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Mon, 15 December 2014
India stands shoulder to shoulder with Australia in testing times: Modi
Timeline Refresh
23:53 India stands shoulder to shoulder with Australia in testing times: Modi
Amidst the hostage crisis in Sydney, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tonight said "India stands shoulder to shoulder with Australia during these testing times."
"Our thoughts & prayers are with the people of Sydney & Australia. We stand shoulder to shoulder with them during these testing times", Modi said in a late night tweet. In a separate post on the micro-blogging site this morning, he condemned as 'inhuman' the hostage crisis and said he prays for everybody's safety.
"The incident in Sydney is disturbing. Such acts are inhuman & deeply unfortunate. I pray for everyone's safety," the PM tweeted.
At least 15 people, including two Indians, were today taken hostage at a popular cafe in Sydney in south-east Australia by a man of Iranian origin. An Islamic flag was seen hanging from the window of the cafe.
23:46 How Reuters photog captured THE moment of Sydney siege
Australian police locked down the centre of the country's biggest city after an armed man walked into a busy downtown Sydney cafe, took hostages and forced them to display an Islamic flag.
Reuters photographer Jason Reed captured this image of a hostage running towards police after she escaped the caf and describes the picture behind the story in his blog.
"There is no timetable for covering hostage crises, you have to keep your eye glued to the viewfinder, unflinching, for hour after hour," he wrote.
Read his fascinating story HERE
23:35 Bengaluru artist gives musical tribute to 'Nirbhaya'
A Bengaluru-based music artist has recomposed a Michael Jackson song as a tribute to the December 2012 Delhi gang rape victim.
The song called Man in the Mirror, originally sung by the King of Pop in 1987, has now been recomposed by Pawan Kumar or 'J' as a tribute to the 23-year-old Delhi braveheart, whose brutal rape and subsequent death shook the nation. Kumar today released the first official Michael Jackson cover of the song from India and dedicated it to the para-medical student.
"I wanted to convey my anger over the incident. When I heard this song I really felt that it had a great connection with my thinking. Through this song, I pay my tribute to Nirbhaya," Kumar told reporters here.
Nirbhaya was the name given by a section of the media to the young woman, who was attacked and brutally gang-raped by a group of men in a bus on December 16, 2012. She died around two weeks later.
23:03 AAP promises 20,000 litre free water a month,slash in power tariff
Promising free water for all, 50 per cent cut in power tariff and steps for providing 24-hour electricity, AAP today sought to woo voters ahead of the Delhi assembly polls even as it downplayed Congress claiming that the real contest was between the party and the BJP.
Addressing a 'Delhi Dialogue' event in Sangam Vihar in South Delhi, Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal said within five years of forming the government, water supply line of Delhi Jal Board will be laid across the city and pipeline connections will be provided to the 14 lakh households that do not currently have piped water supply.
"Our party's policy is air and water - the two important elements for survival - should be not charged or taxed upon... Our party's policy is to provide free water to all.
"Every household would get 20,000 litre of free water a month. In next five years, we will ensure piped water to all households in the city," Kejriwal said. The party chose Sangam Vihar as its venue as the area faces acute water crisis.
22:58 Sandy Hook parents sue gun company: You sold 'weapon of choice' for mass murderers
The families of 10 of the victims of the Sandy Hook massacre have filed a joint lawsuit against the makers of the gun that killed their children.
A lawsuit filed Monday by 10 Sandy Hook victims' families claims Adam Lanza would not have been able to kill 26 people in five minutes without his "weapon of choice,' a Bushmaster AR-15.
Read the full story HERE
22:43 5 dead in Philadelphia shootings; police say gunman is army vet
At least five people have been shot and killed at multiple locations in Montgomery, Pa., according to published reports. Authorities haven't confirmed if the shootings are related.
As of 10 am, a male military veteran is barricaded in a house in Souderton, about 35 miles north of Center City Philadelphia according to a report on 6ABC.com. Schools in that area are under a 'shelter in place' meaning no one is allowed in or out of district buildings.
Read the full report HERE
22:29 Sydney cafe siege gunman has been killed: Reports
According to media reports, one of the two people who died in the firefight that ensued after the police stormed the cafe in central Sydney, has been identified as Man Haron Monis, the gunman.
he 50-year-old was described by his former lawyer as an isolated figure, who was acting alone.
The gunman, who arrived in Australia as an Iranian refugee in 1996, achieved notoriety after he sent letters to the families of Australian soldiers who lost their lives in Afghanistan, accusing them of being murderers.
22:15 Another Indian hostage also safe
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said that another Indian, who was held hostage in the Lindt Chocolat Cafe in Sydney, is also safe. She tweeted, "Another Indian hostage Pushpendu Ghosh is also safe."
21:58 I have seen my brother, he is safe: Kin of Indian in Sydney siege
The brother of the Indian who was one of the hostages at the Sydney cafe has confirmed that he is safe and out of any harm's way. Bheero Dhtta Reddy said, " I have seen my brother, he is safe." Vishwakant Ankireddy, an Indian working for Infosys was one of the many who had been taken hostage by Man Haron Monis, a self-declared cleric, who has a long list of criminal charges against him. Infosys had earlier issued a statement saying that they had informed the family of the hostage.
Even the government has confirmed that the Indian who was part of the hostage situation was safe and sound.
21:48 Yuvraj Singh released by Royal Challengers
JUST IN: Yuvraj Singh, who fetched the highest-ever bid of Rs 14 crore in 2014, has been released by the Royal Challengers Bangalore for the next season of the Indian Premier League.
21:34 After 18 hours, Sydney cafe siege comes to an end
After 18 hours, the New South Wales police have confirmed the siege is over. Shots have been fired, but police will not confirm details of injuries or casualties. Reports say that two people have been killed and many others have been injured in the siege.
21:24
JUST IN: The Australian Broadcaster says that two people have been killed and three are in a serious condition.
20:57 Heavily armed police storm Sydney cafe
After five more hostages came running out of the cafe where the gunman has been keeping people hostage since morning, heavily armed gunmen stormed the Lindt Cafe. Loud shots were heard and one injured man was rushed out on a stretcher. One report stated that a police official was injured but there are no confirmations on that.
20:48 5 more hostages run out of Sydney cafe after loud bangs
Around 5 more hostages, men and women, have come running out of the Lindt Chocolat cafe in Sydney after loud shots were heard. The hostages came running out with their hands up in the air. Television cameras also showed the police personnel heading towards the cafe.
20:19 Sydney gunman has a criminal past
Man Haron Monis is a known face to the Australian police. He is also facing more than 40 sexual and indecent assault charges. According to reports, he also practices black magic. Last year, he was charged with being an accessory to the murder of his ex-wife and mother of two.
20:05 Pranab may be discharged from hospital tomorrow
President Pranab Mukherjee is in good spirits and may be discharged tomorrow after remaining in hospital for three days during which he underwent heart procedure after doctors detected a blockage. The President, who turned 79 last week, is in good spirits and progressing well, official sources said today. Doctors at Army's Research and Referral Hospital in the capital, who installed a coronary stent in his artery on Saturday to remove a blockage, recommended that Mukherjee should continue to remain hospitalised for today as a precautionary measure, the sources said.
20:04
The Sydney Morning Herald reports that Man Haron Monis is currently on bail for a string of violent offences and has a conviction for sending offensive letters to the families of deceased Australian soldiers
19:57 Sydney siege gunman identified
According to reports, the man who continues to hold more than a dozen people hostage in Lindt cafe in Sydney has been identified by police as Man Haron Monis.
A self-described cleric, Man Haron Monis, 50, has had run-ins with the police in the past as well. Monis first came to attention of police when he penned poisonous letters to the family of dead Australian soldiers seven years ago.
19:45 Petrol, diesel prices cut down
Just in: Petrol and diesel prices cut by Rs 2 per litre each.
The price reduction will take effect by midnight.
19:28 Delhi Daredevils release Karthik, Vijay, Pietersen & Taylor for next IPL season
The Delhi Daredevils on Monday released Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik, ahead of the upcoming edition of the T20 league.
Karthik has been released by ahead of the auction for the 2015 edition, according to reports.
Further reports stated that other Delhi players, including Kevin Pietersen, Murali Vijay and Ross Taylor were also released by their franchise.
The released players will go into the auction pool again.
19:07 Lone Wolf likely in Sydney siege
A prominent Australian hostage negotiation and terrorism expert has said the Islamic-linked Sydney cafe siege is likely being carried out by a "lone wolf' operator with minimal links to organized terror groups. Read more
19:03 Sydney siege could last for days: Police
NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione suggested that the siege could last for days, saying NSW police had many officers involved in the operation but, "We are certainly looking to increase those numbers in coming days if this drags on."
18:52
Australian newspaper, The Courier-Mail front page ...
18:50 Prayers and hope for a peaceful end to the Sydney hostage crisis
Prayers for the Sydney cafe hostages:
@level9000c i just hope no shots are fired at all in the #sydneysiege
@SabrynaaaUzair Pleaaaaase end peacefully #sydneysiege
@leakurbz Don't think I've ever watched the news for this long. My thoughts go out to all the hostages & I hope they make it out safely.
@level9000c i just hope no shots are fired at all in the #sydneysiege
@SabrynaaaUzair Pleaaaaase end peacefully #sydneysiege
@leakurbz Don't think I've ever watched the news for this long. My thoughts go out to all the hostages & I hope they make it out safely.
18:47
FBI assisting with Sydney hostage crisis.
18:04 Delhi gang-rape victim's family await justice two years on
"They say he (Narendra Modi) is fearless. Will he help us get justice?" asks the father of the December 16 gang-rape victim as he fights back tears while remembering his daughter whose brutal rape and murder two years ago shook the nation's conscience.
Referring to the recent incident where an executive was raped by a Uber cab driver, the father said, "Nothing in India has changed since December 16, 2012. All promises and statements made by our leaders and ministers have turned out to be shallow. Our suffering gives them their moment in limelight."
"My daughter asks me what I have done to get her justice. She asks what am I doing so that many more like her get justice and I wake up to realise how helpless and trivial I am," the father said, adding that he has not slept peacefully even once since that fateful night.
The four adult accused Akshay Thakur, Vinay Sharma, Pawan Gupta and Mukesh were tried by a fast-track court which awarded them death penalty on September 13, 2013.
The Delhi High Court upheld the death penalty in March this year. Now the family is waiting for Supreme Court hearing on the convicts' appeal.
Referring to the recent incident where an executive was raped by a Uber cab driver, the father said, "Nothing in India has changed since December 16, 2012. All promises and statements made by our leaders and ministers have turned out to be shallow. Our suffering gives them their moment in limelight."
"My daughter asks me what I have done to get her justice. She asks what am I doing so that many more like her get justice and I wake up to realise how helpless and trivial I am," the father said, adding that he has not slept peacefully even once since that fateful night.
The four adult accused Akshay Thakur, Vinay Sharma, Pawan Gupta and Mukesh were tried by a fast-track court which awarded them death penalty on September 13, 2013.
The Delhi High Court upheld the death penalty in March this year. Now the family is waiting for Supreme Court hearing on the convicts' appeal.
18:03 Pray for them, pray for their families, says Oz PM
Prime Minister Tony Abbott has told Australians to "go about their business as usual" as authorities respond to a siege in Sydney's Martin Place.
In a brief address to reporters today after a meeting of Australia's national security committee, Abbott said the motivations of the perpetrator were unclear but there were some indications the incident could be politically motivated.
"This is a very disturbing incident. I can understand the concerns and anxieties of the Australian people at a time like this, but our thoughts and prayers must above all go out to the individuals who are caught up in this," Abbott said.
"I can think of almost nothing more distressing, more terrifying than to be caught up in such a situation and our hearts go out to these people," he said.
-- Sydney Morning Herald.
In a brief address to reporters today after a meeting of Australia's national security committee, Abbott said the motivations of the perpetrator were unclear but there were some indications the incident could be politically motivated.
"This is a very disturbing incident. I can understand the concerns and anxieties of the Australian people at a time like this, but our thoughts and prayers must above all go out to the individuals who are caught up in this," Abbott said.
"I can think of almost nothing more distressing, more terrifying than to be caught up in such a situation and our hearts go out to these people," he said.
-- Sydney Morning Herald.
17:58
Enforcement Directorate attaches YSR Congress chief Jaganmohan Reddy's properties worth over Rs 47 crore in money-laundering case.
17:53 Customer #183 escaped being taken hostage by just 15 minutes
Michael says his order was number 183 at the Lindt Chocolat Cafe in Martin Place this morning.
It is a fact that separates the barrister, by about 15 minutes, from the cafe customers now caught up in the siege that has put central Sydney in lockdown.
"The guy who served me ... no doubt [is] being held hostage, which is tragic," he says.
Michael says it was a relatively quiet morning when he placed his 9.22am order before lingering in the cafe for a few minutes after running into a client.
"It wasn't what I would consider to be busy," he says, noting there were about 15 to 20 people, including a cafe staff of at least four, at the time of his visit.
-- The Sydney Morning Herald.
It is a fact that separates the barrister, by about 15 minutes, from the cafe customers now caught up in the siege that has put central Sydney in lockdown.
"The guy who served me ... no doubt [is] being held hostage, which is tragic," he says.
Michael says it was a relatively quiet morning when he placed his 9.22am order before lingering in the cafe for a few minutes after running into a client.
"It wasn't what I would consider to be busy," he says, noting there were about 15 to 20 people, including a cafe staff of at least four, at the time of his visit.
-- The Sydney Morning Herald.
17:47 The MP who said, "Hello, mic testing" in Parliament today
In Parliament today: The 48 AIADMK MPs cut a sorry scene in the House today. With their chief, J Jayalalithaa banned from contesting elections for 10 years and losing her Parliamentary seat, the party seems to have lost political initiative and does not participate in debates.
However, the party contributed to some mirth in the house when AIADMK leader Navneethakrishnan said "Hello, mic testing" before addressing the house.
However, the party contributed to some mirth in the house when AIADMK leader Navneethakrishnan said "Hello, mic testing" before addressing the house.
17:34 Elly Chen: The waitress who escaped the Sydney cafe siege
One of the five hostages to have fled the Lindt cafe siege is a Sydney university student and talented sportswoman.
Photographs of Elly Chen fleeing the cafe on Monday afternoon have gone around the world as the siege at her workplace attracted global attention.
The Sydney Morning Herald reports that she was one of two female cafe workers to run from the cafe about 5pm, an hour after two customers and another staff member fled the building.
The Facebook page of the Sydney student and waitress became a virtual place for her friends to express their fears and worries during her seven hours of captivity.
Then they saw the images of her running into the arms of a police officer, pictures that now feature on hundreds of news websites.
Photographs of Elly Chen fleeing the cafe on Monday afternoon have gone around the world as the siege at her workplace attracted global attention.
The Sydney Morning Herald reports that she was one of two female cafe workers to run from the cafe about 5pm, an hour after two customers and another staff member fled the building.
The Facebook page of the Sydney student and waitress became a virtual place for her friends to express their fears and worries during her seven hours of captivity.
Then they saw the images of her running into the arms of a police officer, pictures that now feature on hundreds of news websites.
17:14 Behind the benches in Parliament today
There was uproar in the Rajya Sabha today and repeated adjournments as Opposition pressed for an immediate debate on the issue of conversions and a reply from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Consequently, there was a deadlock with the government insisting that Home Minister Rajnath Singh would give the reply.
That was the news and here's the gossip from the Lok Sabha.
Chirag Paswan, Lok Sabha MP and LJP chief Ram Vilas Paswan's son, is a regular in Parliament, wore a natty suit today, saluted the chair and took his seat. He was seen chatting with MPs of his age group like the INLD's Dushyant Chautala.
Senior Congress leader Kamal Nath came did not look at Rahul Gandhi who was seated in the third row chatting with Jyotiraditya Scindia, when he entered the Lok Sabha today. And that, dear reader, is very rare.
Congress MP Jairam Ramesh was in Central Hall today and was heard talking about the upcoming calendar of his lectures -- Germany and France in December, London in January and the USA in February.
That was the news and here's the gossip from the Lok Sabha.
Chirag Paswan, Lok Sabha MP and LJP chief Ram Vilas Paswan's son, is a regular in Parliament, wore a natty suit today, saluted the chair and took his seat. He was seen chatting with MPs of his age group like the INLD's Dushyant Chautala.
Senior Congress leader Kamal Nath came did not look at Rahul Gandhi who was seated in the third row chatting with Jyotiraditya Scindia, when he entered the Lok Sabha today. And that, dear reader, is very rare.
Congress MP Jairam Ramesh was in Central Hall today and was heard talking about the upcoming calendar of his lectures -- Germany and France in December, London in January and the USA in February.
16:40 All for one, one for all: Religious leaders unite over Sydney siege
Mosques, synagogues and churches across Australia are inviting the public to gather tonight to pray for a peaceful resolution to the siege in a show of multi-faith unity.
Sydney's Muslim community say they are horrified by the cafe siege and deeply concerned about individuals using spiritual realities for their "misguided political agendas".
The UN Alliance of Civilisations' Aftab Malik, who also works as a scholar-in-residence at the Lebanese Muslim Association in Lakemba in south-west Sydney, said he was shocked by what has taken place.
"My reaction is one of shock, horror, aversion and of deep concern," Malik said."I feel the Muslim community has been facing a series of unfortunate events."
Pic: A rabbi, an Islamic preacher and a Christian priest hold hands in solidarity over the Sydney cafe siege.
Sydney's Muslim community say they are horrified by the cafe siege and deeply concerned about individuals using spiritual realities for their "misguided political agendas".
The UN Alliance of Civilisations' Aftab Malik, who also works as a scholar-in-residence at the Lebanese Muslim Association in Lakemba in south-west Sydney, said he was shocked by what has taken place.
"My reaction is one of shock, horror, aversion and of deep concern," Malik said."I feel the Muslim community has been facing a series of unfortunate events."
Pic: A rabbi, an Islamic preacher and a Christian priest hold hands in solidarity over the Sydney cafe siege.
16:27
@jgramuk Dear #Ghent we're not finished with #sydneysiege yet.
16:20 Beaming selfies a rage outside besieged Lindt cafe
As the Sydney siege nears the 12th hour, beaming selfies with the Lindt cafe in the background continue.
A number of people were spotted taking beaming selfies at the scene. This, while relatives of hostages prayed that the siege end peacefully without casualties.
A gunman holding hostages at the popular cafe in Sydney has demanded the ISIS flag be delivered to him. He also wanted to speak with Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott. Neither of the demands have been met so far.
A number of people were spotted taking beaming selfies at the scene. This, while relatives of hostages prayed that the siege end peacefully without casualties.
A gunman holding hostages at the popular cafe in Sydney has demanded the ISIS flag be delivered to him. He also wanted to speak with Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott. Neither of the demands have been met so far.
16:01 Four armed men enter Belgian apartment
Four armed men have entered a flat in the Belgian city of Ghent and police have sealed off the surrounding area, reports the BBC.
Unconfirmed reports suggested that the four had taken a man hostage and police urged residents to remain indoors for their own safety.
The men burst into the flat in the Dampoort area of the city, in northern Belgium. "They're in the building but it's not clear what's going on inside," a police spokesman said.
Pic: Representational picture of the city of Ghent.
Unconfirmed reports suggested that the four had taken a man hostage and police urged residents to remain indoors for their own safety.
The men burst into the flat in the Dampoort area of the city, in northern Belgium. "They're in the building but it's not clear what's going on inside," a police spokesman said.
Pic: Representational picture of the city of Ghent.
15:50 Lindt statement: Thoughts, prayers with staff, customers
Lindt Chocolate Cafe Australia's Facebook post:
"We would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and kind support over the current situation at the Lindt Chocolate Cafe at Martin Place.
"We are deeply concerned over this serious incident and our thoughts and prayers are with the staff and customers involved and all their friends and families.
"The matter is being dealt with by the authorities and we are waiting for any updates from them."
The siege is still on.
"We would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and kind support over the current situation at the Lindt Chocolate Cafe at Martin Place.
"We are deeply concerned over this serious incident and our thoughts and prayers are with the staff and customers involved and all their friends and families.
"The matter is being dealt with by the authorities and we are waiting for any updates from them."
The siege is still on.
15:26 Farooq Abdullah undergoes successful kidney transplant
Former Union Minister Farooq Abdullah has undergone a successful kidney transplant inLondon, his son and Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah said in Srinagar.
A relieved Omar tweeted this morning "Dad and mum's surgery was a success and the new kidney has started functioning."
Omar, who could not be with his parents as they underwent the surgery because of ongoing elections, thanked people saying "my family joins me in thanking all of U for yr support& prayers."
Abdullah, 77, has been in London for sometime now after his kidney had failed earlier this year. He underwent a surgery yesterday.
Omar, who voted yesterday, had tweeted "My thoughts arewith my parents as they both prepare for surgery today. I wish I could be there with them but that wasn't to be."
President of the ruling National Conference, Abdullah could not campaign for his party during the ongoing Assembly elections.
A relieved Omar tweeted this morning "Dad and mum's surgery was a success and the new kidney has started functioning."
Omar, who could not be with his parents as they underwent the surgery because of ongoing elections, thanked people saying "my family joins me in thanking all of U for yr support& prayers."
Abdullah, 77, has been in London for sometime now after his kidney had failed earlier this year. He underwent a surgery yesterday.
Omar, who voted yesterday, had tweeted "My thoughts arewith my parents as they both prepare for surgery today. I wish I could be there with them but that wasn't to be."
President of the ruling National Conference, Abdullah could not campaign for his party during the ongoing Assembly elections.
15:22
Sydney siege enters the 11th hour.
15:19 Did Sydney gunman make a mistake in choosing flag?
The man holding hostages in the Sydney cafe demanded that an ISIS flag be delivered to him, sparking speculation that he made a mistake in the choice of his flag.
A shahada flag -- a profession of faith in Islam -- read, "There is no god but Allah; Mohammed is his messenger" was held up by the hostages.
The gunman has now demanded an ISIS flag and that he be connected to Australia PM Tony Abbott.
A shahada flag -- a profession of faith in Islam -- read, "There is no god but Allah; Mohammed is his messenger" was held up by the hostages.
The gunman has now demanded an ISIS flag and that he be connected to Australia PM Tony Abbott.
14:59
Infosys statement: "We are also in the process of confirming the whereabouts of all our other employees in the city. We are in constant touch with the local authorities and Indian Consulate in Sydney for updates on the situation on ground."
14:58 Family of Indian hostage informed
Infosys in a statement said, "We can confirm that one Infosys employee is among the hostages at the Lindt Cafe in Sydney. We are also in the process of confirming the whereabouts of all our other employees in the city. We are in constant touch with the local authorities and Indian Consulate in Sydney for updates on the situation on ground."
The company further said that the family of the employee has been informed and that they are extending all possible support to them in this difficult time.
The company further said that the family of the employee has been informed and that they are extending all possible support to them in this difficult time.
14:54 Infosys confirms employee among Sydney siege hostages
Infosys says their employee among the Sydney Siege hostages, reports the Hindustan Times.
14:53 Smriti Irani opts out of 'All is Well'
In other news, Union HRD Minister Smriti Irani has opted out of filmmaker Umesh Shukla's All is Well due to time constraints.
The Abhishek Bachchan-Asin starrer featured Irani opposite industry veteran Rishi Kapoor. The decision to opt out was mutual and amicable, she said.
Irani, a Rajya Sabha MP had commenced shooting for the film in November last year. However, the shoot could not be concluded within the stipulated time frame although the actress-turned politician tried to work around her schedule but it did not work out.
The Abhishek Bachchan-Asin starrer featured Irani opposite industry veteran Rishi Kapoor. The decision to opt out was mutual and amicable, she said.
Irani, a Rajya Sabha MP had commenced shooting for the film in November last year. However, the shoot could not be concluded within the stipulated time frame although the actress-turned politician tried to work around her schedule but it did not work out.
14:41 Gunman shouted at remaining hostages when five escaped
7 News Sydney reports that when the five hostages escaped, the gunman could be seen getting extremely agitated, shouting at the remaining hostages. Hostages inside the Lindt cafe have also been made to hold up an Islamic flag and used as a shield from police snipers.
Pic: The man believed to be the gunman.
Pic: The man believed to be the gunman.
14:37 Purpose and motive of hostage taker not known: Venkaiah
Parliamentary Affairs Minister M Venkaiah Naidu on reports that an Indian IT professional was among the hostages at the Sydney cafe:
"We don't want to discuss it because there is some information that one of our IT persons is also there. So the External Affairs Ministry is keeping in touch with concerned people there -- both our embassy as well as our counterpart also," Naidu told reporters outside Parliament House.
"There is some initial information that some people were taken hostage in Sydney by some person. What is the purpose, what is the motive, (it is) not known and our External Affairs Ministry is keeping in touch with our embassy there in Australia.
"So far information says that people who were held hostages are safe, no harm is done to them. All these information here and there-- nothing has been confirmed about any citizens of our country is in that or not. It is a sensitive matter. I request all people to show restraint till the issue is resolved," he said.
"We don't want to discuss it because there is some information that one of our IT persons is also there. So the External Affairs Ministry is keeping in touch with concerned people there -- both our embassy as well as our counterpart also," Naidu told reporters outside Parliament House.
"There is some initial information that some people were taken hostage in Sydney by some person. What is the purpose, what is the motive, (it is) not known and our External Affairs Ministry is keeping in touch with our embassy there in Australia.
"So far information says that people who were held hostages are safe, no harm is done to them. All these information here and there-- nothing has been confirmed about any citizens of our country is in that or not. It is a sensitive matter. I request all people to show restraint till the issue is resolved," he said.
14:27 One dead, five injured in Imphal bomb blast
Just in: Bomb blast near Mahatma Gandhi Avenue in Imphal (Manipur), one dead five injured.
14:16 Mehdi's 60 pc followers non-Muslims, most Muslims from UK:Govt
More than 60 per cent followers of Mehdi Masroor Biswas, the Bengaluru-based executive, who was running a pro-ISIS twitter account, were non-Muslims and a majority of his Muslim followers were from western countries, particularly the UK, Home Minister Rajnath Singh said today.
Making a suo motu statement in Lok Sabha, he said 24-year-old Mehdi was arrested on December 13 and during interrogation, he indicated that his activities were limited to posting and reposting of pro-ISIS material on his twitter account and social media sites and he has denied having recruited any person for ISIS.
"During interrogation, Mehdi disclosed that more than 60 per cent of his twitter account followers were non-Muslims from the western countries and a majority of his Muslim followers were from the western countries, particularly the UK.
"Mehdi started closely following the developments in Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan through internet during his college days and has been active in the social networking sites since 2009. Over a period of time, Mehdi started interacting with people in social media sites. He has denied having recruited any person for ISIS," he said.
Making a suo motu statement in Lok Sabha, he said 24-year-old Mehdi was arrested on December 13 and during interrogation, he indicated that his activities were limited to posting and reposting of pro-ISIS material on his twitter account and social media sites and he has denied having recruited any person for ISIS.
"During interrogation, Mehdi disclosed that more than 60 per cent of his twitter account followers were non-Muslims from the western countries and a majority of his Muslim followers were from the western countries, particularly the UK.
"Mehdi started closely following the developments in Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan through internet during his college days and has been active in the social networking sites since 2009. Over a period of time, Mehdi started interacting with people in social media sites. He has denied having recruited any person for ISIS," he said.
14:12
Police say that so far, nobody has been harmed or injured. An armed man held several people hostage inside a popular cafe this Monday morning and forced some of them to hold up a black flag with white Arabic writing against the window, sparking a security lock-down in the heart of Australia's commercial capital. The gunman has allegedly warned that four bombs have been planted around the city.
13:57 We can see gunman holding shotgun, hostages huddled in corner'
Journalist Chris Reason reports: All the hostages now huddled at one end of Lindt Cafe, one is covering the window at that end with an apron.
13:56 'We can see gunman holding shotgun'
Journalist Chris Reason says the gunman can be seen, he is wearing a white shirt, black cap, unshaven, holds possible pump action shotgun.
13:53
Congress, Left create uproar over reported government directive to keep schools open on Christmas Day, forcing adjournment in Lok Sabha.
13:29 Indian may be among Sydney cafe hostages, says Venkaiah
Journalist Chris Reason from 7NewsSydney says: "We can see the faces of hostages - pained, strained, eyes red and raw. One young man with head in hands. Food is being delivered to the hostages. Staff bringing it out from kitchen at back. We've counted around 15 hostages - not 50 - mix of women, men, young, old - but no children."
Venkaiah Naidu says that an Indian IT professional may be among the hostages.
Pic: Staff at the Indian consulate in Sydney being evacuated a few hours ago.
Venkaiah Naidu says that an Indian IT professional may be among the hostages.
Pic: Staff at the Indian consulate in Sydney being evacuated a few hours ago.
13:14 Hostage taker demands phone call with Oz PM, ISIS flag
Police: There is speculation about what he might want but we have to deal with him on the level of police negotiation. The hostage taker has made demands for an ISIS flag and a phone call with Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott.
13:08
Telugu Music composer Chakri dies of a heart attack. He was just 40.
13:06 Profoundly shocking at innocent people should be held hostage: Abbott
Oz PM Tony Abbott tweets: It is profoundly shocking that innocent people should be held hostage.
Pic: The police cordon near the Lindt Cafe in Sydney, under siege for the last eight hours, is reflected in a bystander's dark glasses.
Pic: The police cordon near the Lindt Cafe in Sydney, under siege for the last eight hours, is reflected in a bystander's dark glasses.
13:02 Cameron on Sydney siege: My thoughts are with those caught up in it
UK Prime Minister David Cameron tweets: I was briefed overnight on the siege in Sydney. Deeply concerning and my thoughts are with all those caught up in it.
12:51
Terrorist in Sydney caf seige calls himself "Brother" and wants to speak to Australia PM Tony Abbott.
12:38 Sydney CBD lockdown
In Sydney, Consul General Sunjay Sudhir told PTI that due to security concerns "we locked down our office at 12:00 pm and asked all our officers to go to places of safety".
He said that the Central Business District (CBD) where the cafe is located is the area where many Indian establishments including the SBI, Bank of Baroda and Indian tourism office are located.
"We are in touch with the security agencies and have asked them specifically if any Indians were present inside the cafe...they have not told us about the nationality," Sudhir said.
He said that the Central Business District (CBD) where the cafe is located is the area where many Indian establishments including the SBI, Bank of Baroda and Indian tourism office are located.
"We are in touch with the security agencies and have asked them specifically if any Indians were present inside the cafe...they have not told us about the nationality," Sudhir said.
12:33 Two bombs in cafe, two in Sydney CBD, claims gunman
Gunman at Lindt cafe claims to have planted two bombs in the cafe and two in Sydney CBD. Demands a phone call with Austraila PM Tony Abbott.
12:31
Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott says he has received messages of support from a number of international leaders.
12:26 Three of five hostages who escaped may be Lindt staff
The two women who fled the Syndey cafe, appeared to be aged in their 20s. They ran out of the cafe a few seconds apart and into the arms of police officers. One of the two appeared to collapse as she rounded the corner from Martin Place. Both were wearing brown Lindt aprons.
Earlier, television footage of the men showed two of them running from the front of cafe on Martin Place. A third, dressed in what appeared to be a Lindt uniform, is shown escaping out a side door.
Earlier, television footage of the men showed two of them running from the front of cafe on Martin Place. A third, dressed in what appeared to be a Lindt uniform, is shown escaping out a side door.
12:19 Mum, I'm inside Lindt cafe in Sydney: Hostage sends a text
A mother of a hostage at Sydney's Lindt Cafe received in text from her son who was trapped inside on Monday.
Several people were taken hostage at the caf in the heart of Sydney in south-east Australia at least by one gunman, according to media reports.
"Mum, I am inside the Lindt cafe in Sydney,' an apprentice plumber sent a text message to his mother, identified as Mel, The Daily Telegraph reports.
"My heart stopped, I sent back a message: 'What is going on? Are you okay'."
"I'm okay mum, can't talk," replied the son around 3 pm (Australia time), according to the report.
The woman said that she had not heard from her son after that. Witnesses claimed hearing loud bangs that sounded like gun shots from the cafe. However, the police has said that the hostages were not harmed.
They did not give a confirmation on the number of those taken hostage. Three hostages have managed to escape.
Several people were taken hostage at the caf in the heart of Sydney in south-east Australia at least by one gunman, according to media reports.
"Mum, I am inside the Lindt cafe in Sydney,' an apprentice plumber sent a text message to his mother, identified as Mel, The Daily Telegraph reports.
"My heart stopped, I sent back a message: 'What is going on? Are you okay'."
"I'm okay mum, can't talk," replied the son around 3 pm (Australia time), according to the report.
The woman said that she had not heard from her son after that. Witnesses claimed hearing loud bangs that sounded like gun shots from the cafe. However, the police has said that the hostages were not harmed.
They did not give a confirmation on the number of those taken hostage. Three hostages have managed to escape.
12:15
The moment a Lindt worker escapes the siege.
12:10 Uber offers free rides to make up for its response to Sydneys hostage crisis
When an unidentified men took as many as 40 people hostage in Sydney's financial district this morning, mass evacuations in the area created a huge price spike for Uber cars in the area.
At one point the company was charging at least AU$100, or roughly quadruple the normal price, according to Mashable.
While the apparent price gouging amid a crisis was cringe-worthy, the company wasn't completely at fault'"after all it relies on an automated algorithm to set prices, and demand had spiked. Uber has agreed to cap prices in the US during emergencies, but it has no such arrangement in place in Australia.
Read more
At one point the company was charging at least AU$100, or roughly quadruple the normal price, according to Mashable.
While the apparent price gouging amid a crisis was cringe-worthy, the company wasn't completely at fault'"after all it relies on an automated algorithm to set prices, and demand had spiked. Uber has agreed to cap prices in the US during emergencies, but it has no such arrangement in place in Australia.
Read more
11:43
New South Wales Police Deputy Commissioner Catherine Burn, declining to give details about whether they escaped or were let go.
11:42 Two more hostages flee Sydney cafe
Two more people have fled the Syndey cafe taking the total count of people who escaped the siege to five.
An unknown number of people remain in the cafe, held by at least one armed hostage taker.
An unknown number of people remain in the cafe, held by at least one armed hostage taker.
11:40
MEA tweets: India's High Commission in Canberra too can be contacted for information. Dy High Commissioner Surinder Datta at +61 419687008.
Indian nationals in Sydney cab contact Dr Bahade, Dy Consul General at phone +61 481 453550.
Indian nationals in Sydney cab contact Dr Bahade, Dy Consul General at phone +61 481 453550.
11:37 '25th Dec will be a holiday and celebrated as Christmas Day'
HRD minister Smriti Irani refuses to be a Grinch and says the The Times of India's report is "absolutely baseless and inaccurate. 25th Dec is Christmas and will be celebrated like that and schools will be shut."
Read the TOI report here.
Read the TOI report here.
11:26
@SteveHowe69 18 year old boy went in for a coffee #sydneysiege tells his mum by text I'm ok omg.
11:25
People taking selfies outside the Sydney cafe where the siege has been on for over 7 hours.
It's also an enforced holiday for the Indian consulate in Sydney, which has been shut down for the day. The consulate is just 400 m from the cafe.
It's also an enforced holiday for the Indian consulate in Sydney, which has been shut down for the day. The consulate is just 400 m from the cafe.
11:24 More than one gunman in Sydney cafe, say police
Police says there is a possibility of more than one gunman taking hostages in the Sydney cafe, while they say the number of hostages remain unknown.
11:19 Sydney Opera House cancels tonight's performances
The Sydney Opera House has cancelled tonight's performances. A spokesman said: "In light of the situation in the CBD today, we have decided to cancel tonight's performances at the Opera House. This is to minimise pressure on transport networks and to provide as much notice as possible to staff and patrons."
11:18
The Australian National Imams Council has issued statement condemning the siege: "such actions are denounced in part and in whole in Islam".
11:14 Witnesses report screams from Lindt cafe
The Daily Mail reports that witnesses, including a man who was hanging from a nearby building as he cleaned the windows, have described hearing screams before police arrived at Martin Place in Sydney.
11:07 Police make contact with hostage taker at Sydney cafe, 40 people still inside
Australia has been on high alert after the government raised concerns that citizens who have fought alongside jihadists in Iraq and Syria could return home radicalised and capable of carrying out attacks.
ABP News says there are a total of 40 hostages at the cafe, of which three have been released.
ABP News says there are a total of 40 hostages at the cafe, of which three have been released.
10:59 Police make contact with hostage taker at Sydney cafe
Police negotiators have had contact with a hostage taker in the cafe where an unspecified number of people have been held for hours, said New South Wales Police Deputy Commissioner Catherine Burn.
10:57 Is Opera House 'incident' related to Lindt cafe?
Australian authorities are dealing with an "incident" at Sydney's Opera House, police said Monday, without elaborating on whether it was related to an ongoing siege at a nearby cafe.
"The police are responding to an incident at the Opera House," a New South Wales police spokeswoman told AFP.
Reports said the Opera House had been evacuated.
"The police are responding to an incident at the Opera House," a New South Wales police spokeswoman told AFP.
Reports said the Opera House had been evacuated.
10:51
Just in: Anil Ambani led Reliance Group sells multiplex business to Carnival Cinemas.
10:51 'Hostages have made it out'
Deputy Police Commissioner Catherine Burn confirmed the hostages had made it out. "We do not have any information to suggest anyone has been harmed at this stage," she said. "Police negotiators have had contact and will continue to have contact."
10:42 Nobody harmed inside Sydney cafe yet: Police
New South Wales Deputy Commissioner Catherine Burn says she cannot confirm the number of people still inside the Sydney cafe, but it is not as high as 30, reports The Sydney Morning Herald.
"The information that I have is that nobody has been harmed or injured at the moment," she said. "We clearly are dealing with a situation that is unfolding and it's happening as we speak and the most important thing is the safety of those hostages and I wouldn't want to do anything that may impact on the safety of those hostages."
10:40 Indian cricketers' security in Australia increased
Security around Indian cricketers has been beefed up in Brisbane owing to the hostage crisis in Sydney with the BCCI keeping a close watch on the unfolding events there.
"We are constantly in touch with Cricket Australia top bosses. We are monitoring the situation closely and security of our players is paramount. The players are in Brisbane and everything is normal there," BCCI Secretary Sanjay Patel told PTI.
"However, the security of the Indian team has been beefed up considerably. We have been informed by Cricket Australia that additional police forces have been deployed with the Indian team. We are happy with what CA has arranged," he added.
An armed man today took undisclosed number of people hostage at a popular cafe in Sydney and displayed an Islamic flag with Arabic script in the window, sparking a security alert in Australia.
"We are constantly in touch with Cricket Australia top bosses. We are monitoring the situation closely and security of our players is paramount. The players are in Brisbane and everything is normal there," BCCI Secretary Sanjay Patel told PTI.
"However, the security of the Indian team has been beefed up considerably. We have been informed by Cricket Australia that additional police forces have been deployed with the Indian team. We are happy with what CA has arranged," he added.
An armed man today took undisclosed number of people hostage at a popular cafe in Sydney and displayed an Islamic flag with Arabic script in the window, sparking a security alert in Australia.
10:36 3 hostages have made it out of Sydney cafe: Police
New South Wales Deputy Commissioner Catherine Burn said that three hostages have made it out of the Lindt Cafe at Martin Place. Addressing the media, she said that the police did not have any information that any people inside the cafe had been harmed at this stage. "A peaceful resolution will be what we are working for," she said.
She added that she could not confirm the number of people trapped inside the cafe.
She added that she could not confirm the number of people trapped inside the cafe.
10:32 Sensex plunges 245 pts in early trade, Nifty dips below 8,200
The benchmark Bombay Stock Exchange Sensex tumbled over 245 points and the Nifty went below the 8,200 mark in early trade today on continued selling by funds and retail investors after the October industrial production contracted sharply, amid a weak trend in the Asian region.
Falling for the third straight session, the 30-share barometer plunged by 245.64 points, or 0.89 per cent, to 27,105.04 with IT, consumer durables, realty, capital goods, metal and oil & gas stocks leading the fall.
Auto, healthcare and power stocks also faced selling pressure.
The BSE index had lost 480.42 points in the previous two sessions.
On similar lines, the National Stock Exchange index Nifty dipped below the 8,200-mark by losing 71.60 points, or 0.87 per cent to 8,152.50.
10:27
Just In: The Anil Ambani-led Reliance Group has sold its multiplex business to Carnival Cinemas.
10:26 3 hostages seen running from Sydney cafe: TV reports
Channel 7 reports that hostages are running from the Lindt Cafe in Martin Place, Sydney. However, New South Wales police have not confirmed that any hostages have been released or escaped.
10:24 How a newsroom was evacuated amid Sydney crisis
Australia's Daily Telegraph has bought out a special edition on the the Sydney hostage crisis along with a comment piece: The instant we changed forever.
10:16 Thank you everyone for your thoughts and prayers: Lindt Cafe
Hours after a gunman took several people hostage at Sydney's Lindt Cafe, it today issued a statement on its Facebook page: We would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and kind support over the current situation at the Lindt Chocolate Cafe at Martin Place. We are deeply concerned over this serious incident and our thoughts and prayers are with the staff and customers involved and all their friends and families. The matter is being dealt with by the authorities and we are waiting for any updates from them."
09:53 30 customers, 10 staff trapped in Sydney cafe: Lindt Australia
Lindt Australia executive says there are about 10 staff and up to 30 customers trapped in the cafe. Police declined to comment on the number of hostages involved, reports PTI.
09:48 Sydney hostage crisis: No confirmed if it's terror-related event, say police
Andrew Scipione, commissioner of New South Wales Police said that the police were treating the siege as a hostage situation at the
moment, but were prepared to escalate their response if needed.
"We have not yet confirmed this is a terrorism-related event," he said.
He added that there were hundred of police around the cafe and there will be more officers sent out if needed.
09:38 Indian consulate in Sydney closed down
Major landmarks in Sydney, including Opera house, has been evacuated in wake of the hostage crisis. The Indian consulate too has been closed down as a precautionary measure.
09:35 Tony Abbott convenes National Security Committee
Australia's National Security Committee has met to discuss what Prime Minister Tony Abbott has declared a "deeply concerning incident" in Sydney's Martin Place.
Abbott issued a short statement confirming that the National Security Committee of cabinet had met to discuss the siege. The committee consists of Abbott, Deputy Prime Minster Warren Truss, Foreign Minister Julia Bishop, Attorney-General George Brandis, Treasurer Joe Hockey, Defence Minister David Johnston and Immigration and Border Protection Minister Scott Morrison.
Abbott issued a short statement confirming that the National Security Committee of cabinet had met to discuss the siege. The committee consists of Abbott, Deputy Prime Minster Warren Truss, Foreign Minister Julia Bishop, Attorney-General George Brandis, Treasurer Joe Hockey, Defence Minister David Johnston and Immigration and Border Protection Minister Scott Morrison.
09:28 Flag held by Sydney hostages doesn't belong to Islamic State
Sydney Morning Herald reports: The flag shown being held by hostages against the window of Lindt
Chocolat Cafe is not an Islamic State flag, but is an Islamic flag that
has been co-opted by jihadist groups.
The flag appears to be a Shahada flag, which represents a general expression of faith in Islam, but has been co-opted by various jihadist groups. The Shahada is the testament of Islamic faith, which is one of the five pillars of Islam, the report says.
The translation of the flag is: There is no god but Allah; Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.
The flag appears to be a Shahada flag, which represents a general expression of faith in Islam, but has been co-opted by various jihadist groups. The Shahada is the testament of Islamic faith, which is one of the five pillars of Islam, the report says.
The translation of the flag is: There is no god but Allah; Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.
09:15 Sydney hostage crisis 'inhuman': PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweets on the Sydney hostage crisis: The incident in Sydney is disturbing. Such acts are inhuman & deeply unfortunate. I pray for everyone's safety.
09:03 Motive behind Sydney hostage crisis not known: Aus PM
Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott told reporters that authorities do not yet know the motivation of the person responsible for the ongoing situation in Sydney.
"We don't know whether this is politically motivated, although obviously there are some indications that it could be," he said.
The PM added, "The whole point of politically motivated violence is to scare people out of being themselves. Australia is a peaceful, open and generous society. Nothing should ever change that."
He said more information would be released as it becomes available.
"We don't know whether this is politically motivated, although obviously there are some indications that it could be," he said.
The PM added, "The whole point of politically motivated violence is to scare people out of being themselves. Australia is a peaceful, open and generous society. Nothing should ever change that."
He said more information would be released as it becomes available.
08:59 Hostages held in Sydney cafe siege
At least 50 people have been taken hostage by at least one armed man at a Lindt cafe in the centre of Sydney.
Hundreds of armed police have sealed off the normally busy Martin Place in Sydney's central business district.
At least three people have been seen inside the cafe with their hands up against a window, and holding up a black flag with Arabic writing. Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott has described the incident as "deeply concerning". He said it was not yet clear who was behind the incident but that it could be politically motivated.
Hundreds of armed police have sealed off the normally busy Martin Place in Sydney's central business district.
At least three people have been seen inside the cafe with their hands up against a window, and holding up a black flag with Arabic writing. Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott has described the incident as "deeply concerning". He said it was not yet clear who was behind the incident but that it could be politically motivated.
08:59 One armed hostage taker inside Sydney cafe
A major police operation was under at the Lindt Chocolate Cafe in Sydney.
NSW Police chief Andrew Scipione: We have an armed offender in the premises holding an undisclosed number of hostages."
There has been no contact between the police and the hostage taker.
NSW Police chief Andrew Scipione: We have an armed offender in the premises holding an undisclosed number of hostages."
There has been no contact between the police and the hostage taker.
08:47 Sydney hostage crisis: Several held inside cafe, Islamic flag displayed near window
An Islamic flag has been displayed against a window at the Lindt Chocolate Cafe in Sydney where several people have been taken hostages sparking a security lockdown in an area home to government and corporate headquarters.
Adding to the unfolding drama, the nearby Sydney Opera House was also cleared by police, apparently over a suspicious package. It was not clear if the two incidents were related.
Adding to the unfolding drama, the nearby Sydney Opera House was also cleared by police, apparently over a suspicious package. It was not clear if the two incidents were related.
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