<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/explosive-memo-released-as-trump-escalates-fight-over-russia-probe-31626">Trump releases disputed </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/explosive-memo-released-as-trump-escalates-fight-over-russia-probe-31626">memo,</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/explosive-memo-released-as-trump-escalates-fight-over-russia-probe-31626"> escalates fight with FBI</a>

President Donald Trump and his Republican allies in Congress on Friday escalated a campaign against US law enforcement agencies over their probe of Trump&#39;s ties to Russia, releasing a disputed memo that the FBI warned was misleading and inaccurate.

The previously classified document, written by Republicans on the House of Representatives intelligence committee, alleges that the federal probe of potential collusion between Trump&#39;s 2016 presidential campaign and Russia was a product of political bias against Trump at the FBI and Justice Department.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/live-u-19-world-cup-finals-india-vs-australia-31627">U-19 World Cup final: Jonathan Merlo helps Australia recover from early losses</a>

The Under-19 World Cup final is underway, Australia won the toss and opted to bat first against India at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui.

The pitch is more suitable for batting in the first innings and Australians have made a perfect decision but without a doubt, Indian bowling attack is in outstanding form.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-30-shops-gutted-in-major-fire-at-madurai-temple-31631">Over 30 shops gutted in major fire at Madurai temple</a>

Over 30 shops were gutted after a major fire broke out at Madurai&#39;s Meenakshi Amman temple on Friday.

A media outlet quoted a fire and rescue officer as saying that the fire started at a toy shop inside the pillar hall of the temple around 10 pm.

The fire was controlled before it spread to the main temple area, Madurai collector Veera Raghava Rao was quoted as saying by the media outlet. She added that the temple had been re-opened for devotees and that a probe had been launched into the incident.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mehbooba-mufti-indian-army-most-disciplined-force-in-the-world-31629">Mehbooba Mufti: Indian Army &#39;most disciplined&#39; force in the world</a>

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday ruled out revoking the controversial Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act in Kashmir &quot;due to the prevailing situation&quot; and asserted that the Indian Army is the &quot;most disciplined&quot; force in the world.

Mehbooba Mufti said the Army&#39;s footprint in the valley had increased due to the deteriorating security situation.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/spice-girls-say-theyre-getting-back-together-again-31628">Spice Girls say they&#39;re getting back together again</a>

The Spice Girls got back together on Friday for the first time since 2012 and announced plans to explore &quot;incredible new opportunities&quot; in the future.

The British 1990s pop phenomenon -- Victoria Beckham, Melanie Brown, Emma Bunton, Melanie Chisholm and Geri Horner -- reunited at Horner&#39;s house north of London, along with their former manager Simon Fuller.

The best-selling female group ever released photographs of the gathering.

Trump releases disputed memo, escalates fight with FBI President Donald Trump and his Republican allies in Congress on Friday escalated a campaign against US law enforcement agencies over their probe of Trump's ties to Russia, releasing a disputed memo that the FBI warned was misleading and inaccurate. The previously classified document, written by Republicans on the House of Representatives intelligence committee, alleges that the federal probe of potential collusion between Trump's 2016 presidential campaign and Russia was a product of political bias against Trump at the FBI and Justice Department. U-19 World Cup final: Jonathan Merlo helps Australia recover from early losses The Under-19 World Cup final is underway, Australia won the toss and opted to bat first against India at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. The pitch is more suitable for batting in the first innings and Australians have made a perfect decision but without a doubt, Indian bowling attack is in outstanding form. Over 30 shops gutted in major fire at Madurai temple Over 30 shops were gutted after a major fire broke out at Madurai's Meenakshi Amman temple on Friday. A media outlet quoted a fire and rescue officer as saying that the fire started at a toy shop inside the pillar hall of the temple around 10 pm. The fire was controlled before it spread to the main temple area, Madurai collector Veera Raghava Rao was quoted as saying by the media outlet. She added that the temple had been re-opened for devotees and that a probe had been launched into the incident. Mehbooba Mufti: Indian Army 'most disciplined' force in the world Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday ruled out revoking the controversial Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act in Kashmir "due to the prevailing situation" and asserted that the Indian Army is the "most disciplined" force in the world. Mehbooba Mufti said the Army's footprint in the valley had increased due to the deteriorating security situation. Spice Girls say they're getting back together again The Spice Girls got back together on Friday for the first time since 2012 and announced plans to explore "incredible new opportunities" in the future. The British 1990s pop phenomenon -- Victoria Beckham, Melanie Brown, Emma Bunton, Melanie Chisholm and Geri Horner -- reunited at Horner's house north of London, along with their former manager Simon Fuller. The best-selling female group ever released photographs of the gathering.

WION morning news brief, February 3, 2018

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmaavat-row-allahabad-hc-issues-contempt-notice-to-censor-board-chief-prasoon-joshi-over-the-release-of-the-film-29766">Padmaavat</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmaavat-row-allahabad-hc-issues-contempt-notice-to-censor-board-chief-prasoon-joshi-over-the-release-of-the-film-29766">&nbsp;row: Allahabad HC issues contempt notice to CBFC chief Prasoon Joshi over the release of the film</a>

The Allahabad High Court issued a contempt notice to Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chairman Prasoon Joshi on Tuesday over the release of Sanjay Leela Bhansali&#39;s Padmaavat.

The notice was issued after Joshi failed to respond to a representation given by a petitioner seeking a ban on the release of the film because it &quot;promoted&quot; Sati.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-netanyahu-on-a-days-visit-to-gujarat-today-29769">Modi, Netanyahu on a day&#39;s visit to Gujarat today</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and wife Sara &mdash; in his home state Gujarat today. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
The Israeli PM will be the third international leader to be hosted in Ahmedabad in a span of over three years ever since Modi became PM in May 2014. &nbsp;

Both the Prime Ministers will start off the day by paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi at the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad, where they would reach after conducting a roadshow.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-governments-spacex-powered-zuma-spacecraft-may-be-lost-report-29764">US government&#39;s SpaceX-powered Zuma spacecraft may be lost: Report</a>

The fate of Falcon 9 rocket powered by EIon Musk&#39;s SpaceX which blasted into space on Sunday is unknown after US officials refused to confirm if they had lost contact with the military satellite.

US media widely reported this week that the rocket was probably lost even as US spokesmen in the Pentagon declined to comment due to the &quot;classified&quot; nature of the mission.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/brazilian-star-ronaldinho-retires-from-professional-football-at-37-29756">Brazilian star Ronaldinho retires from professional football at 37</a>

Brazilian forward Ronaldinho has retired from professional football at the age of 37, according to his agent and brother Roberto Assis on Tuesday (16th January).

His brother Roberto Assis said in a column for Brazil media outlet O Globo and revealed plans for farewell tribute events following the 2018 World Cup.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kamal-haasan-to-announce-political-partys-name-on-february-21-29755">Kamal Haasan to announce political party&#39;s name on February 21</a>

Kamal Haasan will announce his political party&#39;s name on February 21 at Tamil Nadu&#39;s Ramanathapuram and begin a state-wide tour the same day.

The tour will be held in phases. He will begin the journey from Ramanathapuram -- his hometown -- and later visit people from the districts of Madurai, Dindigul and Sivagangai.

It will mark Haasan&#39;s official entry into politics about which he has been making overtures since last year. 
&nbsp;

Padmaavat row: Allahabad HC issues contempt notice to CBFC chief Prasoon Joshi over the release of the film The Allahabad High Court issued a contempt notice to Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chairman Prasoon Joshi on Tuesday over the release of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Padmaavat. The notice was issued after Joshi failed to respond to a representation given by a petitioner seeking a ban on the release of the film because it "promoted" Sati. Modi, Netanyahu on a day's visit to Gujarat today Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and wife Sara — in his home state Gujarat today. The Israeli PM will be the third international leader to be hosted in Ahmedabad in a span of over three years ever since Modi became PM in May 2014. Both the Prime Ministers will start off the day by paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi at the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad, where they would reach after conducting a roadshow. US government's SpaceX-powered Zuma spacecraft may be lost: Report The fate of Falcon 9 rocket powered by EIon Musk's SpaceX which blasted into space on Sunday is unknown after US officials refused to confirm if they had lost contact with the military satellite. US media widely reported this week that the rocket was probably lost even as US spokesmen in the Pentagon declined to comment due to the "classified" nature of the mission. Brazilian star Ronaldinho retires from professional football at 37 Brazilian forward Ronaldinho has retired from professional football at the age of 37, according to his agent and brother Roberto Assis on Tuesday (16th January). His brother Roberto Assis said in a column for Brazil media outlet O Globo and revealed plans for farewell tribute events following the 2018 World Cup. Kamal Haasan to announce political party's name on February 21 Kamal Haasan will announce his political party's name on February 21 at Tamil Nadu's Ramanathapuram and begin a state-wide tour the same day. The tour will be held in phases. He will begin the journey from Ramanathapuram -- his hometown -- and later visit people from the districts of Madurai, Dindigul and Sivagangai. It will mark Haasan's official entry into politics about which he has been making overtures since last year.

WION news brief, January 17, 2018

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-chiefs-statement-invitation-for-nuclear-encounter-pakistan-29446">Indian Army chief&#39;s statement &#39;invitation for nuclear encounter&#39;: Pakistan</a>

Pakistan foreign minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif on Saturday issued a nuclear threat to India in response to a statement by Indian army chief General Bipin Rawat saying that the force was ready to call Pakistan&#39;s &quot;nuclear bluff&quot; and cross the border to carry out any operation if asked by the government.

The Pakistan foreign minister called the statement of the Indian Army chief as &quot;very irresponsible&quot; on Twitter and said it amounted to an &quot;invitation for a nuclear encounter&quot;. He also said that the army was &quot;welcome to test our resolve&quot;.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/israel-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-to-arrive-in-india-today-29448">Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu to arrive in India today</a>

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be visiting India today, six months after PM Modi paid his first-ever visit to Israel.&nbsp;

Netanyahu will be the second Israeli PM to visit India, the first one being Ariel Sharon, who was hosted by then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in September 2003.

Netanyahu will arrive for his six-day visit in the afternoon and will be accompanied by a 130-member delegation from various sectors including cyber, agriculture and defence. 
 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/six-bodies-recovered-in-pawan-hans-helicopter-crash-29442">Six bodies recovered in Pawan Hans helicopter crash</a>

A Pawan Hans chopper carrying six senior officials and two pilots crashed on the Mumbai coast on Saturday, six bodies have been recovered so far.&nbsp;

Search operations are still on for the one body that is still missing.&nbsp;

&quot;Out of six bodies, five has been identified. The search for one missing is still underway&quot;, a senior police inspector said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-army-jawan-killed-in-unprovoked-firing-along-loc-29444">J&amp;K: Army soldier killed in unprovoked firing along LoC</a>

An army jawan was killed in an unprovoked firing by Pakistan soldiers along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday.&nbsp;

The firing took place in Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Rajouri district around 2 pm and lasted for 15 minutes. The Indian army counter-attacked effectively, media reports said.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bar-council-of-india-cautions-parties-leaders-against-meddling-with-judiciary-29436">Bar Council of India cautions parties, leaders against meddling with judiciary</a>

The Bar Council of India (BCI) Saturday cautioned the political parties and leaders from taking an &quot;undue advantage&quot; of the situation, following a virtual revolt of four senior Supreme Court judges against the chief justice of India (CJI).

It said the four seniormost judges going public with their differences with the CJI had given an opportunity to the political parties and leaders to interfere in the affairs of the judiciary.

Without taking any name, BCI chairperson Manan Kumar Mishra said, &quot;No political party or leader should take an undue advantage of the situation arising out of the press conference of the four senior Supreme Court judges.&quot;

 
&nbsp;

Indian Army chief's statement 'invitation for nuclear encounter': Pakistan Pakistan foreign minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif on Saturday issued a nuclear threat to India in response to a statement by Indian army chief General Bipin Rawat saying that the force was ready to call Pakistan's "nuclear bluff" and cross the border to carry out any operation if asked by the government. The Pakistan foreign minister called the statement of the Indian Army chief as "very irresponsible" on Twitter and said it amounted to an "invitation for a nuclear encounter". He also said that the army was "welcome to test our resolve". Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu to arrive in India today Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be visiting India today, six months after PM Modi paid his first-ever visit to Israel. Netanyahu will be the second Israeli PM to visit India, the first one being Ariel Sharon, who was hosted by then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in September 2003. Netanyahu will arrive for his six-day visit in the afternoon and will be accompanied by a 130-member delegation from various sectors including cyber, agriculture and defence. Six bodies recovered in Pawan Hans helicopter crash A Pawan Hans chopper carrying six senior officials and two pilots crashed on the Mumbai coast on Saturday, six bodies have been recovered so far. Search operations are still on for the one body that is still missing. "Out of six bodies, five has been identified. The search for one missing is still underway", a senior police inspector said. J&K: Army soldier killed in unprovoked firing along LoC An army jawan was killed in an unprovoked firing by Pakistan soldiers along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday. The firing took place in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district around 2 pm and lasted for 15 minutes. The Indian army counter-attacked effectively, media reports said. Bar Council of India cautions parties, leaders against meddling with judiciary The Bar Council of India (BCI) Saturday cautioned the political parties and leaders from taking an "undue advantage" of the situation, following a virtual revolt of four senior Supreme Court judges against the chief justice of India (CJI). It said the four seniormost judges going public with their differences with the CJI had given an opportunity to the political parties and leaders to interfere in the affairs of the judiciary. Without taking any name, BCI chairperson Manan Kumar Mishra said, "No political party or leader should take an undue advantage of the situation arising out of the press conference of the four senior Supreme Court judges."

WION morning news brief, January 14, 2018

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/54-african-countries-demand-trump-apology-over-shithole-remark-29377">54 African countries demand Trump apology over &#39;shithole&#39; remark</a>

A group of &quot;extremely appalled&quot; African countries demanded Friday that US President Donald Trump retract and apologise for his reported denunciation of immigration from &quot;shithole&quot; nations.

After an emergency session to weigh Trump&#39;s remarks, the group of African ambassadors to the United Nations said it was &quot;concerned at the continuing and growing trend from the US administration toward Africa and people of African descent to denigrate the continent and people of colour.&quot;&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-ambassador-to-panama-resigns-says-he-cannot-work-with-trump-anymore-29373">US ambassador to Panama resigns, says he cannot work with Trump anymore</a>

US Ambassador to Panama John Feeley has resigned, telling the State Department he no longer feels able to serve President Donald Trump.

&quot;As a junior foreign service officer, I signed an oath to serve faithfully the president and his administration in an apolitical fashion, even when I might not agree with certain policies,&quot; Feeley said, according to an excerpt of his resignation letter read to Reuters on Friday.

&quot;My instructors made clear that if I believed I could not do that, I would be honour bound to resign. That time has come.&quot;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-women-score-right-to-watch-mens-soccer-in-stadiums-29381">Saudi women score right to watch men&#39;s soccer in stadiums</a>

Women in black abayas and fluorescent orange vests stood at the gates at King Abdullah Stadium, welcoming people into the family section that, for the first time in Saudi Arabia, allowed women to attend a men&#39;s soccer match.

As the two teams al-Ahli and al-Batin faced each other in the city of Jeddah, women showed up to their first public sporting event in the Kingdom to support the sides with their spouses, children and friends.

The General Sports Authority announced in October that stadiums in Jeddah, Dammam and Riyadh will be set up to accommodate families starting in 2018.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/exam-shows-trump-in-excellent-health-white-house-29376">Exam shows Trump in &#39;excellent health&#39;: White House</a>

Donald Trump&#39;s doctor says he is in excellent health, after the 71-year-old president underwent his first medical examination Friday since taking office, the White House said.

&quot;The president&#39;s physical exam today at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center went exceptionally well,&quot; the doctor, Ronny Jackson, was quoted as saying in a statement released by the White House.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-17-maoist-ministers-decide-to-quit-government-29378">Nepal: 17 Maoist ministers decide to quit government</a>

Seventeen Maoist ministers in Nepal resigned on Friday, saying it was time for the government to clear the way for a new one, reports said.

All Maoist ministers - 17 (10 cabinet and seven ministers of state) - were divested of their portfolios; they could enjoy some perks but would no longer have control over ministries and so would not be able to use them during elections. Nepali Congress and its allies would be the ones retaining control.

54 African countries demand Trump apology over 'shithole' remark A group of "extremely appalled" African countries demanded Friday that US President Donald Trump retract and apologise for his reported denunciation of immigration from "shithole" nations. After an emergency session to weigh Trump's remarks, the group of African ambassadors to the United Nations said it was "concerned at the continuing and growing trend from the US administration toward Africa and people of African descent to denigrate the continent and people of colour." US ambassador to Panama resigns, says he cannot work with Trump anymore US Ambassador to Panama John Feeley has resigned, telling the State Department he no longer feels able to serve President Donald Trump. "As a junior foreign service officer, I signed an oath to serve faithfully the president and his administration in an apolitical fashion, even when I might not agree with certain policies," Feeley said, according to an excerpt of his resignation letter read to Reuters on Friday. "My instructors made clear that if I believed I could not do that, I would be honour bound to resign. That time has come." Saudi women score right to watch men's soccer in stadiums Women in black abayas and fluorescent orange vests stood at the gates at King Abdullah Stadium, welcoming people into the family section that, for the first time in Saudi Arabia, allowed women to attend a men's soccer match. As the two teams al-Ahli and al-Batin faced each other in the city of Jeddah, women showed up to their first public sporting event in the Kingdom to support the sides with their spouses, children and friends. The General Sports Authority announced in October that stadiums in Jeddah, Dammam and Riyadh will be set up to accommodate families starting in 2018. Exam shows Trump in 'excellent health': White House Donald Trump's doctor says he is in excellent health, after the 71-year-old president underwent his first medical examination Friday since taking office, the White House said. "The president's physical exam today at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center went exceptionally well," the doctor, Ronny Jackson, was quoted as saying in a statement released by the White House. Nepal: 17 Maoist ministers decide to quit government Seventeen Maoist ministers in Nepal resigned on Friday, saying it was time for the government to clear the way for a new one, reports said. All Maoist ministers - 17 (10 cabinet and seven ministers of state) - were divested of their portfolios; they could enjoy some perks but would no longer have control over ministries and so would not be able to use them during elections. Nepali Congress and its allies would be the ones retaining control.

WION news brief, January 13, 2018

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/fodder-scam-lalu-prasad-sentenced-to-35-years-in-jail-28721">Lalu Prasad sentenced to 3.5 years in jail in fodder scam</a>

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav was on Saturday sentenced to three-and-a-half years in jail in a fodder scam case by a court in Ranchi.

The former Bihar chief minister was also asked to pay a fine of Rs 5 lakh by the court.

Others convicted in the case, Phool Chand, Mahesh Prasad, Bake Julious, Sunil Kumar, Sushil Kumar, Sudhir Kumar and Raja Ram sentenced to three-and-a-half years in jail and Rs 5 lakh fine each.

None of the convicts in the fodder scam case can take bail from the Ranchi Court. They will have to move the high court, ANI reported.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-government-blacklists-hafiz-saeeds-jamaat-ud-dawa-jud-falah-e-insaniat-foundation-fif-28726">Pakistan government blacklists Hafiz Saeed&#39;s JuD</a>

Pakistan&#39;s Federal Ministry of Interior has released a list which has blacklisted Hafiz Saeed&rsquo;s Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) and its subsidiary Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF).

The list also includes 72 other banned groups.&nbsp;

The press release mentioned that any support to these organisations, financially or otherwise, will be considered a criminal offence.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-fire-owners-of-mojo-bistro-named-as-accused-28715">Mumbai fire: Owners of Mojo Bistro named as accused, one arrested</a>

The owners of the Mojo Bistro restaurant in Mumbai were on Saturday added as accused in the original First Information Report of the Kamla Mills fire incident. One of them, Yug Pathak, was subsequently arrested.

The fire brigade investigation report had revealed today that the deadly fire originated from the charcoal embers used for hookah smoking in Mojo&#39;s Bistro and then spread to the 1 Above pub on the floor above.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/all-options-on-the-table-to-deal-with-pakistan-white-house-28702">All options on the table to deal with Pakistan: White House</a>

The US is keeping &quot;all options&quot; on the table to deal with Pakistan if it does not take decisive action against the Taliban and the Haqqani network and dismantle their safe havens, the White House warned today.

The warning came after the US suspended about USD 2 billion in security aid to Pakistan for failing to clamp down on terror groups.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-avalanche-death-toll-reaches-8-28725">Kashmir avalanche: Death toll reaches 11</a>

At least 11 people have lost their lives so far in the avalanche that hit Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Kupwara district yesterday (January 5).&nbsp;

Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir Baseer Ahmed Khan, earlier informed that death toll had reached eight, adding that the rescue operations are still underway.

Lalu Prasad sentenced to 3.5 years in jail in fodder scam Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav was on Saturday sentenced to three-and-a-half years in jail in a fodder scam case by a court in Ranchi. The former Bihar chief minister was also asked to pay a fine of Rs 5 lakh by the court. Others convicted in the case, Phool Chand, Mahesh Prasad, Bake Julious, Sunil Kumar, Sushil Kumar, Sudhir Kumar and Raja Ram sentenced to three-and-a-half years in jail and Rs 5 lakh fine each. None of the convicts in the fodder scam case can take bail from the Ranchi Court. They will have to move the high court, ANI reported. Pakistan government blacklists Hafiz Saeed's JuD Pakistan's Federal Ministry of Interior has released a list which has blacklisted Hafiz Saeed’s Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) and its subsidiary Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF). The list also includes 72 other banned groups. The press release mentioned that any support to these organisations, financially or otherwise, will be considered a criminal offence. Mumbai fire: Owners of Mojo Bistro named as accused, one arrested The owners of the Mojo Bistro restaurant in Mumbai were on Saturday added as accused in the original First Information Report of the Kamla Mills fire incident. One of them, Yug Pathak, was subsequently arrested. The fire brigade investigation report had revealed today that the deadly fire originated from the charcoal embers used for hookah smoking in Mojo's Bistro and then spread to the 1 Above pub on the floor above. All options on the table to deal with Pakistan: White House The US is keeping "all options" on the table to deal with Pakistan if it does not take decisive action against the Taliban and the Haqqani network and dismantle their safe havens, the White House warned today. The warning came after the US suspended about USD 2 billion in security aid to Pakistan for failing to clamp down on terror groups. Kashmir avalanche: Death toll reaches 11 At least 11 people have lost their lives so far in the avalanche that hit Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district yesterday (January 5). Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir Baseer Ahmed Khan, earlier informed that death toll had reached eight, adding that the rescue operations are still underway.

WION news brief, January 6, 2018

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/vijay-rupani-to-continue-as-gujarat-chief-minister-nitin-bhai-patel-his-deputy-bjp-27467" target="_blank">Vijay Rupani to continue as Gujarat chief minister, Nitin Bhai Patel his deputy: BJP</a>

Vijay Rupani will continue as Chief Minister of Gujarat, Nitin Patel his deputy, the BJP announced on Friday. The announcement was made at a meeting conducted by elected BJP candidates under the steer of Finance Minister Arun Jaitley who made the announcement.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sachin-tendulkar-releases-video-takes-his-disrupted-rajya-sabha-speech-online-27462" target="_blank">Sachin Tendulkar releases video; takes his disrupted Rajya Sabha speech online</a>

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar was supposed to initiate a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sachin-tendulkars-unable-to-lead-debate-as-rajya-sabha-gets-adjourned-27360">debate&nbsp;</a>in&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sachin-tendulkars-unable-to-lead-debate-as-rajya-sabha-gets-adjourned-27360">Rajya Sabha yesterday</a>. His speech was disrupted as the Upper House of Parliament was adjourned due to Congress leaders&#39; sloganeering over PM Modi&#39;s remark on former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/adarsh-scam-bombay-high-court-rejects-governors-sanction-to-prosecute-ashok-chavan-27435" target="_blank">Adarsh scam: Bombay High Court rejects Governor&#39;s sanction to prosecute Ashok Chavan</a>

The Bombay High Court on Friday set aside Governor&#39;s sanction to prosecute senior Congress leader and former Maharashtra chief minister Ashok Chavan in the Adarsh scam.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/lashkar-e-taiba-creates-special-security-team-to-protect-hafiz-saeed-27474" target="_blank">Lashkar-e-Taiba forms &#39;special security team&#39; to protect Hafiz Saeed</a>

Lashkar-e-Taiba is reported to have created a &quot;special security team&quot;&nbsp;to provide security cover to global terrorist and Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) Chief Hafiz Saeed. Saeed&#39;s LeT&nbsp;security agents would also be armed with&nbsp;ammunition.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-president-calls-us-dishonest-mediator-says-will-not-accept-us-peace-plan-27464" target="_blank">Palestinian President calls US dishonest mediator, says will not accept US peace plan</a>

Mahmud Abbas, the president of Palestine has said that his country will not accept any peace proposal by the United States.&nbsp; He said, &quot;&nbsp;The United States has proven to be a dishonest mediator in the peace process and we will no longer accept any plan from the United States.&quot;

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Here are the top developments this evening

Vijay Rupani to continue as Gujarat chief minister, Nitin Bhai Patel his deputy: BJP Vijay Rupani will continue as Chief Minister of Gujarat, Nitin Patel his deputy, the BJP announced on Friday. The announcement was made at a meeting conducted by elected BJP candidates under the steer of Finance Minister Arun Jaitley who made the announcement. Sachin Tendulkar releases video; takes his disrupted Rajya Sabha speech online Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar was supposed to initiate a debate in Rajya Sabha yesterday. His speech was disrupted as the Upper House of Parliament was adjourned due to Congress leaders' sloganeering over PM Modi's remark on former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Adarsh scam: Bombay High Court rejects Governor's sanction to prosecute Ashok Chavan The Bombay High Court on Friday set aside Governor's sanction to prosecute senior Congress leader and former Maharashtra chief minister Ashok Chavan in the Adarsh scam. Lashkar-e-Taiba forms 'special security team' to protect Hafiz Saeed Lashkar-e-Taiba is reported to have created a "special security team" to provide security cover to global terrorist and Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) Chief Hafiz Saeed. Saeed's LeT security agents would also be armed with ammunition. Palestinian President calls US dishonest mediator, says will not accept US peace plan Mahmud Abbas, the president of Palestine has said that his country will not accept any peace proposal by the United States. He said, " The United States has proven to be a dishonest mediator in the peace process and we will no longer accept any plan from the United States."

WION evening news brief, December 22, 2017

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-updates-voting-begins-in-rk-nagar-27326">Live Updates: Voting begins in RK Nagar </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-updates-voting-begins-in-rk-nagar-27326">bypoll</a>

Voting began today in the prestigious RK Nagar bypoll in Chennai after a high-voltage campaign by the ruling AIADMK, Independent candidate TTV Dinkarakan and DMK for late Tamil Nadu chief minister J Jayalalithaa&#39;s seat.

The bypoll was initially scheduled for April 12 but the Election Commission cancelled it over allegation of votes being bought by parties in the vote-for-cash scam.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-fog-30-trains-delayed-15-cancelled-27325">Delhi fog: 30 trains delayed, 15 </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-fog-30-trains-delayed-15-cancelled-27325">cancelled</a>

For the second consecutive day today, trains continued to get delayed and cancelled in the national capital due to fog.

Thirty trains were delayed, 11 rescheduled and 15 cancelled due to low visibility and other operational reasons, ANI reported.

Several trains have also been delayed in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh on account of fog.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-court-to-pronounce-verdict-in-2g-scam-today-27328">Delhi court to pronounce verdict in 2G scam today</a>

After seven years, a Delhi court will today pronounce its verdict in the 2G spectrum allocation scam cases, which rattled the Manmohan Singh-led UPA government during its second term.

The judgement by special CBI judge OP Saini will decide the fate of former telecom minister A Raja, DMK MP Kanimozhi and several others accused in the 2007-08 case which, as per a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India, caused a loss of Rs. 1.76 lakh crore to the state exchequer.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/another-north-korean-soldier-defects-to-south-korea-27322">South Korean army fires warning shots after North Korean soldier defects across DMZ</a>

As a North Korean soldier crossed the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) today, South Korean soldiers fired around 20 warning shots as troops approached the border, the South Korean defence ministry said.

The Northern border guards appeared to be searching for the man, who had earlier crossed the DMZ under thick fog, a ministry spokesman told AFP.

Just a month after a North Korean soldier defected to South Korea, another soldier from Kim&#39;s regime crossed the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) today.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-taimur-ali-khans-first-birthday-was-strictly-a-family-affair-see-inside-pics-27323">Taimur Ali Khan&#39;s first birthday was strictly a family affair; see inside pics</a>

Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan&#39;s baby boy turned one on Wednesday and the couple brought in his birthday at the Pataudi Palace in an intimate gathering. In attendance were Kareena&#39;s parents, Randhir Kapoor and Babita and sister Kareena Kapoor along with her two children. Saif&#39;s mother, actress Sharmila Tagore was also present and so were Kareena&#39;s uncle Karan Kapoor and cousin Zahaan.&nbsp;

The center of attraction was, of course, the birthday boy, Taimur. A celebrity in his own right, Taimur cut his birthday cake along with his parents while his grandmothers looked on. The cake was a three-tier cake, complete with animals and a mini-jungle.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Live Updates: Voting begins in RK Nagar bypoll Voting began today in the prestigious RK Nagar bypoll in Chennai after a high-voltage campaign by the ruling AIADMK, Independent candidate TTV Dinkarakan and DMK for late Tamil Nadu chief minister J Jayalalithaa's seat. The bypoll was initially scheduled for April 12 but the Election Commission cancelled it over allegation of votes being bought by parties in the vote-for-cash scam. Delhi fog: 30 trains delayed, 15 cancelled For the second consecutive day today, trains continued to get delayed and cancelled in the national capital due to fog. Thirty trains were delayed, 11 rescheduled and 15 cancelled due to low visibility and other operational reasons, ANI reported. Several trains have also been delayed in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh on account of fog. Delhi court to pronounce verdict in 2G scam today After seven years, a Delhi court will today pronounce its verdict in the 2G spectrum allocation scam cases, which rattled the Manmohan Singh-led UPA government during its second term. The judgement by special CBI judge OP Saini will decide the fate of former telecom minister A Raja, DMK MP Kanimozhi and several others accused in the 2007-08 case which, as per a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India, caused a loss of Rs. 1.76 lakh crore to the state exchequer. South Korean army fires warning shots after North Korean soldier defects across DMZ As a North Korean soldier crossed the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) today, South Korean soldiers fired around 20 warning shots as troops approached the border, the South Korean defence ministry said. The Northern border guards appeared to be searching for the man, who had earlier crossed the DMZ under thick fog, a ministry spokesman told AFP. Just a month after a North Korean soldier defected to South Korea, another soldier from Kim's regime crossed the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) today. Taimur Ali Khan's first birthday was strictly a family affair; see inside pics Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan's baby boy turned one on Wednesday and the couple brought in his birthday at the Pataudi Palace in an intimate gathering. In attendance were Kareena's parents, Randhir Kapoor and Babita and sister Kareena Kapoor along with her two children. Saif's mother, actress Sharmila Tagore was also present and so were Kareena's uncle Karan Kapoor and cousin Zahaan. The center of attraction was, of course, the birthday boy, Taimur. A celebrity in his own right, Taimur cut his birthday cake along with his parents while his grandmothers looked on. The cake was a three-tier cake, complete with animals and a mini-jungle.

WION news brief, December 21, 2017

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/we-make-massive-payments-to-pakistan-they-have-to-help-fight-terror-groups-trump-27234">We make massive payments to Pakistan, they have to help fight terror groups: Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump slammed Pakistan while unveiling his national security strategy, even as the administration officials expressed concern over JuD chief Hafiz Saeed running for office in Pakistan next year.

State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert said Saeed was the &quot;mastermind of the Mumbai terrorist attacks&quot; and leader of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), adding, &quot;it is a group the US government considers to be a terror organisation.&quot;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/rohingya-repatriation-to-myanmar-should-be-voluntary-and-dignified-us-27223">Rohingya repatriation to Myanmar should be voluntary and dignified: US</a>

The United States said it would like to see &quot;safe&quot; and &quot;dignified&quot; return of Rohingyas back to Myanmar, insisting &quot;Rohingyas need to be treated well as they decide to return home&quot;.

However, even after nearly four months, Rohingyas continue to flee Myanmar in huge numbers. The UN has estimated over 6,20,000 Rohingyas have already crossed over to Bangladesh with thousands more expected to reach trekking over mountains and through forests and rice fields inundated by monsoon rain.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-akshay-kumars-toilet-ek-prem-katha-gets-a-thumbs-up-from-bill-gates-for-being-inspirational-27225">Akshay Kumar&#39;s &#39;Toilet Ek Prem Katha&#39;&nbsp;gets a thumbs up from Bill Gates for being inspirational</a>

Known for his philanthropic work, American business magnate Bill Gates on Tuesday listed out stories of &#39;hope and progress&#39; in 2017 on his Twitter page.&nbsp;

Among inspirational stories from across the world, Gates also mentioned Akshay Kumar&#39;s film Toilet Ek Prem Katha as a film that brought in awareness around sanitation in Indian rural households.&nbsp;

&quot;&quot;Toilet: A Love Story,&rdquo; a Bollywood romance about a newlywed couple, educated audiences about India&rsquo;s sanitation challenge.(sic)&quot; said Gates in his tweet.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-fog-20-trains-delayed-15-cancelled-27228">Delhi fog: 20 trains delayed, 15 </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-fog-20-trains-delayed-15-cancelled-27228">cancelled</a>

Due to decreased visibility or operational reasons, 20 trains in Delhi will arrive late, 15 have been cancelled and two have been rescheduled.

There is no information about any delays or cancellations of flights so far.

The national capital has been experiencing bitter cold since the last few days, leading to cancellation and rescheduling of trains.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/bitcoin-crashes-over-10-per-cent-on-bitstamp-27226">Bitcoin crashes over 10 </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/bitcoin-crashes-over-10-per-cent-on-bitstamp-27226">per cent</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/bitcoin-crashes-over-10-per-cent-on-bitstamp-27226"> on Bitstamp</a>

Bitcoin value crashed by over 10% on Wednesday to touch $15,800 at a cryptocurrency exchange Bitstamp.

&quot;It has since pared some of the losses and is down about 7 per cent in early trade,&quot; noted a Reuters report.

The recent Bitcoin surge overwhelmed investors and financial experts all across the world as the digital currency touched an all-time high soaring at about $19,666 on Sunday, its value has been sliding ever since.&nbsp;

We make massive payments to Pakistan, they have to help fight terror groups: Trump US President Donald Trump slammed Pakistan while unveiling his national security strategy, even as the administration officials expressed concern over JuD chief Hafiz Saeed running for office in Pakistan next year. State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert said Saeed was the "mastermind of the Mumbai terrorist attacks" and leader of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), adding, "it is a group the US government considers to be a terror organisation." Rohingya repatriation to Myanmar should be voluntary and dignified: US The United States said it would like to see "safe" and "dignified" return of Rohingyas back to Myanmar, insisting "Rohingyas need to be treated well as they decide to return home". However, even after nearly four months, Rohingyas continue to flee Myanmar in huge numbers. The UN has estimated over 6,20,000 Rohingyas have already crossed over to Bangladesh with thousands more expected to reach trekking over mountains and through forests and rice fields inundated by monsoon rain. Akshay Kumar's 'Toilet Ek Prem Katha' gets a thumbs up from Bill Gates for being inspirational Known for his philanthropic work, American business magnate Bill Gates on Tuesday listed out stories of 'hope and progress' in 2017 on his Twitter page. Among inspirational stories from across the world, Gates also mentioned Akshay Kumar's film Toilet Ek Prem Katha as a film that brought in awareness around sanitation in Indian rural households. ""Toilet: A Love Story,” a Bollywood romance about a newlywed couple, educated audiences about India’s sanitation challenge.(sic)" said Gates in his tweet. Delhi fog: 20 trains delayed, 15 cancelled Due to decreased visibility or operational reasons, 20 trains in Delhi will arrive late, 15 have been cancelled and two have been rescheduled. There is no information about any delays or cancellations of flights so far. The national capital has been experiencing bitter cold since the last few days, leading to cancellation and rescheduling of trains. Bitcoin crashes over 10 per cent on Bitstamp Bitcoin value crashed by over 10% on Wednesday to touch $15,800 at a cryptocurrency exchange Bitstamp. "It has since pared some of the losses and is down about 7 per cent in early trade," noted a Reuters report. The recent Bitcoin surge overwhelmed investors and financial experts all across the world as the digital currency touched an all-time high soaring at about $19,666 on Sunday, its value has been sliding ever since.

WION morning news brief, December 20, 2017

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/exit-poll-results-2017-bjp-to-retain-gujarat-overthrow-congress-in-himachal-pradesh-26751">Exit poll results 2017: BJP to retain Gujarat, overthrow Congress in Himachal Pradesh</a>

Voting in the second and final phase of Gujarat assembly elections has ended and poll predictions for the state and Himachal Pradesh have started coming in.

Almost every pollster has predicted that the BJP is likely to retain Gujarat, but with a reduced number of seats. According to Republic-C Voter exit polls, the BJP is likely to get 108 seats, whereas Times Now-VMR Exit Poll data says BJP will get 109 seats out of a total of 182 seats.

The Congress will give the BJP a fight in Gujarat. While the Times Now-VMR exit poll gives Rahul Gandhi&#39;s party 70 seats, Republic-C-Voter predicts it will get 74 seats.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-directs-its-high-commission-in-delhi-to-issue-visas-to-jadhavs-family-26746">Pakistan directs high commission in Delhi to issue visas to Jadhav&#39;s mother, wife</a>

Pakistan today directed its High Commission in New Delhi to issue visas to the wife and mother of Indian death row prisoner Kulbhushan Jadhav, official sources said.

The directive was issued by the Foreign Ministry following its decision last week to allow Jadhav&#39;s family to meet him on December 25 in Islamabad, they said.

An Indian high commission official will be allowed to accompany Jadhav&#39;s family during their meeting.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-to-pronounce-interim-order-on-mandatory-linking-of-aadhaar-tomorrow-26747">Supreme Court to pronounce interim order on mandatory linking of Aadhaar tomorrow</a>

The Supreme Court on Thursday reserved its interim order on a clutch of pleas seeking a stay on the government&#39;s decision to link Aadhaar with various welfare schemes.

The order will be pronounced tomorrow.&nbsp;

A five-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra said the final hearing on petitions challenging the Aadhaar scheme itself would start from January 17 next year.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-inflation-rises-to-eight-month-high-in-november-26724">India&#39;s wholesale inflation rises to eight-month high in November</a>

India&#39;s wholesale price based inflation rose to 3.93 per cent in November, as against 3.59 per cent in October.

The annual wholesale price inflation accelerated in November to an eight-month high, driven by faster rises in prices of food and fuel products, government data showed.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sc-to-centre-ensure-courts-deciding-cases-against-mps-mlas-start-from-march-1-26739">SC to Centre: Ensure courts deciding cases against MPs, MLAs start functioning from March 1</a>

The Supreme Court told the Centre Thursday to ensure that the fast-track courts that will decide pending cases against MPs and MLAs start functioning from March 1, 2018.&nbsp;

The court directed the Centre to allocate Rs 7.8 crore proportionally to the states where the 12 special courts will be set up.

The court added that the courts will be set up by the state governments in consultation with high courts.&nbsp;

Exit poll results 2017: BJP to retain Gujarat, overthrow Congress in Himachal Pradesh Voting in the second and final phase of Gujarat assembly elections has ended and poll predictions for the state and Himachal Pradesh have started coming in. Almost every pollster has predicted that the BJP is likely to retain Gujarat, but with a reduced number of seats. According to Republic-C Voter exit polls, the BJP is likely to get 108 seats, whereas Times Now-VMR Exit Poll data says BJP will get 109 seats out of a total of 182 seats. The Congress will give the BJP a fight in Gujarat. While the Times Now-VMR exit poll gives Rahul Gandhi's party 70 seats, Republic-C-Voter predicts it will get 74 seats. Pakistan directs high commission in Delhi to issue visas to Jadhav's mother, wife Pakistan today directed its High Commission in New Delhi to issue visas to the wife and mother of Indian death row prisoner Kulbhushan Jadhav, official sources said. The directive was issued by the Foreign Ministry following its decision last week to allow Jadhav's family to meet him on December 25 in Islamabad, they said. An Indian high commission official will be allowed to accompany Jadhav's family during their meeting. Supreme Court to pronounce interim order on mandatory linking of Aadhaar tomorrow The Supreme Court on Thursday reserved its interim order on a clutch of pleas seeking a stay on the government's decision to link Aadhaar with various welfare schemes. The order will be pronounced tomorrow. A five-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra said the final hearing on petitions challenging the Aadhaar scheme itself would start from January 17 next year. India's wholesale inflation rises to eight-month high in November India's wholesale price based inflation rose to 3.93 per cent in November, as against 3.59 per cent in October. The annual wholesale price inflation accelerated in November to an eight-month high, driven by faster rises in prices of food and fuel products, government data showed. SC to Centre: Ensure courts deciding cases against MPs, MLAs start functioning from March 1 The Supreme Court told the Centre Thursday to ensure that the fast-track courts that will decide pending cases against MPs and MLAs start functioning from March 1, 2018. The court directed the Centre to allocate Rs 7.8 crore proportionally to the states where the 12 special courts will be set up. The court added that the courts will be set up by the state governments in consultation with high courts.

WION evening news brief, December 14, 2017

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/my-family-shiv-bhakts-says-rahul-gandhi-after-controversy-over-his-religion-25551">My grandmother, family &#39;Shiv Bhakts&#39;, says Rahul Gandhi after controversy over his religion</a>

Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday clarified that he and his family members were &quot;Shiv Bhakts&quot; (devotees of Lord Shiva) but that he did not want to use his religion for political gains or &quot;dalali&quot; (deals).

Rahul Gandhi&#39;s remarks came a day after the controversy over his religion. The Congress leader alleged that some BJP workers entered had entered his name in the register meant for non-Hindus at Gujarat&#39;s famous Somnath temple leading to the controversy.

He also said he did not need anybody&#39;s certificate about his religion, nor would he do &#39;dalali&#39; (deal) over religion.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-ockhi-navy-deployed-for-rescue-operations-25555">Cyclone </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-ockhi-navy-deployed-for-rescue-operations-25555">Ockhi</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-ockhi-navy-deployed-for-rescue-operations-25555">: Navy deployed for rescue operations</a>

The Indian Navy has been deployed for rescue operations as cyclonic storm Ockhi hit the coasts of Tamil Nadu and Kerala yesterday wreaking havoc in the two states, defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman said.

At least 80 fishermen and 50 boats have gone missing, ANI reported. The navy said today it has launched rescue operations.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has already issued an alert of heavy to very heavy rainfall in both the states.

Schools in Chennai, Kanyakumari, Tuticorin, Kancheepuram, Villupuram, Madurai, Theni, Thanjavur and Thiruvarur will remain closed today, ANI reported.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/barack-obama-to-address-town-hall-in-delhi-today-25550">Barack Obama to address town hall in Delhi today</a>

Former US President Barack Obama is going to address a town hall in Delhi today for the Obama Foundation.

Obama will be speaking at a media conclave where he will also interact with nearly 300 young leaders from across the country.

The former US President is also expected to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ryan-school-murder-supreme-court-to-hear-plea-challenging-pinto-familys-anticipatory-bail-25553">Ryan School murder: Supreme Court to hear plea challenging Pinto family&#39;s anticipatory bail</a>

The Supreme Court will hear a petition filed by Pradyuman Thakur&#39;s family challenging the anticipatory bail granted to the Pintos&#39; who are the founder of the Ryan Group of Institutions.

The Pinto family got an anticipatory bail in connection with the murder case by Punjab and Haryana High Court on November 21.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/magnitude-60-earthquake-hits-southeast-iran-usgeological-survey-25556">Magnitude 6.0 earthquake hits southeast Iran</a>

A strong quake of magnitude 6.0 struck southeastern Iran near the city of Kerman on Friday, the US Geological Survey said.

The quake, initially reported as a magnitude 6.3, was centered 36 miles (58 km) northeast of Kerman, which has a population of more than 821,000.

A magnitude 6.0 quake is considered capable of causing severe damage.

My grandmother, family 'Shiv Bhakts', says Rahul Gandhi after controversy over his religion Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday clarified that he and his family members were "Shiv Bhakts" (devotees of Lord Shiva) but that he did not want to use his religion for political gains or "dalali" (deals). Rahul Gandhi's remarks came a day after the controversy over his religion. The Congress leader alleged that some BJP workers entered had entered his name in the register meant for non-Hindus at Gujarat's famous Somnath temple leading to the controversy. He also said he did not need anybody's certificate about his religion, nor would he do 'dalali' (deal) over religion. Cyclone Ockhi: Navy deployed for rescue operations The Indian Navy has been deployed for rescue operations as cyclonic storm Ockhi hit the coasts of Tamil Nadu and Kerala yesterday wreaking havoc in the two states, defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman said. At least 80 fishermen and 50 boats have gone missing, ANI reported. The navy said today it has launched rescue operations. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has already issued an alert of heavy to very heavy rainfall in both the states. Schools in Chennai, Kanyakumari, Tuticorin, Kancheepuram, Villupuram, Madurai, Theni, Thanjavur and Thiruvarur will remain closed today, ANI reported. Barack Obama to address town hall in Delhi today Former US President Barack Obama is going to address a town hall in Delhi today for the Obama Foundation. Obama will be speaking at a media conclave where he will also interact with nearly 300 young leaders from across the country. The former US President is also expected to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Ryan School murder: Supreme Court to hear plea challenging Pinto family's anticipatory bail The Supreme Court will hear a petition filed by Pradyuman Thakur's family challenging the anticipatory bail granted to the Pintos' who are the founder of the Ryan Group of Institutions. The Pinto family got an anticipatory bail in connection with the murder case by Punjab and Haryana High Court on November 21. Magnitude 6.0 earthquake hits southeast Iran A strong quake of magnitude 6.0 struck southeastern Iran near the city of Kerman on Friday, the US Geological Survey said. The quake, initially reported as a magnitude 6.3, was centered 36 miles (58 km) northeast of Kerman, which has a population of more than 821,000. A magnitude 6.0 quake is considered capable of causing severe damage.

WION morning news brief, December 1, 2017

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-tests-icbm-in-fresh-challenge-to-trump-25388">North Korea test-fires ICBM; &#39;will take care of it,&#39; says Trump</a>

North Korea test-fired an intercontinental ballistic missile on Wednesday, in a major challenge to US President Donald Trump after he slapped fresh sanctions on Pyongyang and declared it a state sponsor of terrorism.

At least one expert said its lofted trajectory suggested an actual range of 13,000 kilometres that would bring every city in the continental United States within range.

Trump, who has previously threatened North Korea with &quot;fire and fury,&quot; was guarded in his immediate response, as the UN Security Council agreed to convene an emergency session to discuss the latest provocation.

&quot;I will only tell you that we will take care of it,&quot; Trump said at the White House. &quot;It is a situation that we will handle,&quot; he added, without elaborating.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-hosts-ivanka-trump-for-dinner-at-hyderbads-falaknuma-palace-25389">Modi-Ivanka dinner at Falaknuma Palace: Biryani on the menu</a>

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted US President Donald Trump&#39;s daughter Ivanka to a lavish dinner at Hyderabad&#39;s Falaknuma Palace on Tuesday night as a part of the ongoing Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) 2017 in the southern city.

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao, governor Governor ESL. Narasimhan, was among those present for the dinner at the famous Nizam-era table which can seat 101 guests at a time.

Indian delicacies including the sabz (vegetable) biryani, dal-e-adaa (black lentil), (dahi &nbsp;ke (curd-made) kebab, bharwan (stuffed) paneer tikka, tamarind sorbet (juice), saag (vegetable) and khubani ke malai kofte, mirch-ka-salan, boondi raita (curd), sitafal kulfi (a form of ice cream), and khubani (apricot) ka meetha with pistachio ice cream formed a part of the elaborate five-course menu.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-officials-extend-bali-airport-closure-over-volcanic-ash-25387">Bali airport closed for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-officials-extend-bali-airport-closure-over-volcanic-ash-25387">third</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-officials-extend-bali-airport-closure-over-volcanic-ash-25387"> day</a>

The international airport on the resort island of Bali will be closed for a third day, Indonesian officials said Wednesday, as ash from a rumbling volcano poses a danger to planes.&nbsp;

&quot;Bali&#39;s Ngurah Rai airport will remain closed until at least Thursday morning,&quot; airport spokesman Arie Ahsanurrohim told AFP.&nbsp;

Mount Agung, which looms over one of the world&#39;s top holiday spots, could produce a thunderous eruption at any moment, officials have warned, forcing the main airport to be shut since Monday.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/epl-man-united-stay-in-touch-tottenham-stumble-again-25390">EPL: Man United stay in touch, Tottenham stumble again</a>

Manchester United sent a timely message to leaders Manchester City as they won 4-2 at Watford but Tottenham Hotspur&#39;s Premier League challenge is fading fast after they slumped to a 2-1 defeat at Leicester City on Tuesday.

Ashley Young was on target for the first time in 18 months as he scored twice for second-placed United who led 3-0 at the break before Watford produced a late fightback.

United&#39;s win moves them to 32 points and they are within five points of leaders City who host Southampton on Wednesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/wedding-season-chhattisgarh-bans-firecrackers-in-six-cities-25393">Wedding season: Chhattisgarh bans firecrackers in six cities</a>

The Chhattisgarh government has ordered a ban on bursting fire crackers in six of its cities, including the state capital Raipur, ahead of the wedding season from December 1 to January 31.

The Chhattisgarh Environment Conservation Board said the ban will be implemented every year during the period to curb pollution in the state.

Besides Raipur, the other cities which have been banned from bursting firecrackers include Bilaspur, Bhilai, Durg, Raigarh and Korba. The decision was taken under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1981 by the state government.

North Korea test-fires ICBM; 'will take care of it,' says Trump North Korea test-fired an intercontinental ballistic missile on Wednesday, in a major challenge to US President Donald Trump after he slapped fresh sanctions on Pyongyang and declared it a state sponsor of terrorism. At least one expert said its lofted trajectory suggested an actual range of 13,000 kilometres that would bring every city in the continental United States within range. Trump, who has previously threatened North Korea with "fire and fury," was guarded in his immediate response, as the UN Security Council agreed to convene an emergency session to discuss the latest provocation. "I will only tell you that we will take care of it," Trump said at the White House. "It is a situation that we will handle," he added, without elaborating. Modi-Ivanka dinner at Falaknuma Palace: Biryani on the menu Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted US President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka to a lavish dinner at Hyderabad's Falaknuma Palace on Tuesday night as a part of the ongoing Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) 2017 in the southern city. Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao, governor Governor ESL. Narasimhan, was among those present for the dinner at the famous Nizam-era table which can seat 101 guests at a time. Indian delicacies including the sabz (vegetable) biryani, dal-e-adaa (black lentil), (dahi ke (curd-made) kebab, bharwan (stuffed) paneer tikka, tamarind sorbet (juice), saag (vegetable) and khubani ke malai kofte, mirch-ka-salan, boondi raita (curd), sitafal kulfi (a form of ice cream), and khubani (apricot) ka meetha with pistachio ice cream formed a part of the elaborate five-course menu. Bali airport closed for third day The international airport on the resort island of Bali will be closed for a third day, Indonesian officials said Wednesday, as ash from a rumbling volcano poses a danger to planes. "Bali's Ngurah Rai airport will remain closed until at least Thursday morning," airport spokesman Arie Ahsanurrohim told AFP. Mount Agung, which looms over one of the world's top holiday spots, could produce a thunderous eruption at any moment, officials have warned, forcing the main airport to be shut since Monday. EPL: Man United stay in touch, Tottenham stumble again Manchester United sent a timely message to leaders Manchester City as they won 4-2 at Watford but Tottenham Hotspur's Premier League challenge is fading fast after they slumped to a 2-1 defeat at Leicester City on Tuesday. Ashley Young was on target for the first time in 18 months as he scored twice for second-placed United who led 3-0 at the break before Watford produced a late fightback. United's win moves them to 32 points and they are within five points of leaders City who host Southampton on Wednesday. Wedding season: Chhattisgarh bans firecrackers in six cities The Chhattisgarh government has ordered a ban on bursting fire crackers in six of its cities, including the state capital Raipur, ahead of the wedding season from December 1 to January 31. The Chhattisgarh Environment Conservation Board said the ban will be implemented every year during the period to curb pollution in the state. Besides Raipur, the other cities which have been banned from bursting firecrackers include Bilaspur, Bhilai, Durg, Raigarh and Korba. The decision was taken under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1981 by the state government.

WION News brief, November 29, 2017

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-personnel-killed-5-terrorists-shot-dead-in-encounter-in-jks-bandipora-24523">Air Force commando killed, 5 terrorists shot dead in encounter in J&amp;K&#39;s Bandipora</a>

An Indian Air Force personnel of the Garud commando force was killed and two army personnel were injured in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir&#39;s Bandipora district on Saturday.Five terrorists were shot dead in the encounter that took place in Bandipora&#39;s Hajin town, ANI reported. 
 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padmavati-makers-pressurising-us-to-clear-film-censor-board-chairman-24513">&#39;Padmavati&#39; makers pressurising us to clear film: Censor board chairman</a>

The chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) Prasoon Joshi today criticised the makers of &quot;Padmavati&quot; for pressurising the censor board to clear the film without completing the paperwork.&nbsp;

Prasoon Joshi revealed that the disclaimer whether the film was a work of fiction or historical had been left blank.

The censor board chairperson also slammed the filmmakers for screening the film for the press and on national channels without the censor board &quot;having seen or certified&quot; the film.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/shah-rukh-khan-and-netflix-announce-original-series-based-on-bard-of-blood-24515">Shah Rukh Khan, Netflix announce original series based on &#39;Bard of Blood&#39;</a>

Shah Rukh Khan&#39;s Red Chilies&#39; entertainment has collaborated with streaming giant Netflix for an original Indian series.

The series will be a thriller based on a book &quot;Bard of Blood&quot; by Bilaal Siddiqui, and it will be a multilingual series in which characters will be interacting in Hindi, Urdu, English and other languages.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kopardi-gangrape-murder-ahmedabad-court-holds-dalit-youth-guilty-24518">Kopardi gangrape, murder: Ahmedabad court holds Dalit youth guilty</a>

The Ahmednagar district sessions court today convicted three Dalit youth of the gangrape and murder of a 15-year-old girl in Maharashtra&#39;s Kopardi village in 2016.

The quantum of punishment will be pronounced on November 21.

The victim, who belonged to the Maratha community, was found murdered after being raped on July 13 at Kopardi village in Ahmednagar district. 
 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/you-have-made-one-pakistan-how-many-pakistans-will-you-make-how-many-pieces-will-you-cut-india-into-says-farooq-andullah-24514">&#39;How many Pakistans will you make&#39;, reiterates Farooq Abdullah</a>

Unfazed by the legal cases and sharp criticism, former chief minister and National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah on Saturday reiterated that Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) is part of Pakistan.

While addressing a gathering in Jammu today, Farooq Abdullah said &#39;that You have made one Pakistan, how many Pakistans will you make, how many pieces will you cut India into?&#39;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Air Force commando killed, 5 terrorists shot dead in encounter in J&K's Bandipora An Indian Air Force personnel of the Garud commando force was killed and two army personnel were injured in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Bandipora district on Saturday.Five terrorists were shot dead in the encounter that took place in Bandipora's Hajin town, ANI reported. 'Padmavati' makers pressurising us to clear film: Censor board chairman The chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) Prasoon Joshi today criticised the makers of "Padmavati" for pressurising the censor board to clear the film without completing the paperwork. Prasoon Joshi revealed that the disclaimer whether the film was a work of fiction or historical had been left blank. The censor board chairperson also slammed the filmmakers for screening the film for the press and on national channels without the censor board "having seen or certified" the film. Shah Rukh Khan, Netflix announce original series based on 'Bard of Blood' Shah Rukh Khan's Red Chilies' entertainment has collaborated with streaming giant Netflix for an original Indian series. The series will be a thriller based on a book "Bard of Blood" by Bilaal Siddiqui, and it will be a multilingual series in which characters will be interacting in Hindi, Urdu, English and other languages. Kopardi gangrape, murder: Ahmedabad court holds Dalit youth guilty The Ahmednagar district sessions court today convicted three Dalit youth of the gangrape and murder of a 15-year-old girl in Maharashtra's Kopardi village in 2016. The quantum of punishment will be pronounced on November 21. The victim, who belonged to the Maratha community, was found murdered after being raped on July 13 at Kopardi village in Ahmednagar district. 'How many Pakistans will you make', reiterates Farooq Abdullah Unfazed by the legal cases and sharp criticism, former chief minister and National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah on Saturday reiterated that Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) is part of Pakistan. While addressing a gathering in Jammu today, Farooq Abdullah said 'that You have made one Pakistan, how many Pakistans will you make, how many pieces will you cut India into?'

WION evening news brief, November 18, 2017

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