How fast can the Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jet really fly?

Did China ask its people 'not to respond to aliens'? Origin of bizarre claim on social media

MS Dhoni-CSK Fallout? Report claims failed stake sale talks triggered rift

Scientists reveal the SAFEST COUNTRY when catastrophe strikes the planet

Serial killer on the loose in South Korea's Jeju Island? Fourth body found in three days as more than a dozen people go missing

2/3rd of glacier detached, collapsed: ISRO satellite images reveal what triggered Nepal floods

Trump once again claims without him there would be ‘no Israel right now’

Foreign espionage attacks against German companies surge to 37%, Bitkom report reveals

Blake Lively wins partial legal fee from Justin Baldoni after $8M request

Why is Pakistan deploying Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones near India border?

'OH MY GOD! We've found other agents!': Investigators discover not one or two, almost 700 OpenAI AI agents went rogue, hacked Hugging Face

Lunar eclipse 2026: India timings, places to see and more. August Blood moon factsheet

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on global outreach tour 

Both pilots killed as training aircraft crashes in Lucknow – What we know

16-year-old charged with preparing terror attack on kindergarten in Norway

How the S-400 protects itself from enemy attacks

Nepal floods: Over 165 dead, 400 missing; US, India, China, World Bank mobilise aid

India's multi-layered watch: The new surveillance war

5 doomsday planes spotted in US skies hours after CIA director's secret trip to Russia

9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed to finally face trial in 2028, nearly 27 years after horrific attacks

Islamabad hospital fire: What we know about one of the biggest facility that housed Imran Khan

Workers run for life while filming Nepal flash flood: Scary new visuals emerge from Rasuwa

Russian military planes enter South Korean air defence zone amid rising tensions with North Korea: What's happening

Ron Weasley Is Back! Rupert Grint set to return to Harry Potter universe on Broadway

400-year-old 'vampire' grave in Poland reveals non-existent genetic lineage

Dolly Parton, global icon and queen of country music, dies at 80

Nepal flash floods: Kailash Mansarovar yatra affected, close to 400 pilgrims out of contact

'If he is dead, they're putting on a pretty good show': Trump casts fresh doubt over Mojtaba Khamenei's fate

Man arrested near US Capitol with guillotine in pickup truck: What happened?

Why the Su-30MKI cockpit is painted bright turquoise green

Many people dream of a white Christmas, but unfortunately, we may have to become used to a sodden Christmas instead due to climate change. Driven primarily by humanity’s mass burning of fossil fuels, that decline in days below freezing threatens tourism, the economy, and cultures. But how does climate change impact white Christmases?

Are the chances of a white Christmas changing?

In Uttar Pradesh, India, preparations are underway for the Maha Kumbh Mela, scheduled to take place in January 2025. The event is expected to draw over 400 million attendees, making it one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. To ensure the safety of both pilgrims and tourists, significant improvements have been made to fire safety measures. Our special correspondent, Johan, has more on this development in the following report. Watch in for more details!

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: 350 fire vehicles ready to ensure safety at the event

South Korea's opposition Democratic Party said on Thursday (December 26) that it filed an impeachment motion against the acting President Han Duck-soo over an escalating dispute about the composition of the Constitutional Court, which would decide whether to remove his predecessor from office.&nbsp;
South Korea has been facing political turmoil since President Yoon Suk Yeol imposed martial law on December 3, after which he was impeached.&nbsp;
The parliament took away Yoon's duties on December 14, however, a constitutional court ruling upholding the decision is required to complete the impeachment process.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-opposition-considering-to-impeach-acting-president-over-refusal-to-meet-partys-demand-786445">South Korea opposition considering impeachment of acting president over refusal to meet party demand</a>
The court is currently short of three judges. However, it can move forward with its six members on the bench, but a single dissenting vote would reinstate Yoon in power.&nbsp;
Now, the Democratic Party wants Han to approve three more nominees to fill the nine-member bench, which he has refused to do so far.&nbsp;
Following this, the opposition party said that Han should be impeached too.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We have filed the motion...and will report it to the plenary session today,&rdquo; MP Park Sung-joon said of the action against Han. &ldquo;We will put it to a vote tomorrow.&rdquo;
Han&rsquo;s refusal to formally appoint the three judges proves that he &ldquo;does not have the will or qualification to uphold the constitution&rdquo;, the Democratic Party&rsquo;s floor leader, Park Chan-dae, said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-rally-in-south-korea-protesting-against-president-yoons-impeachment-blames-rigged-elections-785827">Thousands rally in South Korea, protesting against President Yoon's impeachment, blame rigged elections</a>
<h2>'Compromise on nominees'</h2>
Meanwhile, Han said that he would certify the judges' appointments only if his ruling party and the opposition compromise on the nominees.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The consistent principle embedded in our constitution and laws is to refrain from exercising significant exclusive presidential powers, including the appointment of constitutional institutions,&rdquo; Han said.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-president-fails-to-show-up-before-corruption-watchdog-over-martial-law-fiasco-784965" rel="dofollow">Also read: South Korean president fails to show up before corruption watchdog over martial law fiasco&nbsp;</a>
&ldquo;A consensus between the ruling and opposition parties in the national assembly, representing the people, must first be reached,&rdquo; he added.&nbsp;
If the impeachment happens, it would be the first time in Korean history that both the president and the prime minister, the two key figures in the government body, would have been ousted by the parliament.&nbsp;
Notably, in place of Han, finance minister Choi Sang-mok would be appointed as acting president.
Moreover, the opposition has accused Han of violating his duty as acting president as he refused to formally appoint the judges and sign into law special bills to investigate his impeached predecessor Yoon Suk Yeol and first lady Kim Keon Hee.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Han’s refusal to formally appoint the three judges proves that he “does not have the will or qualification to uphold the constitution”, the Democratic party’s floor leader said. 


South Korea's opposition Democratic Party said on Thursday (December 26) that it filed an impeachment motion against the acting President Han Duck-soo over an escalating dispute about the composition of the Constitutional Court, which would decide whether to remove his predecessor from office. South Korea has been facing political turmoil since President Yoon Suk Yeol imposed martial law on December 3, after which he was impeached. The parliament took away Yoon's duties on December 14, however, a constitutional court ruling upholding the decision is required to complete the impeachment process. Also read: South Korea opposition considering impeachment of acting president over refusal to meet party demand The court is currently short of three judges. However, it can move forward with its six members on the bench, but a single dissenting vote would reinstate Yoon in power. Now, the Democratic Party wants Han to approve three more nominees to fill the nine-member bench, which he has refused to do so far. Following this, the opposition party said that Han should be impeached too. “We have filed the motion...and will report it to the plenary session today,” MP Park Sung-joon said of the action against Han. “We will put it to a vote tomorrow.” Han’s refusal to formally appoint the three judges proves that he “does not have the will or qualification to uphold the constitution”, the Democratic Party’s floor leader, Park Chan-dae, said. Also read: Thousands rally in South Korea, protesting against President Yoon's impeachment, blame rigged elections 'Compromise on nominees' Meanwhile, Han said that he would certify the judges' appointments only if his ruling party and the opposition compromise on the nominees. “The consistent principle embedded in our constitution and laws is to refrain from exercising significant exclusive presidential powers, including the appointment of constitutional institutions,” Han said. Also read: South Korean president fails to show up before corruption watchdog over martial law fiasco “A consensus between the ruling and opposition parties in the national assembly, representing the people, must first be reached,” he added. If the impeachment happens, it would be the first time in Korean history that both the president and the prime minister, the two key figures in the government body, would have been ousted by the parliament. Notably, in place of Han, finance minister Choi Sang-mok would be appointed as acting president. Moreover, the opposition has accused Han of violating his duty as acting president as he refused to formally appoint the judges and sign into law special bills to investigate his impeached predecessor Yoon Suk Yeol and first lady Kim Keon Hee. (With inputs from agencies)

S Korea opposition files impeachment motion against acting president

The president of the Cambodian opposition party, Sun Chanthy, was sentenced to two years in jail on Thursday (Dec 26) and was also barred from elections for inciting social unrest. This is the latest in a series of alleged cases in which activists are being silenced for criticising.&nbsp;
Chanthy was arrested and charged in May after he met his supporters in Japan. Police say that he spreads false information on social media and that his arrest has nothing to do with politics.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-taiwan-mayor-charged-in-bribery-scandal-opposition-cries-political-prosecution-8567850" aria-label="Former Taiwan mayor charged in bribery scandal; opposition cries &lsquo;political prosecution&rsquo;">Former Taiwan mayor charged in bribery scandal; opposition cries &lsquo;political prosecution&rsquo;</a>
His lawyer said that he was sentenced in absentia as he could not travel from a provincial prison to attend court in Phnom Penh as he suffers from travel sickness.&nbsp;
In at least four decades, the Cambodian People's Party has sentenced numerous politicians, journalists, and labour and environmental activists who spoke against the government.&nbsp;
For years, the ruling party has denied allowing free speech and has cracked down on its opponents.&nbsp;
<h3>102 arrested in 2024&nbsp;</h3>
In 2023, Sun Chanthy formed the Nation Power Party after Cambodia's only opposition party, called the Candlelight Party, was banned from an election, and the CPP ended up winning.&nbsp;
According to human rights group LICADHO, 102 people have been arrested and jailed in Cambodia in 2024, along with 6 still in detention.&nbsp;
<h3>An authoritarian government&nbsp;</h3>
Chanthy was a senior personality in the former opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party, but it was dissolved in 2018 before the election.&nbsp;
He later joined the Candlelight Party, which got banned, so he formed his own party.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bodycam-footage-shows-aftermath-of-azerbaijan-flight-crash-8567907" aria-label="Bodycam footage shows aftermath of Azerbaijan flight crash">Bodycam footage shows aftermath of Azerbaijan flight crash</a>
Cambodia's authoritarian leader, Hun Sen, ruled over the country for almost four decades and handed it over to his son Hun Manet just after the election.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

For years Cambodia's ruling party has denied allowing free speech and has cracked down on its opponents. It has arrested almost 102 people in 2024 who spoke against it. 

The president of the Cambodian opposition party, Sun Chanthy, was sentenced to two years in jail on Thursday (Dec 26) and was also barred from elections for inciting social unrest. This is the latest in a series of alleged cases in which activists are being silenced for criticising. Chanthy was arrested and charged in May after he met his supporters in Japan. Police say that he spreads false information on social media and that his arrest has nothing to do with politics. Also read | Former Taiwan mayor charged in bribery scandal; opposition cries ‘political prosecution’ His lawyer said that he was sentenced in absentia as he could not travel from a provincial prison to attend court in Phnom Penh as he suffers from travel sickness. In at least four decades, the Cambodian People's Party has sentenced numerous politicians, journalists, and labour and environmental activists who spoke against the government. For years, the ruling party has denied allowing free speech and has cracked down on its opponents. 102 arrested in 2024 In 2023, Sun Chanthy formed the Nation Power Party after Cambodia's only opposition party, called the Candlelight Party, was banned from an election, and the CPP ended up winning. According to human rights group LICADHO, 102 people have been arrested and jailed in Cambodia in 2024, along with 6 still in detention. An authoritarian government Chanthy was a senior personality in the former opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party, but it was dissolved in 2018 before the election. He later joined the Candlelight Party, which got banned, so he formed his own party. Also read | Bodycam footage shows aftermath of Azerbaijan flight crash Cambodia's authoritarian leader, Hun Sen, ruled over the country for almost four decades and handed it over to his son Hun Manet just after the election. (With inputs from agencies)

Cambodia's opposition leader jailed for 2 years

As climate change reshapes the world, its impact on Christmas celebrations is becoming increasingly evident. From snowy landscapes to tropical warmth, extreme weather patterns are altering how people experience the holiday season.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/kate-middleton-joins-king-charles-and-royal-family-for-christmas-celebrations-after-a-brutal-year-8567639" rel="dofollow">Kate Middleton joins King Charles and royal family for Christmas celebrations after a 'brutal year'</a>
In traditionally cold regions, warmer winters are diminishing the chance of a white Christmas, making once-popular activities like ice skating less feasible. For instance, skiing in the Swiss Alps and other winter destinations has been delayed consecutively this year due to insufficient snow, highlighting the broader effects of rising temperatures.
<h2>White Christmas turns &lsquo;green&rsquo; in some countries</h2>
For instance, this year, like many places across the world, Christmas in the UK is unlikely to be a white one, as milder temperatures and shifting weather patterns continue to impact traditional winter conditions. Experts attribute the lack of snow to the broader effects of climate change, which is causing warmer winters and unpredictable weather events across the globe. The UK has experienced relatively high temperatures for December, with the Met Office forecasting above-average warmth throughout the festive period. While snowfall is still possible in some regions, it remains unlikely, especially in southern parts of the country, where rain and frost are more common than snow. In recent years, the frequency of &ldquo;white Christmases&rdquo; in the UK has been decreasing, a trend that experts warn could become more pronounced as global temperatures rise. The changing climate is also affecting other winter activities, such as skiing in the Scottish Highlands, which has faced delays due to insufficient snow.
<h2>Christmas on Thin Ice: How climate change is reshaping holiday traditions</h2>
Climate change is increasingly impacting Christmas traditions, from snowy celebrations to festive foods. Rising temperatures are turning white Christmases into green ones, while &ldquo;Christmas typhoons&rdquo; are becoming more frequent in places like the Philippines, which has seen a rise of more than 200% since 2012. Christmas trees, too, are struggling, with warmer weather causing them to turn brown earlier.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-never-had-christmas-dinner-with-family-says-a-teenager-with-a-rare-condition-called-misophonia-786680" rel="dofollow">'I never had Christmas dinner with family', says teenager with rare condition called 'misophonia&rsquo;</a>
Food and drink, staples of the holiday season, are also affected. Climate change is altering the flavour profiles of popular items like Sriracha sauce, beer, and coffee, impacting their taste and availability. For example, coffee production in regions like Brazil is suffering due to unpredictable weather patterns, with droughts and excessive rainfall reducing the quality and yield of coffee beans.&nbsp;
<h2>Foggy mornings and snowy peaks, says the IMD</h2>
As India and the world are celebrating Christmas and the New Year approaches, Himachal Pradesh has become a popular destination for tourists seeking a winter retreat. The state's stunning hills are now a winter wonderland. These extreme weather conditions are expected to persist until Thursday, posing challenges for both tourists and locals, drawing visitors from all over India. However, the recent snowfall has caused road disruptions, including the closure of key national highways. Major tourist spots like Shimla, Manali, Kullu, and Dharamshala are witnessing a surge in visitors, with snow-covered landscapes being the primary attraction. The tourism sector has been significantly affected, with hotel occupancy in Shimla rising to over 70% and room bookings increasing by 30% following the snowfall. The picturesque scenes of snow-covered streets and hills have gone viral on social media, bringing even more tourists to the region.&nbsp;
Apart from Himachal, Kashmir also has severe winter conditions, with fresh snowfall in the higher reaches and temperatures plunging well below freezing. Srinagar recorded a low of minus -7.5 degrees Celsius, while other areas like Pahalgam and Gulmarg reported even colder temperatures. The extreme cold has caused water supply lines to freeze and ice to form on water bodies. The region is currently experiencing 'Chillai-Kalan,' the harshest winter phase, expected to last until December 31. The Meteorological Department has forecast further temperature drops, worsening the already intense winter conditions.
<h2>Not-So-Winter Wonderland: How climate change is melting the magic of northern India&rsquo;s Christmas</h2>
Due to climate change, snowfall patterns have become increasingly unpredictable. A 2019 study by the IMD revealed a 40% decrease in snowfall in key hill stations like Shimla and Manali over the past 50 years, and warmer temperatures have made it less likely for these areas to experience consistent snowfalls during the Christmas period. As a result, while a white Christmas remains a possibility in certain northern regions, it is not a reliable event, with decreasing snowfall observed over the years.
<h2>Southern India is bearing the brunt, too!</h2>
Climate change is affecting Christmas in Southern India by bringing higher temperatures, unpredictable rainfall, and more extreme weather events. The usual cool December weather is warming, with temperatures increasing by 1-2&deg;C in several areas. Unstable rainfall and severe storms, including cyclones and floods, disrupt outdoor festivities and travel. Additionally, changing climate patterns impact local agriculture, raising the cost of essential holiday ingredients. Coastal tourism is also at risk due to rising sea levels and erosion. These shifts are making the Christmas season less reliable and altering the traditional festive experience in Southern India.

Climate change is increasingly impacting Christmas traditions, from snowy celebrations to festive foods. 

As climate change reshapes the world, its impact on Christmas celebrations is becoming increasingly evident. From snowy landscapes to tropical warmth, extreme weather patterns are altering how people experience the holiday season. Also read | Kate Middleton joins King Charles and royal family for Christmas celebrations after a 'brutal year' In traditionally cold regions, warmer winters are diminishing the chance of a white Christmas, making once-popular activities like ice skating less feasible. For instance, skiing in the Swiss Alps and other winter destinations has been delayed consecutively this year due to insufficient snow, highlighting the broader effects of rising temperatures. White Christmas turns ‘green’ in some countries For instance, this year, like many places across the world, Christmas in the UK is unlikely to be a white one, as milder temperatures and shifting weather patterns continue to impact traditional winter conditions. Experts attribute the lack of snow to the broader effects of climate change, which is causing warmer winters and unpredictable weather events across the globe. The UK has experienced relatively high temperatures for December, with the Met Office forecasting above-average warmth throughout the festive period. While snowfall is still possible in some regions, it remains unlikely, especially in southern parts of the country, where rain and frost are more common than snow. In recent years, the frequency of “white Christmases” in the UK has been decreasing, a trend that experts warn could become more pronounced as global temperatures rise. The changing climate is also affecting other winter activities, such as skiing in the Scottish Highlands, which has faced delays due to insufficient snow. Christmas on Thin Ice: How climate change is reshaping holiday traditions Climate change is increasingly impacting Christmas traditions, from snowy celebrations to festive foods. Rising temperatures are turning white Christmases into green ones, while “Christmas typhoons” are becoming more frequent in places like the Philippines, which has seen a rise of more than 200% since 2012. Christmas trees, too, are struggling, with warmer weather causing them to turn brown earlier. Also read | 'I never had Christmas dinner with family', says teenager with rare condition called 'misophonia’ Food and drink, staples of the holiday season, are also affected. Climate change is altering the flavour profiles of popular items like Sriracha sauce, beer, and coffee, impacting their taste and availability. For example, coffee production in regions like Brazil is suffering due to unpredictable weather patterns, with droughts and excessive rainfall reducing the quality and yield of coffee beans. Foggy mornings and snowy peaks, says the IMD As India and the world are celebrating Christmas and the New Year approaches, Himachal Pradesh has become a popular destination for tourists seeking a winter retreat. The state's stunning hills are now a winter wonderland. These extreme weather conditions are expected to persist until Thursday, posing challenges for both tourists and locals, drawing visitors from all over India. However, the recent snowfall has caused road disruptions, including the closure of key national highways. Major tourist spots like Shimla, Manali, Kullu, and Dharamshala are witnessing a surge in visitors, with snow-covered landscapes being the primary attraction. The tourism sector has been significantly affected, with hotel occupancy in Shimla rising to over 70% and room bookings increasing by 30% following the snowfall. The picturesque scenes of snow-covered streets and hills have gone viral on social media, bringing even more tourists to the region. Apart from Himachal, Kashmir also has severe winter conditions, with fresh snowfall in the higher reaches and temperatures plunging well below freezing. Srinagar recorded a low of minus -7.5 degrees Celsius, while other areas like Pahalgam and Gulmarg reported even colder temperatures. The extreme cold has caused water supply lines to freeze and ice to form on water bodies. The region is currently experiencing 'Chillai-Kalan,' the harshest winter phase, expected to last until December 31. The Meteorological Department has forecast further temperature drops, worsening the already intense winter conditions. Not-So-Winter Wonderland: How climate change is melting the magic of northern India’s Christmas Due to climate change, snowfall patterns have become increasingly unpredictable. A 2019 study by the IMD revealed a 40% decrease in snowfall in key hill stations like Shimla and Manali over the past 50 years, and warmer temperatures have made it less likely for these areas to experience consistent snowfalls during the Christmas period. As a result, while a white Christmas remains a possibility in certain northern regions, it is not a reliable event, with decreasing snowfall observed over the years. Southern India is bearing the brunt, too! Climate change is affecting Christmas in Southern India by bringing higher temperatures, unpredictable rainfall, and more extreme weather events. The usual cool December weather is warming, with temperatures increasing by 1-2°C in several areas. Unstable rainfall and severe storms, including cyclones and floods, disrupt outdoor festivities and travel. Additionally, changing climate patterns impact local agriculture, raising the cost of essential holiday ingredients. Coastal tourism is also at risk due to rising sea levels and erosion. These shifts are making the Christmas season less reliable and altering the traditional festive experience in Southern India.

Hoping for a white Christmas: Well, it's turning green!

Many people dream of a white Christmas, but unfortunately, we may have to become used to a warm Christmas instead due to climate change. Driven primarily by humanity's mass burning of fossil fuels, the decline in days below freezing threatens tourism, the economy, and cultures. But how does climate change impact white Christmases?

Northern Hemisphere snow cover hits record low

The boy injured in the Sandhya theatre incident during the premiere of Pushpa 2 in Telangana's Hyderabad has responded after 20 days, his father said on Tuesday. Watch to know more.

‘Pushpa 2’ stampede 9-year-old boy injured in shows signs of improvement

Looks like it has now become fashionable in Canada to blame everything on migrants, particularly Indians.&nbsp;
The latest is a post shared on the social media platform X where a man in Ontario's Sault Ste. Marie could be heard ranting about the trash scattered in his neighbourhood.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-amends-express-entry-system-likely-to-impact-indian-aspirants-8567568" rel="dofollow">Canada amends Express Entry system, likely to impact Indian aspirants</a>
The 25-second-long video, which was originally uploaded on TikTok, showed the man saying, "This is the neighbourhood I grew up in. It used to be a beautiful neighbourhood. It used to be a really good place to live."
"Just disgusting," the man added to the trash lying around.&nbsp;
<h2>The anti-India allegation and rant</h2>
The text on the video reads, "International students illegally dumping garbage in Sault Ste. Marie." An emoji at the beginning of the text showed the Indian flag and the face of a man wearing a turban, possibly indicating Sikh men.
The video on X was posted by Chris987612345, a handle that shares updates on Canadian immigration, politics, and housing affairs.
Here's a look at the video. Disclaimer: WION cannot verify the authenticity of the video
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Indian International Students destroying communities across Canada <a href="https://t.co/ZyOF9Q2Uc1">pic.twitter.com/ZyOF9Q2Uc1</a>
&mdash; Chris 🇨🇦 (@Chris987612345) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chris987612345/status/1870864880682864658?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2024</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The video received mixed reactions. The majority of the commentators (of the post on X) were quick to point their fingers at Indians.
"You import Indians you become India. Good luck Canada," one X user commented. "This is normal for Indian people. They&rsquo;re used to living in sh*t," another user said.&nbsp;
"It's in their culture to be filthy...." a third user said.
<h2>The criticism of the anti-India rant</h2>
Some users were also quick to criticise the anti-India rant on the video. "Been seeing white people doing this to indigenous peoples lands for as long as I&rsquo;ve been alive. You&rsquo;re all just racists," a user commented.
One user, without getting into the debate of who scattered the garbage, said, "Seems the city is slacking in their pickup services?"
(With inputs from agencies)

As the video the trash seen in a city in Ontario went viral, majority of the social media users were quick to point their fingers on Indians. 

Looks like it has now become fashionable in Canada to blame everything on migrants, particularly Indians. The latest is a post shared on the social media platform X where a man in Ontario's Sault Ste. Marie could be heard ranting about the trash scattered in his neighbourhood. Also read | Canada amends Express Entry system, likely to impact Indian aspirants The 25-second-long video, which was originally uploaded on TikTok, showed the man saying, "This is the neighbourhood I grew up in. It used to be a beautiful neighbourhood. It used to be a really good place to live." "Just disgusting," the man added to the trash lying around. The anti-India allegation and rant The text on the video reads, "International students illegally dumping garbage in Sault Ste. Marie." An emoji at the beginning of the text showed the Indian flag and the face of a man wearing a turban, possibly indicating Sikh men. The video on X was posted by Chris987612345, a handle that shares updates on Canadian immigration, politics, and housing affairs. Here's a look at the video. Disclaimer: WION cannot verify the authenticity of the video Indian International Students destroying communities across Canada pic.twitter.com/ZyOF9Q2Uc1 — Chris 🇨🇦 (@Chris987612345) December 22, 2024 The video received mixed reactions. The majority of the commentators (of the post on X) were quick to point their fingers at Indians. "You import Indians you become India. Good luck Canada," one X user commented. "This is normal for Indian people. They’re used to living in sh*t," another user said. "It's in their culture to be filthy...." a third user said. The criticism of the anti-India rant Some users were also quick to criticise the anti-India rant on the video. "Been seeing white people doing this to indigenous peoples lands for as long as I’ve been alive. You’re all just racists," a user commented. One user, without getting into the debate of who scattered the garbage, said, "Seems the city is slacking in their pickup services?" (With inputs from agencies)

A Canadian shares video of trash-filled snow, and anti-India comments flood his X post

A Syria war monitor said 17 people were killed Wednesday in clashes in Tartus province after security forces sought to arrest an officer under deposed leader Bashar al-Assad who was linked to a notorious prison.

Who Is Mohammed Kanjo Hassan?

The Russian cargo ship that capsized in the Mediterranean Sea after an explosion was a “terrorist attack”, the vessel’s state-owned company said on Wednesday.

Russia: Cargo ship blast a 'terrorist attack'

Amidst the rising tensions between India and China, Beijing on Thursday (Dec 26) approved the construction of the world's largest dam, a colossal hydropower project, on the Brahmaputra River in Tibet close to the Indian border.&nbsp;
China-based Xinhua reported that it is said to be the planet's biggest infra project, costing USD 137 billion and potentially producing three times more energy than the Three Gorges Dam.&nbsp;
The major hydropower project is set to be built in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo, the Tibetan name for the Brahmaputra River.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-can-push-strategic-flooding-into-india-with-proposed-brahmaputra-great-bend-dam-report-warns-746396">China can push &lsquo;strategic flooding&rsquo; into India with proposed Brahmaputra Great Bend Dam, report warns</a>
According to the 2020 estimate provided by the Power Construction Corp of China, the dam could generate 300 billion kilowatt hours of electricity annually.&nbsp;
Notably, the construction of Three Gorges was done by resettling 1.4 million people.&nbsp;
However, the authorities have not indicated yet how many people would be required to be displaced and how it would affect the local ecosystem.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-china-discuss-resumption-of-kailash-mansarovar-yatra-direct-flights-on-sidelines-of-g20-summit-777426">India, China discuss resumption of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, direct flights on sidelines of G20 Summit</a>
Moreover, the total investment in the dam could exceed USD 137 billion, the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post reported.&nbsp;
The Brahmaputra dam was part of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) and National Economic and Social Development and the Long-Range Objectives Through the Year 2035 adopted by Plenum.&nbsp;
Concerns were raised in India, saying that this could help strengthen China's control of the water flow, its size, and its scale.&nbsp;
Moreover, it could further enable China to release large amounts of water flooding border areas in times of hostilities.&nbsp;
Notably, India is also building a dam over Brahmaputra in Arunachal Pradesh. Earlier also, India and Bangladesh have raised concerns over the building of dam.&nbsp;
India raised concerns that such kinds of Chinese projects in the region could trigger flash floods or create water scarcity downstream.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

It is said to be the planet's biggest infra project, which will cost USD 137 billion and could produce three times more energy than the Three Gorges Dam

Amidst the rising tensions between India and China, Beijing on Thursday (Dec 26) approved the construction of the world's largest dam, a colossal hydropower project, on the Brahmaputra River in Tibet close to the Indian border. China-based Xinhua reported that it is said to be the planet's biggest infra project, costing USD 137 billion and potentially producing three times more energy than the Three Gorges Dam. The major hydropower project is set to be built in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo, the Tibetan name for the Brahmaputra River. Also read: China can push ‘strategic flooding’ into India with proposed Brahmaputra Great Bend Dam, report warns According to the 2020 estimate provided by the Power Construction Corp of China, the dam could generate 300 billion kilowatt hours of electricity annually. Notably, the construction of Three Gorges was done by resettling 1.4 million people. However, the authorities have not indicated yet how many people would be required to be displaced and how it would affect the local ecosystem. Also read: India, China discuss resumption of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, direct flights on sidelines of G20 Summit Moreover, the total investment in the dam could exceed USD 137 billion, the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post reported. The Brahmaputra dam was part of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) and National Economic and Social Development and the Long-Range Objectives Through the Year 2035 adopted by Plenum. Concerns were raised in India, saying that this could help strengthen China's control of the water flow, its size, and its scale. Moreover, it could further enable China to release large amounts of water flooding border areas in times of hostilities. Notably, India is also building a dam over Brahmaputra in Arunachal Pradesh. Earlier also, India and Bangladesh have raised concerns over the building of dam. India raised concerns that such kinds of Chinese projects in the region could trigger flash floods or create water scarcity downstream. (With inputs from agencies)

China approves world's largest dam on Brahmaputra river

Bodycam footage of Kazakhastan rescuers showed a distressing situation after the crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines plane. The incident that occurred on Wednesday (Dec 26) killed 38 people. The circulated video showed the horrible aftermath of the crash and the remains of the plane, along with injured passengers being rescued by the team.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-houthis-uncover-mossad-cia-spy-network-as-israel-shifts-focus-to-yemen-8566732" aria-label="Houthis &lsquo;uncover&rsquo; Mossad, CIA spy network as Israel shifts focus to Yemen">Houthis &lsquo;uncover&rsquo; Mossad, CIA spy network as Israel shifts focus to Yemen</a>
Another footage showed firefighters running towards the plane and extinguishing the fire and the already destroyed parts of the plane.&nbsp;
The videos also showed pieces of clothing scattered on the ground that must belong to people who died in the crash. The Kazakh transport ministry informed that the crashed plane was carrying 37 people from Azerbaijan, 16 Russians, six from Kazakhastan, and three from Kyrgyzstan besides crew.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Eyewitness video shows rescuers pulling survivors from the Azerbaijan Airlines crash near Akatu, Kazakhstan . . . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kazakhstan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kazakhstan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Azerbaijan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Azerbaijan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AzerbaijanAirlines?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AzerbaijanAirlines</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Baku?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Baku</a> <a href="https://t.co/foFAVR2RbL">pic.twitter.com/foFAVR2RbL</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1871861763622441423?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2024</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Flight Radar website showed the plane was flying away from its directed route and was crossing the Caspian Sea. It further showed it circling over the area where it crashed, near Aktu in Kazakhstan.&nbsp;
Various purported videos by the passengers onboard showed the chaotic scene inside the plane before and after its crash. Another viral video showed a man praying and recording himself as some sort of last message when the plane was about to crash.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fraudsters-in-china-take-cue-from-squid-games-to-prey-on-indebted-8567266" aria-label="Real-life Squid Games?: Fraudsters in China take cue from South Korean TV series to prey on indebted">Real-life Squid Games?: Fraudsters in China take cue from South Korean TV series to prey on indebted</a>
The plane, an Embraer 190 jet, was travelling from Azerbaijan's Baku to Russia's Grozny. It was rerouted from its fixed route due to dense fog, it was reported. It was carrying around 62 passengers and five crew members. It was forced to make an emergency landing. Around 29 survivors have been rescued by the authorities.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

The plane, The Embraer 190 jet, was travelling from Azerbaijan's Baku to Russia's Grozny. It was rerouted from its fixed route due to a dense fog, it was reported.

Bodycam footage of Kazakhastan rescuers showed a distressing situation after the crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines plane. The incident that occurred on Wednesday (Dec 26) killed 38 people. The circulated video showed the horrible aftermath of the crash and the remains of the plane, along with injured passengers being rescued by the team. Also read | Houthis ‘uncover’ Mossad, CIA spy network as Israel shifts focus to Yemen Another footage showed firefighters running towards the plane and extinguishing the fire and the already destroyed parts of the plane. The videos also showed pieces of clothing scattered on the ground that must belong to people who died in the crash. The Kazakh transport ministry informed that the crashed plane was carrying 37 people from Azerbaijan, 16 Russians, six from Kazakhastan, and three from Kyrgyzstan besides crew. Eyewitness video shows rescuers pulling survivors from the Azerbaijan Airlines crash near Akatu, Kazakhstan . . . . .#Kazakhstan #Azerbaijan #AzerbaijanAirlines #Baku pic.twitter.com/foFAVR2RbL — WION (@WIONews) December 25, 2024 The Flight Radar website showed the plane was flying away from its directed route and was crossing the Caspian Sea. It further showed it circling over the area where it crashed, near Aktu in Kazakhstan. Various purported videos by the passengers onboard showed the chaotic scene inside the plane before and after its crash. Another viral video showed a man praying and recording himself as some sort of last message when the plane was about to crash. Also read | Real-life Squid Games?: Fraudsters in China take cue from South Korean TV series to prey on indebted The plane, an Embraer 190 jet, was travelling from Azerbaijan's Baku to Russia's Grozny. It was rerouted from its fixed route due to dense fog, it was reported. It was carrying around 62 passengers and five crew members. It was forced to make an emergency landing. Around 29 survivors have been rescued by the authorities. (With inputs from agencies)

Bodycam footage shows aftermath of Azerbaijan flight crash

Taiwan prosecutors have charged a former mayor of Taipei who heads a small opposition party with accepting T$17.1 million ($522,392) in bribes over a major property development in the capital and misuse of political donations.
Prosecutors asked for a combined total of more than 28 years in prison for Ko Wen-je, saying he had helped a conglomerate "illegally benefit" to the tune of billions of Taiwan dollars. He also embezzled tens of millions in political donations, the Taipei District Prosecutors Office said in a statement on Thursday.
Also read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-airlines-hit-by-cyberattack-flights-may-be-affected-8566978" class="editor-rtfLink" rel="noopener">Japan Airlines hit by cyberattack, flights may be affected</a>
Ko, mayor from 2014 to 2022 who came third in January's presidential election, was arrested in August after investigators raided his home and party and questioned him for hours.
Reuters was not able to reach Ko for comment, who is currently detained. Ko has previously denied any wrongdoing in the property case, which&nbsp;involves approvals given for a shopping centre project when he was the mayor.
The Taiwan People's Party (TPP), which was founded by Ko, told a media briefing that the prosecutors failed to offer concrete evidence to support Ko's bribery charges&nbsp;and said it was a "political prosecution" and called for his release.
Also read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/passenger-captures-moments-before-and-after-azerbaijan-airlines-plane-crash-8566817" class="editor-rtfLink" rel="noopener">Video: Passenger captures Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash that killed 38</a>
Ko and several other TPP members were also charged for the misuse of political donations to the party, including embezzling donations of more than T$68 million.
He and the TPP have previously acknowledged that campaign funds during the presidential campaign were misreported.
The TPP said Ko did not embezzle any political donations, which it said were used according to Taiwanese laws.
Ko has been widely expected to seek the presidency again at the next election in 2028. But opinion polls show that the scandals have hammered support for him and the TPP, which he founded in 2019 in an attempt to create a third force in Taiwanese politics.
The TPP has only eight lawmakers in Taiwan's 113-seat parliament but has an outsized role as neither the ruling Democratic Progressive Party nor the largest opposition party, the Kuomintang, has a majority.
($1 = 32.7340 Taiwan dollars)
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Prosecutors asked for a combined total of more than 28 years in prison for Ko Wen-je, saying he had helped a conglomerate "illegally benefit" to the tune of billions of Taiwan dollars.

Taiwan prosecutors have charged a former mayor of Taipei who heads a small opposition party with accepting T$17.1 million ($522,392) in bribes over a major property development in the capital and misuse of political donations. Prosecutors asked for a combined total of more than 28 years in prison for Ko Wen-je, saying he had helped a conglomerate "illegally benefit" to the tune of billions of Taiwan dollars. He also embezzled tens of millions in political donations, the Taipei District Prosecutors Office said in a statement on Thursday. Also read: Japan Airlines hit by cyberattack, flights may be affected Ko, mayor from 2014 to 2022 who came third in January's presidential election, was arrested in August after investigators raided his home and party and questioned him for hours. Reuters was not able to reach Ko for comment, who is currently detained. Ko has previously denied any wrongdoing in the property case, which involves approvals given for a shopping centre project when he was the mayor. The Taiwan People's Party (TPP), which was founded by Ko, told a media briefing that the prosecutors failed to offer concrete evidence to support Ko's bribery charges and said it was a "political prosecution" and called for his release. Also read: Video: Passenger captures Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash that killed 38 Ko and several other TPP members were also charged for the misuse of political donations to the party, including embezzling donations of more than T$68 million. He and the TPP have previously acknowledged that campaign funds during the presidential campaign were misreported. The TPP said Ko did not embezzle any political donations, which it said were used according to Taiwanese laws. Ko has been widely expected to seek the presidency again at the next election in 2028. But opinion polls show that the scandals have hammered support for him and the TPP, which he founded in 2019 in an attempt to create a third force in Taiwanese politics. The TPP has only eight lawmakers in Taiwan's 113-seat parliament but has an outsized role as neither the ruling Democratic Progressive Party nor the largest opposition party, the Kuomintang, has a majority. ($1 = 32.7340 Taiwan dollars) Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Former Taiwan mayor charged in bribery scandal; opposition cries ‘political prosecution’

Artificial intelligence and variable technologies are transforming the healthcare sector. It is offering innovative solutions to age-old challenges. AI is now going to help in the diagnosis and treatment of atopic dermatitis. Watch in for more details!

AI boosts healthcare sector; wearable devices help in continuous heart health tracking

Hawaii's Kilauea volcano erupts gold-like lava on Christmas day. Watch in for more details!

Hawaii's Kilauea volcano erupts, lava turns gold in Christmas eruption

At least 14 interior ministry troops were killed in an "ambush" by supporters of ousted President Bashar al-Assad in the west of the country, Syria&rsquo;s new rebel-led authorities have reported.
The attack, which also left 10 personnel injured, happened on Tuesday (December 26) near the coastal city of Tartous, a stronghold of Assad's minority Alawite Muslim sect.
<h2>What happened?</h2>
The incident took place when security forces attempted to arrest a former regime officer who was one of the accused "responsible for the crimes of the Saydnaya prison,&rdquo; a detention facility near Damascus. 
Also read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/15000-devices-fail-to-detonate-in-israels-explosive-pager-operation-against-hezbollah-report-8567156" class="editor-rtfLink" rel="noopener">15,000 devices failed to explode during Israel's pager operation against Hezbollah: Report</a>
According to the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the officer, identified as Mohammed Kanjo Hassan, was responsible for issuing "death sentences and arbitrary judgments against thousands of prisoners."
The Observatory reported that Hassan&rsquo;s brother and other armed supporters intercepted the security forces, setting up an ambush near the village and targeting a patrol vehicle.
"14 interior ministry personnel were killed and 10 others wounded after... a treacherous ambush by remnants of the criminal regime" in Tartus province "while performing their tasks of maintaining security and safety," Syria&rsquo;s new Interior Minister, Mohammed Abdel Rahman, said.
Also read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-who-is-the-ttp-whose-camps-were-struck-by-pakistan-in-afghanistan-8566893" class="editor-rtfLink" rel="noopener">Explained: Who is the TTP whose camps were struck by Pakistan in Afghanistan?</a>
The troops targeted in the ambush were members of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the group that led a rebel offensive earlier this month, overthrowing Assad&rsquo;s government. 
Assad fled Syria on December 8 after an 11-day HTS-led offensive. The former president, who ruled Syria since 2000 after succeeding his father, Hafez al-Assad, left for Russia, where the Kremlin later confirmed he was granted political asylum.
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

"14 interior ministry personnel were killed and 10 others wounded after... a treacherous ambush by remnants of the criminal regime," Syria’s new Interior Minister said.

At least 14 interior ministry troops were killed in an "ambush" by supporters of ousted President Bashar al-Assad in the west of the country, Syria’s new rebel-led authorities have reported. The attack, which also left 10 personnel injured, happened on Tuesday (December 26) near the coastal city of Tartous, a stronghold of Assad's minority Alawite Muslim sect. What happened? The incident took place when security forces attempted to arrest a former regime officer who was one of the accused "responsible for the crimes of the Saydnaya prison,” a detention facility near Damascus. Also read: 15,000 devices failed to explode during Israel's pager operation against Hezbollah: Report According to the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the officer, identified as Mohammed Kanjo Hassan, was responsible for issuing "death sentences and arbitrary judgments against thousands of prisoners." The Observatory reported that Hassan’s brother and other armed supporters intercepted the security forces, setting up an ambush near the village and targeting a patrol vehicle. "14 interior ministry personnel were killed and 10 others wounded after... a treacherous ambush by remnants of the criminal regime" in Tartus province "while performing their tasks of maintaining security and safety," Syria’s new Interior Minister, Mohammed Abdel Rahman, said. Also read: Explained: Who is the TTP whose camps were struck by Pakistan in Afghanistan? The troops targeted in the ambush were members of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the group that led a rebel offensive earlier this month, overthrowing Assad’s government. Assad fled Syria on December 8 after an 11-day HTS-led offensive. The former president, who ruled Syria since 2000 after succeeding his father, Hafez al-Assad, left for Russia, where the Kremlin later confirmed he was granted political asylum. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Assad loyalists kill 14 in 'ambush attack,' claim Syria's new ruling forces

Donald Trump’s Christmas Day was not all silent as President-elect put out 34 posts within one hour; he covered holiday greetings, memes, and political opinions. Watch this report for more details!

US President-Elect Trump Fires 34 Posts Over An Hour On Christmas

AI boosts accuracy of skin-related diagnosis

The Israeli Prime Minister said Wednesday that Yemen's Houthi militants will learn the lesson fellow Iran-backed militant groups like Hamas and Hezbollah learned from the Jewish state. Watch this report for more details!

Israeli PM Netanyahu: Houthis Will Learn What Hamas & Hezbollah Have Learned

The Finnish national grid operator Fingrid reported damage to the underwater electricity cable Estlink 2, connecting Finland and Estonia. Watch this report for more details!

Finland-Estonia undersea power cable damaged; investigation launched into Estlink-2 outage

Canada has announced significant changes to its Express Entry system that may result in new challenges for Indian job seekers. The changes are expected to go into effect in the spring of 2025.
According to the statement issued by the Canadian government, candidates applying for permanent residency (PR) will no longer get additional points for their job offers. The move is introduced to help curb fraudulent immigration.
&ldquo;We are taking important steps to reduce fraud while continuing to attract the skilled talent our economy needs,&rdquo; said Marc Miller, Canada's Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-is-teasing-us-expansion-into-panama-greenland-canada-786545" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump Is Teasing US Expansion Into Panama, Greenland &amp; Canada</a>
&ldquo;Immigration has always been a cornerstone of Canada's success, and we remain committed to welcoming the best and brightest to Canada so that everyone has access to the quality jobs, homes and supports they need to thrive,&rdquo; he added.
<h2>What is Canada&rsquo;s Express Entry system?</h2>
The Canadian government allows skilled workers to apply for PR through online applications. Under the current Express Entry system, applicants having job offers can earn an additional 50 or even 200 points in the comprehensive ranking system (CRS), helping them secure PR more easily.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ed-probes-canadian-colleges-for-trafficking-indians-into-us-8567625" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">ED probes Canadian colleges for trafficking Indians into US</a>
<h2>How will the change impact applicants?</h2>
If the CRS points are removed, candidates pursuing Canadian PR through the Express Entry system will not get an advantage even if they have a job offer, including those who are presently working in the country temporarily.
&ldquo;Once the change is introduced, it will apply to all candidates with job offers in the pool as well as new candidates entering the pool,&rdquo; the government said.&nbsp;&nbsp;
However, the new rules will not be applicable to those who have already been invited to apply for PR with a CRS score, including jobs and those whose applications for PR to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) are currently under process.
(With inputs from agencies)

According to the statement issued by the Canadian government, candidates applying for permanent residency (PR) will no longer get additional points for their job offers.

Canada has announced significant changes to its Express Entry system that may result in new challenges for Indian job seekers. The changes are expected to go into effect in the spring of 2025. According to the statement issued by the Canadian government, candidates applying for permanent residency (PR) will no longer get additional points for their job offers. The move is introduced to help curb fraudulent immigration. “We are taking important steps to reduce fraud while continuing to attract the skilled talent our economy needs,” said Marc Miller, Canada's Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. Also read | Trump Is Teasing US Expansion Into Panama, Greenland & Canada “Immigration has always been a cornerstone of Canada's success, and we remain committed to welcoming the best and brightest to Canada so that everyone has access to the quality jobs, homes and supports they need to thrive,” he added. What is Canada’s Express Entry system? The Canadian government allows skilled workers to apply for PR through online applications. Under the current Express Entry system, applicants having job offers can earn an additional 50 or even 200 points in the comprehensive ranking system (CRS), helping them secure PR more easily. Also read | ED probes Canadian colleges for trafficking Indians into US How will the change impact applicants? If the CRS points are removed, candidates pursuing Canadian PR through the Express Entry system will not get an advantage even if they have a job offer, including those who are presently working in the country temporarily. “Once the change is introduced, it will apply to all candidates with job offers in the pool as well as new candidates entering the pool,” the government said. However, the new rules will not be applicable to those who have already been invited to apply for PR with a CRS score, including jobs and those whose applications for PR to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) are currently under process. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada amends Express Entry system, likely to impact Indian aspirants

A 72-year-old man from France, Dominique Pelicot, was convicted of drugging his wife, Gisele Pelicot, and allowing men to rape her repeatedly over a decade.
Pelicot received the maximum sentence of 20 years on December 19, 2024, in a case that sparked global outrage over sexual violence.
50 other men were also convicted in the case. Speaking in court, Gisele said, &ldquo;The profile of a rapist is not someone met in a car park late at night. A rapist can also be in the family, among our friends.&rdquo;
While the details of the case have horrified people worldwide, it is not the only instance of violence against women that has made headlines in 2024.
<h2>Kolkata doctor rape case</h2>
In the east Indian state of West Bengal, mass protests erupted after a young doctor was found murdered in the lecture hall at Kolkata&rsquo;s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/a-big-conspiracy-report-finds-no-evidence-of-struggle-resistance-at-kolkata-rg-kar-rape-scene-786381">&lsquo;A big conspiracy?&rsquo; Report finds no evidence of &lsquo;struggle, resistance&rsquo; at Kolkata RG Kar rape scene</a>
She had allegedly been sexually assaulted and tortured before being murdered.
A civic volunteer, Sanjay Roy, was arrested after the incident, and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) later took over the case.
The case brought to the surface the anger over women&rsquo;s safety in India, echoing the widespread protests following the 2012 Delhi gang rape and murder, which became famous as the 'Nirbhaya (fearless) case'.
Although harsher laws were introduced in India after the 2012 incident, there has been little evidence that these laws have reduced sexual violence.
Government data shows that in 2022, over 31,000 cases of rape were reported in India, equating to 85 rapes per day. 
Conviction rates for rape cases have remained low in the country, ranging between 27 per cent and 28 per cent from 2018 to 2022.
<h2>Crime against women in Afghanistan</h2>
In Afghanistan, the ruling Taliban have been accused of using sexual violence as a tool of oppression.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-banned-from-midwife-and-nurse-education-in-new-talibans-decree-report-781269">Afghan women 'banned from midwife and nurse education' in Taliban's new decree: Report</a>
As per a recent report, a human rights activist who fled the country after being raped and tortured in prison was sent a video of her assault as an intimidation tactic.
The video later made headlines and highlighted the crime against women taking place in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.
<h2>Rape&nbsp;being used as a weapon of war in conflict zones</h2>
Violence against women has also&nbsp;been reported in conflict zones. In Sudan, a civil war has led to widespread sexual violence.
Human Rights Watch reported that the Rapid Support Forces have raped multiple women and girls, with some used as sex slaves. A recent investigation documented the cases of 79 survivors aged 7 to 50.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-for-the-first-time-uses-genocide-for-israels-actions-in-gaza-calls-for-investigation-776996">Pope Francis, for the first time, labels Israel's actions in Gaza as 'genocide'; calls for investigation</a>
The United Nations reported nearly 3,700 cases of conflict-related sexual violence in 2023, with 95% of the victims being women and girls. Of these cases, 32% involved children, mostly girls, and 21 incidents targeted LGBTQI individuals.
"In the Sudan and Haiti, women and girls are being brutalized and terrorized by sexual violence committed at gunpoint. In Afghanistan, the systematic assault on, and erasure of, women and their rights is destroying lives and livelihoods. Two years since Russia&rsquo;s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, thousands of displaced and refugee women and girls face a heightened risk of being preyed upon by traffickers,&rdquo; said Pramila Patten, the UN&rsquo;s Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict while presenting the report on 23 April 2024.
In the Middle East, women and girls are disproportionately affected by the ongoing bloodshed, displacement, trauma, and terror, she added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/multiple-onlyfans-accounts-with-suspected-child-sexual-abuse-material-report-786457">Multiple OnlyFans accounts with suspected child sexual abuse material: Report</a>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgia-gay-couple-gets-100-years-in-jail-for-raping-adopted-sons-and-filming-child-pornography-786444"></a>According to the UN, women and children were among the victims of the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas. In 2024, they are more than half of the victims of Israel's invasion of Gaza.
The healthcare system in Gaza is on the brink, with survivors of gender-based violence, pregnant women, and others in desperate need with nowhere to turn, Patten pointed out.
These reports of sexual violence against women in 2024 show a harsh global reality. Sadly, they are just the visible surface of a far deeper crisis, with many more cases hidden by fear and societal stigma. These incidents show the urgent need to address the root causes and ensure accountability.
(With inputs from agencies)

While the details of Gisele Pelicot's case have horrified people worldwide, it is not the only instance of violence against women that has made headlines in 2024.

A 72-year-old man from France, Dominique Pelicot, was convicted of drugging his wife, Gisele Pelicot, and allowing men to rape her repeatedly over a decade. Pelicot received the maximum sentence of 20 years on December 19, 2024, in a case that sparked global outrage over sexual violence. 50 other men were also convicted in the case. Speaking in court, Gisele said, “The profile of a rapist is not someone met in a car park late at night. A rapist can also be in the family, among our friends.” While the details of the case have horrified people worldwide, it is not the only instance of violence against women that has made headlines in 2024. Kolkata doctor rape case In the east Indian state of West Bengal, mass protests erupted after a young doctor was found murdered in the lecture hall at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9. Also read: ‘A big conspiracy?’ Report finds no evidence of ‘struggle, resistance’ at Kolkata RG Kar rape scene She had allegedly been sexually assaulted and tortured before being murdered. A civic volunteer, Sanjay Roy, was arrested after the incident, and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) later took over the case. The case brought to the surface the anger over women’s safety in India, echoing the widespread protests following the 2012 Delhi gang rape and murder, which became famous as the 'Nirbhaya (fearless) case'. Although harsher laws were introduced in India after the 2012 incident, there has been little evidence that these laws have reduced sexual violence. Government data shows that in 2022, over 31,000 cases of rape were reported in India, equating to 85 rapes per day. Conviction rates for rape cases have remained low in the country, ranging between 27 per cent and 28 per cent from 2018 to 2022. Crime against women in Afghanistan In Afghanistan, the ruling Taliban have been accused of using sexual violence as a tool of oppression. Also read: Afghan women 'banned from midwife and nurse education' in Taliban's new decree: Report As per a recent report, a human rights activist who fled the country after being raped and tortured in prison was sent a video of her assault as an intimidation tactic. The video later made headlines and highlighted the crime against women taking place in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. Rape being used as a weapon of war in conflict zones Violence against women has also been reported in conflict zones. In Sudan, a civil war has led to widespread sexual violence. Human Rights Watch reported that the Rapid Support Forces have raped multiple women and girls, with some used as sex slaves. A recent investigation documented the cases of 79 survivors aged 7 to 50. Also read: Pope Francis, for the first time, labels Israel's actions in Gaza as 'genocide'; calls for investigation The United Nations reported nearly 3,700 cases of conflict-related sexual violence in 2023, with 95% of the victims being women and girls. Of these cases, 32% involved children, mostly girls, and 21 incidents targeted LGBTQI individuals. "In the Sudan and Haiti, women and girls are being brutalized and terrorized by sexual violence committed at gunpoint. In Afghanistan, the systematic assault on, and erasure of, women and their rights is destroying lives and livelihoods. Two years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, thousands of displaced and refugee women and girls face a heightened risk of being preyed upon by traffickers,” said Pramila Patten, the UN’s Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict while presenting the report on 23 April 2024. In the Middle East, women and girls are disproportionately affected by the ongoing bloodshed, displacement, trauma, and terror, she added. Also read: Multiple OnlyFans accounts with suspected child sexual abuse material: Report According to the UN, women and children were among the victims of the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas. In 2024, they are more than half of the victims of Israel's invasion of Gaza. The healthcare system in Gaza is on the brink, with survivors of gender-based violence, pregnant women, and others in desperate need with nowhere to turn, Patten pointed out. These reports of sexual violence against women in 2024 show a harsh global reality. Sadly, they are just the visible surface of a far deeper crisis, with many more cases hidden by fear and societal stigma. These incidents show the urgent need to address the root causes and ensure accountability. (With inputs from agencies)

Sexual violence against women in 2024: From Kolkata to Gisele Pelicot rape cases, a year of horrors

In December 2024, Iran passed a set of new laws to promote a "culture of chastity and hijab". If any of the Iranian women would go against these laws, they would either be sentenced to death or sent to jail for 15 years. These severe penalties will apply to those who will be caught &ldquo;promoting nudity, indecency, unveiling, or improper dressing&rdquo;. As per Article 37 of the new law, those who promote "bad dressing" to foreign entities, including international media, would either face 10 years in prison or over $15,000 fine.&nbsp;
If you are surprised reading this, hold your breath.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sexual-violence-against-women-in-2024-from-kolkata-to-gisele-pelicot-rape-cases-a-year-of-horrors-8566863">Sexual violence against women in 2024: From Kolkata to Gisele Pelicot rape cases, a year of horrors</a>
Iran opened a "hijab removal treatment clinic" in November 2024, and the whole and sole purpose of the clinic is to "treat" women who are not ready to accept the hijab for themselves.&nbsp;
All this to keep a woman under the veil forcefully? Yes. So nothing changed even more than a year after Mahsa Amini's case? Sadly not.
When a country like Iran, which aspires to be a Khalifa (leader) for Islamic nations and Muslims across the globe, does such things and cites the religion in its defence, it does show a lot of discrepancies.&nbsp;
It does make a Muslim woman think: has she missed understanding the religion? When something that was supposed to be entirely her decision became something that put her life at stake?&nbsp;
<h3>A reputation tool for the world &nbsp;</h3>
Why was "bad dressing" in front of international media given so much importance in these laws? Is it really about religion or Iran's global image as a political power and its aspiring goals in West Asia for which women are being used? One must think.&nbsp;
<h3>The reactance theory&nbsp;</h3>
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-who-is-the-ttp-whose-camps-were-struck-by-pakistan-in-afghanistan-8566893">Explained: Who is the TTP whose camps were struck by Pakistan in Afghanistan?</a>
Let's talk about the backfire of Iran's "mandatory" laws.&nbsp;
As per psychology's Reactance Theory, the human brain tends to resist and do the opposite of what it is forced to do when something unpleasant and unwanted is imposed on it. Well, that's exactly what is being seen in Iran, where as the country is raising the strict bar of its laws on hijab, the more rebels it is seeing.&nbsp;
Afghanistan or Iran per se made this year a high time to sit back and think why a woman's body is every nation's political power tool.
Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

In 2024, Iran passed laws on hijab that prescribed the death penalty or 15 years in jail for non-compliance. The Islamic nation even set up clinics to "treat" women against hijab.

In December 2024, Iran passed a set of new laws to promote a "culture of chastity and hijab". If any of the Iranian women would go against these laws, they would either be sentenced to death or sent to jail for 15 years. These severe penalties will apply to those who will be caught “promoting nudity, indecency, unveiling, or improper dressing”. As per Article 37 of the new law, those who promote "bad dressing" to foreign entities, including international media, would either face 10 years in prison or over $15,000 fine. If you are surprised reading this, hold your breath. Also read | Sexual violence against women in 2024: From Kolkata to Gisele Pelicot rape cases, a year of horrors Iran opened a "hijab removal treatment clinic" in November 2024, and the whole and sole purpose of the clinic is to "treat" women who are not ready to accept the hijab for themselves. All this to keep a woman under the veil forcefully? Yes. So nothing changed even more than a year after Mahsa Amini's case? Sadly not. When a country like Iran, which aspires to be a Khalifa (leader) for Islamic nations and Muslims across the globe, does such things and cites the religion in its defence, it does show a lot of discrepancies. It does make a Muslim woman think: has she missed understanding the religion? When something that was supposed to be entirely her decision became something that put her life at stake? A reputation tool for the world Why was "bad dressing" in front of international media given so much importance in these laws? Is it really about religion or Iran's global image as a political power and its aspiring goals in West Asia for which women are being used? One must think. The reactance theory Also read | Explained: Who is the TTP whose camps were struck by Pakistan in Afghanistan? Let's talk about the backfire of Iran's "mandatory" laws. As per psychology's Reactance Theory, the human brain tends to resist and do the opposite of what it is forced to do when something unpleasant and unwanted is imposed on it. Well, that's exactly what is being seen in Iran, where as the country is raising the strict bar of its laws on hijab, the more rebels it is seeing. Afghanistan or Iran per se made this year a high time to sit back and think why a woman's body is every nation's political power tool. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

2024 and Iranian women's rights: Has anything changed?

The death toll has risen to 38 after an Azerbaijan Airlines passenger plane crashed near Kazakhstan's Aktau city on Wednesday. Watch to know more.

Azerbaijan Airlines crash: What might have caused Kazakhstan mishap?

Astronauts Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams face extended stay at the ISS due to issues with Boeing Starliner spacecraft. Watch this report for more details!

Is $150 billion technological marvel crippled?

Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Was Azerbaijan plane 'shot down'?

world

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

world news