Indian PM Modi will pay a state visit to Egypt on June 24-25, at the invitation of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. This trip is significant because it is Modi's first trip to Egypt and the first official bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Egypt since 1997.

PM Modi concludes US visit, next stop Egypt

After the White House threw out the red carpet for the Indian prime minister on Thursday, citing agreements on defence and commerce geared at limiting China's influence globally, U.S. President Joe Biden and Narendra Modi heralded a new era in their nations' relations. "Two great countries, two excellent allies, and two formidable powers. At a state banquet, Biden toasted Modi and said, "Cheers. You are mild spoken, but when it comes to action, you are quite forceful, Modi retorted.

PM Modi in US: United States of America to ease visas for skilled Indian workers

PM Modi in US: India-US high tech handshake event ends at the White House

US President Joe Biden hosts news conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi took limited questions from journalists in the United States after delivering remarks with US President Joe Biden. Narendra Modi said while responding to a question "We oppose the exploitation of the environment. India is the only G20 member nation that has carried on all of its commitments from the summit. India is being developed as a centre for renewable energy."

India only country to fulfill promises made during G20 summit: PM Modi on climate change

US President Joe Biden hosts news conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi will take limited questions from journalists in the United States after delivering remarks with US President Joe Biden.

PM Modi in US | Joe Biden: Our economic partnership is booming

PM Narendra Modi’s visit to the US has triggered investment announcements from major companies. Semiconductor toolmaker applied materials has set its sights on India, announcing a jaw-dropping investment of $400 million in the country's engineering sector. This decision follows a high-profile meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and applied materials' CEO, Gary Dickerson.

Applied materials invests $400 mn in India's engineering future

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden are holding bilateral talks at the Oval Office in the White House. The leaders will talk to the media shortly. Some big announcements will be made. What is on the cards? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: What to expect from PM Modi & Biden's bilateral talks?

The joint communique issued by India & the US takes an indirect aim at China. It stresses on the importance of freedom of navigation & overflight in the East & South China seas. Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Is China the driving factor behind India, US closeness?

Joe Biden and US first lady Jill Biden hosted a state dinner for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the WHite House. The US president and Narendra Modi said the two democracies is a partnership taht would define the next century.

Biden hosts state dinner for Indian PM

The dark side of artificial intelligence (AI) was seen in an unprecedented case when a fine of $5,000 was imposed on two lawyers and a law firm as they were accused of using ChatGPT for their submission of fictitious legal research in an aviation injury claim.&nbsp;

A federal judge P Kevin Castel on Thursday (June 22) said that the intention of the lawyers was not good and they acted in bad faith.&nbsp;However, the judge further said that they issued an apology and also took appropriate steps to fix the issue.&nbsp;

He said the main aim was to set an example for them and others so that the same mistake doesn't get repeated in future - a reason why harsher sanctions were not issued against them.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-agrees-to-follow-eus-tough-anti-disinformation-laws-607894">Twitter agrees to follow EU's tough anti-disinformation laws</a>

As quoted by local reports, Castel wrote, "Technological advances are commonplace and there is nothing inherently improper about using a reliable artificial intelligence tool for assistance. But existing rules impose a gatekeeping role on attorneys to ensure the accuracy of their filings."&nbsp;

According to the judge, the lawyers and their firm, Levidow, Levidow &amp; Oberman, P.C., "abandoned their responsibilities when they submitted non-existent judicial opinions with fake quotes and citations created by the artificial intelligence tool ChatGPT, then continued to stand by the fake opinions after judicial orders called their existence into question."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-introduces-ai-curriculum-including-chatgpt-for-junior-secondary-students-607900">Hong Kong introduces AI curriculum, including ChatGPT, for junior secondary students</a>

Watch:&nbsp;Hong Kong rolls out first AI curriculum

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Meanwhile, the law firm responded to the judge's order, stating that they would comply with it. However, they also said that they "respectfully disagree" with the finding that "anyone at our firm acted in bad faith".&nbsp;

The firm added, "We have already apologised to the court and our client. We continue to believe that in the face of what even the court acknowledged was an unprecedented situation, we made a good faith mistake in failing to believe that a piece of technology could be making up cases out of whole cloth."&nbsp;

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The dark side of artificial intelligence (AI) was seen in an unprecedented case when a fine of $5,000 was imposed on two lawyers and a law firm as they were accused of using ChatGPT for their submission of fictitious legal research in an aviation injury claim.

The dark side of artificial intelligence (AI) was seen in an unprecedented case when a fine of $5,000 was imposed on two lawyers and a law firm as they were accused of using ChatGPT for their submission of fictitious legal research in an aviation injury claim. A federal judge P Kevin Castel on Thursday (June 22) said that the intention of the lawyers was not good and they acted in bad faith. However, the judge further said that they issued an apology and also took appropriate steps to fix the issue. He said the main aim was to set an example for them and others so that the same mistake doesn't get repeated in future - a reason why harsher sanctions were not issued against them. Also read: Twitter agrees to follow EU's tough anti-disinformation laws As quoted by local reports, Castel wrote, "Technological advances are commonplace and there is nothing inherently improper about using a reliable artificial intelligence tool for assistance. But existing rules impose a gatekeeping role on attorneys to ensure the accuracy of their filings." According to the judge, the lawyers and their firm, Levidow, Levidow & Oberman, P.C., "abandoned their responsibilities when they submitted non-existent judicial opinions with fake quotes and citations created by the artificial intelligence tool ChatGPT, then continued to stand by the fake opinions after judicial orders called their existence into question." Also read: Hong Kong introduces AI curriculum, including ChatGPT, for junior secondary students Watch: Hong Kong rolls out first AI curriculum × Meanwhile, the law firm responded to the judge's order, stating that they would comply with it. However, they also said that they "respectfully disagree" with the finding that "anyone at our firm acted in bad faith". The firm added, "We have already apologised to the court and our client. We continue to believe that in the face of what even the court acknowledged was an unprecedented situation, we made a good faith mistake in failing to believe that a piece of technology could be making up cases out of whole cloth." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US judge fines lawyers for using ChatGPT to produce fake legal history

U.S. President Joe Biden and Narendra Modi hailed a new era in their countries’ relationship after the White House rolled out the red carpet for the Indian prime minister on Thursday, touting deals on defense and commerce aimed at countering China’s global influence.

Biden, Modi hail new era for US-India ties and tout deals

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently on a historic state visit to the US. During his nine years in office, the Indian PM has visited the US five times so far. But this visit is special. He is being accorded full diplomatic protocol in the capacity of a state guest, he is set to address a joint session of US Congress for the second time and he will be laying the ground for full-fledged defence industrial cooperation between the two powerful democracies.

Unsurprisingly, the grandeur of the visit has ruffled the feathers of those who see no interest in the Indo-US partnership getting stronger, especially under PM Modi. Earlier this week, 75 Democratic lawmakers wrote a letter to US President Joe Biden urging him to raise the issue of ‘democratic backsliding’ in India. “The rise of religious intolerance, the targeting of civil society organisations and journalists, and growing restrictions on press freedoms and internet access,” were some concerns that the letter raised.

Two lawmakers — Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib — went as far as to declare their intention to boycott PM Modi’s address to the Congress altogether. In her tweet, Ilhan Omar wrote that she was not going to attend Modi’s speech because his government “has repressed religious minorities, emboldened violent Hindu nationalist groups, and targeted journalists/human rights advocates with impunity.”

India remains a proud, thriving democracy with stronger than ever economic and political muscles. With a veteran diplomat Dr S Jaishankar at the helm of affairs in India’s External Affairs Ministry, the country’s newfound assertive diplomacy and ‘India First’ approach have made foreign policy an issue of household discussion in India. With more Indians now closely watching India’s rising stature on the global stage, a sentiment is increasingly taking wings among ordinary masses—the condescending behaviour of the West must stop.

After all, no one is perfect, and neither is the ‘great’ nation of the United States of America.

The country, which loves to call itself a human rights champion, has increasingly failed to put its house in order in the backdrop of rising gun violence and rampant drug abuse. As the BBC puts it, Gun violence is a fixture in American life. According to Pew Research, a whopping 48,830 people died in the US due to gun violence in 2021 alone, a 23 per cent rise since 2019.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-mass-shootings-in-a-day-rock-us-three-killed-many-injured-605863">ALSO READ| Three mass shootings in a day rock US: Four killed, at least 38 shot</a> 
 
Nearly half of US states have relaxed gun controls, which has led to a staggering increase in mass shootings and gun homicide. In 2023, a total of 203 mass shootings have occurred in the US. Each day, more than 50 people are killed in the US by a firearm. It features on top among nations having the most civilian guns. As per BBC, “The US ratio of 120.5 firearms per 100 residents, up from 88 per 100 in 2011, far surpasses that of other countries around the world.”

In a civilised world, safe and legal abortion is considered a woman’s basic human right. However, in the US, women have lost this right currently in 14 states, after the overturning of Roe vs Wade by the US Supreme Court. This means a woman will now have to travel hundreds of miles in the US itself to access legal abortion.

USA’s criminal legal system is also heavily flawed, with the country having the highest incarceration rate in the world. Nearly 2 million people are currently held in state and federal jails in America. The rise in police violence is also a major concern. A total of 1,241 people lost their lives due to police brutality in the US in 2022, according to Mapping Police Violence. In 2023 so far, US police have already killed 454 people. According to the Human Rights Watch, police kill Black people at three times the rate they kill white people. This also raises concerns regarding widespread racial inequality in the country.

USA’s disastrous drug policy also stands tall as a major threat to human rights in the country. From December 2020 to December 2021, a total of 107,000 people lost their lives to drug abuse in the US. Synthetic opioids other than methadone (primarily fentanyl) were the main driver of drug overdose deaths with a nearly 7.5-fold increase from 2015 to 2021. In the words of Brookings, America’s War on Drugs has been a staggering policy failure, advancing few of the claims that presidents, members of Congress, law enforcement officials, and state and local leaders have sought to achieve.

And with the country’s major opposition leader and former President Donald Trump facing the prospect of getting jailed for hundreds of years, many Americans are now growing pessimistic about the state of US democracy. According to a report by Associated Press, only half of Americans believe USA’s electoral system is free and fair.

Being the world’s largest Democracy, it becomes imperative for India to take note of this democratic backsliding in the US. “We believe that friends can and should discuss their differences in an honest and forthright way,” wrote the 75 Democratic lawmakers in their letter to Joe Biden earlier this week.&nbsp;

So, upholding the same spirit of democratic brotherhood, it’s high time for India to raise the issue of deteriorating human rights in the US with the Biden administration officially. Failing to do so would serve great injustice to the people of the United States of America and Indo-US ties. 
&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)&nbsp;

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently on a historic state visit to the US. During his nine years in office, the Indian PM has visited the US five times so far.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently on a historic state visit to the US. During his nine years in office, the Indian PM has visited the US five times so far. But this visit is special. He is being accorded full diplomatic protocol in the capacity of a state guest, he is set to address a joint session of US Congress for the second time and he will be laying the ground for full-fledged defence industrial cooperation between the two powerful democracies. Unsurprisingly, the grandeur of the visit has ruffled the feathers of those who see no interest in the Indo-US partnership getting stronger, especially under PM Modi. Earlier this week, 75 Democratic lawmakers wrote a letter to US President Joe Biden urging him to raise the issue of ‘democratic backsliding’ in India. “The rise of religious intolerance, the targeting of civil society organisations and journalists, and growing restrictions on press freedoms and internet access,” were some concerns that the letter raised. Two lawmakers — Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib — went as far as to declare their intention to boycott PM Modi’s address to the Congress altogether. In her tweet, Ilhan Omar wrote that she was not going to attend Modi’s speech because his government “has repressed religious minorities, emboldened violent Hindu nationalist groups, and targeted journalists/human rights advocates with impunity.” India remains a proud, thriving democracy with stronger than ever economic and political muscles. With a veteran diplomat Dr S Jaishankar at the helm of affairs in India’s External Affairs Ministry, the country’s newfound assertive diplomacy and ‘India First’ approach have made foreign policy an issue of household discussion in India. With more Indians now closely watching India’s rising stature on the global stage, a sentiment is increasingly taking wings among ordinary masses—the condescending behaviour of the West must stop. After all, no one is perfect, and neither is the ‘great’ nation of the United States of America. The country, which loves to call itself a human rights champion, has increasingly failed to put its house in order in the backdrop of rising gun violence and rampant drug abuse. As the BBC puts it, Gun violence is a fixture in American life. According to Pew Research, a whopping 48,830 people died in the US due to gun violence in 2021 alone, a 23 per cent rise since 2019. ALSO READ| Three mass shootings in a day rock US: Four killed, at least 38 shot Nearly half of US states have relaxed gun controls, which has led to a staggering increase in mass shootings and gun homicide. In 2023, a total of 203 mass shootings have occurred in the US. Each day, more than 50 people are killed in the US by a firearm. It features on top among nations having the most civilian guns. As per BBC, “The US ratio of 120.5 firearms per 100 residents, up from 88 per 100 in 2011, far surpasses that of other countries around the world.” In a civilised world, safe and legal abortion is considered a woman’s basic human right. However, in the US, women have lost this right currently in 14 states, after the overturning of Roe vs Wade by the US Supreme Court. This means a woman will now have to travel hundreds of miles in the US itself to access legal abortion. USA’s criminal legal system is also heavily flawed, with the country having the highest incarceration rate in the world. Nearly 2 million people are currently held in state and federal jails in America. The rise in police violence is also a major concern. A total of 1,241 people lost their lives due to police brutality in the US in 2022, according to Mapping Police Violence. In 2023 so far, US police have already killed 454 people. According to the Human Rights Watch, police kill Black people at three times the rate they kill white people. This also raises concerns regarding widespread racial inequality in the country. USA’s disastrous drug policy also stands tall as a major threat to human rights in the country. From December 2020 to December 2021, a total of 107,000 people lost their lives to drug abuse in the US. Synthetic opioids other than methadone (primarily fentanyl) were the main driver of drug overdose deaths with a nearly 7.5-fold increase from 2015 to 2021. In the words of Brookings, America’s War on Drugs has been a staggering policy failure, advancing few of the claims that presidents, members of Congress, law enforcement officials, and state and local leaders have sought to achieve. And with the country’s major opposition leader and former President Donald Trump facing the prospect of getting jailed for hundreds of years, many Americans are now growing pessimistic about the state of US democracy. According to a report by Associated Press, only half of Americans believe USA’s electoral system is free and fair. Being the world’s largest Democracy, it becomes imperative for India to take note of this democratic backsliding in the US. “We believe that friends can and should discuss their differences in an honest and forthright way,” wrote the 75 Democratic lawmakers in their letter to Joe Biden earlier this week. So, upholding the same spirit of democratic brotherhood, it’s high time for India to raise the issue of deteriorating human rights in the US with the Biden administration officially. Failing to do so would serve great injustice to the people of the United States of America and Indo-US ties. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Declining human rights in US: It's time PM Modi brings it up in talks with Biden

US President Joe Biden raises a toast to Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the State dinner hosted at the White House in his honour. "I want to thank US President Joe Biden for this wonderful dinner today. I would also like to thank First Lady Jill Biden for taking care of my visit to make it successful. Yesterday evening you opened the doors of your house for me," said PM Modi during the official State Dinner at The White House.

PM Modi in US | Biden & PM Modi: India-US partnership would define next century

PM Modi in US | Joe Biden: Great bonds of friendship between India and US

President Joe Biden reassured that any negative repercussions arising from his remarks&nbsp;of President Xi Jinping of China being a "dictator" would not compromise the recent diplomatic advancements made between Washington and Beijing, reported AFP.

“The answer to your question is no,” Biden said during a White House press conference on Thursday when asked if his comments were detrimental&nbsp;to US-China ties.

“I don’t think it’s had any real consequence,” Biden added.&nbsp;The president said he expects to meet with Xi “in the near term.”

On Thursday, the Chinese Embassy conveyed that Xie Feng, China's ambassador to the US, had expressed strong objections to high-ranking officials in the White House and State Department. According to a statement from Chinese Embassy Spokesperson Liu Pengyu, the remarks were criticised as being incorrect, illogical, and lacking responsibility. 
 
Additionally, it was cautioned that the Chinese government would firmly retaliate and reject any form of political instigation against its top leader.

During a campaign fundraiser in California on Tuesday, President Biden made comments referring to China's leader as a "dictator." These remarks implied that the Chinese leader might have felt humiliated due to his alleged lack of knowledge regarding a Chinese spy balloon having crossed the United States in February.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/democracy-is-in-indias-dna-no-space-for-discrimination-says-pm-modi-on-minority-rights-607527">'Democracy is in India's DNA, no space for discrimination', says PM Modi on minority rights</a>

“The reason why Xi Jinping got very upset in terms of when I shot that balloon down with two boxcars full spy gear is because he didn’t know was there,” Biden said.

“That’s great embarrassment for dictators, he didn’t know what happened. That wasn’t supposed to be going where it was,” he added.&nbsp;

In the statement, Liu criticised Biden's remark&nbsp;as a "smear" that directly contradicts established facts, violates diplomatic norms, and encroaches upon China's political dignity.

“We urge the US&nbsp;side to immediately take earnest actions to undo the negative impact and honour its own commitments,” the Chinese spokesperson said. “Otherwise, it will have to bear all the consequences.”

<h2>Repercussions and contrasting views following Biden's remarks on China</h2>

President Biden's comments regarding China came just a few days after his top diplomat, Secretary of State Blinken, concluded meetings in Beijing, including a meeting with President Xi Jinping. During the meetings, Xi praised the visit, acknowledging progress and specific agreements reached, describing the outcome as positive.

Also watch |&nbsp;Over 400 guests invited to the state dinner at the White House

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Shortly after the meetings, Blinken addressed reporters, highlighting the progress made and emphasising the mutual agreement to stabilise the relationship between the United States and China.

However, in a statement issued on Thursday, Chinese officials expressed strong disapproval of Biden's comments, stating that they contradict the commitments made by the US&nbsp;side and undermine mutual trust. The Chinese further described the nature and impact of Biden's remarks as highly negative.

(With inputs from agencies)

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President Joe Biden reassured that any negative repercussions arising from his remarks of President Xi Jinping of China being a "dictator" would not compromise the recent diplomatic advancements made between Washington and Beijing, reported AFP.

President Joe Biden reassured that any negative repercussions arising from his remarks of President Xi Jinping of China being a "dictator" would not compromise the recent diplomatic advancements made between Washington and Beijing, reported AFP. “The answer to your question is no,” Biden said during a White House press conference on Thursday when asked if his comments were detrimental to US-China ties. “I don’t think it’s had any real consequence,” Biden added. The president said he expects to meet with Xi “in the near term.” On Thursday, the Chinese Embassy conveyed that Xie Feng, China's ambassador to the US, had expressed strong objections to high-ranking officials in the White House and State Department. According to a statement from Chinese Embassy Spokesperson Liu Pengyu, the remarks were criticised as being incorrect, illogical, and lacking responsibility. Additionally, it was cautioned that the Chinese government would firmly retaliate and reject any form of political instigation against its top leader. During a campaign fundraiser in California on Tuesday, President Biden made comments referring to China's leader as a "dictator." These remarks implied that the Chinese leader might have felt humiliated due to his alleged lack of knowledge regarding a Chinese spy balloon having crossed the United States in February. Also read | 'Democracy is in India's DNA, no space for discrimination', says PM Modi on minority rights “The reason why Xi Jinping got very upset in terms of when I shot that balloon down with two boxcars full spy gear is because he didn’t know was there,” Biden said. “That’s great embarrassment for dictators, he didn’t know what happened. That wasn’t supposed to be going where it was,” he added. In the statement, Liu criticised Biden's remark as a "smear" that directly contradicts established facts, violates diplomatic norms, and encroaches upon China's political dignity. “We urge the US side to immediately take earnest actions to undo the negative impact and honour its own commitments,” the Chinese spokesperson said. “Otherwise, it will have to bear all the consequences.” Repercussions and contrasting views following Biden's remarks on China President Biden's comments regarding China came just a few days after his top diplomat, Secretary of State Blinken, concluded meetings in Beijing, including a meeting with President Xi Jinping. During the meetings, Xi praised the visit, acknowledging progress and specific agreements reached, describing the outcome as positive. Also watch | Over 400 guests invited to the state dinner at the White House Shortly after the meetings, Blinken addressed reporters, highlighting the progress made and emphasising the mutual agreement to stabilise the relationship between the United States and China. However, in a statement issued on Thursday, Chinese officials expressed strong disapproval of Biden's comments, stating that they contradict the commitments made by the US side and undermine mutual trust. The Chinese further described the nature and impact of Biden's remarks as highly negative. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Biden says he sees 'no real consequence' to calling Xi a 'dictator', expects to meet him in 'near term'

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a state visit to the United States, was questioned in a presser about free speech and religious freedom in India. The US reporter also asked the prime minister about discrimination against minority communities&nbsp; and the measures his government was taking to improve the rights of minorities in the country.

Replying to a reporter’s question at a joint press conference with US President Joe Biden, PM Modi strongly defended India’s record on democracy, his government’s performance and human rights. 
 
PM Modi dismissed concerns that minority communities were being discriminated against in India. Modi said no Indian citizen is discriminated against on the basis of caste, creed, religion, or gender. 
 
"We are a democracy...India &amp; America both have democracy in our DNA. Democracy is in our spirit &amp; we live it and it's written in our Constitution...So no question of discrimination on the grounds of caste, creed or religion arises. That is why, India believes in sabka saath, sabka vikas, sabka vishwas, sabka prayaas and walks ahead with it..," 
&nbsp;

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— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1671944920893124609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Further denying any discrimination against minority communities, he said, "Regardless of caste, creed, religion, gender, there's absolutely no space for discrimination. That is why, India believes in ‘Sabka saath, sabka vikas, sabka vishwas, sabka prayaas’ and walks ahead with it." 
 
The PM emphasised that India's Constitution serves as the bedrock upon which the nation operates and ensures that every citizen is treated with equality and dignity. 
 
“Our Constitution and our government have always proved that democracy can deliver. And when I say deliver, it is regardless of caste, creed, religion, and gender. There’s absolutely no space for discrimination,” Modi said. 
 
Our government remains resolute in its commitment to upholding the principles of equality and justice, he added. 
 
“In India, the benefits that are provided by the government are accessible to all, whoever deserves them, they are available to everyone without any discrimination on the basis of caste, creed, age, or geographic location,” Modi said. 
&nbsp;

<h2>Obama says India risks 'pulling apart' without minority rights</h2>

Earlier in the day, former US president Barack Obama, raised concerns about India as he said that New Delhi risks "pulling apart" if the Muslim minority is not respected. He also called for the matter to be raised with PM Narendra Modi, who is currently on a US visit.&nbsp;

Obama, who is&nbsp;on a visit to Greece where he is holding a weeklong session for emerging global leaders, said that addressing human rights with allies was always "complicated".&nbsp;

"I think it is true that if the president meets with Prime Minister Modi, then the protection of the Muslim minority in a majority-Hindu India, that's something worth mentioning," the first African-American president said in an interview with CNN International anchor Christiane Amanpour.

"If I had a conversation with Prime Minister Modi, who I know well, part of my argument would be that if you do not protect the rights of ethnic minorities in India, there is a strong possibility at some point that India starts pulling apart," Obama said.

"We've seen what happens when you start getting those kinds of large internal conflicts. So that would be contrary to the interests not just of Muslim India but also of Hindu India," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a state visit to the United States, was questioned in a presser about free speech and religious freedom in India.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a state visit to the United States, was questioned in a presser about free speech and religious freedom in India. The US reporter also asked the prime minister about discrimination against minority communities and the measures his government was taking to improve the rights of minorities in the country. Replying to a reporter’s question at a joint press conference with US President Joe Biden, PM Modi strongly defended India’s record on democracy, his government’s performance and human rights. PM Modi dismissed concerns that minority communities were being discriminated against in India. Modi said no Indian citizen is discriminated against on the basis of caste, creed, religion, or gender. "We are a democracy...India & America both have democracy in our DNA. Democracy is in our spirit & we live it and it's written in our Constitution...So no question of discrimination on the grounds of caste, creed or religion arises. That is why, India believes in sabka saath, sabka vikas, sabka vishwas, sabka prayaas and walks ahead with it..," #WATCH | "We are a democracy...India & America both have democracy in our DNA. Democracy is in our spirit & we live it and it's written in our Constitution...So no question of discrimination on the grounds of caste, creed or religion arises. That is why, India believes in sabka… pic.twitter.com/orVkCVkLLf — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2023 × Further denying any discrimination against minority communities, he said, "Regardless of caste, creed, religion, gender, there's absolutely no space for discrimination. That is why, India believes in ‘Sabka saath, sabka vikas, sabka vishwas, sabka prayaas’ and walks ahead with it." The PM emphasised that India's Constitution serves as the bedrock upon which the nation operates and ensures that every citizen is treated with equality and dignity. “Our Constitution and our government have always proved that democracy can deliver. And when I say deliver, it is regardless of caste, creed, religion, and gender. There’s absolutely no space for discrimination,” Modi said. Our government remains resolute in its commitment to upholding the principles of equality and justice, he added. “In India, the benefits that are provided by the government are accessible to all, whoever deserves them, they are available to everyone without any discrimination on the basis of caste, creed, age, or geographic location,” Modi said. Obama says India risks 'pulling apart' without minority rights Earlier in the day, former US president Barack Obama, raised concerns about India as he said that New Delhi risks "pulling apart" if the Muslim minority is not respected. He also called for the matter to be raised with PM Narendra Modi, who is currently on a US visit. Obama, who is on a visit to Greece where he is holding a weeklong session for emerging global leaders, said that addressing human rights with allies was always "complicated". "I think it is true that if the president meets with Prime Minister Modi, then the protection of the Muslim minority in a majority-Hindu India, that's something worth mentioning," the first African-American president said in an interview with CNN International anchor Christiane Amanpour. "If I had a conversation with Prime Minister Modi, who I know well, part of my argument would be that if you do not protect the rights of ethnic minorities in India, there is a strong possibility at some point that India starts pulling apart," Obama said. "We've seen what happens when you start getting those kinds of large internal conflicts. So that would be contrary to the interests not just of Muslim India but also of Hindu India," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ]

‘Democracy is in India’s DNA, no space for discrimination,’ says PM Modi on minority rights

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to address the US Congress twice. This historic milestone underscored the growing ties between India and the United States, generating a wave of excitement that filled the Congress hall with chants of 'Modi Modi'. With 15 standing ovations and 79 applauses, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's impactful speech left a lasting impression on the audience.

Indian PM's address reverberates in the hall of US Congress, sparks enthusiastic 'Modi Modi' chants

A mother in Ohio named&nbsp;Kristel Candelario, aged 31 and residing in Cleveland, has been accused of murder after allegedly abandoning her 16-month-old child at home while she went on vacation to Puerto Rico and Detroit.

City officials revealed that Candelario left her child unattended from June 8 to June 16. Upon her return on Friday, June 16, she discovered her daughter&nbsp;unresponsive.

Following the incident, law enforcement authorities swiftly intervened. The toddler was promptly transported from the Cudell neighborhood's 3100 block on West 97th Street to the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner by local authorities. However, the medical examiner has not yet disclosed the cause of the toddler's&nbsp;death.

Investigations revealed that the child was severely dehydrated, leading to her untimely demise.

Candelario was apprehended in connection with her daughter's death. Suleyn Gonzalez, a neighbour, informed WOIO, a CBS affiliate, that the grandmother typically took care of the baby in her absence. Gonzalez expressed her dismay, stating, "(The baby's) mom always wanted to go out and just left her with her grandma and all that."

Candelario is now facing charges of murder and is scheduled to appear in court on June 28 for a pre-trial hearing, reported&nbsp;Newsweek.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-mother-of-6-year-old-boy-who-shot-teacher-faces-new-federal-charges-601266">US: Mother of 6-year-old boy who shot teacher faces new federal charges</a>

The tragic incident highlights a prevalent issue of child abuse and neglect in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least one in seven children in the country has&nbsp;experienced abuse or neglect in the past year.

Shockingly, the CDC acknowledges that these figures are likely underestimates due to unreported cases. In 2020 alone, 1,750 children lost their lives in the United States as a result of abuse and neglect.

<h2>Trend of child neglect rises</h2>

Disturbingly, similar cases of parental neglect leading to child fatalities have been reported in recent times. Earlier this year, in Artesia, New Mexico, a mother named Alexee J. Trevizo was arrested for first-degree murder after her newborn baby's body was discovered in a hospital trash can.

Trevizo had visited the emergency room in January, complaining of back pain, only to learn of her pregnancy. The Office of the Medical Investigator (OMI) determined the death of the infant to be a homicide on March 28, 2023.

Also watch |&nbsp;PM Modi's state visit to the US: A flurry of deals on AI and defence

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As child neglect cases continue to emerge, there is an urgent need for society to address and prevent such tragedies, ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable children.

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A mother in Ohio named Kristel Candelario, aged 31 and residing in Cleveland, has been accused of murder after allegedly abandoning her 16-month-old child at home while she went on vacation to Puerto Rico and Detroit.

A mother in Ohio named Kristel Candelario, aged 31 and residing in Cleveland, has been accused of murder after allegedly abandoning her 16-month-old child at home while she went on vacation to Puerto Rico and Detroit. City officials revealed that Candelario left her child unattended from June 8 to June 16. Upon her return on Friday, June 16, she discovered her daughter unresponsive. Following the incident, law enforcement authorities swiftly intervened. The toddler was promptly transported from the Cudell neighborhood's 3100 block on West 97th Street to the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner by local authorities. However, the medical examiner has not yet disclosed the cause of the toddler's death. Investigations revealed that the child was severely dehydrated, leading to her untimely demise. Candelario was apprehended in connection with her daughter's death. Suleyn Gonzalez, a neighbour, informed WOIO, a CBS affiliate, that the grandmother typically took care of the baby in her absence. Gonzalez expressed her dismay, stating, "(The baby's) mom always wanted to go out and just left her with her grandma and all that." Candelario is now facing charges of murder and is scheduled to appear in court on June 28 for a pre-trial hearing, reported Newsweek. Also read | US: Mother of 6-year-old boy who shot teacher faces new federal charges The tragic incident highlights a prevalent issue of child abuse and neglect in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least one in seven children in the country has experienced abuse or neglect in the past year. Shockingly, the CDC acknowledges that these figures are likely underestimates due to unreported cases. In 2020 alone, 1,750 children lost their lives in the United States as a result of abuse and neglect. Trend of child neglect rises Disturbingly, similar cases of parental neglect leading to child fatalities have been reported in recent times. Earlier this year, in Artesia, New Mexico, a mother named Alexee J. Trevizo was arrested for first-degree murder after her newborn baby's body was discovered in a hospital trash can. Trevizo had visited the emergency room in January, complaining of back pain, only to learn of her pregnancy. The Office of the Medical Investigator (OMI) determined the death of the infant to be a homicide on March 28, 2023. Also watch | PM Modi's state visit to the US: A flurry of deals on AI and defence As child neglect cases continue to emerge, there is an urgent need for society to address and prevent such tragedies, ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable children. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ohio mom's vacation negligence ends in tragedy: Toddler dies after being left home alone

US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he arrives at the White House for the State dinner.

PM Modi in US | PM Modi: There can be no ifs and buts in dealing with terrorism

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PM Modi in US: PM Modi delivers address to joint sitting of Congress

The dishes served at the state dinner for Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be a specially designed vegetarian supper when he visits the White House. He is welcomed by President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden. White House officials are going all out for this event. Even the decorations have been altered to combine elements of American and Indian culture for the events that will take place on the south lawn of the White House.

PM Modi in US: Bilateral talks, speech at Congress and a lavish state dinner

Multnomah, a county in the northwestern state of Oregon, filed a lawsuit against prominent oil companies over the 'Heat Dome' disaster in 2021. The county is seeking&nbsp;$51 billion over one of the deadliest weather-related disasters in the United States.&nbsp;

Multnomah encompasses Portland, the state's most populous city. It blamed the oil companies for misleading the public about the impact of carbon pollution from using their products. They claimed that it was a leading factor in aggravating the heat wave.

The county asked for $50 billion in current damages from the Heat Dome and $1.5 billion for future damages as excessive heat, drought, wildfires, and smoky skies become more common. The county also asked for a much higher amount for a long-term abatement fund to upgrade its infrastructure.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/technology/over-100000-hacked-chatgpt-accounts-sold-on-dark-web-india-pak-top-the-list-607764">Over 100,000 hacked ChatGPT accounts sold on dark web, India, Pak top the list</a>

"This is an event that is directly attributed to the impacts that we are seeing on our climate because of the actions of fossil fuel companies and their agencies that have been pressing for decades to deny climate science," County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson told AFP.&nbsp;

Multnomah County has named several oil firms in their lawsuit, including ExxonMobil, Shell, Chevron, and BP. It has&nbsp;also mentioned the American Petroleum Institute, Western States Petroleum Association and McKinsey &amp; Company. In 2021, the county recorded high temperatures causing the death of 69 people, extensive property damage, and significant expenditure of taxpayer money.

The record-breaking heat wave caused a maximum temperature of 49.6 degree&nbsp;Celsius in Lytton, British Columbia and baked the western United States and Canada. Around 1,400 people died during the heat wave. According to an analysis by the World Weather Attribution group, the phenomenon was impossible without human-caused climate change.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;At least four terrorists killed in an encounter in J&amp;K's Kupwara

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As per the lawsuit, the Heat Dome was a "direct and foreseeable consequence" of the decision of oil companies to sell too many products over the last six decades.&nbsp;

An ExxonMobil spokesperson has responded to the lawsuit and said, "Suits like these continue to waste time, resources, and do nothing to address climate change." He added, "This action has no impact on our intention to invest billions of dollars to leading the way in a thoughtful energy transition that takes the world to net zero carbon emissions."

As per the reports by Bangkok Post, Chevron lawyers called such lawsuits "counterproductive distractions from advancing international policy solutions". 
 
"The federal Constitution bars these novel, baseless claims that target one industry and group of companies engaged in lawful activity that provides tremendous benefits to society," the Chevron counsel stated.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Multnomah, a county in the northwestern state of Oregon, filed a lawsuit against prominent oil companies over the 'Heat Dome' disaster in 2021. The county is seeking $51 billion over one of the deadliest weather-related disasters in the United States.

Multnomah, a county in the northwestern state of Oregon, filed a lawsuit against prominent oil companies over the 'Heat Dome' disaster in 2021. The county is seeking $51 billion over one of the deadliest weather-related disasters in the United States. Multnomah encompasses Portland, the state's most populous city. It blamed the oil companies for misleading the public about the impact of carbon pollution from using their products. They claimed that it was a leading factor in aggravating the heat wave. The county asked for $50 billion in current damages from the Heat Dome and $1.5 billion for future damages as excessive heat, drought, wildfires, and smoky skies become more common. The county also asked for a much higher amount for a long-term abatement fund to upgrade its infrastructure. ALSO READ | Over 100,000 hacked ChatGPT accounts sold on dark web, India, Pak top the list "This is an event that is directly attributed to the impacts that we are seeing on our climate because of the actions of fossil fuel companies and their agencies that have been pressing for decades to deny climate science," County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson told AFP. Multnomah County has named several oil firms in their lawsuit, including ExxonMobil, Shell, Chevron, and BP. It has also mentioned the American Petroleum Institute, Western States Petroleum Association and McKinsey & Company. In 2021, the county recorded high temperatures causing the death of 69 people, extensive property damage, and significant expenditure of taxpayer money. The record-breaking heat wave caused a maximum temperature of 49.6 degree Celsius in Lytton, British Columbia and baked the western United States and Canada. Around 1,400 people died during the heat wave. According to an analysis by the World Weather Attribution group, the phenomenon was impossible without human-caused climate change. WATCH | At least four terrorists killed in an encounter in J&K's Kupwara As per the lawsuit, the Heat Dome was a "direct and foreseeable consequence" of the decision of oil companies to sell too many products over the last six decades. An ExxonMobil spokesperson has responded to the lawsuit and said, "Suits like these continue to waste time, resources, and do nothing to address climate change." He added, "This action has no impact on our intention to invest billions of dollars to leading the way in a thoughtful energy transition that takes the world to net zero carbon emissions." As per the reports by Bangkok Post, Chevron lawyers called such lawsuits "counterproductive distractions from advancing international policy solutions". "The federal Constitution bars these novel, baseless claims that target one industry and group of companies engaged in lawful activity that provides tremendous benefits to society," the Chevron counsel stated. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: Multnomah County sues fuel companies for $51 billion over 'Heat Dome' disaster

Former Congressman of the US state of Texas, Will Hurd,&nbsp;on Thursday (June 22) announced that he is running for the upcoming presidential elections. Hurd, a Republican and one-time Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) officer, has been a fierce critic of Donald Trump.

As per media reports, Hurd would also become the first Texan with experience in elective office to enter the Republican primary and is hoping to be a more moderate alternative to the Republican primary field’s early front-runners. 'Hurd for America'&nbsp;submitted a candidacy filing with the Federal Election Commission, on Thursday.&nbsp;

<h2>Hurd announces his White House bid</h2>

The Texas lawmaker made the announcement on CBS Mornings where he made an appearance and said, “This morning I filed to be the Republican nominee for president of the United States.” The 45-year-old, who was the first elected to serve Texas’s 23rd Congressional District in 2014, has now entered the US presidential race with 11 other Republican candidates.&nbsp;

During the interview with CBS, Hurd said that he decided to run after he and his wife realised that “we live in complicated times".&nbsp;The Texas Republican also said issues related to education with low scores in maths, science and reading for students were also a factor in his decision, reported CBS.&nbsp;

In a video announcing his bid for the White House, Hurd said, “Our enemies plot, create chaos, and threaten the American Dream. At home, illegal immigration and fentanyl stream into our country. Inflation, still out of control. Crime and homelessness growing in our cities.”

He added, “President Biden can’t solve these problems — or won’t. And if we nominate a lawless, selfish, failed politician like Donald Trump — who lost the House, the Senate, and the White House — we all know Joe Biden will win again.”&nbsp;

Notably, while Hurd is a critic of Trump, he is also not a fan of Biden.&nbsp;Earlier this year, in an interview, he said that another election with the former and incumbent US presidents would be “the rematch from hell”.&nbsp;

Unlike most people from his party, Hurd joins former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson in his willingness to criticise Trump.&nbsp;

The former president continues to be a popular figure among GOP voters with the latest poll by CBS showing that he leads the crowded field of 11 with 62 per cent support among likely Republican primary voters.&nbsp;

Speaking about his other 2024 Republican contenders, during the interview, Hurd also said, “I’m not satisfied with the field as it stands right now. No one is taking on Trump effectively, or presenting a vision for the future.” Furthermore, the former Texas lawmaker also said that he believes the “Republican Party can be the party that talks about the future, not the past.”&nbsp;

<h2>Will Hurd: From politician, CIA officer to the White House?</h2>

The 45-year-old was first elected to serve Texas’s 23rd Congressional District nearly a decade ago. He represented the state of Texas in Congress between 2015 and 2021, becoming the chamber’s only Black Republican during his final two years in office. Born and raised in San Antonio Texas, Hurd is a child of a White mother and a Black father.

Hurd graduated from Texas A&amp;M University with a degree in computer science in 2000 after which he immediately joined the US intelligence agency CIA. Hurd reportedly served as an undercover CIA officer in the Middle East and South Asia as well as on the House Intelligence Committee.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The self-described “dark horse” candidate has been viewed as a moderate on a number of issues. In 2017, he voted against a Republican-led effort to repeal the nation’s health care law, enacted under former US President Barack Obama. 
 
He was also the only Republican in the House from a border district and called the southern “border crisis” a “myth,” while opposing Trump's border wall and supporting citizenship for young undocumented immigrants under the DREAMers programme.&nbsp;

In 2020, Hurd chose not to seek reelection to the House to “pursue opportunities outside the halls of Congress to solve problems at the nexus between technology and national security.” Notably, most of Hurd’s career has been focused on cybersecurity issues. 
 
However, in 2019, he was reportedly removed as a&nbsp;keynote speaker at a&nbsp;cybersecurity conference because of his past support for Republican-led legislation&nbsp;on&nbsp;abortion restrictions and&nbsp;a bill which would provide financial&nbsp;support for&nbsp;women wanting to pursue&nbsp;science, technology, engineering and maths fields.&nbsp;

Since leaving Congress in 2019, he also worked&nbsp;as a managing director at Allen &amp; Company, served as a board member for OpenAI, as well as&nbsp;trustee of the German Marshall Fund, according to Hurd website.&nbsp;

Aside from Trump, the other Republicans who have announced their bid for the White House include – Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, former Vice President Mike Pence, Senator Tim Scott (South Carolina), former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, Indian-American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, radio host Larry Elder and Miami Mayor Francis Suarez.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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Former Congressman of the US state of Texas, Will Hurd, on Thursday (June 22) announced that he is running for the upcoming presidential elections. Hurd, a Republican and one-time Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) officer, has been a fierce critic of Donald Trump.

Former Congressman of the US state of Texas, Will Hurd, on Thursday (June 22) announced that he is running for the upcoming presidential elections. Hurd, a Republican and one-time Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) officer, has been a fierce critic of Donald Trump. As per media reports, Hurd would also become the first Texan with experience in elective office to enter the Republican primary and is hoping to be a more moderate alternative to the Republican primary field’s early front-runners. 'Hurd for America' submitted a candidacy filing with the Federal Election Commission, on Thursday. Hurd announces his White House bid The Texas lawmaker made the announcement on CBS Mornings where he made an appearance and said, “This morning I filed to be the Republican nominee for president of the United States.” The 45-year-old, who was the first elected to serve Texas’s 23rd Congressional District in 2014, has now entered the US presidential race with 11 other Republican candidates. During the interview with CBS, Hurd said that he decided to run after he and his wife realised that “we live in complicated times". The Texas Republican also said issues related to education with low scores in maths, science and reading for students were also a factor in his decision, reported CBS. In a video announcing his bid for the White House, Hurd said, “Our enemies plot, create chaos, and threaten the American Dream. At home, illegal immigration and fentanyl stream into our country. Inflation, still out of control. Crime and homelessness growing in our cities.” He added, “President Biden can’t solve these problems — or won’t. And if we nominate a lawless, selfish, failed politician like Donald Trump — who lost the House, the Senate, and the White House — we all know Joe Biden will win again.” Notably, while Hurd is a critic of Trump, he is also not a fan of Biden. Earlier this year, in an interview, he said that another election with the former and incumbent US presidents would be “the rematch from hell”. Unlike most people from his party, Hurd joins former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson in his willingness to criticise Trump. The former president continues to be a popular figure among GOP voters with the latest poll by CBS showing that he leads the crowded field of 11 with 62 per cent support among likely Republican primary voters. Speaking about his other 2024 Republican contenders, during the interview, Hurd also said, “I’m not satisfied with the field as it stands right now. No one is taking on Trump effectively, or presenting a vision for the future.” Furthermore, the former Texas lawmaker also said that he believes the “Republican Party can be the party that talks about the future, not the past.” Will Hurd: From politician, CIA officer to the White House? The 45-year-old was first elected to serve Texas’s 23rd Congressional District nearly a decade ago. He represented the state of Texas in Congress between 2015 and 2021, becoming the chamber’s only Black Republican during his final two years in office. Born and raised in San Antonio Texas, Hurd is a child of a White mother and a Black father. Hurd graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in computer science in 2000 after which he immediately joined the US intelligence agency CIA. Hurd reportedly served as an undercover CIA officer in the Middle East and South Asia as well as on the House Intelligence Committee. The self-described “dark horse” candidate has been viewed as a moderate on a number of issues. In 2017, he voted against a Republican-led effort to repeal the nation’s health care law, enacted under former US President Barack Obama. He was also the only Republican in the House from a border district and called the southern “border crisis” a “myth,” while opposing Trump's border wall and supporting citizenship for young undocumented immigrants under the DREAMers programme. In 2020, Hurd chose not to seek reelection to the House to “pursue opportunities outside the halls of Congress to solve problems at the nexus between technology and national security.” Notably, most of Hurd’s career has been focused on cybersecurity issues. However, in 2019, he was reportedly removed as a keynote speaker at a cybersecurity conference because of his past support for Republican-led legislation on abortion restrictions and a bill which would provide financial support for women wanting to pursue science, technology, engineering and maths fields. Since leaving Congress in 2019, he also worked as a managing director at Allen & Company, served as a board member for OpenAI, as well as trustee of the German Marshall Fund, according to Hurd website. Aside from Trump, the other Republicans who have announced their bid for the White House include – Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, former Vice President Mike Pence, Senator Tim Scott (South Carolina), former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, Indian-American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, radio host Larry Elder and Miami Mayor Francis Suarez. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | Who is Will Hurd? Ex-CIA officer, Former Texas lawmaker announces 2024 US presidential bid

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