The COVID-19 mask mandates for public transit enforced by the Joe Biden administration were struck down by a US Judge on Monday, saying that these mask mandates exceed the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) statutory authority.

CDC has extended the regulation of mask mandates on flights, trains, buses, taxis or any other mode of transportation until May 3, due to an increase in the number of covid cases.

This regulation was originally issued on February 3, 2021 by the CDC shortly after President Biden took office. The mandate has been criticised by US airlines and number of republican senators, who have called for its end.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-rejects-biden-administrations-mask-mandate-for-public-transport-472024">US judge rejects Biden administration's mask mandate for public transport</a>

Following this court's ruling, United Airlines removed the mask mandates from domestic flights and select international flights, depending on the rules of the destination country.

Soon United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines and Alaska Airlines followed suit, making masks optional for employees and passengers on domestic and international flights.

However,&nbsp;they along with United Airlines have&nbsp;warned that the travellers would still have to be subjected to local mask restrictions&nbsp;when they arrive&nbsp;at their respective destinations.

As a result of the court's decision, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which oversees airport security, has also decided not to implement guidelines "requiring mask use on public transportation and transportation hubs at this time," according to an administration official.

Watch |&nbsp;US judge strikes down CDC mask mandate amid Covid-19 surge

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According to Alaska Airlines, this reversal of the mask mandates, however, did not invalidate any passenger bans made while the measure was till on. Customers who were already excluded for failing to comply with mask rule will be continued to be barred from the airline.

"We will have some guests whose behaviour was particularly egregious who will remain banned, even after the mask policy is rescinded," said the airline.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ba2-covid-variant-driving-new-infections-in-some-parts-of-us-471264">BA.2 Covid variant driving new infections in some parts of US</a>

This comes as officials in some parts of the United States are still reporting a new surge in COVID-19 infections which is a matter of concern.

Last week the country recorded at least 126 new cases per 10,000 persons, more than twice the rate from a month earlier.

(with input from agencies)US

The COVID-19 mask mandates for public transit enforced by the Joe Biden administration were struck down by a US Judge on Monday, saying that these mask mandates exceed the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) statutory authority.

The COVID-19 mask mandates for public transit enforced by the Joe Biden administration were struck down by a US Judge on Monday, saying that these mask mandates exceed the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) statutory authority. CDC has extended the regulation of mask mandates on flights, trains, buses, taxis or any other mode of transportation until May 3, due to an increase in the number of covid cases. This regulation was originally issued on February 3, 2021 by the CDC shortly after President Biden took office. The mandate has been criticised by US airlines and number of republican senators, who have called for its end. Also read | US judge rejects Biden administration's mask mandate for public transport Following this court's ruling, United Airlines removed the mask mandates from domestic flights and select international flights, depending on the rules of the destination country. Soon United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines and Alaska Airlines followed suit, making masks optional for employees and passengers on domestic and international flights. However, they along with United Airlines have warned that the travellers would still have to be subjected to local mask restrictions when they arrive at their respective destinations. As a result of the court's decision, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which oversees airport security, has also decided not to implement guidelines "requiring mask use on public transportation and transportation hubs at this time," according to an administration official. Watch | US judge strikes down CDC mask mandate amid Covid-19 surge According to Alaska Airlines, this reversal of the mask mandates, however, did not invalidate any passenger bans made while the measure was till on. Customers who were already excluded for failing to comply with mask rule will be continued to be barred from the airline. "We will have some guests whose behaviour was particularly egregious who will remain banned, even after the mask policy is rescinded," said the airline. Also read | BA.2 Covid variant driving new infections in some parts of US This comes as officials in some parts of the United States are still reporting a new surge in COVID-19 infections which is a matter of concern. Last week the country recorded at least 126 new cases per 10,000 persons, more than twice the rate from a month earlier. (with input from agencies)US

US airlines announce plan to drop mask mandates

Median pay for top US CEOs rose 31% last year to a record $20 million, a new study found, surging after a slight decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, as companies showered leaders with stock awards and cash bonuses.

US executives' pay soars 31% after a slight covid era decline

A global summit to chart an end to the Covid-19 crisis and plan for future upheavals will occur May 12, the White House said Monday, even as President Joe Biden struggles to get vital pandemic funding from Congress.

The virtual gathering will be co-chaired by the United States, along with current G7 president Germany, G20 president Indonesia, African Union chair Senegal, and Belize, the current chair of the CARICOM Caribbean grouping.

"The summit will redouble our collective efforts to end the acute phase of the Covid-19 pandemic and prepare for future health threats," the countries said in a joint statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-vignettes-covid-cases-are-soaring-in-china-so-is-its-inflation-471872">Chinese vignettes | Covid cases are soaring in China, so is its inflation</a>

This will be the second global huddle on the pandemic, which has killed more than six million people and triggered profound disruption to leading economies and trading patterns in the two years since it began to spread.

Biden hosted a similar summit last September, at which he urged partners to surge vaccines and ensure that 70 per cent of every country has been vaccinated by September this year.

Although death rates are plummeting world wide, the virus continues to spread, preventing many leading countries from fully lifting restrictions, while Shanghai in China is in the midst of a draconian lockdown.

Summit hosts appealed for maintaining the sense of urgency.

"In advance of the May 12 summit, we are calling on world leaders, members of civil society, non-governmental organizations, philanthropists, and the private sector to make new commitments and bring solutions to vaccinate the world, save lives now, and build better health security -- for everyone, everywhere," the joint statement said.

"The emergence and spread of new variants, like Omicron, have reinforced the need for a strategy aimed at controlling Covid-19 worldwide," it said.

Watch |&nbsp;Shanghai reports first covid deaths since start of covid-19 lockdown

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And while the latest variants are less lethal, the summit statement stressed there must be a focus on stopping similar future catastrophes from taking the world by surprise.

"We know we must prepare now to build, sustain, and finance the global capacity we need, not only for emerging Covid-19 variants, but also future health crises," the statement said.

Biden goals face headwinds

Biden took office in 2021 promising to overcome the pandemic at home but also putting a heavy accent on efforts to vaccinate poor areas of the world.&nbsp;

The United States has pledged to deliver at least 1.1 billion Covid-19 vaccine doses&nbsp;for global use before 2023 and has so far shipped around half of that.

However, Biden's ambition to make the United States an "arsenal for vaccines" similar to US leadership in World War II now faces political headwinds.

A package ensuring $10 billion in continued funding for the domestic Covid response has yet to be passed by Congress, while there is no agreement at all on more funding for vaccine donations abroad.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-europe-uk-report-severe-cases-of-hepatitis-among-children-471770">US, Europe, UK report severe cases of hepatitis among children</a>

"It's vital Congress acts now so the US can continue our momentum in the international effort to get shots in arms in every part of the world, no matter how remote, and to prevent the spread of the next Covid variant with our international allies and partners," a senior administration official told AFP.

Also muddying the waters is the war in Ukraine, which is sapping diplomatic attention in the world's most powerful countries. A source familiar with the issue told AFP that nevertheless the pandemic response remains seen as fundamentally important.

A global summit to chart an end to the Covid-19 crisis and plan for future upheavals will occur May 12, the White House said Monday, even as President Joe Biden struggles to get vital pandemic funding from Congress.

A global summit to chart an end to the Covid-19 crisis and plan for future upheavals will occur May 12, the White House said Monday, even as President Joe Biden struggles to get vital pandemic funding from Congress. The virtual gathering will be co-chaired by the United States, along with current G7 president Germany, G20 president Indonesia, African Union chair Senegal, and Belize, the current chair of the CARICOM Caribbean grouping. "The summit will redouble our collective efforts to end the acute phase of the Covid-19 pandemic and prepare for future health threats," the countries said in a joint statement. Also read | Chinese vignettes | Covid cases are soaring in China, so is its inflation This will be the second global huddle on the pandemic, which has killed more than six million people and triggered profound disruption to leading economies and trading patterns in the two years since it began to spread. Biden hosted a similar summit last September, at which he urged partners to surge vaccines and ensure that 70 per cent of every country has been vaccinated by September this year. Although death rates are plummeting world wide, the virus continues to spread, preventing many leading countries from fully lifting restrictions, while Shanghai in China is in the midst of a draconian lockdown. Summit hosts appealed for maintaining the sense of urgency. "In advance of the May 12 summit, we are calling on world leaders, members of civil society, non-governmental organizations, philanthropists, and the private sector to make new commitments and bring solutions to vaccinate the world, save lives now, and build better health security -- for everyone, everywhere," the joint statement said. "The emergence and spread of new variants, like Omicron, have reinforced the need for a strategy aimed at controlling Covid-19 worldwide," it said. Watch | Shanghai reports first covid deaths since start of covid-19 lockdown And while the latest variants are less lethal, the summit statement stressed there must be a focus on stopping similar future catastrophes from taking the world by surprise. "We know we must prepare now to build, sustain, and finance the global capacity we need, not only for emerging Covid-19 variants, but also future health crises," the statement said. Biden goals face headwinds Biden took office in 2021 promising to overcome the pandemic at home but also putting a heavy accent on efforts to vaccinate poor areas of the world. The United States has pledged to deliver at least 1.1 billion Covid-19 vaccine doses for global use before 2023 and has so far shipped around half of that. However, Biden's ambition to make the United States an "arsenal for vaccines" similar to US leadership in World War II now faces political headwinds. A package ensuring $10 billion in continued funding for the domestic Covid response has yet to be passed by Congress, while there is no agreement at all on more funding for vaccine donations abroad. Also read | US, Europe, UK report severe cases of hepatitis among children "It's vital Congress acts now so the US can continue our momentum in the international effort to get shots in arms in every part of the world, no matter how remote, and to prevent the spread of the next Covid variant with our international allies and partners," a senior administration official told AFP. Also muddying the waters is the war in Ukraine, which is sapping diplomatic attention in the world's most powerful countries. A source familiar with the issue told AFP that nevertheless the pandemic response remains seen as fundamentally important.

United States announces global covid summit May 12

The festive season brings a lot of cheer, happiness and prosperity for everyone - even the animals! This community tradition has a way to bless your cuddlesome cute critters.

Easter blessings for the pets!

Cruise ships on a key West Island in Florida face the heat from the local residents. Residents say cruises affect the environment.

Key West Island in Florida faces dispute over cruise ships, residents say cruises affect environment

In yet another shooting incident in the US, two minors were killed and nine other people were injured on Sunday. &nbsp;

The firing took place at around 12:30 am during a house party in Pittsburgh, the police said in a news release. &nbsp;

In it, there were over 200 people. Many of them were underage. The party was being held at a short-term rental property, Pittsburgh police said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-matter-of-concern-joe-bidens-approval-ratings-decline-among-gen-z-and-millennials-471609" hreflang="en">Matter of concern? Decline in Biden's approval rating among Gen Z, millennials</a>

Around 11 people were being treated at the hospital for gunshot wounds. Out of them, two male victims have already died, cops said. &nbsp;

Several others were injured while trying to flee. Two people have also suffered broken bones after jumping out of the windows of the building, the authorities said. &nbsp;

Around 50 rounds were fired inside the building and several more shots outside it, the police said. &nbsp;

At the scene, shell casings of rifles and pistols were found, Pittsburgh police commander John Fisher told WTAE-TV.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;US witnesses rise in illegal migration, arrests 210,000 migrants at Mexico border

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"You have alcohol, you have underage people here and you have guns that's a deadly combination at any type of an event, and the end result is it's a tragedy," Fisher told WPXI-TV. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The information about any arrests or suspects in the case was not immediately released by the police officials. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In yet another shooting incident in the US, two minors were killed and nine other people were injured on Sunday. The firing took place at around 12:30 am during a house party in Pittsburgh, the police said in a news release.

In yet another shooting incident in the US, two minors were killed and nine other people were injured on Sunday. The firing took place at around 12:30 am during a house party in Pittsburgh, the police said in a news release. In it, there were over 200 people. Many of them were underage. The party was being held at a short-term rental property, Pittsburgh police said. Also Read: Matter of concern? Decline in Biden's approval rating among Gen Z, millennials Around 11 people were being treated at the hospital for gunshot wounds. Out of them, two male victims have already died, cops said. Several others were injured while trying to flee. Two people have also suffered broken bones after jumping out of the windows of the building, the authorities said. Around 50 rounds were fired inside the building and several more shots outside it, the police said. At the scene, shell casings of rifles and pistols were found, Pittsburgh police commander John Fisher told WTAE-TV. Watch: US witnesses rise in illegal migration, arrests 210,000 migrants at Mexico border × "You have alcohol, you have underage people here and you have guns that's a deadly combination at any type of an event, and the end result is it's a tragedy," Fisher told WPXI-TV. The information about any arrests or suspects in the case was not immediately released by the police officials. (With inputs from agencies)

In a house party shooting in US, two minors killed, nine injured

US border authorities have made a record number of arrests, and over 210,000 migrants have been put behind bars. This is the highest monthly tally in two decades. Joe Biden's good intentions have backfired because many people believe that Biden's easing has prompted more illegal migrations.

US witnesses rise in illegal migration, arrests 210,000 migrants at Mexico border

Democrats have raised concern over Biden's approval ratings as Gen Z lost confidence in Biden's administration. Biden's approval ratings are at the lowest since January 2021.

US President Joe Biden's approval ratings fall to 42%, loses support of Gen Z

In today’s world, internet has become a necessity to live life. But as per a recent survey in the US, more than half of the respondents said that they want to delete themselves from the internet if possible. &nbsp;

In the new study conducted by NordVPN through market research firm Propeller Insights, more than 55 per cent of the Americans, who responded to the survey, made the remark, said media reports. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-gaffe-prone-united-states-president-joe-biden-looks-lost-on-stage-attracts-sharp-criticism-471313" hreflang="en">Gaffe-prone Joe Biden looks lost on stage, attracts sharp criticism</a>

The study was conducted in December last year. Around 1,002 US consumers, who were aged 18 and over, were included in it. &nbsp;

Over the need to delete themselves from the internet, around 47 per cent said they don’t trust it. Another 46 per cent said they have no reason to have their names on the internet. And 42 per cent said that they fear that they may get hacked. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Only 18 per cent of respondents said they wish there wasn’t any internet. Just eight per cent said they don’t use it at all. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine's Neptune missile lead to wreckage of Russian warship 'Moskva': US

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While sharing what kind of information they would like to vanish from internet, around 6 in 10 Americans who were surveyed want personal financial information to be removed permanently. &nbsp;

Around 26% said embarrassing moments, another 26% said old dating or social media profiles, 24% said unflattering photos and videos. And finally, 23% wanted previous employment history to be wiped from the web. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In today’s world, internet has become a necessity to live life. But as per a recent survey in the US, more than half of the respondents said that they want to delete themselves from the internet if possible.

In today’s world, internet has become a necessity to live life. But as per a recent survey in the US, more than half of the respondents said that they want to delete themselves from the internet if possible. In the new study conducted by NordVPN through market research firm Propeller Insights, more than 55 per cent of the Americans, who responded to the survey, made the remark, said media reports. Also Read: Gaffe-prone Joe Biden looks lost on stage, attracts sharp criticism The study was conducted in December last year. Around 1,002 US consumers, who were aged 18 and over, were included in it. Over the need to delete themselves from the internet, around 47 per cent said they don’t trust it. Another 46 per cent said they have no reason to have their names on the internet. And 42 per cent said that they fear that they may get hacked. Only 18 per cent of respondents said they wish there wasn’t any internet. Just eight per cent said they don’t use it at all. Watch: Ukraine's Neptune missile lead to wreckage of Russian warship 'Moskva': US × While sharing what kind of information they would like to vanish from internet, around 6 in 10 Americans who were surveyed want personal financial information to be removed permanently. Around 26% said embarrassing moments, another 26% said old dating or social media profiles, 24% said unflattering photos and videos. And finally, 23% wanted previous employment history to be wiped from the web. (With inputs from agencies)

In new survey in US, over 55% respondents want to vanish from internet, if possible  

Russia's lead warship 'Moskva' sank in the Black Sea after a fire and explosion claimed by Ukraine. Russian news agency said that the ship sank as it was being towed to port in stormy weather. US has backed Ukraine's claim that its missile lead to wreckage of Russian warship

Ukraine's Neptune missile lead to wreckage of Russian warship 'Moskva': US

Recently, US President Joe Biden announced $800 mn worth of military aid to Ukraine. Russia sent a diplomatic note to the United States to stop arming Ukraine. To get more details, we're joined by Fred Weir, Russian Affairs Expert.

Russia warns US to stop arming Ukraine, sends formal letter warning

In the US, a joint alert has been issued by several government agencies on a malicious cyber tool which has been created by unknown people. &nbsp;&nbsp;

What makes it highly crucial is that it is capable of gaining 'full system access' to multiple industrial control systems. &nbsp;

The public warning was declared by the FBI, the energy and homeland security departments and National Security Agency on Wednesday. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-looks-to-solidify-relationship-with-twitter-offers-to-buy-for-4139-billion-470976">Musk looks to 'solidify relationship' with Twitter, offers to buy for $41 bn</a>

They did not give details about how they found out about it. The tools have also been called "exceptionally rare and dangerous”. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"We're actually one step ahead of the adversary. None of us want them to understand where they screwed up," said Robert M Lee of Dragos, who is CEO of another government partner, while telling AP about why the government would not explain how the malware was discovered. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;US officials urge Joe Biden to rebalance ties with Saudi Arabia

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The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency had published the alert.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Lee told AP that the malware was "designed to be a framework to go after lots of different types of industries and be leveraged multiple times. Based on the configuration of it, the initial targets would be LNG and electricity in North America." &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In the US, a joint alert has been issued by several government agencies on a malicious cyber tool which has been created by unknown people. What makes it highly crucial is that it is capable of gaining 'full system access' to multiple industrial control systems.

In the US, a joint alert has been issued by several government agencies on a malicious cyber tool which has been created by unknown people. What makes it highly crucial is that it is capable of gaining 'full system access' to multiple industrial control systems. The public warning was declared by the FBI, the energy and homeland security departments and National Security Agency on Wednesday. Also Read: Musk looks to 'solidify relationship' with Twitter, offers to buy for $41 bn They did not give details about how they found out about it. The tools have also been called "exceptionally rare and dangerous”. "We're actually one step ahead of the adversary. None of us want them to understand where they screwed up," said Robert M Lee of Dragos, who is CEO of another government partner, while telling AP about why the government would not explain how the malware was discovered. Watch: US officials urge Joe Biden to rebalance ties with Saudi Arabia × The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency had published the alert. Lee told AP that the malware was "designed to be a framework to go after lots of different types of industries and be leveraged multiple times. Based on the configuration of it, the initial targets would be LNG and electricity in North America." (With inputs from agencies)

US discovers malware capable of gaining access to industrial control systems, issues alert

62 year old Frank James accused of shooting 10 people on the Brooklyn subway has been remanded by the US Federal Court. US District Court in Brooklyn has also ordered that he undergo a psychiatric evaluation

Brooklyn subway shooting mass firing case: Federal Court remands Frank James to custody

US Jury convicted former British citizen El Shafee Elsheikh for his role in notorious Islamic state hostage taking plot that led to beheading of American journalists and aid workers

ISIS 'Beatles' cell member convicted in US, guilty of killing four American hostages

U.S. lectured India on human rights, and Russia on genocide. Back in America, a 26-year-old black man was shot in the head by a white police officer, he died. Incidents like these happen in U.S. every other day. When will the U.S. talk about them?

Gravitas: Why is U.S. not talking about human rights violations at home?

US lectures the world on human rights. But it has failed to check the rise in hate crimes at home. It has also failed to control guns. In New York, a man opened fire in a subway, on the same day 2 Sikhs were attacked with a rod. Palki Sharma raises important questions.

Gravitas: Human Rights: Time for America to look within?

The police chief has extended condolences to Lyoya's family and ordered a probe into the Patrick Lyoya shooting case. Police have released the video of the incident and the chief assures of a thorough probe.

United States: Protests over shooting of Patrick Lyoya

Glen Canyon Dam on the Colorado River typically provides enough hydroelectric energy to power up hundreds of thousands of homes in the Western United States. The dam is now threatened by the drought in Southwestern US.

Drought threatens hydropower at Glen Canyon Dam in Southwestern US

Saudi state tv aired an episode that openly ridiculed US president Joe Biden and that program goes viral on the internet. In the comedy sketch, Biden's character appeared sleepy and forgetful.

Saudi state TV airs episode that openly ridicules Joe Biden

Nearly half of all recorded injuries in US warehouses last year occurred at&nbsp;Amazon, according to a report released Tuesday by a coalition of unions.

The e-commerce giant has boomed during the pandemic with soaring home delivery demand, but has also faced criticism over workers' conditions and its labor practices.&nbsp;

"Amazon&nbsp;employed one-third of all warehouse workers in the US, but it was responsible for nearly one-half (49 percent) of all injuries in the warehouse industry," according to the report by the Strategic Organizing Center (SOC).

The SOC report said US&nbsp;Amazon&nbsp;workers sustained more than 34,000 "serious injuries" on the job last year, a rate more than twice as high as that at warehouses not owned by the company.

Amazon&nbsp;acknowledged an increase in the number of injuries as tens of thousands of employees joined its workforce, but argued the rate at which its people got hurt had declined.

"Like other companies in the industry, we saw an increase in recordable injuries during this time from 2020 to 2021 as we trained so many new people," the company said.

"However, when you compare 2021 to 2019, our recordable injury rate declined more than 13 percent year over year," it added.

The coalition said it relies on data provided by&nbsp;Amazon&nbsp;to the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration -- the federal agency responsible for preventing workplace injuries.&nbsp;

"After relaxing some of its discipline systems in the first months of the Covid-19 pandemic,&nbsp;Amazon&nbsp;reimplemented its monitoring systems and production pressures in late 2020, and its injury rates rose substantially," the SOC said.&nbsp;

Hiring at&nbsp;Amazon&nbsp;has spiked during the pandemic.

In the United States, the company has gone from some 700 sites in 2020 to more than 900 in 2021, and from more than 200,000 employees in 2017 to over 560,000 in 2021, according to the report.&nbsp;

In June 2021,&nbsp;Amazon&nbsp;changed working conditions, including longer breaks for its workers who prepare, ship and deliver packages.&nbsp;

That decision came after a previous damning SOC report, and an attempt to unionize at an&nbsp;Amazon&nbsp;warehouse in Alabama.&nbsp;That failed, but the campaign exposed what many employees described as the company's intense pace.&nbsp;

"We need a better vision for our employees' success," wrote&nbsp;Amazon&nbsp;founder Jeff Bezos in an annual letter to shareholders in 2020.&nbsp;

"We are going to be Earth's Best Employer and Earth's Safest Place to Work," he promised.&nbsp;

But "in stark contrast to Jeff Bezos' recent pledge... the injury rate at&nbsp;Amazon&nbsp;facilities&nbsp;increased&nbsp;by 20 percent between 2020 and 2021," the SOC said.

Amazon&nbsp;workers in New York have voted to launch the first US union at the e-commerce giant, an underdog upset against a company that has steadfastly opposed organized labor in its massive workforce. &nbsp;

Nearly half of all recorded injuries in US warehouses last year occurred at Amazon, according to a report released Tuesday by a coalition of unions. The e-commerce giant has boomed during the pandemic with soaring home delivery demand, but has also faced criticism over workers' conditions and its labor practices.

Nearly half of all recorded injuries in US warehouses last year occurred at Amazon, according to a report released Tuesday by a coalition of unions. The e-commerce giant has boomed during the pandemic with soaring home delivery demand, but has also faced criticism over workers' conditions and its labor practices. "Amazon employed one-third of all warehouse workers in the US, but it was responsible for nearly one-half (49 percent) of all injuries in the warehouse industry," according to the report by the Strategic Organizing Center (SOC). The SOC report said US Amazon workers sustained more than 34,000 "serious injuries" on the job last year, a rate more than twice as high as that at warehouses not owned by the company. Amazon acknowledged an increase in the number of injuries as tens of thousands of employees joined its workforce, but argued the rate at which its people got hurt had declined. "Like other companies in the industry, we saw an increase in recordable injuries during this time from 2020 to 2021 as we trained so many new people," the company said. "However, when you compare 2021 to 2019, our recordable injury rate declined more than 13 percent year over year," it added. The coalition said it relies on data provided by Amazon to the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration -- the federal agency responsible for preventing workplace injuries. "After relaxing some of its discipline systems in the first months of the Covid-19 pandemic, Amazon reimplemented its monitoring systems and production pressures in late 2020, and its injury rates rose substantially," the SOC said. Hiring at Amazon has spiked during the pandemic. In the United States, the company has gone from some 700 sites in 2020 to more than 900 in 2021, and from more than 200,000 employees in 2017 to over 560,000 in 2021, according to the report. In June 2021, Amazon changed working conditions, including longer breaks for its workers who prepare, ship and deliver packages. That decision came after a previous damning SOC report, and an attempt to unionize at an Amazon warehouse in Alabama. That failed, but the campaign exposed what many employees described as the company's intense pace. "We need a better vision for our employees' success," wrote Amazon founder Jeff Bezos in an annual letter to shareholders in 2020. "We are going to be Earth's Best Employer and Earth's Safest Place to Work," he promised. But "in stark contrast to Jeff Bezos' recent pledge... the injury rate at Amazon facilities increased by 20 percent between 2020 and 2021," the SOC said. Amazon workers in New York have voted to launch the first US union at the e-commerce giant, an underdog upset against a company that has steadfastly opposed organized labor in its massive workforce.

Half of US warehouse injuries in 2021 at Amazon

A report has raised an alarm over a “plot to destroy democracy” in the United States.

The annual report titled "Under Siege: The Plot to Destroy Democracy” has been released by nonpartisan civil rights organisation National Urban League (NUL).

It claims an “insidious and coordinated” effort between lawmakers and extremist groups is currently underway trying to threaten the American democracy, reports The Guardian.

The study calls for “the urgent case for a national mobilisation to protect and defend our most sacred constitutional right”.

NUL notes that four methods are being used to suppress the democratic rights of the people. They are: gerrymandering, voter suppression, misinformation and intimidation.

The report pointed out that in 2021, 20 states sought to redraw the boundaries of constituencies for the Congressional elections by leveraging census data.

It claimed that the new maps were proposed by Republican state lawmakers, adding that it amounted to “modern-day gerrymandering that strips voting power away from communities with Black and brown voters”.

The NUL report further claimed that 34 laws were passed in 19 states between January 1 and December 7, 2021, that sought to dilute the voting powers of the people.

Among the restrictions used for this purpose includes, shortening the window to apply and deliver mail ballots, laws limiting absentee voting lists, restricting assistance in returning a voter’s mail ballot, reducing the availability of mail ballot drop boxes, and increasing barriers for voters with disabilities, the research notes.

“The burden of these laws – strict photo ID requirements, the elimination or restriction of Sunday voting, voting by mail and early voting, and the closing of polling locations – overwhelmingly falls on Black voters,” Marc Morial, president and CEO of NUL,&nbsp;said&nbsp;in the report.

“Since the passage of the Voting Rights Act in 1965, the United States has seen a steady rise in disenfranchisement practices giving one party an edge over the other. But never before has the nation seen such an insidious and coordinated campaign to obliterate the very principle of ‘one person, one vote’ from the political process.”

(With inputs from agencies)

A report has raised an alarm over a “plot to destroy democracy” in the United States. The annual report titled "Under Siege: The Plot to Destroy Democracy” has been released by nonpartisan civil rights organisation National Urban League (NUL).

A report has raised an alarm over a “plot to destroy democracy” in the United States. The annual report titled "Under Siege: The Plot to Destroy Democracy” has been released by nonpartisan civil rights organisation National Urban League (NUL). It claims an “insidious and coordinated” effort between lawmakers and extremist groups is currently underway trying to threaten the American democracy, reports The Guardian. The study calls for “the urgent case for a national mobilisation to protect and defend our most sacred constitutional right”. NUL notes that four methods are being used to suppress the democratic rights of the people. They are: gerrymandering, voter suppression, misinformation and intimidation. The report pointed out that in 2021, 20 states sought to redraw the boundaries of constituencies for the Congressional elections by leveraging census data. It claimed that the new maps were proposed by Republican state lawmakers, adding that it amounted to “modern-day gerrymandering that strips voting power away from communities with Black and brown voters”. The NUL report further claimed that 34 laws were passed in 19 states between January 1 and December 7, 2021, that sought to dilute the voting powers of the people. Among the restrictions used for this purpose includes, shortening the window to apply and deliver mail ballots, laws limiting absentee voting lists, restricting assistance in returning a voter’s mail ballot, reducing the availability of mail ballot drop boxes, and increasing barriers for voters with disabilities, the research notes. “The burden of these laws – strict photo ID requirements, the elimination or restriction of Sunday voting, voting by mail and early voting, and the closing of polling locations – overwhelmingly falls on Black voters,” Marc Morial, president and CEO of NUL, said in the report. “Since the passage of the Voting Rights Act in 1965, the United States has seen a steady rise in disenfranchisement practices giving one party an edge over the other. But never before has the nation seen such an insidious and coordinated campaign to obliterate the very principle of ‘one person, one vote’ from the political process.” (With inputs from agencies)

US report warns about gerrymandering, voter suppression, misinformation and intimidation

The Brooklyn shooting has reignited the gun debate. As per reports, America reported over 45,000 gun deaths in 2020 and around 58% of American adults have experienced gun terror. We're joined by Edward P. Joseph, a Foreign policy analyst from Washington DC to decode the 'epidemic of gun violence'.

America & Guns: Why does Gun terror persist in the United States?

After calling India's response to the Ukraine 'shaky', US now says it will be in New Delhi's own interest to not increase import of Russian oil. India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar says the West should focus on Europe's oil imports instead.

Gravitas: India, U.S. 2+2 dialogues

With the rise in the weapons tests carried out by North Korea, tensions are heightened in the region. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In what could flare it up more, US and Japanese warships have conducted joint naval exercise in the area&nbsp;on Tuesday and Wednesday. &nbsp;

It was led by the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group. For the first time in five years, the US aircraft carrier has taken part in an exercise in waters between Japan and the Korean Peninsula. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-tensions-with-north-us-aircraft-carrier-deploys-off-korean-peninsula-470458" hreflang="en">Amid tensions with North, US aircraft carrier deploys off Korean peninsula</a>

The move seems to have been taken to deter provocation from North Korea. But the show of the military strength by the US and Japan is most likely to attract a sharp reaction from Kim Jong un-led nation. &nbsp;

This comes amid speculation that North Korea is looking to hold another missile or nuclear test later this week. &nbsp;

A joint naval exercise was carried out in the Sea of Japan by the US 7th Fleet and Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Tropical storm Megi wreaks havoc across Philippines

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The ongoing joint exercise is "aimed at strengthening military cooperation between Japan and the United States, and is not keeping in mind a specific country.... We will continue to strengthen deterrence and response capability of the Japan-US Alliance and to do utmost for the defense of our country," Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a tweet, the Japanese navy said, "Our works contribute to the regional peace and stability." &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With the rise in the weapons tests carried out by North Korea, tensions are heightened in the region. In what could flare it up more, US and Japanese warships have conducted joint naval exercise in the area on Tuesday and Wednesday.

With the rise in the weapons tests carried out by North Korea, tensions are heightened in the region. In what could flare it up more, US and Japanese warships have conducted joint naval exercise in the area on Tuesday and Wednesday. It was led by the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group. For the first time in five years, the US aircraft carrier has taken part in an exercise in waters between Japan and the Korean Peninsula. Also Read: Amid tensions with North, US aircraft carrier deploys off Korean peninsula The move seems to have been taken to deter provocation from North Korea. But the show of the military strength by the US and Japan is most likely to attract a sharp reaction from Kim Jong un-led nation. This comes amid speculation that North Korea is looking to hold another missile or nuclear test later this week. A joint naval exercise was carried out in the Sea of Japan by the US 7th Fleet and Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force. Watch: Tropical storm Megi wreaks havoc across Philippines × The ongoing joint exercise is "aimed at strengthening military cooperation between Japan and the United States, and is not keeping in mind a specific country.... We will continue to strengthen deterrence and response capability of the Japan-US Alliance and to do utmost for the defense of our country," Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters. In a tweet, the Japanese navy said, "Our works contribute to the regional peace and stability." (With inputs from agencies)

Tensions may flare up in Koreas as US, Japan navies carry out drills in region

At least 17 people were injured in the New York subway shooting and 5 of them are in critical but stable condition. In the latest update, the New York police department has identified a person of interest. The Brooklyn shooting has reignited the gun debate in the United States.

Gun violence in US: How easy is it to buy a gun in America?

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a virtual meeting with US President Joe Biden to further deepen ties between the both nations ahead of India-US 2+2 ministerial meet.

India-US 2+2 ministerial meeting: Defence & Foreign ministers of India & US to meet

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India-US 2+2 ministerial meeting: Ukraine looms large over 2+2 dialogue

Indian PM Narendra Modi holds virtual talks with US President Joe Biden

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to hold a virtual meeting with US President Joe Biden on Monday (April 11, 2022) to further deepen ties between the both nations.

Modi to hold virtual meeting with Biden ahead of 2+2 dialogue

Many offline retailers are closing their stores across the world as people are now buying online after COVID-19 lockdowns. KMart's name is added to the list as the American retailer will be left with just three stores in the US. Next week, it will happen with the closing of the fourth KMart store in New Jersey

American retailer KMart to close fourth store in the US, loses another site

Ahead of the virtual summit, the White House had hinted that US President Joe Biden will push India to take a stand against Russia over the invasion of Ukraine. India's PM Narendra Modi set the record straight on India's position. Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you a report.

Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: What Modi told Biden

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