The ground-breaking ceremony commencing the construction of Nepal-Bharat Maitri Polytechnic was performed at the Nepal city of Hetauda on Tuesday, the Indian embassy in Kathmandu said.

The Polytechnic is being built with an Indian government grant of Rs 38.53 crore under the India-Nepal development partnership.

The state-of-the-art infrastructure project is projected to be completed within two years, the embassy said in a statement.

The ground-breaking ceremony was performed by Chief Minister of Province no. 3 Dormani Paudel in the presence of Indian Charge d' Affaires Ajar Kumar. Yubraj Dulal, Minister for Social Development, Province-3; Kailash Dungel, Minister of Financial Affairs of Province-3, Pushpa Raman Wagle, Member-Secretary of Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT) and over 600 residents and students from Hetauda also took part in the ceremony.

The polytechnic is being built over 32 acres land and will have a total built-up area of 19,200 square meters.

The facility will include an administrative block, academic block, auditorium, library, workshop, multipurpose hall, separate hostels for boys and girls, principal and staff residences and amenities for sports and communities.

The release stated that the ceremony for the construction of the project is yet another testimony of friendly relations between India and Nepal, and reflects New Delhi's commitment to work with Kathmandu to complement efforts of Government of Nepal in strengthening infrastructure in the vocational and skill development sector in the country.

The ground-breaking ceremony commencing the construction of Nepal-Bharat Maitri Polytechnic was performed at the Nepal city of Hetauda on Tuesday, the Indian embassy in Kathmandu said.

The ground-breaking ceremony commencing the construction of Nepal-Bharat Maitri Polytechnic was performed at the Nepal city of Hetauda on Tuesday, the Indian embassy in Kathmandu said. The Polytechnic is being built with an Indian government grant of Rs 38.53 crore under the India-Nepal development partnership. The state-of-the-art infrastructure project is projected to be completed within two years, the embassy said in a statement. The ground-breaking ceremony was performed by Chief Minister of Province no. 3 Dormani Paudel in the presence of Indian Charge d' Affaires Ajar Kumar. Yubraj Dulal, Minister for Social Development, Province-3; Kailash Dungel, Minister of Financial Affairs of Province-3, Pushpa Raman Wagle, Member-Secretary of Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT) and over 600 residents and students from Hetauda also took part in the ceremony. The polytechnic is being built over 32 acres land and will have a total built-up area of 19,200 square meters. The facility will include an administrative block, academic block, auditorium, library, workshop, multipurpose hall, separate hostels for boys and girls, principal and staff residences and amenities for sports and communities. The release stated that the ceremony for the construction of the project is yet another testimony of friendly relations between India and Nepal, and reflects New Delhi's commitment to work with Kathmandu to complement efforts of Government of Nepal in strengthening infrastructure in the vocational and skill development sector in the country.

Commencement of construction of Nepal-Bharat Maitri Polytechnic

India and Bangladesh will jointly produce two separate films based on Bangladesh's Liberation War and on the country's founding father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Information and Broadcasting Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/javadekar-urges-kejriwal-to-find-solutions-to-mitigate-pollution-and-stop-blame-game-259508">Prakash Javadekar</a> said on Tuesday.

Speaking to media after meeting his Bangladeshi counterpart Hasan Mahmud in Dhaka, Javadekar said, "We are planning and progressed much to jointly produce two films, one on the story of the liberation of Bangladesh and (the other) on Bangabandhu."

The two leaders also discussed the impact of DD India, which is now telecast in Bangladesh, as well as Bangla TV, which now airs across India.

Javadekar said he has invited Mahmud to India to take the cooperation in this regard forward.

Javadekar is on a two-day visit to Bangladesh to attend the 15th meeting of the Governing Council of South Asia Cooperative Environment Programme (SACEP).

India and Bangladesh will jointly produce two separate films based on Bangladesh's Liberation War and on the country's founding father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar said on Tuesday.

India and Bangladesh will jointly produce two separate films based on Bangladesh's Liberation War and on the country's founding father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar said on Tuesday. Speaking to media after meeting his Bangladeshi counterpart Hasan Mahmud in Dhaka, Javadekar said, "We are planning and progressed much to jointly produce two films, one on the story of the liberation of Bangladesh and (the other) on Bangabandhu." The two leaders also discussed the impact of DD India, which is now telecast in Bangladesh, as well as Bangla TV, which now airs across India. Javadekar said he has invited Mahmud to India to take the cooperation in this regard forward. Javadekar is on a two-day visit to Bangladesh to attend the 15th meeting of the Governing Council of South Asia Cooperative Environment Programme (SACEP).

India, Bangladesh to jointly produce film on Bangabandhu: Prakash Javadekar

Pakistan's opposition rejected Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government's proposal for a judicial commission to probe the alleged rigging in the July 2018 election.

"We reject every proposal for the formation of a commission and maintain our demand for fresh elections. There can be no change in the matter," JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-azadi-march-opposition-calls-for-imran-khans-resignation-260096">anti-government protest</a> entered its fifth day here.

"Now it's up to you. The sooner you decide on this, the sooner we can see this matter resolved. If you think this crowd should disperse, then go ahead and give the call. Neither will you remain in a fix and neither will we, then, have any lack of clarity on the matter," Rehman said.

Meanwhile, according to DAWN, the second round of talks between the government negotiating team and the Opposition's Rehbar Committee failed to break the ongoing deadlock between the two sides.

Defence Minister Pervez Khattak said the government is trying to find a middle ground with the opposition to break the ongoing deadlock.

The opposition has demanded the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-imran-khan-adamant-on-staying-in-power-260219"> resignation of Imran Khan</a> and calling of an election immediately.

Khan has said that he was ready to accept all "valid" demands of the Azadi March protesters, except their call for his resignation.

According to the local media, the Pakistan premier made the statement in a meeting led by Khattak to negotiate with the opposition parties taking part in the 'Azadi March', reported the Express Tribune.

"The government is ready to accept all valid demands except the demand for resignation," said Khan.

Khan also stated that his negotiation team will respond positively if the opposition displays seriousness towards reaching a consensus to end the protest march.

The purported aim of the march is to oust Khan, who has been at the helm for just over a year.

According to Fazlur Rehman aka Maulana Diesel, the march has been called to "protect the Constitution, democracy and Pakistan".

Earlier, Khan made it clear that he will not succumb to pressure from the opposition and not resign from his post.

The anti-government protest is likely to be one of the biggest in the country, surpassing the numbers of the 2014 'dharna' held against the then Pakistani government led by Nawaz Sharif.

Pakistan's opposition rejected Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government's proposal for a judicial commission to probe the alleged rigging in the July 2018 election.

Pakistan's opposition rejected Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government's proposal for a judicial commission to probe the alleged rigging in the July 2018 election. "We reject every proposal for the formation of a commission and maintain our demand for fresh elections. There can be no change in the matter," JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said as the anti-government protest entered its fifth day here. "Now it's up to you. The sooner you decide on this, the sooner we can see this matter resolved. If you think this crowd should disperse, then go ahead and give the call. Neither will you remain in a fix and neither will we, then, have any lack of clarity on the matter," Rehman said. Meanwhile, according to DAWN, the second round of talks between the government negotiating team and the Opposition's Rehbar Committee failed to break the ongoing deadlock between the two sides. Defence Minister Pervez Khattak said the government is trying to find a middle ground with the opposition to break the ongoing deadlock. The opposition has demanded the resignation of Imran Khan and calling of an election immediately. Khan has said that he was ready to accept all "valid" demands of the Azadi March protesters, except their call for his resignation. According to the local media, the Pakistan premier made the statement in a meeting led by Khattak to negotiate with the opposition parties taking part in the 'Azadi March', reported the Express Tribune. "The government is ready to accept all valid demands except the demand for resignation," said Khan. Khan also stated that his negotiation team will respond positively if the opposition displays seriousness towards reaching a consensus to end the protest march. The purported aim of the march is to oust Khan, who has been at the helm for just over a year. According to Fazlur Rehman aka Maulana Diesel, the march has been called to "protect the Constitution, democracy and Pakistan". Earlier, Khan made it clear that he will not succumb to pressure from the opposition and not resign from his post. The anti-government protest is likely to be one of the biggest in the country, surpassing the numbers of the 2014 'dharna' held against the then Pakistani government led by Nawaz Sharif.

Pakistan: Opposition rejects government proposal to probe 2018 election results

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday said that he was ready to accept all "valid" demands of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/azadi-march-fazlur-rehman-gives-imran-khan-2-day-ultimatum-to-resign-259415">Azadi March protesters</a>, led by firebrand cleric Maulana Fazlur Rehman, except their call for his resignation. 
 
According to the local media, the Pakistan premier made the statement in a meeting led by Defence Minister Pervez Khattak to negotiate with the opposition parties taking part in the 'Azadi March', reported the Express Tribune. 
 
"The government is ready to accept all valid demands except the demand for resignation," said Khan. 
 
Khan also stated that his negotiation team will respond positively if the opposition displays seriousness towards reaching a consensus to end the protest march. 
 
This comes a day after Cleric cum politician Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief said, "We have a Plan B, a Plan C. This is only Plan A. Your jails will fall short of space. We will shut down the entire country as well and continue our war." 
 
"We have decided not to go to any court or election commission," he said. "Only a parliamentary committee will decide about rigging," he added. 
 
The purported aim of the march is to oust Khan, who has been at the helm for just over a year. 
 
According to Fazlur Rehman aka Maulana Diesel, the march has been called to "protect the Constitution, democracy and Pakistan". 
 
Earlier, Khan made it clear that he will not succumb to pressure from the opposition and not resign from his post. 
 
The anti-government protest is likely to be one of the biggest in the country, surpassing the numbers of the 2014 'dharna' held against the then Pakistani government led by Nawaz Sharif.

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday said that he was ready to accept all "valid" demands of the Azadi March protesters, led by firebrand cleric Maulana Fazlur Rehman, except their call for his resignation.

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday said that he was ready to accept all "valid" demands of the Azadi March protesters, led by firebrand cleric Maulana Fazlur Rehman, except their call for his resignation. According to the local media, the Pakistan premier made the statement in a meeting led by Defence Minister Pervez Khattak to negotiate with the opposition parties taking part in the 'Azadi March', reported the Express Tribune. "The government is ready to accept all valid demands except the demand for resignation," said Khan. Khan also stated that his negotiation team will respond positively if the opposition displays seriousness towards reaching a consensus to end the protest march. This comes a day after Cleric cum politician Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief said, "We have a Plan B, a Plan C. This is only Plan A. Your jails will fall short of space. We will shut down the entire country as well and continue our war." "We have decided not to go to any court or election commission," he said. "Only a parliamentary committee will decide about rigging," he added. The purported aim of the march is to oust Khan, who has been at the helm for just over a year. According to Fazlur Rehman aka Maulana Diesel, the march has been called to "protect the Constitution, democracy and Pakistan". Earlier, Khan made it clear that he will not succumb to pressure from the opposition and not resign from his post. The anti-government protest is likely to be one of the biggest in the country, surpassing the numbers of the 2014 'dharna' held against the then Pakistani government led by Nawaz Sharif.

Imran Khan refuses to resign amid mass protests

Afghanistan has objected to the summoning of its charge d'affaires by Pakistan's Foreign Ministry over the harassment claims made by Pakistani diplomats working in the country's embassy in Kabul. 
 
A statement by Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday stated that the country would "seriously investigate" the harassment claims, and provided assurance that it is committed to ensuring the safety of Pakistani diplomats. 
 
"Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan expresses its severe objection and deepest concern over the summoning of the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Islamabad by Pakistan's Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI) and the misconduct of the entity's personnel, and deems this action in clear contradiction with diplomatic norms and principles," the statement read. 
 
"The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan states that the Government of Afghanistan shall seriously investigate this claim and provides assurance that the Government of Afghanistan is committed to providing safety to the diplomats of Pakistan as well as other diplomats in the country," it added. 
 
The ministry called on the Pakistani government to align its diplomatic relations with Afghanistan in compliance with international conventions and accepted diplomatic norms. 
The matter pertains to Pakistan Foreign officer summoning Afghan envoy on Sunday to convey its concerns over the safety and security of its diplomatic personnel. The country has also suspended its consular services indefinitely owing to security concerns after the harassment claims. 
 
"The Afghan Cd'A was informed that the Officers and Staff of the Embassy of Pakistan were being harassed over the past two days. They were obstructed on the road and the Embassy vehicles were also hit by motorcycles while going towards the Embassy," the statement by Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs read, adding that he has been asked to relay Pakistan's concerns to Afghan authorities and to urge them "to immediately investigate these security violations and harassment incidents".

Afghanistan has objected to the summoning of its charge d'affaires by Pakistan's Foreign Ministry over the harassment claims made by Pakistani diplomats working in the country's embassy in Kabul.

Afghanistan has objected to the summoning of its charge d'affaires by Pakistan's Foreign Ministry over the harassment claims made by Pakistani diplomats working in the country's embassy in Kabul. A statement by Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday stated that the country would "seriously investigate" the harassment claims, and provided assurance that it is committed to ensuring the safety of Pakistani diplomats. "Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan expresses its severe objection and deepest concern over the summoning of the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Islamabad by Pakistan's Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI) and the misconduct of the entity's personnel, and deems this action in clear contradiction with diplomatic norms and principles," the statement read. "The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan states that the Government of Afghanistan shall seriously investigate this claim and provides assurance that the Government of Afghanistan is committed to providing safety to the diplomats of Pakistan as well as other diplomats in the country," it added. The ministry called on the Pakistani government to align its diplomatic relations with Afghanistan in compliance with international conventions and accepted diplomatic norms. The matter pertains to Pakistan Foreign officer summoning Afghan envoy on Sunday to convey its concerns over the safety and security of its diplomatic personnel. The country has also suspended its consular services indefinitely owing to security concerns after the harassment claims. "The Afghan Cd'A was informed that the Officers and Staff of the Embassy of Pakistan were being harassed over the past two days. They were obstructed on the road and the Embassy vehicles were also hit by motorcycles while going towards the Embassy," the statement by Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs read, adding that he has been asked to relay Pakistan's concerns to Afghan authorities and to urge them "to immediately investigate these security violations and harassment incidents".

Afghanistan objects to summoning of envoy by Pakistan over harassment claims

At least five Taliban terrorists were killed by Afghan police in an operation launched in Shena Qala village of Barak-e-Barak district in Afghanistan.

Five Taliban members were killed in an operation carried by special police forces in central Logar province on Monday, Tolo News reported.

The police officials also seized weapons during the operation in Barak-e-Barak.

So far, the Taliban has not commented on the Afghan police operation.

Meanwhile, Afghan security forces found two Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) in the Jaghatu district of Ghazni province and safely detonated them.

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At least five Taliban terrorists were killed by Afghan police in an operation launched in Shena Qala village of Barak-e-Barak district in Afghanistan. Five Taliban members were killed in an operation carried by special police forces in central Logar province on Monday, Tolo News reported.

At least five Taliban terrorists were killed by Afghan police in an operation launched in Shena Qala village of Barak-e-Barak district in Afghanistan. Five Taliban members were killed in an operation carried by special police forces in central Logar province on Monday, Tolo News reported. The police officials also seized weapons during the operation in Barak-e-Barak. So far, the Taliban has not commented on the Afghan police operation. Meanwhile, Afghan security forces found two Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) in the Jaghatu district of Ghazni province and safely detonated them.

Five Taliban terrorists killed in Afghanistan's Logar province

A roadside mine blast in Afghanistan's northern Baghlan province on Monday killed at least eight people, including four children. 
 
According to police, "Four children, two women and two men were killed and six other civilians,&nbsp;including children,&nbsp;were wounded," as quoted by Tolo News. 
Soon after the blast, the victims were taken to a local hospital. 
 
The blast occurred at the Dand-e-Shahabuddin,&nbsp;the capital area of Baghlan province, officials at the provincial police headquarters confirmed. 
 
No group has so&nbsp;far claimed responsibility for the blast.

A roadside mine blast in Afghanistan's northern Baghlan province on Monday killed at least eight people, including four children. According to police, "Four children, two women and two men were killed and six other civilians, including children, were wounded," as quoted by Tolo News.

A roadside mine blast in Afghanistan's northern Baghlan province on Monday killed at least eight people, including four children. According to police, "Four children, two women and two men were killed and six other civilians, including children, were wounded," as quoted by Tolo News. Soon after the blast, the victims were taken to a local hospital. The blast occurred at the Dand-e-Shahabuddin, the capital area of Baghlan province, officials at the provincial police headquarters confirmed. No group has so far claimed responsibility for the blast.

Roadside mine blast in northern Afghanistan kills eight

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepalese-presidential-office-removes-governors-across-all-seven-provinces-259714">Nepalese government</a> will hold a Cabinet meeting on Monday to likely appoint new governors for all seven provinces in the country, a government source, requesting anonymity, said on Sunday, hours after President Bidhya Devi Bhandari relieved previous governors from their posts on the recommendation of the government. 
 
The governors relieved from the post had been appointed by former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba-led government and assumed office back in January 2018. 
 
Those who were relieved from the posts are Govinda Bahadur Tumbahang, Governor of Province 1, Ratneshworlal Kayastha of Province 2, Anuradha Koirala of Province 3, Baburam Kunwar of Gandaki Province, Umakanta Jha of Province 5, Durgakeshar Khanal of Karnali Province and Mohanraj Malla of Province 7. 
 
These governors were relieved in accordance with the constitutional provisions at the recommendation of the Council of Ministers, the President's office said in a statement earlier today.

The Nepalese government will hold a Cabinet meeting on Monday to likely appoint new governors for all seven provinces in the country, a government source, requesting anonymity, said on Sunday, hours after President Bidhya Devi Bhandari relieved previous governors from their posts on the recommendation of the government.

The Nepalese government will hold a Cabinet meeting on Monday to likely appoint new governors for all seven provinces in the country, a government source, requesting anonymity, said on Sunday, hours after President Bidhya Devi Bhandari relieved previous governors from their posts on the recommendation of the government. The governors relieved from the post had been appointed by former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba-led government and assumed office back in January 2018. Those who were relieved from the posts are Govinda Bahadur Tumbahang, Governor of Province 1, Ratneshworlal Kayastha of Province 2, Anuradha Koirala of Province 3, Baburam Kunwar of Gandaki Province, Umakanta Jha of Province 5, Durgakeshar Khanal of Karnali Province and Mohanraj Malla of Province 7. These governors were relieved in accordance with the constitutional provisions at the recommendation of the Council of Ministers, the President's office said in a statement earlier today.

Nepal likely to appoint new governors at cabinet meeting on November 4

Indian Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri on Friday inaugurated a school building constructed with India's assistance in Nepal's western district of Darchula. 
 
The new building of Shree Mahendra Model Higher Secondary School, which is located in Khalanga municipality, has been built with Indian government's grant of NPR 30 million.

The two-storey building comprises of 13 classroom, a meeting hall, and separate sanitation facilities for boys and girls on both the floors, as per a release by Indian Embassy in Kathmandu. 
 
Established in 1960, Shree Mahendra Model Higher Secondary School is an educational institution of repute located at Khalanga Village Development Committee (VDC) in Darchula District of Sudurpashchim Pradesh province. The school is affiliated to National Examinations Board (NEB) and has over 2000 students, about 50 per cent&nbsp;of whom are girls. 
 
The newly built infrastructure is expected to boost the learning environment of students. The Indian government is happy to be associated with the project which complements the effort of the Nepalese government in augmenting infrastructure in the field of education, the release read. 
 
Nepal's Deputy Prime Minister Upendra Yadav, Member of Parliament from Darchula district Dilendra Prasad Badu, Mayor of Mahakali Municipality Hansraj Bhatt, Chief of District Coordination Committee, Darchula Karbir Singh Karki, along with the community leaders were present at the inaugural ceremony.

Indian Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri on Friday inaugurated a school building constructed with India's assistance in Nepal's western district of Darchula.

Indian Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri on Friday inaugurated a school building constructed with India's assistance in Nepal's western district of Darchula. The new building of Shree Mahendra Model Higher Secondary School, which is located in Khalanga municipality, has been built with Indian government's grant of NPR 30 million. The two-storey building comprises of 13 classroom, a meeting hall, and separate sanitation facilities for boys and girls on both the floors, as per a release by Indian Embassy in Kathmandu. Established in 1960, Shree Mahendra Model Higher Secondary School is an educational institution of repute located at Khalanga Village Development Committee (VDC) in Darchula District of Sudurpashchim Pradesh province. The school is affiliated to National Examinations Board (NEB) and has over 2000 students, about 50 per cent of whom are girls. The newly built infrastructure is expected to boost the learning environment of students. The Indian government is happy to be associated with the project which complements the effort of the Nepalese government in augmenting infrastructure in the field of education, the release read. Nepal's Deputy Prime Minister Upendra Yadav, Member of Parliament from Darchula district Dilendra Prasad Badu, Mayor of Mahakali Municipality Hansraj Bhatt, Chief of District Coordination Committee, Darchula Karbir Singh Karki, along with the community leaders were present at the inaugural ceremony.

Nepal: School built with India's assistance inaugurated

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) check-in system went down after a fault developed in international submarine cables that connect the country.

In order to run the operations, the national flag carrier switched to a manual system. That could result in a delay in flights, reported ARY News.

Separately, PIA, in a tweet, said: "PTCL (Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited) network is down due to damage to their underground cables causing an outage of PIA Check-In systems across the country. We're moving to backup systems and manual processes. We regret the inconvenience caused to our passengers due to the resulting delays."

Internet service across the country was impacted on Tuesday.

According to the reports, two submarines cables have gone offline disrupting internet in Pakistan. 
 
"IMEWE and SEAMEWE 4, that carry almost 50 per cent of Pakistan's internet traffic, went offline due to a fault at a location that's yet not determined," the report said.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) check-in system went down after a fault developed in international submarine cables that connect the country. In order to run the operations, the national flag carrier switched to a manual system.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) check-in system went down after a fault developed in international submarine cables that connect the country. In order to run the operations, the national flag carrier switched to a manual system. That could result in a delay in flights, reported ARY News. Separately, PIA, in a tweet, said: "PTCL (Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited) network is down due to damage to their underground cables causing an outage of PIA Check-In systems across the country. We're moving to backup systems and manual processes. We regret the inconvenience caused to our passengers due to the resulting delays." Internet service across the country was impacted on Tuesday. According to the reports, two submarines cables have gone offline disrupting internet in Pakistan. "IMEWE and SEAMEWE 4, that carry almost 50 per cent of Pakistan's internet traffic, went offline due to a fault at a location that's yet not determined," the report said.

Pakistan International Airlines system down after submarine cable fault

All concerned parties are looking at their respective national interests, and thus, the situation in West Asia is turning from bad to worse, says Retired Major General SB Asthana

Video Opinion: Maintaining stability in West Asia

Hawa Alam Nuristani, chief of Independent Election Commission (IEC) of Afghanistan, on Sunday notified that the result of the Afghan Presidential election will be announced on November 14.

Earlier, the results of the election were scheduled to be announced on October 19, Tolo News reported.

According to the IEC, the announcement of the results was delayed for some technical issues and few necessary actions needed to maintain transparency.

Earlier, IEC commissioner Awrangzeb on Saturday said that there were some internal issued that are faced by the IEC and settled meetings are underway to settle the issue.

Over 1.9 million biometric votes were used in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghans-vote-in-presidential-election-amid-deadly-violence-252614">presidential elections</a> held on September 28.&nbsp;

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Hawa Alam Nuristani, chief of Independent Election Commission (IEC) of Afghanistan, on Sunday notified that the result of the Afghan Presidential election will be announced on November 14.

Hawa Alam Nuristani, chief of Independent Election Commission (IEC) of Afghanistan, on Sunday notified that the result of the Afghan Presidential election will be announced on November 14. Earlier, the results of the election were scheduled to be announced on October 19, Tolo News reported. According to the IEC, the announcement of the results was delayed for some technical issues and few necessary actions needed to maintain transparency. Earlier, IEC commissioner Awrangzeb on Saturday said that there were some internal issued that are faced by the IEC and settled meetings are underway to settle the issue. Over 1.9 million biometric votes were used in the presidential elections held on September 28.

Afghanistan presidential poll result to announced on November 14

Highlighting Pakistan's hypocrisy, Voice of Karachi (VoK) Chairman Nadeem Nusrat has asked Pakistan to address the discrimination faced by religious minorities and non-Punjabi ethnic groups instead of crying foul over the Kashmir issue. 
 
In a statement, Nusrat added that while the world is discussing the situation in Kashmir, it is essential to not to ignore the plight of religious minorities and non-Punjabi ethnic groups who are facing ever-growing human rights abuses in Pakistan by its Punjabi-dominated security forces. 
 
Terming Pakistan's decision to observe October 27 as a 'Black Day' in solidarity with Kashmiri people as "sheer hypocrisy", the VoK chairman said that Pakistan claims itself to be the leader of the Muslim world but opts to keep quiet on the sufferings of Muslims in China, Yemen, Syria and Myanmar. This 'selective' demonstration of the so-called 'Muslim brotherhood' speaks volumes about the true nature of Pakistan's tall claims. 
 
Nusrat asserted that the continued hostilities and war-like situation against India suit Pakistan's military establishment since it allows it to continue to spend a huge chunk of the country's budget on defence expenditures. 
 
"Pakistan is concerned about India's decision to change the constitutional status of Kashmir whereas its own constitution is practically suspended, and the military is practically running all the affairs in the shadows of sham democracy. All the fundamental constitutional freedoms - assembly, speech, press and religion- are barred and human rights abuses are steadily rising," he continued. 
 
The Mohajir leader further stated that Pakistan laments the deployment of Indian troops in Kashmir but forgets that it has deployed hundreds of thousands of military and paramilitary troops in Karachi, Balochistan, Gilgit Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to suppress the genuine demands of the people of these areas. 
 
Nadeem Nusrat urged Pakistani authorities to pay serious attention to the comments of the acting US Assistant Secretary Alice Wells who pointed out in a recent US&nbsp;Congressional hearing on South Asia that the terror groups operating from Pakistani soil have been playing a major role in the unrest in Kashmir valley. She also urged the Pakistani government to take firm action against these militant groups who are recruiting people in the name of jihad in Kashmir and Afghanistan. 
 
Nadeem Nusrat said that the successive US&nbsp;administrations, as well as the rest of the world community, have repeatedly demanded Pakistan to eliminate terror sanctuaries from its soil, but many groups continue to enjoy visible impunity in Pakistan despite such pleas. 
 
The Mohair leader further said that the terror financing watchdog FATF has also repeatedly warned Pakistan that it could be added to its 'blacklist ' if it fails to stop terror financing and support for terrorist groups. 
 
Pakistani authorities should take this warning seriously as these terror groups pose the most serious threat to Pakistan's international standing, its integrity, and security. Those elements within the Pakistani establishment who are trying to shield these elements are seriously jeopardising the future of Pakistan. 
 
Nusrat added that it is hard for Pakistan to question media censorship in Kashmir when the news media in Pakistan are barred from reporting the facts and the dissident voices are being silenced or forced to flee the country. The situation has come to a point where even the proponents of the military establishment are admitting that Pakistan has become a 'police state'. 
 
"If Pakistan is sincere with Kashmiris, it must first stop killing its non-Punjabi citizens and suppressing their genuine demand for rights. Without putting an end to ongoing suppression of its own citizens will make Pakistan's stance on Kashmir sheer hypocrisy and political expediency," the Voice of Karachi chairman concluded.

Highlighting Pakistan's hypocrisy, Voice of Karachi (VoK) Chairman Nadeem Nusrat has asked Pakistan to address the discrimination faced by religious minorities and non-Punjabi ethnic groups instead of crying foul over the Kashmir issue.

Highlighting Pakistan's hypocrisy, Voice of Karachi (VoK) Chairman Nadeem Nusrat has asked Pakistan to address the discrimination faced by religious minorities and non-Punjabi ethnic groups instead of crying foul over the Kashmir issue. In a statement, Nusrat added that while the world is discussing the situation in Kashmir, it is essential to not to ignore the plight of religious minorities and non-Punjabi ethnic groups who are facing ever-growing human rights abuses in Pakistan by its Punjabi-dominated security forces. Terming Pakistan's decision to observe October 27 as a 'Black Day' in solidarity with Kashmiri people as "sheer hypocrisy", the VoK chairman said that Pakistan claims itself to be the leader of the Muslim world but opts to keep quiet on the sufferings of Muslims in China, Yemen, Syria and Myanmar. This 'selective' demonstration of the so-called 'Muslim brotherhood' speaks volumes about the true nature of Pakistan's tall claims. Nusrat asserted that the continued hostilities and war-like situation against India suit Pakistan's military establishment since it allows it to continue to spend a huge chunk of the country's budget on defence expenditures. "Pakistan is concerned about India's decision to change the constitutional status of Kashmir whereas its own constitution is practically suspended, and the military is practically running all the affairs in the shadows of sham democracy. All the fundamental constitutional freedoms - assembly, speech, press and religion- are barred and human rights abuses are steadily rising," he continued. The Mohajir leader further stated that Pakistan laments the deployment of Indian troops in Kashmir but forgets that it has deployed hundreds of thousands of military and paramilitary troops in Karachi, Balochistan, Gilgit Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to suppress the genuine demands of the people of these areas. Nadeem Nusrat urged Pakistani authorities to pay serious attention to the comments of the acting US Assistant Secretary Alice Wells who pointed out in a recent US Congressional hearing on South Asia that the terror groups operating from Pakistani soil have been playing a major role in the unrest in Kashmir valley. She also urged the Pakistani government to take firm action against these militant groups who are recruiting people in the name of jihad in Kashmir and Afghanistan. Nadeem Nusrat said that the successive US administrations, as well as the rest of the world community, have repeatedly demanded Pakistan to eliminate terror sanctuaries from its soil, but many groups continue to enjoy visible impunity in Pakistan despite such pleas. The Mohair leader further said that the terror financing watchdog FATF has also repeatedly warned Pakistan that it could be added to its 'blacklist ' if it fails to stop terror financing and support for terrorist groups. Pakistani authorities should take this warning seriously as these terror groups pose the most serious threat to Pakistan's international standing, its integrity, and security. Those elements within the Pakistani establishment who are trying to shield these elements are seriously jeopardising the future of Pakistan. Nusrat added that it is hard for Pakistan to question media censorship in Kashmir when the news media in Pakistan are barred from reporting the facts and the dissident voices are being silenced or forced to flee the country. The situation has come to a point where even the proponents of the military establishment are admitting that Pakistan has become a 'police state'. "If Pakistan is sincere with Kashmiris, it must first stop killing its non-Punjabi citizens and suppressing their genuine demand for rights. Without putting an end to ongoing suppression of its own citizens will make Pakistan's stance on Kashmir sheer hypocrisy and political expediency," the Voice of Karachi chairman concluded.

Voice of Karachi chairman points out Pakistan hypocrisy over Kashmir issue

Shipping firms in Pakistan have accused authorities in the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces of forcibly seizing their containers for using them to block the entry of demonstrators to capital Islamabad ahead of the 'Azadi March'. 
 
"Over the last three days, police have forcibly taken possession of more than 3,000 containers in different parts of the country," Hakimullah Khan, president of the Containers Association in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa told Anadolu Agency. 
 
Opposition parties in Pakistan have announced a five-day anti-government protest named 'Azadi March' from October 27. The protests will begin from various parts of the country and converge in Islamabad on October 31. 
 
Hakimullah Khan has claimed that the owners of the seized containers have faced huge financial loses as a result of the authorities' actions. 
On the other hand, Islamabad's deputy commissioner Hamza Shafqaat has said that the containers have not been seized but hired from their owners for which they shall be duly paid. 
 
"We have not taken a single container by force," said Hamza Shafqaat, Islamabad's deputy commissioner. "We have hired all containers from the owners and we will pay for them," he added. 
 
The Azadi March has been announced by Jamiat Ulema-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Fazlur Rehman in a bid to topple the government, which Rehman believes came to power through "fake elections". The Pakistan government has decided to let the march proceed as long as parameters laid out by courts for lawful protest are not breached.

Shipping firms in Pakistan have accused authorities in the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces of forcibly seizing their containers for using them to block the entry of demonstrators to capital Islamabad ahead of the 'Azadi March'.

Shipping firms in Pakistan have accused authorities in the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces of forcibly seizing their containers for using them to block the entry of demonstrators to capital Islamabad ahead of the 'Azadi March'. "Over the last three days, police have forcibly taken possession of more than 3,000 containers in different parts of the country," Hakimullah Khan, president of the Containers Association in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa told Anadolu Agency. Opposition parties in Pakistan have announced a five-day anti-government protest named 'Azadi March' from October 27. The protests will begin from various parts of the country and converge in Islamabad on October 31. Hakimullah Khan has claimed that the owners of the seized containers have faced huge financial loses as a result of the authorities' actions. On the other hand, Islamabad's deputy commissioner Hamza Shafqaat has said that the containers have not been seized but hired from their owners for which they shall be duly paid. "We have not taken a single container by force," said Hamza Shafqaat, Islamabad's deputy commissioner. "We have hired all containers from the owners and we will pay for them," he added. The Azadi March has been announced by Jamiat Ulema-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Fazlur Rehman in a bid to topple the government, which Rehman believes came to power through "fake elections". The Pakistan government has decided to let the march proceed as long as parameters laid out by courts for lawful protest are not breached.

Pakistani shipping firms accuse government of seizing containers to block roads ahead of 'Azaadi March'

It has already been over four decades that Buddhi Ram Prajapati has been in the pottery business which he inherited from his forefathers.

Prajapati never thought of changing his profession, until now. The clay he used for&nbsp;pottery is running out.

"We use to bring the clay from Jagati (Bhaktapur) where we use to get it abundantly but now it is coming to an end as more houses are being built over. Now we are bringing the clay from some other place. Sometimes we bring it from Harishiddhi (Lalitpur) and sometimes from Sankhu (Kathmandu), wherever the clay is available I have to buy it from there," Buddhi Ram Prajapati told ANI while making his pottery's.

Price of a vehicle loaded with clays ranges from NPR 700 - 10,000 per vehicle for a trip.

"The previous place (Jagati) from where we use to bring on the clay is numbered to be best, but with clay from the new place; we cannot make some big items. Quality of clay from the previously brought places was much fertile and there was less chance of breaking of the items but the items made from the new clays breaks quite often," Prajapati complained.

According to him, clay from newer places has a high composition of sand which decreases the quality of pottery items.

Potters have to go to farther distance in search of clay which consumes more time and additional expenses, consequently plummeting the price of pottery items.

Potters usually get a profit of NPR 2 on a "Pala", traditional earthen lamp and NPR 8 from the sale of a "Matka", a cup made of clay which is meant for single use only. But the price goes high if they use high-quality black clay.

In order to maintain the price as well as the quality of products along with continuing these inherited ancestral businesses, Prajapati said he is thinking of purchasing land with fine quality clay.

"We have been searching for places with clay that fits us or else buying land where we can get the required clay abundantly, we are thinking of it," Buddhi Ram Prajapati said amid the confusion as his business lingers in the uncertainty.

The Pottery Square here attracts a large number of tourists as well as buyers of the pottery items which are found in a comparatively lower price than in the main market.

Prajapati clan which is the oldest residing family of this particular square in Bhaktapur has been preserving and promoting the pottery business from ancient time. Though their business is under threat, they are determined not to leave the business at any cost.

"If there's no clay, there comes situation none other than quitting the business but I won't leave my profession till the clay exists there," Buddhi Ram Prajapati said.

It has already been over four decades that Buddhi Ram Prajapati has been in the pottery business which he inherited from his forefathers. Prajapati never thought of changing his profession, until now.

It has already been over four decades that Buddhi Ram Prajapati has been in the pottery business which he inherited from his forefathers. Prajapati never thought of changing his profession, until now. The clay he used for pottery is running out. "We use to bring the clay from Jagati (Bhaktapur) where we use to get it abundantly but now it is coming to an end as more houses are being built over. Now we are bringing the clay from some other place. Sometimes we bring it from Harishiddhi (Lalitpur) and sometimes from Sankhu (Kathmandu), wherever the clay is available I have to buy it from there," Buddhi Ram Prajapati told ANI while making his pottery's. Price of a vehicle loaded with clays ranges from NPR 700 - 10,000 per vehicle for a trip. "The previous place (Jagati) from where we use to bring on the clay is numbered to be best, but with clay from the new place; we cannot make some big items. Quality of clay from the previously brought places was much fertile and there was less chance of breaking of the items but the items made from the new clays breaks quite often," Prajapati complained. According to him, clay from newer places has a high composition of sand which decreases the quality of pottery items. Potters have to go to farther distance in search of clay which consumes more time and additional expenses, consequently plummeting the price of pottery items. Potters usually get a profit of NPR 2 on a "Pala", traditional earthen lamp and NPR 8 from the sale of a "Matka", a cup made of clay which is meant for single use only. But the price goes high if they use high-quality black clay. In order to maintain the price as well as the quality of products along with continuing these inherited ancestral businesses, Prajapati said he is thinking of purchasing land with fine quality clay. "We have been searching for places with clay that fits us or else buying land where we can get the required clay abundantly, we are thinking of it," Buddhi Ram Prajapati said amid the confusion as his business lingers in the uncertainty. The Pottery Square here attracts a large number of tourists as well as buyers of the pottery items which are found in a comparatively lower price than in the main market. Prajapati clan which is the oldest residing family of this particular square in Bhaktapur has been preserving and promoting the pottery business from ancient time. Though their business is under threat, they are determined not to leave the business at any cost. "If there's no clay, there comes situation none other than quitting the business but I won't leave my profession till the clay exists there," Buddhi Ram Prajapati said.

Pottery businesses threatened due to shortage of clay in Nepal

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-issues-directives-to-allow-maryam-nawaz-to-stay-with-ailing-father-258082">Maryam Nawaz</a> was moved back to Lahore's Services Hospital on Friday where she will undergo medical tests, a day after Prime Minister Imran Khan issued directives to allow Maryam to stay with her ailing father Nawaz Sharif who is admitted at the same hospital. 
 
Meanwhile, Sharif's health condition has worsened after his platelet count significantly dropped to less than 7,000. The medical team said that the former Pakistan Prime Minister is suffering from acute immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), an immune disorder that leads to an abrupt and sharp drop in blood platelets, reported Dunya News. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maryam-nawaz-admitted-to-lahore-hospital-after-meeting-ailing-father-nawaz-sharif-257794">Maryam</a> had been shifted back to Kot Lakhpath jail on Thursday after undergoing a few medical tests. The PML-N leader was released on parole by the Punjab government on Wednesday to see her father, who has been hospitalised from Monday night. Maryam had earlier claimed that she was denied the permission for the same, Samaa TV reported. 
 
Nawaz was shifted to Lahore's Services Hospital after his health deteriorated Monday night. Sharif's physician, Adnan Khan, had said that his patient had a "critically low" platelet count and requested the authorities to immediately shift him to a hospital.

Earlier, Imran Khan had directed the Punjab government to extend the best medical services to the former Prime Minister in accordance with his family's wishes.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Maryam Nawaz was moved back to Lahore's Services Hospital on Friday where she will undergo medical tests, a day after Prime Minister Imran Khan issued directives to allow Maryam to stay with her ailing father Nawaz Sharif who is admitted at the same hospital.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Maryam Nawaz was moved back to Lahore's Services Hospital on Friday where she will undergo medical tests, a day after Prime Minister Imran Khan issued directives to allow Maryam to stay with her ailing father Nawaz Sharif who is admitted at the same hospital. Meanwhile, Sharif's health condition has worsened after his platelet count significantly dropped to less than 7,000. The medical team said that the former Pakistan Prime Minister is suffering from acute immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), an immune disorder that leads to an abrupt and sharp drop in blood platelets, reported Dunya News. Maryam had been shifted back to Kot Lakhpath jail on Thursday after undergoing a few medical tests. The PML-N leader was released on parole by the Punjab government on Wednesday to see her father, who has been hospitalised from Monday night. Maryam had earlier claimed that she was denied the permission for the same, Samaa TV reported. Nawaz was shifted to Lahore's Services Hospital after his health deteriorated Monday night. Sharif's physician, Adnan Khan, had said that his patient had a "critically low" platelet count and requested the authorities to immediately shift him to a hospital. Earlier, Imran Khan had directed the Punjab government to extend the best medical services to the former Prime Minister in accordance with his family's wishes.

Maryam Nawaz moved to Services Hospital in Lahore

16 People Sentenced To Death In Bangladesh As Court Rules In A Murder Case Of A 19-Year Old Girl. Major development in Bangladesh and one which has caught the attention across the world.

Gravitas: Bangladesh Court Awards Death Penalty To 16

Pakistani women rights activist Gulalai Ismail, who is currently in the United States on Thursday said that her father was picked up by "men wearing militia dress" in Peshwar. 
 
"My father has been picked up by men wearing Militia dress from outside of Peshawar High Court an hour ago," Ismail tweeted.

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My father has been picked up by men wearing Malitia dress from outside of Peshawar High Court an hour ago.
— Gulalai_Ismail (@Gulalai_Ismail) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gulalai_Ismail/status/1187329908403507200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Ismail managed to escape Pakistan to seek political asylum in the United States in September after being accused of treason. She reached the US months after she was arrested and released for holding a protest demonstration outside the National Press Club in Islamabad. 
 
During a chat with the media in New York last month, Ismail had voiced her concerns about her parents' safety in Islamabad. "I am still worried about my parents back home and the underground network that secretly protected me when I escaped," Gulalai said. 
 
She has now become the new face of hope for the oppressed minorities in Pakistani, raising voice against Islamabad's atrocities on the roads of New York. 
 
Last month, Ismail was seen on the streets of the city, highlighted the plight and miseries that minorities are facing for decades and demanded that the Pakistani Army end human rights violations. "There's a dictatorship in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province by the Pakistani military establishment," Ismail had said. 
 
According to a report in Dawn, a non-bailable warrant was issued against her by a Pakistani court in a case pertaining to maligning national institutions. Ismail had deemed the non-bailable arrest warrant as an act of appeasement before the country's intelligence agency ISI. 
 
The order issued states that the court would initiate the process to declare her a "proclaimed offender" if the "suspect" does not appear before the court on October 21, the report had said.

Pakistani women rights activist Gulalai Ismail, who is currently in the United States on Thursday said that her father was picked up by "men wearing militia dress" in Peshwar.

Pakistani women rights activist Gulalai Ismail, who is currently in the United States on Thursday said that her father was picked up by "men wearing militia dress" in Peshwar. "My father has been picked up by men wearing Militia dress from outside of Peshawar High Court an hour ago," Ismail tweeted. My father has been picked up by men wearing Malitia dress from outside of Peshawar High Court an hour ago. — Gulalai_Ismail (@Gulalai_Ismail) October 24, 2019 × Ismail managed to escape Pakistan to seek political asylum in the United States in September after being accused of treason. She reached the US months after she was arrested and released for holding a protest demonstration outside the National Press Club in Islamabad. During a chat with the media in New York last month, Ismail had voiced her concerns about her parents' safety in Islamabad. "I am still worried about my parents back home and the underground network that secretly protected me when I escaped," Gulalai said. She has now become the new face of hope for the oppressed minorities in Pakistani, raising voice against Islamabad's atrocities on the roads of New York. Last month, Ismail was seen on the streets of the city, highlighted the plight and miseries that minorities are facing for decades and demanded that the Pakistani Army end human rights violations. "There's a dictatorship in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province by the Pakistani military establishment," Ismail had said. According to a report in Dawn, a non-bailable warrant was issued against her by a Pakistani court in a case pertaining to maligning national institutions. Ismail had deemed the non-bailable arrest warrant as an act of appeasement before the country's intelligence agency ISI. The order issued states that the court would initiate the process to declare her a "proclaimed offender" if the "suspect" does not appear before the court on October 21, the report had said.

'Father picked up by men in militia dress', Pakistani rights activist Gulalai Ismail

The Ason Bazar, one of the oldest markets of Kathmandu, is all decked up for Tihar. The roads are flooded with hawkers selling a variety of good for the festival of lights and decorations. 
 
The five-day Nepali festival of Tihar shares some traditions with Diwali. 
 
Amongst the goods on sale in landlocked Nepal, people usually buy spices for brothers to offer them on Bhaitika along with the gifts such as "Dhaka Topi" and other cloth items as well as the materials needed for puja. 
 
"The market is buzzing with people with the arrival of Tihar. Flowers, tikas and other items are in high demand these days," Ram Karki, one of the shopkeepers told ANI. 
 
The shops are also are adorned with decorative and light materials. People flowing into the market these days are seen buying the items targeting the Bhaitika. 
 
"For Bhaitika, I bought sweets, spices, colours, beetle-nut, garlands of flowers," Bidhya Dahal, one of the shoppers who came onto the market for Tihar's shopping, told ANI. 
 
The first day of Tihar is marked with the worship of crow, the messenger of Yama, the God of Death. The second day is for worshipping dogs and the third day is for Laxmi pooja or Dhantaresh when people light up their houses and worship Goddess Laxmi and seek her blessings. 
 
The fourth day of Tihar is marked as Gobardhan pooja when people worship ox used to plough. 
 
The final day of Tihar, Bhaitika is celebrated with much fervor when sisters put seven coloured tika on the forehead of their brothers praying for their success and long life. 
 
Sisters also offer a variety of sweets, cuisines and other items along with gifts to their brothers. While the brothers also give gifts and money to their sisters as per their capacity.

The Ason Bazar, one of the oldest markets of Kathmandu, is all decked up for Tihar. The roads are flooded with hawkers selling a variety of good for the festival of lights and decorations.

The Ason Bazar, one of the oldest markets of Kathmandu, is all decked up for Tihar. The roads are flooded with hawkers selling a variety of good for the festival of lights and decorations. The five-day Nepali festival of Tihar shares some traditions with Diwali. Amongst the goods on sale in landlocked Nepal, people usually buy spices for brothers to offer them on Bhaitika along with the gifts such as "Dhaka Topi" and other cloth items as well as the materials needed for puja. "The market is buzzing with people with the arrival of Tihar. Flowers, tikas and other items are in high demand these days," Ram Karki, one of the shopkeepers told ANI. The shops are also are adorned with decorative and light materials. People flowing into the market these days are seen buying the items targeting the Bhaitika. "For Bhaitika, I bought sweets, spices, colours, beetle-nut, garlands of flowers," Bidhya Dahal, one of the shoppers who came onto the market for Tihar's shopping, told ANI. The first day of Tihar is marked with the worship of crow, the messenger of Yama, the God of Death. The second day is for worshipping dogs and the third day is for Laxmi pooja or Dhantaresh when people light up their houses and worship Goddess Laxmi and seek her blessings. The fourth day of Tihar is marked as Gobardhan pooja when people worship ox used to plough. The final day of Tihar, Bhaitika is celebrated with much fervor when sisters put seven coloured tika on the forehead of their brothers praying for their success and long life. Sisters also offer a variety of sweets, cuisines and other items along with gifts to their brothers. While the brothers also give gifts and money to their sisters as per their capacity.

Nepali markets abuzz with arrival of Tihar festival

A court in Bangladesh on Thursday sentenced 16 people to death for the murder of Nusrat Jahan Rafi after she protested against sexual abuse by the principal of a madrasa.

18-year-old Nusrat, residing in the small town of Feni, was set on fire on April 6 two weeks after she registered a complaint against sexual abuse by the principal, reported BD News 24.

The principal, Siraj-Ud-Doula, who reportedly orchestrated the attack is among those sentenced.

Feni Women and Children Repression Prevention Tribunal Judge Mamunur Rashid handed down the verdict.

On April 6, Nusrat was tricked into coming on top of the roof of the madrasa where the perpetrators set her on fire after she refused to withdraw the case. 
 
She was taken to a hospital later,&nbsp;however, she succumbed to her injuries on April 10.

Nusrat's brother Mahmudul Hasan Noman filed a case on April 8 against eight people.

The incident shocked the entire country and led to a series of protests against the oppression of woman and girls.

A court in Bangladesh on Thursday sentenced 16 people to death for the murder of Nusrat Jahan Rafi after she protested against sexual abuse by the principal of a madrasa.

A court in Bangladesh on Thursday sentenced 16 people to death for the murder of Nusrat Jahan Rafi after she protested against sexual abuse by the principal of a madrasa. 18-year-old Nusrat, residing in the small town of Feni, was set on fire on April 6 two weeks after she registered a complaint against sexual abuse by the principal, reported BD News 24. The principal, Siraj-Ud-Doula, who reportedly orchestrated the attack is among those sentenced. Feni Women and Children Repression Prevention Tribunal Judge Mamunur Rashid handed down the verdict. On April 6, Nusrat was tricked into coming on top of the roof of the madrasa where the perpetrators set her on fire after she refused to withdraw the case. She was taken to a hospital later, however, she succumbed to her injuries on April 10. Nusrat's brother Mahmudul Hasan Noman filed a case on April 8 against eight people. The incident shocked the entire country and led to a series of protests against the oppression of woman and girls.

Bangladesh court sentences 16 people to death in Nusrat Jahan Rafi's murder case

Acclaimed Pakistani filmmaker Jamshed Mahmood Raza has added new momentum to the country's fledgeling #MeToo movement after airing allegations that he was raped by an unnamed media tycoon.

The director, who is popularly known as Jami, rocked Pakistani social media over the weekend after he published several tweets describing the alleged assault that happened 13 years ago.

"Why I'm so strongly supporting #metoo? cuz I know exactly how it happens now, inside a room then outside courts inside courts and how a survivor hides confides cuz I was brutally raped by a very powerful person in our media world," he wrote Sunday evening.

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Why im so strongly supporting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/metoo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#metoo</a> ? cuz i know exactly how it happens now, inside a room then outside courts inside courts and how a survivor hides confides cuz i was brutally raped by a very powerful person in our media world. A Giant actually. and yes im taller than him but
— jami (@jamiazaad) <a href="https://twitter.com/jamiazaad/status/1185980753584316418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The tweets were in response to a backlash online after a professor in the eastern city of Lahore committed suicide after allegedly being falsely accused of sexual harassment.

Amid the backlash, Jami pleaded with social media users to trust victims of sexual assault and avoid ignoring their accusations.

"I told my few close friends but no one took it seriously," added Jami, whose 2015 film 'Moor'&nbsp;('Mothe') was a massive hit.

The film-maker has so far refused to name the tycoon allegedly behind the assault, while the allegations have unleashed a torrent of differing reactions online.

"@jamiazaad I see you. I hear&nbsp;you. I stand with you. Always," tweeted popular actress Meesha Shafi -- who helped kickstart Pakistan's #MeToo movement in 2018 after accusing a popular singer in the country of harassment -- on Thursday.

"Jami is a true ally. This is unprecedented in Pakistan. This kind of revelation from a man" wrote Twitter user Khizra.&nbsp;

Others were more sceptical.

"Still, u cant b serious using it to square Lhr professor's suicide &amp; misuse of #MeToo," said another Twitter user Razi. "Pakistan is suffering by both #metoo &amp; misuse of #MeToo."

"No #MeToo here. Should have said No, but succumbed," wrote Ali Raj in response to a blog about the story.

The #MeToo and #Timesup campaigns have gone global since allegations of sexual misconduct by Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein in 2017, sparking an avalanche of accusations against other powerful men.

However, the movement has been slow to catch on in Pakistan, where women have fought for their rights for years in a patriarchal society where so-called "honour" killings and attacks on women remain commonplace.

In 2017, future Prime Minister Imran Khan was also hit with allegations of sexual misconduct by a female lawmaker who accused the famed cricketer of sending obscene text messages.&nbsp;

He later denied the allegations.

Acclaimed Pakistani filmmaker Jamshed Mahmood Raza has added new momentum to the country's fledgeling #MeToo movement after airing allegations that he was raped by an unnamed media tycoon.

Acclaimed Pakistani filmmaker Jamshed Mahmood Raza has added new momentum to the country's fledgeling #MeToo movement after airing allegations that he was raped by an unnamed media tycoon. The director, who is popularly known as Jami, rocked Pakistani social media over the weekend after he published several tweets describing the alleged assault that happened 13 years ago. "Why I'm so strongly supporting #metoo? cuz I know exactly how it happens now, inside a room then outside courts inside courts and how a survivor hides confides cuz I was brutally raped by a very powerful person in our media world," he wrote Sunday evening. Why im so strongly supporting #metoo ? cuz i know exactly how it happens now, inside a room then outside courts inside courts and how a survivor hides confides cuz i was brutally raped by a very powerful person in our media world. A Giant actually. and yes im taller than him but — jami (@jamiazaad) October 20, 2019 × The tweets were in response to a backlash online after a professor in the eastern city of Lahore committed suicide after allegedly being falsely accused of sexual harassment. Amid the backlash, Jami pleaded with social media users to trust victims of sexual assault and avoid ignoring their accusations. "I told my few close friends but no one took it seriously," added Jami, whose 2015 film 'Moor' ('Mothe') was a massive hit. The film-maker has so far refused to name the tycoon allegedly behind the assault, while the allegations have unleashed a torrent of differing reactions online. "@jamiazaad I see you. I hear you. I stand with you. Always," tweeted popular actress Meesha Shafi -- who helped kickstart Pakistan's #MeToo movement in 2018 after accusing a popular singer in the country of harassment -- on Thursday. "Jami is a true ally. This is unprecedented in Pakistan. This kind of revelation from a man" wrote Twitter user Khizra. Others were more sceptical. "Still, u cant b serious using it to square Lhr professor's suicide & misuse of #MeToo," said another Twitter user Razi. "Pakistan is suffering by both #metoo & misuse of #MeToo." "No #MeToo here. Should have said No, but succumbed," wrote Ali Raj in response to a blog about the story. The #MeToo and #Timesup campaigns have gone global since allegations of sexual misconduct by Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein in 2017, sparking an avalanche of accusations against other powerful men. However, the movement has been slow to catch on in Pakistan, where women have fought for their rights for years in a patriarchal society where so-called "honour" killings and attacks on women remain commonplace. In 2017, future Prime Minister Imran Khan was also hit with allegations of sexual misconduct by a female lawmaker who accused the famed cricketer of sending obscene text messages. He later denied the allegations.

Filmmaker in Pakistan stirs #MeToo debate, claims he was raped by media tycoon

Understanding China's Bid To Attain Supremacy In South Asia As the war winds down in Afghanistan, China seeks to gain footprint in the country.

Gravitas: China Gaining Foothold In Afghanistan

Relatives of missing Baloch people on Tuesday held a protest rally in Quetta city to demand the immediate release of their family members who have been illegally abducted by security forces.

The protestors said that a large number of political activists and intellectuals were being abducted illegally by security forces from various parts of Balochistan province in southwestern Pakistan.

Relatives of Rashid Hussain, who was abducted from UAE and later deported to Pakistan also joined the protest. His mother along with other missing person <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/balochistan-women-protest-against-enforced-disappearances-in-quetta-253945">families protested in Quetta</a> for his safe return and release of other Baloch missing persons.

Hussain was handed over to Pakistan's law enforcement agencies in June this year.

He has since been kept in an undisclosed location that has further added to the miseries of his family regarding Rashid's safety and well being.

An online campaign has also been launched to demand the release of Hussain. Social media users are raising their voice using hashtag #SaveRashidHussain and #SaveBalochMissingPersons.

The protesters were also joined by Mama Qadir Baloch, of 'Voice for Baloch Missing Persons', who has been running a campaign for thousands of missing Baloch people.

Similar protests against enforced disappearances were held in Quetta earlier this month.

Enforced disappearances still take place in Balochistan with full immunity and the Pakistani state institutions have repeatedly failed to act against such inhuman crimes of state agencies.

Relatives of missing Baloch people on Tuesday held a protest rally in Quetta city to demand the immediate release of their family members who have been illegally abducted by security forces.

Relatives of missing Baloch people on Tuesday held a protest rally in Quetta city to demand the immediate release of their family members who have been illegally abducted by security forces. The protestors said that a large number of political activists and intellectuals were being abducted illegally by security forces from various parts of Balochistan province in southwestern Pakistan. Relatives of Rashid Hussain, who was abducted from UAE and later deported to Pakistan also joined the protest. His mother along with other missing person families protested in Quetta for his safe return and release of other Baloch missing persons. Hussain was handed over to Pakistan's law enforcement agencies in June this year. He has since been kept in an undisclosed location that has further added to the miseries of his family regarding Rashid's safety and well being. An online campaign has also been launched to demand the release of Hussain. Social media users are raising their voice using hashtag #SaveRashidHussain and #SaveBalochMissingPersons. The protesters were also joined by Mama Qadir Baloch, of 'Voice for Baloch Missing Persons', who has been running a campaign for thousands of missing Baloch people. Similar protests against enforced disappearances were held in Quetta earlier this month. Enforced disappearances still take place in Balochistan with full immunity and the Pakistani state institutions have repeatedly failed to act against such inhuman crimes of state agencies.

Baloch women, children hold protest against enforced disappearances

Thousands of Rohingya living in Bangladesh refugee camps have agreed to move to an island in the Bay of Bengal, officials said Sunday, despite fears the site is prone to flooding.

Dhaka has long wanted to move 100,000 refugees to the muddy silt islet, saying it would take the pressure off the overcrowded border camps where almost a million Rohingya live.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/600000-rohingyas-in-myanmar-still-at-serious-risk-of-genocide-united-nations-249971">Some 740,000 Rohingya fled Myanmar in August 2017</a> in the face of a military crackdown, joining 200,000 refugees already in makeshift tent settlements at Cox's Bazar.

Bangladesh's refugee commissioner, Mahbub Alam, said officials overseeing the relocation would be posted to Bhashan Char island in the next few days.

"Approximately 6,000-7,000 refugees have already expressed their willingness to be relocated to Bhashan Char," Alam told AFP from Cox's Bazar, adding that "the number is rising".

He did not say when the refugees would be moved, but a senior Navy officer involved in building facilities on the island said it could start by December, with some 500 refugees sent daily.

Bangladesh had been planning since last year to relocate Rohingya to the desolate flood-prone site, which is an hour by boat from the mainland.

Rights groups have warned the island, which emerged from the sea only about two decades ago, might not be able to withstand violent storms during the annual monsoon season.&nbsp;

In the past half a century, powerful cyclones have killed hundreds of thousands of people in the Meghna river estuary where the island is located.

Rohingya leaders would be taken to Bhashan Char to view the facilities and living conditions, Alam said.

Safety facilities built on the island include a three-metre-high&nbsp;embankment along its perimeter to&nbsp;keep out tidal surges during cyclones, and a warehouse to store months-worth of rations, he added.

Rohingya father-of-four Nur Hossain, 50, said he and his family agreed to relocate to Bhashan Char after they were shown video footage of the shelters.

"I have agreed to go. The camp here (at Leda) is very overcrowded. There are food and housing problems," the 50-year-old told AFP.

There was no immediate comment from the UN, although Bangladeshi officials said they expect a delegation would visit the island in the next few weeks.&nbsp;

Thousands of Rohingya living in Bangladesh refugee camps have agreed to move to an island in the Bay of Bengal, officials said Sunday, despite fears the site is prone to flooding.

Thousands of Rohingya living in Bangladesh refugee camps have agreed to move to an island in the Bay of Bengal, officials said Sunday, despite fears the site is prone to flooding. Dhaka has long wanted to move 100,000 refugees to the muddy silt islet, saying it would take the pressure off the overcrowded border camps where almost a million Rohingya live. Some 740,000 Rohingya fled Myanmar in August 2017 in the face of a military crackdown, joining 200,000 refugees already in makeshift tent settlements at Cox's Bazar. Bangladesh's refugee commissioner, Mahbub Alam, said officials overseeing the relocation would be posted to Bhashan Char island in the next few days. "Approximately 6,000-7,000 refugees have already expressed their willingness to be relocated to Bhashan Char," Alam told AFP from Cox's Bazar, adding that "the number is rising". He did not say when the refugees would be moved, but a senior Navy officer involved in building facilities on the island said it could start by December, with some 500 refugees sent daily. Bangladesh had been planning since last year to relocate Rohingya to the desolate flood-prone site, which is an hour by boat from the mainland. Rights groups have warned the island, which emerged from the sea only about two decades ago, might not be able to withstand violent storms during the annual monsoon season. In the past half a century, powerful cyclones have killed hundreds of thousands of people in the Meghna river estuary where the island is located. Rohingya leaders would be taken to Bhashan Char to view the facilities and living conditions, Alam said. Safety facilities built on the island include a three-metre-high embankment along its perimeter to keep out tidal surges during cyclones, and a warehouse to store months-worth of rations, he added. Rohingya father-of-four Nur Hossain, 50, said he and his family agreed to relocate to Bhashan Char after they were shown video footage of the shelters. "I have agreed to go. The camp here (at Leda) is very overcrowded. There are food and housing problems," the 50-year-old told AFP. There was no immediate comment from the UN, although Bangladeshi officials said they expect a delegation would visit the island in the next few weeks.

Rohingya refugees agree to move to Bangladesh island: Official

Bangladesh Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal has termed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bangladesh-border-guards-shoot-kill-indian-soldier-official-256586">the firing incident on border in which a BSF soldier was killed by the BGB as 'unfortunate'</a> and said this should not affect the cordial relationship between the two countries. 
 
"This was an unfortunate event, which should not affect the cordial relationship between Bangladesh and India," Dhaka Tribune quoted him as saying on Friday. 
Border Guards of Bangladesh (BGB) had on Thursday opened fire on a Border Security Force (BSF) party, killing one constable and injuring another when the party was trying to trace an Indian fisherman along the India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal. 
 
"We are set to identify the conflicting issues between the two forces, and design peaceful solution to restore the friendly bonding between them," said the Bangladeshi Home Minister. 
 
Head Constable Vijay Bhan Singh of the BSF died after he received bullet injuries on his head. Another constable-cum-boatman received bullet injuries on his right hand. 
According to the BSF, three Indian fishermen had gone for fishing in the river Padma in the border area on Thursday morning. 
 
"Two fishermen returned and approached the BSF post at Kakmarichar and said that the BGB apprehended them all. They, however, released two of them in order to call BSF post-commander for a flag meeting," BSF had said. 
 
"Around 10:30 am, the Post Commander along with five troopers in the BSF boat, approached the BGB patrol in the water channel of River Padma near the boundary. During the flag meeting, the BGB patrol did not release the Indian fisherman and also tried to cordon (gherao) the BSF troops," added the BSF. 
 
Sensing the situation worsening, the BSF party immediately returned following which the BGB troops opened fire on them. 
 
BGB, however, claimed they "fired in self-defence" during a flag meeting along the India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal's Murshidabad. 
 
"It should be noted that four out of the four BSF members were wearing uniforms and the rest were wearing half pants-gauze. Also, it is important to note that the BSF team had weapons," the BGB had said in a statement. 
 
The Bangladeshi Border Guards had said that it told the BSF if they want to take the prisoners back, they would be given a formal return with the flag meeting. 
 
"BGB patrol team informed them that you too came to Bangladesh illegally. So you too will be handed over through official flag meeting," it added. 
 
The BGB further said, "The BSF members were then forced to flee. When the BGB stopped them, the BSF members started firing. Speedboats continued to enter India. The BGB then fired in self-defence. Later, it was reported that one BSF member was killed."

Bangladesh Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal has termed the firing incident on border in which a BSF soldier was killed by the BGB as 'unfortunate' and said this should not affect the cordial relationship between the two countries.

Bangladesh Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal has termed the firing incident on border in which a BSF soldier was killed by the BGB as 'unfortunate' and said this should not affect the cordial relationship between the two countries. "This was an unfortunate event, which should not affect the cordial relationship between Bangladesh and India," Dhaka Tribune quoted him as saying on Friday. Border Guards of Bangladesh (BGB) had on Thursday opened fire on a Border Security Force (BSF) party, killing one constable and injuring another when the party was trying to trace an Indian fisherman along the India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal. "We are set to identify the conflicting issues between the two forces, and design peaceful solution to restore the friendly bonding between them," said the Bangladeshi Home Minister. Head Constable Vijay Bhan Singh of the BSF died after he received bullet injuries on his head. Another constable-cum-boatman received bullet injuries on his right hand. According to the BSF, three Indian fishermen had gone for fishing in the river Padma in the border area on Thursday morning. "Two fishermen returned and approached the BSF post at Kakmarichar and said that the BGB apprehended them all. They, however, released two of them in order to call BSF post-commander for a flag meeting," BSF had said. "Around 10:30 am, the Post Commander along with five troopers in the BSF boat, approached the BGB patrol in the water channel of River Padma near the boundary. During the flag meeting, the BGB patrol did not release the Indian fisherman and also tried to cordon (gherao) the BSF troops," added the BSF. Sensing the situation worsening, the BSF party immediately returned following which the BGB troops opened fire on them. BGB, however, claimed they "fired in self-defence" during a flag meeting along the India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal's Murshidabad. "It should be noted that four out of the four BSF members were wearing uniforms and the rest were wearing half pants-gauze. Also, it is important to note that the BSF team had weapons," the BGB had said in a statement. The Bangladeshi Border Guards had said that it told the BSF if they want to take the prisoners back, they would be given a formal return with the flag meeting. "BGB patrol team informed them that you too came to Bangladesh illegally. So you too will be handed over through official flag meeting," it added. The BGB further said, "The BSF members were then forced to flee. When the BGB stopped them, the BSF members started firing. Speedboats continued to enter India. The BGB then fired in self-defence. Later, it was reported that one BSF member was killed."

Bangladesh Home Minister calls cross-border firing incident 'unfortunate', says it should not affect relationship with India

FATF expresses serious concerns with the lack of progress by Pakistan to address its TF risks. Watch video to know more.

FATF expresses serious concerns with the lack of progress by Pakistan to address its TF risks

An Indian paramilitary guard was killed and another critically wounded after they were fired upon by Bangladeshi troops at a border river on Thursday, Indian security forces said, the first deadly frontier clash between the nations in years.

The incident in&nbsp;West Bengal took place after Bangladesh detained three Indian fishermen for allegedly sailing into their waters searching for Hilsa, a popular fish in regional cuisine.

Two of the fishermen were released or escaped and informed&nbsp;border guards of their detention.

Six Indian guards then took a boat to an island on the Padma River to secure the release of the third fisherman from their Bangladeshi counterparts,&nbsp;Border Security Force (BSF) said.

The BSF said a "border guard was killed and another critically injured in firing by Bangladeshi border troops along the riverine border".

But in a statement late Thursday, Bangladesh said Indian troops fired first after they "forcibly tried to take the detained fisherman" and their border personnel resisted them.

The Indian soldiers "got angry and opened fire and they drove their speedboat back to India by firing all the way. Then the (Border Guard Bangladesh) patrol team fired back in self-defence," the BGB said.

The Indian border force named the slain maritime officer as Head Constable Vijay Bhan Singh. The second guard was taken to hospital, where he was fighting for his life.

Bangladesh said officials from both sides met after the incident and agreed to investigate the encounter and hold future talks.

Illegal fishing is not uncommon in the Sunderbans, a UNESCO world heritage site which straddles the border of India and Bangladesh and is famous for its mangrove forest.

Thousands of people fish in the area around the year. Fishermen detained on both sides are usually released after talks between border officials.

Border relations between India and Bangladesh have been good, and this is the first fatal incident in recent times.

Earlier, in August 2005, guards on both sides exchanged fire over repairs on the Mahananda river, in West Bengal, with no casualties.

An Indian paramilitary guard was killed and another critically wounded after they were fired upon by Bangladeshi troops at a border river on Thursday, Indian security forces said, the first deadly frontier clash between the nations in years.

An Indian paramilitary guard was killed and another critically wounded after they were fired upon by Bangladeshi troops at a border river on Thursday, Indian security forces said, the first deadly frontier clash between the nations in years. The incident in West Bengal took place after Bangladesh detained three Indian fishermen for allegedly sailing into their waters searching for Hilsa, a popular fish in regional cuisine. Two of the fishermen were released or escaped and informed border guards of their detention. Six Indian guards then took a boat to an island on the Padma River to secure the release of the third fisherman from their Bangladeshi counterparts, Border Security Force (BSF) said. The BSF said a "border guard was killed and another critically injured in firing by Bangladeshi border troops along the riverine border". But in a statement late Thursday, Bangladesh said Indian troops fired first after they "forcibly tried to take the detained fisherman" and their border personnel resisted them. The Indian soldiers "got angry and opened fire and they drove their speedboat back to India by firing all the way. Then the (Border Guard Bangladesh) patrol team fired back in self-defence," the BGB said. The Indian border force named the slain maritime officer as Head Constable Vijay Bhan Singh. The second guard was taken to hospital, where he was fighting for his life. Bangladesh said officials from both sides met after the incident and agreed to investigate the encounter and hold future talks. Illegal fishing is not uncommon in the Sunderbans, a UNESCO world heritage site which straddles the border of India and Bangladesh and is famous for its mangrove forest. Thousands of people fish in the area around the year. Fishermen detained on both sides are usually released after talks between border officials. Border relations between India and Bangladesh have been good, and this is the first fatal incident in recent times. Earlier, in August 2005, guards on both sides exchanged fire over repairs on the Mahananda river, in West Bengal, with no casualties.

Bangladesh Border Guards shoot, kill Indian soldier: Official

A transgender candidate has been elected as councillor for a rural Bangladeshi town, the first in the ultra-conservative Muslim-majority nation where laws still discriminate against sexual minorities.

Pinki&nbsp;Khatun&nbsp;was elected as vice-chair of a town council in the country's west on Monday after beating her nearest rival by more than 4,000 votes, local police chief Mahbubul Alam said.

"I am very delighted. I campaigned door-to-door and people have responded positively,"&nbsp;the garment shop owner told AFP.

"I did not face any discrimination or hate campaigns."

Bangladesh has allowed transgenders, known as hijra,&nbsp;an umbrella term referring to someone who is born male but does not refer to themselves as a man or woman, to identify as a separate gender since 2013.&nbsp;

This year, they were allowed to register to vote identifying as this gender.

The 37-year-old councillor is a youth wing official of the ruling Awami League and campaigned as an independent candidate in the 200,000-population town of Kotchandpur after the party did not back anyone.

"My aim is to work for the betterment of women and protect their rights," said the councillor, who previously identified as a woman.

"I'll work for hijras so they can live honourably in society."

The government says there are some 10,000 hijras in Bangladesh but independent estimates say they could number up to 500,000, with many hiding their identity to avoid discrimination.

Bangladesh still has a British colonial-era&nbsp;law where anyone who engages in gay sex faces life in prison, although the legislation is rarely used.

The LGBT community also faces social discrimination.

Transgender rights activist Anonnya Banik said the election of the country's first transgender politician was a "big achievement".

"It will create a positive impact on society and inspire other trans-people. I think it reflects a change in Bangladesh people's attitude towards trans-people," Banik told AFP.&nbsp;

A transgender candidate has been elected as councillor for a rural Bangladeshi town, the first in the ultra-conservative Muslim-majority nation where laws still discriminate against sexual minorities.

A transgender candidate has been elected as councillor for a rural Bangladeshi town, the first in the ultra-conservative Muslim-majority nation where laws still discriminate against sexual minorities. Pinki Khatun was elected as vice-chair of a town council in the country's west on Monday after beating her nearest rival by more than 4,000 votes, local police chief Mahbubul Alam said. "I am very delighted. I campaigned door-to-door and people have responded positively," the garment shop owner told AFP. "I did not face any discrimination or hate campaigns." Bangladesh has allowed transgenders, known as hijra, an umbrella term referring to someone who is born male but does not refer to themselves as a man or woman, to identify as a separate gender since 2013. This year, they were allowed to register to vote identifying as this gender. The 37-year-old councillor is a youth wing official of the ruling Awami League and campaigned as an independent candidate in the 200,000-population town of Kotchandpur after the party did not back anyone. "My aim is to work for the betterment of women and protect their rights," said the councillor, who previously identified as a woman. "I'll work for hijras so they can live honourably in society." The government says there are some 10,000 hijras in Bangladesh but independent estimates say they could number up to 500,000, with many hiding their identity to avoid discrimination. Bangladesh still has a British colonial-era law where anyone who engages in gay sex faces life in prison, although the legislation is rarely used. The LGBT community also faces social discrimination. Transgender rights activist Anonnya Banik said the election of the country's first transgender politician was a "big achievement". "It will create a positive impact on society and inspire other trans-people. I think it reflects a change in Bangladesh people's attitude towards trans-people," Banik told AFP.

First transgender councillor elected in Bangladesh

At least <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-pakistan-violates-ceasefire-in-poonch-district-indian-army-is-retaliating-256030">seven Taliban terrorists were killed and eight others arrested during military operations in Wardak and Paktika</a> provinces in eastern Afghanistan, local media reported on Wednesday.

The Afghan Special Forces also destroyed caches of weapons in the two provinces, the military officials told the Khaama news outlet.

Taliban have not yet commented on the operations.

The Taliban has been waging war against the Afghan government for years, challenging stability and security in the region. As a result of political turmoil, radical groups such as the Islamic State and al-Qaeda have spread across the country.

Throughout 2019, the Taliban held talks with the United States, but the attempts to hammer out a peaceful agreement, which would see foreign troops leave Afghanistan, have not been successful so far.

At least seven Taliban terrorists were killed and eight others arrested during military operations in Wardak and Paktika provinces in eastern Afghanistan, local media reported on Wednesday.

At least seven Taliban terrorists were killed and eight others arrested during military operations in Wardak and Paktika provinces in eastern Afghanistan, local media reported on Wednesday. The Afghan Special Forces also destroyed caches of weapons in the two provinces, the military officials told the Khaama news outlet. Taliban have not yet commented on the operations. The Taliban has been waging war against the Afghan government for years, challenging stability and security in the region. As a result of political turmoil, radical groups such as the Islamic State and al-Qaeda have spread across the country. Throughout 2019, the Taliban held talks with the United States, but the attempts to hammer out a peaceful agreement, which would see foreign troops leave Afghanistan, have not been successful so far.

Seven Taliban terrorists killed, eight arrested in Eastern Afghanistan

Pakistani journalists on Wednesday held a country-wide protest against police brutality on a local reporter in Lahore. 
 
The protest took place after police officials hit Pakistani journalist Usman Ahmed Bhatti for covering the appearance of Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz PML(N)&nbsp;leader Hamza Shahba in court, Geo News reported. 
 
The report said the policemen not only beat-up the reporter but also hit two camerapersons for covering the appearance of Hamza Shahbaz in court. 
 
It also said that other journalists were also roughed-up to make way for the convoy of the PML(N) leader. 
 
Punjab police did not make any comment over allegations of brutality levelled by protesting journalists. 
 
Journalists had earlier come together and protested in front of the court demanding justice against the police action.

Pakistani journalists on Wednesday held a country-wide protest against police brutality on a local reporter in Lahore. The protest took place after police officials hit Pakistani journalist Usman Ahmed Bhatti for covering the appearance of Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz PML(N) leader Hamza Shahba in court, Geo News reported.

Pakistani journalists on Wednesday held a country-wide protest against police brutality on a local reporter in Lahore. The protest took place after police officials hit Pakistani journalist Usman Ahmed Bhatti for covering the appearance of Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz PML(N) leader Hamza Shahba in court, Geo News reported. The report said the policemen not only beat-up the reporter but also hit two camerapersons for covering the appearance of Hamza Shahbaz in court. It also said that other journalists were also roughed-up to make way for the convoy of the PML(N) leader. Punjab police did not make any comment over allegations of brutality levelled by protesting journalists. Journalists had earlier come together and protested in front of the court demanding justice against the police action.

Journalists hold protests against police brutality in Pakistan

In a major development, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/to-support-terrorism-is-pakistans-state-policy-fatf-has-created-pressure-on-it-ajit-doval-255788">Financial Action Task Force</a> (FATF) on Tuesday decided "in principle" that Pakistan will remain on its grey list till February 2020 and directed the country to take "extra measures" for the "complete elimination" of terror financing and money laundering. 
 
The meeting of the international watchdog reviewed the measures taken by Pakistan to control money laundering and terror financing, and observed that Islamabad will have to take further steps on the two parameters in these four months, reported Dawn. 
 
The formal announcement of these decisions will be made on October 18. 
 
The country was placed on the Grey List by the watchdog in June 2018 and was given 15 months to complete implementation of a 27-point action plan, failing which it be placed in the Black List. 
 
It included safeguards against money-laundering and terror-financing by banned outfits and non-government entities through banking and non-banking jurisdictions, capital markets, corporate and non-corporate sectors like chartered accountancy, financial advisory services, cost and management accountancy firm, jewellery and similar related services. 
 
According to Dawn, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fatf-meet-to-begin-in-paris-today-outcome-to-decide-paks-fate-on-terror-listing-255569">the FATF has linked the blacklisting of Pakistan with "unsatisfactory steps"</a> to curb money laundering and terror financing. The watchdog will make its final decision in February 2020. 
 
The report said that China, Turkey and Malaysia appreciated the steps taken by Pakistan, and on the outright support extended by these countries, the FATF decided not to include Pakistan on the blacklist and give it more time to implement the remaining measures. 
 
On being asked about the development, Pakistan Finance Ministry spokesperson Omar Hameed Khan responded, "it is not true and nothing before October 18". 
 
A Pakistani delegation led by Minister for Economic Affairs Hammad Azhar told the meeting that the country has made positive progress in 20 out of 27 points. The FATF expressed satisfaction on the measures taken by Pakistan and its progress in various areas.

In a major development, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on Tuesday decided "in principle" that Pakistan will remain on its grey list till February 2020 and directed the country to take "extra measures" for the "complete elimination" of terror financing and money laundering.

In a major development, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on Tuesday decided "in principle" that Pakistan will remain on its grey list till February 2020 and directed the country to take "extra measures" for the "complete elimination" of terror financing and money laundering. The meeting of the international watchdog reviewed the measures taken by Pakistan to control money laundering and terror financing, and observed that Islamabad will have to take further steps on the two parameters in these four months, reported Dawn. The formal announcement of these decisions will be made on October 18. The country was placed on the Grey List by the watchdog in June 2018 and was given 15 months to complete implementation of a 27-point action plan, failing which it be placed in the Black List. It included safeguards against money-laundering and terror-financing by banned outfits and non-government entities through banking and non-banking jurisdictions, capital markets, corporate and non-corporate sectors like chartered accountancy, financial advisory services, cost and management accountancy firm, jewellery and similar related services. According to Dawn, the FATF has linked the blacklisting of Pakistan with "unsatisfactory steps" to curb money laundering and terror financing. The watchdog will make its final decision in February 2020. The report said that China, Turkey and Malaysia appreciated the steps taken by Pakistan, and on the outright support extended by these countries, the FATF decided not to include Pakistan on the blacklist and give it more time to implement the remaining measures. On being asked about the development, Pakistan Finance Ministry spokesperson Omar Hameed Khan responded, "it is not true and nothing before October 18". A Pakistani delegation led by Minister for Economic Affairs Hammad Azhar told the meeting that the country has made positive progress in 20 out of 27 points. The FATF expressed satisfaction on the measures taken by Pakistan and its progress in various areas.

Pakistan to remain on Financial Action Task Force grey list till February 2020

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