness camp outside UN, a rally in Geneva city and a protest demo at Broken Chair," The BRP Switzerland tweeted. Protesters marched from Rive to United Nations office and shouted pro-freedom slogans. They demanded Pakistan to stop abducting innocent civilians from Balochistan. The BRP also organised an awareness camp outside UN at the Broken Chair in order to make people aware of growing human rights violations in Balochistan. Meanwhile, 'Free Karachi' movement also seems to have sprawled across the globe with an aim to urge the world community to save Mohajirs in Pakistan. In the latest phase of its campaign, digital ads appeared on the official website of a leading newspaper of the United States, New York Times, highlighting the Mohajir issue. (With inputs from ANI)

Baloch Republican Party holds anti-Pakistan protest in Geneva

Native American activists in North Dakota have said they are still hopeful about halting the construction of a controversial oil pipeline that will run to Illinois, after a federal court said that it needed more time to decide if indigenous rights were violated when the project was approved, The Guardian has reported.&nbsp; 
 
The federal court will now reach a decision by September 9, the report says.&nbsp; 
 
North Dakota is simmering with tension from the past two weeks with protests on its prairies and outside the court in Washington DC against the 1,000-mile long pipeline that environmental activists believe will threaten local waterways. 
 
According to media reports, the pipeline will run close to the Standing Rock Sioux tribe’s reservation, crossing several rivers that supply drinking water to millions of people. 
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<h5>Native Americans constitute roughly 5.4 per cent of the region’s population and the protests come three years after a massive oil boom in North Dakota.</h5>
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Thousands of people from different tribes have trickled in to join the Standing Rock Sioux tribe to protest at the construction site of the Dakota Access Pipeline &nbsp;and the government has ordered police to cut water-supply 
 
“North Dakota homeland security director Greg Wilz has ordered the removal of state-owned trailers and water tanks from the protest encampment, despite the heat, because of alleged disorderly conduct," &nbsp;reports the Bismarck Tribune.&nbsp; 
 
Native Americans constitute roughly 5.4 per cent of the region’s population and the protests come three years after a massive oil boom in North Dakota. 
 
The issue has also come&nbsp;under Amnesty International United States’ s (AIUSA) scanner.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Right2Protest?src=hash">#Right2Protest</a> update: Our human rights observers have been gathering info at the Oceti Sakowin camp in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NorthDakota?src=hash">#NorthDakota</a> <a href="https://t.co/Frz4gvOEhk">pic.twitter.com/Frz4gvOEhk</a>
— AmnestyInternational (@amnesty) <a href="https://twitter.com/amnesty/status/768930824041353216">August 25, 2016</a></blockquote>
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AIUSA sent a letter to the North Dakota Highway Patrol and the Morton County Sheriff Department on Wednesday notifying them of a delegation and indicating how authorities should act in accordance with international human rights standards and the US Constitution during the policing of the protests. 
 
“It is the legitimate right of people to peacefully express their opinion,” the letter reads. 
 
“Public assemblies should not be considered as the ‘enemy.’ The command hierarchy must convey a clear message to law enforcement officials that their task is to facilitate and not to restrict a peaceful public assembly.“&nbsp; 
 
A petition to stop the construction of the Dakota Access pipeline and protect water that is a “crucial part of our lives” has more than 94,000 signatures, including those of actors Leonardo DiCaprio and Mark Ruffalo, according to The Guardian.&nbsp; 
 
(WION) 
 
 
&nbsp;

Environmental activists believe the 1,000-mile-long pipeline will threaten local waterways

Native American activists in North Dakota have said they are still hopeful about halting the construction of a controversial oil pipeline that will run to Illinois, after a federal court said that it needed more time to decide if indigenous rights were violated when the project was approved, The Guardian has reported. The federal court will now reach a decision by September 9, the report says. North Dakota is simmering with tension from the past two weeks with protests on its prairies and outside the court in Washington DC against the 1,000-mile long pipeline that environmental activists believe will threaten local waterways. According to media reports, the pipeline will run close to the Standing Rock Sioux tribe’s reservation, crossing several rivers that supply drinking water to millions of people. Native Americans constitute roughly 5.4 per cent of the region’s population and the protests come three years after a massive oil boom in North Dakota. Thousands of people from different tribes have trickled in to join the Standing Rock Sioux tribe to protest at the construction site of the Dakota Access Pipeline and the government has ordered police to cut water-supply “North Dakota homeland security director Greg Wilz has ordered the removal of state-owned trailers and water tanks from the protest encampment, despite the heat, because of alleged disorderly conduct," reports the Bismarck Tribune. Native Americans constitute roughly 5.4 per cent of the region’s population and the protests come three years after a massive oil boom in North Dakota. The issue has also come under Amnesty International United States’ s (AIUSA) scanner. #Right2Protest update: Our human rights observers have been gathering info at the Oceti Sakowin camp in #NorthDakota pic.twitter.com/Frz4gvOEhk — AmnestyInternational (@amnesty) August 25, 2016 AIUSA sent a letter to the North Dakota Highway Patrol and the Morton County Sheriff Department on Wednesday notifying them of a delegation and indicating how authorities should act in accordance with international human rights standards and the US Constitution during the policing of the protests. “It is the legitimate right of people to peacefully express their opinion,” the letter reads. “Public assemblies should not be considered as the ‘enemy.’ The command hierarchy must convey a clear message to law enforcement officials that their task is to facilitate and not to restrict a peaceful public assembly.“ A petition to stop the construction of the Dakota Access pipeline and protect water that is a “crucial part of our lives” has more than 94,000 signatures, including those of actors Leonardo DiCaprio and Mark Ruffalo, according to The Guardian. (WION)

Tension in North Dakota as Native Americans protest against oil pipeline

Acclaimed US director Wes Anderson&#39;s new animated feature &quot;Isle of Dogs&quot; will on Thursday kick off the Berlin film festival, which is set to be rocked by aftershocks of the #MeToo movement.

With the global cinema industry in turmoil over allegations of rampant sexual misconduct, the 11-day event will seek a delicate balance between Hollywood glamour and frank debate in the wake of powerful producer Harvey Weinstein&#39;s downfall.

Bryan Cranston, Oscar-nominee Greta Gerwig, Bill Murray, Tilda Swinton, Jeff Goldblum and Liev Schreiber, who voice the pack of pooches and the humans who love them in Anderson&#39;s movie, are expected on the Berlinale red carpet for the world premiere.

But even before the opening, controversy erupted over the inclusion at the Berlinale of award-winning South Korean director Kim Ki-Duk, who was fined in December for assaulting an actress on set.

The actress, who has refused to be publicly identified, has accused the festival -- traditionally a strong champion of Asian cinema -- of &quot;hypocrisy&quot; for inviting Kim to present his latest picture, &quot;Human, Space, Time and Human&quot;.

- Berlinale &#39;condemns violence&#39; - 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Festival director Dieter Kosslick said he had excluded a handful of films because of credible sexual abuse allegations against their directors, screenwriters or stars.&nbsp;

But he told AFP he did not bar Kim because sexual harassment allegations by the same actress against him had been dismissed for lack of evidence, adding that he was seeking more information about an appeal in the case.

&quot;Obviously the Berlinale condemns and opposes any form of violence or sexual misconduct,&quot; Kosslick said.

On Thursday, a coalition of more than 100 South Korean civic groups kept up the pressure, releasing a statement condemning the festival&#39;s stance.&nbsp;

&quot;We are living in this unfair reality in which a physical assault offender is working and being welcomed everywhere as if nothing happened, while the victim who spoke out against the abuse is being isolated and marginalised,&quot; the alliance of about 140 groups said in a joint statement sent to AFP.

Meanwhile, an online petition calling for the Berlinale to lay a black carpet instead of a red one in solidarity with sexual assault and harassment victims drew 21,000 signatures.

And German actress Anna Brueggemann launched the Twitter hashtag #NobodysDoll to encourage stars to abandon the high heels and low-cut gowns common at festival premieres for more &quot;comfortable clothing&quot;.

Anderson last opened the Berlinale, which ranks with Cannes and Venice among Europe&#39;s top three cinema showcases, in 2014 with the world premiere of &quot;The Grand Budapest Hotel&quot;, a box office hit which went on to scoop dozens of awards and an Oscar nomination for best picture.

It will be Anderson&#39;s fourth turn in competition for the Berlinale&#39;s Golden and Silver Bear top prizes following &quot;The Royal Tenenbaums&quot; and &quot;The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou&quot;.

Tom Tykwer, one of the German directors behind the blockbuster miniseries &quot;Babylon Berlin&quot; now appearing on Netflix, will lead a gender-balanced jury including Belgian actress Cecile de France (&quot;The Young Pope&quot;), &quot;Moonlight&quot; producer Adele Romanski, Time magazine critic Stephanie Zacharek, Japanese composer Ryuichi Sakamoto and Spanish film historian Chema Prado.

Tykwer said he welcomed the inclusion of the #MeToo movement at the festival and called for a &quot;fact-based&quot; discussion of the industry&#39;s realities.

&quot;It&#39;s important that the debate isn&#39;t artificially stoked (by sensationalist media), nor should it be snuffed out by anyone,&quot; he told reporters.

The competition features 19 films, four of them by female directors.

- First animated opening film -

&quot;Isle of Dogs&quot;, made in the stop-motion style of Anderson&#39;s much-loved &quot;Fantastic Mr Fox&quot; from 2009, is set in a fictional Japanese city in which the autocratic mayor banishes all the hounds to an island garbage dump after an outbreak of canine flu.

Local boy Atari embarks on a rescue mission to track down his beloved bodyguard-pet Spots with the help of the island&#39;s furry occupants.

It will be the first animated film to open the Berlinale, now in its 68th year.

The prizes will be presented at a gala ceremony on February 24 before the festival wraps up the next day.

Last year, a tender Hungarian love story set in a slaughterhouse, &quot;On Body and Soul&quot; by female director Ildiko Enyedi, captured the Golden Bear. It is now nominated for an Academy Award for best foreign language film.

The 11-day event will seek a delicate balance between Hollywood glamour and frank debate in the wake of powerful producer Harvey Weinstein's downfall

Acclaimed US director Wes Anderson's new animated feature "Isle of Dogs" will on Thursday kick off the Berlin film festival, which is set to be rocked by aftershocks of the #MeToo movement. With the global cinema industry in turmoil over allegations of rampant sexual misconduct, the 11-day event will seek a delicate balance between Hollywood glamour and frank debate in the wake of powerful producer Harvey Weinstein's downfall. Bryan Cranston, Oscar-nominee Greta Gerwig, Bill Murray, Tilda Swinton, Jeff Goldblum and Liev Schreiber, who voice the pack of pooches and the humans who love them in Anderson's movie, are expected on the Berlinale red carpet for the world premiere. But even before the opening, controversy erupted over the inclusion at the Berlinale of award-winning South Korean director Kim Ki-Duk, who was fined in December for assaulting an actress on set. The actress, who has refused to be publicly identified, has accused the festival -- traditionally a strong champion of Asian cinema -- of "hypocrisy" for inviting Kim to present his latest picture, "Human, Space, Time and Human". - Berlinale 'condemns violence' - Festival director Dieter Kosslick said he had excluded a handful of films because of credible sexual abuse allegations against their directors, screenwriters or stars. But he told AFP he did not bar Kim because sexual harassment allegations by the same actress against him had been dismissed for lack of evidence, adding that he was seeking more information about an appeal in the case. "Obviously the Berlinale condemns and opposes any form of violence or sexual misconduct," Kosslick said. On Thursday, a coalition of more than 100 South Korean civic groups kept up the pressure, releasing a statement condemning the festival's stance. "We are living in this unfair reality in which a physical assault offender is working and being welcomed everywhere as if nothing happened, while the victim who spoke out against the abuse is being isolated and marginalised," the alliance of about 140 groups said in a joint statement sent to AFP. Meanwhile, an online petition calling for the Berlinale to lay a black carpet instead of a red one in solidarity with sexual assault and harassment victims drew 21,000 signatures. And German actress Anna Brueggemann launched the Twitter hashtag #NobodysDoll to encourage stars to abandon the high heels and low-cut gowns common at festival premieres for more "comfortable clothing". Anderson last opened the Berlinale, which ranks with Cannes and Venice among Europe's top three cinema showcases, in 2014 with the world premiere of "The Grand Budapest Hotel", a box office hit which went on to scoop dozens of awards and an Oscar nomination for best picture. It will be Anderson's fourth turn in competition for the Berlinale's Golden and Silver Bear top prizes following "The Royal Tenenbaums" and "The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou". Tom Tykwer, one of the German directors behind the blockbuster miniseries "Babylon Berlin" now appearing on Netflix, will lead a gender-balanced jury including Belgian actress Cecile de France ("The Young Pope"), "Moonlight" producer Adele Romanski, Time magazine critic Stephanie Zacharek, Japanese composer Ryuichi Sakamoto and Spanish film historian Chema Prado. Tykwer said he welcomed the inclusion of the #MeToo movement at the festival and called for a "fact-based" discussion of the industry's realities. "It's important that the debate isn't artificially stoked (by sensationalist media), nor should it be snuffed out by anyone," he told reporters. The competition features 19 films, four of them by female directors. - First animated opening film - "Isle of Dogs", made in the stop-motion style of Anderson's much-loved "Fantastic Mr Fox" from 2009, is set in a fictional Japanese city in which the autocratic mayor banishes all the hounds to an island garbage dump after an outbreak of canine flu. Local boy Atari embarks on a rescue mission to track down his beloved bodyguard-pet Spots with the help of the island's furry occupants. It will be the first animated film to open the Berlinale, now in its 68th year. The prizes will be presented at a gala ceremony on February 24 before the festival wraps up the next day. Last year, a tender Hungarian love story set in a slaughterhouse, "On Body and Soul" by female director Ildiko Enyedi, captured the Golden Bear. It is now nominated for an Academy Award for best foreign language film.

#MeToo debate dominates Berlin filmfest opening

The Multiplex Association of India, which represents about 75% of multiplex owners, has announced that they will not be screening Padmaavat in four states - Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Goa.

The decision came as Rajput outfits and other fringe elements vandalised malls, burned vehicles, and issued open threats to theatre owners and public in their bid to stall its release, claiming distortion of history.

&ldquo;For us safety of patrons is important. Depending on the scenario, we will see if the atmosphere is safe, then we will play it (in these four states). Things could change (but) at the moment we are looking at safety of people,&rdquo; Deepak Asher, president of the association said.

In Gujarat, theatre owners said that the film would not be screened in any of the multiplexes or single screens till the row was resolved.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-gurugram-to-mumbai-violent-protests-rock-cities-ahead-of-padmaavat-release-30621">Violent protests </a>against the film across the country continued on Wednesday ahead of Padmaavat&#39;s release.&nbsp;

Also see: &nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmaavat-review-ranveer-singh-shines-in-bhansalis-visually-grand-historical-saga-30568">Padmaavat</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmaavat-review-ranveer-singh-shines-in-bhansalis-visually-grand-historical-saga-30568">&nbsp;review: Ranveer Singh shines in Bhansali&#39;s visually grand historical saga</a>

Security has been deployed all over the area and major bars and clubs were shut down.&nbsp;

Karni Sena chief <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karni-sena-chief-we-wont-let-the-film-release-come-what-may-30662">Lokendra Singh Kalvi </a>directed a &ldquo;self-imposed curfew by people&rdquo; to oppose Sanjay Leela Bhansali&rsquo;s movie.

He said: &ldquo;We are adamant on our stand that this film Padmavaat should be banned. January 25 may come and go but we won&rsquo;t let the film release, come what may.&quot;

A group of protestors reportedly pelted stones at a bus belonging to GD Goenka School on Wednesday evening, which was ferrying children at the time of the incident, near Bhondsi, breaking the vehicle&#39;s windows. It was unclear if anyone was wounded in the incident. &nbsp;

A Roadways bus was torched in Haryana, protests were carried out near malls and theatres in Lucknow, while the NH-3 was blocked for a few hours, malls were vandalised on Jammu and Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court had on Tuesday rejected Rajasthan&#39;s final appeal to ban Padmaavat and ordered the government to screen the film.&nbsp;

The movie will not be screened in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Goa

The Multiplex Association of India, which represents about 75% of multiplex owners, has announced that they will not be screening Padmaavat in four states - Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Goa. The decision came as Rajput outfits and other fringe elements vandalised malls, burned vehicles, and issued open threats to theatre owners and public in their bid to stall its release, claiming distortion of history. “For us safety of patrons is important. Depending on the scenario, we will see if the atmosphere is safe, then we will play it (in these four states). Things could change (but) at the moment we are looking at safety of people,” Deepak Asher, president of the association said. In Gujarat, theatre owners said that the film would not be screened in any of the multiplexes or single screens till the row was resolved. Violent protests against the film across the country continued on Wednesday ahead of Padmaavat's release. Also see: Padmaavat review: Ranveer Singh shines in Bhansali's visually grand historical saga Security has been deployed all over the area and major bars and clubs were shut down. Karni Sena chief Lokendra Singh Kalvi directed a “self-imposed curfew by people” to oppose Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s movie. He said: “We are adamant on our stand that this film Padmavaat should be banned. January 25 may come and go but we won’t let the film release, come what may." A group of protestors reportedly pelted stones at a bus belonging to GD Goenka School on Wednesday evening, which was ferrying children at the time of the incident, near Bhondsi, breaking the vehicle's windows. It was unclear if anyone was wounded in the incident. A Roadways bus was torched in Haryana, protests were carried out near malls and theatres in Lucknow, while the NH-3 was blocked for a few hours, malls were vandalised on Jammu and Ahmedabad. The Supreme Court had on Tuesday rejected Rajasthan's final appeal to ban Padmaavat and ordered the government to screen the film.

No screening of 'Padmaavat' in 4 states, says Multiplex Association of India

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