LIVE
Tue, 09 April 2013
Pak SC issues notice to Gilani over corruption case
Timeline Refresh
23:45 Pak SC issues notice to Gilani over corruption case
Pakistan's supreme court today issued notices to former premier Yousuf Raza Gilani and other officials to respond to allegations that the previous Pakistan Peoples Party-led government closed a probe into corruption in organising the Haj pilgrimage.
A three-judge bench led by Chief Justice Iftikhar Chaudhry, which is investigating a multi-million rupee scam in organising the Haj, also issued notices to the Law Ministry and the Attorney General and directed the respondents to clarify their position regarding the "exemption" granted to the former premier.
The bench observed that the law ministry wrote a letter to the investigation officer, Hussain Asghar, and directed him not to conduct a probe against Gilani as he enjoyed immunity under the constitution.
23:31 UN chief condemns killing of Indian peacekeepers in S Sudan
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon today strongly condemned the killing of five Indian Army personnel in an attack on a convoy of a UN mission in South Sudan, saying that such an act was a war crime and its perpetrators should be brought to justice.
Five Indian Army personnel, including a Lt Colonel were killed today and four injured during the UN peacekeeping mission when their 32-member convoy was attacked in Gurmuck in the volatile state of Jonglei.
23:18 Police register case in attack on Amit Mitra
Delhi Police today registered a case against unknown persons for manhandling West Bengal Finance Minister Amit Mitra outside the Planning Commission office here.
While no arrest has been made yet in the incident, Police registered the case under IPC Sections 186(obstructing public servant in discharge of public functions) and 353 (assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of his duty).
The unknwon persons also faced charges under Section 332 (voluntarily causing hurt to deter public servant from his duty) and under Section 147(rioting).
22:45 Admiral says US can intercept North Korean missile
US defenses could intercept a ballistic missile launched by North Korea, the top US military commander in the Pacific said today as the relationship between the West and the communist government hit its lowest point since the end of the Korean War.
Admiral Samuel Locklear, commander of US Pacific Command, told the Senate Armed Services Committee that Kim Jong Un, the country's young and still relatively untested new leader, has used the past year to consolidate his power.
The admiral said Pyongyang's pursuit of nuclear weapons and long-range ballistic missiles represents a clear threat to the United States and its allies in the region.
22:22 BSP leader's son masterminded murder
The Delhi Police on Tuesday said that the son of murdered BSP leader
Deepak Bhardwaj had admitted that he was dissatisfied with his father's
business deals.
The police today arrested Nitesh, the younger son of Bhardwaj, and has accused him of being the mastermind to murder his father at his sprawling farmhouse -- called Nitesh Kunj -- in south Delhi last month.
Bhardwaj's lawyer, Baljeet, who was privy to details of his land deals, has also been arrested in what the police now call a "web of conspiracies" to kill the real estate tycoon.
The police today arrested Nitesh, the younger son of Bhardwaj, and has accused him of being the mastermind to murder his father at his sprawling farmhouse -- called Nitesh Kunj -- in south Delhi last month.
Bhardwaj's lawyer, Baljeet, who was privy to details of his land deals, has also been arrested in what the police now call a "web of conspiracies" to kill the real estate tycoon.
22:19 Thayil among 6 Indians shortlisted for Commonwealth prizes
Six Indian writers including Jeet Thayil and Jerry Pinto figure in the shortlists for the 2013 Commonwealth Book and Short Story Prizes.
Apart from Thayil (Narcopolis) and Pinto (Em and the Big Hoom), the other Indian writers whose works are among 21books shortlisted for the Commonwealth Book Prize are Nilanjana Roy (The Wildings), Mishi Saran (The Other Side of Light) and Farhad Sorabjee (God on Every Wind).
In the Commonwealth Short Story Prize, Anushka Jasraj's 'Notes from the Ruins' is among the 19 works shortlisted.
The Commonwealth Book Prize is awarded for the best first novel, and the Commonwealth Short Story Prize for the best piece of unpublished short fiction.
Apart from Thayil (Narcopolis) and Pinto (Em and the Big Hoom), the other Indian writers whose works are among 21books shortlisted for the Commonwealth Book Prize are Nilanjana Roy (The Wildings), Mishi Saran (The Other Side of Light) and Farhad Sorabjee (God on Every Wind).
In the Commonwealth Short Story Prize, Anushka Jasraj's 'Notes from the Ruins' is among the 19 works shortlisted.
The Commonwealth Book Prize is awarded for the best first novel, and the Commonwealth Short Story Prize for the best piece of unpublished short fiction.
21:39 Italian PM calls up Dr Singh over marines issue
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Tuesday told his Italian counterpart Mario Monti that a view on specific aspects of the case involving two marines facing murder charges in the country cannot be taken pending investigations.
However, Dr Singh, who received a call from Monti, recalled the clarification given by the Ministry of External Affairs to Italy prior to the return of the marines to India last month.
The telephone call by Italian PM came amid concerns over the slapping of murder charges against the marines, which entails death penalty.
"Prime Minister Singh received a telephone call from the Italian prime minister. During the course of the call, the issue of Italian marines in India was discussed," official sources said.
However, Dr Singh, who received a call from Monti, recalled the clarification given by the Ministry of External Affairs to Italy prior to the return of the marines to India last month.
The telephone call by Italian PM came amid concerns over the slapping of murder charges against the marines, which entails death penalty.
"Prime Minister Singh received a telephone call from the Italian prime minister. During the course of the call, the issue of Italian marines in India was discussed," official sources said.
21:11 Trinamool Cong workers on a rampage in WB
Trinamool Congress workers unleashed violence across Bengal and communist leaders across Pursura, Haripal, Taldangra were attacked on Tuesday evening.
They allegedly ransacked seven Communist Party of India-Marxist offices in Coochbehar, a party office in Danton and one in Barrackpore. A CPI-M-inclined teacher in Daspur too faced the Trinamool wrath.
They allegedly ransacked seven Communist Party of India-Marxist offices in Coochbehar, a party office in Danton and one in Barrackpore. A CPI-M-inclined teacher in Daspur too faced the Trinamool wrath.
21:10 Trinamool rally to protest against SFI for heckling Mamata
Reports our correspondent from Kolkata: Trinamool Congress will organise a rally in protest against Students Federation of India leaders for heckling Bengal West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Finance Minister Amit Mitra at the gate of the planning commission in New Delhi.
It is expected to throw city traffic out of gear. Tomorrow is going to be another trouble-torn day for Kolkata.
The Trinamool Congress will stage dharna at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar tomorrow
It is expected to throw city traffic out of gear. Tomorrow is going to be another trouble-torn day for Kolkata.
The Trinamool Congress will stage dharna at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar tomorrow
20:58 Rs 55 cr invested in Jagan cos through hawala: CBI
PTI reports: Dalmia Cements, named as accused in the CBI chargesheet in
disproportionate assets case against Jaganmohan Reddy, has allegedly
invested Rs 55 crore through hawala route in the cement companies
promoted by the YSR Congress chief.
CBI sources claimed they have got money trail of Rs 55 crore which were allegedly invested by Dalmia Cements in Jagan's company through hawala routes in return for favours received from the state government headed by his father YS Rajasekhara Reddy, popularly known as YSR.
CBI sources claimed they have got money trail of Rs 55 crore which were allegedly invested by Dalmia Cements in Jagan's company through hawala routes in return for favours received from the state government headed by his father YS Rajasekhara Reddy, popularly known as YSR.
20:42
Trinamool Congress workers have allegedly gheraoed former chairperson state women commission, Yashodhara Bagchi's house at Barrackpore.
20:31 Medha Patkar's fast enters sixth day
Social activist Medha Patkar's indefinite fast to protest evictions in the Golibar area in Mumbai and to stop demolitions in the city, entered the sixth day today.
Patkar has alleged that Mumbai's Slum Rehabilitation Scheme was marred by corruption, government indifference and builders' atrocities.
She has demanded that work on the six Slum Rehabilitation Authority projects be stopped till the enquiry in the matter was completed.
Patkar has alleged that Mumbai's Slum Rehabilitation Scheme was marred by corruption, government indifference and builders' atrocities.
She has demanded that work on the six Slum Rehabilitation Authority projects be stopped till the enquiry in the matter was completed.
20:11 Mamata's meeting with PM cancelled
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's meeting with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has been cancelled, reports PTI.
19:11 Rs 55 cr hawala money invested in Jagan cos: CBI
Dalmia Cements, named as accused in the CBI charge sheet in disproportionate assets case against Jaganmohan Reddy, has allegedly invested Rs 55 crore through hawala route in the cement companies promoted by the YSR Congress chief. CBI sources claimed they have got money trail of Rs 55 crore which were allegedly invested by Dalmia Cements in Jagan's company through hawala routes in return for favours received from the state government headed by his father Y S Rajasekhara Reddy, popularly known as YSR.
They said Andhra Pradesh Home Minister Sabita Reddy, who was the Mines Minister in YSR cabinet had allegedly overlooked norms and rules to extend mining leases to Dalmia Cements as quid pro quo for the investments.
They claimed they have managed to establish that off the total Rs 95 crore allegedly invested by Dalmia Cements in companies promoted by Jagan over Rs 55 crore were invested through hawala channels in Raghuram Cements which was later renamed as Bharti Cements.
18:16
On Rediff.com: The woman who refuses to stay at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Read
18:15 Strong earthquake hits southern Iran: USGS
A strong 6.3-magnitude earthquake has hit southern Iran, the US Geological Survey said. The epicenter of the quake, which struck at a depth of 10 kilometers, was located about 90 kilometers southeast of Bandar Bushehr, the USGS said.
18:05 Students won't shower petals on Mamata: CPI(M)
CPI(M) leader Nilotpal Basu reacts to the attack on Trinamool finance minister Amit Mitra. He said he opposed violence in such protests but said Banerjee "should accept that these are public outpourings against the manner in which the students are treated under the Trinamool rule."
"She kept on saying it is a small and petty matter and refused to order a judicial probe.... Do you think that after all this, the students will shower petals on her," Basu said. Reacting to the incident, CPI leader Atul Kumar Anjaan said he "disapproved" of the way the protest was carried out but castigated the Trinamool government in West Bengal for the death of the SFI activist.
"I want to ask what her government has done (in regard to the death case). The way her government, her administration and her police functioned, they killed the student in their custody, it is a matter of shame for all," he said.
"She (Mamata) was herself in student politics and she might have organised such protests, such demonstrations herself. She will herself have to face the wrath of the people when such a gruesome incident has occurred under her rule," Anjaan said.
"She kept on saying it is a small and petty matter and refused to order a judicial probe.... Do you think that after all this, the students will shower petals on her," Basu said. Reacting to the incident, CPI leader Atul Kumar Anjaan said he "disapproved" of the way the protest was carried out but castigated the Trinamool government in West Bengal for the death of the SFI activist.
"I want to ask what her government has done (in regard to the death case). The way her government, her administration and her police functioned, they killed the student in their custody, it is a matter of shame for all," he said.
"She (Mamata) was herself in student politics and she might have organised such protests, such demonstrations herself. She will herself have to face the wrath of the people when such a gruesome incident has occurred under her rule," Anjaan said.
17:59 Hot tea poured on class IV student for being absent
Hot tea was allegedly poured on a class IV student as a punishment for being absent at a government-aided school in north Kolkata.
The parents of the nine-year-old boy have claimed that the hot beverage was poured on him by a sweeper at the instruction of a teacher to punish him for absenteeism.
According to the parents, the boy returned home from school yesterday with burn injuries on the right side of his face and other parts of his body. Stating that the act was deliberate and not an accident, the parents alleged that their son, who was writhing in pain, was hurriedly taken to a state-run hospital by the school authorities without informing them. The school principal remained unavailable for comment.
The parents of the nine-year-old boy have claimed that the hot beverage was poured on him by a sweeper at the instruction of a teacher to punish him for absenteeism.
According to the parents, the boy returned home from school yesterday with burn injuries on the right side of his face and other parts of his body. Stating that the act was deliberate and not an accident, the parents alleged that their son, who was writhing in pain, was hurriedly taken to a state-run hospital by the school authorities without informing them. The school principal remained unavailable for comment.
17:55
Marines want the flag that covered Saddam's statue when it fell 10 years ago. The Marine who owns it says no. Read
17:39 Is Modi Indias Iron Man?
In India, the death of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher has sparked comparisons between the "Iron Lady' and Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi.
Read
Read
17:35 Didi rages on Left attack: They wanted to kill me
Poor Montek Singh Ahluwalia, the soft-spoken, genteel deputy planning commission chairman does not know what hit him. He had to contend with a double whammy -- an angry Mamata Banerjee and a dissatisfied Mamata Banerjee (her demands have not been met). After the protests outside the Yojna Bhavan, the planning commission HQ in New Delhi, Montek says he apologises for the 'unruly protest' outside his office.
Mamata, meanwhile, at a press conference after the meet says the protestors had an iron rod and tried to hit her. "If you can do this at a Planning Commission office, what about elsewhere. They can kill me, but can't stop me," she says.
Mamata, meanwhile, at a press conference after the meet says the protestors had an iron rod and tried to hit her. "If you can do this at a Planning Commission office, what about elsewhere. They can kill me, but can't stop me," she says.
17:22 Urinal in Jalna named after Ajit Pawar
A urinal in Jalna has been named after Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra Ajit Pawar in retribution for his urine remark. A poster with Ajit's photograph was pasted there following which some activists named it after the politician.
This comes three days after Ajit, while referring to a farmer on a hunger fast demanding water be released in dams, said that the only way of releasing water in dams would be to urinate in them.
The remarks drew sharp reactions from several parties. The state Assembly had to be adjourned for a while as the opposition tried to pass a censure motion against him. However, the Speaker on Tuesday rejected that motion. -- IBN Live
This comes three days after Ajit, while referring to a farmer on a hunger fast demanding water be released in dams, said that the only way of releasing water in dams would be to urinate in them.
The remarks drew sharp reactions from several parties. The state Assembly had to be adjourned for a while as the opposition tried to pass a censure motion against him. However, the Speaker on Tuesday rejected that motion. -- IBN Live
17:16
All 5 armymen, UN peacekeepers, were from the 6 Mahar Regiment. 1 officer, 1 JCO and 3 jawans killed in the South Sudan ambush while on duty in South Sudan.
17:15
How a single spy turned Pakistan against the United States. Read
16:57 The Margaret Thatcher I knew: 20 personal insights
What was the former prime minister really like to work with and against, to live with and to help dress? Those who knew her best remember. Awesome read.
And ... a quick read on Keith Joseph, the real intellectual inspiration behind Thatcherism
And ... a quick read on Keith Joseph, the real intellectual inspiration behind Thatcherism
16:44 Hina Rabbani Khar, Pakistan's foreign minister, to step down
Pakistan's highest profile female politician is standing aside at next month's general election so that her father can take back his old seat. Read
16:41
Just in: Queen Elizabeth II will attend Baroness Margaret Thatcher's funeral, breaking royal precedent.
16:32
MEA tweets: India's embassy in touch with United Nations Mission in the Republic of South Sudan (UNMISS) to arrange for the return of the remains of the five Indian peacekeepers killed by rebels in South Sudan.
16:31 Surprise! John has brawn and brain
Anand Mahendra's telling tweet: Chatted with John Abraham while waiting to receive our NDTV Biz awards (John's Creative Entrepreneurship as a film producer was recognised). Have to admit I didn't expect such a hefty brain to be embedded in the brawn...John has a solid vision & understanding of Indie Cinema.
16:29 5 Indian UN peacekeepers ambushed, killed in Sudan
Five peacekeepers from India with the United Nations Mission in the Republic of South Sudan have killed in ambush in Jonglei, says the MEA spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin. Just yesterday, the top United Nations official in South Sudan today urged authorities and communities in Jonglei state to take all necessary steps to prevent inter-communal violence and attacks by armed groups which are threatening civilians and spurring a deadly cycle of violence. More
16:22 'Go back Modi' protests fail to deter Gujarat CM
At least 21 people, mostly belonging to Maoist groups, were arrested from near the hotel where visiting Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi had an interaction with industrialists during the day, reports PTI.
The demonstrators waved black flags and placards with slogans 'Go back Modi' and staged a noisy demonstration in front of the five star hotel in the central business district.
They shouted slogans against Modi saying he was an 'agent of communal forces' and he has 'no right to come to Kolkata'.
The demonstrators waved black flags and placards with slogans 'Go back Modi' and staged a noisy demonstration in front of the five star hotel in the central business district.
They shouted slogans against Modi saying he was an 'agent of communal forces' and he has 'no right to come to Kolkata'.
16:17 Protests over Pawar's 'urniate' remarks refuse to die down
Notwithstanding repeated apologies by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, his controversial remarks on drought and load shedding kept the Maharashtra legislature on the boil with an outraged Opposition disrupting the proceedings for the second day today demanding his ouster.
Meanwhile, a farmer whose protest against water shortage had prompted Pawar's insensitive comments, tried to force his way into Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan's official residence but was whisked away by the police.
Uproarious scenes were witnessed in the two Houses of legislature which saw repeated suspension of proceedings before being adjourned for the day.
The Opposition created a ruckus in the assembly when it sought to bring a censure motion against the Deputy Chief Minister which was rejected by Speaker Dilip Walse Patil. Branding Pawar's remarks as "derogatory", Subhash Desai (Shiv Sena) sought to move the censure motion which was promptly rejected by the Speaker, who said since the NCP leader had apologised the matter stood closed.
Meanwhile, a farmer whose protest against water shortage had prompted Pawar's insensitive comments, tried to force his way into Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan's official residence but was whisked away by the police.
Uproarious scenes were witnessed in the two Houses of legislature which saw repeated suspension of proceedings before being adjourned for the day.
The Opposition created a ruckus in the assembly when it sought to bring a censure motion against the Deputy Chief Minister which was rejected by Speaker Dilip Walse Patil. Branding Pawar's remarks as "derogatory", Subhash Desai (Shiv Sena) sought to move the censure motion which was promptly rejected by the Speaker, who said since the NCP leader had apologised the matter stood closed.
16:13 Didi livid after SFI activists tear WB FM Amit Mitra's shirt
TV reports suggest that SFI activists manhandle West Bengal finance minister Amit Mitra. His shirt has apparently been torn. Mamata was Mitra when he was attacked. Mamata says that the attackers are hooligans.
16:04
Angry and upset at being heckled by the SFI activists Mamata screams: The Left will never come back to power in West Bengal. It is nothing but dirty politics.
16:01 Heckled by Delhi students angry Mamata trashes Left
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was heckled by Students' Federation of India activists protesting the recent death of SFI activist Sudipta Gupta in Kolkata.
Mamata Banerjee is in New Delhi to meet deputy chairman of the Planning Commission Montek Singh Ahluwalia to discuss the state's annual plan. Mamata has drawn up a Rs 29,850-crore annual plan for 2013-14, which is a 15 per cent increase over last year's Rs 25,910 crore.
Mamata is accompanied by her finance minister Amit Mitra.
Mamata Banerjee is in New Delhi to meet deputy chairman of the Planning Commission Montek Singh Ahluwalia to discuss the state's annual plan. Mamata has drawn up a Rs 29,850-crore annual plan for 2013-14, which is a 15 per cent increase over last year's Rs 25,910 crore.
Mamata is accompanied by her finance minister Amit Mitra.
15:39 Yamaha begins work on low-cost bike
Yamaha has set up an all-new R&D centre in Surajpur to drive new product development in India. Yamaha Motor Research & Development India (YMRI), headed by managing director Toshikazu Kobayashi, will be the motorcycle R&D hub in India and is aimed at increasing Yamaha's R&D manufacturing competitiveness in the country. More
15:34 Margaret Thatcher's funeral on April 17: Cameron
Baroness Thatcher's funeral to be held on Wednesday 17 April, says UK prime minister David Cameron
15:28 The IPL, the male gaze and sexism
In the past week, IPL 6 has followed a rather predictable script: four games with last-ball finishes, Chris Gayle going for it as usual, Lalit Modi on twitter overdrive from the confines of his London hideout, Kieron Pollard inexplicably batting at No.6 again, and female reporters being unanimously slammed across social media for their incredibly stupid questions. It is this last bit I'm particularly concerned with. Read
15:21 India listening attentively to Modi: Jaitley
Arun Jaitley, senior BJP leader, who is in Bangalore today said that Narendra Modi was an extremely popular leader and his views were being heard with attention and are being scrutinised by a large section of Indians. Jaitley was in Bangalore to meet with party workers ahead of his party finalising the list for the Karnataka Assembly Elections.
Jaitley however did not comment on whether Modi would be the Prime Ministerial candidate of the BJP.
He said that the party is finalising the list of candidates and hopefully the central election committee would meet in New Delhi this evening. The second list will be released today, he said. -- Vicky Nanjappa
Jaitley however did not comment on whether Modi would be the Prime Ministerial candidate of the BJP.
He said that the party is finalising the list of candidates and hopefully the central election committee would meet in New Delhi this evening. The second list will be released today, he said. -- Vicky Nanjappa
15:17 The Language of Margaret Thatchers Handbags
Handbags speak volumes about the women who carry them -- Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher was no different. Read
And then you have Hina Rabbani Khar's handbags. Sigh.
And then you have Hina Rabbani Khar's handbags. Sigh.
15:14 Filmmakers will wait for Sanjay for Munnabhai 3
Makers of the hit franchise Munnabhai - Raj Kumar Hirani and Vidhu Vinod Chopra - say that they will wait for actor Sanjay Dutt to make the third movie in the series. Dutt is sentenced to five years in jail by the Supreme Court for illegal arms possession during the 1993 serial Mumbai blasts.
The 53-year-old has already served 18 months of his term and will now have to spend three and a half years in jail. Dutt played the role of a lovable goon in two 'Munnabhai' movies - 'Munnabhai MBBS' (2003) and 'Lage Raho Munna Bhai' (2006) - along with Arshad Warsi. The films became the greatest hits of his career.
"The reel Munnabhai will wait for the real Munnabhai. He will indeed walk on the sets of the next Munnabhai as he comes back to us free," Hirani and Chopra said in a statement.
"Just two days back Sanjay Dutt called and said, 'Its tough to be in prison but I'm ready to go there because when I come back... I will experience freedom in its true sense. I will be rid of this monkey who has been sitting on my back for the last twenty years and scaring me. When I walk out of Prison, I want to walk straight onto the sets of Munnabhai," they added. Hirani and Chopra also feel the government should show some leniency towards the actor.
The 53-year-old has already served 18 months of his term and will now have to spend three and a half years in jail. Dutt played the role of a lovable goon in two 'Munnabhai' movies - 'Munnabhai MBBS' (2003) and 'Lage Raho Munna Bhai' (2006) - along with Arshad Warsi. The films became the greatest hits of his career.
"The reel Munnabhai will wait for the real Munnabhai. He will indeed walk on the sets of the next Munnabhai as he comes back to us free," Hirani and Chopra said in a statement.
"Just two days back Sanjay Dutt called and said, 'Its tough to be in prison but I'm ready to go there because when I come back... I will experience freedom in its true sense. I will be rid of this monkey who has been sitting on my back for the last twenty years and scaring me. When I walk out of Prison, I want to walk straight onto the sets of Munnabhai," they added. Hirani and Chopra also feel the government should show some leniency towards the actor.
15:09 Discrimination is a charge to mask state's failure: Congress
The Congress today rejected Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi's charge of discrimination against non-UPA states by the Centre, saying that the blame was put on the central government to cover up a state's failure.
"When a state fails to perform, it blames the Centre to cover up its failure. In the past Jyoti Basu did it and now the present Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is doing the same," WBPCC president Pradip Bhattacharya said while commenting on Modi's statement which echoed Mamata's oft-repeated charge of central discrimination against non-UPA states.
"Our chief minister is speaking in the same tune as that of Modi," he said. Mamata had yesterday said that the Centre had imposed an economic blockade against West Bengal and that she was going to Delhi to seek justice and protest against it.
"When a state fails to perform, it blames the Centre to cover up its failure. In the past Jyoti Basu did it and now the present Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is doing the same," WBPCC president Pradip Bhattacharya said while commenting on Modi's statement which echoed Mamata's oft-repeated charge of central discrimination against non-UPA states.
"Our chief minister is speaking in the same tune as that of Modi," he said. Mamata had yesterday said that the Centre had imposed an economic blockade against West Bengal and that she was going to Delhi to seek justice and protest against it.
15:05
Why Thatcher made so many enemies... read the piece on CNN.
15:02 How does North Korea make money?
There's a reason that the historical nickname of the "Hermit Kingdom" for the old unified Korea is now applied to the closed North Korea - officially known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).The country is notoriously difficult to get information on and its sanctions-hit economy is said to operate on a number of different levels, including a black market, with the government not even releasing official trade statistics.CNN examines the North Korean economy and how Pyongyang generates its income. Read
14:51
As his body is exhumed over his suspicion that he may have been murdered, this was Pablo Neruda's Nobel speech in 1971. Read
14:48 BSP leader's son questioned for his murder
PTI now says that the younger son of local BSP leader Deepak Bhardwaj has been questioned by police to ascertain whether he allegedly gave the contract to kill his father, apparently angry over his relationship with a woman.
Nitesh, the son, was called for questioning in connection with the murder of Bhardwaj at his farmhouse in south Delhi's Rajokri on March 26, while Swami Pratimanand, who allegedly arranged shooters, is on the run. Sources said a lawyer was also questioned in connection with the case. Asked whether Nitesh had been placed under arrest, an official said he was being questioned.
Early reports indicated that he had been arrested for his father's murder.
Nitesh, the son, was called for questioning in connection with the murder of Bhardwaj at his farmhouse in south Delhi's Rajokri on March 26, while Swami Pratimanand, who allegedly arranged shooters, is on the run. Sources said a lawyer was also questioned in connection with the case. Asked whether Nitesh had been placed under arrest, an official said he was being questioned.
Early reports indicated that he had been arrested for his father's murder.
14:31
Just in case you were worried: Arvind Kejriwal tweets: Dear friends, m perfectly fine after my 15 day fast. Resting for a few days before I get back to work.
14:28 Thatcher changed history for women: Oz PM
Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard today said Margaret Thatcher "changed history for women" by opening the door to females taking high-powered leadership roles.
While a polarising figure, the "Iron Lady" shattered the political glass ceiling by becoming Britain's only woman premier, something Gillard, as Australia's first and only female leader, can relate to.
"Margaret Thatcher was a woman who changed history for women," said Labor leader Gillard in tribute to the 87-year-old conservative who died yesterday.
"Obviously, Margaret Thatcher and I did not share a political outlook on the world. "But as a woman, I am admiring of her achievements becoming the first woman to lead the United Kingdom, the first female prime minister there. "Many around the world will be reflecting upon her life and times today, as is appropriate with the loss of such a significant figure," said added.
While a polarising figure, the "Iron Lady" shattered the political glass ceiling by becoming Britain's only woman premier, something Gillard, as Australia's first and only female leader, can relate to.
"Margaret Thatcher was a woman who changed history for women," said Labor leader Gillard in tribute to the 87-year-old conservative who died yesterday.
"Obviously, Margaret Thatcher and I did not share a political outlook on the world. "But as a woman, I am admiring of her achievements becoming the first woman to lead the United Kingdom, the first female prime minister there. "Many around the world will be reflecting upon her life and times today, as is appropriate with the loss of such a significant figure," said added.
14:18 BSP leader Deepak Bhardwaj's son arrested for his murder
BSP leader Deepak Bhardwaj's younger son has been arrested for conspiring his murder, according to reports on Tuesday. Bhardwaj, who was shot at point blank range at his south Delhi farmhouse in Rajokri during a morning walk on March 26, was estranged from his family.His wife Ramesh Kumari lives with their son Nitesh in Dwarka. The second son, Hitesh, lives in Vasant Kunj. Though both the sons manage Bhardwaj's various businesses, they have nothing in their name, which police suspect could have soured ties with their father. More
14:10 Indian economy to grow at a higher pace of 6 pc in FY'14: ADB
Multilateral funding agency ADB today said India's growth rate will improve to 6 per cent in the current fiscal on the back of stronger external demand and progress on reforms. Reforms are needed in India to facilitate the turnaround from growth deceleration due to structural bottlenecks, deteriorating investment and a worsening current account deficit, said 'Asian Development Outlook 2013' report.
14:02 For farmers in Bihar, a simple solution for more crops
While farmers in many parts of India have seen crop yields fall in recent years, due to decreased rainfall and as an aftereffect of a fertilizer-heavy "green revolution" in the country that started in the 1970s, thousands of small farmers in Bihar are seeing the opposite. Read
13:59 Kissinger Cables offer window into Indian politics of the 1970s
The "Kissinger Cables,' a collection of U.S. diplomatic cables released on Monday by WikiLeaks, contain some fascinating revelations about the political scenario in India in the 1970s. Read
13:55 India hires more diplomats to push interests
India plans to double the strength of its diplomatic corps over the next decade in a bid to boost its power abroad. The country's Ministry of External Affairs currently employs approximately 2,000 diplomats in its 162 missions abroad and at its offices in New Delhi. Read
13:48 13 people killed in shooting spree in Serbia
A 60-year old man gunned down 13 people, including six women and a child, as he went on a shooting spree from house to house in a quiet village near Belgrade today before trying to kill himself and his wife, police and hospital official said. The 60-year-old man identified only as Ljubisa B used a handgun in the rampage. Villagers told Serbian reporters he first killed his son before leaving the house and shooting his neighbours, some of whom were still asleep.
13:47 Wikileaks cable: A K Antony refused to support Sanjay Gandhi
A K Antony was "one of the only" leaders apart from Priyaranjan Dasmunsi who "flatly criticised" Sanjay Gandhi during 1976 AICC session in Guwahati during Emergency when the latter's political graph was on the rise, US diplomatic cables have claimed.
The cables, made public by Wikileaks, also said the party faction led by Antony, the Kerala unit President, refused to support Sanjay and questioned his "rapid ascent to a position of power" asking "what sacrifices he has made for the party or the country".
On the Guwahati AICC session and Youth Congress conclave, the cables said, Sanjay was the star attraction and he received top billing as the prime mover behind the organisation's revitalisation and as a national leader second only to his mother Indira Gandhi.
"He still may be number two, but Sanjay and company keep on trying harder," the cable sent on November 26, 1976 said.
Despite all the fanfare for Sanjay and the Youth Congress, the cables said, US diplomats in Delhi continue to hear and see no evidence that the quality of YC membership "improved measurably".
Also see: The US-Naxal connect?
The cables, made public by Wikileaks, also said the party faction led by Antony, the Kerala unit President, refused to support Sanjay and questioned his "rapid ascent to a position of power" asking "what sacrifices he has made for the party or the country".
On the Guwahati AICC session and Youth Congress conclave, the cables said, Sanjay was the star attraction and he received top billing as the prime mover behind the organisation's revitalisation and as a national leader second only to his mother Indira Gandhi.
"He still may be number two, but Sanjay and company keep on trying harder," the cable sent on November 26, 1976 said.
Despite all the fanfare for Sanjay and the Youth Congress, the cables said, US diplomats in Delhi continue to hear and see no evidence that the quality of YC membership "improved measurably".
Also see: The US-Naxal connect?
13:38 Hard bargaining awaits Mamata in Delhi
Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee has a battle on her hands as she heads to Yojana Bhavan for a discussion on the state's annual plan.Indications are that the Centre is not going to offer her more than a Rs 2,448-crore increase in additional central assistance even as it seeks to cap normal central assistance around last year's level of Rs 7,300 crore. Read
13:34 British newspapers reflect split over Thatcher
With broadcasters, columnists and editorialists absorbed in the chronicling of Margaret Thatcher's death, British newspapers on Tuesday reflected the ideological divide that critics of the former prime minister argue deepened alarmingly during her 11 years in office. Read
13:26 Margaret Thatcher was a figure of awe, says Meryl Streep
Meryl Streep, who won an Oscar for playing Margaret Thatcher in the 2011 movie 'The Iron Lady', has hailed the former British premier as a trailblazer for women.
"Margaret Thatcher was a pioneer, willingly or unwillingly, for the role of women in politics. It is hard to imagine a part of our current history that has not been affected by measures she put forward in Britain,' the Herald Sun quoted her as saying.
"But to me she was a figure of awe for her personal strength and grit,' she added in a statement released after Thatcher's death from a stroke overnight in London, at the age of 87.
Streep noted that Thatcher won the British premiership "not because she inherited (the) position as the daughter of a great man, or the widow of an important man, but by dint of her own striving."
"Margaret Thatcher was a pioneer, willingly or unwillingly, for the role of women in politics. It is hard to imagine a part of our current history that has not been affected by measures she put forward in Britain,' the Herald Sun quoted her as saying.
"But to me she was a figure of awe for her personal strength and grit,' she added in a statement released after Thatcher's death from a stroke overnight in London, at the age of 87.
Streep noted that Thatcher won the British premiership "not because she inherited (the) position as the daughter of a great man, or the widow of an important man, but by dint of her own striving."
13:17 Margaret Thatcher: we disliked her and we loved it
The great Ian McEwan writes: What bound all opposition to Margaret Thatcher's programme was a suspicion that the grocer's daughter was intent on monetising human value. Read
13:08 The great lure of Indian fast food
Lunch-time read: Kati rolls are unlikely to dethrone popular fast-foods like hamburgers or burritos in the U.S. any time soon, but Indian cuisine is gaining ground.
12:57 In a 1st, PMO tweets reply to Modi's Bengal speech
In a first, the Prime Minister's Office responds to Narendra Modi's statement that the PM has done nothing to curb inflation and that there is a bias against non-UPA states.
Dr Manmohan Singh @PMOIndia Fact1: The Centre has allocated funds to states according to mutually agreed formula for economic justice.
Fact2: Most developing states have improved their GDP growth during the last 5 Year Plan. States that used to grow slowly in earlier periods have done much better."
Dr Manmohan Singh @PMOIndia Fact1: The Centre has allocated funds to states according to mutually agreed formula for economic justice.
Fact2: Most developing states have improved their GDP growth during the last 5 Year Plan. States that used to grow slowly in earlier periods have done much better."
12:49 Britain in the 20th Century: Thatcherism, 1979-1990
Former UK PM Margaret Thatcher passed away yesterday after a stroke. She was 87. Read how Thatcher sought to solve the deep-seated problems of the British state outside the parameters of the postwar settlement. Read
12:43 Musharraf was advised not to return home: report
Moving on to other news: Pakistan's powerful security establishment had advised former military ruler Pervez Musharraf not to return to the country just days before he ended his self-imposed exile of nearly four years, according to a media report today.
"No one wanted him (Musharraf) to come back," an unnamed official was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune. The primary reason that the military opposed Musharraf's return was threats to his life, and the army feared his homecoming could lead to other political controversies, the official said. There was consensus among all stakeholders '" including the civil leadership and the military establishment '" that Musharraf should not have returned home at this stage.
"No one wanted him (Musharraf) to come back," an unnamed official was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune. The primary reason that the military opposed Musharraf's return was threats to his life, and the army feared his homecoming could lead to other political controversies, the official said. There was consensus among all stakeholders '" including the civil leadership and the military establishment '" that Musharraf should not have returned home at this stage.
12:37 The schizophrenia around Narendra Modi
If there is an award for the cliche of the year, it would be 'Narendra Modi is a polarizing figure'. Read
12:31 Jaitley warns BJP elevation of Modi may help Cong win votes
Amidst a rising clamour for projecting Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi as the party's prime ministerial candidate, the BJP has been weighing Modi's rising popularity against his potential to polarise the electorate.It is at this juncture that senior party leader Arun Jaitley is learnt to have cautioned party leaders against the Congress's trap to polarise Muslim support to its advantage during his address to BJP national office-bearers and state unit chiefs on Sunday. Read
12:29 Modi's Rabindra sangeet: UPA doesn't help Bengal
Public-private partnership in health a must, says Modi, and talks about the Maa Yojna where the a critically ill person,short of funds can help from the CM's fund via this yojna.
The speech was nothing short of masterclass, political, yet not a poll speech, a reach-out to Mamata and an attack on all fronts on the centre. As Mamata asks the Centre for funds, Modi's comment that the UPA is biased against non-UPA states, should come as music to her ears.
The speech was nothing short of masterclass, political, yet not a poll speech, a reach-out to Mamata and an attack on all fronts on the centre. As Mamata asks the Centre for funds, Modi's comment that the UPA is biased against non-UPA states, should come as music to her ears.
12:17 Bengal Inc laps up Modi's speech: Bengalis best tourists
A businessman talks about the lack of tourism development in West Bengal and if Gujarat can help out. Modi says he's come to Bengal as a student, to learn. "Bengalis are the best tourists and the best hosts. We want you to come to Gujarat," he says. Modi compares the watching the Taj in moonlight and the Rann of Kutch and uses the last few minutes to pitch Gujarat as a tourist destination.
A question on how Modi has ensured better health to people in Gujarat.
A question on how Modi has ensured better health to people in Gujarat.
12:05
Modi ends his speech with this takeaway of Gujarat's development plan: Farm- fibre-factory-fashion-foreign trade.
The CM now takes questions. The first question is on replication of the Gujarat agricultural model in other states.
The CM now takes questions. The first question is on replication of the Gujarat agricultural model in other states.
11:59 'It amazes me how the Italians were allowed to go home'
Modi on India's external affairs policy: "It amazes me how the Italian marines were allowed to go home to cast their vote. In India, prisoners can't even go home if their mother dies. And so, we allow the Italians to go home. It's unbelievable.
Our soldiers are killed, decapitated and what do we do? Nothing."
Our soldiers are killed, decapitated and what do we do? Nothing."
11:54 Electricity in each house, every village in Guj: Modi
Modi on solar power: In Gujarat solar energy and energy from petroleum products sell at the same price. We want individuals to create their own power, to be in a position one day to sell to the states.
"We have reduced the wastage of electricity boards and today Gujarat is surplus in the production of electricity. We had a deficit of over 2000 MW, now we have a surplus.
"I had been told after I came to power that at least, people in the state should be able to eat their meals under an electric light and not in darkness. Today, every house in Gujarat has electricity. In Gujarat, load shedding makes news. It never happens. Newspapers tear me apart if there is no electricity in a village for five minutes. In other states, a house with electricity makes news," says Modi.
"We have reduced the wastage of electricity boards and today Gujarat is surplus in the production of electricity. We had a deficit of over 2000 MW, now we have a surplus.
"I had been told after I came to power that at least, people in the state should be able to eat their meals under an electric light and not in darkness. Today, every house in Gujarat has electricity. In Gujarat, load shedding makes news. It never happens. Newspapers tear me apart if there is no electricity in a village for five minutes. In other states, a house with electricity makes news," says Modi.
11:45 Gujaratis best tourists, they are everywhere: Modi
Modi on Gujarat tourism: Gujarat has never been a tourist destination. Gujaratis are the best tourists. Wherever you go, you will find a Gujarati tourist. You will find him sitting in a hotel, opening his dabba and eating a Fefra from it. But we still neve been a tourist destination and we thought about it, worked on it and have doubled our tourism figures. And of course, Amitabh Bachchan has been going door-to-door to promote tourism. It has worked," he says.
Bengal Inc cheers for Modi.
Bengal Inc cheers for Modi.
11:40 Gujarat only state to hold cataract, dental camps for cattle
Modi on agriculture sector: "We have no data on agriculture. What is the production? Where is there scarcity? How can we move excess produce there? Excess produce gets wasted, rots, but there are people dying of hunger," he says.
To the silence that greets this statement, Modi asks, "I have a sneaky feeling you guys don't get news like this in Bengal."
"Gujarat has a growth of 80 per cent in animal husbandry. The government holds cattle camps. It's the only state in India where animals have cataract camps, dental camps. This means we have eradicated diseases rampant in cattle," says Modi.
To the silence that greets this statement, Modi asks, "I have a sneaky feeling you guys don't get news like this in Bengal."
"Gujarat has a growth of 80 per cent in animal husbandry. The government holds cattle camps. It's the only state in India where animals have cataract camps, dental camps. This means we have eradicated diseases rampant in cattle," says Modi.
11:34 'Gujarat farmers get the best of the world at their doorstep'
"Government intervention is must in agriculture. In Gujarat, we have the government, agriculture universities, departments concerned only with agriculture, work together. I will ensure that whatever technology is available, whatever developments there have been in agriculture, is available to my farmers in Gujarat. We can replicate this model in the rest of India," says Modi.
11:30
Modi then talks about the Vibrant Gujarat model. "How will per capita income increase if you don't adopt a working growth model. In Gujarat, our farmers have their own 'health card' for their fields. They know what is needed for their farms."
11:27
"Bengal was never discriminated against when the BJP was at the Centre. Now, Mamata Banerjee has to fill potholes left in the last 32 years. But I am optimistic that Bengal will grow, will flourish," he says.
11:24 WB has to live with 32 yrs of no governance: Modi
"Constructive development is not taking place in Bengal. The Centre is not interested in bringing in development work in Bengal. What the Centre is interested in is looking at the time, much like a government servant who waits for the evening so he can go home. The centre is looking at the time, when it's reign over the country will end," says Modi. We can see the UPA melting like a snowball. It will be a mistake to compare Bengal with Gujarat. Bengal has to contend with 32 years of mis-governance," he says. Mamata should be mollified.
"It is a fact that the Centre treats UPA and non-UPA states differently," says Modi. The applause and the rapt attention are constants.
"It is a fact that the Centre treats UPA and non-UPA states differently," says Modi. The applause and the rapt attention are constants.
11:17 Have not come to Bengal to meet CM: Modi
"If India has to be raised to loftier levels, the movement has to begin from Bengal. Even the British knew that if they wanted to establish their rule in India, they would have to start with Bengal. I will implement in Gujarat what I learn in Bengal. The city has a history of learning, of education, unparalleled in the rest of India. I am not here to set parallels with the government in Bengal, but that, unfortunately is what the media wants. It's just incidental, that I'm in Bengal," says Modi.
In attempt to mend fences with Mamata Banerjee, Modi says you cannot compare Gujarat and West Bengal. The government here has had just two years. "I have taken 10 years to fill in the holes left by the Congress. You have to fill in holes left over 32 years. It's not an easy task," says the master politician.
In attempt to mend fences with Mamata Banerjee, Modi says you cannot compare Gujarat and West Bengal. The government here has had just two years. "I have taken 10 years to fill in the holes left by the Congress. You have to fill in holes left over 32 years. It's not an easy task," says the master politician.
11:08 Modi charms Bengal Inc with Vivekananda, history
Narendra Modi begins his address to Bengal Inc. "I have been asked to speak on the future. Even if I have to cast a stone here in this state, the hand has to be moved away. I have come to Bengal in different circumstances, with different goals during the polls. This is a different forum. I have been to Belur and Dakshineshwar and I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to be there," says Modi.
Talking about the Bengal Renaissance, Modi says the state has always been ahead of the rest of India when it comes to knowledge.
Talking about the Bengal Renaissance, Modi says the state has always been ahead of the rest of India when it comes to knowledge.
10:58 Narendra Modi to address Bengal Inc any time now
Gujarat CM Narendra Modi set to address Bengal Inc (is that an oxymoron?) any time now. He will address three chambers of commerce in Kolkata today. He is also likely to address BJP workers in the city. Modi has never made any speech in West Bengal and it should be interesting to see how he positions himself in the state. Mamata Banerjee, incidentally, is in Delhi to wrangle an economic package from the Centre.
10:47 How Thatcher floored Rajiv, Sonia with Cambridge tryst remark
A speech by Baroness Thatcher during Rajiv Gandhi's visit in the October of 1985 iconized such humour. Her speech at a dinner hosted for then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi at 10 Downing Street in October 1985 personified it.
"I know that neither you nor your wife are strangers here; indeed it was Britain's privilege to provide the place where you met. Indeed now I come to think of it, it's about the best thing that Cambridge has done being in all other respects unable to match up to," she told Rajiv. Read
"I know that neither you nor your wife are strangers here; indeed it was Britain's privilege to provide the place where you met. Indeed now I come to think of it, it's about the best thing that Cambridge has done being in all other respects unable to match up to," she told Rajiv. Read
10:44 Thatcher, Chandraswami and I
Meanwhile, a lovely read on the Hindu on Margaret Thatcher. How a future Prime Minister of Britain warmed to the godman with an Indian diplomat playing the reluctant translator. Read
10:42 Modi invokes Vivekananda ahead of Kolkata talk
On Tuesday, Kolkata will hear Narendra Modi speak at a business meet in a hotel, the political programme in Mahajati Sadan and the social gathering at the Gujarati Samaj Bhavan.
Meanwhile, Narendra Modi who is already in West Bengal has been tweeting every few minutes from Belur and Dakshineshwar.
"Blessed with the darshan of Maa Kali at Dakhineshwar. I apologised to her for coming after a long time. Got the opportunity to visit Ganga Maa where Swami Vivekananda used to take bath. Experienced an inner joy being there. On my request, the organisers let me spend some time alone in the room where Swami Vivekananda meditated. The experience was beyond words! I am glad to have had these experiences in the 150th birth anniversary year of Swami.Vivekananda. Memorable day!"
Meanwhile, Narendra Modi who is already in West Bengal has been tweeting every few minutes from Belur and Dakshineshwar.
"Blessed with the darshan of Maa Kali at Dakhineshwar. I apologised to her for coming after a long time. Got the opportunity to visit Ganga Maa where Swami Vivekananda used to take bath. Experienced an inner joy being there. On my request, the organisers let me spend some time alone in the room where Swami Vivekananda meditated. The experience was beyond words! I am glad to have had these experiences in the 150th birth anniversary year of Swami.Vivekananda. Memorable day!"
10:34 The two selves of Mamata Banerjee
While on Mamata, read the opinion piece on the Hindu -- the anger in West Bengal following the death of student leader Sudipta Gupta. In West Bengal, the resentment building up against the two-year-old government of the Trinamool Congress seems to have found expression in the protests against the death of Students Federation of India activist Sudipta Gupta after he was arrested by the police during a demonstration. More
10:32 Drones to check rhino poaching in Kaziranga
Wildlife authorities are using aerial drones to oversee a sprawling natural game park in Assam to protect the one-horned rhinoceros from armed poachers. Read
10:30 Family of Brit woman killed in Kashmir asked her not to go there
A 24-year-old British woman, who was recently murdered in Kashmir, was asked not to travel there, her family has said. Sarah Groves' father, Victor Groves, said that his daughter was suppose to go to Sri Lanka but altered her plans and went to India instead. He added that they had tried hard to stop her from going there, the BBC reports. The body of Groves, a former Blanchelande College student, was found on a houseboat hotel in Srinagar on Saturday. It is believed she had been stabbed.
10:28 Won't bet, want justice, says Mamata of Delhi visit
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will meet Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh in New Delhi on Tuesday evening to discuss the financial situation of West Bengal and seek central funds for her state.
Banerjee yesterday stated that West Bengal is the top performing state in the country, and said that she would lodge a protest against the economic blockade by the Centre during her meeting with the Prime Minister.
"I am not going to meet Dr. Manmohan Singh, but I am going to meet his chairs," said Banerjee, while expressing her annoyance with the ruling Congress Party at the Centre.
Banerjee said that West Bengal is not demanding any special package, but only its rightful share.
"We are not begging. We are not demanding any special package. We are demanding our rightful share. As far as performance is concerned, we are number one in the country," Banerjee told mediapersons in Kolkata.
"I am going to Delhi to seek justice. We want to know why West Bengal is deprived. We will also protest against the economic blockade by the Centre. My visit to Delhi is not for a political meeting; it is entirely to discuss the development, achievements and state''s financial situation," she added.
Banerjee yesterday stated that West Bengal is the top performing state in the country, and said that she would lodge a protest against the economic blockade by the Centre during her meeting with the Prime Minister.
"I am not going to meet Dr. Manmohan Singh, but I am going to meet his chairs," said Banerjee, while expressing her annoyance with the ruling Congress Party at the Centre.
Banerjee said that West Bengal is not demanding any special package, but only its rightful share.
"We are not begging. We are not demanding any special package. We are demanding our rightful share. As far as performance is concerned, we are number one in the country," Banerjee told mediapersons in Kolkata.
"I am going to Delhi to seek justice. We want to know why West Bengal is deprived. We will also protest against the economic blockade by the Centre. My visit to Delhi is not for a political meeting; it is entirely to discuss the development, achievements and state''s financial situation," she added.
10:17 Mamata to meet PM to seek 'economic justice'
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Tuesday evening to discuss the financial situation of West Bengal and seek central funds for her state.
Banerjee on Monday stated that West Bengal is the top performing state in the country, and said that she would lodge a protest against the economic blockade by the Centre during her meeting with the prime minister.
09:59 What leaders at BRICS summit didn't discuss
The heads of State who participated in the recently-held BRICS summit seem to have forgotten to discuss a crucial issue -- that with economic growth comes life-threatening diseases like obesity and diabetes.
09:50 Margaret Thatcher: 'Loved, hated, never forgotten'
While many mourned the death of former British premier Margaret Thatcher, others celebrated the Iron Lady's death.
Headlines of newspapers hailed her as the "woman who saved Britain" and trashed her as the "woman who tore Britain apart".
09:28 Oppn firm on demand for Ajit Pawar's resignation
He might have apologised for his crass comments, but Maharashtra Deputy Minister Ajit Pawar has not been able to emerge out of the hole he has dug himself into.
Opposition leaders are in no mood to listen to Pawar's explanation -- that the comments were the 'worst mistake' of his life -- and continue to demand his resignation.
09:15 Hospital horror: Sweeper chops off infant's finger
Horrifying cases of medical apathy continue to plague modern India.
At a hospital in Barmer, Rajasthan, a sweeper attended to an infant as both the doctors and nurses were not present.
While removing stitches, the sweeper accidentally chopped off the infant's finger.
09:11 Modi to visit Kolkata today
Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi is continuing his speech blitzkrieg.
Modi will visit Kolkata today to meet business leaders from the state and compare the growth model of Gujarat with that of Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal.
Both the ruling Trinamool Congress and the opposition Congress have claimed that Modi's visit will be a flop show.
BJP has stated that Modi is visiting Kolkata to participate in a 'simple business meet'.
09:07 WikiLeaks shows PoK as part of Pakistan
Whistle-blower website WikiLeaks has shown Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir as part of Pakistan in its recently released global map.
There is no mention of the Line of Control.
The common is to refer to the two sides of LoC as India-controlled Kashmir and Pakistan-controlled Kashmir.
The interactive map was released by WikiLeaks, so as to help people to search into its 1.7 million cables in a user-friendly manner.
02:53 Egypt tense after sectarian clashes
Egypt was tense today after sectarian violence claimed seven lives over the weekend, as President Muhammed Mursi promised to launch an immediate investigation into the bloodshed.
Police was deployed outside the cathedral in the central neighbourhood of Abbassiya, where two people were killed in clashes yesterday.
Mourners had packed the cathedral yesterday for prayers to honour four Copts who had been killed in sectarian clashes late Friday in a town north of the Egyptian capital that had also left one Muslim dead.
01:52 US uses lottery to choose recipients of H-1B visas
The US, which received about 124,000 applications for the 85,000 H-1B visas up for grabs this year, has used lottery to determine who all would be given the most sought after work visas among IT professionals.
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services today said that the lottery was done on April 7. The federal agency had started receiving applications for H-1B visas on April 1 and five days later on April 5 it announced to have reached the cap.
"For the first time since 2008, USCIS has reached the statutory H-1B cap of 65,000 for fiscal year (FY) 2014 within the first week of the filing period," an official statement said, adding that it also received more than 20,000 H-1B petitions filed on behalf of persons exempt from the cap under the advanced degree exemption," USCIS said.
01:38 White House wants immigration bill fast-tracked
Encouraged by the progress made by lawmakers on various aspects of a comprehensive immigration reform, US President Barack Obama believes that there should be no further delay in decision on the critical issue.
"We are encouraged by the progress we've seen. We are working with those of both parties who are making progress on this issue and putting together legislation," White House Press Secretary Jay Carney told reporters.
"The (US) President made clear at the beginning of this process that he thought the best way to create success was for the Senate to take the lead through the Gang of Eight, and there has been significant progress. And I think anybody can contest that," Carney said.
00:54 Man sentenced to 17 years for Seattle terror plot
Dawn reports: A 34-year-old Muslim convert who planned to attack a US military recruiting center with grenades and machine guns in revenge for alleged US war crimes was jailed for 18 years on Monday.
Abu Khalid Abdul-Latif, a US citizen, was also sentenced to 10 years of supervised release following his prison term for the 2011 plot, which officials said was foiled due to help from the local Muslim community.
"This defendant planned to attack a military center when there would be the largest possible gathering of new recruits and their families,' said US Attorney Jenny Durkan, after the sentencing as part of a plea deal.
Read the full story here
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