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Tue, 16 April 2013
London Marathon to go ahead despite Boston blasts
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23:54 London Marathon to go ahead despite Boston blasts
The London Marathon will go ahead this weekend despite the bombings that caused carnage at the Boston Marathon, but security has been reviewed, organisers and police said today.
Three people were killed and more than 170 wounded, some with horrific injuries, in twin explosions as runners approached the finish line in Boston yesterday, in the worst attack in the United States since the September 11, 2001 atrocities.
The FBI vowed to go "to the ends of the Earth" to find those responsible.
23:38 Spain dismisses consul in Boston after bomb attack
Spain dismissed its consul in Boston today for failing to carry out his duties following the bombing in the US city's marathon that killed three people and wounded more than 170, a foreign ministry official said.
Consul Pablo Sanchez-Teran "has been informed that he was dismissed for breach of his consular obligations", the official told AFP. Spanish media reported that the consul was dismissed from his post because the Spanish consulate in Boston closed yesterday at its normal hour after the twin blasts at the Boston Marathon in which some 90 Spanish nationals were registered as participants.
22:44 Boston Marathon blasts an "act of terror", says Obama
US President Barack Obama today described the Boston Marathon blasts as "an act of terror" and vowed to bring to justice all those who were responsible for the heinous and cowardly act.
"This was a heinous and cowardly act. And given what we now know about what took place, the FBI is investigating it as an act of terrorism. Any time bombs are used to target innocent civilians, it is an act of terror," Obama told the White House press corps here.
22:38 US media react to Boston Marathon bombings
US media have been reacting to the bombings at the Boston Marathon. Although officials have not yet given a motive for the attacks, many newspapers make the link to terrorism and speak of the need to stand strong in the face of yet another outrage on American soil.
Under the headline, "A tough blow - but a tougher town", Boston Globe opinion writer Scott Lehigh said the attack happened when "when we had almost stopped thinking about it".
22:05 Give voters' greater say in choice of candidates: Rahul
Ruing that in many states it is a selected few who decide on distribution of tickets, Congress Vice-President Rahul Gandhi today said that political parties should reflect the voters' views in the choice of candidates for Lok Sabha and Assembly elections.
Stressing that his aim was "to make Congress more accessible to all, as much as possible", he said in certain states like Uttar Pradesh "one person decides all the candidates."
21:20 Nitish a 'puppet' in Advani's hands: RJD
RJD, arch rival of JD-U in Bihar, today accused Chief Minister Nitish Kumar of being a "puppet" in the hands of L K Advani and playing the politics of misleading the Muslims.
"In the internal quarrels in the top leadership of BJP on the leadership issue, Nitish is a puppet in the hands of Advani," RJD General Secretary Vijay Krishna said, adding "only communal can protect the communal".
"How can anyone in the company of those associated with the Sangh Parivar not communal?", he said alleging that Bihar Chief Minister was resorting to politics of misleading the Muslims.
20:20 TV digitisation drive gets boost with HCs orders
The Centre's digitisation drive today received a major boost with the Karnataka and Gujarat high court's today ruling out any extension of deadline in six cities of both the states where the programme has to be implemented in its second phase.
Sources in Information and Broadcasting ministry said while the deadline for phase II digitisation had passed on the mid night of March 31, Mysore, Bangalore and four cities in Gujarat Ahmedabad, Surat, Rajkot and Baroda had been given extensions by the High courts of the states after petitions had been filed.
19:41 SC dismisses review petitions in Mumbai blasts case
The Supreme Court today dismissed petitions by five convicts of the 1993 Mumbai blasts case seeking review of its verdict, saying there was no merit in them.
"We have carefully gone through the review petitions and the connected papers. We find no merit in the review petitions and the same are accordingly dismissed," a bench of justices P Sathasivam and B S Chauhanthe bench said.
The review petition was filed by Zaibunisa Anwar Kazi, Kersi Bapuji Adajania, Yusuf Khan, Kayum Kasam Khan, Ranjit Kumar Singh and Altaf Ali Sayed whose conviction was upheld by the apex court on March 21.
18:58 Oppn members walk out as Ajit Pawar rises to speak in assembly
In other news: Continuing their tirade against Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar for his controversial comments on drought and load-shedding, Opposition in the Maharashtra legislative assembly walked out of the house when he rose to speak.
Pawar was responding to a query regarding report of a house committee which was tabled in the house.
The Deputy Chief Minister had to cut short his reply after the Opposition members walked out.
Sudhir Mungantiwar (BJP) termed the opposition's action as their 'atma-klesh' (penance) agitation. "Ajit Pawar ended his penance in one day. But, we will continue it as we are hurt by his comments directed at the drought-affected people," he added.
Pawar was responding to a query regarding report of a house committee which was tabled in the house.
The Deputy Chief Minister had to cut short his reply after the Opposition members walked out.
Sudhir Mungantiwar (BJP) termed the opposition's action as their 'atma-klesh' (penance) agitation. "Ajit Pawar ended his penance in one day. But, we will continue it as we are hurt by his comments directed at the drought-affected people," he added.
18:54 Red Crescent to send 20 rescue teams, 3 choppers
Iran Red Crescent is sending 20 emergency teams and three helicopters to the quake-affected areas.
18:42 Mayawati's behaviour be-lagaam: SP
In other news: The ruling SP today attacked BSP supremo Mayawati saying her behaviour is 'be-lagaam' (uncontrolled).
"Mayawati does not have restraint in her language... The behaviour and action of Mayawati is 'be-lagaam' (uncontrolled)," SP spokesman Rajendra Chowdhury said.
Mayawati, addressing a function to mark B R Ambedkar's 122th birth anniversary on April 14, had said that SP "goons" will be "taught a lesson" when she returns to power.
Chowdhury also accused the SP supremo of making a record record of corruption during her regime and alleged that her entire Cabinet was corrupt. "She is afraid of going to jail as her government had made a record of corruption and her entire Cabinet was corrupt," Chowdhury attacked.
"Mayawati does not have restraint in her language... The behaviour and action of Mayawati is 'be-lagaam' (uncontrolled)," SP spokesman Rajendra Chowdhury said.
Mayawati, addressing a function to mark B R Ambedkar's 122th birth anniversary on April 14, had said that SP "goons" will be "taught a lesson" when she returns to power.
Chowdhury also accused the SP supremo of making a record record of corruption during her regime and alleged that her entire Cabinet was corrupt. "She is afraid of going to jail as her government had made a record of corruption and her entire Cabinet was corrupt," Chowdhury attacked.
18:33 Red Crescent: Rescue tough in desolate villages
Iran's Red Crescent said it was facing a "complicated emergency situation" in the area with villages scattered over desolate hills and valleys. Iran's semiofficial ISNA news agency and others described the quake, measured at least magnitude 7.7, as the strongest quake in more than 50 years.
It also was the second deadly quake to hit Iran in less than a week after a magnitude 6.1 temblor struck near Bushehr, on Iran's Persian Gulf coast, killing 40 people and raising calls for greater international safety inspectors at Iran's lone nuclear reactor nearby. -- ABC News
It also was the second deadly quake to hit Iran in less than a week after a magnitude 6.1 temblor struck near Bushehr, on Iran's Persian Gulf coast, killing 40 people and raising calls for greater international safety inspectors at Iran's lone nuclear reactor nearby. -- ABC News
18:30 RIL's Q4 profit jumps 32%
A break from the earthquake updates to tell you that Reliance Industries today posted a 32 per cent jump in its fourth quarter net profit, the biggest rise in almost three years, as strong margins in its oil refining business helped offset fall in natural gas production.
RIL, which operates the world's biggest refining complex at Jamnagar in Gujarat, reported a net profit of Rs 5,589 crore in January-March as against Rs 4,236 crore in the same period a year ago.
The better-than-estimated profit, the second consecutive quarter of increase after four quarters of decline, came on the back of rise in earnings from turning crude oil into petrol, diesel and other petroleum products.
RIL, which operates the world's biggest refining complex at Jamnagar in Gujarat, reported a net profit of Rs 5,589 crore in January-March as against Rs 4,236 crore in the same period a year ago.
The better-than-estimated profit, the second consecutive quarter of increase after four quarters of decline, came on the back of rise in earnings from turning crude oil into petrol, diesel and other petroleum products.
18:27 All communication near epicentre in Iran cut
People in the city of Zahedan, Iran, close to the epicentre poured into the streets when the earthquake struck, Iran's Fars news agency reported.
All communications in the area have been cut, the Iranian Red Crescent's Mahmoud Mozaffar told state television.
Rescue teams have been dispatched to the affected area, he said."In the aftermath of this earthquake five evaluation teams from the Khash and Saravan branches were sent to the area to assess damage," Mozaffar said.
The epicenter was in southeast Iran in an area of mountains and desert, 201 km southeast of Zahedan and 250 km northwest of Turbat in Pakistan, USGS said.
A US Institute for Science and International Security map did not show any nuclear-linked facilities in southeastern Iran close to Pakistan.
All communications in the area have been cut, the Iranian Red Crescent's Mahmoud Mozaffar told state television.
Rescue teams have been dispatched to the affected area, he said."In the aftermath of this earthquake five evaluation teams from the Khash and Saravan branches were sent to the area to assess damage," Mozaffar said.
The epicenter was in southeast Iran in an area of mountains and desert, 201 km southeast of Zahedan and 250 km northwest of Turbat in Pakistan, USGS said.
A US Institute for Science and International Security map did not show any nuclear-linked facilities in southeastern Iran close to Pakistan.
18:13 Three women, 2 children killed in quake-hit Pakistan
In Balochistan, Pakistan, five deaths have been reported after the earthquake. Three women and two children were killed when their mud house collapsed, according to government officials.
18:02 No power in parts of quake-hit Iran; Pak toll 5
No electricity in parts of quake-affected south-eastern Iran. Casualties in Iran are 40, though officials believe the toll will rise to at least a 100. In Pakistan, five deaths have been reported. India, fortunately, has remained untouched by the earthquake, both in terms of casualties and damage to property. Iran says this is the worst quake in 40 years.
17:58
The cartoon strip that ALWAYS does the rounds on Twitter whenever there is an earthquake. See
17:55 Five killed in Kharan district of Balochistan, Pak
Emergency has been declared in Saravan in Iran. Casualties from the earthquake now also being reported in Balochistan, Pakistan, estimated to be five.
Hundreds of people rushed out of their offices and homes in panic today after an earthquake hit the Iran-Pakistan border had ripples felt in Pakistan's biggest city and in cities across the Sindh and Baluchistan provinces. The epicentre of the earthquake was at the Pakistan-Iran border and measured 7.8 on the Richter scale, the Met office reported.
The worst affected areas, apparently, were Clifton, near the Arabian coastal area, and the densely populated Gulistan-e-Jauhar area where there are hundreds of high-rise buildings.
The people came out of their apartments as soon as the jolts were felt around 3.46 pm local time that lasted for around 15 seconds.
Pic: Tremors were felt in these places in the Mid-East.
Hundreds of people rushed out of their offices and homes in panic today after an earthquake hit the Iran-Pakistan border had ripples felt in Pakistan's biggest city and in cities across the Sindh and Baluchistan provinces. The epicentre of the earthquake was at the Pakistan-Iran border and measured 7.8 on the Richter scale, the Met office reported.
The worst affected areas, apparently, were Clifton, near the Arabian coastal area, and the densely populated Gulistan-e-Jauhar area where there are hundreds of high-rise buildings.
The people came out of their apartments as soon as the jolts were felt around 3.46 pm local time that lasted for around 15 seconds.
Pic: Tremors were felt in these places in the Mid-East.
17:45 How the quake affected India
Multiple tremors today shook north India and Gujarat. The quake, measuring 7.8 on the Richter Scale at 4:14 pm, was epicentred at the Pakistan-Iran border, Indian Meterological Department said. The quake took place 15.2 km below the surface.
The tremors were felt in Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, Jaipur, Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana and people were seen rushing out of high-rises in the national capital.
"I was inside my office in Connaught Place. I felt the chair shaking and rushed out of office," Priya Dev, a chartered accountant in Delhi, said.
There were no immediate reports of any damage or casualty.
Mild tremors were today felt in parts of Rajasthan, but there were no initial report of any loss. "There are no immediate reports of damage," Birju Patel, deputy director of the Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority, said.
Earlier in the day, a moderate quake shook Arunachal Pradesh. The tremors measuring 5 on the Richter Scale was recorded at 2:04 pm with the epicentre at the Arunachal Pradesh-China border. An eight-year-old child was killed in a mudslide in Assam, which was rocked twice today and was also felt in other Northeastern states and Odisha.
According to the Seismic Zone Mapping done by the Geological Survey of India (GSI), Delhi is among 30 cities in the country falling in zone IV, which is defined as a severe intensity seismic zone.
The tremors were felt in Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, Jaipur, Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana and people were seen rushing out of high-rises in the national capital.
"I was inside my office in Connaught Place. I felt the chair shaking and rushed out of office," Priya Dev, a chartered accountant in Delhi, said.
There were no immediate reports of any damage or casualty.
Mild tremors were today felt in parts of Rajasthan, but there were no initial report of any loss. "There are no immediate reports of damage," Birju Patel, deputy director of the Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority, said.
Earlier in the day, a moderate quake shook Arunachal Pradesh. The tremors measuring 5 on the Richter Scale was recorded at 2:04 pm with the epicentre at the Arunachal Pradesh-China border. An eight-year-old child was killed in a mudslide in Assam, which was rocked twice today and was also felt in other Northeastern states and Odisha.
According to the Seismic Zone Mapping done by the Geological Survey of India (GSI), Delhi is among 30 cities in the country falling in zone IV, which is defined as a severe intensity seismic zone.
17:34 Iran's nuke facilities not in danger
Most of Iran's nuclear-related facilities are located in central Iran or its west, including the Bushehr nuclear power plant on the Gulf coast. Nuclear facilities in Iran not in danger, say reports.
17:29 No casualties in Pakistan
Some good news from Pakistan. Radio Pakistan says there is no report of causality in Pakistan.
17:22
Government officials in Iran say it was the biggest earthquake in 40 years and the country is expecting hundreds of dead.
17:20 Hundreds of deaths expected after quake: Iran
An Iranian government official said on Tuesday he expected hundreds of deaths from a major earthquake that struck Iran near the border with Pakistan."It was the biggest earthquake in Iran in 40 years and we are expecting hundreds of dead," said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity. -- Reuters
17:17 Iran TV: 40 dead in earthquake, damage to buildings
And just as we thought there would be no casualties, early reports from Iran state TV says at least 40 people have been killed in the earthquake. The quake hit approximately 86km south east of the city of Khash, according to the USGS. The city has a population of 56,000. The quake was felt across the Middle East, Pakistan and India.
17:10
ANI News: The magnitude of the earthquake is 7.8 and was felt at 4.14 pm. The aftershocks felt were 6.3 on the Richter scale at 4.24 pm. No damage as such occured, says RS Dattatreya of the Met Dept.
17:07 Pakistan: Five injured after building collapses in quake
Early reports coming in from Pakistan's Karachi_Post: Five injured in Karachi after building collapses partially due to massive 7.8 earthquake.
17:01 Delhi earthquake: NO casualties, no damage yet
The good news is that though the tremors last for 45 seconds, none of the quake-hit countries have reported casualties or damage. The epicentre quake, as we said earlier, is at Khash in Iran and is over 15 km deep. Tremors were felt in Delhi, Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh, Rajasthan and Gujarat. Pakistan, Iran and Oman also reported tremors.
16:54
Pic: Map of the epicentre of the earthquake at Khash, Iran.
The Indian seismological department confirms the quake was 7.8 on the Richter scale. Tremors were also felt in Ahmedabad.
The Indian seismological department confirms the quake was 7.8 on the Richter scale. Tremors were also felt in Ahmedabad.
16:51 Delhi earthquake: USGS warns of aftershocks
USGS says that aftershocks remain a possibility and they can be of equal or lesser strength. If you've just joined us: A 7.8 earthquake rocked parts of north India including Delhi, Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana. The quake has an epicentre at Khash in Iran. No reports of casualties or damage in India as yet.
16:43
Here's the latest figures on the quake from USGS.
That's scaled down from an earlier 8.
Pakistan media says no casualties or damage reported as yet.
That's scaled down from an earlier 8.
Pakistan media says no casualties or damage reported as yet.
16:39
USGS confirms the earthquake has a magnitude of 8 in Iran.
Here's the map of the epicenter of the earthquake.
Here's the map of the epicenter of the earthquake.
16:36 7.8 quake rocks Delhi, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana
PTI says Punjab, Haryana and the Union Territory of Chandigarh also experienced mild tremors this afternoon. There were no immediate reports of any loss of life or damage to property. The tremors, which were felt at 1621 hrs, lasted a few seconds.
16:35
No damage has been reported in Delhi, Noida, NCR, by the fire department.
16:34
Tremors have been felt in Chandigarh and Rajasthan as well. The epicentre is at the Iran-Pakistan border.
16:33 7.8 quake rocks Delhi; epicentre in Iran, Pak hit
Earthquake Watch reports that a major earthquake has occurred in the Iran-Pakistan border region. Sky News reports that a magnitude 8 earthquake strikes Iran. In Delhi, the quake recorded 7.8 on the Richter scale.
16:25
Tremors have also been felt in Pakistan. Details awaited.
16:24 Earthquake rocks Delhi, Noida, no casualties yet
Just in: A powerful earthquake rocks Noida, Delhi and other parts of NCR, a few minutes ago. The tremors were felt for approximately 30 seconds, say early reports.
16:09 How do bomb-sniffing dogs sniff bombs?
In the aftermath of the Boston Marathon explosions, some pertinent questions: How do dogs sniff bombs? Read
16:03 'Four Lions' live at Boston?
Micro-blogging site Twitter is abuzz with the similarity between the Boston bombing that killed at least three people and the ending of the film 'Four Lions', in which terrorists target the London Marathon. "Four lions is basically the boston bombings. Thats weird and scary," says @GeorgeeAndrews.
"Would it be fair to say that those behind the Boston bombings are fans of #FourLions?" says @SwalehaK. While @EvanWPhillips says, "The tragedy in Boston today had some morbid similarity to Four Lions. Life imitates art." "Is it just me or do these bombings in Boston remind you of four lions?" asks @MattRingrose. British film 'Four Lions' (2010) is story of a group of homegrown terrorists from Sheffield, England.
"Would it be fair to say that those behind the Boston bombings are fans of #FourLions?" says @SwalehaK. While @EvanWPhillips says, "The tragedy in Boston today had some morbid similarity to Four Lions. Life imitates art." "Is it just me or do these bombings in Boston remind you of four lions?" asks @MattRingrose. British film 'Four Lions' (2010) is story of a group of homegrown terrorists from Sheffield, England.
15:58 All is well, says BJP: No dispute with JD(U)
BJP spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussain, tries damage control. Latest statement from the party says that the JD(U)-BJP coalition is running in Bihar. "There is no immediate dispute."
For context, see our 15:11 pm post
For context, see our 15:11 pm post
15:44
Just in: Former President Pervez Musharraf's candidature rejected in all four parliamentary constituencies for which he had filed nomination.
15:32 The man holding the bloodied flag at the Boston Marathon
It's an iconic image that captures a moment when one Boston Marathon bystander became much more.With blood-soaked hands and wearing a cowboy hat, Carlos Arredondo helps rush a young man in a wheelchair to safety after explosions turned Monday's race into a disaster scene. Read
15:26 Oz teen thrown off bus for racist rant against Asian passenger
A bus driver in Sydney has been praised for throwing a group of teenage girls after they racially abused another passenger.
Other passengers on the bus travelling in the bus also leapt to the defence of the woman when the group of five teenagers, who had been drinking, began abusing and targeting the woman on Saturday night.
According to the Sydney Morning Herald, passenger Bernd Fichtner said that the driver stopped the bus and ejected the girls, who were estimated to be aged between 14 and 17.
The retired teacher said the girls were drinking at the back of the bus on Saturday when they began abusing a female passenger because she was Asian.
Other passengers on the bus travelling in the bus also leapt to the defence of the woman when the group of five teenagers, who had been drinking, began abusing and targeting the woman on Saturday night.
According to the Sydney Morning Herald, passenger Bernd Fichtner said that the driver stopped the bus and ejected the girls, who were estimated to be aged between 14 and 17.
The retired teacher said the girls were drinking at the back of the bus on Saturday when they began abusing a female passenger because she was Asian.
15:23 Indias most transparent politicians?
A small group of India's lawmakers have voluntarily published their income tax returns in support of a campaign to push for more transparency among Indian politicians. Read
15:12
While on Bihar, read this: Once derided, Bihar's police become model for other states.
15:11 Bihar Dy CM: Nitish's comments anti-BJP, unwarranted
Bihar deputy chief minister Sushil Modi has hit out at chief minister Nitish Kumar's statement saying in the National Executive meet was "against our leaders and completely unwarranted. The state BJP does share the sentiments of Nitish Kumar."
Against the backdrop of questions raised by BJP over his earlier silence on 2002 Gujarat riots, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday appeared to attack Narendra Modi, saying maintenance of law and order was state government's responsibility.
Kumar's response came after RJD chief Lalu Prasad asked if the Chief Minister was genuinely opposed to Modi why did he not quit as the Railway Minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government after the Gujarat riots in 2002.
Kumar reminded Prasad that a point by point rebuttal was given to the RJD chief when he had raised the issue in Parliament long back. "I have given him a point by point rebuttal. The job of a Railway Minister is to look after railway safety but the responsibility to look into the problem of public order, law and order belongs to the states.
Reflecting widening rift with JD-U, BJP had yesterday said that Nitish Kumar was "nobody" to give a certificate on secularism to his Gujarat counterpart.
BJP spokesperson Meenakshi Lekhi had rubbed in the point that Kumar was part of the Vajpayee government when the Godhra incident took place in 2002 and still continued to be a part of NDA.
The ruptures in NDA over the issue surfaced after JDU on Sunday virtually vetoed Modi's much speculated projection as BJP's Prime Ministerial nominee demanding a "secular" candidate for it.
Against the backdrop of questions raised by BJP over his earlier silence on 2002 Gujarat riots, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday appeared to attack Narendra Modi, saying maintenance of law and order was state government's responsibility.
Kumar's response came after RJD chief Lalu Prasad asked if the Chief Minister was genuinely opposed to Modi why did he not quit as the Railway Minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government after the Gujarat riots in 2002.
Kumar reminded Prasad that a point by point rebuttal was given to the RJD chief when he had raised the issue in Parliament long back. "I have given him a point by point rebuttal. The job of a Railway Minister is to look after railway safety but the responsibility to look into the problem of public order, law and order belongs to the states.
Reflecting widening rift with JD-U, BJP had yesterday said that Nitish Kumar was "nobody" to give a certificate on secularism to his Gujarat counterpart.
BJP spokesperson Meenakshi Lekhi had rubbed in the point that Kumar was part of the Vajpayee government when the Godhra incident took place in 2002 and still continued to be a part of NDA.
The ruptures in NDA over the issue surfaced after JDU on Sunday virtually vetoed Modi's much speculated projection as BJP's Prime Ministerial nominee demanding a "secular" candidate for it.
14:56 The Everyday Sexism Project: A year of shouting back
When Jane Martinson first set up a website to collate women's routine experiences of prejudice and harassment, she didn't expect to receive so many horror stories -- nor so much hate mail. Read
14:49 1984 anti-Sikh riots: Verdict for Sajjan Kumar on April 30
A Delhi court to pronounce verdict in 1984 anti-Sikh riots case in which Sajjan Kumar and five others are facing trial, on April 30.
The CBI today concluded its arguments in the trial of Congress leader Sajjan Kumar and five others in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case, rebutting the defence and said the nature and extent of crime shows the vast network and larger conspiracy behind it.
"The nature and extent of crime, protection to the perpetrators, disappearance of evidence and non-registration of cases show that there was a vast network and a larger conspiracy behind it," CBI Special Prosecutor B S Cheema said while wrapping up arguments in the case.
During his submissions made before District Judge J R Aryan, Cheema, assisted by advocate D P Singh, alleged that Kumar, who was the then Delhi MP, was involved in the killings.
The CBI today concluded its arguments in the trial of Congress leader Sajjan Kumar and five others in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case, rebutting the defence and said the nature and extent of crime shows the vast network and larger conspiracy behind it.
"The nature and extent of crime, protection to the perpetrators, disappearance of evidence and non-registration of cases show that there was a vast network and a larger conspiracy behind it," CBI Special Prosecutor B S Cheema said while wrapping up arguments in the case.
During his submissions made before District Judge J R Aryan, Cheema, assisted by advocate D P Singh, alleged that Kumar, who was the then Delhi MP, was involved in the killings.
14:40 Caste discrimination in the UK must be outlawed
No community should be exempt from equalities legislation. The government should stop blocking this extension of fairness to all. Read the full story here.
14:30 FBI Boston probe points to Mid-East terrorists
FBI Boston Marathon probe points to Mid-East terrorists with domestic support, reports Debka. The site is run by former Israeli intelligence personnel. Read
14:26 Jaipur hit-and-run shows culture of apathy in India runs deep
In his lengthy and somewhat bizarre speech at a recent business event, Congress party Vice President Rahul Gandhi shared a story he heard from an Italian friend who had been to China.
"I was in a bus in China, the bus hit a man. The driver picked up the man and put him on the side of the road and we carried on,' Mr. Gandhi quoted his shocked friend as saying.
"There is no complexity there,' said Mr. Gandhi.Mr. Gandhi's point: India is more complex. He implied that in India, someone would have done more to help the man, and that India -- unlike China '" is a country of Good Samaritans.This comment wasn't just inappropriate, it was wrong; a culture of apathy runs deep in India, too. Here's why
"I was in a bus in China, the bus hit a man. The driver picked up the man and put him on the side of the road and we carried on,' Mr. Gandhi quoted his shocked friend as saying.
"There is no complexity there,' said Mr. Gandhi.Mr. Gandhi's point: India is more complex. He implied that in India, someone would have done more to help the man, and that India -- unlike China '" is a country of Good Samaritans.This comment wasn't just inappropriate, it was wrong; a culture of apathy runs deep in India, too. Here's why
14:23 River Ganges inspires MRSA treatment
In the winter of 1895, a British scientist made a discovery in the River Ganges that is now informing cutting edge research in Bangalore on how to combat antibiotic resistant disease. Read
14:21 Why new home can save India's lions
Conservationists say splitting India's small population of Asiatic lions will help prevent the endangered animal from being wiped out.India's Supreme Court on Monday ruled that some of the 411 Asiatic lions that live exclusively in Gir Forest in Gujarat state will be moved to Kuno Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh. Read
14:11 Sanjay Dutt's hearing postponed to tomorrow
The hearing on Sanjay Dutt's plea has been postponed to tomorrow. He is supposed to surrender on Thursday. The actor had pleaded that he should be granted more time to surrender in order to complete his film projects as around Rs 300 crore has been invested by the producers in these projects and these would be affected. Dutt has to surrender by April 18 and has asked six months to surrender. His plea will be heard by the Supreme Court at 10:30 am tomorrow.
13:55 The working theories for who did this
Another update on the Boston Marathon attack: The perpetrator or perpetrators behind the two bombs that exploded within a few seconds of each other near the finish line of the 2013 Boston Marathon are still unknown.
But there are working theories. Terrorists often plan their strikes on anniversaries and commemorative dates.
Yesterday marked both a patriotic holiday in Massachusetts and Israel Independence Day, which raises the possibility of Islamic terrorism. April 15 is also the deadline for filing federal taxes, which suggests the possibility of homegrown, antitax extremists. The pathological possibilities abound at this point. Read the full report
But there are working theories. Terrorists often plan their strikes on anniversaries and commemorative dates.
Yesterday marked both a patriotic holiday in Massachusetts and Israel Independence Day, which raises the possibility of Islamic terrorism. April 15 is also the deadline for filing federal taxes, which suggests the possibility of homegrown, antitax extremists. The pathological possibilities abound at this point. Read the full report
13:45 Maha govt: Intel inputs on terror attacks in Mumbai
Maharashtra Home Minister RR Patil says the government has received intelligence inputs on possible terror attacks on Mumbai. The intelligence has been shared with the police. The possibility that the terror attacks will be carried out by women suicide squads is likely. Patil shared the information in the state assembly today.
13:31 Pakistani Taliban deny Boston Marathon blasts
The Pakistani Taliban, which claimed the 2010 Times Square bomb plot, on Tuesday denied anything to do with explosions that killed three people and wounded more than 144 in Boston.
"We believe in attacking US and its allies but we are not involved in this attack,' Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) spokesman Ehsanullah Ehsan told AFP."We have no connection to this bombing but we will continue to target them wherever possible,' Ehsan added.
"We believe in attacking US and its allies but we are not involved in this attack,' Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) spokesman Ehsanullah Ehsan told AFP."We have no connection to this bombing but we will continue to target them wherever possible,' Ehsan added.
13:26 Big Ben to be silenced for Thatcher's funeral
For the first time in 48 years, London's iconic Big Ben will fall silent tomorrow as a mark of respect for 'Iron lady' Margaret Thatcher's funeral.
The former Conservative Prime Minister died of a stroke here last Monday aged 87. She will be given a ceremonial funeral with military honours, one step down from a state funeral.
It is the first time that the bells of Big Ben and the Great Clock at the Palace of Westminster will have been halted in this way since the funeral of Winston Churchill in 1965.
The former Conservative Prime Minister died of a stroke here last Monday aged 87. She will be given a ceremonial funeral with military honours, one step down from a state funeral.
It is the first time that the bells of Big Ben and the Great Clock at the Palace of Westminster will have been halted in this way since the funeral of Winston Churchill in 1965.
13:16 Katju heads to US to deliver lectures
Our sources in Delhi tell us that Justice Markandey Katju is busy trying to seek pardons for Khalistani terrorist Bhullar and actor Sanjay Dutt. He met the Prime Minister to convince the government to seek more time for Dutt to surrender -- an extension of at least six more months.
Katju, who is the chairman of the Press Council is planning to take a month off during peak summer to deliver lectures in US colleges. But many press council members are of the opinion that Katju can plead for Dutt's pardon being the chairman of the Press Council, but why should he interfere in other issues. Some senior legal luminaries are also of this same view, but they have been saying that at least for a month, US students will receive knowledge and the Indian media relief from Katju.
Katju, who is the chairman of the Press Council is planning to take a month off during peak summer to deliver lectures in US colleges. But many press council members are of the opinion that Katju can plead for Dutt's pardon being the chairman of the Press Council, but why should he interfere in other issues. Some senior legal luminaries are also of this same view, but they have been saying that at least for a month, US students will receive knowledge and the Indian media relief from Katju.
13:02 Aarushi case: Parents murderers, says CBI cop
Just in: CBI Superintendent of Police A G L Kaul deposing before the Ghaziabad court in the Aarushi-Hemraj double murder case, says no one could have come from outside and committed the murders. The double murder could only have been committed by Rajesh and Nupur Talwar. Kaul has just finished deposing before the Ghaziabad court.
During the previous hearing on April 9, an official of the Gujarat Forensic Science University (GFSU) had told the court that the crime was possibly committed using a golf club and surgical knife, adding that no outsider except the Talwar couples was involved in the murder.
Teenager Aarushi and domestic help Hemraj were murdered in 2008 and her parents, dentists Rajesh and Nupur Talwar, are being tried for the killings.
During the previous hearing on April 9, an official of the Gujarat Forensic Science University (GFSU) had told the court that the crime was possibly committed using a golf club and surgical knife, adding that no outsider except the Talwar couples was involved in the murder.
Teenager Aarushi and domestic help Hemraj were murdered in 2008 and her parents, dentists Rajesh and Nupur Talwar, are being tried for the killings.
12:47 Marines' case: Why Italy doesn't want NIA probe
The Centre has told the Supreme Court that the probe against the Italian marines in the fishermen killing case will be completed within 60 days. The Italian government however tells the SC that the NIA has no jurisdiction to probe the case against the marines.
Italy is concerned because the NIA is empowered to deal with maritime piracy and terrorism and serious charges under these can lead to a call for the death penalty.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had handed over the marines case to the NIA and a case was registered against them. The move had come following the Supreme Court's ruling that the Kerala government had no jurisdiction to prosecute the two.
Italy is concerned because the NIA is empowered to deal with maritime piracy and terrorism and serious charges under these can lead to a call for the death penalty.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had handed over the marines case to the NIA and a case was registered against them. The move had come following the Supreme Court's ruling that the Kerala government had no jurisdiction to prosecute the two.
12:44 What the Boston Marathon really means
The New Yorker on what the Boston Marathon means.
The Boston Marathon is America's iconic race, the oldest marathon in the country, and the most important. Eighteen people ran it in 1897; last year, thirty-five thousand did.
It's the site of Alberto Salazar and Dick Beardsley's 1982 duel in the sun. It's where Kip Litton may have ridden a bike, and where Rosie Ruiz definitely took the subway. The race is also iconic because you have to qualify. A New York Marathon shirt means someone got lucky in a race lottery. A Boston Marathon shirt means they've run fast. Here's more
The Boston Marathon is America's iconic race, the oldest marathon in the country, and the most important. Eighteen people ran it in 1897; last year, thirty-five thousand did.
It's the site of Alberto Salazar and Dick Beardsley's 1982 duel in the sun. It's where Kip Litton may have ridden a bike, and where Rosie Ruiz definitely took the subway. The race is also iconic because you have to qualify. A New York Marathon shirt means someone got lucky in a race lottery. A Boston Marathon shirt means they've run fast. Here's more
12:35 At the mercy of the Executive
By upholding the rejection of clemency to Bhullar because it was a terrorist case, the court seems to have created a category of the rarest of rarest of rare cases. Read
12:34 NaMo and Nitishs dharma
The Bharatiya Janata Party and its principal ally, the Janata Dal (United), have warred and sparred before -- and almost always over Narendra Modi. With the general election looming large, it was a given that Nitish Kumar's digs at Mr. Modi would become progressively more unsubtle. Read
12:31 Italy to SC: Don't want NIA probe into marines' case
Italy has told the Supreme Court that it objects to the National Investigation Agency taking over the marines' case. Italy is concerned because the NIA is empowered to deal with maritime piracy and terrorism and serious charges under these can lead to a call for the death penalty.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had handed over the marines case to the NIA and a case was registered against them. The move had come following the Supreme Court's ruling that the Kerala government had no jurisdiction to prosecute the two. Full story on IBN Live
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had handed over the marines case to the NIA and a case was registered against them. The move had come following the Supreme Court's ruling that the Kerala government had no jurisdiction to prosecute the two. Full story on IBN Live
12:24 Bomb expert: Attack 'easily' one-man job
The Boston Marathon bombing that killed three and injured 144 may have been virtually impossible to prevent, security experts said.
"When the terrorist has planned an attack and they're going to utilize an IED as their weapons of strategic influence, it's hard to stop that in a free and open society,' said Grant Haber, a security consultant who runs the firm American 'Innovations. "It's difficult. Where we can do a better job is focusing our efforts via a whole-of-government approach, and focus our 'efforts on gaining a better control on homemade explosive precursors.' Read the full story here.
Pic: The eight-year-old boy, one of three, who died in the attack.
"When the terrorist has planned an attack and they're going to utilize an IED as their weapons of strategic influence, it's hard to stop that in a free and open society,' said Grant Haber, a security consultant who runs the firm American 'Innovations. "It's difficult. Where we can do a better job is focusing our efforts via a whole-of-government approach, and focus our 'efforts on gaining a better control on homemade explosive precursors.' Read the full story here.
Pic: The eight-year-old boy, one of three, who died in the attack.
12:15 London Marathon WILL go ahead
Police have vowed to review security around the London Marathon following the devastating bomb attack in Boston.Last night's horror unfolded just six days before thousands of athletes. Read
12:12
Update on the Boston blasts: Witness: 'I saw blood everywhere. Read
12:08 10 Naxals killed in encounter
Ten Naxals were killed and several others injured in an encounter with security forces in Maoist-hit Sukma district of Chhattisgarh today. Eleven automatic guns were also recovered from the encounter spot.
On a tip off about the presence of Naxals in the forest area of Puarti village, a search was launched by Greyhounds force of Andhra Pradesh and district force early this morning, Inspector General of Police Bastar Range Himanshu Gupta said.
"On spotting the security forces, ultras opened fire and in the retaliatory action, nine rebels were killed and several others were injured," he said.
On a tip off about the presence of Naxals in the forest area of Puarti village, a search was launched by Greyhounds force of Andhra Pradesh and district force early this morning, Inspector General of Police Bastar Range Himanshu Gupta said.
"On spotting the security forces, ultras opened fire and in the retaliatory action, nine rebels were killed and several others were injured," he said.
12:07 SC to hear Sanjay Dutt's surrender plea at 2 pm
Sanjay Dutt's plea will be taken up by another bench at around 2.30 pm. The actor had pleaded that he should be granted more time to surrender in order to complete his film projects as around Rs 300 crore has been invested by the producers in these projects and these would be affected. Dutt has to surrender by April 18.
12:07 Wife swapping charges: Antony promises strong action
Defence Minister A K Antony today promised to take strong action if anybody was found guilty in the alleged Kochi wife swapping case in which the wife of a navy officer has filed an FIR against her husband and his superiors.
"Whenever there is a complaint, we take strong action. After inquiry, if anyone is found guilty, we take strong action and exemplary punishment is given.This is our track record and this will continue.
"In the Kochi case also, three separate investigations are going on," he told reporters on the sidelines of the IAF Commanders' conference. In the Kochi case, the Defence Minister has taken a tough stand that a proper investigation should be done and guilty, if any, should be punished.
However, the Navy has been dismissive of the serious allegations levelled by the wife of the officer and had even told the Defence Ministry that there was no merit in the allegations.
Also read: Wife-swap allegations buffet navy
"Whenever there is a complaint, we take strong action. After inquiry, if anyone is found guilty, we take strong action and exemplary punishment is given.This is our track record and this will continue.
"In the Kochi case also, three separate investigations are going on," he told reporters on the sidelines of the IAF Commanders' conference. In the Kochi case, the Defence Minister has taken a tough stand that a proper investigation should be done and guilty, if any, should be punished.
However, the Navy has been dismissive of the serious allegations levelled by the wife of the officer and had even told the Defence Ministry that there was no merit in the allegations.
Also read: Wife-swap allegations buffet navy
11:35 SC refuses to extend time to 1993 convict Zaibunisa
Just in: The Supreme Court has refused to the extend the time for surrender of 1993 Bombay Blasts case convict Zaibunisa Kazi. She had appealed to the SC that her sentencing be kept in abeyance till
the Maharashtra Governor or the President decide on her pardon.The SC says if this is allowed the President's home will be flooded with requests.
Zaibunissa's sentence of 5 years by the Bombay High court was
upheld by the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court had said that all
convicts should surrender within 4 weeks of its upholding the Bombay
High Court judgement.
11:29
Both bombs were timed to explode four hours into the marathon when maximum people were expected to participate.
11:28 The Boston Marathon Conspiracy theories begin
It literally took only minutes for the conspiracy theories to start after news broke about the twin explosions in Boston. Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones, who has yet to find a tragedy he couldn't exploit, wasted no time. Read what he has to say.
11:26
A Pakistani Response to the Boston Marathon Bombing. Read the blog.
11:26
Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh writes to US President Barack Obama expressing shock and sadness over the outrageous Boston attack.
11:23 Bombs full of ball bearings
The Boston Marathon bombs may have been packed with ball bearings, which could explain why so many victims lost feet, calves and ankles in the horrific explosions, it was revealed Monday night.
Surgeons at hospitals across the city are reportedly pulling the vicious pieces of metal shrapnel - popular with makers of improvised explosive devices the world over - from the bodies of many of the 144 victims who were wounded in the twin blasts. Read more
Surgeons at hospitals across the city are reportedly pulling the vicious pieces of metal shrapnel - popular with makers of improvised explosive devices the world over - from the bodies of many of the 144 victims who were wounded in the twin blasts. Read more
11:21 Boston blasts: Who is this man walking on the roof?
A picture posted on Twitter shows an individual walking on the roof directly overlooking one of the blasts at the Boston Marathon. The picture of the mystery person was posted shortly after the terror attack and raises the eerily possibility that one of the perpetrators watched as the carnage was unleashed.
Law-enforcement sources told the New York Post that a 20-year-old Saudi man was detained at a Boston hospital. Read more
Law-enforcement sources told the New York Post that a 20-year-old Saudi man was detained at a Boston hospital. Read more
11:13 Doc near finishing line: People fell all around me
Allan Panter, a doctor who was near the finish line waiting for his wife to finish the race, told CNN he was standing about 20 to 25 feet from the first blast. He said he treated victims on the street after the explosion. "I saw at least six to seven people down next to me," he said. "They protected me from the blast. One lady expired. One gentleman lost both his (lower) limbs. Most of the injuries were lower extremities." The bombs had been kept 500 to 100 yards apart. The bombs were small and crude in nature. Seventeen of the 144 injured are in a critical condition.
11:08
Comedian and writer Patton Oswalt's blog on the Boston Marathon bombings: The good outnumber you and we always will. Must read.
11:05 World markets fall after Boston marathon blasts
World markets fell Tuesday as investors considered weaker than expected economic growth in China and the implications of a terrorist attack in Boston. Read
11:00 FBI takes over coordination of 'terrorist inquiry'
The incident reportedly happened about three hours after the winners crossed the line. The FBI has taken over co-ordination of what it described as a "potential terrorist inquiry".
Boston police say officers are working around the clock and all leave has been cancelled. At least 17 people are critically wounded, officials say, and the injuries include several amputations.
New York, Washington, San Francisco, have been put on high alert.
Boston police say officers are working around the clock and all leave has been cancelled. At least 17 people are critically wounded, officials say, and the injuries include several amputations.
New York, Washington, San Francisco, have been put on high alert.
10:55 Both explosions near finish line of Marathon
If you've just joined us: Two explosions near the finish line of the Boston Marathon - the oldest and most prestigious race of its kind in the US - have left at least three people dead and more than 100 injured.
The road was strewn with debris, and bloodied runners and spectators were treated at the scene; Boston's police commissioner urged city residents to stay indoors US President Barack Obama said it was not known what caused the blasts but vowed any group found to be responsible would feel the "full weight of justice"-- BBC
The road was strewn with debris, and bloodied runners and spectators were treated at the scene; Boston's police commissioner urged city residents to stay indoors US President Barack Obama said it was not known what caused the blasts but vowed any group found to be responsible would feel the "full weight of justice"-- BBC
10:52 US cops looking for dark-skinned suspect
Investigators have warned police to be on the lookout for a "darker-skinned or black male" with a possible foreign accent in connection with bombings at the Boston Marathon, according to a law enforcement advisory obtained by CNN. The man was seen with a black backpack and sweatshirt and was trying to get into a restricted area about five minutes before the first explosion, the lookout notice states.
10:49 Boston cops looking for dark-skinned suspect
Doctors say most of the injuries are on the lower parts of the body. Early reports point to a suspect believed to be a dark-skinned person carrying a black backpack.
10:45
Read this CNN report on 'What we know about the terror attack, aftermath at the Boston marathon' for the most comprehensive and authoritative account of what happened.
10:39 Dr Singh condemns Boston blasts
Just In: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh condemns Boston bombings, expresses solidarity with the US in the struggle against terror.
10:30 N Korea threatens to attack S Korea without warning
In news from other trouble spots, North Korea has warned that it would not give any advance notice before attacking South Korea.
Pyongyang said in a statement published by its official news agency, that the country's 'retaliatory action will start without any notice from now.'
North Korea said it was responding to what it called insults from the "puppet authorities" in the South, claiming that there had been a rally against North Korea in Seoul, CNN reports.
According to the report, it called the rally a 'monstrous criminal act.'
The new warning came a day after North Koreans celebrated the birthday of their country''s founder, Kim Il Sung, who launched the Korean War.
10:04 Boston investigators hunt for blast videos, photos
US investigators are poring over video and photographs from the widely watched Boston Marathon for clues to determine who is responsible for two bombs that exploded near the finish line on Monday, killing three people and injuring more than 100, officials said.
Because the Boston Marathon is run by 27,000 people and some 500,000 come to watch every year, officials expect plenty of visual evidence into what happened before and after two devices exploded as hundreds of runners streamed to the finish line at Copley Plaza in Boston's Back Bay neighbourhood.
As of now, no agency had found any evidence that there was any obvious warning of the attack, nor has any claim of responsibility for the attacks surfaced.
"There were no known threats," Boston Police Commissioner Ed Davis said.
09:59 FBI to take lead in Boston bombings probe
CNN reports: The FBI is taking the lead in investigating the double bombing that caused death and destruction near the finish line of the Boston Marathon on Monday, authorities said.
A range of different agencies are involved in the hunt to find out who carried out the lethal attack and why, but officials are cautioning that very little is known at this point.
"This will be a combined federal, state and local effort," Richard DesLauriers, the special agent in charge of the FBI's Boston Division, said at a news briefing by law enforcement officials on Monday evening.
Describing it as a "criminal investigation" that is also "a potential terrorist investigation," DesLauriers said the FBI was declaring federal jurisdiction over the matter through the Boston Joint Terrorism Task Force.
09:05 London race security under review after Boston blasts
Security for Sunday's London Marathon is being reviewed after Monday's explosions near the finish line of the Boston Marathon killed at least two people and injured 23.
"We will be reviewing our security arrangements in partnership with the London Marathon," Metropolitan Police chief superintendent Julia Pendry said in a statement.
"We are deeply saddened and shocked by the news from Boston," London Marathon chief executive Nick Bitel said.
"Our immediate thoughts are with the people there and their families. It is a very sad day for athletics and for our friends and colleagues in marathon running. Our security plan is developed jointly with the Metropolitan Police and we were in contact with them as soon as we heard the news," said Bitel before adding the London race would definitely go ahead.
08:29 Boston blasts: 'It felt like a huge cannon'
"It felt like a huge cannon," a witness told CNN about one of the Boston blasts.
Allan Panter, a doctor who was near the finish line waiting for his wife to finish the race, told CNN he was standing about 20 to 25 feet from the first blast. He said he treated victims on the street after the explosion.
"I saw at least six to seven people down next to me," he said. "They protected me from the blast. One lady expired. One gentleman lost both his (lower) limbs. Most of the injuries were lower extremities."
06:52 It's a terrorist attack, says US Senator Feinstein
Several mega cities in the US, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Washington, have been put on alert after three explosions in Boston that left at least two dead, besides injuring many.
Security in and around all critical establishments has been tightened and, according to a CNN report, flight movements over the bomb blast site in Boston have been banned.
Although both President Barack Obama and the FBI have chosen not to jump to any conclusions about the nature of the explosions, Senator Dianna Feinstein, who is chairwoman of the powerful Senate Intelligence Committee, termed it a terrorist attack, based on her understanding.
04:33 Those responsible will feel full weight of justice: Obama
President Obama said that officials do not know who is behind the attack on the Boston Marathon, but vowed that those responsible will "feel the full weight of justice."
04:28 Boston blasts: Eight children being treated for injuries
Any event with multiple explosive devices - as this appears to be - is clearly an act of terror, the White House has said.
At least 110 people have been treated at area hospitals after the bombings, including eight children.
04:26 Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist tweets on Boston blasts
Nicholas Kristof, the Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist, who was in Boston, tweeted: Horrifying: CNN reporting that an 8-year-old child is one of those killed in the marathon blasts.
04:25 Over 86 injured in Boston marathon explosion
Boston-area hospitals reporting 86 people injured from marathon explosion; Mass General hospital says 6 patients critical, 5 seriously hurt.
04:13 How Boston PD could examine videos from bombing
As investigators try to figure out what happened today during the bombings at the Boston Marathon, they'll turn to video taken at the scene of the explosions.
In addition to any closed-circuit television cameras lining Boylston Street and its surroundings, The Bureau Chief of Public Information, Cheryl Fiandaca, called for members of the public to send in video from near the finish line.
04:03 Kerry typically would have been at the Boston Marathon
Secretary of State John Kerry has a long history with the Boston Marathon and has been on the scene several times in the past few years, but this year he was returning from his 10-day trip to the Middle East and Asia.
On Monday afternoon, Kerry was informed of the two explosions that caused at least 2 deaths and dozens of injuries near the marathon's finish line by a senior aide as his plane approached O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, a senior State Department official told The Cable.
04:02 Make no mistake, we will get to the bottom of this: Obama
In a short 3-minute statement just after 6 p.m. Monday, President Obama reflected on the horror of today's situation.
'On days like today there are no Republicans and Democrats '" we are Americans united in our concern for our fellow citizens.' Obama highlighted the uncertainty of the situation: "We still do not know how did this or why, and people shouldn't jump to conclusions before we have all the facts.'
But the president affirmed that the U.S. is gathering as much information as possible. "But make no mistake we will get to the bottom of this. And we will find out who did this. We will find out why they did this. Any responsible individuals '" and responsible groups '" will feel the full weight of justice.'
The president did not call the incident a terror attack, however.
03:52 President Obama assures action
President Obama on Boston explosions: "We will find out who did this and we will hold them accountable"
03:36 President Obama to address the nation
President Obama plans to address the nation regarding the fatal explosion in Boston.
He plans to speak at 6:10 p.m. ET from the White House.
03:32 Boston police guarding a possible suspect
Federal officials told NBC News that the Boston police are guarding a "possible suspect" who had been wounded in the blasts.
03:27 Flights banned over Boston Marathon blast site
As the horror of the explosions near the finish line of the nation's most famous marathon sank in, government officials mobilized to respond on Monday afternoon.
FBI director Robert Mueller briefed President Barack Obama by telephone, the White House said.Aviation authorities banned planes from flying over of the site of the explosion, the Federal Aviation Administrion said.
The temporary flight restriction came at the request of law enforcement and extends three nautical miles in all directions, up to a height of 3,000 feet, FAA spokeswoman Arlene Salac said.
03:01 Cell phone service shut down in Boston
Cell phone service shut down in Boston to prevent remote detonations, reports the New York Post
02:49 Nirupama Rao offers assistance
Any Indian nationals if affected by tragic blasts at #BostonMarathon may please contact @IndianEmbassyUS /202-939-7000, Indian Ambassador to the United States Nirupama Rao twitted
02:32 Boston police confirm third explosion in city
Boston police confirm third explosion in city at the JFK library and are treating all three incidents as related, reports CNN
02:14 The marathon refers to the blasts as bombs
Charles Lister tweets: BBC, quoting Boston police trooper: "At least 25-30 people have at least one leg missing, or an ankle missing, or two legs missing"
02:12 Don't use cell phones at scene of blasts, say police
The police are telling people at the scene of Boston Marathon explosions to not use cell phones as it could set off other devices, reported ABC News
02:08 IED-style bombs recovered
CNN is reporting that the two unexploded devices found at Boston Marathon is believed to be homemade, IED-style bombs.
02:02 2 more explosives found, says Intelligence official
Intelligence officia say two more explosives have been found at Boston Marathon.
The explosives are being dismantled.
The air traffic to Boston has temporarily been restricted
01:59 Image from Boston blast site
The President has been notified of the incident in Boston.
His administration is in contact with state and local authorities. He directed his administration to provide whatever assistance is necessary in the investigation and response.
Photo credit: Steve Silva
01:50 Live update on Boston blasts
Boston.com Live blog: Explosions in Copley Square.
Click here to get updates.
01:47 12 dead, nearly 50 injured Boston blasts: N Y Post
Two explosions shattered the euphoria of the Boston Marathon finish line on Monday, sending authorities out on the course to carry off the injured while the stragglers in the 26.2-mile trek from Hopkinton were rerouted away from the smoking site of the blasts.
A federal law-enforcement source told The Post there are at least 12 dead and nearly 50 injured. Fox News reported that Massachusetts General Hospital was treating 10 people with amputated limbs and all operating rooms were on hold.
Law-enforcement sources said at least the first explosion occurred in the lobby of the Fairmont Hotel.
01:44 Boston Marathon 2013: Route information
Click here to see the Boston Marathon 2013: Route information
Footage from local television outlets showed police clearing the sidewalks where the first explosion occurred.
It was not immediately clear whether the explosions were accidental. Police and law enforcement officials have cordoned off the area.
01:42 Another explosive found
Police have found an exploded device and will have a controlled explosion within one minute near 600 Boylston across from the Boston Public Library.
Boston Police has said that 22 people have been injured in the blast, while 2 have been killed.
Watch live TV here
01:24 Boston: Blasts occur few seconds apart on opposite sides
The explosions occurred about 2:45 p.m., about an hour after the first of the race's nearly 27,000 runners had crossed the finish line, Frucci said.
The race was halted after the explosions as was subway service into the area.Paramedics were treating several victims at the scene, and police ordered onlookers to back away from the area. Troops from the Massachusetts National Guard were assisting police as well.
01:24 Blasts occur more than five hours after start of race
The blasts occurred more than five hours after the start of the race, at a time when most top athletes were off the course but slower amateur marathoners were still running.
01:12 3 dead in explosions at Boston marathon finish line
The explosions were reported on Boylston Street, near the finish line of the storied race.
The Boston police confirmed they were investigating. Fox news is reporting that three have been killed in the explosion
00:58 2 explosions at Boston marathon finish line
Two explosions at the finish line of the Boston Marathon have resulted in injuries. Bloody spectators were being carried today to the medical tent that had been set up to care for fatigued runners.
Police wove through competitors as they ran back toward the course.
"There are a lot of people down," said one man, whose bib No 17528 identified him as Frank Deruyter. He was not injured, but marathon workers were carrying one woman, who did not appear to be a runner, to the medical area as blood gushed from her leg.
00:57 Iraq attacks kill 55 less than a week before vote
Insurgents in Iraq deployed a series of car bombs as part of highly coordinated attacks that cut across a wide swath of the country today, killing at least 55 on the deadliest day in nearly a month.
The assault bore the hallmarks of a resurgent al-Qaida in Iraq and appeared aimed at sowing fear days before the first elections since U.S. troops withdrew. There was no immediate claim of responsibility, but coordinated attacks are a favorite tactic of al-Qaida's Iraq branch.
00:51 'Obama letter to Putin sends positive signals'
The Obama administration wants to find a way to stop the deterioration in U.S.-Russian relations, top Russian officials said here Monday after meeting with Tom Donilon, the U.S. national security adviser.
A letter from President Obama to Russian President Vladimir Putin, conveyed by Donilon, "is written in a constructive tone and has a number of proposals promoting bilateral dialogue and cooperation,' the Russian leader's foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov, told reporters after the Kremlin get-together.
00:48 3 dead in apparent double murder-suicide by NY cop
A New York City police officer shot her boyfriend, turned the gun on her 1-year-old son and then shot herself in an apparent double murder-suicide at her home today morning, police said.
The bodies were discovered after her 19-year-old son heard an argument between the two adults, escaped out a window and called authorities. By the time police arrived moments later, the three were dead.
The body of the boyfriend, believed to be about 33 years old, was found in the entry of the first-floor apartment on a quiet, tree-lined street in the Flatlands section of Brooklyn, said chief police spokesman Paul Browne. The bodies of the woman and her baby boy were found face up on the bed in her bedroom.
00:27 Russian toddler contracts HIV from transfusion
Doctors in Russia accidentally infected a 16-month-old girl with HIV during a blood transfusion, investigators said today, opening a criminal probe into the case.
The toddler was given blood from an HIV-infected donor at the Number 5 children's hospital in Saint Petersburg, the city's Investigative Committee said in a statement.
It opened a criminal investigation into "providing dangerous services to children", an offence carrying a maximum sentence of six years in prison.
00:25 Syria warplanes pound Damascus: NGO
Syria's air force today carried out several air strikes on rebel enclaves in and around Damascus, while fresh clashes between troops and rebels raged to the east of the capital, a monitoring group said.
"At least one civilian was killed in an air strike on Qaboon" in northeast Damascus, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said, "while regime troops pounded the district of Jubar" in the east. Amateur video distributed by the Syrian Revolution General Commission (SRGC), a network of activists on the ground, showed a cloud of grey smoke rising after the air raid.
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