In the wake of Ramzan, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N&nbsp;Chandrababu Naidu suggested NITI Aayog Vice-Chairman Rajiv Kumar to postpone the governing council meeting.

In a letter, Naidu recommended Kumar to push the meeting by two days, so that he would be available on Ramzan to meet the Muslim population of the state.

The meeting was scheduled to be held on June 16. However, on account of the Muslim festival, Naidu suggested that the meeting be postponed to June 18 or June 17 at noon.

This will be the fourth meeting of the think tank's governing council, which will see deliberations on the development agenda 'New India 2022.'

The council comprises of chief ministers of all states, including Naidu, and members of the NITI Aayog.&nbsp;

The council comprises of chief ministers of all states, including Naidu, and members of the NITI Aayog

In the wake of Ramzan, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu suggested NITI Aayog Vice-Chairman Rajiv Kumar to postpone the governing council meeting. In a letter, Naidu recommended Kumar to push the meeting by two days, so that he would be available on Ramzan to meet the Muslim population of the state. The meeting was scheduled to be held on June 16. However, on account of the Muslim festival, Naidu suggested that the meeting be postponed to June 18 or June 17 at noon. This will be the fourth meeting of the think tank's governing council, which will see deliberations on the development agenda 'New India 2022.' The council comprises of chief ministers of all states, including Naidu, and members of the NITI Aayog.

Andhra Pradesh CM suggests NITI Aayog to reschedule meeting

A man was arrested on Saturday in Rajasthan's Piparcity area for allegedly sacrificing his daughter to appease Allah during the ongoing holy month of Ramzan, police said. 
 
Nawab Ali's elder daughter Rizwana (4) was found dead with her throat slit at his residence on Friday morning, Superintendent of Police (Jodhpur Rural) Rajan Dushyant said. 
 
A dog squad and FSL team were called in for investigation. 
 
Ali came under suspicion as the house was locked from inside, Dushyant said. 
 
When grilled by the police, he admitted to have killed his daughter to obtain Allah's blessings during Ramzan, the SP added. 
 
The family, including Ali, his wife and two daughters had slept together on the roof of their house on Thursday night. 
 
Rizwana was found missing in the morning and a search by the family led to the discovery of her body on the ground floor of the house, a police official said. 
 
Ali tried to convince the family that a cat may have killed Rizwana, who was declared brought dead at a hospital. 
 
According to the police, Ali had taken Rizwana to market earlier on Thursday where he bought her goodies and sweets telling her that he loved her very much.&nbsp 
 
At midnight, he took her downstairs, made her sit in his lap and recited Quranic verses before slitting her throat with a sharp-edged knife, the police added. 
 
He then came back upstairs to sleep with the others, they said.&nbsp

When grilled by the police, the accused admitted to have killed his daughter to obtain Allah's blessings during Ramzan, the SP added

A man was arrested on Saturday in Rajasthan's Piparcity area for allegedly sacrificing his daughter to appease Allah during the ongoing holy month of Ramzan, police said. Nawab Ali's elder daughter Rizwana (4) was found dead with her throat slit at his residence on Friday morning, Superintendent of Police (Jodhpur Rural) Rajan Dushyant said. A dog squad and FSL team were called in for investigation. Ali came under suspicion as the house was locked from inside, Dushyant said. When grilled by the police, he admitted to have killed his daughter to obtain Allah's blessings during Ramzan, the SP added. The family, including Ali, his wife and two daughters had slept together on the roof of their house on Thursday night. Rizwana was found missing in the morning and a search by the family led to the discovery of her body on the ground floor of the house, a police official said. Ali tried to convince the family that a cat may have killed Rizwana, who was declared brought dead at a hospital. According to the police, Ali had taken Rizwana to market earlier on Thursday where he bought her goodies and sweets telling her that he loved her very much. At midnight, he took her downstairs, made her sit in his lap and recited Quranic verses before slitting her throat with a sharp-edged knife, the police added. He then came back upstairs to sleep with the others, they said.

Rajasthan: Man arrested for sacrificing daughter to 'appease Allah during Ramzan'

Former Pakistan Cricket Team Captain and Coach Waqar Younis has apologised to fans for cutting a cake on Wasim Akram`s birthday during the month of Ramzan.

"Apologise to everyone for cutting cake on Waseem Bhai`s birthday yesterday. We should have respected Ramadan and the people who were fasting ????. It was a poor act on our behalf #SORRY," he tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Apologise to everyone for cutting cake on Waseem Bhai’s birthday yesterday..We should have respected Ramadan and the people who were fasting ??. It was a poor act on our behalf <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SORRY?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SORRY</a>
— Waqar Younis (@waqyounis99) <a href="https://twitter.com/waqyounis99/status/1003558416009318400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The celebration happened during the second Test match between England and Pakistan in Headlingley.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
While Pakistan’s misery continued onfield the press box celebrated <a href="https://twitter.com/wasimakramlive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wasimakramlive</a> birthday! Lots of ? A very happy birthday to a living legend..<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvPak?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvPak</a> <a href="https://t.co/V7Vr3rDFnN">pic.twitter.com/V7Vr3rDFnN</a>
— zainab abbas (@ZAbbasOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZAbbasOfficial/status/1003292366965526529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Both Younis and Akram drew flak from fans and followers for celebrating the birthday during Ramzan.&nbsp;

The celebration happened during the second Test match between England and Pakistan in Headlingley

Former Pakistan Cricket Team Captain and Coach Waqar Younis has apologised to fans for cutting a cake on Wasim Akram`s birthday during the month of Ramzan. "Apologise to everyone for cutting cake on Waseem Bhai`s birthday yesterday. We should have respected Ramadan and the people who were fasting ????. It was a poor act on our behalf #SORRY," he tweeted. Apologise to everyone for cutting cake on Waseem Bhai’s birthday yesterday..We should have respected Ramadan and the people who were fasting ??. It was a poor act on our behalf #SORRY — Waqar Younis (@waqyounis99) June 4, 2018 × The celebration happened during the second Test match between England and Pakistan in Headlingley. While Pakistan’s misery continued onfield the press box celebrated @wasimakramlive birthday! Lots of ? A very happy birthday to a living legend..#ENGvPak pic.twitter.com/V7Vr3rDFnN — zainab abbas (@ZAbbasOfficial) June 3, 2018 × Both Younis and Akram drew flak from fans and followers for celebrating the birthday during Ramzan.

Waqar Younis apologises for cutting Wasim's birthday cake during Ramzan

Reiterating&nbsp;foreign minister Sushma Swaraj's view, defence minister <a href="Commanders of BSF, Pakistan Rangers meet, say peace along border 'likely'">Nirmala Sitharaman said today</a> that talks and terror can't go together, in reference to cross-border terror attacks.

Addressing a press conference, Sitharam said the government had consulted with the Indian Army about the ceasefire.

India had announced a ceasefire in J&K over Ramzan, a move which was applauded by the Mehbooba government.

"We respect the ceasefire," Sitharaman said, adding that India "won't stop if provoked."

India and Pakistan troops exchanged fire on Sunday leading to the death of 2 BSF soldiers on Sunday after agreeing to the 2003 ceasefire agreement.

"We will respond if Pakistan does not honour the ceasefire," the defence minister&nbsp;added.

On the state of India's defence forces,&nbsp;Sitharaman said maximum defence spending in a decade had happened last year.

"There is no real cash crush for the forces," she said.

India had announced a ceasefire in J&K over Ramzan

Reiterating foreign minister Sushma Swaraj's view, defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman said today that talks and terror can't go together, in reference to cross-border terror attacks. Addressing a press conference, Sitharam said the government had consulted with the Indian Army about the ceasefire. India had announced a ceasefire in J&K over Ramzan, a move which was applauded by the Mehbooba government. "We respect the ceasefire," Sitharaman said, adding that India "won't stop if provoked." India and Pakistan troops exchanged fire on Sunday leading to the death of 2 BSF soldiers on Sunday after agreeing to the 2003 ceasefire agreement. "We will respond if Pakistan does not honour the ceasefire," the defence minister added. On the state of India's defence forces, Sitharaman said maximum defence spending in a decade had happened last year. "There is no real cash crush for the forces," she said.

Talks and terror can't go together: Defence minister Sitharaman to Pakistan

After India and Pakistan <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/ceasefire-dialogue-offer-opportunity-to-save-jk-from-bloodshed-mehbooba-141939">DGMS announced a ceasefire </a>agreement last week, minister of state for home affairs(MoS) Hansraj Ahir said the government will be "constrained to revoke the ceasefire agreement" in view of cross-border firing.

In the latest incident, two BSF personnel were <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/two-bsf-personnel-killed-as-pak-violates-ceasefire-in-jk-141850">killed after Pakistani troops opened fire in Akhnoor</a>, Kanachak and Khour sectors of Jammu district on Sunday. The sudden firing led to the death of Assistant Sub-inspector Satya Narayan Yadav and Constable Vijay Kumar Pandey. At least 13 people were injured during the cross-border firing.

Speaking about the incident, Ahir said: &nbsp;"We had decided to suspend operations in view of Ramzan. However, there is no respite in cross-border terrorism and ceasefire violations on the part of Pakistan," adding,"we will be constrained to revoke the ceasefire agreement."

MoS Ahir added that India will continue to follow the &nbsp;"no-first-strike" policy.

Meanwhile, BSF's Jammu frontier IG Ram Awtar said &nbsp;Islamabad says one thing and does another.

India and Pakistan DGMOs last week had agreed to implement the ceasefire pact of 2003 in "letter and spirit".&nbsp;

"Suddenly, Pakistan started firing around 1.15 am, injuring two of our personnel who later succumbed,"BSF IG Awtar said. Indian troops stationed at the border returned fire, he informed.

"After every incident, we do a detailed study and accordingly take precautionary measures for the future. This incident of cross-border firing will be probed as well," the BSF IG said.

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/w78kiiGgrv0" width="560"></iframe>

BSF's Jammu frontier IG Ram Awtar said Islamabad says one thing and does another.

After India and Pakistan DGMS announced a ceasefire agreement last week, minister of state for home affairs(MoS) Hansraj Ahir said the government will be "constrained to revoke the ceasefire agreement" in view of cross-border firing. In the latest incident, two BSF personnel were killed after Pakistani troops opened fire in Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors of Jammu district on Sunday. The sudden firing led to the death of Assistant Sub-inspector Satya Narayan Yadav and Constable Vijay Kumar Pandey. At least 13 people were injured during the cross-border firing. Speaking about the incident, Ahir said: "We had decided to suspend operations in view of Ramzan. However, there is no respite in cross-border terrorism and ceasefire violations on the part of Pakistan," adding,"we will be constrained to revoke the ceasefire agreement." MoS Ahir added that India will continue to follow the "no-first-strike" policy. Meanwhile, BSF's Jammu frontier IG Ram Awtar said Islamabad says one thing and does another. India and Pakistan DGMOs last week had agreed to implement the ceasefire pact of 2003 in "letter and spirit". "Suddenly, Pakistan started firing around 1.15 am, injuring two of our personnel who later succumbed,"BSF IG Awtar said. Indian troops stationed at the border returned fire, he informed. "After every incident, we do a detailed study and accordingly take precautionary measures for the future. This incident of cross-border firing will be probed as well," the BSF IG said.

No respite in border firing, will be constrained to revoke ceasefire: MoS Home Hansraj Ahir

President Donald Trump will host an Iftar dinner on Wednesday at the White House, in celebration of Ramzan, an official said.&nbsp

According to a White House official, the iftar dinner is scheduled to be held on June 13.&nbsp

A guest list was, however, not made available by the office, according to Politico.

Muslims around the world fast from sunrise to sunset and break their fast with an evening meal known as iftar.

This is the first time Trump will be hosting the dinner after the White House did not hold the ceremony last year, breaking a long-established tradition.

Each of former presidents Barack Obama, George W Bush and Bill Clinton held Iftar dinners during their presidencies.

Trump has a long history of making inflammatory statements about Muslims. During his campaign, he told an interviewer, “I think Islam hates us.”

Last month, Trump issued a statement marking the start of Ramzan as saying, "Ramzan reminds us of the richness Muslims add to the religious tapestry of American life.

"Trump reportedly has an uneasy relationship with the Muslims. After he came to power as the US President last year, Trump called for a "total and complete ban" on all Muslims entering the country.

He cited them as refugees and terrorists, inviting a massive backlash from people all over the world.

Trump had even signed an executive order banning Muslims from several countries such as Iran, Iraq and Syria from entering the US.

Muslims around the world fast from sunrise to sunset and break their fast with an evening meal known as iftar.

President Donald Trump will host an Iftar dinner on Wednesday at the White House, in celebration of Ramzan, an official said. According to a White House official, the iftar dinner is scheduled to be held on June 13. A guest list was, however, not made available by the office, according to Politico. Muslims around the world fast from sunrise to sunset and break their fast with an evening meal known as iftar. This is the first time Trump will be hosting the dinner after the White House did not hold the ceremony last year, breaking a long-established tradition. Each of former presidents Barack Obama, George W Bush and Bill Clinton held Iftar dinners during their presidencies. Trump has a long history of making inflammatory statements about Muslims. During his campaign, he told an interviewer, “I think Islam hates us.” Last month, Trump issued a statement marking the start of Ramzan as saying, "Ramzan reminds us of the richness Muslims add to the religious tapestry of American life. "Trump reportedly has an uneasy relationship with the Muslims. After he came to power as the US President last year, Trump called for a "total and complete ban" on all Muslims entering the country. He cited them as refugees and terrorists, inviting a massive backlash from people all over the world. Trump had even signed an executive order banning Muslims from several countries such as Iran, Iraq and Syria from entering the US.

Donald Trump to hold Ramzan dinner after skipping it last year

Head of the terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) Masood Azhar on Saturday mocked the May 16 ceasefire declaration by the Indian government.&nbsp;

Azhar has said the Indian government was forced to declare a ceasefire in Kashmir out of compulsion and it has left open space for JeM.

Azhar's statements came out in an audio clip released by the Jaish-e-Mohammad, where he is heard addressing a gathering of new recruits.&nbsp;

According to intelligence sources, the terror chief has been stationed in Pakistan's Bahawalpur province, where he is training new recruits under a new programme which started on May 1 earlier this year.

Interestingly, JeM had claimed responsibility for the multiple grenade attacks in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday.

India holds Azhar responsible for many terrorist acts in India including the 13 December 2001 attack on India’s parliament as well as the 2 January 2016 attack on the Pathankot airbase.&nbsp;

The Centre on May 16 had announced a ceasefire in J&K, directing the security forces to halt their operations during the holy month of Ramzan.&nbsp;

A week after the declaration, terrorists conducted a strike, the first since the ceasefire announcement by attacking an Indian Army camp located in the Pulwama district of South Kashmir and killing an Army jawan and a civilian.

Recently, Security agencies sounded a high alert in Jammu and Kashmir after intelligence reports warned that Jaish-e-Mohammad militants have sneaked from across the Line of Control (LoC) and planned major fidayeen attacks in next few days.

A security official said intelligence reports were received about that a group of heavily armed Jaish militants have entered the state from different sectors of LoC.

Azhar's statements came out in an audio clip released by the party, where he is heard addressing a gathering a new recruits.

Head of the terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) Masood Azhar on Saturday mocked the May 16 ceasefire declaration by the Indian government. Azhar has said the Indian government was forced to declare a ceasefire in Kashmir out of compulsion and it has left open space for JeM. Azhar's statements came out in an audio clip released by the Jaish-e-Mohammad, where he is heard addressing a gathering of new recruits. According to intelligence sources, the terror chief has been stationed in Pakistan's Bahawalpur province, where he is training new recruits under a new programme which started on May 1 earlier this year. Interestingly, JeM had claimed responsibility for the multiple grenade attacks in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday. India holds Azhar responsible for many terrorist acts in India including the 13 December 2001 attack on India’s parliament as well as the 2 January 2016 attack on the Pathankot airbase. The Centre on May 16 had announced a ceasefire in J&K, directing the security forces to halt their operations during the holy month of Ramzan. A week after the declaration, terrorists conducted a strike, the first since the ceasefire announcement by attacking an Indian Army camp located in the Pulwama district of South Kashmir and killing an Army jawan and a civilian. Recently, Security agencies sounded a high alert in Jammu and Kashmir after intelligence reports warned that Jaish-e-Mohammad militants have sneaked from across the Line of Control (LoC) and planned major fidayeen attacks in next few days. A security official said intelligence reports were received about that a group of heavily armed Jaish militants have entered the state from different sectors of LoC.

JeM chief Masood Azhar mocks Ramzan ceasefire announced by Centre in Jammu and Kashmir

A Pakistan meteorological official confirmed that while the temperature remained around 45 degrees Centigrade but due to absence of sea breeze in the coastal city, the felt temperature was close to 49 degrees.

"There were no winds today from the sea and for Karachiites Wednesday was the hottest day since May 1981," one official confirmed.

He said due to load shedding in many parts of the city, it was very uncomfortable for the people in the month of fasting.&nbsp;Due to the extreme weather people preferred to stay indoors with little traffic seen on the roads especially afternoon with suffocating humidity.

People out on the roads could be seen wrapping their heads and faces in wet towels and cloth while in many areas people were seen cooling off with their feet in ice buckets.

Karachi and many parts of Pakistan have been in the grip of extremely hot weather since last month and temperatures have escalated since the start of Ramzan two weeks back.

According to the Edhi welfare trust, at one point due to the hot and humid weather over a period of four days at least 62 people&nbsp;died due to heat stroke but the provincial government has disputed these claims.&nbsp;

Karachi and many parts of Pakistan have been in the grip of extremely hot weather

A Pakistan meteorological official confirmed that while the temperature remained around 45 degrees Centigrade but due to absence of sea breeze in the coastal city, the felt temperature was close to 49 degrees. "There were no winds today from the sea and for Karachiites Wednesday was the hottest day since May 1981," one official confirmed. He said due to load shedding in many parts of the city, it was very uncomfortable for the people in the month of fasting. Due to the extreme weather people preferred to stay indoors with little traffic seen on the roads especially afternoon with suffocating humidity. People out on the roads could be seen wrapping their heads and faces in wet towels and cloth while in many areas people were seen cooling off with their feet in ice buckets. Karachi and many parts of Pakistan have been in the grip of extremely hot weather since last month and temperatures have escalated since the start of Ramzan two weeks back. According to the Edhi welfare trust, at one point due to the hot and humid weather over a period of four days at least 62 people died due to heat stroke but the provincial government has disputed these claims.

Karachi experiences hottest day since 1981

Unrest-gripped Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir is in being talked about for a completely different reason. A video clip from the region, showing a Sikh man beating drums and waking his Muslims neighbours for Sehri,&nbsp;is going viral.&nbsp;

The 21-second video clip features an unidentified old Sikh man who is urging Muslims to wake up and start their fasting.

"Those who are loved by Allah, his messengers, those who seek paradise, wake up to start your fast," the man shouts.

The heart-warming incident of communal harmony from the valley is being lauded by netizens from all across the country.

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/W6BxyKCgXFg" width="560"></iframe>

Usually, a person from the Muslim community takes up the&nbsp;task of waking up others for Sehri (the pre-fasting meal that is consumed before dawn). The Seharkhwaan&nbsp;beat drums and go around waking up Muslims for Sehri and prayers.

The 21-second video clip features an unidentified old Sikh man who is urging Muslims to wake and start their fasting

Unrest-gripped Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir is in being talked about for a completely different reason. A video clip from the region, showing a Sikh man beating drums and waking his Muslims neighbours for Sehri, is going viral. The 21-second video clip features an unidentified old Sikh man who is urging Muslims to wake up and start their fasting. "Those who are loved by Allah, his messengers, those who seek paradise, wake up to start your fast," the man shouts. The heart-warming incident of communal harmony from the valley is being lauded by netizens from all across the country. Usually, a person from the Muslim community takes up the task of waking up others for Sehri (the pre-fasting meal that is consumed before dawn). The Seharkhwaan beat drums and go around waking up Muslims for Sehri and prayers.

Watch: Sikh man wakes up Muslim neighbours for Sehri in Jammu and Kashmir

An Army jawan and a civilian were killed on Sunday night when terrorists attacked an Army camp in Pulwama district of south Kashmir, police said.

This is the first terror strike by terrorists after the Centre announced cessation of operations during the holy month of Ramzan.

Police said the terrorists attacked the camp of 50 Rashtriya Rifles at Kakapora in Pulwama district leaving a jawan seriously injured.

A civilian identified as Bilal Ahmed was also caught in the crossfire leaving him seriously injured.

Both were rushed to a hospital where the duo succumbed to their injuries. Authorities have clamped prohibitory orders in parts of Pulwama district.&nbsp

They said the fire was retaliated by the Army personnel.

Police said the terrorists attacked the camp of 50 Rashtriya Rifles at Kakapora in Pulwama

An Army jawan and a civilian were killed on Sunday night when terrorists attacked an Army camp in Pulwama district of south Kashmir, police said. This is the first terror strike by terrorists after the Centre announced cessation of operations during the holy month of Ramzan. Police said the terrorists attacked the camp of 50 Rashtriya Rifles at Kakapora in Pulwama district leaving a jawan seriously injured. A civilian identified as Bilal Ahmed was also caught in the crossfire leaving him seriously injured. Both were rushed to a hospital where the duo succumbed to their injuries. Authorities have clamped prohibitory orders in parts of Pulwama district. They said the fire was retaliated by the Army personnel.

J&K: Terrorists attack Army camp in Pulwama; 1 soldier, civilian killed

A community organisation of Dogras, belonging to Jammu and Kashmir staged a protest against ceasefire violations by Pakistan.

The protest was conducted in front of Pakistani High Commission in London in solidarity with the Jammu border villages which Pakistan targets using both small arms fire and heavy calibre weapons, causing extensive damage to both life and property.

The protestors further highlighted the recent deaths of an 8-month-old child named Nitin and 8-year-old Krishna in the incidents of unprovoked firing by Pakistan during the holy month of Ramzan.

The role of Pakistan in creating disturbance in the state of Jammu Kashmir through unprovoked ceasefire violations along the IB and LOC in Jammu, and infiltrations and sponsoring of terrorism to keep the state unstable and its residents in fear.

Anisha Safaya said, "I request the Pakistan authorities to stop bleeding our borders. Stop killing our people. If you (Pakistan) are not perturbed by the killing of eight-year-old, then it is really shameful."

Another protestor said that they will raise their voices against Pakistan at several international forums and will spread the word that Pakistan is a terror-state.

A community organisation of Dogras, belonging to Jammu and Kashmir staged a protest against ceasefire violations by Pakistan

A community organisation of Dogras, belonging to Jammu and Kashmir staged a protest against ceasefire violations by Pakistan. The protest was conducted in front of Pakistani High Commission in London in solidarity with the Jammu border villages which Pakistan targets using both small arms fire and heavy calibre weapons, causing extensive damage to both life and property. The protestors further highlighted the recent deaths of an 8-month-old child named Nitin and 8-year-old Krishna in the incidents of unprovoked firing by Pakistan during the holy month of Ramzan. The role of Pakistan in creating disturbance in the state of Jammu Kashmir through unprovoked ceasefire violations along the IB and LOC in Jammu, and infiltrations and sponsoring of terrorism to keep the state unstable and its residents in fear. Anisha Safaya said, "I request the Pakistan authorities to stop bleeding our borders. Stop killing our people. If you (Pakistan) are not perturbed by the killing of eight-year-old, then it is really shameful." Another protestor said that they will raise their voices against Pakistan at several international forums and will spread the word that Pakistan is a terror-state.

Dogras protest against Pakistan firing at Indian borders

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/punggye-ri-nuclear-test-site-completely-dismantled-says-state-run-north-korean-media-139479">Punggye-</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/punggye-ri-nuclear-test-site-completely-dismantled-says-state-run-north-korean-media-139479">ri</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/punggye-ri-nuclear-test-site-completely-dismantled-says-state-run-north-korean-media-139479"> nuclear test site completely dismantled, says state-run North Korean media</a>

Ahead of Trump and Kim's summit talks,&nbsp<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-dismantling-nuclear-site-report-139434">North Korea state-run news agency</a>KCNA said today the country&nbsphad completely dismantled its Punggye-ri nuclear test ground.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-good-response-government-may-extend-suspension-of-operation-in-jk-beyond-ramzan-139425">After 'good response', </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-good-response-government-may-extend-suspension-of-operation-in-jk-beyond-ramzan-139425">government</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-good-response-government-may-extend-suspension-of-operation-in-jk-beyond-ramzan-139425"> may extend </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-good-response-government-may-extend-suspension-of-operation-in-jk-beyond-ramzan-139425">suspension</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-good-response-government-may-extend-suspension-of-operation-in-jk-beyond-ramzan-139425"> of operation in J&K beyond Ramzan</a>

Nearly a week&nbsp<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-announces-ceasefire-during-ramzan-in-jk-137400">after announcing&nbsp</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-announces-ceasefire-during-ramzan-in-jk-137400">suspension</a>&nbspof operation by security forces&nbspin Jammu and Kashmir(J&K), sources in the government say they may consider extending the suspension even after Ramzan.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-effect-now-burkina-faso-cuts-diplomatic-ties-with-taiwan-139470">China effect? Now, Burkina Faso cuts diplomatic ties with Taiwan</a>

Taiwan's foreign minister&nbspJoseph Wu resigned today after Burkina Faso announced it was cutting diplomatic ties with the island nation.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-sterlite-protest-palaniswamy-ensures-legal-action-for-factory-shut-down--139413">Anti-Sterlite protest: CM Palaniswamy ensures legal action for factory shut down</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/tuticorin-anti-sterlite-protests-tamil-nadu-cm-palaniswami-defends-police-action-139388">Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palaniswami&nbsp</a>has assured that his government was taking steps to shut down the Sterlite factory at Thoothukudi.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/not-realistic-to-use-drills-to-coerce-on-sovereignty-china-139416">Not realistic to use drills to coerce on sovereignty: China</a>

China says on Thursday (May 24) it is not realistic to use drills to coerce China on sovereignty after the United States withdrew an invitation to China to attend a major US-hosted naval drill.

&nbsp

Punggye-ri nuclear test site completely dismantled, says state-run North Korean media Ahead of Trump and Kim's summit talks, North Korea state-run news agencyKCNA said today the country&nbsphad completely dismantled its Punggye-ri nuclear test ground. After 'good response', government may extend suspension of operation in J&K beyond Ramzan Nearly a week after announcing suspension&nbspof operation by security forces&nbspin Jammu and Kashmir(J&K), sources in the government say they may consider extending the suspension even after Ramzan. China effect? Now, Burkina Faso cuts diplomatic ties with Taiwan Taiwan's foreign minister&nbspJoseph Wu resigned today after Burkina Faso announced it was cutting diplomatic ties with the island nation. Anti-Sterlite protest: CM Palaniswamy ensures legal action for factory shut down Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palaniswami has assured that his government was taking steps to shut down the Sterlite factory at Thoothukudi. Not realistic to use drills to coerce on sovereignty: China China says on Thursday (May 24) it is not realistic to use drills to coerce China on sovereignty after the United States withdrew an invitation to China to attend a major US-hosted naval drill.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Nearly a week <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-announces-ceasefire-during-ramzan-in-jk-137400">after announcing </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-announces-ceasefire-during-ramzan-in-jk-137400">suspension</a> of operation by security forces&nbsp;in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K), sources in the government say they may consider extending the suspension even after Ramzan.

On May 16, the Centre had asked security forces in J&K to suspend operation for a month due to the holy month of Ramzan after CM Mehbooba Mufti and other political parties pushed for a "suspended peace".

Home minister Rajnath Singh had later said the Centre is suspending operation and informed J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti who welcomed the move.

According to government sources, the implementation of suspension of operation is getting a "good response" from the people in the Valley.

“The government wants that during the ensuing month of Ramzan, no section of society and in particular, the Muslim community should face any difficulty," the government had said while declaring a "temporary ceasefire".

According to government sources, the implementation of suspension of operation is getting a "good response"

Nearly a week after announcing suspension of operation by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K), sources in the government say they may consider extending the suspension even after Ramzan. On May 16, the Centre had asked security forces in J&K to suspend operation for a month due to the holy month of Ramzan after CM Mehbooba Mufti and other political parties pushed for a "suspended peace". Home minister Rajnath Singh had later said the Centre is suspending operation and informed J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti who welcomed the move. According to government sources, the implementation of suspension of operation is getting a "good response" from the people in the Valley. “The government wants that during the ensuing month of Ramzan, no section of society and in particular, the Muslim community should face any difficulty," the government had said while declaring a "temporary ceasefire".

After 'good response', government may extend suspension of operation in J&K beyond Ramzan

The holy month of Ramzan got a wee bit more special for the needy people in Hyderabad. A non-profitable trust in Hyderabad is on a mission to serve Iftar to over 500 poor people every day during the month of Ramadan.

Hyderabad's Zaheer Uddin Khan Memorial Trust also distributes ration to over one thousand poor families who can't afford it.

"In this month of Ramzan we serve food for Iftar to poor people including children from poor families who can't afford it. They come here after their Roza (Fast) and eat. More than 500 poor people visit here daily to consume food. We serve food for all 30 days," Mohammad Azhar, member of Zaheer Uddin Khan Memorial Trust said.

"Our trust also distributes ration to over1000 poor families in Ramzan. We provide all this help from our own income," Azhar added.

"It's very appreciative that they distribute ration to so many families, even I and my family receive ration from this trust and we also come here to consume Iftar food daily during the month of Ramzan," Mohammad Shafi Ulla, a beneficiary of the trust, said. &nbsp

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp

&nbsp

Hyderabad's Zaheer Uddin Khan Memorial Trust also distributes ration to over one thousand poor families who can't afford it

The holy month of Ramzan got a wee bit more special for the needy people in Hyderabad. A non-profitable trust in Hyderabad is on a mission to serve Iftar to over 500 poor people every day during the month of Ramadan. Hyderabad's Zaheer Uddin Khan Memorial Trust also distributes ration to over one thousand poor families who can't afford it. "In this month of Ramzan we serve food for Iftar to poor people including children from poor families who can't afford it. They come here after their Roza (Fast) and eat. More than 500 poor people visit here daily to consume food. We serve food for all 30 days," Mohammad Azhar, member of Zaheer Uddin Khan Memorial Trust said. "Our trust also distributes ration to over1000 poor families in Ramzan. We provide all this help from our own income," Azhar added. "It's very appreciative that they distribute ration to so many families, even I and my family receive ration from this trust and we also come here to consume Iftar food daily during the month of Ramzan," Mohammad Shafi Ulla, a beneficiary of the trust, said. (With inputs from ANI)

Hyderabad: Trust distributes Iftar food, rations to poor during Ramzan

After the conditional <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/1-civilian-dies-3-soldiers-injured-in-jk-during-stone-pelting-134847">ceasefire announcement on May 16th</a>, only five incidents of stone-pelting was reported in Jammu and Kashmir, the J&K government informed the home ministry today.

The home ministry <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/cm-mehbooba-mufti-meets-family-of-tourist-killed-in-stone-pelting--135449">had declared last Wednesday</a> that security forces won't be launching operations in J&K during the holy month of Ramzan.

Rajnath Singh had said the decision was taken "to help the peace loving Muslims observe Ramzan in a peaceful environment."

J&K chief minister Mehbooba Mufti&nbsp;who first pushed for the move, had welcomed the government's initiative of "creating a peaceful and amicable environment for a sustainable dialogue".

The government said between April 1 to April 5th, 92 incidents of stone-pelting was reported in the Valley, the J&K government said.

The Mehbooba Mufti&nbsp;government told the Centre that no incident of stone pelting incidents reported during PM Modi's visit to Kashmir on Saturday.

The Home ministry had declared last Wednesday that security forces won't be launching operations in J&K during the holy month of Ramzan.

After the conditional ceasefire announcement on May 16th, only five incidents of stone-pelting was reported in Jammu and Kashmir, the J&K government informed the home ministry today. The home ministry had declared last Wednesday that security forces won't be launching operations in J&K during the holy month of Ramzan. Rajnath Singh had said the decision was taken "to help the peace loving Muslims observe Ramzan in a peaceful environment." J&K chief minister Mehbooba Mufti who first pushed for the move, had welcomed the government's initiative of "creating a peaceful and amicable environment for a sustainable dialogue". The government said between April 1 to April 5th, 92 incidents of stone-pelting was reported in the Valley, the J&K government said. The Mehbooba Mufti government told the Centre that no incident of stone pelting incidents reported during PM Modi's visit to Kashmir on Saturday.

Stone pelting incidents down, no pelting during PM's visit: J&K government to Centre

Hours after "pleading" with the BSF to stop firing, the Pakistani forces again conducted unprovoked firing and shelling along the International border in Jammu and Kashmir on the intervening night of May 20-21.

The forces opened fire on the Indian side at around 10:30 pm in J&K's&nbsp;Arnia&nbsp;and Ramgarh sector of Samba.

The shelling was followed by mortar firing targetting the forward posts of the BSF and villages.

The Pak army's plea came after one of its soldiers succumbed to injuries after he was hit by heavy artillery from across the border.&nbsp;

There was no casualty reported as yet.

A BSF spokesperson said on Saturday,"(Pakistan) Rangers called up the Jammu BSF formation today and beseeched to stop firing".

"The befitting reply by the BSF units to the unprovoked shelling and firing across the IB by the Pakistani forces has forced them to plead for a ceasefire," a senior official said.

The firing from the Pakistani side has come amid the government's&nbsp;suspension of operations against militants in Jammu and Kashmir during the month of Ramzan.

The Union Ministry's order which will continue until June 16 has asked the&nbsp;security forces not to conduct operations during the month of Ramzan in J&K.

The forces, however, have the right to retaliate if attacked or to safeguard the lives of innocent people.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The ceasefire was violated in Jammu and Kashmir's Arnia and Ramgarh sector of Samba

Hours after "pleading" with the BSF to stop firing, the Pakistani forces again conducted unprovoked firing and shelling along the International border in Jammu and Kashmir on the intervening night of May 20-21. The forces opened fire on the Indian side at around 10:30 pm in J&K's Arnia and Ramgarh sector of Samba. The shelling was followed by mortar firing targetting the forward posts of the BSF and villages. The Pak army's plea came after one of its soldiers succumbed to injuries after he was hit by heavy artillery from across the border. There was no casualty reported as yet. A BSF spokesperson said on Saturday,"(Pakistan) Rangers called up the Jammu BSF formation today and beseeched to stop firing". "The befitting reply by the BSF units to the unprovoked shelling and firing across the IB by the Pakistani forces has forced them to plead for a ceasefire," a senior official said. The firing from the Pakistani side has come amid the government's suspension of operations against militants in Jammu and Kashmir during the month of Ramzan. The Union Ministry's order which will continue until June 16 has asked the security forces not to conduct operations during the month of Ramzan in J&K. The forces, however, have the right to retaliate if attacked or to safeguard the lives of innocent people.

Hours after 'pleading' with BSF to stop shooting, Pakistan violates ceasefire

Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Monday launched a stinging attack on Pakistan for unprovoked mortar shelling and small arms fire along the international border even during the holy month of Ramzan, a day after the Pakistani Rangers called and 'pleaded' to stop firing.

He said that this was the most 'napaak' activity that Pakistan could indulge in during the holy month.&nbsp;

The minister of state in the Prime Minister's Office said that by firing from across the border Pakistan had proved to the world that it had no faith in Ramzan, Islam and Holy Quran.&nbsp;

The unprovoked mortar shelling started in the morning, with Pakistani Rangers firing 80 my and 120 my mortars on civilian areas. In view of the firing, there was panic in the area with people staying indoors.

Significantly, on Sunday, a security forces spokesperson said: “Rangers had called up Jammu BSF formation and beseeched to stop firing.” He added that “for last three days, the precision fire of BSF troopers on Pak firing locations inflicted heavy loss to them”.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Those who are indulging in firing from across the border have proved to the entire world that they have the least of faith in Ramzan, Islam & Holy Quran. This is the country which calls itself Pakistan & is indulging in most ‘Napaak’ activity during Ramzan: MoS PMO Jitendra Singh <a href="https://t.co/9XqCoiOJQ0">pic.twitter.com/9XqCoiOJQ0</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/998470485997371392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The ceasefire violations and attempts to infiltrate the International Border by Pakistan have significantly increased in the fasting month of Ramzan.

Last week, Pakistan Rangers heavily shelled villages and Border out Posts in Jammu, killing two BSF jawans and four civilians, while injuring 12 others.&nbsp;

The minister of state in the Prime Minister's Office said that by firing from across the border Pakistan had proved to the world that it had no faith in Ramzan, Islam and Holy Quran.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Monday launched a stinging attack on Pakistan for unprovoked mortar shelling and small arms fire along the international border even during the holy month of Ramzan, a day after the Pakistani Rangers called and 'pleaded' to stop firing. He said that this was the most 'napaak' activity that Pakistan could indulge in during the holy month. The minister of state in the Prime Minister's Office said that by firing from across the border Pakistan had proved to the world that it had no faith in Ramzan, Islam and Holy Quran. The unprovoked mortar shelling started in the morning, with Pakistani Rangers firing 80 my and 120 my mortars on civilian areas. In view of the firing, there was panic in the area with people staying indoors. Significantly, on Sunday, a security forces spokesperson said: “Rangers had called up Jammu BSF formation and beseeched to stop firing.” He added that “for last three days, the precision fire of BSF troopers on Pak firing locations inflicted heavy loss to them”. Those who are indulging in firing from across the border have proved to the entire world that they have the least of faith in Ramzan, Islam & Holy Quran. This is the country which calls itself Pakistan & is indulging in most ‘Napaak’ activity during Ramzan: MoS PMO Jitendra Singh pic.twitter.com/9XqCoiOJQ0 — ANI (@ANI) May 21, 2018 × The ceasefire violations and attempts to infiltrate the International Border by Pakistan have significantly increased in the fasting month of Ramzan. Last week, Pakistan Rangers heavily shelled villages and Border out Posts in Jammu, killing two BSF jawans and four civilians, while injuring 12 others.

They have least faith in Ramzan & Holy Quran: Jitendra Singh on ceasefire violation by Pakistan

As Muslims all across the globe celebrate the holy month of Ramadan, United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday released an official statement stating that Ramadan "reminds us of the richness Muslims add to the religious tapestry of American life."&nbsp;

According to reports, the White House may also organise a small Iftar event on June 6, with ambassadors from Muslim majority countries and other US Muslim leaders as attendees.

Last year in January, Trump had signed an order banning refugee admissions and temporarily barring people from seven Muslim-majority countries -- Iraq, Syria, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. The move instantly soured United States' relations with Muslim Americans. The Trump administration, in 2016, also pressed for mosque surveillance for security.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Last year in January, Trump signed an order banning refugee admissions and temporarily barring people from seven Muslim-majority countries

As Muslims all across the globe celebrate the holy month of Ramadan, United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday released an official statement stating that Ramadan "reminds us of the richness Muslims add to the religious tapestry of American life." According to reports, the White House may also organise a small Iftar event on June 6, with ambassadors from Muslim majority countries and other US Muslim leaders as attendees. Last year in January, Trump had signed an order banning refugee admissions and temporarily barring people from seven Muslim-majority countries -- Iraq, Syria, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. The move instantly soured United States' relations with Muslim Americans. The Trump administration, in 2016, also pressed for mosque surveillance for security.

Muslims add to religious tapestry of American life: Trump's Ramadan message

The holy month of Ramadan is here again! Muslims from all across the world will observe month-long fasting to honour Prophet Muhammad. The pious occasion falls during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is believed that during this auspicious time, the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad on the night of Lailat ul Qadr.&nbsp;

The month of Ramadan is also known as the month of the Quraan. Devotees begin their day by eating a meal followed by a day-long fast that is only broken after sunset. Believers read Quaraan, offer prayers throughout the day.&nbsp;

The pre-fast meal of the day is known as Sehri while the evening meal, with which the day-long fast (Swam) is broken is called Iftar. Worshippers then break for the evening prayer, Maghrib.

It is believed that the month of Ramadan inculcates self-discipline, self-control in devotees. One fasts to learn self-control, sacrifice and discipline. During the holy month, Muslims refrain from consuming alcohol.&nbsp;

Usually, before partaking of the Iftaar meal, devotees break their fast by consuming dates and some milk. It is believed that Prophet Muhammad broke his fast by consuming three dates and water.

Therefore, dates assume great importance during Ramazan. Muslim households put dates to a variety of preparations, from dates shakes, sherbets to mouthwatering puddings and desserts like phirni, kheer and sheermal that are served during Iftaar.&nbsp;

Ramzan Mubarak!

The pre-fast meal of the day is known as Sehri while the evening meal, with which the day-long fast (Swam) is broken is called Iftar

The holy month of Ramadan is here again! Muslims from all across the world will observe month-long fasting to honour Prophet Muhammad. The pious occasion falls during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is believed that during this auspicious time, the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad on the night of Lailat ul Qadr. The month of Ramadan is also known as the month of the Quraan. Devotees begin their day by eating a meal followed by a day-long fast that is only broken after sunset. Believers read Quaraan, offer prayers throughout the day. The pre-fast meal of the day is known as Sehri while the evening meal, with which the day-long fast (Swam) is broken is called Iftar. Worshippers then break for the evening prayer, Maghrib. It is believed that the month of Ramadan inculcates self-discipline, self-control in devotees. One fasts to learn self-control, sacrifice and discipline. During the holy month, Muslims refrain from consuming alcohol. Usually, before partaking of the Iftaar meal, devotees break their fast by consuming dates and some milk. It is believed that Prophet Muhammad broke his fast by consuming three dates and water. Therefore, dates assume great importance during Ramazan. Muslim households put dates to a variety of preparations, from dates shakes, sherbets to mouthwatering puddings and desserts like phirni, kheer and sheermal that are served during Iftaar. Ramzan Mubarak!

Ramadan 2018: Why dates are important during holy month

A leading UK government school wants the government to take a firm stand on children wearing the hijab and fasting during Ramzan.&nbsp;

PTI reported that St Stephen&#39;s school in Newham, east London, was one of the first in the country to ban the hijab for girls under 8 in 2016, and plans to do the same for girls under 11 starting September 2018.&nbsp;

The school also imposed strict rules on fasting on campus during Ramzan.&nbsp;

PTI reported that a majority of students at St Stephen&#39;s are from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, and that the school is run by Indian-origin principal Neena Lall.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/london-muslim-girl-wearing-hijab-stopped-from-ordering-at-mcdonalds-25760" target="_blank">Muslim girl wearing hijab stopped from ordering at London McDonald&#39;s</a>

&quot;The (education) department should step up and take it out of our hands and tell every school this is how it (fasting) should be. The same for the hijab, it should not be our decision. It is unfair to teachers and very unfair to governors. We are unpaid. Why should we get the backlash,&quot; PTI reported Arif Qawi, chairman of governors at St Stephen&#39;s School, as telling The Sunday Times&#39;.

&quot;We did not ban fasting altogether but we encouraged them (children) to fast on holidays, at weekends and not on the school campus,&quot; Qawi added.&nbsp;

Qawi&#39;s point was that on campus, it is the teachers who are responsible for children&#39;s health and safety.&nbsp;

UK&#39;s education department however seems to have lobbed the ball in the school&#39;s court.&nbsp;

&quot;It is a matter for individual schools to decide how to accommodate children observing Ramadan, and to set uniform policies. We issue clear guidance on uniform and to help schools understand their legal duties under the Equality Act,&quot; a Department for Education statement said.&nbsp;

PTI added that St Stephen&#39;s had in November 2017 topped a prestigious primary schools&#39; league table published annually by The Sunday Times.

It was listed as the best school in England in the &quot;Schools Guide 2018&quot; for a strong teaching record.

A majority of students at St Stephen's school in Newham, east London, are from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh

A leading UK government school wants the government to take a firm stand on children wearing the hijab and fasting during Ramzan. PTI reported that St Stephen's school in Newham, east London, was one of the first in the country to ban the hijab for girls under 8 in 2016, and plans to do the same for girls under 11 starting September 2018. The school also imposed strict rules on fasting on campus during Ramzan. PTI reported that a majority of students at St Stephen's are from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, and that the school is run by Indian-origin principal Neena Lall. Also read: Muslim girl wearing hijab stopped from ordering at London McDonald's "The (education) department should step up and take it out of our hands and tell every school this is how it (fasting) should be. The same for the hijab, it should not be our decision. It is unfair to teachers and very unfair to governors. We are unpaid. Why should we get the backlash," PTI reported Arif Qawi, chairman of governors at St Stephen's School, as telling The Sunday Times'. "We did not ban fasting altogether but we encouraged them (children) to fast on holidays, at weekends and not on the school campus," Qawi added. Qawi's point was that on campus, it is the teachers who are responsible for children's health and safety. UK's education department however seems to have lobbed the ball in the school's court. "It is a matter for individual schools to decide how to accommodate children observing Ramadan, and to set uniform policies. We issue clear guidance on uniform and to help schools understand their legal duties under the Equality Act," a Department for Education statement said. PTI added that St Stephen's had in November 2017 topped a prestigious primary schools' league table published annually by The Sunday Times. It was listed as the best school in England in the "Schools Guide 2018" for a strong teaching record.

UK school wants government to ban hijab, fasting for children

This is a very different kind of a Ramadan story.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
It is not one that goes around debunking myths of Ramadan, nor does it subscribe you to any type of dos and don&#39;ts of fasting. It even steers clear of the overused path of showcasing mouth-watering Ramadan food that you can open your fast with or try out at dawn for suhoor ( a meal eaten at dawn, before starting with the fast).&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
But it does have food pictures. After all, what is Ramadan without a bright spectacle of korma, nihari, biryani and kebab infused in the aroma of garam masala or a sight of freshly prepared kulfi falooda, malai jalebi and silver coated phirni with extra almonds in a kulhad (earthen cup)!&nbsp;

It is obvious that the elaborate menu has your attention but this story focuses on sellers and not what&rsquo;s sold.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Sher Bahadur from Dhampur in District Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh is one such seller who talks about his love for Ramadan and how it has changed his life for the better. Belonging to a family of confectioners, Sher Bahadur believes that it&rsquo;s in his blood to make sweets. So every year, in the month of Ramadan, he makes the best kind of dry, raw sewai.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;Our family has always been in the trade of making sweets, we are famous for our &lsquo;mithai&rsquo; and &lsquo;batasha&rsquo; back home. Here in Batla House (a popular Muslim neighbourhood) in Delhi, my cousin brother and I sell at least 12 types of uncooked sewai: Lachha feni, Benarasi feni, Benarasi kemami, Zafrani sewai, Rasgolla Feni, Khajla and more&rdquo;, he says. &nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false"><img alt="" draggable="false" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/image%20tweeted%20out%20by%20alyssa%20(1)-20170623081936.jpg" />
<div class="media-description">
There are more than 15 varieties of sewai in the market, with some of them specially made for Ramadan (WION)
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="javascript:void(0)" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

Sher Bahadur is 45 years old, married with a wife and six kids who stay in Dhampur. A small-time trader, he doesn&rsquo;t have the money to keep a family of eight in Delhi but there&rsquo;s hope for him, as every Ramadan, he is able to save a considerable amount to buy his own property in the capital.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;Ramadan is a blessing for my family. I have been selling sewai in Ramadan since 20 years now and every year, this month, our profit simply doubles or even triples sometimes. I eagerly wait for Ramadan to earn more as I have been saving up extra money to buy my own house here (Delhi)&rdquo;, he adds.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="row">
<div class="article-blockquote">
<div class="col-sm-10 col-sm-offset-1 blockquote-content quoteshare">
<blockquote>
<h5>I eagerly wait for Ramadan to earn more as I have been saving up extra money to buy my own house in Delhi.</h5>
</blockquote>
</div>

<div class="col-sm-1 blockquote-content">
<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=I eagerly wait for Ramadan to earn more as I have been saving up extra money to buy my own house in Delhi." target="_blank">&nbsp;</a></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqquoteclosemark">&times;</a></div>
</div>
</div>

&nbsp;For 11 months of the year, Sher Bahadur works as a labourer in Delhi, earning enough to survive in the city and saving up the rest for his family.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Not wanting to rely on the money earned from the confectionary shop in Dhampur, which is shared by his siblings and their children, he comes to Delhi off and on to make some extra money for his kids.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Co-sharing a rented shop in Batla House, Sher Bahadur works with his 40-year-old cousin brother Mohammed Raees to make some quick money in Ramadan. On speaking with Raees about his dependence on Ramadan for livelihood, he joyfully responds, &ldquo;The contrast in our income between regular months and Ramadan is incredible. From Rs. 11,000 a month, it shoots up to anywhere between Rs. 35,000- 40,000. We make the most of this time and keep our shop open 24/7.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false"><img alt="" draggable="false" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/image%20tweeted%20out%20by%20alyssa%20(6)-20170623080158.jpg" />
<div class="media-description">
Sher Bahadur (R) and Mohammed Raees (L) sitting in their shop of sewai which they specially procure for Ramadan (WION)
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="javascript:void(0)" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

&ldquo;In Ramadan, we shut it only for two hours after &lsquo;fajr&rsquo;, the morning prayers. People buy from us at all odd times, after &lsquo;iftaar&rsquo; in the evening, before &lsquo;suhoor&rsquo; at dawn, so we can&rsquo;t afford to close it. We divide the time of manning the shop and subsequently the profits.&rdquo;

Sher Bahadur and Mohammed Raees are no exceptions. There are many like them who leave their routine jobs to sell items specific to the holy month of Ramadan. They all look forward to Ramadan earnings in order to build their future and of their children.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false"><img alt="" draggable="false" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/image%20tweeted%20out%20by%20alyssa%20(4)-20170623083152.jpg" />
<div class="media-description">
A khujoor (dates) seller smiles after a profitable day at work during Ramadan (WION)
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="javascript:void(0)" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false"><img alt="" draggable="false" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/image%20tweeted%20out%20by%20alyssa-20170623080944.jpg" />
<div class="media-description">
Faqaar makes a lot of profit selling dates in Ramadan (WION)
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="javascript:void(0)" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

Faqaar from Bhalswa village in the outskirts of Delhi comes to Nizamuddin, another popular Muslim neighbourhood, in the month of Ramadan to sell dates. The sweet savoury is ubiquitous in every Muslim household during this time and he uses this as an opportunity to earn quick money.&nbsp;

He says, &ldquo;I have recently gotten married and have a lot of responsibilities. The profits I earn during Ramadan are incomparable to what I earn in the rest of the months. It&rsquo;s been 7-8 years since I have been selling &lsquo;khujoor&rsquo; (dates) and I come here to Nizamuddin every year because there is always a good demand. People break their fasts with dates and for most, it&rsquo;s an essential part of their Ramadan routine.&rdquo; 
&nbsp; 
He adds, &ldquo;On regular days I sell men&rsquo;s clothes which don&#39;t amount to a lot of money but during Ramadan I earn Rs. 1000-2000 daily selling dates. &#39;Ye barqat ka maheena hai&#39;. (It is an auspicious and blessed month).&rdquo;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="row">
<div class="article-blockquote">
<div class="col-sm-10 col-sm-offset-1 blockquote-content quoteshare">
<blockquote>
<h5>On regular days I sell men&rsquo;s clothes which don&#39;t amount to a lot of money but during Ramadan I earn Rs. 1000-2000 daily selling dates. &#39;Ye barqat ka maheena hai&#39;.</h5>
</blockquote>
</div>

<div class="col-sm-1 blockquote-content">
<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=On regular days I sell men?s clothes which don't amount to a lot of money but during Ramadan I earn Rs. 1000-2000 daily selling dates. 'Ye barqat ka maheena hai'." target="_blank">&nbsp;</a></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqquoteclosemark">&times;</a></div>
</div>
</div>

For 30-years-old Ayub, who sells &lsquo;Feni&rsquo; (a type of raw sewai) outside Jama Masjid in Old Delhi, Ramadan is a month of a complete shift. He says, &ldquo;I have been selling feni from a young age. My father would sell a cart of biryani every day that my mother made at home on regular days but he would stop selling it during Ramadan and switch to feni. I have learnt it from him. I source the sewai from different pockets in Delhi, from wherever it&rsquo;s cheaper and come to Old Delhi to sell it. People from all over the city come here to buy. I have been able to marry off my elder sister with savings accumulated over the years due to Ramadan.&rdquo;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false"><img alt="" draggable="false" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/image%20tweeted%20out%20by%20alyssa%20(5)-20170623075441.jpg" />
<div class="media-description">
Ayub with his stock of sewai, meeting the needs of those eat it compulsively every day during Ramadan (WION)
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="javascript:void(0)" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

Khujoor and Sewai sellers aren&#39;t the only ones who wait for Ramadan every year. Even regular fruit sellers like Abdul Basheer from Nizamuddin eagerly wait for the month to start. He says, &ldquo;Who doesn&rsquo;t like more money? I have been living in Delhi for 15 years and come from a village in East Delhi. Ramadan is good for business. In normal days, I earn about Rs 1000 daily--it doubles during Ramadan as everybody who is fasting eats fruit chaat. So there is a constant surge in demand for fruits.&rdquo;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false"><img alt="" draggable="false" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/image%20tweeted%20out%20by%20alyssa%20(5)-20170623075750.jpg" />
<div class="media-description">
Abdul Basheer with his cart of fruits in Nizamuddin for Ramadan (WION)
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="javascript:void(0)" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

Abdul, like the rest of them, gets employed in other areas of work during the rest of the months. He does plumbing in cooperative societies and leaves every other work to sell fruits during Ramadan. For him doing business in Nizamuddin during Ramadan is an experience in itself. He says, &ldquo;People from different backgrounds and cultures come here to pay respect at the Dargah. Doing business with them opens horizons and makes you familiar with a different set of living styles.&rdquo;

This trend, is, however, not just limited to the Delhi but is popular around all major metro cities during Ramadan, offering a new lease of life for many who are stuck in jobs that don&rsquo;t pay enough.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Ramadan or Ramazan as many call it is the Islamic holy month of fasting where more than a billion people every year for almost 30 days, don&rsquo;t eat or drink during the day from dawn to sunrise. It is kept with an intention to get closer to God while avoiding any other distraction of physical pleasure, food et al.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Billions of Muslims around the world are today celebrating &#39;Jamat ul Vida&#39;, which is the last Friday of Ramadan. It is believed that whatever prayer is made today gets accepted by God.

(WION)

"Ramadan is a blessing for my family...This month, our profit simply doubles or even triples sometimes", says Sher Bahadur, a food trader from Delhi.

This is a very different kind of a Ramadan story. It is not one that goes around debunking myths of Ramadan, nor does it subscribe you to any type of dos and don'ts of fasting. It even steers clear of the overused path of showcasing mouth-watering Ramadan food that you can open your fast with or try out at dawn for suhoor ( a meal eaten at dawn, before starting with the fast). But it does have food pictures. After all, what is Ramadan without a bright spectacle of korma, nihari, biryani and kebab infused in the aroma of garam masala or a sight of freshly prepared kulfi falooda, malai jalebi and silver coated phirni with extra almonds in a kulhad (earthen cup)! It is obvious that the elaborate menu has your attention but this story focuses on sellers and not what’s sold. Sher Bahadur from Dhampur in District Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh is one such seller who talks about his love for Ramadan and how it has changed his life for the better. Belonging to a family of confectioners, Sher Bahadur believes that it’s in his blood to make sweets. So every year, in the month of Ramadan, he makes the best kind of dry, raw sewai. “Our family has always been in the trade of making sweets, we are famous for our ‘mithai’ and ‘batasha’ back home. Here in Batla House (a popular Muslim neighbourhood) in Delhi, my cousin brother and I sell at least 12 types of uncooked sewai: Lachha feni, Benarasi feni, Benarasi kemami, Zafrani sewai, Rasgolla Feni, Khajla and more”, he says. There are more than 15 varieties of sewai in the market, with some of them specially made for Ramadan (WION) × Sher Bahadur is 45 years old, married with a wife and six kids who stay in Dhampur. A small-time trader, he doesn’t have the money to keep a family of eight in Delhi but there’s hope for him, as every Ramadan, he is able to save a considerable amount to buy his own property in the capital. “Ramadan is a blessing for my family. I have been selling sewai in Ramadan since 20 years now and every year, this month, our profit simply doubles or even triples sometimes. I eagerly wait for Ramadan to earn more as I have been saving up extra money to buy my own house here (Delhi)”, he adds. I eagerly wait for Ramadan to earn more as I have been saving up extra money to buy my own house in Delhi. × For 11 months of the year, Sher Bahadur works as a labourer in Delhi, earning enough to survive in the city and saving up the rest for his family. Not wanting to rely on the money earned from the confectionary shop in Dhampur, which is shared by his siblings and their children, he comes to Delhi off and on to make some extra money for his kids. Co-sharing a rented shop in Batla House, Sher Bahadur works with his 40-year-old cousin brother Mohammed Raees to make some quick money in Ramadan. On speaking with Raees about his dependence on Ramadan for livelihood, he joyfully responds, “The contrast in our income between regular months and Ramadan is incredible. From Rs. 11,000 a month, it shoots up to anywhere between Rs. 35,000- 40,000. We make the most of this time and keep our shop open 24/7. Sher Bahadur (R) and Mohammed Raees (L) sitting in their shop of sewai which they specially procure for Ramadan (WION) × “In Ramadan, we shut it only for two hours after ‘fajr’, the morning prayers. People buy from us at all odd times, after ‘iftaar’ in the evening, before ‘suhoor’ at dawn, so we can’t afford to close it. We divide the time of manning the shop and subsequently the profits.” Sher Bahadur and Mohammed Raees are no exceptions. There are many like them who leave their routine jobs to sell items specific to the holy month of Ramadan. They all look forward to Ramadan earnings in order to build their future and of their children. A khujoor (dates) seller smiles after a profitable day at work during Ramadan (WION) × Faqaar makes a lot of profit selling dates in Ramadan (WION) × Faqaar from Bhalswa village in the outskirts of Delhi comes to Nizamuddin, another popular Muslim neighbourhood, in the month of Ramadan to sell dates. The sweet savoury is ubiquitous in every Muslim household during this time and he uses this as an opportunity to earn quick money. He says, “I have recently gotten married and have a lot of responsibilities. The profits I earn during Ramadan are incomparable to what I earn in the rest of the months. It’s been 7-8 years since I have been selling ‘khujoor’ (dates) and I come here to Nizamuddin every year because there is always a good demand. People break their fasts with dates and for most, it’s an essential part of their Ramadan routine.” He adds, “On regular days I sell men’s clothes which don't amount to a lot of money but during Ramadan I earn Rs. 1000-2000 daily selling dates. 'Ye barqat ka maheena hai'. (It is an auspicious and blessed month).” On regular days I sell men’s clothes which don't amount to a lot of money but during Ramadan I earn Rs. 1000-2000 daily selling dates. 'Ye barqat ka maheena hai'. × For 30-years-old Ayub, who sells ‘Feni’ (a type of raw sewai) outside Jama Masjid in Old Delhi, Ramadan is a month of a complete shift. He says, “I have been selling feni from a young age. My father would sell a cart of biryani every day that my mother made at home on regular days but he would stop selling it during Ramadan and switch to feni. I have learnt it from him. I source the sewai from different pockets in Delhi, from wherever it’s cheaper and come to Old Delhi to sell it. People from all over the city come here to buy. I have been able to marry off my elder sister with savings accumulated over the years due to Ramadan.” Ayub with his stock of sewai, meeting the needs of those eat it compulsively every day during Ramadan (WION) × Khujoor and Sewai sellers aren't the only ones who wait for Ramadan every year. Even regular fruit sellers like Abdul Basheer from Nizamuddin eagerly wait for the month to start. He says, “Who doesn’t like more money? I have been living in Delhi for 15 years and come from a village in East Delhi. Ramadan is good for business. In normal days, I earn about Rs 1000 daily--it doubles during Ramadan as everybody who is fasting eats fruit chaat. So there is a constant surge in demand for fruits.” Abdul Basheer with his cart of fruits in Nizamuddin for Ramadan (WION) × Abdul, like the rest of them, gets employed in other areas of work during the rest of the months. He does plumbing in cooperative societies and leaves every other work to sell fruits during Ramadan. For him doing business in Nizamuddin during Ramadan is an experience in itself. He says, “People from different backgrounds and cultures come here to pay respect at the Dargah. Doing business with them opens horizons and makes you familiar with a different set of living styles.” This trend, is, however, not just limited to the Delhi but is popular around all major metro cities during Ramadan, offering a new lease of life for many who are stuck in jobs that don’t pay enough. Ramadan or Ramazan as many call it is the Islamic holy month of fasting where more than a billion people every year for almost 30 days, don’t eat or drink during the day from dawn to sunrise. It is kept with an intention to get closer to God while avoiding any other distraction of physical pleasure, food et al. Billions of Muslims around the world are today celebrating 'Jamat ul Vida', which is the last Friday of Ramadan. It is believed that whatever prayer is made today gets accepted by God. (WION)

For the food sellers of Delhi, Ramadan is a lifesaver

In the tragic Grenfell tower fire, many lives were saved because of Muslim residents who were awake for Sehri (pre-dawn meal) during the holy month of Ramzaan.&nbsp;

Muslim residents observing Ramzaan were the first ones to notice the smoke coming out of the seventh floor of the Grenfell tower,&nbsp;media reports said. &nbsp;

Waiting to have their pre-dawn meal, Sehri, the residents came out in a frenzy and began knocking on their neighbours&#39; doors to alert them of the imminent danger.

No fire alarms or water sprinklers had gone off till then, an eyewitness said.&nbsp;

A number of local mosques, churches and Sikh temples&nbsp;opened their doors to help those who were evacuated.&nbsp;

Seventeen people have died in the fire so far. The death toll in the incident is likely to rise further.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Fasting Muslims waiting for pre-dawn meal were the first to notice Grenfell fire; went out to save neighbours' lives

In the tragic Grenfell tower fire, many lives were saved because of Muslim residents who were awake for Sehri (pre-dawn meal) during the holy month of Ramzaan. Muslim residents observing Ramzaan were the first ones to notice the smoke coming out of the seventh floor of the Grenfell tower, media reports said. Waiting to have their pre-dawn meal, Sehri, the residents came out in a frenzy and began knocking on their neighbours' doors to alert them of the imminent danger. No fire alarms or water sprinklers had gone off till then, an eyewitness said. A number of local mosques, churches and Sikh temples opened their doors to help those who were evacuated. Seventeen people have died in the fire so far. The death toll in the incident is likely to rise further.

London tower fire: Muslims fasting for Ramzaan helped save lives

At this year&#39;s International Yoga Day celebrations here, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have for company scores of roza-observing Muslims who will be performing various asanas.

At least 300 Muslim men and women under the banner of the Muslim Rashtriya Manch will be among the 55,000-strong participants at the Ramabai Ambedkar Maidan.

&quot;More than 1,000 Muslims had contacted us about participating in the International Yoga Day celebrations, but at least 300 have confirmed their participation. Most of the participants will be observing roza, while performing yoga.

&quot;In fact most of them are likely to arrive to the programme venue after Sehri (pre-dawn meal),&quot; Mahiraj Dhwaj Singh, national co-convenor (organisation) of Muslim Rashtriya Manch for UP and Uttarakhand, told PTI.

Azam Khan, the national president of Shriram Mandir Nirman Muslim Karsevak Manch, will also be performing yoga while fasting. 
&quot;I will be participating in the third International Yoga Day celebrations and performing various yoga asanas (postures),&quot; he said.

Singh said a request seeking a separate area for the Muslims participants will be made to the organisers.

Mohsin Raza, minister of state for Muslim Waqf and Haj, when contacted, said, &quot;I will also participate and perform yoga while observing roza. Both yoga and roza are good for one&#39;s health.&quot;

Raees Khan, the UP and Uttarakhand in-charge of Muslim Rashtriya Manch, informed that the manch is trying to ensure attendance of at least 1,000 Muslim yoga enthusiasts at Modi&#39;s programme.

&quot;So far 300 have already confirmed their participation. Most of the participants will be rozadars. Since 15 days, the participants have been practicing different aasans and postures,&quot; he said.

Member of UP unit of BJP Iqbal Haidar, who also heads a brotherhood committee of Muslims and had pledged to build Ram temple in Ayodhya, said, &quot;I will be fasting, but at the same time participate in the Yoga Day celebrations. Yoga and roza are two different entities, and there should be no confusion in this regard. There should also be no difficulty or restriction on the participation of a rozedar in yoga programmes.&quot;

For convenience of ordinary citizens, LED screens will be installed at different parks in Lucknow, so that visitors could also participate simultaneously. Directions have already been issued to hold a 28-day workshop for the participants prior to the International Yoga Day.

The main programme would be the mass yoga demonstration from 7.00 am to 8.00 am, which will adhere to Common Yoga Protocol. Other events would include yoga fests, seminars, workshops, musical and cultural programmes.

(PTI)&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have for company scores of roza-observing Muslims who will be performing various asanas

At this year's International Yoga Day celebrations here, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have for company scores of roza-observing Muslims who will be performing various asanas. At least 300 Muslim men and women under the banner of the Muslim Rashtriya Manch will be among the 55,000-strong participants at the Ramabai Ambedkar Maidan. "More than 1,000 Muslims had contacted us about participating in the International Yoga Day celebrations, but at least 300 have confirmed their participation. Most of the participants will be observing roza, while performing yoga. "In fact most of them are likely to arrive to the programme venue after Sehri (pre-dawn meal)," Mahiraj Dhwaj Singh, national co-convenor (organisation) of Muslim Rashtriya Manch for UP and Uttarakhand, told PTI. Azam Khan, the national president of Shriram Mandir Nirman Muslim Karsevak Manch, will also be performing yoga while fasting. "I will be participating in the third International Yoga Day celebrations and performing various yoga asanas (postures)," he said. Singh said a request seeking a separate area for the Muslims participants will be made to the organisers. Mohsin Raza, minister of state for Muslim Waqf and Haj, when contacted, said, "I will also participate and perform yoga while observing roza. Both yoga and roza are good for one's health." Raees Khan, the UP and Uttarakhand in-charge of Muslim Rashtriya Manch, informed that the manch is trying to ensure attendance of at least 1,000 Muslim yoga enthusiasts at Modi's programme. "So far 300 have already confirmed their participation. Most of the participants will be rozadars. Since 15 days, the participants have been practicing different aasans and postures," he said. Member of UP unit of BJP Iqbal Haidar, who also heads a brotherhood committee of Muslims and had pledged to build Ram temple in Ayodhya, said, "I will be fasting, but at the same time participate in the Yoga Day celebrations. Yoga and roza are two different entities, and there should be no confusion in this regard. There should also be no difficulty or restriction on the participation of a rozedar in yoga programmes." For convenience of ordinary citizens, LED screens will be installed at different parks in Lucknow, so that visitors could also participate simultaneously. Directions have already been issued to hold a 28-day workshop for the participants prior to the International Yoga Day. The main programme would be the mass yoga demonstration from 7.00 am to 8.00 am, which will adhere to Common Yoga Protocol. Other events would include yoga fests, seminars, workshops, musical and cultural programmes. (PTI)

Yoga Day: Fasting Muslims to take part in PM Modi's UP event

Nine people were killed in a stampede at a party in central Ghana to mark the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramzan, a public official told reporters today. 
&nbsp; 
&quot;We so far have nine people who are dead, six females and three males,&quot; said Nurudeen Hamidan, the head of the Asokore Mampong municipal assembly, in the city of Kumasi. 
 
There was no immediate comment from the police in the city, which is 255 kilometres (160 miles) northwest of the capital, Accra. 
&nbsp; 
But Hamidan said three bodies have been identified so far and six people were injured, one of them critical and were receiving treatment in hospital. 
&nbsp; 
The party was organised on Wednesday at a community centre in the Asawase area of Kumasi as the climax to the Eid-ul-Fitr festival, which marks the end of a month of fasting and prayer. 
 
Local member of parliament Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka said carnivals were often held to celebrate the occasion but in the past have been marked by clashes between youths. 
 
Organisers had told police the carnival would end by 9:00 pm (2100 GMT) and a group, thought to number about 300, moved to the community centre, where a fight reportedly broke out, he added. 
&nbsp; 
&quot;In a bid for people to rush out... there was this stampede,&quot; said Muntaka, from President John Dramani Mahama`s National Democratic Congress. 
&nbsp; 
But Hamidan said there were conflicting reports about the cause of the tragedy and a security meeting had been called today afternoon to determine what happened. 
 
&quot;People are saying so many things. Some are saying that there was a lights out and the meter sparked and the sound of the meter made people agitated,&quot; he said. 
&nbsp; 
&quot;Others are saying that they finished the programme, they were leaving and there was a stampede along the way. 
 
&quot;As to what caused the actual stampede the security agencies are working to unravel what happened and we will take it on from there.&quot;&nbsp; 
 
(AFP)

The party was organised on Wednesday at a community centre in the Asawase area of Kumasi as the climax to the Eid-ul-Fitr festival

Nine people were killed in a stampede at a party in central Ghana to mark the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramzan, a public official told reporters today. "We so far have nine people who are dead, six females and three males," said Nurudeen Hamidan, the head of the Asokore Mampong municipal assembly, in the city of Kumasi. There was no immediate comment from the police in the city, which is 255 kilometres (160 miles) northwest of the capital, Accra. But Hamidan said three bodies have been identified so far and six people were injured, one of them critical and were receiving treatment in hospital. The party was organised on Wednesday at a community centre in the Asawase area of Kumasi as the climax to the Eid-ul-Fitr festival, which marks the end of a month of fasting and prayer. Local member of parliament Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka said carnivals were often held to celebrate the occasion but in the past have been marked by clashes between youths. Organisers had told police the carnival would end by 9:00 pm (2100 GMT) and a group, thought to number about 300, moved to the community centre, where a fight reportedly broke out, he added. "In a bid for people to rush out... there was this stampede," said Muntaka, from President John Dramani Mahama`s National Democratic Congress. But Hamidan said there were conflicting reports about the cause of the tragedy and a security meeting had been called today afternoon to determine what happened. "People are saying so many things. Some are saying that there was a lights out and the meter sparked and the sound of the meter made people agitated," he said. "Others are saying that they finished the programme, they were leaving and there was a stampede along the way. "As to what caused the actual stampede the security agencies are working to unravel what happened and we will take it on from there." (AFP)

Nine dead in Eid party stampede in Ghana

An eerie silence pervades the restaurants and shopping malls in Dhaka&#39;s diplomatic quarter, usually teeming with well-heeled urbanites, now standing empty since the killing of 20 hostages at a popular cafe.&nbsp;Five days after the brutal siege at the Holey Artisan Bakery in the Bangladeshi capital, many establishments remain closed, with shaken residents of Gulshan too afraid to venture out. 
 
&quot;Our guest numbers have gone down dramatically so the management took the decision to keep it shut for a while,&quot; said Abdul Mazid, a guard at Meraki, a well-known restaurant in the neighbourhood. 
 
The run-up to Eid celebrations that mark the end of the holy month of Ramzan usually sees shopping malls overflowing with crowds and millions of Dollars changing hands in just a few days.&nbsp;But this year Gulshan DCC market, usually bustling with Eid shoppers ahead of the biggest festival in the Muslim calendar, stood deserted. 
 
At least five gunmen stormed the bakery on Friday evening, sparking an 11-hour stand-off with police that saw victims murdered with machetes, most of them Italian or Japanese.&nbsp;Around the corner from the site of the bloodbath, Thai restaurant Soi 71 and neighbouring Korean diner Suaron, which usually remain lively past midnight, were shuttered on Tuesday. 
 
&quot;Ours is a happening business, it&#39;s hard to believe how quiet it has become over the past few days,&quot; said Mohammad Farhan, manager of the upmarket Butlers Chocolate Cafe, where waiters were standing around. 
 
&quot;It has just turned upside down.&quot; 
 
Britain was among countries urging its citizens to avoid areas frequented by foreigners, such as international hotels, large supermarkets or clubs, while Japanese firm Uniqlo restricted non-urgent travel for employees.&nbsp;As Dhaka residents attempt to regroup, fears are mounting that the attack may herald an escalation of violence in Bangladesh. 
 
Islamist militants have been blamed for a wave of murders of foreigners, religious minorities and secular writers over the past three years.&nbsp;However, Friday&#39;s murders were on a totally different scale. 
 
&quot;I keep thinking about escape routes in our apartment and the building complex... I am too scared to be in my city any more,&quot; Dhaka-based private university researcher Shahana Siddiqui posted on Facebook.&nbsp;The revelation that the attackers were educated, well-off members of society has sparked fears that Islamism has become a fashion not confined to disenfranchised youngsters being radicalised in madrasas. 
 
&quot;Missing young men are potential moving bombs now. They can strike anywhere, any time,&quot; Mushtaq Ahmed, an entrepreneur, posted on social media.&nbsp;At a mourning ceremony for the dead at a heavily secured park in Gulshan on Monday night, some expressed fears that the weekend attack will not be the last. 
 
&quot;What we are seeing today is only the tip of the iceberg,&quot; retired Brigadier General Sakhawat Hossain, a security analyst, told the gathering.&nbsp;&quot;They came to kill and propagate their agenda. The ideology is there among our children.&quot; 
 
(AFP)

The residents of Gulshan are scared to venture out, tourists have been told to avoid the country and restaurants are closed after the attack

An eerie silence pervades the restaurants and shopping malls in Dhaka's diplomatic quarter, usually teeming with well-heeled urbanites, now standing empty since the killing of 20 hostages at a popular cafe. Five days after the brutal siege at the Holey Artisan Bakery in the Bangladeshi capital, many establishments remain closed, with shaken residents of Gulshan too afraid to venture out. "Our guest numbers have gone down dramatically so the management took the decision to keep it shut for a while," said Abdul Mazid, a guard at Meraki, a well-known restaurant in the neighbourhood. The run-up to Eid celebrations that mark the end of the holy month of Ramzan usually sees shopping malls overflowing with crowds and millions of Dollars changing hands in just a few days. But this year Gulshan DCC market, usually bustling with Eid shoppers ahead of the biggest festival in the Muslim calendar, stood deserted. At least five gunmen stormed the bakery on Friday evening, sparking an 11-hour stand-off with police that saw victims murdered with machetes, most of them Italian or Japanese. Around the corner from the site of the bloodbath, Thai restaurant Soi 71 and neighbouring Korean diner Suaron, which usually remain lively past midnight, were shuttered on Tuesday. "Ours is a happening business, it's hard to believe how quiet it has become over the past few days," said Mohammad Farhan, manager of the upmarket Butlers Chocolate Cafe, where waiters were standing around. "It has just turned upside down." Britain was among countries urging its citizens to avoid areas frequented by foreigners, such as international hotels, large supermarkets or clubs, while Japanese firm Uniqlo restricted non-urgent travel for employees. As Dhaka residents attempt to regroup, fears are mounting that the attack may herald an escalation of violence in Bangladesh. Islamist militants have been blamed for a wave of murders of foreigners, religious minorities and secular writers over the past three years. However, Friday's murders were on a totally different scale. "I keep thinking about escape routes in our apartment and the building complex... I am too scared to be in my city any more," Dhaka-based private university researcher Shahana Siddiqui posted on Facebook. The revelation that the attackers were educated, well-off members of society has sparked fears that Islamism has become a fashion not confined to disenfranchised youngsters being radicalised in madrasas. "Missing young men are potential moving bombs now. They can strike anywhere, any time," Mushtaq Ahmed, an entrepreneur, posted on social media. At a mourning ceremony for the dead at a heavily secured park in Gulshan on Monday night, some expressed fears that the weekend attack will not be the last. "What we are seeing today is only the tip of the iceberg," retired Brigadier General Sakhawat Hossain, a security analyst, told the gathering. "They came to kill and propagate their agenda. The ideology is there among our children." (AFP)

Eerie silence envelopes Dhaka's diplomatic quarter, Eid celebrations dampened

The Afghan Taliban today condemned a deadly suicide bombing at Islam`s second holiest site in the Saudi city of Medina, describing it as &quot;an act of enmity and hatred&quot;.&nbsp; 
 
Four people were killed in the bombing outside the Prophet`s Mosque on Monday, the same day as an attack outside a minority shiite mosque in eastern Saudi Arabia, and another near the US consulate in the western city of Jeddah.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;The Islamic Emirate (Taliban) &nbsp;which has been shocked by this gruesome act condemns this incident in the strongest of terms and considers it an act of enmity and hatred towards Islamic rituals,&quot; the militant group said in an emailed statement.&nbsp; 
 
There were no claims of responsibility for the bombings, but the Islamic State group had urged its supporters to carry out attacks during Ramzan. 
 
The Taliban, who were ousted from power by a US-led invasion in late 2001, have themselves been repeatedly blamed by the UN for deliberately targeting civilians in the war-torn country.&nbsp; 
 
As many as 600 civilians were killed and 1,343 were injured in the first three months of 2016, according to a UN report in April, with the Taliban responsible for six out of every 10 casualties.&nbsp; 
 
Monday`s suicide bombing received wide condemnation from across the Muslim world, with Shiite power Iran calling for Muslim unity following the attacks in its Sunni-dominated regional rival. 
 
Afghanistan`s Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah also condemned the attacks in Saudi Arabia in a tweet today, expressing his sympathies to the people and government of Saudi Arabia. 
 
(AFP) 
 
&nbsp;

Four people were killed in the attack outside the Prophet`s Mosque on Monday

The Afghan Taliban today condemned a deadly suicide bombing at Islam`s second holiest site in the Saudi city of Medina, describing it as "an act of enmity and hatred". Four people were killed in the bombing outside the Prophet`s Mosque on Monday, the same day as an attack outside a minority shiite mosque in eastern Saudi Arabia, and another near the US consulate in the western city of Jeddah. "The Islamic Emirate (Taliban) which has been shocked by this gruesome act condemns this incident in the strongest of terms and considers it an act of enmity and hatred towards Islamic rituals," the militant group said in an emailed statement. There were no claims of responsibility for the bombings, but the Islamic State group had urged its supporters to carry out attacks during Ramzan. The Taliban, who were ousted from power by a US-led invasion in late 2001, have themselves been repeatedly blamed by the UN for deliberately targeting civilians in the war-torn country. As many as 600 civilians were killed and 1,343 were injured in the first three months of 2016, according to a UN report in April, with the Taliban responsible for six out of every 10 casualties. Monday`s suicide bombing received wide condemnation from across the Muslim world, with Shiite power Iran calling for Muslim unity following the attacks in its Sunni-dominated regional rival. Afghanistan`s Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah also condemned the attacks in Saudi Arabia in a tweet today, expressing his sympathies to the people and government of Saudi Arabia. (AFP)

Afghan Taliban condemn Medina bombing

A Somali cabinet minister is among the 15 killed in an Islamic extremist attack on a hotel in Somalia&#39;s capital, police said today. 
 
Four attackers also died in the assault which was claimed by al-Shabab, Somalia&#39;s militant rebels who are allied to al-Qaida. 
 
State minister for the Prime Minister&#39;s Office, Buri Hamza, was among those killed, said Capt Mohamed Hussein, a senior Somali police officer. 
 
Hamza died when his hotel room collapsed on Saturday because of the powerful car bomb which extremists used to blast their way into the Nasa-Hablod Hotel. 
 
At least 34 people were injured, according to police and hospital sources. 
 
It is the second attack on a hotel since the beginning of the Muslim holy month of Ramzan in early June. Both attacks have been claimed by al-Shabab. 
 
The attacks have raised concerns about the security of hotels in the seaside capital which has seen numerous attacks by al-Shabab in recent years. 
 
&quot;The trend and lethality of such attacks suggest how vulnerable the security of hotels and the city in general are now,&quot; said Mohamed Sheikh Abdi, a Somali political analyst. 
 
&quot;By carrying out such attacks, al-Shabab aims to portray itself as the stronger and dominant force when it comes to the security of the city,&quot; he said. 
 
&quot;Many residents now shun going to hotels that provide some of the few sources of entertainment available in Mogadishu.&quot; 
 
Mogadishu resident Ahmed Ali said that he has stopped going to hotels because they are &quot;death traps because they are favourite targets for al-Shabab ... Having fun at hotels is good but my safety comes first.&quot;&nbsp; 
 
(PTI)

State minister Buri Hamza died when his hotel room collapsed on Saturday because of a powerful car bomb used by extremists

A Somali cabinet minister is among the 15 killed in an Islamic extremist attack on a hotel in Somalia's capital, police said today. Four attackers also died in the assault which was claimed by al-Shabab, Somalia's militant rebels who are allied to al-Qaida. State minister for the Prime Minister's Office, Buri Hamza, was among those killed, said Capt Mohamed Hussein, a senior Somali police officer. Hamza died when his hotel room collapsed on Saturday because of the powerful car bomb which extremists used to blast their way into the Nasa-Hablod Hotel. At least 34 people were injured, according to police and hospital sources. It is the second attack on a hotel since the beginning of the Muslim holy month of Ramzan in early June. Both attacks have been claimed by al-Shabab. The attacks have raised concerns about the security of hotels in the seaside capital which has seen numerous attacks by al-Shabab in recent years. "The trend and lethality of such attacks suggest how vulnerable the security of hotels and the city in general are now," said Mohamed Sheikh Abdi, a Somali political analyst. "By carrying out such attacks, al-Shabab aims to portray itself as the stronger and dominant force when it comes to the security of the city," he said. "Many residents now shun going to hotels that provide some of the few sources of entertainment available in Mogadishu." Mogadishu resident Ahmed Ali said that he has stopped going to hotels because they are "death traps because they are favourite targets for al-Shabab ... Having fun at hotels is good but my safety comes first." (PTI)

Somali minister among 15 killed in extremist attack on hotel

A&nbsp;Pakistani actor has been banned from hosting a popular Ramzan TV show by the country&#39;s media regulator for allegedly violating its &quot;code of conduct&quot; by promoting controversial religious and sectarian views. 
 
The&nbsp;Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) said it banned Hamza Ali Abbasi from hosting the show after receiving numerous complaints from viewers over the show&#39;s controversial content which it claimed violated the media regulator&#39;s &quot;code of conduct.&quot; 
 
Abbasi surprised the&nbsp;Pakistani audience by speaking against the oppression of the minority, the Ahmadis, on his show Ishq-e-Ramazan. 
 
Abbasi also promised to have open discussions on his show on the country&#39;s controversial blasphemy laws and the government&#39;s decision to declare the minority Qadiani sect as non-Muslims. 
(PTI)

The?country's media regulatory authority banned actor Hamza Ali Abbasi for allegedly voicing sectarian views on the television show

A Pakistani actor has been banned from hosting a popular Ramzan TV show by the country's media regulator for allegedly violating its "code of conduct" by promoting controversial religious and sectarian views. The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) said it banned Hamza Ali Abbasi from hosting the show after receiving numerous complaints from viewers over the show's controversial content which it claimed violated the media regulator's "code of conduct." Abbasi surprised the Pakistani audience by speaking against the oppression of the minority, the Ahmadis, on his show Ishq-e-Ramazan. Abbasi also promised to have open discussions on his show on the country's controversial blasphemy laws and the government's decision to declare the minority Qadiani sect as non-Muslims. (PTI)

Pakistani?actor banned from hosting Ramzan TV show for promoting controversial religious views

Turkish riot police fired rubber bullets and tear gas to break up a rally of about 50 members of the LGBT community in Istanbul on Sunday, an AFP correspondent said. 
 
Several hundred policeman surrounded the city`s main Taksim Square to prevent the demonstration taking place during the Muslim holy month of Ramzan 
(AFP)

Hundreds of policemen surround the area to prevent 50-LGBT members from demonstrating during Ramzan

Turkish riot police fired rubber bullets and tear gas to break up a rally of about 50 members of the LGBT community in Istanbul on Sunday, an AFP correspondent said. Several hundred policeman surrounded the city`s main Taksim Square to prevent the demonstration taking place during the Muslim holy month of Ramzan (AFP)

Riot police fires rubber bullets and tear gas at LGBT rally in Istanbul

ramzan

Ramzan, News on Ramzan, stories on Ramzan, articles on Ramzan, Ramzan stories at Wion, Ramzan news, Ramzan latest news